PEPSI CENTER
DENVER, COLORADO
JULY 26, 2020
PRE-SHOW
TENSLEY TAYLOR SINGS
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
Follow Tensley Taylor on Twitter
[The opening montage comes to a close and the feed transitions inside the Pepsi center in Denver, Colordao. Thousands of fans pack the building, where many have immersed themselves into the pandemonium and roar out with deafening cheers. With the uncertainty of victory or defeat looming, the aura is both intoxicating and tense.]
[The main stage, where the fighters scheduled tonight dawn their presence, is littered with carnage and destruction. A heavy fog sits stale, scaffolding strung in multiple directions, and the overall structure glowing red with fire, ash, and embers; something no fighter will soon forget.]
[The toll on both fan and fighter is enormous. The stage of a bloody war is set. The conquerors envision nothing but execution towards success, while the meek is flooded with doubt. Down in the trenches, we see the three amigos — Toussaint Harper, Carrick Price, and Jason Jackson — standing cageside in attention to officially kick off the night.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colorado for Boss Fight XX! And now, this opening 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 1-0. He stands 5’10”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Salt Lake City, Utah, fighting out of Red Rock Fighting, presenting “MK Ultra” Lars Levy!
[Lars Levy glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Still can’t with his name. MK Ultra huh? 2020 keeps it coming. *laughs* After seeing his debut I can’t help but applaud any ground guy daring to try it. Beating Jeremiah Ford with a Submission brings makes me smile. It makes me hope we see more. It makes me challenge the refs to let a fighter like Lars Levy go to work. I look forward to see how he starts this fight.
CARRICK PRICE
I don’t know a whole lot about the Red Rock Gym but I did see the couple fighters they’ve got in Everest and both of them looked talented in and of their own right. Does that carry over to a guy like Lars? Who knows but at the very least I think it’s clear he’s being cornered by a professional. His opponent likes to swing, though, so we’ll see which of these two clashing styles wins out here tonight. Lately, it’s seemed like a strikers game.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Brawler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 1-2. He stands 5’10”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Detroit, Michigan, fighting out of The Sym Gym, presenting “The Bruiser” Jethro Benson!
[Jethro Benson glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.]
CARRICK PRICE
I’ve seen Benson fight on a couple of occasions in the past, and while I don’t think there’s much room left there for him to grow and improve, you know what you’re going to get out of him. Sometimes that’s a good thing because it’s consistent. Sometimes it’s not because it makes you easy for your opponent to prepare for. We’ll see which is the case tonight.
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The bell rings and the fight gets underway! Upon approaching Levy, Jethro Benson wastes no time to throw a looping left hand, but MK Ultra moves aside and dodges. Levy tries to counter now! He grabs his opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground in a great takedown! Levy is now is in open guard over Benson, but the Bruiser works on the ground with his fingers over Levy's face. However, Levy shakes his head and continues fighting on the ground! Benson tries to close his guard around Levy, but he is not able to do it!]
JASON JACKSON
Using the ol’ smother technique. He’s gotta watch his fingers though and keep them away from the eyes of Lars Levy. Lars doesn't look phased on bit though.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
No but it is still early, if Benson thinks of doing that over the course of 3 rounds could make MK Ultra uncomfortable.
[After some more unsuccessful attempts by Benson to close guard, Lars Levy tries to pass to half guard. Jethro Benson can't prevent his opponent from passing. Levy looks to work from half guard, and after some more jockeying for position, he uses some of his skill by jumping out of Benson's guard. He moves quickly to side mount! Benson moves to trap Levy in his guard, but Lars keeps control and remains in side mount. At this point, owing to a lack of activity, the referee decides to stand the fighters up. Both fighters climb to their feet, and they continue the fight standing to the crowd’s cheering!]
CARRICK PRICE
Can’t believe I’m about to say this but I think that was actually the right call for once.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Don’t fall for it Price, I’m not. They are setting us up for the fall.
[Benson throws several good body shots, but Levy manages to evade them and goes to counter! He fakes a punch and shoots a takedown! Jethro Benson didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground! Levy capitalizes on the takedown by hammering Benson’s ribs!
JASON JACKSON
Superb wrestling being shown here by Lars Levy, followed by some vicious hammerfists to the ribs of the downed opponent. He’s going to be sore tomorrow.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
He is definitely looking to stick to his nickname here. Extremely heavy hands here!
[The clock says 1:50 in the 1 round. Benson again tries to close guard unsuccessfully, but soon he starts breathing heavily, tired after every effort put into escaping. More back and forth from both fighters on the ground, before the referee decides to stand them up one more time!]
CARRICK PRICE
Benson looks like he’s gassing early on. He’s got to find a way to keep Lars from putting him on his back. Nothing awful has come from it yet but the more tired you get the harder it is to keep your focus defending.
JASON JACKSON
Those body shots he ate didn’t help much either. Really sucks the wind out of a guy fuckin’ being repeatedly drilled in the body like that.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Lars has been putting a lot of ummph in those takedowns too. Everytime Benson is hitting the ground he’s getting damn near driven into the mat. Everytime they get back to the feet it looks like Lars will just throw him toward hell again.
[Once the fight is resumed, Benson tries to attack again, but Levy shows some dodging skills avoiding his shots. Benson misses a move and Levy tries to get some advantage… he shoots a quick hook that lands nicely on Benson’s face! Jethro Benson attempts to cut off Levy with punches, but Levy avoids getting cornered. Benson tries a nice one-two combination that gets blocked. He looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Lars Levy's punches, but soon finds himself on the receiving end of a great combo by Levy!]
CARRICK PRICE
Snappy combo there from Levy. He looks sharp no doubt.
[Levy pushes Jethro Benson and moves away from him, in an attempt to recover his breath. He goes with a looping right hand while Jethro Benson jumps back and jabs! Benson seems staggered and Lars Levy runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses! He attempts a sweep single, catches Jethro Benson's far ankle and trips him to the mat!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Lars looking like a man possessed. He’s been making the right choices through thsi entire round and Benson really has no answer for him! And the windup...
[After that slick takedown, Levy delivers a crushing shot to Benson's body! Benson holds his side, but Levy starts raining down punches on the downed Benson, and soon there is a small laceration on Jethro Benson's mouth!]
CARRICK PRICE
God damn he just busted his damn mouth. Nasty fucking ground and pound.
JASON JACKSON
What is it “The Thing” Used to say before pummeling someone like this? IT’S CLOBBERIN’ TIME!!! Indeed it is. Benson is getting fuckin’ gorilla smashed here. Harambe is alive ladies and gentlemen.
[The clock says 3:55! Lars Levy is in closed guard over Benson. Benson tries to stand up but Levy doesn't allow him! Benson launches a few weak punches that Levy blocks them. Levy gets his hips free and moves to half guard! Benson doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet, but can't do it because of Levy's moves! Again the fight comes to a standstill, and again the referee stands the fighters up!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Is it April 1st? What is going on here? Did Stripes get new contacts? I call shenanigans.
JASON JACKSON
In my opinion, another good stand up here. Hats off to Jordan Ripley.
[The referee gives the order to resume the fight, and upon approaching, Jethro Benson throws a nice punch that nearly tags Levy. But Benson soon gets sloppy and Lars Levy tries to bring the fight to the ground again! Benson goes down, but the bell rings before Levy can attempt to follow up! Jordan Ripley separates the fighters as the round concludes, and they shake hands as they head back to their corners.]
CARRICK PRICE
Looks like Red Rock is on the verge of taking home another W this weekend. Was an easy 10-9 round for Lars if not 10-8 but I don’t think any of that will matter. I doubt this one makes it the full three rounds if the next round continues this way.
JASON JACKSON
I’m on the fence. I honestly think it could be a 10-8. It was pure dominance by Lars. Benson is sucking air as he walks back to his corner. I don’t think he has another 5 minutes in him, let alone 15.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
I’m not on the fence, complete 10-8 Levy. I know a lot of people don’t like making that call but you can’t come in here as the main card battle and not amass a thing. Benson has to wake up and quick.
=========================================
ROUND TWO
=========================================
[As the fighters approach each other, Jethro Benson closes the distance with his opponent, wanting some action. He throws a hook that fails to land, and Levy punishes his ribs with a couple of hooks! Shovel hook by Levy and Benson gets tagged! His mouth is beginning to swell now!]
JASON JACKSON
Body-body-head. Textbook boxing. He busted ol’ boy right in the chops and the damage can be seen right away.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Somebody needs to grab a white towel and throw it exquisitely toward the middle.
[Benson goes back on the offense with a looping right hand while Lars Levy jumps back and jabs! Benson seems staggered and Lars Levy runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses! Levy and Benson circle now around the center of the cage. A punch from Jethro Benson whizzes past Levy, a subsequent right hand misses its target, and the two begin a wild exchange! Levy is connecting with a few punches! Benson goes to the body, but his punches graze Levy's arm. Benson clumsily fails here and it's time for Lars Levy to fight back! He launches a furious low kick, and receives a hard blow on his right leg! Benson now seems groggy and his leg seems to be hyper-extended. His movements do not seem coordinated!]
CARRICK PRICE
He’s done. Lads out on his feet already. Jordan needs to stop this fight right now but he’s letting them go.
JASON JACKSON
Well to be honest, the man *is* still on his feet, and he *is* still fighting so Jordan is doing his job here. It’s Benson’s corner that is failing him. They know their fighter is getting tuned up in here and this is their responsibility to stop. Throw in the towel. Fight another day.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
I don’t know if this is lack of preparation on Benson’s side or if the matchmakers may want to look into skill level difference of these two men. With Everest having it’s first highly anticipated and successful round one fights these first two days Benson could possible benefit from bumping down. He’s not ready.
[Lars Levy paws at Benson, and Benson swings ineffectively. Another exchange, and Levy gets the upper hand! Benson misses a punch and Lars Levy looks to counter! He catches Jethro Benson's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Levy is in closed guard over Benson, the latter tries to roll on the ground, but Levy uses his leg to keep his position! He tries then to get some advantage after his opponent’s missed move, gets his hips free and moves to half guard! Lars Levy isolates Jethro Benson's right arm looking for an armbar! Jethro Benson tries to hold onto his own arm but Lars Levy breaks his grip and extends his arm for the submission! Benson has no choice but to tap out!]
CARRICK PRICE
Nice armbar. It’ll likely be the easiest submission of his career but he executed it flawlessly and put an end to this one sided fight. Congratulations to Levy and the Red Rock Gym.
JASON JACKSON
I feel like we just watched a Pro vs an Ammy. I’m not sure if Benson had a hard cut, or a rough camp, or what the story is here but he was completely unprepared and got thoroughly outclassed tonight. Bad look for the Sym Gym.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Shoot him down a level Dante he needs the polish. And Red Rock definitely making it known that work is being down in their domain, well done. Extremely well done. Ground game is still alive!!
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Levy is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Benson 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 two minutes fifty-four seconds in the second round, declaring your winner by submission, “MK Ultra” Lars Levy!
[The crowd cheers once again as Levy 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: Lars Levy by Submission (Armbar) at 2:54 Round 2
Statistics: Jethro Benson
Punches 0/36 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/3 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 233 s
Statistics: Lars Levy
Punches 21/30 (70%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 5/5 (100%)
GnP strikes 3/3 (100%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 233 s
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 2-1. He stands 6’8”, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from St. Paul, Minnesota, fighting out of Twin Cities MMA, presenting Owen “The Viper” Barnes!
[Owen Barnes looks like he has been waiting for this fight forever.]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
I see we have a redwood.
CARRICK PRICE
Ohhhhh I fucking love big boy fights and Jesus Christ look at the size of em. Biggest goddamn viper I’ve ever seen. This shite isn’t getting out of the first round no matter what but I’m bettin on that lad no doubt.
JASON JACKSON
He’s not just a “big Boy” bro. He’s a fucking Kaiju. SIX FOOT FUCKING EIGHT and Two-sixty five? This man is a behemoth. My soul is ready for this fight.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 1-1. He stands 6’3”, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, presenting “Killjoy” Zander Altman!
[Zander Altman is calm in his corner. He looks convinced of his abilities.]
CARRICK PRICE
Goddamn. Does this guy not even have a gym he’s training out of. What the fuck? How you gonna let this man get in the cage when he’s fighting out of his ma’s basement?
TOUSSAINT HARPER
You know that one scene in almost every movie where David, the underdog, or the little giant stands against Goliath and you watch with faith and hope for the underdog? I’m looking at this situation and I really don’t feel the faith. This truly has all the marks of being another one sided affair but trust me I am hoping it’s not the case.
JASON JACKSON
I was wondering the same thing. I kept reading over the tale of the tape list they gave us here and I was like “ Where’s the goddamn gym?” Guess he’s one of the performance center guys. This could be a scouting opportunity for some gym owners out here in the crowd in need of a heavyweight though. Moving on up out of mom’s basement and-- Jesus fucking christ it’s Dusty Whittaker. Shoot me.
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The bell sounds to make this fight official. Zander Altman and Owen Barnes close the distance and touch gloves in the center to get this fight started. Both fighters circle side to side to find their range and look for any openings. Barnes shows off his underrated speed with a spinning back fist and clips Altman right on the chin! Altman stumbles on the backs of his heels and reveals a cut on his chin that’s already trickling blood. Barnes rushes in to keep the pressure on and launches a massive head kick! Zander Altman drops to the canvas and Owen Barnes comes rushing in, dropping heavy combos! And just like that, Dusty Whittaker has seen enough! The fight is over! Altman was not intelligently defending himself!]
JASON JACKSON
OoOoOoH SHIT. OH SHIT. SLEPT. BIG BOY GOT KICKS.
CARRICK PRICE
Fucks sake. I hope whatever the pay day he’s getting for taking that headkick is enough to pay for whatever bathroom renovation he was hoping for. Seriously, Dante. Don’t let this lad back in a cage again. He isn’t ready for this level of competition and he’s damn lucky Barnes didn’t murder his ass tonight.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Poor lil pup. Yashouldntadonethat, he’s just a boy. With these two fights the matchups haven’t been too even skill wise. These are opportunities that Everest kids are putting on the line for for less, throw the whole Zander away.
JASON JACKSON
Welp. Remember what I said about gym owners and… yeah… scratch that. Ahem. THis fella is deceased. Let’s have a moment of silence and I’ll pour out some liquor for the homie. [sounds of liquid hitting the floor] Rest in peace uh… what was his name?
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Barnes is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Altman 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 forty-one seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, Owen “The Viper” Barnes!
[The crowd cheers once again as Barnes 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: Owen Barnes by TKO (High Kick) at 0:41 Round 1
Statistics: Zander Altman
Punches 0/1 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Owen Barnes
Punches 4/5 (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 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 1-0. She stands 5’7”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil, fighting out of Gracie Humaitia, Nova Uniao, presenting “Maravilha” Isabel Azevedo!
[Isabel Azevedo looks very relaxed.]
CARRICK PRICE
I am excited for this one. Boy what a statement Izzy Azevedo could make tonight with a win against her opponent. It’s only her second professional fight but a win here could really start to propel her into a discussion of who ELSE might face Dallas should he continue to hold onto the Bantamweight Championship.
JASON JACKSON
Excellent Jiu Jitsu skills possessed by this lady right here. 5’7 and 135, she is dynamite in a small package. I think 1-0, potentially 2-0 with a win here, might be a little early to start talking about her in the contender picture but if she strings together 3? 4? She could be in line to stand toe to toe with ol’ Dally boy, who I have full faith in still being champion.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Isabel Azevedo! A natural way of determining next up but at the same time I do believe more within the division are being looked over when they shouldn’t be. She’s started well but seeing how she stacks here will show a lot for the future. She’s that fresh air all divisions need.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Savate Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 7-2. She stands 5’7”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Sacramento, California, fighting out of Throne MMA, presenting Kelsi “Gold Star” Morrow!
[Kelsi Morrow doesn't look concerned about anything his opponent brings to the table.]
CARRICK PRICE
Kelsi’s as sweet as they come but I wouldn’t let how nice she is fool you. She’ll smile at you and put a damn gold star on your t-shirt one second, and then be choking you out the next. Her kicks are deadly and you know she’s looking to get herself into championship contention herself. This one should be good, no doubt.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
If kindness kills then she’s the angel of death. That calm expression she holds is usually terrible for the person across from her. Her record already holds to good claim as an upcoming challenger but we prove our place in the cage at Union. I’m ready for this one.
JASON JACKSON
You’re not kidding. She’s actually got a wealth of experience with 9 pro fights and that might be the key here for her to win. Use that knowledge. I mean, she is a school teacher after all. Come on teach! Pass out a gold star asswhoopin and get yourself back into title contention.
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[Kelsi Morrow and Isabel Azevedo touch gloves in the center to get this fight started! Both fighters circle around the center of the cage. Kelsi Morrow lands a solid shot to the body. Azevedo didn't like that and shoots for a takedown! Not a desirable position for Morrow to be in now. Isabel is holding Kelsi Morrow's left leg, but Kelsi shows great balance while pushing her away! Azevedo grabs her by the waist and tries again to take the fight to the ground but Morrow struggles and Isabel is unsuccessful!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Isabel making it perfectly clear where she wants this night to go. Kelsi is doing a great job of denying it so far but eventually it will get there.
[Azevedo fakes a punch and shoots for another takedown, but Morrow sprawls and remains on her feet! She throws some solid jabs, but Azevedo defends. Some counter punches almost hit her as she moves away, but soon Isabel Azevedo looks to counter! Double leg takedown attempt, stuffed again by Kelsi!]
CARRICK PRICE
You can tell where Izzy wants to take this fight especially after that early body shot from Kels. Really superb takedown defense from Morrow and if that’s how it’s going to be, Izzy is going to have a long night. Or a short one that’s brought to a close by a nasty head kick.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
I don’t know Carrick, I agree the head kick can easily come Izzy’s way but she’s going full force on these takedown attempts.
[Both fighters circle each other again. Isabel Azevedo goes with a looping right hand while Kelsi Morrow jumps back and jabs! Azevedo only hits air and the subsequent exchange is fruitless. Maravilha goes for a low kick, but Kelsi Morrow stops it. Azevedo studies his opponent looking for a hole in her defense. Morrow looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Isabel Azevedo's punches! Great combo by Azevedo, and it looks like Kelsi took the worst of the exchange, but she manages to jab at Azevedo and hit her chest!]
JASON JACKSON
Azvedo finally landed some offense here. Kelsi is looking sharp out there with her striking and takedown defense like you stated Carrick. Working the angles and playing to her strengths. SHowing us that experience we spoke about before.
[The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage. Isabel Azevedo goes again to the ground! She catches Kelsi Morrow's far ankle and trips her to the mat! Isabel Azevedo is in closed guard over Morrow, looking to cool the fight on the ground. She looks to pass Kelsi Morrow's guard. She gets his hips free and moves to half guard! Kelsi Morrow attempts to move to full guard, but Isabel keeps good control and remains in half guard. Azevedo launches a few fake punches and tries to escape, but Morrow is covering herself! Azevedo tries to force the situation and Morrow clumsily gives her back! Azevedo is now in rear mount over Morrow, who breathes deeply and tries a hammer punch to Azevedo's ribs, which Maravilha blocks!]
CARRICK PRICE
Christ, Harpy, how turned on are you right now? This the most turned on two women have ever made you?
TOUSSAINT HARPER
I don’t allow Willie Green to give up my hopes anymore. I’m sweating but I refuse to give in. [Exhales steady] I told you guys eventually it would get here. Hopefully there aren’t any cockblocks in stripes tonight.
[Morrow has Azevedo controlling her back while on the ground. She tries to roll and find an escape… Morrow misses a step and Isabel Azevedo sees an opportunity to counter! Rear naked choke attempt! Morrow manages to roll on the ground and break the lock! Neither can get an advantage now, and the referee decides to stand them up!]
JASON JACKSON
WHY THE FUCK is it that the grapplers always draw this asshat as the ref? Yeah, you! FUCK YOU prick. Learn how to referee. Near fight ender on the ground and captain dicklips decides to stand them up. Come on now.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
The rear naked choke slipped in through the tightest space. The lock was broken but they stalled out after. I can see the stand up here a little bit. They are doing better with this.
[The clock says 4:20 in the 1 round. Isabel Azevedo is slowing the pace of the fight a bit and circles around her opponent. She launches a combination that forces Morrow to defend! Maravilha fakes a punch and shoots a takedown! Kelsi Morrow didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground! Isabel Azevedo tries to finish with a leg lock, but Morrow is able to break it!]
CARRICK PRICE
Kelsi has done a nice job defending the submission attempts so far this round but she’s got to find a way to keep the fight upright. She’s clearly outclassed on the ground by a substantial margin.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, you can defend twenty submission attempts from a good grappler but the twenty-first is the one they sink in for the kill. Stop giving her the chance to lock anything in. Work for position, and work to your feet. Move for fucking die.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
I know you’re saying it as an example JJ but we both know it will not take a Black Belt twenty attempts. Morrow can not allow this to happen even ten times. Willie Green please let these women work. I just know this will be a clinic.
[Isabel Azevedo is now in open guard over Morrow. She tries to jump to side mount, but Kelsi Morrow jumps and shows some wrestling skills as she positions herself for continuing the fight in side control! But the bell rings, and referee Willie Green tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.]
CARRICK PRICE
10-9 Azevedo for me. I think Kelsi needs to respond early in the second. If she ends up on the canvas again Izzy is going to burn through her gas tank so quickly and things will get ugly quick.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, 10-9 Azevedo. Kelsi is doing great with defending everything thrown her way, but you can’t play defense an entire fight. Part of the judging criteria is Aggression and Control. These two things were all Isabel Azevedo in Round 1.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
I agree. Kelsi is good on the feet but the problem was most of that round was on the ground. Defended well to start and continued midway through but when you’re defending you aren’t scoring. Azevedo game plan is going full steam right now.
=========================================
ROUND TWO
=========================================
[The fighters come at each other, and Kelsi Morrow steps back, not engaging. Soon she throws some solid jabs, but Azevedo defends. Morrow looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Isabel Azevedo's punches. Both fighters are wildly hitting the air! Kelsi Morrow goes with a looping right hand while Isabel Azevedo jumps back and jabs! The hit lands, but Azevedo seems unaffected, countering with a nice one-two combination that gets blocked! Great exchange from both fighters so far, but Azevedo measures the resilience of Morrow's chin with an uppercut while Morrow lands some great crosses! Kelsi Morrow fakes a punch and launches herself over Isabel Azevedo, and puts her in a troublesome Thai clinch! Isabel Azevedo tries to shrug her way out of the clinch, but Morrow pummels through and manages to retain her position!]
CARRICK PRICE
Have to say I’m really impressed with Azevedo’s striking so far tonight. She doesn’t rely upon it but she has managed to use it to neutralize her opponents aggression and set up her takedowns.
JASON JACKSON
She’s holding her own but it’s clear Kelsi has the upper hand on the feet. I think the clinch here is a smart idea. Grind her down, and tire her out some. Morrow can land some devastating offense from here and that's just what she needs to get back into this fight.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
I’m half and half with it. I feel that her bringing her into the clinch does actually as you said Jackson but I think Azevedo can bring her to the mat from this position as well. Dare I even say it would be easier for her from what I’ve seen from her.
[Both fighters are still tied in the clinch! Kelsi Morrow fakes a few punches and tries a quick knee! Azevedo got hit, and clutches her abdomen in pain! Soon she looks to change levels for the takedown… she catches an ankle and Morrow is tripped to the mat! Isabel Azevedo is in closed guard over Morrow. She struggles on the ground and tries to break Kelsi Morrow's guard… and she does it! She tries a leg lock one more time! The leglock looks tight and the pain is reflected in Morrow’s eyes! Morrow manages to break the hold, but she has hyper-extended her left leg!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
The knee was a good start for Morrow in the clinch but Azevedo responds like I thought she would and brings the fight home. Azevedo has permanently changed the scope of this fight and just look at Morrow, there’s still a lot of time left in this round. Then the third.
CARRICK PRICE
Not good. Not good at all. Somehow Kelsi managed to escape that leg lock but you can tell that left knee is bothering her a lot.
[The clock says 2:00. Isabel Azevedo is still in open guard over Morrow. She tries to open up Morrow with a few strikes with her right elbow, but Morrow blocks! Azevedo misses a step and Kelsi Morrow sees an opportunity to counter! Morrow launches a few weak punches, but Azevedo blocks them effectively. Isabel Azevedo tries to pass to half guard, but Kelsi Morrow closes her guard to prevent the pass. Isabel Azevedo tries again, and this time she breaks the closed guard of Kelsi Morrow and moves to half guard! Azevedo tries now to move to full mount, and succeeds!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
*hears fumbling and tapping of cloth on forehead* *heavy breathing*
JASON JACKSON
Very bad position here or Keli Morrow. She’s wearing the pain from the knee on her face and she seems to be fading quickly, overwhelmed by the sheer… dominant presence of Isabel Azevedo on the mat. Morrow needs to stay calm here and look to escape. You have a few options here. The trap and roll, the elbow escape. I hope she had a good BJJ coach coming into this because this is where your coaching pays off.
[Isabel Azevedo is now in full mount over Kelsi Morrow. Kelsi tries to roll to her side and trap Isabel Azevedo in her guard, but Maravilha keeps good control and is able to remain on full mount! She isolates Kelsi Morrow's arm and neck looking for an arm triangle, but Kelsi is able to relieve the pressure on her neck and slip out of the hold. Another dull moment in the fight, and again the referee stands the fighters up!]
CARRICK PRICE
We’re inching closer and closer to a finish I think and it just looks a little like Kelsi’s spirit is breaking and that is a hard thing to do to someone fighting out of Throne.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
By my count that’s the third submission attempt from Azevedo that was either dangerous or extremely damaging. Morrow will not make it to the third if this keeps going, there’s no way. We were saying Morrow needs to get back to her feet, it’s now a painful idea because of her left leg. A Maravilha, a very distinctive gameplan, working in all aspects. This is her second Union fight.
[Both fighters approach each other again. Isabel Azevedo fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut that lands on Morrow's chin! Kelsi Morrow launches a body shot, but Azevedo dodges and catches her with a hard cross! Morrow then decides to step away from Isabel Azevedo and attempt to cool the fight, but Azevedo won’t let her, and plants her on the mat with another takedown! Isabel Azevedo is in open guard over Morrow, and this time Kelsi Morrow can't prevent her opponent from passing. Azevedo looks to work from half guard, and then to side mount! Kelsi Morrow attempts to trap Isabel Azevedo in her guard, but no dice! Morrow launches a few weak punches, but again Azevedo blocks, and transitions to full mount! She tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top, but Morrow is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
There’s hope with that shift from Morrow. She’s still in the game enough to discern danger but now it’s about mounting some offense. Which ain't looking to be in the cards right now with a raging Azevedo.
JASON JACKSON
There is a gaping hole in the sails of Kelsi Morrow right now, and this ship is stalled in dead water. She’s lost all steam and the look on her face right now is one of pure discouragement. Her corner needs to get on that. Pep her up, fire her the fuck up, but most of all let her know not to let the opponent see the defeat in her features like that. Don’t make yourself prey.
[Morrow is using some of her ground skills to escape from this, but Isabel Azevedo pushes Kelsi Morrow down and prevents her attempts to escape! One more time the bell catches the fighters on the ground, and Willie Green tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over. It seems to be a close round for Isabel Azevedo!]
CARRICK PRICE
Another just dominant round from Isabel Azevedo. Kelsi’s showed a ton of heart to continue to give herself a chance but she needs to finish the fight in the third. There’s no chance the judges score this as a decision in her favor. Gotta leave it all out there.
JASON JACKSON
Sometimes you just have to go for broke, Carrick. Swing for the fences and hope for the best. This is one of those times for Kelsi Morrow. Hopefully they can breathe some new life into her and get her back into this fight to pull off a spectacular comeback. We’ll see.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
There’s no praying this one. Her corner will keep her encouraged but they also need to hit her with the reality of the moment. The judges have made some bad calls in the past though so I think it’s in both benefits to take it into their own hands. Kelsi needs to go all in and Azevedo needs to do the same just to place her stamp on a dominant performance. Round three and I actually want to send a shoutout to Willie Green for letting these women go. It’s been a pleasure to watch.
=========================================
ROUND THREE
=========================================
[Morrow needs to look for the offense, and she launches a furious low kick! Isabel Azevedo blocks, and delivers a bone-shattering straight left hand! She follows up with a hook to the body that catches Morrow right on the ribs! Morrow is on the receiving end of a great combo by Azevedo!]
CARRICK PRICE
Jesus Christ that left… fuck I’ve got a headache just from watching it.
JASON JACKSON
YIKES. That’s not what I had in mind by “Swing for the fences” Morrow is PUNISHED here by Isabel Azevedo.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Not only on the ground. She chooses to make her mark on the feet now. That shot to the body will have a lasting effect, you can already tell.
[As both fighters circle around the center of the cage, Isabel Azevedo throws a punch that finds an opening in the defense of Morrow. She presses forward, but Morrow bobs and weaves to avoid her punches. Soon, however, Azevedo finds the advantage again, and Morrow has to try and defend better. Azevedo steps back to regain her breath, but soon goes for yet another! Takedown! Morrow is unable to remain on her feet and falls to the ground! Maravilha sees the opening and goes for the leg lock! After the previous punishment her leg has taken, Morrow can't stand the pain and taps!]
CARRICK PRICE
Hell of a gameplan executed flawlessly by Azevedo and her corner. Kelsi was a gamer the whole time. She definitely left everything she had out there but after having her knee extended in that unnatural way in the second there really wasn’t much hope left and Izzy was like a shark that smelled blood in the water. I’m thoroughly impressed by her.
JASON JACKSON
I don’t know man. Like, at the beginning of this fight I said it was too early to consider her a contender but fighting like that? [whistles and clicks his tongue] You might be onto something. You think Dally is watching this one closely?
TOUSSAINT HARPER
[hand claps can be heard] See what Union GP can witness with the refs let them go on the ground!! I’m just. This is her second Union fight guys and either we were late or she was because good God. There’s a lot of ‘show’ Maravilha just showed in there. We had doubts people, keyword had!
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Azevedo is swarmed by her corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Morrow 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 Willie Green has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes thirty seconds in the third and final round, declaring your winner by submission, “Maravilha” Isabel Azevedo!
[The crowd cheers once again as Azevedo 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: Isabel Azevedo by Submission (leglock) at 2:30 Round 3
Statistics: Kelsi Morrow
Punches 9/23 (39%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/10 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 265 s
Statistics: Isabel Azevedo
Punches 24/35 (69%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 5/9 (56%)
GnP strikes 0/4 (0%)
Submissions 6/6 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 265 s
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Co-Main Event of the evening! The following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Lightweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-1. She stands 5’11”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. She is from Kapolei, Hawaii, fighting out of Paris Combat, presenting Maliyah “Cold Case” Lyons!
[Maliyah Lyons shifts back and forth nervously.]
CARRICK PRICE
Is it just me or does it feel like it’s been a quick night of fights? We’ve reached the Co-Main event and this one should be a good one. Maliyah Lyons is a legacy fighter, absolutely related to the incomparable Lena Lyons and thank god she’s better looking too. At three and one, a victory tonight over someone that has challenged Delaney Donovan for the Lightweight Championship would do wonders for her career and to be honest that’s a little bit of what the lightweight division needs right now. It needs new blood to challenge the reigning, defending champion.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah uce. A lot of quick finishes tonight. It’s like we’re getting full pay for a half day at work. I’m excited to see how this one here plays out. I’m a fan of both of these fighters. What confuses me is why Maliyah doesn’t train with Lena? Like… You’ve got a family member who has been around and trained with some of the greatest fighters in the sport and still continues to. I’d use that to my advantage if I were her.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
A couple overmatched matchups? If that makes sense. I think it made for short nights for a few. On the family lineage some people just want to make their own way and timing. One thing I know for sure this should be a competitive fight.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 4-3. He stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, presenting August Pope!
[August Pope glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.]
CARRICK PRICE
August Pope is not just going to lay down and die just because it would be nice for a new face to enter the lightweight contendership picture, though. He’s a tough, gritty boxer that doesn’t get nearly as much attention or appreciation as he should. A win tonight could put him in a contendership bout with Natalie King to determine who fights Delaney next and with rumors of a potential superfight between Primarch and Double D swirling, there’s definitely time for the 155ers to get themselves sorted out.
JASON JACKSON
August started out SMOKING hot here in UGP. His only losses have been to champions in title fights, or contenders like Bellamy DeSilva. I feel like he just had just been overlooked on booking for some time and that hurt his stock. I don’t know if he was injured, or had something going on, or his agent just wasn’t pushing for him to be booked… but I’ll tell you this. I’m glad to see him back out there tonight ready to do work.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Another one of those timing things. They always say the ones that are overlooked are usually the most dangerous because they have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Pope has been in the wars and that kind of experience counts. You learn to get comfortable in the chaos. Let’s see what the experience looks like.
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The horn sounds and both fighters move to the center of the cage to touch gloves, before squaring up. Pope fakes a move to the right before launching an uppercut that tags Maliyah in the chin. Rather than follow up, though, he takes a half-step back, as if expecting a response from Lyons--when she doesn’t, though, he moves back in and connects with two quick body shots, a straight left then a strong right hook that slams into Lyons’ ribs! Lyons circles away from the punch, keeping her guard up as Pope walks her down. She flicks out a quick straight to the body, but August deflects the punch and counters with a straight right that connects with Lyons’ nose!]
CARRICK PRICE
I love the patience of August Pope with his striking so far. It’s easy to swarm after a good uppercut like that one and, more times than not, get caught by a nasty counter. But August didn’t do that, though, and instead patiently waited for that opening for those body shots that set up a great hook.
JASON JACKSON
And pin-point accurate uce. He’s just got this smoothness to his boxing, and he’s giving her the ol’ two piece early in this one.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
He started that easy like Sunday morning. Not need to get the range when you already have it right? Lyons never recollected and Pope took advantage. She’s gotta wake before it gets worse.
[With Maliyah staggered for a moment, August drops a level and shoots a double-leg, taking Maliyah to that mat with ease! She manages to keep her guard, though, but August keeps his head free and postures up. He throws a few pitter-patter punches to the body before moving to pass, first to half-guard, then all the way to side mount! Lyons tries to recover her guard, but Pope’s able to secure his position and maintain side control. Lyons tries, instead, to escape back to her feet, but when Pope moves to block her, she switches her hips and recovers her guard instead! August momentarily looks frustrated, but postures up once again. He digs both arms under Maliyah’s legs, stacking her up high on her neck before pushing her aside. He moves first to side mount, then passes into full mount!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Now that’s what I’m talking about! Lets get to work here. Great work from both but Pope is definitely at the ready here.
JASON JACKSON
Nice Jiu Jitsu from both fighters here as they jockey for positioning on the ground. Playing a game of human chess.
[Maliyah tries to push herself free, but August catches her arm and pivots for an armbar; he’s not able to secure the arm as well as he might have liked, though, but he is able to recover the mount while Maliyah secures her arm. Lyons tries to escape to half-guard, but August keeps control of the position, and rather than give her any more time to try to escape, he starts throwing left and right punches, straight down! Several land on Maliyah’s face, with Jordan Ripley even warning Maliyah to defend herself or he could stop the fight, before she’s able to catch an arm and stop the assault. She takes a deep breath, then swims her hips out and uses that leverage to turn August over!]
CARRICK PRICE
Maliyah did a nice job staying cool in a tough situation. That’s a lot of information to process, having the referee in your ear like that when your opponent is trying to put his fist through your face. What a reversal.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
I might reach my peak tonight and it’s been long overdue. Beautiful, absolutely beautiful.
[Now on top, in half-guard, Maliyah takes the time to catch her breath. When she moves to pass, though, August is able to lock her down--while he’s not able to get to his feet, she’s not able to advance her position, and ultimately, Jordan Ripley stops the fight to stand them up. When the fight resumes, Pope launches a three punch combination that lands, hard, and Lyons’ legs look wobbly! In desperation, Maliyah drops for a single leg takedown--and manages to trip him to the mat! August locks his guard just long enough to gets his wits, then manages to sweep Maliyah over, securing full mount in the process!]
JASON JACKSON
August Pope is controlling every aspect of this fight here. His striking is crisp and accurate and he’s smothering Lyons on the ground. This kid is putting on a display.
[Maliyah moves to escape, but Pope’s easily able to keep the mount, catching Maliyah with a couple more shots that keep her in place. Slowly but surely, he works his way higher on her chest, until he’s able to attempt a mounted triangle! He almost secures the position before Maliyah slips free and turns him over, but Pope’s able to secure his guard before she can advance. Maliyah moves to pass, but Pope blocks--and Maliyah spins for a kneebar! For a second, it looks tight, but August is able to kick himself free and get back to his feet. Maliyah stays on the ground until Jordan Ripley stands her up, just in time for the horn to sound to end the round.]
CARRICK PRICE
Holy shit listen to the crowd showing appreciation for both fighters as they return to their respective corners. I think that round goes to Pope but Lyons sent him a warning shot there right at the end, nearly cinching that leg lock in right at the end.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, she let him know that this is MMA. It doesn’t matter how good you are doing throughout the fight, ANYTHING can happen and you can get caught. August needs to keep his mind clear and don’t let his confidence get him in trouble.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Pope gets the round but I think Lyons has a lot of momentum going her way. Pope was able to get a lot more out of being on the feet and also did well on the ground. He was in the better positions in most of the round but Lyons is game.
=========================================
ROUND TWO
=========================================
[The horn sounds to begin round 2, and Maliyah looks a lot more tentative this round than she did before. August, however, knows he’s in driver’s seat, and moves forward with a series of quick jabs, then securing a clinch. Lyons is the one on the attack, though, as she jumps for a flying armbar! Again, she almost looks like she has it locked out, but Pope’s able to free his arm and pass into side mount. He tags Maliyah with a couple hammerfists before driving a knee into her ribs! She visibly winces, but moves to try to recover her guard--which Pope uses to his advantage, passing instead to full mount! Maliyah tries to get out from underneath him, but August blocks her movement and drops a powerful elbow that looks like it might have split Maliyah open!]
JASON JACKSON
HEYYYY-YO! That elbow lande flush. I think t-- yeah, it split her open. She’s pouring blood guys.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
When it starts well and can quickly change in a heartbeat. That armbar looked good and just like that, all bad. Lyons needs to get out fast because he’s got her locked in almost to the shoulders in this mount!!
[Jordan Ripley watches the fight carefully as August drops punches and elbows on Maliyah, but she manages to defend herself well enough to avoid the stoppage so far. She moves to recover her guard, but August rides the transition out and ends up taking Maliyah’s back! He gets one hook in before catching her with a couple strong punches, then digs the other hook in and secures the back mount! August throws a series of punches that Maliyah’s able to mostly block, but her defense cracks for just a moment and August connects with a huge elbow! Punches in bunches keep Maliyah’s attention, before August digs for a rear naked choke!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Oh this is bad for Maliyah. Pope is working not even allowing her to warm up or size up in anyway. She moves, he cracks her and transitions. She blocks, he transitions then cracks her. Then it all leads to a choke. It’s like which choice unfucks me here?
CARRICK PRICE
Take a moment to appreciate the improved ground game of August Pope. I expected to see a slug fest between these two and instead Pope is showing off where his focus has been in his training these past few months.
[Maliyah’s able to block the choke, but with her focus on the choke, she gets caught with another few punches. Every time she defends the punches, August tries to grab the choke again--and every time she defends the choke, she gets caught with more punches. August slaps on a body triangle just to secure his position even more, and starts to throw heavy punches, whether Maliyah’s defending or not, which keeps Jordan Ripley watching. Maliyah tries to move, to escape to August’s guard, but she’s trapped in the body triangle, and taking a lot of punishment!]
JASON JACKSON
PURE domination here by Pope. Maliyah is stuck with nowhere to go. She needs to hit that Granby Roll to get out of here. It’s going to be hard to lock in a choke with all that blood, but Pope is set on going for it.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
This might get called here Ripley’s got that itchy movement.
[Pope again goes for the rear naked choke, and Maliyah’s defense becomes more desperate--which gives August the chance he needs, to pivot his hips and snatch an armbar instead! Maliyah tries to defend it, stacking August up and desperately trying to pull her arm free, but August just spins into a belly-down armbar that Maliyah has no escape for, and eventually has to tap!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Well Damn Pope!! The adjustment to keep the pressure going when Maliyah was doing the right thing to get out. That’s very high level to even acknowledge and respond to in the small time frame given. I’m...I have no words.
CARRICK PRICE
And just like that he uses the rear naked choke to set up the arm bar and in a flash the fight is over. That’s got to be a performance of the night honor for Pope. It has to be. Tremendous fight. Tremendous improvement on the ground. Wow.
JASON JACKSON
I’m impressed. Completely impressed. He dismantled this up and coming fighter and showed why people should put some respect on HIS name. Book this kid more! Push him toward contendership. I want to see him shine.
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Pope is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Lyons for a while before helping her to her feet. After doctors and cut men finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, referee Jordan Ripley has called for a stop in this fight at four minutes forty-eight seconds in the second round, declaring your winner by submission, August Pope!
[The crowd cheers once again as Pope has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
Winner: August Pope by Submission (Armbar) at 4:48 Round 2
Statistics: August Pope
Punches 7/7 (100%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 36/37 (97%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 465 s
Statistics: Maliyah Lyons
Punches 0/0 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 465 s
[The hype package opens with Michael Santos sitting in an interview chair, speaking to an interviewer offscreen.]
MICHAEL SANTOS
Although being a wrestler for many years, I had no real prior experience with MMA. That said, I entered Union Grand Prix with a bang.
[The shot then cuts to the one punch knockout of Cal Mccluskey from several angles. It then cuts back to Michael.]
MICHAEL SANTOS
Since then I’ve been gaining steam, with the exception of one man. In my last fight against Arden Kelly I had won 14 minutes and 55 seconds of it.
[Cut to shots during that fight with Michael landing some good punches, before showing him being patient and even controlling the pace on the ground. It cuts back to Michael who then lets out a chuckle.]
MICHAEL SANTOS
But then that fucker wins the 2 seconds that counts.
[Cut back to Arden’s smooth submission that forces Mike’s tapout, then back to Mike.]
MICHAEL SANTOS
So that was my last fight, and since then I’ve been reflecting and training, and stewing on that disappointment ready to unleash on whoever they next put in my way. Enter Aries Reed, the #1 ranked middleweight making his journey up to grace our division. Don’t get me wrong, guy is fucking impressive. He was #1 ranked for a reason.
[Cut again to several of Aries’s knockout wins in a row, showing his speed and striking power, before his hand getting raised. Back to Mike.]
MICHAEL SANTOS
But if he just thinks he can step up to Cruiserweight and use me as a stepping stone to get to the Roscoe and a Championship shot, he’s going to be in for a rude awakening. Some people are treating this as Aries’s coming out party, where he makes a triumphant arrival to a new division. Well, I’m crashing that party and I’m getting it shut down. This is my division and while I know I turned a lot of heads with my loss to Arden, I’m going to get everyone’s attention when I lay out The Silver Tongued Devil and punch my ticket through to a title fight. My advice? Bet on the Punisher.
[The feed then cuts to the poster for the show, before cutting away.]
♫
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.]
CARRICK PRICE
Every time Aries fights it flashes me back to the Macto days when he and I were just getting our feet wet in this business. I never would have guessed that this is where we’d end up but man, I’m excited. His punching power is unmatched in all of Union in my opinion, and I’m looking forward to him putting that on display tonight against a guy who likes nothing more than to eat punches and feed them right back. He’s stepping up a weight class, though, and I’m not sure that that’s necessarily the best idea.
JASON JACKSON
I don’t think it’s a good idea at all. Aries and I go back quite a ways as well. I almost married his sister. Haha. I’ve trained with him and I’ve seen his skills evolve over the years and he’s a DAMN good fighter… at Middleweight. Adding this extra weight doesn’t do anything for him. He’s bulky, he’s going to be slower, and he’s going to have to adjust to fighting at this heavier weight. I mean, he’s got a puncher’s chance and he can knock anyone out if he catches them clean, don’t get me wrong. However, you’ve gotta be able to land. If you’re slowed down, blown out, and winded? Well… I hope it doesn’t go out like that.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Personally, I would’ve challenged for the title first before making this splash into a new weight class. He earned that spot and easily pushed it aside. The challenge doesn’t get much easier here with rising stars in the Cruiserweight division. Maybe he knows something we don’t and I look forward to it.
[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.]
♫
WALKING THROUGH THE BADLANDS
I WATCH THE TYRANTS SCAR THE RED SANDS
THEIR GREED IS LIKE MORPHINE
DRILLING INTO THE VEINS WITH MACHINES
THE PUREST FOR OF EVIL THAT I'VE EVER SEEN
♫
[The arena begins to dim as the soft intro to “Badlands” by In Hearts Wake begins to play. Just as the heavy metal guitar riff shreds through the PA system, the building explodes with blinding white lights. Michael Santos is illuminated by strobe lights as he walks out to the main stage. Santos never breaks stride and heads straight to the octagon with his corner crew following behind.]
CARRICK PRICE
Bouncing back from a tough, heartbreaking loss to Ardan Kelly that saw Santos let a fight he was clearly winning slip away with a last second submission, he seems even more focused than he was before. He’s hungry, no doubt, and that makes him even more dangerous but his opponent is a veteran of the cage and I don’t know that that hunger is going to be enough to overcome a guy like Aries. We’re about to find out.
JASON JACKSON
Like you said, this guy likes to stand in the pocket and trade. He has a solid chin and will eat your punches and dish them right back out. That loss to Kelly was heartbreaking for him, but it’s also a motivator. He said he was going to come in here and welcome Aries to this division properly and I have no doubt that this one is going to be a fucking slobberknocker slug fest.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Santos is an example when I say a rising star in the Cruiserweight division. People might want to place weight on his loss to Kelly and yes there’s nothing like a good loss but he made his point in that fight. To look out for him.
[Santos reaches the cageside area and begins to strip down to his trunks. He steps over to the fight official and gets inspected to ensure he’s fit to fight. Once he’s been cleared, he grabs a bottled water from one of his cornermen and takes a quick swig before handing it off and stomping his way up the steps. Santos goes straight to his corner, where he then shadow boxes to stay loose.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Colorado Combative Sports Commission, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are Miranda Franco, Max Carver, and Ozzie Sebastian, and when the action begins, our referee in charge in the octagon is Herschel Warden. AND NOW, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! The following contest is scheduled for five rounds in the Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 16-6. He stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 220 pounds. He is from Atlanta, Georgia, fighting out of Lion's Den FC Las Vegas, presenting “The Silver Tongued Devil” Aries Reed!
[Ferocious staredown by Reed while Herschel Warden recites the rules.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-2. He stands 6’2”, and weighing in at 225 pounds. He is from Melbourne, Australia, fighting out of Throne MMA, presenting “The Punisher” Michael Santos!
[Michael Santos looks at the ground while he does his calming exercises. He knows he can not fail this night.]
JASON JACKSON
You could cut the tension in here with a knife. Man… I’m hype. Here. We. GO.
[The fight gets underway as both men move towards the center of the cage. Reed decides to launch some tentative punches but Michael counters with a stiff jab, Reed moving back to avoid the straight right. Reed now looks for angles as he throws a few jabs of his own, but Santos pushes the pace as he steps inside, throwing a hook to the body followed by an uppercut! The shot has Aries stumbling back, but doesn’t shy away as both men exchange heavy shots.]
CARRICK PRICE
Big uppercut rattles Aries a bit but he’s not going anywhere and already these two are just throwing!
JASON JACKSON
BOMBS AWAYYYY. These boys are here to SCRAP son. No feeling out at all. Full speed ahead.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
It’s not going the distance at this rate. That uppercut was a definite welcome to the new class my dude!!
[Michael tries to push forward again but Aries keeps his distance, not wanting to be on the defensive. The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage before Aries fakes a straight right then launches himself towards Santos, clinching with him and pushing him against the cage. Michael does not want to be here as he tries to force his way out of the clinch, but Aries holds him firmly against the fence. Reed throws a flurry of punches but none connect before Santos is able to duck under and circle out of the corner.]
JASON JACKSON
Great job by Santos to avoid those big shots in the clinch. This is where Aries shines. His dirty boxing is top notch.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Not one connects, that doesn’t bode well because speed needs to be the one thing that Aries has on his side. The gameplan makes sense but the next time he has to score. Santos has been getting the best of the exchanges.
[A right hand from Aries Reed misses its target as Michael moves his head, once again going after Aries and pushing the pace, throwing flurries left and right. Not many punches are hitting, but the ones that land are huge shots! Reed is rocked after a massive right hook to the body! Reed keeps his focus and tries to catch Santos with a shovel hook followed by a right hand, but Santos blocks them both before counter punching with another big right hand of his own! The two exchange wildly, both landing but managing to avoid any real damage. Wanting to change the momentum of this fight, Reed grabs his opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground but Santos struggles, keeping his weight down and blocking the throw.]
CARRICK PRICE
Nice takedown defense by Santos there. He doesn’t want the fight to go to the ground by any means.
JASON JACKSON
I don’t either. Haha. Seriously. I just want to watch these two slug it out until someone falls like a giant oak tree.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Reed is attempting to switch it up and Santos isn’t giving him an inch. I can’t blame Santos at all he’s giving him all he can handle. Aries needs to either close it in with the clinch again or set up the next takedown by working Santos' aggression against him.
[Reed releases and throws a Crisp uppercut followed by a hard jab, but Santos deflects the blows before once again forcing him back with brutal punches, faking another leading hook to the ribs which Aries goes low to block, instead connecting with a superb haymaker that lands on Reed's face like a cannonball!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
OR maybe not! SHIT!!
JASON JACKSON
BOP!
CARRICK PRICE
Christ! He set that haymaker up so well by faking that body shot. Even I didn’t see that shite coming.
JASON JACKSON
He felt it though. He’s rocked pretty badly here! Santos is moving in for the kill.
[Reed's Mouth is beginning to swell and his nose looks bruised as he staggers back from the shot! Reed tries to keep his feet but Santos rushes him from one end of the cage to the other with brutal punches, knocking him to the floor against the cage! Michael is on top of him just raining down unanswered bombs before Herschel Warden has seen enough! The fight is over! Reed was not intelligently defending himself!]
JASON JACKSON
THAT. IS. IT. IT’S OVER!!!!
TOUSSAINT HARPER
Annnnd time of death...
CARRICK PRICE
Wowwwwww! WOW! There was no letting this one slip through his grasp. Michael Santos just put a damn exclamation point on tonight’s fights.
JASON JACKSON
I told you. That added weight did Aries no favors here. Unless you are walking around that big and have to cut to make Cruiser? I wouldn’t even do it. I mean, Aries is lean and he has some size to him but these boys are hefty. It’s hard to get used to executing well when you aren’t used to fighting that heavy.
TOUSSAINT HARPER
I thought he knew the cheat codes or something we didn’t. There’s a lot more power behind these bigger guys, you can eat to make the weight but there’s still the change of a larger body to deal with. Santos shows the difference in walking around in that weight and transitioning to that weight, there’s always a risk. Plus Santos defense was top notch makes it harder.
[There is a small laceration seen on Aries Reed's Forehead as the crowd explodes into cheers and Santos is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Reed 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 Herschel Warden has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes fifty-nine seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, “The Punisher” Michael Santos!
[The crowd cheers once again as Santos 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: Michael Santos by TKO (Punches) at 2:59 Round 1
Statistics: Michael Santos
Punches 36/44 (82%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Aries Reed
Punches 3/14 (21%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/5 (0%)
Takedowns 0/1 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 0 s