BELL CENTRE
MONTREAL, QUEBEC, CANADA
NOVEMBER 24, 2019
PRE-SHOW
TENSLEY TAYLOR SINGS
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
Follow Tensley Taylor on Twitter
♫
"THAI VG" BY RIDAZ FT. ACE B
BEGINS TO PLAY
♫
[The arena lights dim low and numerous spotlights begin to scan all through the crowd as the soft whistle intro to "Thai VG" by Ridaz ft. Ace B begins to play over the loudspeaker. As soon as the first verse kicks in, the arena springs back to life with a flash of brilliant lights and the crowd grows louder with cheers. As the beat continues to thump throughout the speakers, Dang Tay slowly makes his way onto the main stage area. Tay is surrounded by cornermen and members from his training camp while he himself is dressed out in traditional Muay Thai garments. Tay looks completely zoned in on his battle ahead of him as he walks down to cageside.]
PATRICK CARSON
Making the first walkout tonight is a man making his professional MMA debut. Dang Tay has been a key player in Muay Thai over in Thailand, in which his impeccable skill set caught the eye of multiple-time pro wrestling champion Tony Savage. The two hit it off, and Savage was able to bring him into the Savage Solutions Combat Systems facilities, and ink a deal here in Union Grand Prix. I’m excited to see what he brings to the table tonight.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
From what little I've seen, Tay has a high motor when it comes to striking. I don’t expect this one to be a slow, methodical chess match out there, but a fast paced brawl. Should be a good one to kick the night off.
[Tay finally makes it to cageside and he begins to disrobe his walkout gear. He hands it all off to one of his cornermen and then steps over to be inspected by the fight official. Once he’s been cleared, he turns back and bows to his crew before slowly ascending the steps. Once he steps inside, he stoically heads to his corner, never once breaking focus.]
♫
BREAKING THE SILENCE IN THIS MORNING LIGHTS
COLD WIND IS CALLING
MARCHING WITH FIRE AND STEEL IN YOUR HEARTS
SEARCHING FOR ANSWERS
SHY MYSTIC RAIN, YOU'LL BE FROZEN IN TIME
♫
[“Into the Legends” by Rhapsody of Fire blares over the loudspeaker and Louie Bartolo emerges to the stage wearing his black and white walkout fight kit with his crew following behind. Bartolo has a stern, almost blank expression as he appears to be laser-focused on the octagon ahead of him.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now out comes The Sym Gym product, Louie Bartolo. “The Bodybag” has had a rough start to his professional tenure, but faces a young rookie making his MMA debut.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Bartolo has a decent striking game, but I don’t think it’s on the same level as Dang Tay. I feel like Bartolo will need to keep the fight close, out of Tay’s striking range, and use his wrestling background to suffocate him. If Bartolo can manage that, I think he’s got a real good chance of scoring his first professional victory.
[Bartolo finally makes it to cageside and he begins to disrobe his walkout gear. He hands it all off to one of his cornermen and then steps over to be inspected by the fight official. Once he’s been cleared, he rushes up the steps. Once he steps inside, he pounds his chest and heads to his corner.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada for Boss Fight XV! And now, this opening contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Muay Thai Fighter holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-0. He stands 5’8”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. He is from Phuket, Thailand, fighting out of Savage Solutions Combat Systems, he is "Red Death" Dang Tay!
[Dang Tay looks like he's feeling the pressure.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Wrestler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-2. He stands 5’6”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. He is from Bologna, Italy, fighting out of The Sym Gym, he is Louie “Bodybag” Bartolo!
[Louie Bartolo is calm in his corner. He looks convinced of his abilities.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Both of these fighters are in the infancy of their professional career, however, Bartolo is on this level at a much older age. That could play a factor in this one. Tay has got youth, and could try to wear his opponent down from cardio alone.
PATRICK CARSON
There’s a lot of ways this opening fight can go, but we’re about to put the speculation to rest and find out who walks out of this one with a victory in this interesting clash of styles. The referee of this bout is Dusty Whittaker. He checks off with each man and calls for the bell! And here we go!
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The bell sounds to get the opening round officially underway. Louie Bartolo and Dang Tay touch gloves in the center to get this fight started. Bartolo throws a flurry to start things off and several good body shots land before Tay circles out of danger. Bartolo circles in to cut off his opponent and shows some excellent timing by connecting with a big right hand. Dang Tay eats it on the chin and slips to the ground!]
PATRICK CARSON
Louie Bartolo showing some great footwork keeping Dang Tay close and rocked him with a big right hand.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Bartolo has got some heat behind those hands and I don’t think Tay was ready for it, to be honest. He’s got that old man strength!
[Bartolo is standing while Tay is on the ground on his back. Tay keeps his feet upright ready to defend, but Bartolo doesn’t take the bait and keeps some distance. Tay uses the space to quickly get back to his feet and the crowd cheers both fighters on. Bartolo circles around as he looks for angles. He throws a couple of jabs that are quickly countered by Dang Tay's punches. Bartolo does not relent as he unloads with an uppercut while Tay lands some great crosses. Tay fakes a punch and launches himself over Bartolo and pushes his opponent under a troublesome Thai clinch. Bartolo tries to push away to keep the fight at striking range, but Tay clamps down to keep the clinch. He shrugs once more and is able to circle out and slip free of Tay's grip.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Nice move to get out of that Thai clinch. Bartolo sensed the danger and got out of there quick.
[Dang Tay keeps the pressure on his opponent and tries to lock up the clinch again. Tay pummels through and locks it in. Bartolo quickly postures up and delivers a combo of punches to the body! Tay pushes his opponent forward and blocks most of Bartolo's offense and it looks like it's time for Tay to fight back! Tay sees an opening and swings in to land a clean uppercut to the chin! Bartolo throws a counter uppercut but Tay slips it. Bartolo decides to launch some rabbit punches to the body. Tay reacts and launches a couple of jabs that are quickly answered by Bartolo with a stiff cross!]
PATRICK CARSON
Solid exchange here as both men are connecting with some solid shots! Bartolo's chin looks a bit swollen after those barrage of punches to the face, but he still looks in this one.
[Bartolo pushes Tay back after connecting with the crisp cross and breaks free from the clinch. Bartolo circles away as he tries to recover his breathing. Tay circles in and looks for angles as he throws a few measuring jabs that are countered by Louie Bartolo's punches. Bartolo rushes in with a hook to the body but Tay dodges it and catches him a hard cross! Louie Bartolo seems hurt! He stumbles backwards and he's an easy target for Dang Tay!]
PATRICK CARSON
Ohh! Louie Bartolo just got rocked there and he could be in some serious trouble!
[Dang Tay fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. Bartolo is still reeling from the shot and Tay stalks his prey. Dang Tay feints a middle kick, which Bartolo covers for, leaving his head completely exposed. In the blink of an eye, Tay switches it up and connects with a vicious switch kick to the head and Bartolo is out instantly! Bartolo hits the canvas like a ton of bricks and the referee rushes in to call off the fight!]
PATRICK CARSON
Dang Tay landed the knockout blow that he wanted! Bartolo is down! Bartolo has been absolutely destroyed here! A great debut victory for Dang Tay!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Bartolo was covering for a middle kick but that one quick switch and he about got his head knocked off his shoulders! Beautiful setup and execution from Dang Tay!
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Dang Tay is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Bartolo 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 fifty-eight seconds in the very first round, for your winner by knockout, “Red Death” Dang Tay!
[The crowd cheers once again as Tay 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: Dang Tay by KO (High Kick) at 2:58 Round 1
Statistics: Louie Bartolo
Punches 8/10 (80%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/5 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Dang Tay
Punches 8/10 (80%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 10 s
♫
WELL, MAMA TOLD ME, WHEN I WAS YOUNG
SAID, SIT BESIDE ME, MY ONLY SON,
AND LISTEN CLOSELY TO WHAT I SAY.
AND IF YOU DO THIS, IT'LL HELP YOU SOME SUNNY DAY.
♫
[The lights dim in the arena. The intro to Shinedown’s cover of “Simple Man” begins playing over the speakers. The spotlight turns towards the entrance. Out of the curtain comes Jeff Bagwell accompanied by his team. As the cheers fill the arena, Jeff looks around with a small smile on his face, soaking in the atmosphere. The lights brighten again as Jeff makes his way slowly to the cage continuing to soak in the crowd.]
PATRICK CARSON
Making his way to the octagon now is one of the several Heavyweights recently signed to Union Grand Prix. Jeff Bagwell is new to the professional level, making his debut tonight. From what we have gathered, Bagwell has been training in all facets of mixed martial arts, not just simply one specific discipline.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
We have seen this more and more, which is a big indicator that this sport has grown to a mainstream level. I’m curious to see what he has in his arsenal tonight.
[Bagwell turns once he reaches cageside, removing his shirt; which he hands to his brother. He then turns toward the fight official to be inspected. Once he’s been cleared, he turns back to his corner crew and after a few moments of last minute instructions from the coaches, Jeff Bagwell enters the cage, ready for the fight.]
♫
THE FACE BEFORE ME FLIES
LAUGHS AT ME INSIDE
MASKS ARE MADE TO HIDE THE GLOW
SHINING EYES
DISTANCE 'TWEEN US GROWS
FEEDING LIES
♫
[With a Stoic demeanor, Harmon Janssen keeps his head down as the flashing lights illuminate the arena. His eyes near closed to keep his vision from being affected by the strobes, Janssen methodically paces down the entry, heading to cageside.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now coming to the octagon, another Heavyweight contender recently signed in a big wave to bring depth to the division, Harmon Janssen is a very interesting man. A long, long time ago, Janssen was a big name in Japan where he racked up wins against some of the biggest contenders back then. However, a very controversial situation occurred, where allegedly his former manager framed him with tainted tests that gave him a ten year ban in this sport.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Let me tell you something right now, Patrick. I knew Harmon from back in the day, and this guy is a clean fighter. Not like those scumbags from T.W. Combat, HILITE, or that Abu Dhabi embarrassment. Janssen has been quiet in all of that controversy, but I think at some point we will see the truth come out of that. I’m just happy to see him back, and on such a big stage too. The dude built a reputation of having some of the heaviest hands all-time, so I’m pretty excited to see what he’s got left in the tank.
[Janssen makes it to cageside where he strips down and allows the fight official to make their pre-fight inspections. Once he’s been cleared, he stomps up the steps and heads to his corner. As he stands in his corner, he slowly raises his head to glare at his opponent. A slight smile appears as his right hand lifts into the air above his head, then it lowers in a slow slashing motion, making an X in front of the opponent.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Mixed Martial Artist holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-0. He stands 6’4”, and weighing in at 255 pounds. He is from Tom’s River, New Jersey, he is “The Nature Boy” Jeff Bagwell!
[Jeff Bagwell is beating himself up in the corner before the fight begins, smacking himself in the face, body and legs to get ready for his debut.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-0. He stands 6’4”, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Santa Monica, California, he is “The Man with the Hand of Fate” Harmon Janssen!
[Harmon Janssen never loses focus as he glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Here we go, boys and girls. Our first Heavyweight bout of the night. A young buck against an old dog, who takes this one?
PATRICK CARSON
Well, if you look at our social media fan poll, it seems like the masses are behind “The Man with the Hand of Fate”. 65% voted in his favor, which says a lot of people still believe in this guy. Now it’s time to get things rolling as we take it to the action inside the cage. The referee for this bout is Willie Green. He checks off with each man one last time and now calls for the bell!
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The bell sounds and both fighters slowly close the distance. Jeff Bagwell fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. Harmon Janssen moves backwards and Jeff Bagwell taunts the veteran, asking him if he came today for fighting or running. Janssen fakes a punch and shoots a takedown! Bagwell didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground! Janssen is in open guard over Bagwell and he tries to pass to half guard. Bagwell can't prevent his opponent from passing and Janssen looks to work from half guard now. Janssen continues to work on the ground and manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.]
PATRICK CARSON
Harmon Janssen surprisingly takes this fight to the ground and looks to work in some ground and pound.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Bagwell may have thought this was going to be a stand and trade kind of fight, just goes to show the knowledge Janssen still has in the cage.
[Janssen continues in side mount but Bagwell tries to show some ground skills and puts Janssen in half guard. Bagwell attempts a triangle from bottom but Janssen slips out! Bagwell quickly turns his hips over and switches to the armbar! He's throwing everything at him! Janssen slips out and backs away to avoid danger. Willie Green halts the fight to stand up Jeff Bagwell. The fight resumes with both fighters standing and you can hear how the crowd agree with that decision.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Maybe it’s better for Janssen to keep this fight standing. Bagwell was throwing a lot at him and nearly stuck him in a couple of different submissions.
[Back on their feet, Jeff Bagwell fakes a punch and launches himself over Harmon Janssen to clinch. Janssen counters with a few punches and then backpedals out. Janssen fires back in with some tremendous strikes and a lot of those big punches are connecting! Bagwell circles out and tries to regroup. Janssen decides to launch some tentative punches to measure his distance. Janssen seems to be slowing the pace of the fight a bit and circles around his opponent.]
[Harmon Janssen goes with a looping right hand while Jeff Bagwell jumps back and jabs. That one hits but Bagwell seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange here. Janssen decides to launch some tentative punches to measure his distance but Bagwell fires back and Janssen takes the best of a brief punching exchange. Both fighters back out and then size each other up in the center of the cage. Janssen circles around looking for angles. He feint a body shot to get Bagwell to bite on it, and then Janssen puts some serious power behind an incredible Superman Punch! That shot hits Bagwell like a wrecking ball! Bagwell crumples to the mat and Janssen moves in to finish him. The referee jumps in and stops the fight!]
PATRICK CARSON
And this one is all over! Wow! Harmon Janssen comes in out of nowhere with a devastating Superman Punch and flatlines Jeff Bagwell!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
He’s still got it, Patrick! Janssen put everything behind that shot and it put Bagwell in another dimension!
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Janssen is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Bagwell 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 two seconds in the very first round, for your winner by knockout, “The Man with the Hand of Fate” Harmon Janssen!
[The crowd cheers once again as Janssen 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: Harmon Janssen by KO (Superman Punch) at 3:02 Round 1
Statistics: Harmon Janssen
Punches 10/13 (77%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 39 s
Statistics: Jeff Bagwell
Punches 2/6 (33%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 39 s
♫
DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER
THEY'RE ALL I NEED TO PLEASE ME
THEY CAN'T STIMULATE OR TEASE ME
THEY WON'T LEAVE IN THE NIGHT
HAVE NO FEAR THAT THEY MIGHT DESERT ME
♫
[The lights dim simultaneously on out in the arena as it plunges into darkness. "Diamonds From Sierra Leone" (Remix) - By Kanye West ft. Jay-Z begins to blare on out of the PA system across the arena. All eyes can be seen on the entrance area, as if on cue, out of nowhere Sebastian Stone whom otherwise is known as most famously as "The National Treasure" among the many other monikers he’s come to be known as, appears out in front of the Black signature customized Union GP logo curtains. As he does he can be seen wearing a custom made sleeveless jacket that can be seen having silver glitter scattered throughout it, across the back of the robe the words "The National Treasure" can be seen in Old English gold colored lettering which can be seen as a single spotlight shines down from above shines down upon him doing so, he can be swinging around to face the fans and can be seen looking very confident and very assured as he stands alone in the middle of the entrance aisle.]
[Stone stands in the entrance aisle as the arena soon comes alive as the pulsating white light disappears and the arena lights come back on. Stone can be seen oozing with nothing but confidence as he makes his way on down the entrance aisle, a gorgeous Cheshire smile on his face serving as the perfect statement to those looking on nearby. Stone slowly continues walking down the entrance aisle, as he does, he stops near the end of the aisle as various photographers come running up and began taking snapshots of him while he strikes a few poses. The photographers continue to snap photos of him as he slowly continues walking on down the entrance aisle soaking in all the love from the nearby fans of Union GP at ringside, various flashes continue to be seen going off around him.]
PATRICK CARSON
Making his way out now is one of the newest members of the Heavyweight Division, Sebastian Stone! From what we have gathered, Stone comes from a kickboxing background, but quite possibly the most notable thing about him is his flamboyant presence.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
He seems like a larger than life kind of dude. He surely knows how to play up the crowd, and knows how to make an entrance! I’m curious to see what he’s got in that cage, because he already has the personality, now let’s see if he has the skill set to back it up!
[As Sebastian continues down the aisle, his eyes begin to burn with intensity and hatred the closer he gets to the octagon. His body pounding with adrenaline and with bloodlust on his mind, he finally reaches cageside. Stone removes his pink feathered robe and faces toward the fight official to be inspected. Once he’s been cleared, he turns slightly to face the fans and blows a kiss to the female fans at cageside. He turns his attention back to the steps and methodically walks up and enters the cage.]
♫
MANY MEN WISH DEATH UPON ME
BLOOD IN MY EYE, DAWG, AND I CAN'T SEE
I'M TRYIN' TO BE WHAT I'M DESTINED TO BE
AND NIGGAS TRYIN' TO TAKE MY LIFE AWAY
♫
[“Many Men” by 50 Cent begins to play over the PA System and soon, the behemoth L.A. Brooks emerges onto the main stage. The crowd cannot help but cheer at the sight of the big man chiseled from stone, as he stands at the top soaking in the reactions. Brooks is swarmed by his team in all directions and soon the entire group begins to make the walk down the aisle toward cageside. ]
PATRICK CARSON
And now we have another Heavyweight fighter making his debut tonight, and boy oh boy, he’s got the intimidating factor on lock down! This guy is an absolute unit and from what we know, he’s got a kickboxing background that could put this entire division on notice in short order.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
A guy as big as him logically shouldn’t have the flexibility to do some of the things he does. I’ve seen some of his amateur tape, and let me tell you this right now, this guy will be a top contender if he continues to develop. Keep an eye on this guy!
[Once the group has made it to cageside, Brooks strips down to his fight gear and walks over to the fight official to ensure he is fit to fight. Once he’s been cleared, he gives a fist bump to each member of his team before stomping his way up the steps. When Brooks enters the cage, he throws his arms out wide and lets out a loud battle cry, which gets the crowd hyped up even more. Brooks heads over to his corner, shadow boxing along the way.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-0. He stands 6’3”, and weighing in at 241 pounds. He is from Los Angeles, California, fighting out of Legacy Performance Center, he is "The National Treasure" Sebastian Stone!
[Sebastian Stone doesn't look concerned about anything his opponent brings to the table.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-0. He stands 6’6” and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Lake Tahoe, California, he is "The Big Bad Kaiju" L.A. Brooks!
[L.A. Brooks is calm in his corner. He looks confident of his abilities here tonight.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
And we are all set to get this second Heavyweight fight underway where two competitors make their debut and work to get that first win under their belt. Only one will start off on the right foot, while the other will have to continue their search.
PATRICK CARSON
Both of these guys looks ready for war, Willy! The referee of the bout is Jordan Ripley. He checks off with each man one last time and calls for the bell! And here we go!
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The bell sounds and L.A. Brooks and Sebastian Stone touch gloves in the center to get this fight started. Stone looks to be in very good shape as he stays light on his feet, circling back and forth to keep his distance. Stone fires an unorthodox punch to Brooks's torso that hits its mark. Stone continues the flurry and launches a couples of jabs and then a big hook! Brooks blocks the combo and tries to circle around his opponent, looking for angles. Stone fails here and it's time for L.A. Brooks to fight back! Brooks launches a furious low kick that connects clean and it looks like Stone hyper-extended his left leg! Stone backs away from further danger and both fighters eventually circle back around to the center of the cage.]
PATRICK CARSON
L.A. Brooks has some serious power behind those kicks! That kick looked nasty!
[Brooks looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Sebastian Stone's punches. A left hook from Brooks just grazes the chin of Stone as he tries to duck. The two then step into each other and exchange wildly, both landing some shots but it’s without much steam behind them. Both fighters back off and then size each other up in the center of the cage.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Sebastian Stone doesn’t look like he’s afraid to stand and trade! He’s got a lot of confidence and some obvious strength in those hands as well.
[A solid front kick from Stone gets blocked by Brooks and the two circle around the center of the cage once again. Brooks fires off a lightning fast low kick, but Stone was ready for that one and checks the kick. Stone moves in looking for some grappling action. L.A. Brooks struggles a bit before breaking Stone's attempt of grappling. On the break off, Stone launches a stiff jab! It barely hits Brooks' face but it seems like one finger has poked his eye! Jordan Ripley saw it! Ripley takes one point away from Stone for eye poke. Jordan Ripley halts the fight to give Brooks time to recover. The crowd gives a mixed reaction to the point deduction but before too long, Brooks seems to be ready to fight again. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.]
PATRICK CARSON
I don't know if that one was intentional, but referee Jordan Ripley thought it was enough to take a point away.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
That could be costly if this fight goes the distance, Patrick. Stone has got to be careful out there with the fouls, Ripley is known to be quite strict out there.
[Back in the action, both fighters circle around. A brutal high kick from Sebastian Stone connects and you could hear the impact from the back seats! Brooks moves backwards and Stone is asking him if he came today for fighting or running. Both fighters circle around the center of the cage. You can hear the excitement from the crowd beginning to grow. Another good front kick from Stone gets blocked. Stone misses a step and L.A. Brooks sees an opportunity to counter him! L.A. Brooks fires an unorthodox punch to Stone's torso that hits its mark. He follows it up with a solid leg kick but Stone checks it. Sebastian Stone paws at Brooks to measure his distance and Brooks answers with some solid punches! L.A. Brooks bull rushes in and launches a rapid series of punches, taking Stone from one end of the cage to the other!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Incredible combo from Brooks here and it’s got Sebastian Stone guessing!
[Brooks looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Stone's punches. Brooks measures the resilience of Stone's chin with an uppercut while Stone lands some great crosses.]
PATRICK CARSON
Stone has a small cut over his left eye which could really cause him some problems.
[Sebastian Stone launches a rapid series of punches that glance off Brooks. Both fighters circle around the center of the cage and size each other up. L.A. Brooks rushes in once again and just won't stop raining down punches! Stone may be in trouble! Brooks finishes off the combo with an incredible haymaker! You can see Sebastian Stone's head being snapped backwards! L.A. Brooks then fires off a middle kick that lands clean on the liver and Stone drops to the mat! The ref pulls off L.A. Brooks! Stone seems confused as the bell sounded, signaling the bout is over.]
PATRICK CARSON
And this one is all over! LA. Brooks finishes this one off with a devastating liver kick and Jordan Ripley stopped this fight before anymore damage could be done!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
You gotta protect the fighters first and foremost. Stone hit the mat instantly and anyone who’s a fan or studies this sport, knows a liver kick can end a man. Smart move from the ref, but it may not be the most favorable one.
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Brooks is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Stone 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 Jordan Ripley has called for a stop in this fight at four minutes forty seconds in the very first round, for your winner by technical knockout, "The Big Bad Kaiju" L.A. Brooks!
[The crowd cheers once again as Brooks 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: L.A. Brooks by TKO (Middle Kick) at 4:40 Round 1
Statistics: L.A. Brooks
Punches 26/31 (84%)
Kicks 2/4 (50%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Sebastian Stone
Punches 6/9 (67%)
Kicks 1/3 (33%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
[Savannah Skye stands by with a charming smile, a microphone at the ready.]
SAVANNAH SKYE
Ladies and gentlemen, here with me right now about to make her debut tonight is... Yasmine Ryan!
[The camera eases back in a wide shot to reveal one of UGP’s newest fighters Yasmine standing beside Savannah. The tall, young female returns her smile, her shoulders square with confidence.]
YASMINE RYAN
Thanks for having me, Savannah.
SAVANNAH SKYE
Yasmine, not only is this your first fight in Union Grand Prix but it’s also your first professional MMA fight ever. How are you feeling right now?
[Yasmine chuckles. If she’s feeling at all nervous, she hides it very well. Her words come out smoothly like someone who’s been seasoned to talk in front of the camera.]
YASMINE RYAN
Well, you know Savannah, I’m feeling— I’m feeling pretty good, to be honest. There’s always a first time for everything and although this is my professional debut, I’m treating it like any other competition I’ve been in before. I don’t overthink it, I just stick to the system. And the system has not failed me. Once I got the call that confirms my fight date, boom! Straight to camp and working my butt off! Plus, to get a spot in UGP is a dream come true. I’ve been preparing for a day like this, Savannah. So I’m definitely not gonna waste my opportunity. Oh no, I’m making the most of it and that is to win tonight.
[Savannah reacts impressed for the camera.]
SAVANNAH SKYE
Wow, nothing but confidence!
YASMINE RYAN
When you’ve been doing what I do your whole life, you shouldn’t waste moments like this by being nervous and scared. You just work hard, get out there to meet your opponent and do what you do best. Nothing less.
SAVANNAH SKYE
Speaking of opponents, yours tonight is Lea Sun, a Wushu expert. As you know, we’ve done a poll on Twitter to see who fans think will be victorious tonight and 68% of the votes go to you. Does that help you mentally in your preparation?
YASMINE RYAN
Honestly, I’m shocked at the response and also humbled. Lea Sun is a great fighter, despite her record here. As a practitioner of an Asian martial art myself, I have nothing but respect for her and I look forward to our fight very much.
SAVANNAH SKYE
I’m looking forward to your debut too. All the best out there, Yasmine!
YASMINE RYAN
Thank you, Savannah!
[Yasmine gives a firm nod before exiting the scene.]
♫
“JAGUH” BY ALTIMET FT DAN $HIV
BEGINS TO PLAY
♫
[The intro to “Jaguh” by Altimet ft Dan $hiv slowly begins to increase in tempo as the lights dim down. As the first verse begins, a single spotlight shines on the main stage, and Yasmine Ryan emerges from the back. The tall Malaysian is greeted with a roar from the crowd as she is flanked by her corner crew from either side of her. Yasmine looks focused yet confident in herself as she slowly makes the walk toward the cage.]
PATRICK CARSON
Heading out now is another newly signed fighter, Yasmine Ryan. Ryan has a background in Pencak Silat, an Indonesian martial art that is not too recognized. It utilizes full body striking along with grappling, so I would have to say that she is well versed in all phases of the fight game.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
In this day and age, you have to at least have a grasp in all aspects. Now, we’ll have to see if she is someone who likes to stand and bang, or someone who wants to keep the fight at close range and work to take the fight to the ground. She’s also trained in Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, so as of now, it’s a guessing game where she will want to take this fight.
[Yasmine Ryan makes it to cageside, where she strips down to her fight gear and walks over to the fight official to be inspected. Once she’s been cleared, she turns to her corner crew and gives each one a quick hug before climbing the steps. Once inside, she bounces on the balls of her feet and heads over to her corner.]
♫
"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
And now making her way to the octagon is a fighter who has been searching for her first victory in Union Grand Prix after two tough contests. Lea Sun has lost to both August Pope and Xabier Belazco, but it’s gone the distance, which is a silver lining to think about. She’s still relatively new to the fight game, and to go three rounds with two of the top contenders in a deep and highly competitive Lightweight Division really says a lot about her will.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
You said it best. I know it’s hard to find positives in a loss, and back-to-back losses can be very hard to dig yourself out of. However, Sun has been thrown into the fire against some of the best in the game early on and to go toe-to-toe with them does say a lot. Now, she goes up against a rookie MMA fighter, so I have to believe she has the advantage in this one.
[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.]
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 Pencak Silat Fighter holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-0. She stands 5’11” and weighing in at 155 pounds. She is from Subang Jaya, Malaysia, she is "Smoke" Yasmine Ryan!
[Yasmine Ryan glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Wushu Practitioner holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-2. She stands 5’4” and weighing in at 155 pounds. She is from Dalian, China, she is “The Lonely Warrior” Lea Sun!
[Lea Sun doesn't look concerned about anything his opponent brings to the table.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
And now we are all set and ready to go, Patrick. I mentioned about how I believe Sun has the advantage in this fight, but the fans don’t seem to agree at all. 68% of the fans that took our social media poll believe that the debuting Yasmine Ryan secures the win tonight.
PATRICK CARSON
Sometimes this sport doesn’t have a “what have you done”, but a “what have you done lately” perspective, and as we mentioned, going 0 for 2 in your first two professional fights is a funk that’s hard to get out of. We’re about to see who seals the deal and scores their first professional win. The referee of the bout is Herschel Warden. He checks off with each woman one last time and calls for the bell! And this fight is underway!
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The bell sounds and both fighters close the distance in the center of the octagon. Yasmine Ryan looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Lea Sun's punches. Sun fakes a punch and shows some good footwork moving aside. Sun steps in and launches a low kick that gets blocked quickly. Ryan is trying to counter now with a brilliant combination that forces Sun to try and defend better. A high kick from Lea Sun misses badly and she slips and falls to the mat!]
[Ryan is standing while Sun is on the ground on her back. Lea Sun doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet. She moves fast and now is standing. Back to the beginning! A high kick from Yasmine Ryan grazes Sun's head, but she seems okay. A right hand from Ryan makes Sun stumble back! Ryan jumps over her opponent and pushes her opponent against the fence in a plum position. Sun doesn't want to clinch as she ducks under Ryan and tries to move away, but Ryan pushes Sun forward and doesn't allow her to break the clinch.]
PATRICK CARSON
Yasmine Ryan is staying aggressive and keeping Lea Sun honest.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Good technique and timing.
[The fighters continue in the clinch. Ryan struggles and launches a few punches to Sun's head and it causes Sun to protect herself better. Sun tries to shrug her way out of the clinch but Ryan is determined and pummels through and manages to retain her position. Ryan is in good position and is looking to change levels for the takedown. Ryan catches an ankle and Sun is tripped to the mat!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Great takedown by Ryan but Sun is able to close her guard.
[Yasmine Ryan tries to better her position on the ground. She breaks the closed guard of Lea Sun and moves to half guard. Ryan continues to work and slides her knee across and gets to full mount now. Ryan tries to open up Sun with a few strikes with her right elbow. Some nice shots are landing and Sun is trying to block them with her hands. Ryan now launches a couple of elbows to the ribs and Sun is in visible pain. Sun doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet but she cannot do it because of Ryan's movements. Ryan positions herself and launches a barrage of punches to the ribs! Ryan is in control with some solid ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows! One, two, three! Sun's being punished here!]
PATRICK CARSON
Yasmine Ryan is in complete control of this fight and if Lea Sun doesn’t start defending herself better, the referee is going to call this one off!
[Ryan tries to keep her position as Sun struggles to posture up. Ryan is able to control the situation despite Sun’s efforts to escape from the full mount. Lea Sun tries to escape from the full mount once again but Yasmine Ryan is not caught off guard and moves to side mount to keep her superior position. Once she gets the position under control, Ryan looks to pass to mount again. She slides her knee across and achieves the full mount position! Tough spot for Lea Sun here.]
[Ryan tries to keep her position while looking to maybe begin some ground and pound. Sun tries to escape from the full mount once again, but Ryan moves to side mount once again. Ryan now shifts to north-south position and tries to finish with a choke! Yasmine Ryan has the choke locked in tight! Lea Sun has nowhere to go! The referee checks on Sun and sees that she is out! Herschel Warden breaks the lock and Lea Sun lies flat on the mat!]
PATRICK CARSON
And this fight is all over! Yasmine Ryan was in total control all throughout this round and puts Lea Sun to sleep!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Man that’s hard to watch. Lea Sun is not one to give up, and she’d rather get put to sleep than to tap. Big win for Yasmine Ryan here tonight!
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Ryan is swarmed by her corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Sun 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 Herschel Warden has called for a stop in this fight at four minutes twelve seconds in the very first round, for your winner by submission, “Smoke” Yasmine Ryan!
[The crowd cheers once again as Ryan 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: Yasmine Ryan by Submission (North South Choke) at 4:12 Round 1
Statistics: Lea Sun
Punches 0/1 (0%)
Kicks 0/2 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 142 s
Statistics: Yasmine Ryan
Punches 7/9 (78%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 2/3 (67%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 9/13 (69%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 129 s
♫
WHAT YOU CALL AN ICON LIVIN'?
START A RECORD LABEL, MSFTS JUST DID IT
NYLON COVER, FIVE MINUTES, WOAH
WE UP TOO HOT IN THE BUSINESS
♫
["Icon” by Jaden Smith begins to play over the loudspeaker and Josiah Euphrates emerges to the stage wearing his gray and yellow walkout fight kit with crew members from his camp following behind. Josiah bounces on his feet as he throws his hands in the air to hype up the crowd. SOon he starts making the walk down to the octagon, showboating along the way.]
PATRICK CARSON
Another fighter making his professional debut tonight, Josiah Euphrates adds some depth to a very stout Middleweight Division. From what we know, Euphrates is a solid all-rounder that has a focus on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
He’s very quick on his feet, which will be a good test against his opponent tonight who is also lightning fast. I’m curious how he holds up though. Our scouting reports show, like you said, is an all-round solid talent, but doesn’t really have that one factor that separates him from the rest of the crowd. So we’re gonna have to see if he had those intangibles that you just cannot measure.
[Once he makes it to cageside, Euphrates gets checked out by the fight official to ensure he’s fit to fight. Once he’s been cleared, he darts up the steps and stomps into the cage, giving out a loud battle cry before taking his corner.]
♫
NIGGAS BEEN COUNTING ME OUT
I'M COUNTING MY BULLETS
I'M LOADING MY CLIPS
I'M WRITING DOWN NAMES
♫
["Middle Child” by J. Cole bumps over the loudspeaker and Zion Momo’a emerges to the stage wearing his black and blue walkout fight kit with crew members from his camp following behind. Momo’a bobs his head to the music as he slowly makes the walk to the cage.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now making his way to the octagon is a guy who started his professional career off stringing several impressive wins together in multiple promotions. However, he comes in tonight riding a two fight skid against the top fighters in the division currently.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Momo’a was being touted as a top contender before falling to Robert Guilliman in the Championship Grand Prix Tournament semifinals at UGP 14, and then again to Aries Reed at the one year anniversary show UGP 15. However, look at this guy tonight! He’s put on some serious muscle! One thing that I feel like was hindering him was the fact he was always punching up in weight, giving up 5-10 pounds. I may not sounds like much, but when you’re hovering around that 175-180 pound mark and you’re facing world class athletes cutting 10-20 pounds, it makes a huge difference. Tonight he comes in right at the 185 pound limit, and I’m excited to see how he performs at this weight.
[Zion makes it to cageside where he strips down to his gear and gets checked by the fight official. Once he's been cleared, he jogs up the steps and explodes with a huge leap into the cage. Momo’a makes a b-line to his corner, where he leans into the fence a few times to hype himself up.]
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 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 0-0. He stands 6’1” and weighing in at 170 pounds. He is from Alexandria, Egypt, fighting out of the Life Gym, he is Josiah Euphrates!
[Josiah Euphrates glares 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 4-3. He stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Los Angeles, California, fighting out of the 36th Street MMA, he is “The Blasian Buzzsaw” Zion Momo’a!
[Zion Momo'a raises his fists in his corner. He seems confident.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
And now we are set and ready to get this first of three consecutive Middleweight bouts underway. This is probably the first time, certainly in Union GP, that Momo’a is not the smaller competitor. Will that work in his favor, or will the added weight slow him down?
PATRICK CARSON
There’s only one way to find out and we’re about to see it unfold! The referee for this bout is Dusty Whittaker. He checks off with each man and then calls for the bell! And here we go!
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[Zion Momo'a and Josiah Euphrates move forward as the bell signals the beginning of the fight. These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect as they circle around and key in any subtleties. Momo’a throws a couple of solid leg kicks and Euphrates winces a bit but keeps his focus. Momo'a follows up with a middle kick but Euphrates blocks it with his arm.]
PATRICK CARSON
Wow, that was loud! You could hear that impact from the nosebleed section.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Good thing Josiah read that well and was able to block it. That could have done some serious damage.
[Zion Momo'a spins around suddenly for a roundhouse punch but Josiah Euphrates ducks under and that just passes over his head. A high kick from Momo'a just glances off Euphrates. Both fighters continue to circle around now until they both decide to close in and engage in a wild exchange of punches! Both fighters whiff on any damaging blows and back out to regroup. Euphrates launches a kick to the body but Momo'a avoids it and lands flush with a counter hook! Momo'a then fakes a move to get Josiah to bite and then launches a liver kick! That kick almost wrenches Josiah Euphrates!]
PATRICK CARSON
Zion Momo’a connects with a brutal liver kick and I don’t know how Josiah Euphrates is still standing! We’ve seen a liver kick end a fight already tonight and I'm sure that Josiah will be sore tomorrow.
[Momo'a moves backwards to regroup and Josiah Euphrates is mocking him, asking him if he came today for fighting or running. The two step into each other and exchange wildly, with Momo'a connecting with a few solid punches. Momo'a throws a hook that hits its mark. Josiah tries to counter but fails and it allows Momo'a to land a solid head kick! Euphrates' nose is swelling after the punishment he received!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Woah! Momo’a with the head kick and Josiah looks like he’s hurt!
[Josiah stumbles over his feet to try and stay upright, but Momo’a rushes in with a monster right hand and down goes Euphrates! Zion Momo'a knocked him out cold! The medics pour in!]
PATRICK CARSON
And this fight is all over! Zion Momo'a really wanted to win this fight and has done it in impressive fashion!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Josiah Euphrates could not get anything going offensively. Zion kept the pressure on him from start to finish, and I’d have to say that added weight really put some scorching power behind those hands and legs! Great performance for Zion Momo’a to get back into the win column here tonight!
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Momo’a is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Euphrates 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 twenty-three seconds in the very first round, for your winner by knockout, “The Blasian Buzzsaw” Zion Momo’a!
[The crowd cheers once again as Zion 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: Zion Momo'a by KO (Punch) at 2:23 Round 1
Statistics: Zion Momo'a
Punches 6/11 (55%)
Kicks 7/7 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Josiah Euphrates
Punches 3/6 (50%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
[The camera cuts to a prerecorded promo video, first showing Travis Decker seated in an interview room.]
TRAVIS DECKER
This is the kind of fight I’ve wanted since I started training. Aries Reed is the #1 Ranked Middleweight for a reason.
[The camera then cuts to show a few of cut together Aries’s knockout victories, before cutting back to Travis.]
TRAVIS DECKER
He is a man I have wanted to fight since I stepped foot into UGP, and now I feel like I am truly ready for that fight. Everyone knows about how my fight against Zion went down, but since then I have taken out everyone put in my way.
[The camera then cuts to clips of Travis’s three dominating victories since then, then back to him again.]
TRAVIS DECKER
Aries made a statement in his fight against Zion, and you know he is looking to once again be in contention for the championship. This is my chance to put myself in that picture, and show that I am one of the best fighters in this division. My chance against Zion was taken from me, and I am going to do everything in my power to not let it happen again.
[The camera then cuts away.]
♫
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
Making his way to the octagon now is a Real Killa product who has been on a streak as of late after starting his professional tenure on shaky grounds. Travis Decker comes in winning his last three fights, with two submissions and one knockout victory.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
He’s really become a fan favorite, especially to the hardcore purist fans with his old school demeanor. Don’t get me wrong though, he’s not afraid to talk some trash, but he’s a very honorable fighter who’s respected throughout the industry. What I love most about this guy, he’s always looking and begging for fights, and from what I’ve been told, he actually requested this fight tonight with Aries Reed.
PATRICK CARSON
I think he’s ready to break through into that upper echelon in the rankings and really make a push for a title fight. You gotta respect that.
[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.]
♫
WHAT YOU CALL AN ICON LIVIN'?
START A RECORD LABEL, MSFTS JUST DID IT
NYLON COVER, FIVE MINUTES, WOAH
WE UP TOO HOT IN THE BUSINESS
♫
["Icon” by Jaden Smith begins to play over the loudspeaker and “The Silver Tongued Devil” Aries Reed emerges to the stage wearing his purple and silver walkout fight kit with crew members from his camp following behind. Reed looks hyped up and can seemingly be seen talking trash as he slowly walks toward the cage.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now we have one of the last remaining Slaughterhouse fighters in the pro circuits making his way to the octagon. A man who has built quite a resume but has yet to claim gold in Union, Aries Reed has firmly built himself as one of the top competitors in the Middleweight Division.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
In eight fights in Union Grand Prix, Reed has come up short just twice, between Cristian Bonanno and Robert Guilliman — the only two men to hold the Middleweight strap. Reed comes in on a nice rebound win over Zion Momo’a and is looking to build onto that here tonight.
[Once he makes it to cageside, Reed gets checked out by the fight official to ensure he’s fit to fight. Once he’s been cleared, he bear crawls 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 Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 4-3. He stands 6’2” and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Chicago, Illinois, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, he is “Ripcord” Travis Decker!
[Ferocious staredown given by Decker while Willie Green recites the rules.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 13-6. He stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Atlanta, Georgia, fighting out of Slaughterhouse Vegas, he is “The Silver Tongued Devil” Aries Reed!
[Aries Reed looks like he has been waiting for this fight forever.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
And we are all set and ready to roll for this second Middleweight bout of the night. In my opinion, I feel like Aries Reed has the advantage given his experience but the fans don’t see it that way. 61% of the fans that took our social media poll is behind Travis Decker in this one.
PATRICK CARSON
Surely it’s going to be an exciting fight, these two leave it all out there every time and the fans love it. Our referee for this bout is Willie Green. He checks off one last time with each man and calls for the bell! And here we go!
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[Aries Reed and Travis Decker touch gloves in the center to get this fight started! Reed studies his opponent looking for a hole in his defense as both fighters circle around the center of the cage. Reed fires an unorthodox punch to Decker's torso that goes wide. Decker is trying to counter now! Decker moves aside and launches a furious low kick that connects to Reed's thigh! Reed leans forwards and tries to grapple with Decker and after a brief struggle, both fighters are tied in a clinch. Decker pushes Reed away, trying to keep the fight at striking range but Reed doesn't want to break the clinch and pummels through to keep it.]
[Reed shows some dirty boxing skills as he punishes Decker’s ribs with a few punches. He scores a few hits before the pain makes Decker react and defend his side. Decker doesn't want to stay in the clinch, so he ducks under Reed and tries to move away but Reed pushes him forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch. Reed continues to throw some wild punches and Decker looks in obvious pain right now.]
PATRICK CARSON
I don't know how Decker is eating those punches like that! Those look brutal!
[Decker tries to Reed away to keep the fight at striking range but Reed clamps down and stays in the clinch. Reed continues his dirty boxing while holding Decker against cage. Decker is unable to defend himself and receives some punishing blows to the ribs. Reed continues with the body blows and the pain makes Decker react and defend his side. Reed is holding Decker against the fence with his fingers all over Decker's face. Decker looks discomforted and tries to struggle out, but Aries Reed took advantage of it and landed some big punches to the ribs once again.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Travis Decker is trying to break free from the clinch but Reed has a death lock on him. He’s got nowhere to go right now.
[Reed and Decker continue to pummel back and forth in the clinch. Decker keeps coming up short of breaking free while Reed continues to batter the ribs. Finally, Decker is able to shrug his way out of the clinch and circles away to regroup. Decker moves backwards and Reed is asking him if he came today for fighting or running. Reed fakes a punch and shoots a takedown but Decker sprawls and remains on his feet. Reed gets back to his feet and shows off some good footwork. He moves in to land some quick strikes and then backs away afterwards and Decker’s forehead is beginning to swell.]
[Reed looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Travis Decker's punches and Reed is on the receiving end of a great combo by Decker now. Reed throws a punch that finds an opening in the defense of Decker. Reed decides to launch some tentative punches to find his range but gets nothing from this exchange. Reed moves back and takes a deep breath. Reed moves back in and lands some nice punches and clearly outboxes his opponent in this exchange.]
[Some counter punches by Travis Decker land while he backpedals. Reed seems hesitant now, as if he would give the initiative to his opponent. Reed goes back to the body and punishes Decker's ribs with a couple of hooks. Reed fires an unorthodox punch to Decker's torso that goes wide, but then follows it up with some solid jabs that connects. Reed and Decker hear the ten second warning and decide to close in and engage in a wild exchange of punches! Brilliant combination from Aries Reed that forces Decker to try and defend better. Reed lands a nice one-two combination and the referee jumps in to separate the fighters as the buzzer sounds.]
PATRICK CARSON
Pretty one-sided round if you ask me. Aries Reed controlled the fight in the clinch and did some serious damage to Decker’s ribs.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
That’s gonna have a lasting effect on Decker. It’s much harder to breath and control your energy when you cannot take a full breath. Let’s see what kind of adjustments these two make here in the second round.
=========================================
ROUND TWO
=========================================
[The second round begins and quickly Reed measures Decker with his jab. Reed launches a flurry of punches but only manages to land glancing blows. As the fight continues it seems that Aries Reed is taking the best of the fight. Reed goes to the body back to the body and continues to punish Decker's ribs with a couple of hooks.]
PATRICK CARSON
Decker ribs are getting hammered, they’re looking bad out there!
[Solid shots from Aries Reed to the body continue and you can clearly see Decker does not like the spot he is in. A bone shattering straight right hand from Aries Reed lands and Decker is going to have a big headache after that blow! Some nice shots from Aries Reed are followed up that keeps Decker guessing. Aries Reed goes with a looping right hand while Travis Decker jumps back and jabs. Decker seems staggered and Aries Reed runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses!]
[Reed launches a flurry of punches but only manages to land glancing blows. Aries Reed is measuring Decker with his jab to find his range. Decker launches a couple of jabs that are answered by Reed with a stiff cross! Solid exchange here! Reed launches some tentative punches and he takes the best of a brief punching exchange. There is a small laceration on the bridge of Travis Decker's nose now and Reed steps backwards seemingly to cool down the fight a bit.]
PATRICK CARSON
Aries Reed is on his A-game here tonight. His boxing prowess is on full display here tonight.
[Aries Reed fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. Reed is measuring Decker with his jab before launching a hook to the body that crushes Decker’s ribs! He’s holding his side after that shot. A right hand from Aries Reed makes Decker stumble back! Reed rushes in and pushes his opponent forward with double underhooks! Decker tries to push Reed away to keep the fight at striking range but Reed holds on. Reed pushes off of Travis Decker and starts launching a flurry of hooks and body shots! Decker stumbles backwards but Aries Reed chases him and continues the rain of blows! Willie Green is asking Decker to defend himself! Willie Green jumps in between the fighters and stops the punishment for Decker!]
PATRICK CARSON
That’s it! It’s all over! Aries Reed suffocated Travis Decker with a flurry of punches and ends this one!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Decker could not intelligently defend himself and the referee had no choice but to call an end to it. What a night for Aries Reed, wow!
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Reed is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Decker 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 thirty-five seconds in the second round, for your winner by technical knockout, “The Silver Tongued Devil” Aries Reed!
[The crowd cheers once again as Reed 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: Aries Reed by TKO (Punches) at 3:35 Round 2
Statistics: Aries Reed
Punches 45/61 (74%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 18/27 (67%)
Takedowns 0/1 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Travis Decker
Punches 10/14 (71%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
♫
YEAH, I'MA GO FUCK THAT BITCH
I'MA GO THRASH THAT BITCH
SHAWTY GON' SUCK THIS DICK
SHAWTY GON' SUCK THIS DICK
♫
[“R.I.P.” by Playboi Carti thumps over the loudspeaker and Asher Jrue emerges to the stage wearing his grey and yellow walkout fight kit with crew members from his 9th World camp following behind. Jrue has a relaxed look on his face as he sways back and forth down the aisle.]
PATRICK CARSON
Alright ladies and gentlemen, we are set to begin our final Middleweight fight of the evening, and it’s our co-main event! The rematch between Asher Jrue and Navorro Williams has been an enticing one to see. In their first encounter, no one expected Asher to put on a clinic against the former CGFC and IJPW champion, but man did he impress and put himself on the map!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I think the consensus was that we were going to see a grappling chess match, but Jrue decided to come in and throw hands. He did finish it off with a leg lock submission, but not after battering Williams for three rounds. I think we know Asher can hold his own in any phase of the fight game, so we’ll just have to see how the fight flows.
[Jrue 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'M, I'M, I'M, I'M
I'M OUT OF MY, OUT OF MY MIND
OUT OF MY FUCKING MIND
I'M, I'M OUT OF MY, OUT OF MY MIND
OUT OF MY FUCKING MIND
♫
[The lights dim as "Out of My Mind" by B.O.B feat Nicki Minaj plays with a loud boom all throughout the arena. Coming out in his THRONE MMA gear the 'WATCH THE THRONE' written in eccentric gold lettering over his black hoodie. The sleeves of the hoodie are tied behind his back looking like a straight jacket which has him keeping his arms down at his sides. His THRONE MMA training staff around him as Navorro Williams steps forward with his head down and covered by the hood of the hoodie. B.O.B keeps his flow going as Navorro steps forward slowly with his head still down until... "If these niggas go dumb, I go to the mental facility See, man I'm so out there, I slap fives with E.T." (SLAP!!) Williams head immediately shoots up at the slap looking at the closest camera in front of him with his face covered with a Hannibal Lecter type of mask as his eyes are the color of solid gold. The contacts play right into the insane way his eyes roll left to right with SoVo glaring his teeth under the mask. Navorro buys into the moment being the off-kilter character he's known to be while smiling wildly heading to the cage.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now the Throne MMA product makes his way to the octagon. To say that Navorro Williams has not had a good outing in Union Grand Prix would be an understatement. He won his debut fight in a five round split decision over Jeremiah Ford, but has since lost three straight.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
It’s been tough to see a guy like Vo, who has done so much in this sport, go through such a rough patch. However, it’s nothing that will deter him away from competition. Hopefully tonight he’s fixed the mistakes he made in his first fight with Jrue and puts on a much better performance.
[His head knocks left to right erratically looking around at the fans as he reaches the pad in front of the cage where his team starts taking off all of his gear and his gold/grey vale tudo shorts are checked by the Union GP staff. The vaseline is spread along his face, he exposes his 'VODADDY' black/gold mouthguard, and he gently taps his cup to enter the cage to the boos he loves and adores.]
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 Middleweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 2-1. He stands 5’11”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Miami, Florida, fighting out of the 9th World Performance Institute, he is “Simba” Asher Jrue!
[Asher Jrue looks calm but knows he has a tough fight coming up.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 17-8. He stands 5’10” and weighing in at 175 pounds. He is from Las Vegas, Nevada by way of Washington D.C. and New Orleans, Louisiana, fighting out of Throne MMA, he is “Warrior” Navorro Williams!
[Navorro Williams looks like he's feeling the pressure.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Alright ladies and gentlemen, we are all set for the Co-Main event bout. A lot of people are pinning this to be a contender fight… Winner faces Guilliman. I don’t think anyone would not like either of those possibilities.
PATRICK CARSON
I agree. Who wouldn’t want to see either of these guys against The Primarch? I want it! They want it! Guilliman wants it! So let’s get this fight started, shall we? Our referee for this Co-Main Event bout is Jordan Ripley. He checks off with each man one last time and calls for the bell! And here we go!
[The bell rings to begin the first round, and Navorro Williams quickly shoots in with a single leg on Asher Jrue’s right leg. Jrue resists at first, but loses his balance eventually and falls to his back. Navorro passes into side mount, but Jrue recovers his half-guard before Williams can make much progress. Navorro postures up and works to pass his leg through Jrue’s half-guard, toward mount, but Jrue tightens his grip around Navorro’s leg and catches his head, pulling him into a tight half-guard once again.]
[Jrue shrimps out before Navorro can steady himself, and returns to full guard! Navorro tries to posture up, but Jrue blocks his movement and tries to reverse position--eventually turning Navorro over, and taking full mount! He snatches one of Williams’ arms, going for an armbar, but Navorro breaks the lock before Jrue can get it extended and pushes away, eventually getting back to his feet and beckoning for Jrue to comes up, but Jrue stays on his back. The fans start to get impatient, as referee Jordan Ripley halts the fight to stand Jrue up.]
PATRICK CARSON
This is what we expected to see from these two. A grappling battle with two of the best in this division!
[When the fight is restarted, both men engage in a wild exchange of strikes--Williams’ largely misses, but Jrue connects with a few punches. Williams sways to the side, looking for angles and throwing a few jabs, but Jrue counters Navorro’s jabs with a slick combo of his own that connects on his opponent’s chin. With Navorro seemingly rocked, Asher Jrue shoots in for a single leg, but Navorro jumps backwards and frees his leg before Asher can take him down.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Nice sprawl to stuff the takedown. Great awareness from Navorro there. This is already shaping up to be a chess match in there.
[Defend yourself at all times becomes relevant, as Navorro turns around. Right into a powerful right hook! Navorro is knocked off balance and slips to the ground. Jrue jumps into Williams’ guard, passing into half-guard before Navorro fully realizes he’s doing it. However, Navorro’s quickly able to return to full guard. Movement on the ground is countered on both sides of the fight, before Jrue catches Navorro off-guard, and manages to pass all the way to mount! Navorro tries to shrimp out back to half-guard, but Jrue keeps his control and remains in mount.]
PATRICK CARSON
And a big right hand there puts Asher back in the driver seat of this fight.
[Navorro bucks his hips to try to unbalance Jrue, but Jrue keeps his mount and switches his hips to an armbar! Navorro again escapes before the hold can be fully extended, stacking Asher up and pulling his arm free before backing away. Jordan Ripley steps in to stand Asher up again, which the fans clearly agree with.]
[Asher uncorks a quick combination, that forces Navorro to stay on his toes to defend, but he’s able to prevent any damage from the punches. Navorro pushes forward this time, but Asher catches him with a quick uppercut! Navorro’s head snaps up, and Jrue shoots in for a single leg takedown on Navorro’s left leg. He tries to finish the takedown, but Navorro shows off his balance and pushes Jrue away to remain on his feet.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Navorro stuffs another takedown! Nice job right there.
[A right hand from Asher, followed by a strong hook to the body, connects hard on Williams. Asher throws a shovel hook, which tags Williams as well. Jrue pushes his way forward, into a bodylock, and tries to take the fight to the ground, but Williams struggles to resist the takedown and eventually prevents it. Asher takes one step to the side then shoots a sloppy single leg, but Navorro breaks free of the grip and has a chance to counter! Navorro tags Asher with a body kick, but it’s not the most powerful strike.]
[Jrue moves in to try to clinch, but Williams pushes him aside and moves backwards. Asher comes back with a straight right hand that stuns Williams! He’s going to have a big headache after that blow! Navorro throws a few sloppy punches, which force Asher onto his bicycle, but he’s able to land a couple counter punches. Jrue punches his way into the clinch, eventually catch one underhook and pushing Navorro up against the cage! Navorro tries to push away, but Jrue keeps his clinch, pushing Navorro back against the cage. The buzzer eventually sounds to end the round, and Jordan Ripley steps in to separate them.]
PATRICK CARSON
Solid action from both fighters here in the first round. A bit of a feeler, but both made some claims to win the round. What do you think, Willy?
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Navorro was able to stuff several takedowns and slip out of any submission attempts, but Asher executed a lot more offense and was able to land some solid strikes in. I think I go 10-9 Jrue here, but what do I know, right?!
[The horn sounds to begin round 2, and Jrue rushes forward into a double-leg takedown, trying to get the fight to the ground. Navorro’s able to sprawl and prevent the takedown, though, and Asher’s rush catches up with him--Navorro has a chance to counter, which he takes advantage of with a crushing right hand! Jrue’s head whips to the side, and Navorro shoots in for a single leg! He sweeps Asher’s far ankle from under him, and trips him to the mat, but Asher recovers his guard!]
PATRICK CARSON
Navorro sprawls to deny another takedown and capitalizes with a quick tag and takedown of his own!
[Asher tries to improve his position — and eventually reverses the position, catching full mount over Navorro! Jrue fakes a few punches, which Navorro bites on, and Jrue again catches his arm for an armbar! Williams is able to lock his hands and block the grip, stacking Jrue up and slipping his arm free. He passes Jrue’s legs and takes side control over Asher! Asher’s able to recover his half-guard, then after a bit of struggle, his full guard, locking it up to keep Navorro tight. Navorro tries to posture up, and Jrue takes advantage of the effort, reversing position back into mount!]
[Jrue is determined to get that armbar, reaching for it again--but Williams is smart enough to avoid. He’s not able to escape the mount, though, despite his effort. Asher’s able to keep his position, despite William’s struggles. During the tussle, Asher catches Williams’ left arm, pinning it to the mat and setting up a kimura! Williams struggles against the hold, even as Asher’s able to get a better angle for it...but eventually, Navorro frees his arm! Jrue switches his position and spins for another armbar, but Navorro again avoids the hold, escaping mount this time, but Jrue is able to catch him in guard.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Asher is throwing everything at Navorro on the ground, but Vo keeps finding a way to slip out. That’s some top level insight.
[Jrue overhooks one of Navorro’s arms and tries to lock in the armbar that way, but Williams quickly pulls his arm free. Jrue uses that movement to make some space, then reverses his position back on top of Navorro, into full mount! It’s only for a moment, though, before Navorro escapes back to full guard. Asher tries to pass to half-guard, but Navorro struggles to prevent it--and he succeeds, at first, but eventually Asher passes into half guard. Navorro’s quick to work to recover his guard, and eventually manages to lock his legs around Asher once again.]
[Jrue uses his wrestling skills to escape the closed guard, making a few tentative moves to bait Williams before jumping to side mount! He doesn’t stop there, though, moving to North-South position and trying to catch a choke, but Navorro’s able to escape the choke easily, turning Jrue over. Jrue recaptures his guard, again working to turn Navorro over, and taking mount once again! Jrue again goes after that arm, but Navorro breaks the lock before he can get it. Navorro’s corner scream for him to stand up, but Jrue keeps his composure and his position, eventually passing his arm over Navorro’s shoulder and locking up an Americana! Navorro’s able to free his arm before Asher can get it locked up, but the threat is very much there.]
PATRICK CARSON
Asher Jrue continues to try and catch Navorro in a submission with just about everything. This is a masterful BJJ battle here.
[Navorro takes advantage of Jrue’s focus on the submissions, and manages to hip away and recover his guard. Jrue tries to catch an arm triangle, but sloppy technique in the wrong position makes it easy for Navorro to slip free. Jrue passes into half-guard, before pinning Navorro’s arm to the mat again, going for another Americana! Navorro prevents the hold once again, moving to recover his guard, but Jrue steps over his leg and passes into full mount! Navorro locks his hands around Jrue’s torso, and despite a few weak punches to the midsection, eventually Jordan Ripley stands the fighters up due to inactivity.]
[Jrue comes out of the restart swinging, tagging Williams with a jab and a quick uppercut, followed by a strong hook that leaves Williams stunned. Jrue swings for the fences, and tags Williams with a powerful uppercut, followed by a one-two combination! The punches are landing solidly, but not doing as much damage as it might look, and Jrue’s burning a lot of energy trying to finish Williams, who doggedly stays on his feet. Jrue moves a step back, taking a deep breath before the horn sounds, and Jordan Ripley steps in to end round 2.]
PATRICK CARSON
Great finish to the second round and another nail biter overall. The first two rounds were very similar, Willy, do you give this one to Asher again?
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
It’s hard to say in all honesty. Navorro Williams started and finished strong, which is an improvement from the first round in my opinion. I wouldn’t be surprised if they gave this one to Williams. But so far it’s been too close to confidently call, so I think these guys are going to look for the finish in this last round and not leave it up to the judges.
[The horn sounds for round 3, and Navorro tries something particularly cheek--he rolls for a kneebar on Asher’s right leg, while he’s still standing! Jrue is caught completely off guard, and Williams is able to wrap up a kneebar, but Jrue manages to step out of danger. Rather than wait for him to stand up, Jrue jumps into Williams’ guard! Williams didn’t see it coming, and Jrue is able to go for a leglock of his own--a straight ankle lock! Williams prevents the hold from getting caught the first time, then resists a second attempt, before moving for an ankle lock of his own! Jrue frees his leg first, relieving the pressure on his lock on Williams as well, and instead moves to pass into half-guard, before jumping free into side-mount!]
PATRICK CARSON
Navorro Williams starts this final round with an innovative kneebar and we go back to the ground game battle.
[Jrue makes the most of his advantageous position, catching a kimura on the far side, but Williams is able to free his arm. Jrue spins for an armbar, but he over-commits and Navorro’s able to break the lock easily! He lands a few punches to Jrue’s ribs from underneath, but they don’t do much damage. It’s more of a ruse than anything, though, as Navorro spins to get his legs underneath him--but Asher’s able to catch him in a guillotine as he moves! He never quite gets the choke locked in, though, before Navorro frees his head and gains top control!]
PATRICK CARSON
Asher Jrue continues to look for the submissions and keeps coming up just short.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I think it might be an ego thing. He battered Navorro with strikes in their first fight, so maybe now he’s trying to beat him in another way. Cocky? Maybe, but I like it.
[Navorro throws a few punches to Jrue’s ribs, trying to pass to side-mount, but Jrue counters with a desperation triangle choke! Navorro cuts to the side and is able to pass to side-mount this time! Jrue tries to move back to guard, but Williams catches his leg in the process and tries to lock up a kneebar! Jrue struggles to free his leg, but eventually manages to kick himself free. Navorro gets back to his feet, but Jrue stays on the ground--until Jordan Ripley halts the fight to stand him up.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
It’s go time now! Leave everything out there!
[Jrue steps in to try to clinch, but Navorro’s able to push him away and keep the fight at the striking range. Jrue throws a hook to the body, but Navorro swims to the side and looks for a counter. Jrue throws a one-two combo, but Navorro’s able to deflect it. Jrue uses the motion to push forward and manages to get both underhooks, backing Navorro against the cage. Jrue catches Williams with a few strikes to the midsection before dropping down for a double-leg takedown! Williams is able to block the takedown, though, forcing Jrue to return to the clinch.]
[Jrue breaks his clinch and swings a reverse elbow, but Williams avoids it and moves out of danger--for a second. Jrue throws a flurry of punches with Navorro trapped in the corner! He tries to push away from the position, eventually managing to deflect Asher’s punches and circling away. Nice job escaping that position, despite the damage.]
PATRICK CARSON
Asher is teeing off on Navorro right now! This could be it!
[Jrue throws a crisp uppercut, followed by a stinging jab that connects and stumbles Navorro backward. He moves in for another clinch, but Navorro moves to the side to avoid the clinch. Jrue counters the movement with a hook the body that crunches against Navorro’s ribs! He shoots for a single-leg takedown, but Navorro frees his leg and prevents the takedown. Asher stays on the offense, throwing a straight right that Navorro deflects and counters with a stinging leg kick. Another follows, but it gets checked this time.]
[Jrue pushes forward, catching double underhooks and backing Navorro up against the fence. He launches wild punches at Navorro’s ribs that have referee Jordan Ripley looking concerned, but before anything can come of it, the horn sounds and the fight ends!]
PATRICK CARSON
And that’s the end! This one goes the distance and we’ll take it to the judges scorecards. What do you make of it all, Willy?
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
A lot of good things came from both fighters, but I think this one goes to Asher Jrue once again. Even though all of his takedowns got stuffed, he stayed aggressive on his feet, continuously throwing hands; and on the ground, constantly looking for the submission. I’m anxious to see how the judges score it, you can never assume they saw what you saw.
[The crowd explodes into cheers as the referee separates the fighters and signals them to head back to their corners. Both men get cleaned up by cornermen and medics while coaches pep them up. Once the masses disperse, 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 have scored it 30-27, for your winner by Unanimous Decision, “Simba” Asher Jrue!
[The crowd cheers once again as Jrue 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
Navorro Williams 9 9 9: 27
Asher Jrue 10 10 10: 30
JUDGE MAX CARVER
Navorro Williams 9 9 9: 27
Asher Jrue 10 10 10: 30
JUDGE OZZIE SEBASTIAN
Navorro Williams 9 9 9: 27
Asher Jrue 10 10 10: 30
Winner: Asher Jrue by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Navorro Williams
Punches 4/8 (50%)
Kicks 1/4 (25%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 2/3 (67%)
Submissions 2/2 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 444 s
Statistics: Asher Jrue
Punches 27/36 (75%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 8/16 (50%)
Takedowns 0/7 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 21/21 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 419 s
♫
TOAST, YEAH
SAY WE A COME IN WID A FORCE (YEAH)
BLESSINGS WE A REAP PON WE COURSE INA HAND FULL
♫
[As “Toast” by Koffee plays throughout the arena, Zari Aliyah slowly makes her way out while shadow boxing with her corner crew following close behind. Aliyah doesn’t show much emotion as she continues her walk, but occasionally tags a few stretched out hands from the crowd.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now making her way to the octagon is a woman who has been scratching and clawing at an opportunity like this for a very long time, and now tonight she gets her chance. Zari Aliyah has been a prominent figure in mixed martial arts, and being just twenty years of age, has only just begun her professional career.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Zari’s story is an incredible one. She was born in Swetes and grew up going on the path less taken. However, she moved right here to Montreal and that’s when she her interest in martial arts really started to flourish. She holds a special place in her heart for this area and I can’t think of a better way to finally reach that title fight she’s been working so hard for in her second home.
[Zari makes it to cageside and gets checked by the bout official. Once cleared, she races up the steps and heads straight to her corner, bobbing and weaving along the way. When Aliyah enters the cage the arena is about to explode! She knows for sure that the fans are with her tonight.]
♫
CALIFORNIA LOVE!
♫
["California Love" by Tupac ft. Dr. Dre bumps over the loudspeaker and Lauren Moore emerges to the stage wearing her pink and black walkout fight kit with crew members from her Real Killas camp following behind. Moore can’t help but flash her signature smile as she slowly trots down the aisle toward the octagon.]
PATRICK CARSON
And now — the final walkout of the night. Here she is, the inaugural Bantamweight Champion, “L-Mo” Lauren Moore! Moore has really hit her stride and has become a dominant competitor since moving to the newest division in Union GP. She had an up-and-down stretch at 155, but when you look back on it, her only losses came from current and former Lightweight Champions and a fighter shrouded in controversy. Considering she was giving up upwards of 20 pounds, she really impressed especially given the circumstances.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Now that she’s at a more natural weight class, Moore has continued to impress and amaze with each fight. Her fighting style has become some to marvel, using her wrestling background to suffocate and pressure her opponents to take them to the ground and then just smash them with some brutal ground and pound. She beat Dallas Meechan to capture the strap and Meechan knocked Zari out of the Grand Prix in the opening round, but I think you can throw the MMA math out the window for this matchup.
[Moore makes it to cageside where she disrobes and hands off her walkout kit to a cornerman so she can get checked out by the fight official. Once she’s been cleared, she gives a hug to each one of her corner crewmen before racing up the steps and jogging a few laps around the cage before posting up in her corner.]
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 and it’s for the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Championship! Introducing first, the challenger, fighting out of the blue corner, a Muay Thai Fighter holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 6-2. He stands 5’7” and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Swetes, Antigua and Barbuda, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, she is “Zealous” Zari Aliyah!
[Zari Aliyah smacks her calves, thighs, abs, and shoulders to hype herself up before throwing her fists high in the air. She looks like she has been waiting for this fight forever.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Freestyle Wrestler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 5-3. She stands 5’7”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Irvine, California, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, she is the reigning, defending, undisputed Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion of the World, “L-Mo” Lauren Moore!
[Lauren Moore raises her fists high in the air in her corner. She seems focused and ready as she bounces on the balls of her feet.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
It’s a Killa Party here in Montreal ladies and gentlemen! Listen to this crowd, they are going absolutely crazy right now! This is the fight we all came to see. Which Killa walks out with the Bantamweight strap?
PATRICK CARSON
Flip a coin because these two are at the top level in their respective fields and know so much about each other because they train in the same building day in and day out! But now it’s time to get our main event bout underway! The referee for this title fight is Herschel Warden. He’s checking off with each woman one last time and now he calls for the bell! And here we go!
[The bell sounds and this crowd erupts! Lauren Moore and Zari Aliyah touch gloves in the center to get this fight started. Both fighters circle around to look for angles and Aliyah strikes first with a single leg takedown. Moore tries to fight it off but loses her balance and gets taken to the mat. Zari lands in side mount over Moore and quickly Moore tries to trap her in her guard. Aliyah is able to fend her off before sliding her knee across Moore and securing a full mount. Moore tries to roll out from the mount but Aliyah plants her leg to retain the position. The two pummel back and forth for a while to gain control, but neither one makes any advance. Suddenly Moore springs her hips up to try and escape, but Aliyah reads it well and shifts to side mount to keep control. Again both women pummel back and forth for control but neither one makes any progress. Eventually, Herschel Warden decides to stand up both fighters since there was not much action on the ground.]
PATRICK CARSON
Zari kicked things off with a nice single leg to take this fight to the ground but couldn’t manage to get anything going.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
That surprised the hell out of me. Zari does her best work standing up, and to willingly take this to the ground against a world class wrestler like Moore shows she’s not afraid of where this fight leads.
PATRICK CARSON
Not only that, that takedown looked crisp. You think she’s been studying Moore in the training room?
[Both fighters continue the fight on their feet and you can hear how the crowd agree with that decision. Moore circles around faking some moves to try and get Zari to bite. Moore then changes levels and shoots a single on Zari’s right leg, but she’s able to sprawl back just in time to stay on her feet. Moore quickly switches off of the single leg and pulls guard to bring Aliyah down. On the ground, Moore has her guard closed and tries to roll to reverse her position, but Zari uses her leg to keep her at bay. With Zari’s leg stretched out, Moore sees an opening and begins unloading on Zari’s ribs with some heavy blows, which you can clearly see Zari wincing in pain with each strike. Zari brings her leg back in to try and defend the body shots which allows Moore to try and roll again! Zari kicks her leg back out to keep her position, and Moore once again goes back to the body.]
[Zari decides to try and switch things up by freeing her leg and moving to half guard. She continues working and then gets to side mount. Moore tries to work in some ground game, but Aliyah uses her strength to keep her at a disadvantage. Aliyah looks to pass to mount now but Moore creates some space and scrambles up to her feet! Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing while the fans in the Bell Centre cheer them on.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I gotta say I’m impressed by Zari Aliyah’s ground work right now. I did not expect to see this.
[Back on their feet, Lauren and Zari circle their way back to the center of the octagon. Moore feints a move and quickly drops down with a single leg takedown. Zari is caught off guard and easily gets taken to the mat. Moore is in side mount and looks to mount but Zari takes advantage of her opponent's over commitment and traps her in full guard! Zari now tries to roll but Moore blocks her with her foot and then begins laying in some more body shots. Aliyah wraps her arms around Moore's arms and stops the punches. Lauren Moore eventually is able to slip her arms free, but right at that moment Aliyah rolls on the ground and reverses into a full mount over Moore! Once again, Lauren and Zari struggle back and forth for control while Moore is able to pop her hips and get to full guard. Not a lot of action transpires after this and Herschel Warden eventually decides to stand them up. As both fighters get to their feet, the ten second warning calls and the two decide to step in and exchange wildly. Both fighters are mostly hitting air and finally the referee steps in to separate the two as the buzzer sounds.]
PATRICK CARSON
Pretty interesting first round there, Willy. Zari Aliyah forgone her Muay Thai strengths and decided to try and out wrestle Lauren Moore. And to be honest, I think she did just that!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
She absolutely surprised me with her capability to hold herself on the ground. I think overall it was a close one, I wouldn’t be surprised how this round was scored one way or another.
[The second round begins and Moore and Aliyah circle around to the center of the cage. Moore grabs her opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground but Aliyah fights back and stands her ground. Moore fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside to gain some distance. Moore goes in again by the waist to try and take Zari down, but once again she’s unable to do it. Moore looks to be getting a little flustered as she moves in for a third time grabbing her opponent by the waist and trying to take the fight to the ground. However this time she succeeds!]
PATRICK CARSON
Lauren Moore looks like she’s thrown off her game a little bit and now trying to force the takedown. She got it eventually, but she needs to regain her senses in there.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
You start trying to force the situation and that’s when you get yourself in trouble.
[Moore is in open guard and Aliyah tries to move on the ground and shows Moore a crack in her guard which she uses for a big elbow! Aliyah’s head gets rocked and bounces off the mat! Aliyah tries to close her guard around Moore now but she’s not able to do it. Moore is now trying to better her position on the ground and launches a couple of elbows against Aliyah's ribs. Aliyah eats a couple of them but tries to reverse the situation. Moore switches it up with some punches to the body and Aliyah is defending them well. Zari launches a few weak punches back but Moore is able to block them effectively which Zari then decides to close her guard around Moore. The two once again jockey back and forth with no advancement developing, so Herschel Warden stands them back up.]
[Both fighters continue the fight on their feet and size each other up in the center of the cage. Lauren Moore comes in with some leg kicks but Zari Aliyah defends them with ease. Aliyah, showing some excellent timing, blasts Moore with a big counter right hook! Moore is caught off balance and slips to the ground! Aliyah is standing while Moore is on the ground on her back now. Moore tries to hit Zari with a kick to her knee from the ground but Aliyah dodges it. Aliyah fires back with a kick to Moore’s thigh and it connects with a loud pop! Moore kicks her legs trying to keep Aliyah away, but Zari comes back in with another snapping kick to the thigh. Zari Aliyah is taking out her mouthpiece to breathe and decides to move backwards and gestures for Lauren Moore to stand up. Moore cautiously postures up and is on her feet again.]
PATRICK CARSON
About halfway through this round and I don’t think there’s any question that Zari is in control right now.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
She’s keeping Lauren guessing out there and really hasn’t even opened up her striking game yet.
[Back on their feet, Aliyah moves in with a solid shot to the body and Moore clearly didn't like that. Aliyah follows up with a looping right hand while Moore jumps back and jabs. Moore seems staggered and Aliyah runs in to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses! Moore quickly changes levels and tries to take the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown, but Aliyah jumps back and frees her leg and then Moore decides to pull guard to bring this fight back to the ground. Zari tries to better her position on the ground as she breaks the closed guard and moves to half guard. Moore unloads on Aliyah's body with a couple of big punches from guard and Zari absorbs them with her ribs. The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. Herschel Warden tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.]
PATRICK CARSON
I would be surprised if the judges didn't see that round for Aliyah.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I agree wholeheartedly. Zari controlled the pace of the fight and has yet to allow Moore an opening to develop her offense. I think Moore needs to make some adjustments here in the third in order to swing things back in her favor.
[The third round begins and both fighters close the distance toward the center of the octagon. Moore shoots in for a single leg, but Zari quickly kicks her leg back and dodges it. Moore stands back up and throws a looping right hand while Aliyah jumps back and jabs. Moore seems wobbly and Aliyah runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses. Moore fires an unorthodox punch to retaliate but it goes wide and then the two circle back around to the center of the cage. Zari Aliyah jumps in the air and times up a perfect flying knee! Moore's mouthpiece flies out of her mouth and the crowd goes wild!]
PATRICK CARSON
OH! What a crushing shot!
[Moore stumbles back but then rushes back in and the two engage in a wild exchange of punches! Zari is getting the best of the exchange as she lands a few more blows. Moore fakes a move and moves laterally then shoots in for a double leg takedown but Zari sprawls back and manages to stay on her feet. Aliyah stays tight on Moore and gets her in a double underhook! Moore tries to break the clinch but Zari Aliyah launches a great knee when she finds a narrow opening! Moore stumbles back and manages to shrug her way out of the clinch and create some space to regroup.]
[Both fighters circle around as they size each other up. Zari fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. Zari launches a high kick but it just grazes Moore's head, and she seems unfazed. The Moore steps in and they both begin to exchange wildly without much steam behind their shots. Moore tries a sweep single but Aliyah was ready and shrugs off the takedown attempt. Aliyah spins around and tries a counter spinning back kick! She connects right into Moore’s ribs and it folds her over. Moore tries to push through the pain take the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown but Aliyah is able to stuff it easily.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Zari Aliyah is starting to run away with this one. She has completely shut down Lauren Moore’s takedowns time and time again.
[Lauren Moore looks to be slowing the pace of the fight a bit and circles around her opponent. She goes with a looping right hand while Aliyah jumps back and jabs. Moore stumbles and Aliyah runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses. Moore and Aliyah are engaged in a wild exchange of punches now! Moore tries to shoot in for a takedown, but once again Zari stuffs it. Moore tries to rebound and lands a couple of punches as Zari backs away. Moore goes in for one last takedown before the buzzer but gets denied once again. The referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.]
PATRICK CARSON
And the third round is in the books! I don’t think anyone would argue that Zari Aliyah wins this round. She has completely shut down any takedown attempts from Lauren Moore while sprinkling in some offense of her own.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
No doubt Zari won this one, and I’d almost argue she’s up in all three rounds. Moore may need to look to finish this fight with some of her ground and pound as we head into championship rounds.
[The fourth round begins and quickly Aliyah throws a low kick. She just grazes Moore’s thigh with a bit of sloppy technique. Aliyah goes for another low kick, but then in the blink of an eye, she follows up with a high kick that connects but Moore seems to brush it off. Moore fakes a punch and shoots a takedown but Aliyah sprawls and remains on her feet. Zari pushes her opponent forward and gets her in double underhooks. Moore goes for a foot sweep but fails to take Zari down and both fighters are still standing.]
[Zari Aliyah fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut and it lands square on Moore's chin. Moore goes for a sweep single but Aliyah was ready and shrugs off the takedown attempt. Moore launches some body shots and Zari winces a bit. Moore then grabs her opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground but again Zari keeps the fight upright and eventually breaks away from the clinch.]
PATRICK CARSON
The recurring theme continues as Moore simply can not execute any takedown attempts. She’s looking a bit lost out there.
[Moore looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Aliyah's punches. Moore then measures the resilience of Aliyah's chin with a crisp uppercut while Aliyah lands some great crosses. Moore fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. Aliyah cuts her off and opens up on Moore, raining down combinations! Moore's corner looks worried!]
[Zari launches a kick to the leg and Moore felt that one. She tries to shoot a takedown but you guessed it, Zari stuffs it and counters with a middle kick right below the ribs. Zari then fires off some punches and Moore reels back from the strikes. She tries to time up another takedown but could not follow through. Zari counters with a head kick that just grazes Moore. The two step into each other and exchange wildly and Aliyah is connecting with a few more punches.]
[Aliyah steps away from Moore and seems to be cooling down the fight a bit. Aliyah takes her mouthpiece out to take some deep breaths and she looks to be getting tired now. Zari Aliyah leans forwards and tries to grapple with Moore and control the tempo. Aliyah connects with a knee to the body while in the clinch! Moore tries to break the clinch but Zari launches a great knee when she finds a narrow opening! A solid combination from Lauren Moore connects in retaliation just before the buzzer sounds.]
PATRICK CARSON
That was a better round for Lauren Moore, but I’m not sure if it was enough to get the points.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
She’s trying to force her game plan and it’s just not working. She did a little better this round but I think it’s safe to say she needs to make some major adjustments. Fifth and final round here, it’s do or die time!
[The final round begins and Zari wastes no time landing some good body shots. She follows up with a looping right hand while Moore jumps back and jabs. Zari Aliyah runs in with a bunch of jabs and crosses and Moore is in a daze. Aliyah moves forward and gets her opponent in a textbook double collar thai clinch! Moore and Aliyah are cliched up against the cage. Moore steps in for a throw but Aliyah stays on her feet. Herschel Warden sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters. Moore tries to bring the fight to the ground but Aliyah won't budge, forcing Moore to pull guard.]
[Aliyah tries to improve her position on the ground as she sits on her knees and tries to break the closed guard. Zari fakes a few punches and then slips one leg to get the half mount. The two struggle back and forth before Zari slides her knee across and gets to full mount. Moore tries to roll to her side and trap Zari in her guard but Zari Aliyah rolls her over and takes her back! Aliyah tries to get a hook in now and things are looking bad for Moore! Aliyah has one hook in and keeps working! Aliyah has one hook in and is trying to get the second one! Nicely done! Aliyah now has two hooks in!]
PATRICK CARSON
The end may be near! Zari is in total control on the ground here and I don’t see a way Moore gets out of this situation!
[The two pummel back and forth but not much action is going on. 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. Aliyah moves aside and launches a furious low kick that connects on the thigh. Moore leads with a punch but Aliyah avoids it and lands flush with a counter uppercut! There is a small cut on Moore's right eye now. Aliyah then fakes a move and launches a liver kick! Moore fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside to avoid any further danger.]
[Zari Aliyah wants this win. She closes in and unleashes a brutal head kick! Moore stumbles back and Zari unloads with another one! There is a small cut over Lauren Moore's left eye and she seems hurt! She stumbles back on her heels and she's an easy target! Aliyah shoots in and hits a single leg takedown and brings the fight down to the mat. Aliyah pushes Moore against the fence and then tries to improve her position. Aliyah jumps and tries to free her leg! Moore doesn't allow this but Zari is able to get half guard here. Aliyah sits over her knees and pushes away Moore's leg! Aliyah is able to put away her leg and then jumps to side mount. Moore attempts to trap Aliyah in her guard but she keeps control and remains in side mount. The buzzer sound and the referee separates the fighters.]
PATRICK CARSON
And this one is all over! After five rounds, we will head to the judges scorecards but I think everyone in this building already knows the outcome. The crowd is cheering for their adopted hometown fighter right now and Zari’s expression can barely contain the excitement!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I think she’s done enough here tonight to win on points. However, we’ve seen some wild decisions in the past, so let’s just wait and see how the judges scored it.
[The crowd explodes into cheers as the referee signals both fighters to head back to their corners. Both women get cleaned up by cornermen and medics while coaches hype them up. Once the masses disperse, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, after five rounds, we go to the judges’ scorecards. The three judges score it 50-45, 49-46, and 48-47 for your winner by unanimous decision, AND NEW Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion of the World, “Zealous” Zari Aliyah!
[The crowd cheers once again as Aliyah has her hand raised in victory and the belt wrapped around her waist. Both fighters shake hands and hug as a gesture of mutual respect before the entire Real Killas crew pour into the octagon. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
JUDGE MIRANDA FRANCO
Lauren Moore 9 9 9 9 9: 45
Zari Aliyah 10 10 10 10 10: 50
JUDGE MAX CARVER
Lauren Moore 9 10 9 9 9: 46
Zari Aliyah 10 9 10 10 10: 49
JUDGE OZZIE SEBASTIAN
Lauren Moore 10 10 9 9 9: 47
Zari Aliyah 9 9 10 10 10: 48
Winner: Zari Aliyah by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Lauren Moore
Punches 10/26 (38%)
Kicks 0/3 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 2/25 (8%)
GnP strikes 14/25 (56%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 566 s
Statistics: Zari Aliyah
Punches 48/65 (74%)
Kicks 15/15 (100%)
Clinch strikes 3/3 (100%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/3 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 493 s