NASSAU COLISEUM
UNIONDALE, NEW YORK
OCTOBER 26, 2019
PRE-SHOW
TENSLEY TAYLOR SINGS
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
Follow Tensley Taylor on Twitter
♫
TRYNA GET DEMONS UP OUTTA ME
TURN TO A BEAST, EAT YOUR ARTERIES
DECEASING OPPONENTS SO PROPERLY
UNLEASHING THE DARK SIDE WHAT GOT TO ME
♫
[“Danger” by Migos begins to play over the loudspeaker and “Dangerous” Zach Bennett emerges to the stage wearing his walkout fight kit with crew members from his camp following behind. Bennett keeps his head down while slowly marches down the aisle.]
PATRICK CARSON
Making his way to the octagon now is one of the several new Heavyweights recently signed. From what we know, Zach Bennett comes with some heavy hands due to his years of training as a boxer. Undefeated in the amateur regional ranks, Zach is looking to make a big splash here on the big stage.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
You could hardly ask for a bigger opponent to try and make that splash either. Going up against the first-ever Heavyweight Champion, Bennett no doubt has a gigantic hurdle to clear in his debut. But if he can pull off the upset? You better believe it'll strap a rocket to his back and soar him through the rankings.
[Bennett finally makes it to cageside where he is checked up on by the fight official. Once he’s been cleared, he walks up the steps and calmly takes his place in his corner, shadowboxing along the way.]
♫
YOUR REIGN ON THE TOP WAS SHORT LIKE LEPRECHAUNS
AS I CRUSH SO-CALLED WILLIES, THUGS, AND RAPPER-DONS
GET IN THAT ASS, QUICK FAST, LIKE RAMADAN
IT’S THAT RAP PHENOMENON DON-DADDA
♫
["Kick in the Door" by Notorious B.I.G. thumps over the loudspeaker and “The Lion” Ferdinand Diao emerges to the stage wearing his gold and white walkout fight kit with crew members from his camp following behind. Diao burrows his head down while slowly stalking down the aisle, never once losing focus.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now making his way to the octagon, Ferdinand Diao! We mentioned he was the first Union Grand Prix Champion, tonight he continues his hunt to get back in the title picture after faltering in the semifinals of the Championship Grand Prix.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Since Ferdinand has been back from his hiatus after losing the Heavyweight Title, he’s been up and down on his performances. He’s lost 2 of his last 3, with his return bout resulting in a loss to Donnie Calabrese, and then getting knocked out of the Grand Prix Tournament to Kennard Rozier. Granted, if you look closer, his losses have only come at the hands of current or former champions, so it’s not to say he’s lost a step. However, I think he’s going to need to rack up a few wins before we can truly consider him a title contender once again.
[Diao finally makes it to cageside where he is checked up on by the fight official. Once cleared, he climbs up the steps and calmly takes his place in his corner, rolling his massive shoulders to keep loose.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York for Boss Fight XIV! 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 0-0. He stands 6’2” and weighing in at 248 pounds. He is from Cleveland, Ohio, he is ”Dangerous” Zach Bennett!
[Zach Bennett looks like he's feeling the pressure a bit as he casually bounces in place to stay loose.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Brawler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 4-4. He stands 6’3” and weighing in at 263 pounds. He is from Dakar, Senegal, fighting out of Team Brutal, he is the former Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Champion, ”The Lion” Ferdinand Diao!
[Ferdinand Diao looks relaxed in his corner as he rolls his shoulders and raises a single fist in the air.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
We are just about ready to get this night officially kicked off, and a quick prediction, I think this one goes to the former champ and I don’t think it’s even close. And a majority of the fans who surveyed our social media poll believe the same, as 76% went in favor of Diao.
PATRICK CARSON
If I were a betting man, I would put my money on Ferdinand Diao today. This is an extremely tough task for the debuting Bennett, but all it takes is one shot and boom! Upset Central! But here we go! The referee for this opening bout is Willie Green. He checks off with each man one last time and calls for the bell!
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ROUND ONE
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[The bell sounds and this fight gets underway. Ferdinand Diao moves backwards and Zach Bennett is asking him if he came today for fighting or running. Bennett looks to have a high cardio that may help him with a great performance. Bennett and Diao circle around a bit before stepping into each other to engage in a wild exchange of punches! Both fighters are connecting with some big shots and this could be ending soon if either lands that lucky punch.]
PATRICK CARSON
No time to waste here as these two behemoths trade blows!
[Both fighters end up backing off, seemingly to catch their breath. After a brief pause, the two rush back in to trade punches. Both are landing shots but now it's without as much steam behind them. Bennett steps back and has a small cut on his lip. Bennett tries a nice one-two combination but it gets blocked. Diao looks to counter now. He feints and moves forward to hit with a hook, but Bennett reads it well and moves aside to avoid any damage.]
[Bennett goes with a looping right hand while Diao jumps back and jabs. Diao seems staggered and Zach Bennett runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses! Bennett attempts to cut Diao off with some punches and Diao reels back from the strikes. Diao fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside to get some distance. Diao now moves forward looking for some action and he surprises Bennett with double overhooks!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Smart move for Ferdinand to lock in a clinch and slow down the tempo. Bennett was teeing off on him and it wasn't looking good for the former Champ.
[Diao attempts a sweep single but Zach Bennett was ready and shrugs off the takedown attempt. Diao fakes a move inside the clinch and launches a nice uppercut that lands clean on Bennett's chin.]
PATRICK CARSON
Ferdinand Diao's mind is definitely in the fight, Bennett just got nailed! Ferdinand Diao saw an opening and delivered a big right hand.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Bennett is definitely going to have a headache after that brutal hit.
[Diao pushes Zach Bennett and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath now. Bennett and Diao once again close the distance and engage in a wild exchange of punches! Diao is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows. Bennett goes with a looping right hand while Diao jumps back and jabs. Bennett seems staggered now and Diao runs in to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses.]
PATRICK CARSON
Great exchange! Zach Bennett could be hurt here!
[Bennett launches a sloppy low kick and Diao is smart enough to block it. Diao tries to take advantage now and launches a superb haymaker! That shot connects on Bennett's chin like a wrecking ball!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Boom! That shot put Bennett into another dimension!
[Bennett in a daze, rushes in and the two once again engage in a wild exchange of punches! Diao is getting the best of the exchange as he picks apart his opponent. Bennett tries to clinch in order to control the fight but Diao moves back and circles away. The two trade punches but Diao is the only one connecting. Diao launches a couples of jabs and then a big hook! Bennett blocks the jabs but the last punch hits hard on his cheek! Bennett stumbles and falls to the mat!]
PATRICK CARSON
Ferdinand Diao turns out the lights for Zach Bennett! What an astonishing KO by Diao!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
A great performance by Diao to get back in the win column. Zach Bennett got thrown into the fire for his debut, but the guy held his own and showed some good things, but Diao just has some unbelievable power in those hands.
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Diao is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Bennett for a while before helping him to his feet. After doctors and cut men finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, referee Willie Green has called for a stop in this fight at three minutes forty-seven seconds in the very first round, for your winner by knockout, “The Lion” Ferdinand Diao!
[The crowd cheers once again as Diao has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
Winner: Ferdinand Diao by KO (Punch) at 3:47 Round 1
Statistics: Ferdinand Diao
Punches 24/35 (69%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/1 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Zach Bennett
Punches 18/37 (49%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/1 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
♫
"BRIGHT BURNING SHOUT" BY TAKANORI NISHIKAWA
BEGINS TO PLAY
♫
[As the music begins to pick up in tempo, Lea Sun walks out to the main stage, with not much emotion showing. Her corner crew follows behind giving off a similar aura, as the entire group begins to make their way down to the octagon.]
PATRICK CARSON
Lea Sun is making her way to the octagon right now, and she’s looking to rebound from a tough debut loss at UGP 13. Sun showed some good things in her fight against August Pope, so I’m curious to see how she has improved since then.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
She showed she has the ability to do some good things when the fight in standing up, but her weakness is on the ground. Her opponent tonight excels on the ground, so if she can keep the fight upright, she definitely has a good chance to go home with her first victory.
[Once Sun has made it to cageside, she strips down to her fight gear and has the fight official inspect her. Once she has been cleared, she gives a quick hug to every member of her corner before racing up the steps. Once she steps inside the octagon, she runs a few laps around before stationing in her corner and awaiting her opponent.]
♫
SIEMPRE DIGO LO QUE PIENSO
SIEMPRE DIGO LO QUE PIENSO
SIEMPRE DIGO LO QUE PIENSO
SIEMPRE DIGO LO QUE PIENSO
SIEMPRE DIGO LO QUE PIENSO
♫
[Xabier Belazco comes out to the main stage and stops at the entrance. He closes his eyes and takes in the cheers of the audience and the feel of the moment. He opens his eyes to an intense stare at the cage, never letting his gaze stray as he walks down.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now “The Black Knight” is in the building and the crowd is going wild for this guy! He’s a tremendous competitor who has a very old school mentality to this sport. Just days ago, he became a father so you know he’s got more to fight for than just pride here tonight.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
You mention his mentality about this sport, this guy is as respected throughout the industry as they come. Never one to really talk badly about his opponents, he keeps to himself and is an outlier to his rather boisterous camp, the Real Killas. And you’re absolutely right, he’s fighting for more than just pride or chance to climb the ranks, he’s fighting for a new family addition. All of us here at Union Grand Prix want to congratulate Xabier and Haley on the new bundle of joy and I’m volunteering Patrick as a babysitter whenever needed!
[Belazco reaches cageside and begins to disrobe to get inspected by the fight official. Once he’s been cleared, he bows down before entering the cage, and places a fist on the mat before entering.]
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 Wushu Practioner holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-1. She stands 5’4” and weighing in at 155 pounds. She is from Dalian, China, she is “The Lonely Warrior” Lea Sun!!
[Lea Sun glares at her opponent from the opposite corner as she bounces in place.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 5-6. He stands 5’7” and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from San Diego, California, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, he is “The Black Knight” Xabier Belazco!
[Belazco steps out towards the center of the cage and this place seems about to burst! He’s sure that the fans are behind him tonight.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
We are all set for this Lightweight bout, and I have to say, I give the edge to Xabier Belazco if for nothing else than the overall experience level he brings to the table. And if you look at our social media poll, 77% of the fans favor him as well.
PATRICK CARSON
Belazco is the fighter that will win today if we pay attention to the betting lines. You take one moment to listen to this crowd, and the fans in Long Island are Belazco believers. This could play a factor against Sun if she cannot tune out the crowd noise and allow it to get to her. But now it’s time to find out who will be ending this fight with their hand raised in the air. The referee of the bout is Herschel Warden. He checks off with each fighter and calls for the bell. And here we go!
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ROUND ONE
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[The bell announces the first round! Lea Sun steps forward and Xabier Belazco catches her with an uppercut to the face! Sun eats the punch but moves aside and launches a furious low kick that connects to Belazco's thigh. Sun looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Xabier Belazco's punches. Belazco is on the receiving end of a great combo by Sun. Belazco goes with a looping right hand while Sun jumps back and jabs. Sun seems staggered and Belazco runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses!]
PATRICK CARSON
Fast paced action to start things off here. Doesn’t look like Belazco is afraid to trade with Sun.
[A right hand from Lea Sun surprises Belazco. Sun follows up with a furious low kick but Xabier is able to block it. Belazco looks to counter now. Belazco throws an uppercut that lands clean. A counter right hand from Lea Sun makes Belazco stumble back! Belazco launches a body shot but Sun dodges and catches him with a hard cross. Another quick right hand from Lea Sun surprises Belazco. Sun fakes a move and launches a liver kick but Belazco blocks it and pushes his opponent back. Belazco moves in for a takedown but Lea Sun delivers a knee that wrecks him!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Boom! Big knee from Lea Sun and it looks like Belazco is in trouble!
[Sun and Belazco engage in a wild exchange of punches. Belazco is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows. There is a small cut on Sun's lips. A bunch of leg kicks from Lea Sun connects and are bothering her opponent, but doesn’t look too serious. Sun follows up with a nice right hand but Belazco reads it well. Every time Xabier Belazco attempts to get inside, Sun fires a low kick and one connects to hyper-extend Belazco’s left knee. Xabier feints a move and quickly changes levels to hit a single leg takedown. Belazco lands in side mount over Sun. He shifts to north-south position and tries to finish with a submission! Sun pushes Belazco forward and breaks the lock!]
[Lea Sun is in closed guard now and Belazco tries to roll on the ground! Nice reversal! He is now in full mount! Sun tries to roll to her side and trap Belazco in her guard but Xabier keeps good control and remains in full mount. Belazco catches Sun's right arm and tries a kimura but Sun holds her own arm and struggles until she gets free.]
PATRICK CARSON
Smart move for Xabier to take this fight to the mat. It looks like Lea is having trouble keeping herself out of some dangerous spots.
[Sun tries to escape but Belazco just pushes her back down to the mat. Sun tries to roll to her side and trap Xabier in her guard and she manages to move to half guard. Sun launches a few weak punches but Belazco blocks them effectively. Both fighters look to be stalling now, and after a few moments, Herschel Warden stands the fighters up due to a lack of activity. Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing.]
[Sun decides to launch some tentative punches and she takes the best of a brief punching exchange. A left hook from Sun grazes the chin of Belazco. Sun decides to launch some tentative punches. Belazco launches a couple of jabs that are answered by Sun with a stiff cross! Solid exchange! Sun fires off a low kick to maintain some distance. Sun now looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Belazco's punches. Sun is on the receiving end of a great combo by Belazco. The referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect out there. Pretty close back and forth if you ask me, but I think I give the slight edge to Sun.
PATRICK CARSON
She stayed aggressive standing up, but like we predicted, she didn’t look too comfortable on the ground. I’m sure Belazco will look to try to bring this fight to the mat and really open up his game plan.
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ROUND TWO
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[The second round begins and Lea Sun opens up with a solid front kick. Belazco just barely dodges it and counters with a crushing right hook that splits Sun’s chin! Sun fires back with some solid jabs, but Belazco is able to defend them off. Xabier retaliates with a solid combo of his own and it lights up Sun and now she has a cut on the bridge of her nose!]
PATRICK CARSON
I gotta tell ya, I love how Belazco has the guts to stand up and trade with Sun. He does quite well in short bursts, something he should keep in mind.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Hit the quick combo and break off. Don’t stick around too long for Sun to counter. Do that enough to setup some takedowns and take the fight to his realm.
[Belazco finishes off another solid combo and as if on cue, he changes levels and hits another textbook single leg takedown. Belazco is in side mount and Sun doesn't stop bleeding from multiple areas of her face. Lea Sun tries to trap Belazco in her guard but Belazco keeps control and remains in side mount. Lea Sun continues to bleed from her cuts and it could be affecting her vision. Lea makes several attempts to trap Xabier in her guard but gets denied every time. Xabier Belazco now looks to mount Lea Sun. He slides his knee across and gets to full mount. Belazco throws the leg over and rolls it over into an armbar but Sun breaks the lock, showing some good ground skills. Belazco tries to better his position on the ground. He gets in great position and starts delivering some brutal ground and pound! Belazco suddenly holds Sun's arm and tries an armbar! Sun fights off to break the lock and now she is in a closed guard over Belazco!]
PATRICK CARSON
Belazco tried to end this with the armbar but it proved to be costly as Sun manages to slip free and get top position.
[You can see Sun's blood making stains all over the mat. Deep breaths from Xabier Belazco who tries a hammer punch to Sun's ribs. That connects clean and she moves on the ground in order to protect herself. Sun is trying to better her position on the ground and launches a couple of elbows against Belazco's ribs. Belazco blocks them and tries to reverse the situation. Sun misses a step and Belazco sees an opportunity to counter! Belazco rolls on the ground! Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Lea Sun!]
[Lea Sun tries to roll to her side and trap Xabier Belazco in her guard. She gets her hip out and moves to full guard. Belazco is now in open guard over Sun. Deep breaths from Lea Sun who tries a hammer punch to Belazco's ribs. Belazco blocks those punches and tries to pass to half guard. Sun can't stop him and Belazco looks to work from half guard now. Herschel Warden has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.]
PATRICK CARSON
I’m not sure I agree with the ref to stand the fighters up. Belazco was working but didn’t get the chance to progress it.
[Sun steps backwards and lowers her arms while breathing heavily. She seems tired. A body kick by Lea Sun gets blocked as Xabier presses forward. Sun tries a middle kick now but Belazco blocks it and circles away. Sun continues to bleed and looks like she could be shooting in the dark as she launches a wild head kick that Belazco easily side steps.]
PATRICK CARSON
Lea Sun is taking out her mouthpiece to breathe, she looks totally gassed out there right now.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
That ground game will take a lot out of you if you do not properly conserve and use your energy.
[Some nice shots from Lea Sun miss their mark. Sun and Belazco engage in a wild exchange of punches now. Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch! Lea steps back to avoid any serious damage. She is taking out her mouthpiece again to breathe and she is a bloody mess right now! Sun launches a low kick that gets blocked quickly. Belazco counters with a bone shattering straight right hand and Lea Sun is in trouble! She fires off a lightning fast low kick but Belazco blocks that kick with his leg. The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage now. The two exchange wildly and Belazco is connecting with a few punches. A bunch of leg kicks now from Xabier Belazco are bothering his opponent and he’s got her guessing. Sun and Belazco engage in another wild exchange of punches and Belazco again is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows. The referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.]
PATRICK CARSON
No question that round goes to The Black Knight. Lea Sun looked completely outclassed in that round in every phase of the fight.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Belazco wore her down on the ground and you could see she is completely exhausted out there. This is Belazco’s time to put this one away.
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ROUND THREE
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[Both fighters circle around the center of the cage as the final round begins. Lea Sun is taking out her mouthpiece to breathe while her cuts continue to bleed out. An inside leg kick from Sun goes awry. Belazco is now measuring Sun with his jab. Good accuracy on his part. Belazco leads with a big punch, Sun evades but whiffs with a counter. Sun decides to launch some tentative punches now. Belazco counters with a couple of jabs that are answered by Sun with a stiff cross! Solid exchange here!]
[The two are trading punches and both landing but without much steam. Both fighters circle back around to the center of the cage. Good leg kicks from Lea Sun connect and Belazco winces a bit. Sun looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Belazco's punches. Sun is on the receiving end of a great combo by Belazco. Sun launches a furious low kick but Belazco blocks it. Belazco goes to the body with a couple of big hooks to the ribs. Sun fires off a low kick to maintain some distance and regroup.]
PATRICK CARSON
I don’t know how much longer Lea Sun can last out there. Even when she connects it doesn’t seem to do much damage, and Belazco has completely taken over the standup game.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Give her credit, she is a bloody mess out there and hasn’t once shown the desire to quit. The fight is still up for grabs at this point.
[A solid kick to the leg from Lea Sun and once again Belazco checks it. Belazco counters by walking down his opponent and he just won't stop raining down heavy punches! Sun may be in trouble! Sun pushes Belazco and moves away from him. She seems to be recovering her breath and her wits. The fighters size each other up back in the center of the cage. Belazco launches a stiff jab! That barely hits Sun's face but it seems like one finger has poked her eye! Herschel Warden saw it! Warden stops the fight to give Sun time to recover and gives Belazco a warning. After a brief pause, Sun seems to be ready to fight again. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.]
PATRICK CARSON
In no way does anyone in the building believe that was intentional, but Belazco has got to be careful. This is still a close fight on the cards I’m sure.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I got it 1-1 right now. He looks like he’s in the driver’s seat but he cannot afford any costly penalties right now.
[Sun looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Xabier Belazco's punches. Belazco is on the receiving end of a great combo by Sun. Solid shot from Lea Sun to the body. Belazco didn't like that. Belazco charges at Sun throwing flurries left and right! Not many punches are hitting, but the ones that land are huge shots! Sun is rocked! Sun backpedals away and takes a deep breath. Belazco and Sun engage in a wild exchange of punches! Belazco is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows. Incredible haymaker from Xabier Belazco! You can see Lea Sun's head being snapped backwards! A quick counter hook by Lea Sun glances off Belazco's arms. Sun gets sloppy and Belazco tries to take advantage. He throws a wicked punch and rocks Sun! Herschel Warden rushes in to separate the fighters as the final buzzer sounds. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.]
PATRICK CARSON
A helluva fight by both of these competitors! However, I don;t think anyone will argue that Belazco takes this one.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I agree Patrick. Sun started off strong early in the first round, but Belazco kept pressuring her in the second and third to where she simply had nothing left out there. The fact that she lasted all three rounds is a testament to her will.
[Doctors tend to both fighters for a little while as the crowd slowly starts to calm down. After they finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, after three rounds, we go to the judges’ scorecards. All three judges score is 29-28, for your winner by unanimous decision, “The Black Knight” Xabier Belazco!
[The crowd cheers once again as Belazco has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
JUDGE MIRANDA FRANCO
Xabier Belazco 9 10 10: 29
Lea Sun 10 9 9: 28
JUDGE MAX CARVER
Xabier Belazco 9 10 10: 29
Lea Sun 10 9 9: 28
JUDGE OZZIE SEBASTIAN
Xabier Belazco 9 10 10: 29
Lea Sun 10 9 9: 28
Winner: Xabier Belazco by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Xabier Belazco
Punches 56/73 (77%)
Kicks 3/3 (100%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 2/2 (100%)
Submissions 4/4 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 217 s
Statistics: Lea Sun
Punches 24/67 (36%)
Kicks 10/25 (40%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/6 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 217 s
[The camera cuts to a recording from earlier in the day where Savannah Skye standing by with middleweight fighter “Ripcord” Travis Decker.]
SAVANNAH SKYE
Ladies and gentlemen I introduce my guest at this time, Travis Decker. Thank you once again for making the time.
[Travis smiles and gives her a polite nod.]
TRAVIS DECKER
My pleasure as always, Savannah.
SAVANNAH SKYE
This week at Boss Fight XIV you’re taking on relative newcomer Jethro Benson. Since your loss to Zion Momo’a in the Middleweight Championship Tournament, there are some people saying your opponents have been of a… lower calibre. That perhaps you are being given easy fights on purpose to give yourself a positive record. What are your thoughts on that?
[Travis raises an eyebrow slightly, giving a frustrated sigh.]
TRAVIS DECKER
My thoughts are that people will say anything just so they can make noise. I have no connections to management, no stakes in the company besides my body and my soul. And honestly to call any of these men “lower calibre” is a disservice to the other men that fight their hearts out in that cage. Even Agustin Gates, humanoid trash he is, has shown elsewhere he is at least a semi-competent fighter. The fact is that if I wasn’t at my best, I wouldn’t have left with the victory in my last two fights, and I won’t leave with the victory against Jethro. It doesn’t matter where on the card I am, of who my opponent is, every time I get to step into that ring is an honour, an honour I intend to uphold. My goal is to be the champion, to be at the top of the division, and eventually that would require me to beat all other fighters. The order doesn’t matter to me.
SAVANNAH SKYE
Speaking of other fighters, if you do manage to get past Jethro this weekend, are there any fighters you’ve got your eye on to fight in the cage?
TRAVIS DECKER
Well I think the response of “everyone” I’ve already given, but to be honest, the top of my list is Robert Guilliman. However, it is not the fact that he’s the current champion that's why I want to fight him. Robert and I have always had a mutual respect, even when I first started in Union GP. It is a fight we have both spoken about, a fight we both want, to showcase what we both can truly do. Since joining the Real Killas, my opinion on this has only solidified. I had a chance in the tournament to make that fight a reality, but it was stolen from me. Ripped away by forces outside of my control. And to that end, the other person is Zion Momo’a. While I have moved passed what happened, I have not forgotten it. It's a chip on my shoulder that will not go away, and the only way to get rid of it is to face him again. If he beats me, I can rest easy knowing that he was the better man. If not, well then not only can I put that to bed, but move on up the division towards my ultimate goal.
[Savannah nods as she smiles.]
SAVANNAH SKYE
Well I wish you the best of luck, Travis. Thank you for your time.
[With that the camera cuts away.]
♫
FRIDAY NIGHT AND I NEED A FIGHT
MY MOTORCYCLE AND A SWITCHBLADE KNIFE
HANDFUL OF GREASE IN MY HAIR FEELS RIGHT
BUT WHAT I NEED TO GET ME TIGHT ARE THOSE
♫
[“Girls Girls Girls” by Motley Crue blares over the loudspeaker and Jethro Benson emerges to the stage wearing his black and white walkout fight kit with his crew following behind. Benson has a stern, almost blank expression as he appears to be laser-focused on the octagon ahead of him.]
PATRICK CARSON
The Detroit native Jethro Benson is heading toward the octagon now, and he’s another guy looking for his first victory after suffering a debut loss. We really don;t know much about him still, because he got starched in just over a minute against Brendan McCarthy.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
It was a tough debut for Benson, so you have to believe he’s prepared himself better for tonight. That’s about all I can say for the guy at this point.
[Benson makes it to cageside where he is checked by the fight official. Once he's cleared, he races up the steps and jogs around the cage a couple times before staying put in his corner.]
♫
I CAN FEEL IT COMING IN THE AIR TONIGHT, OH LORD
AND I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS MOMENT FOR ALL MY LIFE, OH LORD
CAN YOU FEEL IT COMING IN THE AIR TONIGHT, OH LORD, OH LORD
♫
[“In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins slowly builds over the loudspeaker and soon Travis Decker emerges to the stage wearing his black and red walkout fight kit with corner crew members following behind. Decker looks focused, but also pays respects the crowd as he heads down to the cage.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now the Real Killa Middleweight Travis Decker has been on a surge as of late. After that very controversial split decision loss in his hometown Chicago against Zion Momo’a, Decker has been finding his footing better and better with each fight since. Tonight he has another chance to really open up and see how much he has improved.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Decker, as we all know, had a rough start to his Union GP tenure, but not without either a controversial judges call, or a loss against a fighter linked to the highly speculated PED scandal. Since that loss against Momo’a at UGP 13, we’ve seen a revitalized fighter, perhaps due to the fact he signed on with the Real Killas training camp. I’m excited to see what he brings tonight as he’s currently on a two-fight win streak and looking to make it three.
[Once he makes it to cageside, Decker gets checked out by the fight official to ensure he’s fit to fight. Once he’s been cleared, he gives a quick fist bump to each of his corner mates and makes his way up the steps and stomps into the cage, giving out a loud battle cry before taking his corner.]
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 Boxer with a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-1. He stands at 5'10" and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Detroit, Michigan, fighting out of The Sym Gym, he is “The Bruiser” Jethro Benson!
[Jethro Benson looks like he's feeling the pressure a bit as he merely gives a slight nod towards the cameras.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer with a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-3. He stands at 6’2” and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Chicago, Illinois, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, he is “Ripcord” Travis Decker!
[Travis Decker is calm in his corner. He bounces in place to stay loose and raises a fist in the air to acknowledge the crowd.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
We’re ready to roll for this lone Middleweight bout for the night. Take a quick look at the social media polls, and it’s a resounding 100% of the votes going to Decker for tonight.
PATRICK CARSON
I don’t think I’d be telling any lies to say that Benson is not preferred by the MMA media to win tonight, and the fans certainly agree. He’s gonna have to do his best to score a win tonight. The referee of the bout is Dusty Whittaker. He checks off with each man one last time and now calls for the bell. And this fight is underway!
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The bell announces the first round! Benson launches a flurry of punches but Decker slips out of danger. Benson continues his jabs at Decker to no visible effect. Benson launches a big straight left hand, but Decker ducks under it. Benson changes levels and goes for a takedown, but Decker reads it perfectly and catches him with a devastating knee to the head!]
[In a desperation move, Benson throws a hard right hand but hits nothing but air. Some more nice shots from Jethro Benson miss their mark. Decker is trying to counter now! Travis Decker moves forward and launches a high kick! That head kick lands and Benson has got a cut on his left cheek! Benson counters with a brilliant combination but Decker is showing some excellent dodging skills avoiding the shots.]
PATRICK CARSON
Travis Decker so far is picking a part Jethro Benson. Keeping clear of any damage and hitting some perfectly timed shots.
[Travis Decker fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. The two step in and exchange wildly and Decker is connecting with a few punches. Benson goes with a looping right hand while Decker jumps back and jabs. Benson seems staggered and Decker runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses. A punch from Jethro Benson gets blocked by Decker. Decker sees an opening and shoots a single leg takedown and hits it!]
[Travis Decker is in side mount. Benson attempts to trap Decker in his guard but Travis keeps control and remains in side mount. Travis Decker throws a flurry of punches at Benson and a lot of them are hitting Benson right in the face, splitting his right cheek now. Benson attempts to trap Travis Decker in his guard again but Decker keeps control and remains in side mount. Benson takes this opportunity to rest. Dusty Whittaker has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters. Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing.]
[Benson steps away from Travis Decker. He seems to be cooling down the fight a bit. Some counter punches against Travis Decker almost hit him as he moves away. Benson fails here and it's time for Travis Decker to fight back! Benson paws at Decker and Decker answers with solid punches! Decker follows with a kick, but Benson checks it and keeps distance. Benson tries to cut off Decker with punches but Decker avoids getting cornered. Decker throws a powerful straight left and rocks Benson! He is definitely going to have a headache after that blow!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Travis Decker is imposing his will early in this fight!
[Jethro Benson fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut but Decker blocks it and made it look easy. A combination from Jethro Benson hits air as Decker shows some great dodging skills. Decker fakes a punch and launches himself over Benson! Nice move by Decker who clinches and pushes Benson against the cage. Benson doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Decker and moves away. Nice move from Benson who put some distance between them.]
[Some nice punches thrown from Jethro Benson… even nicer blocks from Decker. Decker ducks under a straight right hand from Jethro Benson and looks to counter. Decker launches a solid middle kick that wrenches Benson! Benson and Decker engage in a wild exchange of punches and Travis Decker is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows. Benson throws a bone shattering straight right hand, but Decker ducks under and throws a high kick! Benson was covering for a middle kick but that shot almost knocked off his head!]
[Benson stumbles away from Decker. He seems to be cooling down the fight a bit. Decker looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Benson's punches. Benson is on the receiving end of a great combo by Decker. The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.]
PATRICK CARSON
This round is clearly for Travis Decker. Jethro Benson looked aimless out there.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I like his aggression, but if they aren’t landing, you’re just burning energy. He needs to dial it back some and pick his shots.
=========================================
ROUND TWO
=========================================
[The second round begins and some counter punches against Travis Decker almost hit him as he moves away. Decker counters with a beautiful combination that forces Benson to try and defend better. Solid jabs from Jethro Benson gets blocked. Bone shattering straight right hand from Jethro Benson that Decker ducks under. Benson gets sloppy and Decker tries to take advantage. High kick from Travis Decker! Benson seems to be done!]
PATRICK CARSON
Jethro Benson eats another brutal head kick! I don’t think he’s gonna last much longer!
[Jethro Benson fires an unorthodox punch to Decker's torso that goes wide. The two step into each other and engage in a wild exchange of punches! Decker is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows. Benson launches a stiff jab that Decker ducks and counters with another incredible high kick! Benson is worried! Benson throws a wild punch that Decker avoids and he shoots in for a double leg takedown. Benson didn;t see it coming, but manages to pull Decker into his guard.]
[Decker is in closed guard over Benson. He looks to posture up and open Benson's guard. Decker struggles but finally forces Benson to open his guard. Benson tries to close his guard but Decker doesn’t allow it. Benson tries to move on the ground, but Decker catches a leg and locks in a tight heel hook! Benson is in deep and wastes little time and taps!]
PATRICK CARSON
Travis Decker finishes this one off with a masterful heel hook and completely outclassed Jethro Benson in the process. What a great performance by Decker!
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Decker is rushed by his corner crew. Doctors tend to Benson for a while before helping him to his feet. After the medical staff finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, referee Dusty Whittaker has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes ten seconds in the second round, for your winner by submission, “Ripcord” Travis Decker!
[The crowd cheers once again as Decker has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
Winner: Travis Decker by Submission (Leglock) at 2:10 Round 2
Statistics: Travis Decker
Punches 32/44 (73%)
Kicks 6/6 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 4/5 (80%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 91 s
Statistics: Jethro Benson
Punches 0/61 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 91 s
♫
I'M A SAILOR PEG
AND I'VE LOST MY LEG
CLIMBING UP THE TOP SAILS
I'VE LOST MY LEG!
♫
[“I’m Shipping Up to Boston” by The Dropkick Murphys blares over the loudspeaker and Arnie Dawe races on to the stage wearing his black and white walkout fight kit with his crew following behind. Arnie looks upbeat and confident as he makes his way down to the octagon.]
PATRICK CARSON
Heading out now is another guy in search of his first win, Arnie Dawe. He’s currently 0-2 against Megan Reed and Darren Thatcher, but perhaps third time’s a charm?
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
It’s a possibility. It’s unlikely, but it could happen. Look, Dawe has a lot of growth to do, as he’s a very raw talent.
[Dawe finally makes it to cageside, where he strips down to his trunks and has the fight official look him over, to ensure he’s fit to fight. Once he’s been cleared, he gives a quick fist bump to his corner crew and races up the steps. Once he steps inside the cage, he jogs a few laps around before finally settling into his corner.]
♫
I’LL TAKE YOU TO THE CANDY SHOP
I’LL LET YOU LICK THE LOLLIPOP
GO ‘HEAD GIRL DON’T YOU STOP
KEEP GOING ‘TIL YOU HIT THE SPOT, WHOA
♫
["Candy Shop" by The Baseballs plays over the loudspeaker and Saffron Harris emerges to the stage wearing her purple and white walkout fight kit with crew members from her camp following behind. Harris looks calm and focused, almost cracking a slight grin as she heads down to the cage.]
PATRICK CARSON
Saffron Harris is making her way to the octagon right now and she’s coming in tonight on a very tough Grand Prix semifinals loss to Dallas Meechan. She’s been up and down in the Win/Loss columns throughout her Union GP tenure, but every time she’s out there, she shows a lot of improvement, and you feel like she’s so close to breaking into that next level.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
She’s no doubt a fan favorite among the hardcore and casual fans of MMA, so to see her struggles is always hard to watch. But one thing you can say, yeah she improves with each fight, but her heart and determination is among the best in the business which hasn’t declined in the tough times. She’s a trooper and I feel like she rebounds tonight.
[Harris makes it to cageside where she is checked up on by the fight official. Once cleared, she climbs up the steps and jogs her way over to her corner.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer with a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-2. He stands at 5’8” and weighing in at 135 pounds. He is from Boston, Massachusetts, fighting out of The Sym Gym, he is "Glass Jaw” Arnie Dawe!
[Arnie Dawe glares at his opponent from the opposite corner. He looks focused and ready to fight.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler with a professional mixed martial arts record of 4-5. She stands 5’5” and weighing in at 130 pounds. She is from Fayetteville, Arkansas, fighting out of Throne MMA Las Vegas, she is Saffron Harris!
[Saffron is beating herself up in the corner before the fight begins, smacking herself in the face, body and legs to get ready for his fight.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
And just like our last fight, we got absolutely no love to the Sym Gym fighters. 100% of the fans that took our social media poll sides with Saffron Harris tonight.
PATRICK CARSON
Call it what you want, but that gym hasn’t exactly set the world on fire. The referee of the bout is Dusty Whittaker. He checks off with each fighter one last time and calls for the bell! And here we go!
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The bell sounds and the fight gets underway. Arnie Dawe wants to close the range and tries to grapple. Nice move. He shoves himself over his opponent and secures a single collar tie. Saffron Harris doesn't want to clinch as she ducks under Dawe and tries to move away. Nice move from Harris who puts some distance between them. Harris decides to launch some tentative punches to find her range. Dawe launches a couple of jabs that are quickly answered by Harris with a stiff cross! Solid exchange here! Dawe goes with a looping right hand while Harris jumps back and jabs. Dawe seems staggered now and Saffron runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses!]
[Dawe leans forwards and tries to grapple with Harris again but Saffron ducks under to maintain some distance. A punch from Dawe grazes Harris' right cheek. The two step into each other and exchange wildly and Harris is connecting with a few punches. Harris grabs her opponent by the waist and takes the fight to the ground with a superb waistlock double leg.]
PATRICK CARSON
Saffron Harris opens this one up with some solid striking before taking this one to the mat.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
It’s what she’s known for, and I love that takedown!
[Harris is in open guard over Dawe. She tries to move to full mount and succeeds. Harris tries to keep her position while looking for some ground and pound. She controls the situation despite Dawe’s efforts to escape from the full mount. Dawe tries to roll on the ground but Harris knows how to keep her advantage on the ground. Dawe misses a step and Saffron Harris sees an opportunity to counter him! Harris wraps her legs around Dawe’s arm and goes for an armbar! That textbook armbar from Saffron Harris appears to be unbreakable and Arnie Dawe taps out due to the excruciating pain!]
PATRICK CARSON
Boom! Just like that, Saffron Harris takes the win here tonight.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Her game plan was so methodical tonight. She picked her parts and capitalized to the fullest and took this one with a stellar armbar.
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Saffron Harris is swarmed by her corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Dawe for a while before helping him to his feet. After doctors and cut men finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, referee Dusty Whittaker has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes two seconds in the very first round, for your winner by submission, Saffron Harris!
[The crowd cheers once again as Harris has her hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
Winner: Saffron Harris by Submission (Armbar) at 2:02 Round 1
Statistics: Saffron Harris
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 40 s
Statistics: Arnie Dawe
Punches 2/6 (33%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/1 (0%)
Time on the ground 40 s
♫
BRAZIL LA LA LA LA
BEGINS TO PLAY
♫
[As the upbeat music begins to play over the PA System, Bellamy DeSilva emerges to the main stage wearing his walkout fight with his 9th World crew following behind. DeSilva looks to be amped up as he bounces on the balls of his feet down the aisle to the beat of the music.]
PATRICK CARSON
Heading to the octagon now is the 9th World prospect Bellamy DeSilva. The Pride of Brazil comes in tonight winning his debut fight against Gracyn Knight at Boss Fight XIII and looks to continue that trend.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
From what we saw in his debut fight, DeSilva has some excellent cardio which allows him to really keep a high tempo for an extended period of time. He’s a guy that’s got good hands and a solid ground base where he feels comfortable in any phase of the fight.
[DeSilva makes it to cageside where he strips down and gets inspected by the fight official. Once he’s been cleared to fight, he turns to give a quick fist bump to his corner crew before racing up the steps. Bellamy heads straight to his corner, where begins to shadow box and stretch out.]
♫
YOUNG THUGS IN THIS MOTHERFUCKER
DON'T BREAK UP THE FIGHT, LET 'EM RUMBLE
DON'T MAKE ENEMIES WITH ME
I TRY TO TELL THESE MOTHERFUCKERS THEY AIN'T SEE
DON'T MAKE ENEMIES WITH ME
♫
["Don't Make Enemies with Me" by Tupac ft. Outlawz bumps over the loudspeaker and Lexi Sheckler emerges to the main stage wearing her charcoal and lime green walkout fight kit with crew members from her MTK Global camp following behind. Sheckler can visibly be seen barking out insults to fans lined along the aisle as she never breaks her pace heading toward the octagon.]
PATRICK CARSON
Lexi Sheckler makes her way to the octagon, and she’s coming in looking to rebound after a tough loss to the current Lightweight Champion. Some have criticized that she underestimated Donovan in their fight, and it resulted in a lopsided TKO defeat for Sheckler.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
It was definitely a result we did not expect to see, considering how Donovan’s last fight with a fighter with a much longer reach gave him problems. I’m curious to see how this one goes for both fighters here. It’s a bit of a clash of styles, and these types of match-ups are very unpredictable.
[Sheckler makes it to cageside where she is checked by the fight official. Once she's cleared, she races up the steps and jogs around the cage a couple times before staying put in her corner.]
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, an Unorthodox Fighter holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 1-0. He stands 5’11” and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, fighting out of the 9th World Performance Institute, he is “The Pride of Brazil” Bellamy DeSilva!
[People are cheering for this fighter. You can hear Bellamy DeSilva chants all around the place! DeSilva glares intently at his opponent from the opposite corner.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 1-1. She stands 5’11” and weighing in at 147 pounds. She is from San Clemente, California, fighting out of MTK Global, she is “The Black Label” Lexi Sheckler!
[Lexi Sheckler looks very relaxed as she stays put in her corner rolling her shoulders.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Alright ladies and gentlemen we are all set and ready to get this Lightweight bout kicked off. The betting lines are pretty close for this one, giving the slight edge to DeSilva, however if you look at the social media poll, that’s not the case. 78% of the fans that voted picked Bellamy DeSilva to take this one.
PATRICK CARSON
That could be more of a case of “what have you done lately” than a true prediction. Momentum is a big factor in this industry, but so it redemption. Our referee for this bout is Jordan Ripley. He checks off with each fighter and quickly calls for the bell. And here we go!
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The bell announces the first round. Both fighters slowly close the distance in the center of the octagon. A shovel hook by Lexi Sheckler tags Bellamy DeSilva. Sheckler throws a one-two combo then fakes a move to fire a big right hand on the chin! The strikes hit home! DeSilva counters with a stiff jab. That barely hits Sheckler's face but it seems like one finger has poked his eye! Jordan Ripley saw it! Ripley halts the fight to give Sheckler time to recover and warns DeSilva. Sheckler seems to be ready to fight again and the fight resumes with both fighters standing.]
PATRICK CARSON
Not an ideal way to start the fight. It didn;t look intentional, hence the warning but DeSilva has got to be careful out there.
[Both fighters circle around looking for angles, and Sheckler finds an opening for a nice single leg takedown. Sheckler lands in side mount over Bellamy DeSilva on the mat. DeSilva attempts to trap Sheckler in his guard and manages to switch to full guard. DeSilva takes this opportunity to rest. DeSilva measures the resilience of Sheckler's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard. Those hits are leaving hitches in Sheckler's side. Sheckler gets good position on the ground but quickly DeSilva pins her arms and counters his opponent’s punches. DeSilva isolates an arm in a kimura attempt! Sheckler blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass DeSilva's guard.]
PATRICK CARSON
Sheckler hits a nice takedown to bring the fight to the mat, but DeSilva puts in the work looking for any sort of submission.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I don’t think anyone would call him world class on the mat, but the guy can hold his own.
[Sheckler is in half guard over DeSilva. She tries to free her leg. She uses some of her skills by jumping out of DeSilva's guard and moves quickly to full mount! DeSilva tries to roll on the ground and gets a nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Lexi Sheckler! DeSilva tries to keep his position while looking for some ground and pound. Bellamy is able to control the situation despite Sheckler’s efforts to escape from the full mount. DeSilva unloads with some solid punches and they could take their toll. Sheckler tries to roll to her side and get to half guard but DeSilva rolls Sheckler to her stomach and takes her back!]
[DeSilva is in rear mount over Sheckler. She doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet but DeSilva denies her. DeSilva now tries to get a hook in! Things get worse for Sheckler! DeSilva has one hook in and keeps working! Deep breaths from Lexi Sheckler who tries a hammer punch to DeSilva's ribs. That hit DeSilva who moves on the ground in order to protect himself better. DeSilva still has one hook in and is trying to get the second one! If he succeeds, things are going to get very bad for Sheckler. DeSilva continues to press on and now has two hooks in! The end may be near!]
PATRICK CARSON
Uh oh. Lexi Sheckler is in a very vulnerable position right now. She needs to do something to escape!
[DeSilva positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows! One, two, three! Sheckler's being punished here! Sheckler's right eye is beginning to swell now. DeSilva continues to open up Sheckler with a few strikes with his right elbow. Nice shots are landing and Sheckler is trying to block them with her hands. DeSilva throws his leg over Sheckler's arm, leaving her with only one arm to defend herself from Bellamy DeSilva's rear naked choke attempt! That Rear Naked Choke from Bellamy DeSilva appears to be unbreakable! Somehow, Lexi Sheckler frees her arm and defends the choke. She manages to turn into Bellamy DeSilva and ends up on top!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Wow! I thought that was the end for Lexi right there. I don’t know how she managed to slip free from that rear naked choke.
[Lexi Sheckler looks to posture up and open Bellamy DeSilva's guard but DeSilva has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked. Sheckler is in closed guard and DeSilva tries to roll on the ground! Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Lexi Sheckler! Sheckler tries to roll to her side and get to half guard but DeSilva rolls Sheckler to her stomach again and takes her back! The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.]
PATRICK CARSON
Man, Sheckler was in a bad spot there at the end of the round. Clearly she’ll want to keep the fight upright and stay away from DeSilva’s ground game.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Other than that nail-biter there at the end, I thought that round was a toss up. Lexi was able to open up with strikes early in the fight, but I think that takedown was a mistake on her part. Yeah it looks good on the cards, but it put her in dangerous territory.
=========================================
ROUND TWO
=========================================
[The second round begins and DeSilva fires off a high kick! It grazes Sheckler's head, but she seems okay. DeSilva looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Lexi Sheckler's punches. DeSilva measures the resilience of Sheckler's chin with an uppercut while Sheckler lands some great crosses. A high kick from Bellamy DeSilva grazes Sheckler's head once again, but she looks fine. Sheckler throws a looping right hand but DeSilva moves aside and dodges. DeSilva jumps over his opponent and tries to grapple. Bellamy DeSilva pushes his opponent against the fence in a plum position. The fighters are clinching. Sheckler tries to take DeSilva down. He stumbles back and Sheckler launches a few punches. DeSilva dodges and moves away a couple of steps.]
[DeSilva jumps over his opponent and tries to grapple again. Bellamy DeSilva pushes his opponent back against the fence in a plum position. Sheckler launches a few hard punches to DeSilva's ribs! Bellamy DeSilva shows the damage! Sheckler is working her opponent’s ribs! DeSilva shrugs his way out of the clinch and slips free of Lexi Sheckler's grip. Nice job of getting out of that position.]
PATRICK CARSON
Bellamy thought the clinch would allow him to control the tempo on the feet, but Lexi lit him up!
[Bellamy DeSilva moves forward looking for some grappling action, this time getting his opponent in a textbook double collar thai clinch! DeSilva tries a leg sweep and catches Lexi off guard and takes the fight to the ground. DeSilva lands in side mount. Sheckler tries to move on the ground and shows DeSilva a crack in her guard which he uses for a big elbow! Sheckler's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks her head against the mat! Jordan Ripley knows he may be calling off the fight soon!]
[Bellamy DeSilva looks to mount Lexi Sheckler… He slides his knee across and gets to full mount. Sheckler tries to stand up but DeSilva doesn't allow her. Sheckler tries to roll to her side and trap DeSilva in her guard but DeSilva reads it perfect and rolls her over and takes her back! DeSilva tries to get a hook in and after a struggle, sinks it in! DeSilva has one hook in and keeps working! Sheckler tries to move on the ground and shows DeSilva a crack in her guard which he uses for a big elbow and cuts her open!]
PATRICK CARSON
DeSilva manages to get the rear mount with a hook in on Sheckler, and just like the first round, this could be a big problem for Sheckler.
[DeSilva has one hook in and is trying to get the second one! Nicely done! DeSilva now has two hooks in! The end may be near! Sheckler tries to move on the ground and Bellamy DeSilva cracks her with another big elbow! DeSilva looks for a way to finish his opponent! This is a nightmare for Sheckler! DeSilva has one of his arms over Sheckler's shoulder and is ready for a RNC! He is working on a desperate Sheckler, who tries to defend herself and escape from this position.]
[DeSilva continues to look for a way to finish his opponent. Sheckler adopts the turtle defense and DeSilva is ready to make his way to victory with a round of punches! Sheckler has to use some of her skills to escape safely from this position but she is unable to find a way to escape. DeSilva moves around, still looking to sink a rear naked choke and finish this. Bellamy DeSilva suddenly changes gears and isolates an arm looking for an armbar from the back! Sheckler struggles to free herself! DeSilva throws his leg over and Lexi Sheckler is in serious trouble! Bellamy DeSilva extends his hips and Lexi Sheckler is forced to tapout to the crafty armbar!]
PATRICK CARSON
Bellamy DeSilva finishes this one off with the armbar! He baited Lexi in with the rear naked choke on a couple occasions and just like that, switches up to lock in that armbar deep.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
This is a guy that trains with Asher Jrue, someone we’ve seen pull off exciting submissions out of nowhere. I mean it’s no flying omoplata, but still very impressive!
[The crowd explodes into cheers and DeSilva is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors check in on Sheckler for a while before helping her to her feet. After doctors and cut men finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, referee Jordan Ripley has called for a stop in this fight at four minutes one second in the second round, for your winner by submission, “The Pride of Brazil” Bellamy DeSilva!
[The crowd cheers once again as DeSilva has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
Winner: Bellamy DeSilva by Submission (Armbar) at 4:01 Round 2
Statistics: Lexi Sheckler
Punches 6/8 (75%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 3/7 (43%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 1/6 (17%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 399 s
Statistics: Bellamy DeSilva
Punches 1/1 (100%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 13/15 (87%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 399 s
♫
MASTERMINDS! WE GON' GET THIS FOREVER
YOU KNOW WHENEVER WE LINK UP, MY NIGGA
THEY THINK THIS SHIT COMES FROM OUTER SPACE OR SOMETHING
NIGGA, LET'S GET THIS MONEY NIGGA
♫
["The Devil is a Lie" by Rick Ross ft. Jay-Z begins to throughout the arena. August Pope slowly makes his way out while bouncing to keep warm in his walkout fight kit. Just behind him, security guards and his corner crew follow his lead towards the octagon.]
PATRICK CARSON
The first walkout for this Co-Main Event Bout is a fighter who has some exceptional skills and yet has so much room to improve. August Pope is looking to rebound after going four rounds with then Lightweight Champion Jordan Parker-Kane at UGP 14. Pope showed a lot of heart in that fight and pushed JPK to his limits.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Now he faces the number three ranked fighter in his division and a lot are at stake here. A win tonight would definitely put him back in title shot discussions, but I’m not sure if it would put him next in line. This is an extremely deep, competitive, and balanced division but who knows? If he puts on a clinic, maybe it would persuade the rankings committee enough to bump him up a few spots. But right now, all he needs to focus on is bringing that same heart and determination in his last fight here tonight and getting past this with a “W”.
[Pope doesn’t show much emotion as he makes it to cageside and gets checked by the bout official. Once cleared, he rushes up the steps and heads straight to his corner, shadow boxing along the way.]
♫
THEY SAY MY TIME IS ALMOST UP, TELL THEM BITCHES, "WISH, WISH"
ALL THESE HOES LOOKIN' COLD, ALL THESE BITCHES FISH STICKS
PUT A RIBBON ON MY BOX 'CAUSE THIS PUSSY GIFTED
I AIN'T GOT NO FREE TIME, ALL MY SHIT EXPENSIVE
♫
["Wish Wish" by DJ Khaled ft. Cardi B and 21 Savage begins playing over the PA system and the Throne MMA prospect Sofia King slowly emerges out onto the main stage. The crowd grows louder with cheers as King pauses for a brief moment to take in the energy of the crowd. Soon, she continues her way down the aisle and towards the cage.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now our first New York fighter of the night, Sofia King is in the building! A very exciting signing during the brief hiatus of Union GP, King was believed to go deep in the Lightweight Grand Prix Tournament, however she suffered a shocking upset to a revitalized Xabier Belazco. She has gone 1-1 so far here in Union, but still sits high in the rankings due to her previous body of work. If she can secure a victory here tonight, it would certainly solidify herself as a potential candidate for a title shot.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
You’re absolutely right there, Patrick. Even though she’s a new face to Union Grand Prix, she’s no stranger to the MMA world. She’s been a student under the tutelage of MMA Icon and our EVP Heidi Kanensson in the Throne MMA facilities, so her credentials are definitely warranted. If she can work her game plan tonight against a fighter who put on one of the best fights in the Lightweight Grand Prix in a title fight and score a victory, it would absolutely put her on the short list of opponents of our current Lightweight Champion Delaney Donovan. Pope had some difficulties against JPK’s grappling so if King can replicate that to a degree, she’s got a very good chance of coming out of this fight victorious.
[Once King has made it to cageside, she turns around to embrace each one of her corner crew members with a hug before stripping down to her fight gear. She turns back to the fight official to get inspected and ensure she is fit to fight. Once she has been cleared, she turns once more to each member of her corner crew and gives one last hug to each one before racing up the steps. Once she enters the cage, she throws her arms out wide and lets out a primal scream to get herself hyped up before heading to her corner.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Co-Main Event of the evening! The following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Lightweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-1. He stands 6’ even and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, he is August Pope!
[August Pope looks a bit uneasy in his corner. Hopefully this doesn't affect his performance..]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Judo Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 5-2. She stands 5’5” and weighing in at 128 pounds. She is from University Heights, Bronx, New York, fighting out of Throne MMA, she is “Sensational” Sofia King!
[King steps out towards the center of the cage and waves to acknowledge the roar of her hometown crowd.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
We’re all set now for this Co-Main Event bout with two fighters looking to rebound from tough losses. So much is at stake here, but only one will right the ship here tonight. Will it be the young upstart Pope, or the New Yorker Sofia King? For me this is a tough one to make a prediction, but the majority of our fanbase didn’t seem to think so. A resounding 75% of the fans who took the surveyed the poll believe that Sofia King takes this one here tonight.
PATRICK CARSON
It’s no secret the fans are behind Sofia tonight. When King entered the cage, this place was about to burst! That can be a major motivator for both fighters tonight. But now it’s time to put the speculations to rest and get this fight kicked into gear! Our referee for this Co-Main Event bout is Herschel Warden. He checks off with each fighter one last time and calls for the bell! And here we go!
[King and Pope move forward as the bell signals the beginning of the fight! Pope doesn't waste but time and launches a kick but Sofia King avoids it and lands flush with a counter hook! King looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Pope's punches and King is on the receiving end of a great combo by Pope. Pope attempts a sweep single but King was ready and shrugs off the takedown attempt and then both fighters size each other up in the center of the cage.]
[King and Pope step into each other and engage in a wild exchange of punches! King is getting the best of the exchange as she lands a few blows. King shoots for a double leg takedown and hits it! Pope is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull King into his guard. King tries to escape from closed guard, but Pope waits for the right moment and tries to roll! Too late for Sofia King! She gets reversed and now Pope is on half guard! Pope tries to get a side mount by freeing his leg and is now controlling King from the side mount!]
PATRICK CARSON
Sofia King executes a textbook double leg to bring this fight to the mat. Pope isn’t really known for his ground game, but so far looks to be handling himself pretty well.
[Pope is trying to better his position on the ground and launches a couple of elbows against King's ribs. King blocks Pope's moves and tries to reverse the situation. King attempts to trap Pope in her guard and manages to switch to full guard. Pope quickly moves on the ground and gets back to half guard. King continues to move on the bottom and suddenly attempts a triangle from the bottom! Pope slips out. King quickly turns her hips over and switches to the armbar! She's throwing everything at him! Pope struggles to free himself but eventually slips out and backs away to avoid any further danger. Herschel Warden halts the fight to stand up Sofia King and the fight resumes with both fighters standing.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
That right there is why August Pope should not try to stick around on the ground. King showed some excellent transitions in those submission attempts, and given the time, she’s gonna catch him.
[Back on their feet, August Pope launches a rapid series of punches that glance off King's arms. Pope now tries to bring the fight to the ground but King won't budge, forcing Pope to pull guard. King tries to escape from the closed guard but she cannot get any advantage on the ground. King now tries to improve her position on the ground as she sits on her knees and tries to break the closed guard. Pope leans and gets King's arms as he brings her to the ground again. Pope tries to roll on the ground now and gets a nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Sofia King!]
[Sofia King tries to roll on the ground to reverse the situation but Pope seemingly knows how to keep his advantage on the ground. King tries to roll to her side and trap Pope in her guard but Pope keeps good control and remains in full mount. Pope launches a few weak punches but King is able to block them effectively. After a while, the referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground. Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing.]
PATRICK CARSON
I gotta say, August Pope is looking pretty good on the ground there. He’s using his size advantage to create a lot of pressure and not allowing King to get anything going.
[Pope fakes a punch and shoots a takedown but King reads it well and sprawls back to remain on her feet. Pope and King circle around to the center of the cage before engaging in a wild exchange of punches! August Pope is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows. A brilliant combination from August Pope lands clean that forces King to try and defend better. Pope throws a hook as King steps back and that hits its mark. Pope tries to take the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown and this time King is unable to remain on her feet and falls to the mat.]
[Pope is in open guard over King. Pope moves on the ground but cannot take control. Pope is cooling the fight on the ground for the last few seconds and then the referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.]
PATRICK CARSON
Pretty interesting first round out there, Willy. Coming into this, we all expected that Pope would try to keep this one standing and utilize his boxing background, however he actually landed a couple of takedowns and looked pretty good on the ground.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
No doubt, we all thought this would be a battle of where the fight stays. King had some good moments early in the round with those submissions attempts, but other than that, this was all Pope. I’d be curious to see how the judges scored this first round.
[The second round begins and this fight is still up for grabs. These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect as they slowly make their way out from their corners. King launches a stiff jab but Pope ducks out of it just in time and counters with a vicious combination! Some big punches are landing! Sofia King now retaliates and unleashes a flurry of strikes! King just won't stop and continues to rain punches, Pope may be in trouble!]
PATRICK CARSON
Sparks are flying in the second here as both fighters trade off some incredible combinations!
[A crisp uppercut by Pope followed by a hard jab lands and Sofia King stumbles back. King shoots for a double leg takedown and hits it! Pope is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull King into his guard. Pope breathes deeply while on the ground. King uses some of her wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard! After a few tentative moves, she jumps to side mount and the New York crowd cheers her on! Pope is moving on the ground and BOOM! That was a headbutt! Did he do that intentionally? Herschel Warden didn't see it! Pope attempts to trap King in his guard and manages to switch to half guard. Pope launches a few punches to King's cheek from the guard now and those punches sure are annoying because King tries to cover her face.]
[August Pope struggles a bit before he is able to close his guard around King. August Pope is cooling the fight on the ground now. Pope tries to roll on the ground and gets a nice reversal! He is now in full mount over King! Pope tries to keep his position while looking for some ground and pound. He controls the situation despite King’s efforts to escape from the full mount. Out of nowhere, Pope goes for an armbar! Sofia King breaks the lock and pushes Pope away, who rolls over her back and gets to standing position. Herschel Warden halts the fight to stand up August Pope. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
August Pope is looking comfortable out there right now as he went for an armbar. Confidence is one thing, but don't get cocky out there!
[Back on the feet, Sofia King tries a nice one-two combination but that gets blocked and both fighters circle around the center of the cage. King shoots a single leg but Pope is able to fend it off. King decides to launch some tentative punches but gets nothing from this exchange. King moves back and takes a breath. Pope sets up with a fake punch and shoots a single leg takedown of his own, and King is caught off guard and gets put to the mat.]
[August Pope is in side mount over Sofia King. King tries to show some ground skills but Pope uses his strength to keep her at a disadvantage. Pope looks to counter now! He launches a few punches to King but they don’t do much damage. He needs to improve his position. Sofia King attempts to trap August Pope in her guard, but Pope keeps control and remains in side mount. King shows some bruises after a few exchanges with his opponent. Both fighters pretty much stall until the buzzer sounds and Herschel Warden tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.]
PATRICK CARSON
Another close round. It could go to either fighter.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
No question, I don’t think either fighter really took commanding control in that round and it puts the judges in a tough spot. One more round here, it’s time to leave it all out there!
[The final round begins and both fighters slowly close the distance toward the center of the octagon. King looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Pope's punches. King measures the resilience of Pope's chin with an uppercut while Pope lands some great crosses. Great exchange here! King steps back and is taking out her mouthpiece to breathe. She rushes back in with a single leg takedown attempt, but Pope shows great balance while pushing King off. King and Pope engage in a wild exchange of punches and August Pope is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows.]
PATRICK CARSON
Every round these two fighters have started off fast. These two are showing what it takes to be at the top of the game tonight!
[The two continue to exchange wildly while Pope is connecting with a few punches. King launches a stiff jab but Pope ducks it. King tries to bring the fight to the ground but Pope won't budge, forcing King to pull guard. Pope works on the ground with his fingers over King's face and he seems to have encountered the eye! What a classless move! Herschel Warden didn't see it! Pope tries to open up King's defense faking a few punches. He is aggressively and repeatedly punching King in the side of the head now! The ref may be calling this one off soon if she doesn;t defend herself! King tries to roll on the ground! Pope uses his leg to keep his position on the ground and then launches a few weak punches. He needs to improve his position.]
[King tries an armbar from the bottom but August Pope breaks the lock and moves himself to side control. August Pope looks to mount Sofia King. He slides his knee across and gets to full mount now. King launches a few weak punches but Pope is able to block them effectively. Pope launches a few punches back but he needs to improve his position because they do little to no damage. King tries to roll to her side and get to half guard. Pope rolls King to her stomach and takes her back! King has given her back to Pope who is trying to get a hook in and eventually he gets it! King has to use some of her ground skills to escape safely from this position but she is unable to find a way to escape from this.]
PATRICK CARSON
Tough spot for Sofia King right now. Pope is using his size advantage to the fullest here.
[Pope continues in rear mount over King with one hook in. Sofia King is visibly gassed. You have to wonder how much she has left. King doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet but she can't do it because of Pope's movements. After a while, Herschel Warden has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters. Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing.]
[Back on their feet, August Pope tries to take the action to his favorite field as he tries to grapple. Great move by Pope who pushes his opponent forward with a double underhooks. King doesn't want to clinch as she ducks under August Pope and tries to move away but Pope pushes King forward and doesn't allow her to break the clinch. Pope pauses for a moment before going for a scissor takedown! Sofia King is down after that takedown and they are scrambling for position. August Pope gets the advantage.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Oh my god, what a takedown by Pope! Who knew he had that kind of technique to pull off a scissor takedown?!
[Pope is trying to better his position on the ground and launches a couple of elbows against King's ribs. King tries to close an armbar from the bottom! Pope knows what was coming and counters the lock. King switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle! Pope struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head out of the lock! Pope struggles to move to full mount now and eventually gets to it. Sofia King looks rather shattered out there. Sofia King tries to roll to her side and trap Pope in her guard but he keeps good control and remains in full mount. The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the fight. Both fighters embrace before heading to their corners.]
PATRICK CARSON
And this one will go to the judges scorecards, but if I’m honest, I don’t think anyone will argue that August Pope takes this one.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
August Pope has punished King very much in this fight. It looked like she lost her confidence in winning this fight. Anything she tried, Pope was able to avoid it. Very competitive fight, but I have to agree, Pope takes this one in my mind. But… We’ll just have to see how the judges score it.
[Both fighters get worked on by the medical staff for a moment while they recover. After the medics finish their work, the two fighters head back out to the center of the cage for the official ruling.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, after three rounds, we go to the judges’ scorecards. All three judges scored it 30-27 for your winner by unanimous decision, August Pope!
[The crowd is split between cheers and boos once Pope has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
JUDGE MIRANDA FRANCO
Sofia King 9 9 9: 27
August Pope 10 10 10: 30
JUDGE MAX CARVER
Sofia King 9 9 9: 27
August Pope 10 10 10: 30
JUDGE OZZIE SEBASTIAN
Sofia King 9 9 9: 27
August Pope 10 10 10: 30
Winner: August Pope by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Sofia King
Punches 8/22 (36%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/2 (0%)
Takedowns 2/5 (40%)
GnP strikes 0/3 (0%)
Submissions 4/4 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 506 s
Statistics: August Pope
Punches 26/44 (59%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 2/2 (100%)
Takedowns 2/5 (40%)
GnP strikes 15/26 (58%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 506 s
[Dylan Carter stands at ringside, the crowd behind him jockeying for position to be on camera, except for two people just over Carter’s shoulder.]
DYLAN CARTER
An electric night here at the Nassau County Coliseum, as we venture through the card here at Boss Fight. My guest at this time may be an unknown to many here in Union Grand Prix, but whisper the man’s name and those who know that name, simply nod quietly. A world class fighter, shooter, and catch wrestler, he will be making his in-cage debut very short, please welcome ‘The Man with the Hand of Fate’ Harmon Janssen.
[A bearded man stands up behind Carter, towering over him. Carter turns and looks up as Janssen takes his leather jacket off, handing it to a smaller, dark-haired woman sitting beside him. He looks over at Carter, giving a curt nod at the acknowledgement.]
HARMON JANSSEN
Thanks.
DYLAN CARTER
Harmon Janssen, from my sources, it’s been nearly 14 years since…
HARMON JANSSEN
... Let me stop you right there. This isn’t about then. This is about the here and now.
DYLAN CARTER
But it’s quite unusual for a now-41 year old to be making his debut inside of the cage here in Union.
HARMON JANSSEN
And my soon to be named opponents shouldn’t try to use my advanced age as a negative. It’s been quite awhile since I’ve been in a.. Sanctioned Match, Mr. Carter. But that doesn’t mean I haven’t been fighting. I’ve been that daily struggle that is life. It may not sound like much to some but it’s truthful. There are things in life that build experience that no fight in the cage can ever replicate.
DYLAN CARTER
What motivates you to make this return to the cage?
HARMON JANSSEN
I lead a simple life, Mr. Carter. I do three things in my simple life. I play billiards. I let Ms. Delaney wear my leather jacket… and I Fight.
[Janssen looks directly at the camera.]
HARMON JANSSEN
Just because I enjoy my simple life, and that it’s been quite a long time since this warrior has been inside of that octagon for a sanctioned match, doesn’t mean that my skills have diminished. In fact, my skills have never been better. It just means people haven’t heard of me. The current fan just hasn’t seen me in the cage. Just like the Islander fans here on Long Island don’t forget their Dynasty of the early 80’s, the fans of Union Grand Prix will not forget when Fate is Revealed and Harmon Janssen gives everyone a reminder of what he’s capable of.
DYLAN CARTER
Tonight’s main event has the Former two time Heavyweight Champion Derrick Labell taking on one of the best in Union Grand Prix in Mike Hunt. Is there one of these two you’d like to see standing across from you in the near future?
[Janssen looks at Carter and gives a cheshire grin, then sits back down, turning to Emma and ignoring Carter. Carter turns back to the camera with a slightly astonished look.]
DYLAN CARTER
Looks like there’s a new fighter in Union Grand Prix and he’s ready for a fight. Let’s get back to the action for our main event of the evening!
♫
ATTENTION PLEASE, ATTENTION PLEASE
THIS SHIT HERE FEELS LIKE A WHOLE ENTIRE WORLD COLLAPSED
MOTHERFUCKER!
♫
[“Ante Up” by M.O.P. ft. Busta Rhymes, Teflon, and Remy Martin thumps over the loudspeaker and Mike Hunt emerges to the main stage wearing his walkout fight kit with crew members from his camp following behind. Hunt has a stone cold look on his face as he never breaks stride and slowly prowls down the aisle.]
PATRICK CARSON
Coming to the octagon now is the Queens, New York native and Real Killas prospect, Mike Hunt! Bam Bam made a quite literal gigantic splash in the MMA scene by defeating “The Black Rose” Hanako Takeuchi for the IJPW Shoot Crown Championship in his debut. He was able to rack up a couple more victories but has since been one a two fight skid, once in Union GP against the then Heavyweight Champion Donnie Calabrese, and then another in G2 against Navorro Williams for that IJPW Shoot Crown Title. Hunt is, no pun intended, on the hunt for another crack at championship gold, and he’s got the launch pad to do it here tonight.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
If he can score a win here against the two-time Heavyweight Champion, then yes he makes a big case for another title shot. However, Calabrese is still in the equation, and we all know that Union GP President Dante Reed typically will give a rematch to a former champion if they have a successful defense to their reign. But anyone can be persuaded in this industry, if Hunt can deliver a monster performance, who’s to say he won’t get the next shot?
[Hunt makes it to cageside where he is checked by the fight official. Once he’s cleared, he races up the steps and jogs around the cage a couple times before staying put in his corner.]
♫
HOLD UP, SON, WORD
YEAH, TO ALL THE KILLERS AND A HUNDRED DOLLAR BILLAS
FOR REAL NIGGAS WHO AIN’T GOT NO FEELINGS
CHECK IT OUT NOW
♫
[“Shook Ones Part II” by Mobb Deep plays throughout the arena. “Long Island Strong” Derrick La’Bell slowly makes his way out while bouncing to keep warm in his black and white walkout fight kit. Just behind him, guards and his corner follow his lead towards the octagon.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now, the final walkout of the night, the Uniondale hometown hero, the two-time Heavyweight Champion, Derrick La’Bell! This is La’Bell’s first fight since his crushing loss to Donnie Calabrese in the opening round of the Championship Grand Prix, and shockingly his first fight on a Boss Fight card. The guy has been a major staple and draw for Union GP since its inception, and one more interesting fact, this is his first non-title fight since the inaugural championship round robin back at UGP 3!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
That last stat is an incredible feat. Six straight fights where the title was on the line. That right there tells you that La’Bell is a mainstay and a huge staple to this division. Some questioned the third fight with Calabrese to open the Championship Grand Prix tournament, given the fact that La’Bell had resoundingly beat Donnie twice before. But it just goes to show the growth and how this division has evolved. But one big thing people love about La’Bell, he treats all of his opponents, win or lose, with the utmost respect. Now, he gets a fight with a top three contender in his hometown, and a chance to get right back in their in the title hunt.
[La’Bell doesn’t show much emotion as he makes it to cageside and gets checked by the bout official. Once cleared, he stomps up the steps and heads straight to his corner, shadow boxing along the way.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! It’s time for the Main Event of the evening! The following contest is scheduled for five 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 3-2. He stands 6’1” and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Queens, New York, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, he is “Bam Bam Jigglow” Mike Hunt!
[Mike Hunt looks like he has been waiting for this fight forever as he raises a fist in the air to the roaring crowd.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Wrestler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 6-3. He stands 6’ even and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Uniondale, Long Island, New York, fighting out of The Lair, he is the former two-time Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Champion, “The Beast” Derrick La’Bell!
[Derrick La'Bell is calm and confident in his corner. His Uniondale crowd is blowing the roof off with cheers.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Alright ladies and gentlemen, we are all set for this heavyweight main event. Five rounds scheduled, but let’s be honest, if this goes past the first I’ll be shocked.
PATRICK CARSON
The Heavyweight Division is notorious for fast finishes, given that most of these fighters have to actually cut to make the 265 limit, and these two behemoths inside the cage are two examples.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Before we begin, let’s take a quick look at how our fans see this one playing out. 60% of the fans that took our social media poll has Derrick La’Bell taking this one tonight.
PATRICK CARSON
Hard to argue with his accolades we mentioned about the guy, however Mike Hunt is hungry to make a splash here. And now it’s time folks! The referee for this main event bout is Dusty Whittaker. He checks off with each man one last time and calls for the bell! And here we go!
[Derrick La'Bell and Mike Hunt touch gloves in the center to get this fight started. Both fighters circle around to look for angles, and La'Bell shoots for a double leg takedown! Hunt sprawls back and manages to stay on his feet. La'Bell gets sloppy and Hunt tries to take advantage. Hunt tries to grapple and puts La'Bell in a double underhook! Both fighters are tied in a clinch now. Hunt pushes off of La'Bell and starts launching a flurry of hooks and body shots! La'Bell stumbles back but Hunt chases him and continues the rain of blows! There is a small laceration on Derrick La'Bell's right eye now!]
PATRICK CARSON
Mike Hunt is unleashing on the former champ right now! This one could be over quick!
[Hunt continues to work his opponent ribs with a few hard punches. Derrick La'Bell’s face shows the damage! La'Bell tries to shrug his way out of the clinch but Hunt is determined to work from the clinch. He pummels through and manages to retain his position. Hunt pushes La’Bell uo against the cage and steps in for a hip toss! Derrick La'Bell is gets thrown to the mat but gets right back up. The fighters stay in the clinch and Hunt tries a knee to the midsection but La'Bell blocks that knee. Poorly executed technique. Derrick La'Bell looks to counter! La'Bell doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Mike Hunt and tries to move away but Hunt pushes La'Bell forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.]
[Hunt pushes La'Bell back up against the cage. He hammers La'Bell’s face with an elbow and hooks La'Bell’s leg. Derrick La'Bell is on his back after that trip! Mike Hunt is in closed guard over La'Bell now. La'Bell tries to move on the ground and shows Hunt a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow! La'Bell gets hits with a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Dusty Whittaker knows he may be calling off the fight soon! La'Bell has a small cut on his forehead now. Hunt uses some of his wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard! After a few tentative moves, he jumps to side mount!]
[Mike Hunt looks to mount La'Bell. He slides his knee across and gets to full mount. Hunt is moving on the ground and La'Bell tries to counter his moves. La'Bell tries to roll to his side and trap Hunt in his guard but Hunt keeps good control and remains in full mount. La'Bell tries to stand up! A quick burst and he is now on his feet! Dusty Whittaker halts the fight to stand up Mike Hunt. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Mike Hunt is looking phenomenal out there right now. I think he’s caught La’Bell off guard.
[Hunt looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Derrick La'Bell's punches. Hunt measures the resilience of La'Bell's chin with an uppercut while La'Bell lands some great crosses. La'Bell launches a hook to the body and Hunt stops that one with his ribs! Hard blow to Hunt's midsection, he seems hurt! Mike Hunt fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. La'Bell and Hunt step into each other and engage in a wild exchange of punches! Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch!]
[A pulverizing punch to Hunt's head dazes him, but then he fires back with a barrage of punches! This is getting worse and worse for La'Bell! Mike Hunt lands a nice one-two combination as La’Bell tries to circle out. Mike Hunt leans forwards and grapples with La'Bell into a clinch. La'Bell doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Mike Hunt and tries to move away. Nice move from La'Bell who put some distance between them. La'Bell and Hunt engage in a wild exchange of punches as they separate and Hunt is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows.]
[Hunt moves forward looking for some action but La'Bell doesn't want to engage and backpedals. La'Bell looks like he is gassing out... Too bad. His performance may suffer from here. La'Bell tries to take the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown. Hunt is unable to remain on his feet and falls to the mat.]
PATRICK CARSON
Mike Hunt looks like a man possessed out there and La’Bell tries to slow the tempo, taking the fight to the ground.
[Mike Hunt launches a few punches to La'Bell's cheek from the guard. La'Bell uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward. Hunt misses a step and Derrick La'Bell sees an opportunity to counter him! La'Bell pushes Mike Hunt against the fence and then tries to improve his position. Mike Hunt struggles not allowing La'Bell to improve his position. La'Bell is taking out his mouthpiece to breathe. La'Bell sees an opening and storms over Hunt with some punishing trademark elbows! La'Bell doesn't stop and viciously hits again and again! Hunt's mouth is beginning to swell now.]
[La'Bell continues to throw down elbows and he's tearing up Hunt's face! Hunt needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it! There is a small laceration on Mike Hunt's left cheek now. Hunt tries to close his guard around La'Bell but he is not able to do it. Hunt isolates an arm in a kimura attempt! La'Bell blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Hunt's guard. Hunt fails here and it's time for Derrick La'Bell to fight back! Derrick La'Bell hovers above Hunt and lands some good punches to the body. Hunt doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet but he can't do it. The buzzer finally sounds and Dusty Whittaker separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.]
PATRICK CARSON
What a turn of events here in the opening round! Mike Hunt started off fast right out the gate, completely manhandling La’Bell. But once the fight went to the ground and Derrick was able to mount, he unloaded those signature elbows and really evened the score.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I don’t know how the judges will score that round, but even though La’Bell finished strong, I think Hunt controlled the tempo throughout most of the round and for me, I give him the nod. Let’s see how these guys adjust in the second round.
[The second round begins and both fighters close the distance. A crisp uppercut by La'Bell followed by a hard jab lands clean and Mike Hunt stumbles back. La'Bell tries to take the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown and takes his opponent to the mat. La'Bell is in open guard over Hunt, he fakes a move and then tries a kneebar! Hunt rolls on the ground trying to get free and after a few kicks of his own he escapes. Dusty Whittaker halts the fight to stand up Derrick La'Bell. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.]
PATRICK CARSON
Derrick La’Bell didn’t waste much time trying to take the fight back to the mat where he really took control in the first round. Hunt is going to have to watch those takedown attempts.
[Hunt throws several good body shots but La’Bell is able to dodge them. La'Bell grabs his opponent and takes the fight to the mat with a beautiful waistlock takedown. Derrick La'Bell tries to pass to half guard and Mike Hunt can't prevent his opponent from passing. La'Bell looks to work from half guard now. Mike Hunt works from the bottom and throws up a triangle attempt! La'Bell quickly postures up and breaks the triangle.]
[Hunt attempts to move to full guard but La'Bell keeps good control and remains in half guard. La'Bell tries to pass Mike Hunt's guard and manages to get his leg free and move to side mount. Hunt is moving on the ground but La’Bell follows close and manages to move to full mount now. La'Bell launches a barrage of elbows over Hunt's face! Those elbows may finish the fight soon if Hunt doesn't fight back! Hunt seems a bit groggy, his movements are not very coordinated now. Hunt tries to escape from the full mount, but La'Bell is not caught off guard and moves to side mount to keep his superior position.]
[Derrick La'Bell moves to better his position on the ground. He sets up and viciously slams hammer fists to Hunt's face! Hunt gets caught off guard and La'Bell turns out the lights for Hunt! What an astonishing KO by La'Bell out of nowhere!]
PATRICK CARSON
And this one is all over! What a comeback victory by Derrick La’Bell!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Man he looked rough to start off this fight, but weathered the storm and used his strengths to setup that lethal ground and pound he’s become so well known for. Big win for the Long Island fighter!
[The crowd explodes into cheers and La’Bell is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Hunt for a while before helping him to his feet. After doctors and cut men finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, referee Dusty Whittaker has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes thirty-one seconds in the second round, for your winner by knockout, “The Beast” Derrick La’Bell!
[The crowd cheers once again as La’Bell has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
Winner: Derrick La'Bell by KO (GnP) at 2:31 Round 2
Statistics: Derrick La'Bell
Punches 9/13 (69%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 3/4 (75%)
GnP strikes 18/22 (82%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 224 s
Statistics: Mike Hunt
Punches 13/20 (65%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 7/13 (54%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 1/4 (25%)
Submissions 2/2 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 224 s