UNITED CENTER
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
MAY 17, 2020
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PRESHOW
TENSLEY TAYLOR SINGS
THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
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MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the United Center in The Windy City — Chicago , Illinois for UGP 20! And now, this opening contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Lightweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, an Unorthodox Fighter holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-0-1. He stands 5’11”, and weighing in at 147 pounds. He is from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, fighting out of 9th World Performance Institute, he is “The Pride of Brazil” Bellamy DeSilva!
[Ferocious staredown by DeSilva while Dusty Whittaker recites the rules.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Making the first walkout here tonight on the main card is a young rookie out of 9th World. From what we’ve seen of him so far, he’s a mixed bag of skill set. We know he’s got some incredible ground game with the top level submissions, and we saw in his last fight that he packs some serious heat in his striking. Bellamy DeSilva is looking to make a statement here tonight with a win over a man who’s challenged for the title twice now.
JASON JACKSON
DeSilva has been adamant to change the perspective on himself after that draw finish against Tatum Momo’a. He’s looking to continue his winning ways after earning a TKO finish against Yasmine Vermeulen in his last fight. Tonight is without question his biggest test, and if he can come out on top, perhaps we start talking about a title shot for The Pride of Brazil.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 4-2. He stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, he is August Pope!
[People are cheering for this fighter. You can hear August Pope chants all around the place! August Pope glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
This is another young blood who’s already making waves and solidifying himself as one of the best in a deep and competitive lightweight division. August Pope has lost two of his last three fights, but those two losses have come at the hands of former two-time Lightweight Champion Jordan Parker-Kane, and current Lightweight Champion Delaney Donovan. Pope is in a different situation here tonight than DeSilva. I believe Pope is a couple of fights away from earning another crack at the title, but then again, perhaps he executes a brilliant performance inside these fifteen minutes that could change some opinions.
JASON JACKSON
No question about it. I’m sure Delaney Donovan is watching on very closely. This is the first time these two meet inside the cage. Given where they stand in the rankings right now, a signature victory tonight would surely catapult the victor into serious title shot discussions. And now our referee for this opening bout is Dusty Whittaker. He signals to both men and looks ready to get this night kicked off right!
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ROUND ONE
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[Pope and DeSilva move forward as the bell signals the beginning of the fight with a touch of the gloves. The fighters circle before Bellamy DeSilva suddenly spins around looking for a spinning backfist but August Pope was aware of that and blocks it with confidence. A hook from August Pope fires back and grazes DeSilva's right cheek. DeSilva's Right cheek starts beginning to swell already.]
JASON JACKSON
Some Heavy shots landing early here. It looks like DeSilva already has a mouse forming and we are just getting started. It’s going to be a long night for him if he doesn’t avoid those shots.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
This is definitely a rough start for Bellamy. Pope telegraphed the backfist perfectly.
[DeSilva shows excellent timing, and blasts August Pope with a right hand. Pope steps backwards as DeSilva comes with a left. The punch goes wide and A right hand from August Pope surprises DeSilva! Another niice punch by August Pope who outboxes DeSilva in a quick exchange. DeSilva decides to launch some tentative punches. Pope launches a couple of jabs and DeSilva answers with a stiff cross! DeSilva keeps pouring with a brutal combination that forces Pope to move aside.]
JASON JACKSON
We’ve got a SHOOTOUT. I know we came to watch some MMA but this looks straight up like a boxing match thus far.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Both of these fighters coming out heavy handed, but where Pope has the advantage in straight up striking, it looks like DeSilva is controlling the pace and timing of this fight. If he can weather the storm, he might be able to gain full control.
[Bellamy DeSilva shoots for a double leg takedown! He hits it! August Pope is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull DeSilva into his guard. Bellamy DeSilva is in closed guard over Pope. DeSilva tries to launch a few punches but Pope is able to achieve closed guard and counter Bellamy DeSilva's punches. DeSilva tries to escape from the closed guard he succeeds and he's now in open guard... he takes a second to breathe. Bellamy DeSilva tries to pass to half guard...He does and August tries to turn away and scramble out. DeSilva takes his back and locks up a rear naked choke!]
JASON JACKSON
Dangerous position here for August Pope! Can Bellamy DeSilva finish the choke?
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Bellamy seems to have the control, but I don’t know if he’s got that choked locked in.
[He can't lock it up. August Pope spins out and gets back to his feet. So does Bellamy and the crowd begins to cheer on the fighters. They meet in the center of the cage where they engage in a wild exchange of punches! Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch. Bellamy DeSilva then changes levels and shoots for the takedown. Pope can't stay on his feet and gets planted to the ground.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
BELLAMY AGAIN TAKES POPE DOWN!!!
JASON JACKSON
Back up, and right back down we go. This definitely isn’t a boxing match anymore.
[In open guard over Pope DeSilva tries to open him up with a few strikes with his right elbow...Pope blocks a few of those. Bellamy then launches a couple of elbows against Pope's ribs. Pope blocks those as well and tries to reverse the situation. Pope tries to close his guard around DeSilva. He succeeds! Pope tries to roll on the ground! Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Bellamy DeSilva! DeSilva tries to roll to his side and trap August Pope in his guard… DeSilva gets his hip out and moves to full guard.]
[Pope moves on the ground...He remains in open guard. DeSilva throws his legs up in a triangle attempt! August Pope realizes the danger and stands up to avoid the attack. August Pope decides to jump inside DeSilva's guard. DeSilva didn't see that coming. Pope is in open guard over DeSilva now. After not much action taking place on the ground though, Dusty Whittaker halts the fight to stand up the fighters. They waste no time sending blows at one another. Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Here I thought we had a stalemate between Pope and DeSilva, but it seems like they’re just going right back at it!
JASON JACKSON
You know, I’m always one to complain about this guy standing people up but I think that was a good call. YIKES! Those are some solid shots.
[Bellamy DeSilva throws a looping right hand. That lands on Pope's chin! That stops Pope in his tracks as his knees buckles. DeSilva tries to take the fight to the ground with a single leg takedown. August Pope jumps backwards and frees his leg. Pope tries some clinching in order to control the fight...Well done. Pope gets DeSilva in the clinch. DeSilva pushes away Pope trying to keep the fight at striking range. Pope doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Bellamy DeSilva. DeSilva tries to dirty boxing while he holds Pope against the cage. Pope is unable to defend himself and receives some punches to the ribs.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Pope having a hard time on the cage wall there.
JASON JACKSON
Pope was rocked hard there, but it looks like he got his legs back under him. MAN, what a brawl!
[DeSilva looks for some more of those punches but August escapes from the clinch and as he does a right hand from Bellamy lands clean and it stuns Pope! They both start to exchange wildly, both landing but without much steam behind the shots. Bellamy DeSilva shoots for a double leg takedown! He hits it! August Pope is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull DeSilva into his guard but the buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner as the crowd cheers.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Bellamy ends this round with another takedown. Looked like Pope was ready for the ground game this time, but the round ends before we could see where this exchange could go.
JASON JACKSON
I gotta score that round 10-9 DeSilva. He’s in the driver seat here and August needs to work on finding his timing and range and collect his composure. He got put in a few bad spots there and I think he;s in survival mode. His corner needs to bring him back down and restore his confidence.
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ROUND TWO
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[DeSilva wastes no time and plants a big right hand to Pope's chin. A furious flurry of punches follow that are landing clean. August retreats and moves backwards as DeSilva throws his hands up. They circle the cage before DeSilva shoots and gets ahold of Pope's left leg... He's trying to take him down. August Pope loses balance and goes to the ground. DeSilva is in side mount over August Pope but Pope quickly gets to half guard. DeSilva launches a couple of elbows against Pope's ribs. Pope blocks Bellamy DeSilva's moves and tries to reverse the situation.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
And we’re right back where we left off from Round 1. DeSilva goes back to the ground, and Pope is doing everything in his power to defend.
JASON JACKSON
Well, if August’s corner restored his confidence between rounds, it is surely diminishing right now in the opening seconds of this round. DeSilva is smothering this kid. He doesn’t have room to think or breathe.
[August Pope attempts to move to full guard. Pope manages to switch to full guard. DeSilva tries to open up Pope with a few strikes with his right elbow. Some nice shots are landing and Pope is trying to block them with his hands...DeSilva throws some punches and some of them get through. Body shots by Bellamy DeSilva and Pope covers up.]
[Bellamy DeSilva is in open guard over Pope. Deep breaths from August Pope who tries a hammer punch to DeSilva's ribs.That hit DeSilva who moves on the ground in order to protect himself. Pope tries to move on the ground and shows Bellamy DeSilva a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow! Pope's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Dusty Whittaker knows he may be calling off the fight soon! DeSilva fakes a move and then tries a kneebar! Pope rolls on the ground trying to get free and after a few kicks of his own he escapes and the fight resumes with both fighters standing.]
JASON JACKSON
OOOOOOHWEEE Jesus, FUCK that elbow! He bounced his head off the mat. How is this kid still standing? He is the Terminator.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
That elbow looked like it might’ve been a receipt for that nasty hook from the opening moments. DeSilva tried to be too fancy with the fake out knee bar, and now his opponent is back on his feet ready for more!
[August sends a one two toward Bellamy. DeSilva punches back but nobody connects. Pope moves forward looking for some action and gets DeSilva in a double overhook! DeSilva doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under August Pope embrace and tries to move away...August Pope pushes DeSilva forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch. DeSilva tries to shrug his way out of the clinch but Pope is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position. August Pope postures up and launches a series of punches! A lot of them are hitting DeSilva hard, who may be wondering how to escape from this!]
JASON JACKSON
DeSilva in a bad spot now! August Pope has come alive!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I said it before, Pope has the striking advantage by far. Now that Bellamy is rocked, he can’t find his timing anymore and August is just letting him have it because of it.
[August Pope grapples with Bellamy DeSilva and tries a Outer Leg Sweep. Wonderful takedown and August is in side mount over Bellamy DeSilva. DeSilva works on the ground with his fingers over Pope's face. He seems to have encountered the eye! Whittaker didn't see it. Deep breaths from Bellamy DeSilva who tries a hammer punch to Pope's ribs. Pope blocks those punches. DeSilva tries to get to half guard and he does. DeSilva reaches under and rolls for a kneebar! Pope blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard. Pope tries to launch a few punches to Bellamy DeSilva. Little effect. A lot of them are hitting DeSilva's defense.]
JASON JACKSON
Nice kneebar attempt there, but I think DeSilva poked him in the eye on the ground. The ref didn’t see that shit, but I did. Shame on you.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I don’t think the poke to the eye did DeSilva any favors. His kneebar attempt was unsuccessful again, and again he’s at the mercy of the striking power of August Pope.
[Deep breaths again from Bellamy DeSilva who tries a hammer punch to Pope's ribs. That hit Pope who moves on the ground in order to protect himself. Bellamy DeSilva launches a few punches to Pope's cheek from the guard. Those punches sure are annoying because Pope tries to cover his face. DeSilva attempts to move to full guard. August keeps good control and remains in half guard. DeSilva throws his legs up in a triangle attempt! August Pope realizes the danger and stands up to avoid the attack. Pope opts to jump inside DeSilva's guard. DeSilva fights back with his feet, forcing Pope to try something else but Dusty Whittaker separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Pope made a lot of necessary adjustments this round, but I think I still have to give it to DeSilva this round. His control, even if it was a little shaky this round, kept Pope where he wanted him most of the time.
JASON JACKSON
Another 10-9 round for Bellamy DeSilva. The pressure is making all the difference here. Hats off to August Pope though. This kid can eat a punch, or elbow, or whatever you throw at him and he keeps on going. Heart for days. But Heart alone doesn’t win fights.
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ROUND THREE
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[Bellamy comes out and shoots for a double leg takedown! He hits it! August Pope is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull DeSilva into his guard. Bellamy DeSilva tries to pass August Pope's guard he manages to get his leg free and moves to half guard. DeSilva tries to open up Pope with a few strikes with his right elbow...Pope blocks those. Deep breaths from August Pope who tries a hammer punch to DeSilva's ribs. That hit DeSilva who moves on the ground in order to protect himself.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
AGAIN POPE COMES OUT OF THE GATE SWINGING!!!
[August Pope tries to turn in and scramble out. Bellamy DeSilva timed him perfectly and locks up a guillotine! August Pope slips his head out and manages to gain top control. August Pope is in open guard over DeSilva who lands a hammer punch to Pope's chest. August starts throwing a lot of punches with little effect. DeSilva is doing a great job covering himself up. DeSilva throws his legs up in a triangle attempt! August stands up and DeSilva gets back to his feet.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Pope needs to start conserving his energy. These heavy strikes he’s trying to land are only going to get less effective as this round goes on.
JASON JACKSON
Smart move standing up here. You wanna keep this on the feet I think. My man is going for non-stop submission attempts and the more exhausted you get the more apt you are to fall prey to one of them.
[Bellamy DeSilva throws a looping left hand… Pope moves aside and dodges. August moves forward looking for some grappling action and gets Bellamy in a textbook double collar thai clinch! DeSilva doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under August Pope embrace and tries to move away… August Pope pushes DeSilva forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch. Bellamy DeSilva pushes away again but Pope pushes off of Bellamy DeSilva and starts launching a flurry of hooks and body shots! DeSilva stumbles backwards but August Pope chases him and continues the rain of blows!]
JASON JACKSON
DESILVA IS IN TROUBLE NOW! HE’S ROCKED!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
THAT CLINCH HAS BEEN POPES SAVING GRACE DURING THIS FIGHT. HE NEEDS TO PUT BELLAMY AWAY WHILE HE CAN BEFORE DESILVA TRIES TO TAKE IT TO THE GROUND AGAIN!!!
[The fighters are clinching and Pope doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Bellamy DeSilva. Pope is determined to work from the clinch as he postures up and launches another series of punches! A lot of them are hitting DeSilva hard, who does his best to cover up. August Pope pushes away DeSilva trying to keep the fight at striking range. DeSilva stumbles backwards and August Pope circles to get the center of the cage.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
IT’S NOW OR NEVER, KID!!!
JASON JACKSON
August Pope, coming alive again here at the end of the fight. He’s behind so he really needs a finish… PUT HIM AWAY!
[A punch from August Pope grazes DeSilva's left cheek and DeSilva shoots in for the takedown. Pope gets lifted off of his feet and taken to the ground. DeSilva quickly looks for a leg lock! Pope is able to break free. Another attempt but the same results. Pope tries to close his guard around DeSilva. He succeeds! DeSilva struggles on the ground trying to break August Pope's guard…he fakes a move and then tries a kneebar! Pope rolls on the ground trying to get free and after a few kicks of his own he escapes. The fight resumes standing.]
[August Pope catches Bellamy DeSilva's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Pope. Pope tries to open up DeSilva with a few strikes with his right elbow...Some nice shots are landing and DeSilva is trying to block them with his hands...DeSilva tries to roll on the ground! Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over August Pope! DeSilva goes for an armbar! August Pope breaks the lock and pushes away Bellamy DeSilva, who rolls over his back and gets to standing position. Both fighters continue the fight on their feet to cheers from the crowd.]
JASON JACKSON
Nice takedown by Pope but it’s precious time wasted here as it came up fruitless. We’re closing in on the end of the round and barring something spectacular, this fight is going t lean toward Bellamy DeSilva.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Bellamy has done nothing but control the fight from the ground, I don’t think Pope had really thought that exchange through. All that momentum he had in the beginning of the round is fleeting fast it seems.
[Bellamy DeSilva tries to bring the fight to the ground but Pope won't budge, forcing DeSilva to pull guard. DeSilva launches a few weak punches. Pope blocks them effectively. August Pope is in closed guard over DeSilva. DeSilva tries to roll on the ground! Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over August Pope! Pope tries to move on the ground and shows Bellamy DeSilva a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow! Pope uses his forearms to block the impact! DeSilva suddenly holds August Pope's arm and tries an armbar! Pope can break the lock and now he is in a closed guard over Bellamy DeSilva! DeSilva launches a few weak punches and Pope blocks them effectively. Dusty Whittaker steps in though and tells the fighters to go to their corners as the fight is over.]
JASON JACKSON
Welp, that’s all for that one folks. That was a dog fight from bell to bell and both men should be proud of their performance here tonight. I think DeSilva takes the fight though, 30-27. What do you think, Warhead?
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Definitely a close fight for sure, with Pope finishing relatively strong. I think I might actually give him this round, but Bellamy comes out on top on my card at 29-28. I think this was a classic back and forth between a power striker and ground game specialist.
[The crowd cheers as both Pope and DeSilva give each other a quick fist bump before heading back to their corners. Each fighters’ respective coaches are hyping them up while the medical staff do their due diligence and work on any nicks and bruises. After the medics finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, after three rounds, we go to the judges’ scorecards. All three judges score it 30-27, declaring the winner by Unanimous Decision, “The Pride of Brazil” Bellamy DeSilva!
[The crowd cheers once again as DeSilva has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
JUDGE MIRANDA FRANCO
August Pope 9 9 9: 27
Bellamy DeSilva 10 10 10: 30
JUDGE MAX CARVER
August Pope 9 9 9: 27
Bellamy DeSilva 10 10 10: 30
JUDGE OZZIE SEBASTIAN
August Pope 9 9 9: 27
Bellamy DeSilva 10 10 10: 30
Winner: Bellamy DeSilva by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: August Pope
Punches 14/15 (93%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 10/16 (62%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 5/12 (42%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 464 s
Statistics: Bellamy DeSilva
Punches 20/34 (59%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 4/7 (57%)
Takedowns 6/8 (75%)
GnP strikes 8/40 (20%)
Submissions 13/13 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 464 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 Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 5-0. She stands 5’7”, and weighing in at 130 pounds. She is from Colchester, Essex, England, fighting out of The ScrapYard MMA, she is “Drosera Rotundifolia” Griffin Dawson!
[Griffin Dawson bows her head to her opponent to gesture a sign of respect and waves to the cheering crowd before bouncing back on her feet to stay loose.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Griff Dawson comes in tonight riding a two fight win streak since debuting in Union Grand Prix. She’s disciplined as a Muay Thai fighter under The ScrapYard MMA banner, but she’s really a jack of all trades. Nothing particular stands out in her skill set, but she’s able to utilize every aspect of the fight game to the fullest. Tonight is a big opportunity for her to test her striking to see where she measures up in the division, all the while having a potential title shot on the line.
JASON JACKSON
She’s backed by one of the best gyms in the sport and it’s been evident with her improvement in each of her fights. But like you said, this is her biggest challenge and she’s got the chance to elevate herself to a whole nother level, but she’s got to get through that firestorm that’s ahead of her tonight.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 12-9. She stands 5’4”, and weighing in at 125 pounds. She is from Queens, New York, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, she is Lena “Thugga” Lyons!
[Lena Lyons nods her head and gives a fierce stare down toward her opponent while staying in her stance.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
The one and only Thugga looks ready to further make her mark in the Bantamweight Division with her biggest opportunity in Union Grand Prix tonight. She's got two fights left in her current deal, and if the stars align, she could be looking at a big payday. She’s a fan favorite with her no nonsense approach to both life and combat, and it’s no different right now.
JASON JACKSON
Lena’s MMA career has had peaks and valleys all throughout and has never quite reached that ultimate goal. After her loss to Yasmine Vermeulen due to injury, she bounced back with a spectacular performance against a fighter with loads of potential in Dang Tay. Thugga has got the edge in the striking department in my eyes, and has some incredible quickness with her footwork. She needs to stay focused level headed and not get caught up in trading blows. Attack smart, and she’ll take this one. Now our referee Willie Green looks ready to get this fight going!
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ROUND ONE
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[The bell announces the first round. Dawson and Lyons circle around the center of the cage, looking for a moment, letting adrenaline sink in; searching for angles. You get the sense both of these fighters have a lot of respect for the other’s game, but eventually one had to make the first move and it was Griffin Dawson who moved in to shoot, Lyons tried to take her out quickly with a flying knee! But Dawson was able to move out of the way and look for a single leg takedown!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Lyons coming up with that wicked knee. Thank goodness Dawson got out of the way, or this fight would’ve been over already..
JASON JACKSON
Can you imagine training for months straight for a brawl and then being taken out in the opening seconds of the fight? That would have to be demoralizing.
[Lena Lyons wouldn’t budge and forced Dawson to pull guard. Lyons is in closed guard over Dawson and Griffin seems to be taking this opportunity to rest. Lyons looks for something to do, but Dawson just keeps moving and not allowing Thugga to do anything, in turn letting her cool the fight off on the ground. Lyons gets desperate and tries something, but instantly gets caught in a Triangle!]
JASON JACKSON
Dawson with a slick triangle attempt here.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Both of these women are coming into this fight like it’s round 5 of a championship fight, and maybe that’s because there is a title shot in the future for the winner of this fight, but man does it make for an exciting match-up.
JASON JACKSON
I’ll tell you what’s exciting…. That choke is so tight she looks like that angry dude from that Pixar movie. She’s turning crimson bro.
[Lyons struggles as her head begins turning red from the choke. She continues flailing, until she manages to get her head out of the hold and get some gasp of air. Lyons looks to ground and pound Dawson, but Dawson grabs a hold of Lyons’ arms and counters everything she tried to do with punches of her own to the sides of Thugga. Yet, there’s no real movement on the ground and Willie Green has seen enough forcing the fighters back to their feet.]
JASON JACKSON
Ooooh that was TIGHT THUGGA!! Your ass almost messed around and went to sleep out there! Tighten it up!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I agree, Lena needs to start mounting some real offense here. She started off with that strong knee, was almost choked out, and now her attempt to bring this to a ground game ended poorly.
JASON JACKSON
She up there praying to Samoan Baby Jesus the ref stood that fight back up.
[Dawson and Lyons circle the center of the cage and again is Dawson who takes the initiative hitting Lyons with a really hard straight right to the face that provokes a cut on Lyons’ left cheek. Even with the cut, Thugga moves forward and looks for some grappling action managing to sink in a textbook double collar thai clinch!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Lena Lyon’s is busted open, but she still manages to get that nasty thai clinch in. She powered through here, let’s see where she takes it.
JASON JACKSON
I know Lena pretty well. We were former teammates at Slaughta. I kow what’s coming next. Dawson wants no part of those knees.
[Lyons starts unleashing knees on the clinch, one, two, three, four! The knees keep coming; but Dawson doesn’t fall and even manages to block one of Lyons knees and pushes her away, breaking the clinch! Lyons keeps the pressure throwing some boxing combinations at her opponent, but Dawson shows great dodging ability until she shoots in, to grapple with Lyons; but Lena Lyons doesn’t want any part of that and ducks the clinching attempt from Griffin Dawson. The clock says 2:25 of the 1st round and as they circle around; Dawson shoots for a double leg takedown; but Lyons sprawls and stays on her feet. In the motion Dawson seemed to have lost some balance and Lyons jumped over her opponent looking to grapple, but sensing what was coming, Dawson moved out of the way making Lena fail in her grappling attempt.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
These women seem to have done excellent tape work on each other. Every time one of them seems to pull ahead in this fight, the other seems to negate all of that with their own momentum.
JASON JACKSON
It pays off to study your opponent. It’s like poker. You can learn the opponent’s tells and know when they are bluffing or have a good hand.. Maybe it’s a hitch in their step before they launch a certain attack, maybe it’s how they dip their head down when they come into throw. You pick up on these little things and when you’re out there in the fight they begin to materialize in front of you. You’re like, ah-ha. I’ve seen this. Now I can capitalize on this. Unfortunately, it’s a two-way street. So if your opp makes reads on you as well, then you get a deadlocked battle. A chess match. It’s fun to watch.
[Using the angle created by Lyons’ failed attempt at grappling, Dawson fakes a punch and launches herself over Lyons; who also manages to avoid the clinch game and pushes her opponent away utilizing the space she created to hit Dawson with a low kick that almost wrecked Dawson’s knee! Dawson is in pain, but she tries a leg kick of her own, but misses. Yet, feeding off the crowd, Dawson launches a front kick at Lyons that gets blocked!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Excellent work by Lyons. Dawson keeps trying to launch offense, so Lena decides to damage her leg, thus preventing her from getting anything too explosive or effective out. Brilliant strategy there.
[Lyons uses the two consecutive misses by Dawson to land some boxing combinations and take the best out of the exchange. Dawson backpedals a bit, but then comes flat-footed and throws an overhand right that gets blocked by Lyons; followed by a hook to the body that Lena Lyons managed to evade just in time. The clock says 3:40 of the 1st round and neither fighter seems to be giving up much ground to the other.]
JASON JACKSON
NASA could’ve seen that overhand coming. She planted herself completely and cocked back before she threw it. Telegraphed, live and in color.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Dawson keeps coming at Lyons, and Lyons keeps blocking or dodging. Hopefully, Dawson doesn’t use up all of her energy here. Yes, it’s good to hit your opponent with everything you got, but if it’s not being effective, then you’re wasting key opportunities.
JASON JACKSON
It’s good to set up your attacks too… not just wing big punches.
[Dawson and Lyons are back in the center of the cage and Dawson throws a low kick that seemed to be one to keep distance more than to do damage, as it missed badly. Lyons fell for it though and Dawson faked a shot and went for a spinning liver kick that got blocked by Lyons, who pushed Dawson away from her. In the same motion Dawson threw a looping left hand, but Lyons managed to duck under it and seeing the opening started raining a flurry of punches on Dawson that would be enough to worry any fighter’s corner.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Late in the first round and we start seeing the key striking I was talking about. Lyons waited for her moment and is now just letting Griffin Dawson HAVE IT.
JASON JACKSON
THUGGA THUGGA CHOOOO CHOOOO… That’s the Lena I’m used to seeing right there.
[The clock says 4:50 in the 1st round and Dawson finally managed to overcome the onslaught from Lyons; but failed to land a hook that could’ve given her an opening in the final seconds of the round. The referee stands between the fighters and the round ends.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Round One was definitely filled with stalemates and defense, but even though 4 minutes of the round was nothing too substantial, that last-minute definitely gave the round to Thugga.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, 10-9 Lyons for sure. Griff is still in this fight though. Don’t count her out. WInning one round doesn’t mean anything in the grand scheme of things. The second round is what matters here now. She needs to put the first behind her and focus on making this round hers.
=========================================
ROUND TWO
=========================================
[The second round began just as the first one ended, with both fighters not willing to give an inch to the other as Griffin Dawson launched a low kick at Lyons that got blocked. Lyons shoots a kick and Dawson manages to grab it; Lyons is in a bad spot here as Dawson looks to take her down. They struggled for a bit but Lyons’ great balance helped her push Dawson away, but the space was enough for Griffin Dawson to land an inside leg kick on Lyons.]
JASON JACKSON
There we go. DIal up that pressure. Bring the fight to her Griff. You need to take this round.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Dawson seems to be coming in hot, let’s hope her corner gave her some good adjustments to make in the second round.
[Dawson looked to keep the fight in her wheelhouse, trying to grapple; but Lyons wanted to maintain distance and countered Dawson’s attempt with a combination of punches that forced Dawson to defend. Dawson backed out and seemed hesitant to engage this time around. Lyons asks her to come in and Dawson obliged with a fake punch and a shot for a takedown. Lyons countered with a few jabs and then moved back. Dawson looks for a middle kick that gets blocked by Lyons. Griffin Dawson is getting desperate and she launches herself over Lyons with a flurry of punches and Lyons avoids getting cornered against the cage in that motion.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Not even halfway through the second round and already Griffin looks absolutely flustered.
JASON JACKSON
She has to get out of her own head. Sometimes your shots get blocked. Sometimes your opponent is great at evading. Sometimes you get left out here like a Pittsburgh Pirate, swinging at nothing but the air. You can’t let that deflate you. You have to alter your attack, think ahead, find a way to make your shots land. Maybe you need to set them up behind a feint, or switch things up… You have to make adjustments when your gameplan goes awry.
[Lyons has just been great in her defense and it’s obviously frustrating Dawson and her team who keep screaming instructions at her. Once more Griffin Dawson moved in to shoot; but Lyons delivered a knee that wrecked the Drosera Rotundifolia opening a small cut over her left eye. The clock says 2:30 in the 2nd round and Dawson seems to be gassing out. Nevertheless she goes in attempting a sweep single, but Lyons, again, shrugs off the takedown attempt forcing the fight to remain on the feet.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Dawson looks completely wiped after that knee. We might see this fight end in the next few minutes if Lena is willing to capitalize.
JASON JACKSON
Nasty shot. I told you, Dawson wants NO PART of those knees. Thugga has some nasty Muay Thai.
[Both fighters circle around the center of the ring and neither is looking to engage at the moment. Dawson seems tired and doesn’t seem like she wants to go in. Lyons is just waiting for a movement from Dawson to continue countering everything as she has been doing so far.]
[After a while, Dawson once more tries for the clinch; but Lyons moves backwards and circled around Dawson who is visibly upset and frustrated as nothing she’s been doing so far has been working. Lyons smiles at her opponent and this makes Dawson shoot in once more; this time she seemed to have more success as she managed to get Lyons to struggle in the grappling exchange; but ultimately Lyons managed to break the attempt. The two fighters exchange wildly in the center of the cage, with Lyons getting the better of the exchange as the referee steps in to signal the end of the round!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Lyons has had an answer for every single thing Griffin Dawson has tried to do, and honestly, it looks like Griff is just completely out of ideas. She needs to find something to target or create a moment FAST, because I don’t see this final round lasting long if she keeps this up.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, another 10-9 round for Lena, and this fight just slipped out of Griff’s grasp. She needs to finish here in this third round, Otherwise, it’s going to be Lyons getting her hand raised at the end of the night.
=========================================
ROUND THREE
=========================================
[At the start of the third round both fighters threw caution to the wind and started to exchange wildly with both fighters landing some good shots. Dawson looked for an inside leg kick that missed; but it allowed her to look for a spinning back kick!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Dawson is trying to come out strong here. Let’s hope she’s got a better gameplan for this final round.
JASON JACKSON
WHEW! That was what I was talking about! See! Set the big strikes up off feints or misses. She transitioned well into that wheel kick and that could’ve put the fight away right there. Dawson needs more of that, and pronto.
[Lyons managed to block the kick with her arms and leg; but this allowed Dawson to shoot in for the takedown and even if Lyons struggled with Dawson’s grappling; she managed to break the attempt. Griffin Dawson stepped backwards, breathing heavily, she’s obviously tired and frustrated so far; but keeps her pace trying to get Lyons to the ground but every single attempt she makes gets countered or swept by Lyons. A desperate Dawson dives for Lyons’ right leg and turns it into a foot lock attempt!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
FINALLY, GRIFFIN DAWSON GETS SOMETHING GOING!
JASON JACKSON
She’s coming alive now but is it too little, too late? Does she still have the gas int he tank to pull out a stoppage here?
[Lyons struggles as Dawson cranks up the hold; but finally is able to get the leg out of danger, leaving Griffin Dawson on the ground. Dawson is tired but looks to get up from her back; yet Lyons doesn’t allow her that luxury for the moment; yet after a while, she creates space and that allows Griffin Dawson to stand up.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Both of these women seem to have little energy left. Lyons definitely had Dawson where she wanted her, but did nothing to capitalize.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah man, they are exhausted and rightfully so. This fight just seems to keep slipping through Griffin Dawson’s fingers though. She had a chance to finish here and she just couldn’t capitalize.
[Lyons licks her lips as she goes for a couple of hooks to Griffin Dawson’s body that rock her ribs a bit. Dawson tries to counter with a quick low kick; but again, gets blocked. This doesn’t deter Dawson who enters an exchange with Lyons that gets the crowd roaring.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
LENA AND GRIFFIN DECIDE TO THROW ALL OF THE NICETIES AWAY AND JUST GO AT IT NOT EVEN HALFWAY THROUGH THE FINAL ROUND!!!
JASON JACKSON
Gotta love a good ol’ FIIIIIIIIIIREFIGHT. This crowd is eating it up.
[The clock says 2:15 in the 3rd round; and we continue seeing the same. Dawson is throwing low kicks that get blocked by Lyons. This time around, Lena Lyons won’t stop raining down punches on Griffin Dawson and has her in trouble. Dawson tries to counter with an uppercut, but Lyons slips it and connects with a jab.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Lena with another block and another counter. She knows she’s firmly in control with the judges and is just letting Griffin blow herself up so that she can either hit the big KO or get the decision.
JASON JACKSON
Wait, did you say she was going to blow her or nah? I think I misunderstood that.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
No. No, I did not.
JASON JACKSON
Just checkin.
[Another low kick from Griffin Dawson that gets deflected by Lyons. Not seeing anything going her way thus far, Dawson steps away and studies her opponent looking for a hole in her defense. Once more, Dawson tries to close the range by grappling; but Lena Lyons doesn’t want anything like this and moves backwards. Yet, this seems to be what Dawson was expecting to happen as immediately she spins around and connects with a beautiful spinning back fist that lands flush on Lyons’ chin!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
GRIFFIN DAWSON WITH AN ABSOLUTE MASTERPIECE OF A BACKFIST HITTING LYON’S RIGHT IN THE MONEY MAKER!!!
JASON JACKSON
See! There again she used the level change and the takedown threat to follow through with that motherfucker of a back fist. I think she’s listening to me Warhead.
[The hit stunned Lyons and allowed Dawson a few seconds to recover her breath. Now it is Lyons who is backpedaling, as she tries throwing some jabs but gets countered by Griffin Dawson and the two land some great punches on the other. The time to recover allowed Dawson to regain some momentum and now she shoots for a clinch, but again, Lyons wants nothing of that and pushes Dawson away.]
JASON JACKSON
You don’t have the time to be clinching right now.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Griffin has to capitalize and go for the knockout if she wants to win this fight now. She had her opening, she just has to do something with it.
JASON JACKSON
Hugging her right now ain’t going to help. Especially because Lena is a monster in close.
[The clock says 3:55 in the 3rd round and both fighters continue their dance; as Dawson tries once more to grapple and gets ducked by Lyons. Dawson keeps the pace, but it seems to be costing her as she seems completely gassed out. Lyons eyes her opportunity and grabs the best of the punching exchange.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
WE’VE GOT SIXTY SECONDS, CAN WE STILL GET TO SEE A KNOCKOUT???
JASON JACKSON
ROCK-EM SOCK-EM ROBOTS AS WE COME DOWN THE FINAL STRETCH!!!!
[Dawson moves backwards and looks for a takedown that gets sprawled as Thugga remains on her feet. Dawson sloppiness got countered by a vicious High Kick from Lyons and Dawson looks hurt. The two hear the taps on the mat and begin exchanging wildly; as the buzzer sounds and the referee ends the fight!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I honestly don’t know how you don’t give this fight as a 30-27 for Lena Lyons. She blocked, countered, dodged, and reversed just about everything Griffin threw at her, and even ended with what probably could’ve been a stoppage of some kind if they had another minute or so. Thugga proved just how great she is tonight, and that whoever walks away from the main event as champion, better watch out.
JASON JACKSON
Yo, the last minute and a half of that fight was wild. I fuck with that. It’s undoubted that Lena secured this victory tonight and if the judges say otherwise they are on crack. 30-27 Lena Lyons. Thugga gets herself back in the win column.
[The crowd cheers as both Lyons and Dawson head back to their corners. Each fighters’ respective coaches are hyping them up while the medical staff do their due diligence and work on any nicks and bruises. After the medics finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, after three rounds, we go to the judges’ scorecards. The judges score it 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28 declaring the winner by Unanimous Decision, Lena “Thugga” Lyons!
[The crowd cheers once again as Lyons 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.]
JUDGE MIRANDA FRANCO
Lena Lyons 10 10 10: 30
Griffin Dawson 9 9 9: 27
JUDGE MAX CARVER
Lena Lyons 10 10 10: 30
Griffin Dawson 9 9 9: 27
JUDGE OZZIE SEBASTIAN
Lena Lyons 9 10 10: 29
Griffin Dawson 10 9 9: 28
Winner: Lena Lyons by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Lena Lyons
Punches 36/46 (78%)
Kicks 3/4 (75%)
Clinch strikes 0/3 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/5 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 29 s
Statistics: Griffin Dawson
Punches 2/34 (6%)
Kicks 0/16 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/6 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 2/2 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/6 (0%)
Time on the ground 41 s
[As the dust settles from the previous Bantamweight bout, the cameras cut to cageside where we see Dylan Carter standing next to the bossman of Union GP.]
DYLAN CARTER
Ladies and gentlemen, I'm standing cageside here with Union Grand Prix President Dante Reed and Dante first I have to ask, how does it feel putting on the 20th flagship event?
DANTE REED
It's incredible. We wanted a big card for this milestone, and I have to say we delivered. We love doing these signature events because they're so big. You get to see the future of the sport during the early prelims, those that are ascending during the Network Prelims, and then the contenders here on the main card.
DYLAN CARTER
Speaking of the main card fights, we've got two title bouts headlining the card, but we've also got a handful of fights matching top three or four contenders against each other. So far we've seen Bellamy DeSilva and Lena Lyons go the distance and score unanimous decision victories, are they up next for title shots?
DANTE REED
You know, I don't normally like to go out and say this person or that person’s next, because the reality of it all is matchmaking is a process, especially for title fights. Those are our money makers and our top billed fights, so we have to make sure we get it right. We have to look and see who's available to fight, who's been the most impressive in their last couple of outings, who's garnering the attention from fans and the MMA community — things like that. It's easy to say that, yes, the number one ranked contender is next up, but it doesn't always work that way. However, Bell and Lena knew what was potentially at stake, and they went out and delivered. With Lena, she's earned her right for a shot, but we gotta see how the main event plays out and see what our options are afterwards. With Bellamy, I think it's safe to say that his next fight will be with Delaney.
DYLAN CARTER
So you say it's not as cut and dry to say the number one contender is next up, so what can we expect to see with the Lightweight Division with Natalie King having secured that number one ranking for some time now but possibly getting leapfrogged by DeSilva?
DANTE REED
This is what I mean. I don't think anyone would argue that Natalie King is the top contender at 155, but she's faced Donovan twice now and came up short both times. She lost in a split decision the first go-round, but I didn't think it was that close, I had Delaney winning all five of those rounds. The second time he didn't leave it to the judges and finished her off. I just don't foresee King getting another title fight as long as Donovan is holding it. I haven't spoken to her about it yet, but there has been rumors of her moving weight classes and personally I would like to see her potentially move down to 135. I don't think it would be a massive cut for her, and it would open up a whole new field of opponents. But that's something we'll have to discuss in the future.
DYLAN CARTER
It seems as though the Cruiserweight Division is in a similar situation.
DANTE REED
Yeah, I mean we did the trilogy fight with Roscoe and Fisk to finish up 2019, and yet Fisk has been up there as a top one or two contender. I know most of the fans would probably be fine with a fourth fight, but I just don't see it anytime soon. I think for Fisk, outside of having another shot at Roscoe, he's waiting for the Openweight Division to kick-off.
DYLAN CARTER
Oh, do we have any updates on the Openweight Division? When can we expect to see this rolled out?
DANTE REED
It's taken some time to really iron out all the wrinkles and nail down all of the details and specifics. We wanted to kickoff a tournament for it on this card, but unfortunately the commissions in the U.S. won't sign off on it. So we've been in some contact with the promoter for G2 about the potential of doing some crossovers and the like, but I think for the Openweight fights we're going to have to do them overseas. I'm hoping to get a tournament or round robin together for UGP 21, but we first have to do some recruiting to get the fighters on board.
DYLAN CARTER
That's exciting news to hear! I'm sure fight fans across the world will be thrilled to see this in action. So outside of the Openweight, what can we expect to see in the future for the rest of the divisions?
DANTE REED
We've got a list of potential title fights for Heavyweight and Middleweight; those two divisions have become pretty solid and steady from top to bottom. However, with 225 and 155, it's become a bit top-heavy. We've got a couple of true contenders deserving of a shot, but then a majority of young, untested contenders. Last summer we did a Championship Grand Prix in all five divisions, this summer we may be looking at two, maybe three Contender Grand Prix tournaments. Winners earn a title fight, and hell, maybe I'll even throw in a nice cash prize for good measure.
DYLAN CARTER
That would certainly help give these new fighters a chance to shine and find a deserving contender for the title. One final question, with the consistent rate of signing all of these new fighters, what about Everest MMA? What's the latest on that project?
DANTE REED
Well I can say, after talking with a few people about it, the project has now become a promotion. We originally wanted Everest to be a seasonal playoff format contest, but with the growth in fighters, we've decided to do the work and licensing to turn it into our own development company. We just had our last wave of signings last week to the Union GP roster, and from here on out, all newly turned pro fighters will go through Everest first. We think it will be a great platform for fighters starting out to get their feet wet on the pro circuit, and ensure they are ready for the big stage. We have hired a legend of the sport to head this initiative while also recruiting for the Union brand.
DYLAN CARTER
Ok so I lied. One. Last. Question. Who is this legend that's in charge of it all?
DANTE REED
Ha. You'll find out later tonight. She's a multiple time champion and someone we've been interested in bringing on board in any capacity possible since day one. Her role will be as Vice President of Talent Relations. With her resume, she'll have no problem scouting and recruiting talent for the future.
DYLAN CARTER
Well I can't wait to find out who this person is. Thank you Dante for taking the time with me.
DANTE REED
My pleasure, Dylan.
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 4-3. He stands 5’11”, and weighing in at 175 pounds. He is from Miami, Florida, fighting out of 9th World Performance Institute, he is the former Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion, “Simba” Asher Jrue!
[Asher Jrue rolls his neck and shoulders to keep loose while paying no attention to the cheering fans or any concerns on his opponent across the octagon.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Asher Jrue is a generational talent. He made a huge splash in his debut fight with a Performance of the Night bonus, and has continued to ascend when he captured the title against arguably the GOAT of MMA. He’s done it all the while becoming one of the youngest champions, however, he’s coming in tonight on a skid with a two-fight losing streak and looking to get back on top.
JASON JACKSON
When you look at who Jrue has been up against, it would make a typical 19-20 year old crumble. But yet, Simba has already accomplished so much and still has so much mileage left on him. He’s obviously looking to rebound against one of the top tier competitors in the 185 pound division tonight and work towards that trilogy fight against The Primarch, or even a rematch against Zion Momo’a, depending on how things play out later tonight.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 15-6. He stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Atlanta, Georgia, fighting out of the Lion’s Den FC Las Vegas, he is “The Silver Tongued Devil” Aries Reed!
[Aries Reed raises two clenched fists in the air to acknowledge the fans tonight while keeping a sharp eye on his opponent ahead of him.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Aries Reed is steadily becoming a pioneer in this sport. He’s an incredible fighter and co-founder of one of the fastest rising gyms, and yet he’s still got a lot of goals to accomplish. He’s coming in riding a three-fight win streak and looking to make it four in a row.
JASON JACKSON
If he gets the win tonight, you know he’ll be looking for another crack at the title. His only two losses in Union GP have come at the hands of the best Middleweight Champions; the inaugural champ Cristian Bonanno and the current champ Robert Guilliman. You have to believe he feels a bit slighted getting passed up by Zion Momo’a for the Co-Main Event title fight tonight, a guy who he TKO’ed in his last outing. If he wins tonight, there’s no question in my mind this guy got next for a title fight. The referee of the bout, Jordan Ripley is now checking off with each man one last time and is ready to get this fight started!
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[As the referee calls for the start of the fight, Reed and Jrue touch gloves in the center of the ring as a sign of respect. They start circling around each other, looking for an opening, showing some caution. Aries Reed feints a punch, mostly to measure the distance between him and Jrue; then he shows some footwork moving aside. Then it all begins, Reed uses his new position to rain punches on Jrue; and Simba might be in trouble early on. Asher Jrue manages to combat the early flurry and begin a wild exchange of punches with Reed. Both are connecting and if either lands a lucky punch this might be the end of it.]
JASON JACKSON
LET’S GO! THROW THEM HANDS, FELLAS!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
THIS IS WHAT UNION GP IS ALL ABOUT HERE!
[The exchange continues to the wild reception of the crowd, Reed seems to have a small cut over his left eye but he continues charging against Jrue. The early onslaught seems to have vanished a bit, as both fighters miss wildly with some of their punches and move back as the clock says 1:00 of the 1st round. Jrue seems to be fighting backward because Reed is now moving forward trying to get the fight to his advantage looking for a clinch. Simba fights Reed off, but ultimately The Silver Tongued Devil manages to grab a hold of Jrue who struggles to push him away, looking to keep the fight at a striking distance. Reed doesn’t budge as he continues grappling Asher Jrue in the clinch. Jrue tries ducking under Reed’s embrace looking to move away from the clinch, but Reed continues holding him tight and capitalizes on Jrue’s missed move by hitting Simba’s ribs hard with punches from the clinch.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Jrue looks trapped in the clinch there.
JASON JACKSON
Slowing the pace down here with some in-fighting. You’ve really gotta be careful here with Aries. He generates a LOT of power in close here. Those body shots are brutal.
[There’s visible pain in Jrue’s face as he continues to struggle to find a way to break the clinch, but a sparkle of creativity seemed to cross Asher Jrue as he pulled Reed closer to him and managed to block some of his dirty boxing; allowing Jrue to counter with a series of punches of his own that seemed to have hurt Reed who now seems to be looking for a way to regain his earlier position. Jrue continues his striking from the clinch, but gets blocked by Reed who counters with another series of hard punches to Jrue’s ribs. Jrue struggles but finally finds a way of breaking the clinch by pushing Reed off of him.]
[Both fighters are circling the center of the cage as they look for an opening. The cut over Reed’s eye has begun to swell after the clinch and there’s a trickle of blood coming down his cheek, but he doesn’t seem to mind as he lands a nasty uppercut that lands clean on Jrue. Asher backs off and launches a kick, but Reed catches it and lands flush with a counter hook that rocked Asher Jrue.]
JASON JACKSON
Nasty sequence of punches by my former almost brother-in-law here. Asher Jrue is rocked here hard by that counter hook.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Asher is getting picked apart here. If he wants to survive to the next round, he has to stop making mistakes like this.
[Jrue seems to be backpedaling as Reed comes in and he just throws strikes to keep Reed at a distance. Jrue finally stands still and tries to land an overhand on Reed, but Reed ducks it and counters with a solid straight punch that causes Jrue’s forehead to start swelling!]
[Asher Jrue is hurt and Aries Reed knows it, as he comes in and grabs Jrue with a double underhook for the clinch. Both fighter’s struggle in the clinch, as Jrue looks to survive the onslaught. As the clock hits 2:20 in the 1st round; Reed seems to have taken the clinch as an opportunity to breathe and the referee, Jordan Ripley, seeing the lack of activity gets in the clinch and separates the fighters.]
JASON JACKSON
Good separation here. Simba is looking worse for wear here though. I’m not sure if he has his legs under him but he said he’s ready to continue so here we go.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Reed not only has complete control of this fight, but basically just used his clinch to wear out Asher while regrouping and catching his breath. Brilliant work by Aries.
[Both Jrue and Reed now go back to the center of the cage. Jrue’s forehead seems to be causing him troubles as he closes his eyes every now and then. Reed’s cut continues to swell, but both fighters are still in this and Jrue tries his best throwing a good 1-2 combination, but Reed manages to avoid both strikes and counter with another solid straight punch that hits cleanly in Jrue’s forehead! Reed continues looking for angles, throwing jabs that are countered by Asher Jrue’s punches. But Reed finally founds the angle he wanted and decided to test Jrue’s chin with a vicious uppercut at the same time Jrue landed a great cross on Reed. Reed stumbles backward, but the uppercut left Jrue sleeping peacefully on the canvas! The referee steps in and stops the fight!]
JASON JACKSON
JENGA! WOP! LIGHTS OUT FOR ASHER JRUE!!! WHAT A PERFORMANCE BY ARIES REED!!!!
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
WHAT AN UPPERCUT!!! BOY AM I GLAD I’M RETIRED!!!
JASON JACKSON
You’ve gotta think he’s next in line for the winner of the Middleweight bout we have later tonight. The Silver Tongued Devil, ladies, and Gents. Winner by Highlight reel KO.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Completely agree, Jackson, Aries Reed made that knockout look way too easy. That man is definitely ready for another shot at the Middleweight Championship
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Aries Reed is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration, most notably his wife and gym co-founder Megan Reed. Doctors tend to Jrue for a while before finally helping him to his feet. After doctors and cut men finish their work on both fighters, they 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-six seconds in the very first round, for your winner by 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 KO (Punches) at 2:56 Round 1
Statistics: Aries Reed
Punches 11/16 (69%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 3/9 (33%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Asher Jrue
Punches 8/9 (89%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 3/5 (60%)
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 scene opens to a stormy morning over the Real KILLAS compound - a lightning strike parting the sky. However, “The Primarch” Robert Guilliman is shown walking through the door, clad in an ultramarine tank top and matching trunks. He comes through the storm into the Real KILLAS awards hall, where the Union GP Middleweight Title still hangs. As he walks in slow motion, the camera transitions to the footage of his victory against Asher Jrue.]
UGP #18
[Guilliman and Jrue trade strikes wildly in the center of the cage, until Jrue lands another nasty straight left haymaker down the pipe that backs Guilliman up quickly, and forces him to recalculate. Jrue doesn’t want to give him time to breathe however, and he steps forward…. right into a calculated head kick from Robert Guilliman!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER (Voiceover)
Asher Jrue is rocked!...
CARRICK PRICE (Voiceover)
Blood is EVERYWHERE and Simba’s on his bike...
[After this, the camera shows Guilliman climbing up the Real KILLAS camp cage one more time, as the lights on the room slowly begin to come on...]
“THE PRIMARCH” ROBERT GUILLIMAN (Voiceover)
It was the fight of my life. It was the moment that could end my career. And it was ALMOST there.
[Once Guilliman moves to the center of the cage, he stands still and delivers a challenging stare to the camera, arms folded, as the scene transitions to the UGP #18 fight. Jrue blocks a Primarch strike decisively, and he knocks Guilliman off balance enough to charge forward with a bone shattering straight left hand. Robert Guilliman hits the canvas on his derriere from the impact, and he seems really hurt here. “Simba'' runs to capitalize, looking to put the fight away!]
TOUSSAINT HARPER
And Jrue fires back!
JASON JACKSON
… THIS IS NUTS!
[The scene transitions to a close-up of the Primarch’s face, a wild stare in his eyes as he stands still and silent, before it finally shows the end of the fight where he recaptured the title. As Jrue comes in to finish the fight, he’s met by a pinpoint, rising head kick from hell. The kick, which can only be explained by comparing it to a soccer player shooting a volley into a net with a Pelé kick, lands shin-to-chin and “Simba” crumples like a sack full of bricks on the canvas, stiff as a board. Robert Guilliman pushes himself back upright and bows to the downed fighter, before walking off to his corner as the medics pour in!]
JASON JACKSON
What the FUCK was that kick?... I’ve never in my fucking life. HE CALLED THAT SHIT! ...
TOUSSAINT HARPER
UNBELIEVABLE! Robert Guilliman stops this fight with a head kick on the ground!... The Primarch is once again the Middleweight Champion!...
CARRICK PRICE
What a damn kick. Wow. Just wow...
[The crowd cheers once again as Guilliman has his hand raised in victory…]
MIKE DEMPSEY
… your winner by knockout, AAAAAAAAAAND NEEEEEEEEEEEW UNION GRAND PRIX MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION, ”THE PRIMARCH”... ROBEEEEEEEEEEEEERT... GUILLIMAAAAAAAAAAAAANNNNNNN!...
[... before the scene goes back to the cage, and Guilliman posing with the title firmly wrapped around his waist.]
“THE PRIMARCH” ROBERT GUILLIMAN (Voiceover)
But the Union GP Middleweight Title is now back where it belongs. Around MY waist, and on the Real KILLAS wall.
[Lightning strikes once again, and the camera transitions to a shot of the Primarch shadowboxing in slow motion, launching jabs and crosses into the air.]
“THE PRIMARCH” ROBERT GUILLIMAN (Voiceover)
Now I face another young and hungry lion once again in Zion Momo’a, who has come back from a tight spot after his loss to me.
[Lightning strikes once again, and the camera transitions to a shot of the Primarch shadowboxing in slow motion, launching jabs and crosses into the air. He then turns on his heel and fires one of his trademark spinning kicks.]
“THE PRIMARCH” ROBERT GUILLIMAN (Voiceover)
Zion definitely has the talent. He has what it takes to push me as he did the first time we have faced. Though he did not manage to defeat me, he did take me past the second round to beat him. Every other opponent, including Asher Jrue, fell in the first.
[As the rain continues to pour in the window outside, Guilliman now hammers on the heavy bag, the slow motion effect making every blow that lands upon the bag - a jab, a cross, a left roundhouse, a right roundhouse, another spinning kick - look like a cannon blast that rocks it back and forth.]
“THE PRIMARCH” ROBERT GUILLIMAN (Voiceover)
But beat him before I have. And beat him again I will. For this title that I have recaptured NEEDS to be defended again. Not just for myself or for the KILLAS, but for the entire Union GP Middleweight Division. Now we have young lions stepping up, ready to prove their worth. The old names have moved on, the names that were the greatest when I was fighting for the title. Edan McLeod. Byron McCall. During that time, it was my name that kept the Division on notice. And as the Middleweight Division has come to life once more, it again falls to me to be the man to beat. Because right now, it is not just the eyes of my own Division that are fixed upon me.
[The scene transitions to the Primarch, this time sprawled on the mat, making slap push-ups with a partner under Cipriano Carvalho’s watchful eye.]
“THE PRIMARCH” ROBERT GUILLIMAN (Voiceover)
There are rumors of Natalie King making the switch to Middleweight. There are expectations of me signing up to the upcoming Openweight Tournament. There is the very own Lightweight Champion Delaney Donovan calling my name as the man to fight. And why is that?
[As the training session ends, and the Primarch rises, the scene transitions to earlier footage one more time, this time showing Guilliman as he walks out towards the cage, flanked by the Real KILLAS corner, received by a huge ovation, and carrying the American flag on his shoulders.]
“THE PRIMARCH” ROBERT GUILLIMAN (Voiceover)
Because I have been the best. I AM the best. I can claim without boast to be the Greatest Of All Time, and I am NOT done being it just yet. So for the Middleweight Division, for the Real KILLAS, and for ALL the people uttering my name as THE guy to beat, UGP #20 is the time I prove it. It is the time to make the division shine above every other. And unfortunately for Zion Momo’a...
[The camera transitions for the final time to the Primarch inside the empty cage, the spotlights of the room fixed on him as he holds the Union GP Middleweight Title up in the air.]
“THE PRIMARCH” ROBERT GUILLIMAN (Voiceover)
… that means that one more time, I am going to put his lights out.
[Abruptly, the spotlights turn off, and the scene fades to black.]
♫
YOU'RE AFRAID
LIKE I MAKE MY DEALS WITH THE DEVIL
YOU'VE BEEN AT IT FOR YEARS
BUT COULDN'T REACH THAT NEXT LEVEL
♫
["2nd Sucks” by A Say to Remember shreds over the loudspeaker and Zion Momo’a emerges to the stage wearing his black and blue walkout fight kit with crew members from his 36th Street MMA camp following behind. Momo’a bobs his head to the music as he slowly makes the walk to the cage.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
The Blasian Buzzsaw is back at it with another shot at the title here tonight. Momo’a has been on a steady roll as of late, coming in tonight on a three fight winning streak. In his last outing, he took down former Middleweight Champ Asher Jrue with a third round TKO stoppage. We’ve mentioned how Zion has bulked up during this run and has really found his footing in this division.
JASON JACKSON
Aye no question, Zion has been throwing bombs with the added weight. Some questioned whether it would slow him down, but he’s still fast as ever but now brings some serious heat with his striking. This is a different fighter from the first time these two met, and I’m hyped to see it unfold.
[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.]
♫
"ANGELS OF DEATH" BY DOYLE D. DONEHOO
BEGINS TO PLAY
♫
[The arena lights die down for a brief moment as the chords of "Angels of Death by Doyle D. Donehoo blare throughout the P.A. system, then flicker between blue and white as "The Primarch" Robert Guilliman strides out of the entrance. The crowd grows with cheers to show their adoration for the lethal champion. Guilliman makes his way down the aisle with members of the Real Killas camp following close behind.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I know by now we have to sound like broken records, but what else can be said about Robert Guilliman that hasn’t been said ad nauseam? The guy comes out here and gives everything he has in his body, and his track record shows it.
JASON JACKSON
Two-time Champ. Check. 2019 Championship Grand Prix Winner. Check. 2019 Fighter of the Year. Check. You know, it’s crazy to think that the consensus is that MMA is a young man’s sport, but Guilliman shatters that notion. I know he spoke earlier about wanting to set a new record for title defenses, but if he accomplishes that, what else is left for Primarch? My vote is going after and becoming UGP’s first two division champ. But before we can fantasize about that, Guilly’s got a tough hurdle to pass tonight.
[Guilliman marches down the aisle decidedly, with a heavy air of concentration about him, then salutes solemnly to the audience and staff. He finally reaches cageside, where he strips down and gets checked by the fight official. Once he’s been cleared, he enters the cage and starts a small warm-up routine.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Co-Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Illinois State Athletic 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 and it’s for the Union Grand Prix Middleweight Championship. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 7-3. He stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Los Angeles, California, fighting out of 36th Street MMA, he is “The Blasian Buzzsaw” Zion Momo’a!
[Zion Momo'a shifts back and forth intently as he controls his breathing and nods his head toward the champion.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 10-2. He stands 6’1”, and weighing in at 185 pounds. He is from Los Angeles, California, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, he is the reigning, defending, undisputed Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion of the World, “The Primarch” Robert Guilliman!
[The fans are cheering for this fighter. You can hear Primarch chants all around the place! Guilliman looks like he has been waiting for this fight forever as he waits patiently in his corner.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
We are all set and ready to go for this Co-Main Event matchup. This is the second time these men meet inside the cage, and the challenger, Zion Momo’a, is looking to even the score. Our referee for this contest is the one and only Herschel Warden. He checks off with each fighter and he’s calling for the bell! And here we go!
[The Middleweight Championship fight gets underway with a touch of gloves as both fighters meet in the middle. There’s no feeling out process at the opening of this fight, though--the two start trading punches straight off the bell, with Zion getting the best of the opening exchange and causing Guilliman to take a step back and circle away. Zion moves in, but gets tagged with an inside leg kick that stops him for a moment. Guilliman circles as Zion remains in the center of the cage, beckoning for an exchange, which Guilliman responds to with a tentative punch, more to gauge distance than anything. Zion pushes forward with a couple of jabs that land, but get answered with a powerful straight right that sends him back a half-step!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
The Champion putting Zion in his place with that right!
JASON JACKSON
Oh. That straight was nasty. I think that may have fucked up his orbital there. ZIon is rubbing at his eye a bit after that shot landed. That could change the whole fight.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
A few seconds into this fight, and Momo’a could possibly have a some sort of facial fracture already.
[Zion feints a punch then shoots for a single-leg takedown. Guilliman does his best to free his leg, but eventually he’s taken down and Zion passes straight into side-mount! Guilliman clearly doesn’t want to be underneath Zion, and moves to try to escape back to his feet, but Zion keeps him firmly in place. Guilliman again tries to escape, but Zion keeps him in check before using his own momentum against him, and passing into mount! Guilliman’s escape attempts get a little more frantic, but Zion’s able to maintain his control for the most part--until the Champion switches his tactic up, and shrimps to half-guard instead, then to full-guard. Zion attempts to pass into a better position, but Guilliman’s able to block several different attempts. However, he’s not doing anything but blocking transitions, and Zion’s unable to move, so eventually, Herschel Warden stands them back up.]
JASON JACKSON
Good job there by the ref. They were just jockeying for position with no real work being done. I think Momo’a is really struggling with that eye because I’ve never seen this kid be one to shoot for a takedown.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I think you’re right Jason, but at least Zion is trying to keep Guilliman in a defensive mode so that way his eye can’t be a target.
[Straight off the restart, Guilliman launches a ferocious high kick that connects soundly with the side of Zion’s head! He stumbles a step or two backwards, and it looks like he might be done--until Guilliman moves in for the kill, and Zion’s able to shoot a desperation double-leg that takes the Champion back to the mat! After a second to recover his senses, Zion’s able to pass into half-guard, then into side-mount with relative ease! Guilliman tries to recover his guard, but Zion reverses him straight into mount!]
JASON JACKSON
GOOD LORD. How did that kick not kill him?! Zion is tough as nails man… but I think he’s dead in the water here. I honestly think he’s hurt.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Zion is doing everything in his power to survive just to the next round. I think he knows he’s hurt bad, and just on instinct, he’s trying to make sure Robert Guilliman can’t capitalize on that.
JASON JACKSON
That Warrior mentality man.
[However, he’s not able to hold the position long--Guilliman turns him over to his back, but Zion’s able to secure his guard. Guilliman tries to pass Zion’s guard, but Zion blocks the move, so the Champion changes tactics and peppers Zion’s ribs with a few punches that, while they connect, don’t do much more than annoy the Challenger. Guilliman launches a few more punches, but they don’t do much more than the last few, before the bell rings to end the round.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
You’ve got to be proud of Zion’s effort here. He knows something is wrong, and no matter how much offense The Champion hits him with, Zion finds a way to keep him from capitalizing. The round HAS to go to Primarch, but Zion is doing a good job at surviving right now.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, definitely 10-9 for the champion. I’m surprised the doctor isn’t coming in to take a look at that orbital. I think it may be busted. If I were Zion’s coach I’d probably call in the doc or call the fight. Something isn’t right.
[Round two begins with Guilliman throwing a looping right hand that almost catches Zion off guard--almost. He sees it coming at just the last second, and manages to side-step the punch, launching a few counter jabs that tag the Champion on the chin. However, Guilliman goes back to what’s worked for him in the past, and throws a powerful roundhouse to the head, and while Zion manages to block most of the impact, there’s some now VERY visible swelling under his left eye. Guilliman follows up with that overhand right again, this time connecting with Zion’s nose--but, somehow, the Challenger is still on his feet!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
ZION REFUSES TO GO DOWN!!!
JASON JACKSON
Pure heart here from the challenger. I’m not sure what is keeping him in this fight other than his sheer determination to be champion. The reigning champion is putting on a master class, however, and Zion’s eye looks roooough. I’d throw in the towel. Let him fight another day. I know what it takes to get these opportunities but it’s not worth a severe injury.
[Zion’s punches get more wild, more to keep Guilliman at range than anything, but he does land a few punches in the exchange. Guilliman tries to press his advantage, but Zion’s able to keep him at bay, even landing a few solid shots that keep the Champion honest. Another high kick from Guilliman, this time parried by Zion, but followed up by a body kick that Zion only barely manages to block.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I don’t think Zion is there anymore. I think he’s just running on instinct now. That block was weak, but it’s the only reason he’s still moving right now.
JASON JACKSON
Man, every time he uncorks one of those kicks I flinch. Each one could be the end. Each one can end someone’s night but Momo’a is still eating them. He’s still pushing forward despite the damage he’s absorbed courtesy of the champ.
[The punches come in bunches now, but without the accuracy either man would like until Zion connects with a straight shot that stuns Guilliman as he was winding up that overhand once again! Guilliman retreats a few steps, and as Zion approaches, he connects with a front kick to the chest that Zion only barely manages to block the brunt of the impact. Guilliman pushes forward with a few jabs, followed by a straight kick just below Zion’s knee that looks like it hyper-extends his left leg!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Guilliman reminds me a lot of myself when I would fight back in the day, though I’m not sure that even in my prime, I’d be able to handle one of Primarch’s kicks, let alone as many as Zion has eaten tonight.
JASON JACKSON
Big shot from Momo’a stumbles the champ, but “The Primarch” Marches forward and answers back by buckling the leg of the challenger with a well placed oblique kick.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I think if The Blasian Buzzsaw walks away with just a black eye and a just a hyper-extended knee, he walked away a lot better than most would have.
[That’s followed up by a roundhouse kick to the body, then another--or, so Zion thinks. Guilliman switches his kick into a Question Mark kick, and with Zion’s guard low, there’s nothing he can do to block the impact. Guilliman’s kick drops another challenger, and he knows it-- as he’s already turned to celebrate with his corner, long before Herschel Warden steps in to officially end the fight.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Once again, The Primarch Robert Guilliman stands tall at the top of the Middleweight division by kicking his opponent into oblivion. Zion has nothing to be ashamed of in this bout, I think that if he hadn’t injured the eye early in the fight, this could’ve gone a lot longer. Both fighters showed how good they are tonight, and they should be proud of their performances.
JASON JACKSON
Damn. Another challenger put to rest with that infamous head kick. This man is unstoppable at this point but If I’m correct it will be Aries Reed who gives it another shot next. Hopefully, Momo’a is okay and bounces back soon. Tonight was “The Primarch’s” night however and he is STILL the UGP Middleweight Champ.
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Guilliman is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to ZIon 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 thirty-nine seconds in the second round, for your winner by technical knockout, AND STILL the undisputed Union Grand Prix Middleweight Champion of the World, “The Primarch” Robert Guilliman!
[The crowd cheers once again as Guilliman 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: Robert Guilliman by TKO (High Kick) at 2:39 Round 2
Statistics: Robert Guilliman
Punches 11/26 (42%)
Kicks 10/12 (83%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/3 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 201 s
Statistics: Zion Momo'a
Punches 24/29 (83%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 201 s
♫
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.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Coming to the octagon now is the inaugural Bantamweight Champion who’s looking to add a second reign to her resume tonight. Lauren Moore has always been all smiles and not really one to be vocal in the lead ups to her fights, despite the gym she trains at, the two-time camp of the year Real Killas. But best believe she’s been focused on getting this title fight since losing the strap to her fellow campmate Zari Aliyah.
JASON JACKSON
In my eyes, Lauren Moore is one of the most underrated fighters we've seen here. Because she's not all rah-rah look at me, people tend to overlook her, until she steps in the cage. Her wrestling is world-class and her ground game is absolutely devastating. That's been the key to her success and it's something she executed perfectly in her first fight with Meechan. I expect the same sort of output from her here tonight.
[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.]
♫
THE SUN
THE MOON
AND THE STARS
THEY COULD NEVER BE BIGGER
ANY BIGGER THAN YOU ARE
♫
[As "Point of View" by Twelve Foot Ninja begins to play over the PA system, Dallas Meechan makes his way to the main stage in grand fashion. Donning his gray fight kit trimmed in blue, Meechan hypes himself up by beating his chest while the crowd grows with cheers. He begins to make his way down the aisleway, soaking in the energy in the arena, and unzips his coat to reveal the Bantamweight Title while several coaches from his camp follow closely behind.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
And with the final walkout of the night, the boisterous ScrapYard product, Dallas Meechan makes his way to the octagon! Dallas Meechan has been absolutely impressive since day one and continues to grow as a fighter. Making his debut in the 2019 Championship Grand Prix, he ran through the competition with finishes from the likes of Zari Aliyah and Saffron Harris, only to get derailed in the finals against Lauren Moore. But now, he's on a two-fight win streak and looking to make it three with his first title defense.
JASON JACKSON
Listen, I spoke with Dante Reed earlier in the week about this fight, and he told me that Meechan wanted this match-up when given his options. That's a warrior mentality — to make your first title defense against the only fighter to hand you a loss on the biggest stage. Dally wants to even the score and avenge that loss that would have made him the first Bantamweight Champion, and we can all agree that he's got a tough task at hand. However this fight plays out, my hats off to both of these incredible athletes.
[Meechan finally makes it to cageside, where he undresses down to his tights before getting inspected by the fight official. Once he's been cleared, Meechan races up the steps and throws his arms out like an explosion upon entering the cage. He jogs over to his corner, shadow boxing along the way and playing up to the crowd.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Illinois State Athletic 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 Dusty Whittaker. AND NOW, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! The following contest is scheduled for five rounds and it’s for the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Championship. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Freestyle Wrestler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 6-4. She stands 5’7”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. She is from Irvine, California, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, she is the former and inaugural Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion, “L-Mo” Lauren Moore!
[Lauren Moore doesn't look concerned about anything her opponent brings to the table as she bounces in place and stays focused.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 5-1. He stands 5’10”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. He is from Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, Scotland, fighting out of The ScrapYard MMA, he is the reigning, defending, undisputed Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion of the World, “Playboy” Dallas Meechan!
[Dallas Meechan looks like he has been waiting for this fight forever as he hypes himself up in his corner by smacking himself in the face and beating his chest to the roaring crowd.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
We are all set for this main event matchup. A clash of styles both inside and out of the cage. The silent assassin versus the Scottish showman. Grappler versus striker. Our referee, Dusty Whittaker, checks off with each fighter and calls for the bell! And here we go!
[Dallas Meechan and Lauren Moore close the distance and touch gloves in the center to get this fight started. These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect as they circle around and look for openings. Moore looks to try to initiate some offense by pressuring in but Meechan keeps sidestepping out and doesn’t give the impression that he’s ready to engage. Suddenly, Meechan steps forward and fires off a vicious high kick that connects! Moore eats the shot but doesn’t look too fazed by it and Meechan goes back to studying his opponent looking for a hole in her defense.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Vicious Head kick by Meechan!
JASON JACKSON
YEEEEE--- Man. I thought we were about to see ANOTHER head kick finish. I’m still reeling from the last fight.
[Both fighters continue to circle for a while but then Meechan rushes in and launches a rapid series of punches taking Moore from one end of the cage to the other! Meechan is opening up on Moore and raining down combinations and Moore's corner looks worried! L-Mo bounces off the fence and wraps Meechan around his waist, steps inside, and trips him to take this fight to the ground!]
JASON JACKSON
Nice recovery by L-Mo. You can tell that both of these fighters are championship-caliber combatants. She was in danger there and used the momentum to her advantage to turn the tides in an instant.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Definitely a smart move by Moore. Using her momentum off the cage to take her opponent down!
[Meechan and Moore scramble on the ground and Meechan is able to close his guard around Moore. Dallas leverages some control and rolls on the ground to get a nice reversal! Meechan is now in full mount over Lauren Moore! Meechan takes a deep breath as he passes his arm over Moore’s shoulder and pushes his left arm against the mat but Moore is quick to break up that Americana attempt. Dallas goes back to the Americana attempt, but Moore’s ground skills keep her out of serious danger as she slips out of it again. Meechan switches it up and now tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top, but Moore is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt and fires off some hammer punches to Meechan's ribs. Meechan blocks those punches but it’s enough to stop him in his tracks.]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Moore seems to be too skilled on the ground for Meechan to get the control he wants. Look at how Lauren is targeting the ribs to keep her opponent at bay!
JASON JACKSON
Submission onslaught here by Dallas Meechan, and it makes you wonder if maybe that takedown was so worthwhile after all? Defending takedowns like that over and over and over gets exhausting pretty fast.
[Meechan remains in the full mount position while Moore goes back to the body with some big punches that connect hard to Meechan’s ribs. Moore tries to move on the ground now but Meechan keeps the pressure on and keeps his position. Moore tries to roll to her side and get to half guard and is able to create enough space to control Dallas Meechan's leg. Dallas shows some bruises after a few exchanges with his opponent. Meechan is moving on the ground to get out of half guard and delivers a ferocious headbutt! Dusty Whittaker saw the headbutt and stops the fight to give Moore time to recover while giving Meechan a verbal warning. After a brief break in the action, Moore seems to be ready to fight again and the contest resumes with both fighters standing.]
JASON JACKSON
Yoooo. Really man? Come on. This ain’t the fucking back alleys dude. Take that shit elsewhere.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Disgusting display by Dallas Meechan. That headbutt has no place in this fight, and Lauren Moore is obviously feeling the effects right now.
JASON JACKSON
No place in this fight? Nah, no place in this sport. I really hope that was unintentional or he has a damn good explanation.
[Meechan and Moore touch gloves again to show each other respect as the fight resumes. Meechan moves quickly on his feet and delivers some nice shots that stun Moore and splits her lip. Meechan is breathing heavy now and could be gassing out. After the exchange, the fighters size each other up back in the center of the cage. A bad move from Lauren Moore allows Meechan to land another brutal head kick! You could hear the impact from the back seats! Moore stumbles on her feet while Meechan goes for a low kick. But faster than the blink of an eye, he follows up with another head kick!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Two vicious head kicks seem to have Lauren Moore all but out on her feet. Dallas Meechan is going for the knockout now, and it doesn’t look like Moore has an answer for it.
JASON JACKSON
He was really going for the knockout when he gave her the ol’ Samoan Coconut cracker with his dome.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
That headbutt was definitely the reason for his current advantage, I can’t deny that. I just hope Lauren is able to muster something soon.
[Lauren Moore is in survival mode at this point but Meechan keeps on the offensive. Meechan goes with a looping right hand while Moore jumps back and jabs. Moore seems staggered and Meechan runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses! Moore fakes a punch and shoots a takedown to try and bring this back to the mat, but Meechan sprawls and remains on his feet. Meechan doesn’t retaliate after stuffing the takedown, instead he steps backwards and lowers his arms while breathing heavily. He definitely seems tired now. Both fighters circle around mostly to recover and respect each other’s range.]
JASON JACKSON
Meechan is looking kinda gassed here after the end of one round. That doesn’t bode well at all. I hope it wasn’t an adrenaline dump, and instead some water and a load off in between rounds sorts him out.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
Both fighters look absolutely drained, and it makes you wonder if their strategies are going to change or not when and if we make it to the second round. There isn’t much time now, but if they’re already this far gone in just round one, I can’t imagine that this fight will make it very far out of round 2.
[Lauren Moore gets sloppy on her footwork and allows Meechan to land another solid head kick! Moore seems a bit muddled and it’s not certain how much more punishment she can take. Meechan feints a leg kick then switches targets and lands a superb body kick that rocks Moore to close out the round. Dusty Whittaker separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.]
JASON JACKSON
What do you think? 10-9 Meechan? I mean, he was really pushing the aggression and rocked her a few good times. The ref didn’t take a point for the illegal blow, so I really gotta give the round to him.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I definitely have to give it to Dallas. Even with the headbutt, Lauren Moore was on the defensive this entire round. Sure it saved her on the ground earlier, but how many more head kicks can she take before it’s lights out?
[The second round opens up and both fighters look exhausted already. Lauren Moore looks to put the pressure on, but Dallas Meechan is doing his best Misty DeMeans to Roscoe Robinson impression by not engaging. Meechan wants to close the range now and tries to grapple. He shoves himself over his opponent and secures a single collar tie. Dallas Meechan lands a few punches and tries to finish off with a quick knee. Moore got smashed in the abdomen and folds like a lawn chair! Dusty Whittaker is asking Moore to defend herself! Dusty Whittaker has seen enough and jumps in between the fighters and stops the punishment for Moore!]
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
AND THAT’S IT FOLKS!!!
JASON JACKSON
EEEE, that’s nasty. It’s rare we see people get folded like that from a body shot but I think I saw her soul leave her body. I wonder if she pooped herself. I pooped my self once when I was training and got kicked in the body.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
I think we’ve all been there. The body shot knockouts, not the traumatizing anecdote you just gave, my friend.
JASON JACKSON
The worse part is, it was my wife who kicked me. Talk about awwwwwkward.
WARHEAD WILLIAMS
This is the reason why nobody asks you to smoke weed with them on their podcast, Jason. That being said, great effort by both of these fighters. You can’t help but wonder, similar to the last fight with Zion’s facial injury, if things would’ve been different had Dallas not headbutted Lauren, but at the end of the day, Dallas Meechan proves why he’s still at the top of his division.
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Dally is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Moore 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 Dusty Whittaker has called for a stop in this fight at forty-one seconds in the second round, for your winner by technical knockout, AND STILL the undisputed Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Champion of the World, “Playboy” Dallas Meechan!
[The crowd cheers once again as Meechan has his hand raised in victory and the title wrapped around his waist. 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: Dallas Meechan by TKO (Knee to Abdomen) at 0:41 Round 2
Statistics: Dallas Meechan
Punches 19/23 (83%)
Kicks 7/7 (100%)
Clinch strikes 7/7 (100%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 105 s
Statistics: Lauren Moore
Punches 0/1 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)
Takedowns 1/2 (50%)
GnP strikes 2/3 (67%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 105 s