UNITED CENTER
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
MAY 17, 2020
KENNARD ROZIER
What's good peoples? You already know what's goin on. We're finally live here in Chi Town for the UGP twenty prelims and tonight we gotta lot of debuts for y'all, Of course I'm your Heavyweight Champion Kennard Rozier and tonight we got newcomer to the booth. What's going on EC?
ERIC COSTA
Sup, Kennard! Great to be here callin’ the fights with you an’ to all our fans roun’ the world.
KENNARD ROZIER
No doubt bro. You been enjoying yourself here in the Windy City?
ERIC COSTA
It’s been great so far, got to eat the famous Chicago style pizza an’ now ‘am ready for some fights, my guy.
KENNARD ROZIER
Like I said tonight on the prelims we got some new fighters making their debut. In our first matchup Suhaim Curaibi takes on Rubio Ochoa III. What you think about this fight my boy?
ERIC COSTA
I read a piece the other day that detailed some of my views of this fight. I like the fact that we’re havin’ a new gym gettin’ fighters in the cage an’ havin’ two of the mentors there takin’ the cage an’ leadin’ by example is always a great sight. Yet this fight is so well matched up that pickin’ up a winner is not gonna be easy. You have two lengthy fighters that know how to utilize their length an’ precision in both the clinch an’ the stand up game; the difference might be on the groun’ but that’s another thin’ entirely.
KENNARD ROZIER
It's dope as hell to see another gym in Paroxysm get the chance to showcase fighters on a professional level so kudos to them… but this fight… this fight comes down to who wants to show they belong right outta the gate. It's nothing like starting off with that first victory. It builds confidence and proves to yourself that you're suppose to be competing at this level.
ERIC COSTA
Then again, what I’ve seen by the new gym; they seem more like the kind of gym that loves to showcase what they know. So it’ll be interestin’ to see what Chraibi manages to showcase here tonight. Ochoa, I expect to be guns blazin’ an’ that could be a key for the youn’ gun -- I say as if I wasn’t one year younger than him --; if he can control the stand up game an’ avoid gettin’ dragged to the mat, this could be a lon’ night for Paroxysm.
KENNARD ROZIER
Then we have Cezar Miklos taking on Dimitri Kolovik. The big boys. The mammoths of the fight world. People always expect to see somebody getting their head knocked off when it comes to the Heavyweights. Shit, I do too so I'm expecting fireworks for this fight.
ERIC COSTA
You have more experience in that department than I do. I do know that a good punch can make a world of difference; more so when you have two beasts inside that cage. Expect this fight to not last lon’ if either fighter has it their way.
KENNARD ROZIER
Coming in to this fight already with a professional win under his belt Dimitri gotta feel hella good about that. Cezar is a guy that has been waiting for this day for a while now though. He looks to be a very dangerous striker too. Does the young gunner continue to impress or does the vet make the statement? I don't know. We Damn sure gone find out later though.
ERIC COSTA
Although he doesn’t have that much experience inside the cage, Miklos cannot be discounted. The man is a veteran of the kickboxing game and I’ve heard he wrecked havoc in his regional scene an’ Kolovik has been basically bred for fightin’. It’ll be interestin’ to see what happens in this fight; as you said, these are the big hitters an’ one punch is all they need.
KENNARD ROZIER
Then in our Main Event of the prelims we got Maliyah Lyons taking on Yasmine Vermeulen. Man, now that's a fight to end our night my guy. This why this card is my favourite one of the year so far. To have a fight like this as our prelims Main Event just says how stacked this card is tonight.
ERIC COSTA
You’re completely right, my guy. This is a fight that I have to have my eye on not only as a commentator tonight; but also as a competitor. Lyons and Vermeulen are two of the best up an’ comin’ Lightweights in Union an’ I have a feelin’ one; or maybe both of ‘em might be in my immediate future.
KENNARD ROZIER
These ladies matchup very well. Their both strikers primarily. I would say Yasmine is a better Muay Thai fighter while Maliyah would have the advantage on the ground. Super special with the subs bro. Bruh, this fight gonna be back and forth I'm telling y'all.
ERIC COSTA
This is gonna be Lyons’ toughest test so far in her career. As you said, both ladies love the strikin’ game an’ neither is afraid of engagin’. This should be fire right out of the gate an’ be one fans in attendance an’ watchin’ at home would be glad they saw live as it happened.
KENNARD ROZIER
I hope y'all excited cos I know fasho I am. Shit about to be wild tonight. The feeling is in the air. Stay strapped and stay tuned cos when we come back we begin our night with Suhaim Chraibi versus Rubio Ochoa III.
FAN POLL: 73.1% Rubio Ochoa III
REFEREE: Willie Green
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
KENNARD ROZIER
Yup welcome back to the prelims peoples. We're already set to kick things off with Suhaim Chraibi versus Rubio Ochoa III. Both of these bad boys are making their Union debut tonight and you can bet they're ready to put in that work.
ERICK COSTA
As we talked about previously, these two are really similar in build. We might be in for a good fight for both men.
KENNARD ROZIER
That's what everyone in here came for. The Cruiserweight Division is an interesting one and with new talent you don't wanna be the one looking up. These guys look ready to go too. So are we. Let's do it.. Arabian Nights versus Rhoudini. LESGO!!
[Suhaim Chraibi and Rubio Ochoa III touch gloves in the center to get this fight started! Rubio Ochoa III goes with a looping right hand while Suhaim Chraibi jumps back and jabs. That one hits but Chraibi seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange to start things off. Ochoa III moves forward looking for some action. He surprises Chraibi with a double overhooks! Ochoa III fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut. It lands on Chraibi's chin. Ochoa III then launches a body shot but Chraibi evades it.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Rhoudini with the hands already. He ain't tryna feel things out right now. Good job by Suhaim getting out of the way from that shot to the body.
ERICK COSTA
Early on we’re seein’ how these two fighters differentiate from each other. Ochoa the more aggressive fighter an’ Chraibi bein’ the more defensive one.
[Ochoa III jumps over Chraibi and tries to grapple. Rubio Ochoa III pushes him against the fence in a plum position. Ochoa III pushes off of Suhaim Chraibi and starts launching a flurry of hooks and body shots! Chraibi stumbles backwards but Rubio chases him and continues the rain of blows!]
KENNARD ROZIER
Rubio has some fast ass hands. That speed is giving Suhaim difficulty right now.
ERICK COSTA
Even if Chraibi is similar in build to Ochoa, it’s obvious his style clashes with his opponent. Ochoa is readin’ this well and his game plan is workin’ beautifully.
[Chraibi doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Rubio Ochoa III embrace and tries to move away. Rubio Ochoa III pushes Chraibi forward and doesn't allow him to break free. Ochoa III starts launching some bone breaking punches to Chraibi's ribs. You can see the pain in Suhaim Chraibi's eyes. Crushing shot to Chraibi's body! He's holding his side.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Working that body. All this is gonna do is make it easier for those shots over the top. I like what I'm seeing outta my Ninth World compadre at the moment.
ERICK COSTA
I knew you’d like that from Ochoa. Chraibi might need to try somethin’ different because so far he’s been read an’ attacked relentlessly by the younger fighter.
KENNARD ROZIER
He needs to put some leg kicks out there. Keep Rubio back just a little bit.
[Ochoa III pushes off of Suhaim Chraibi and starts launching a flurry of hooks and body shots! Chraibi stumbles backwards but Rubio Ochoa III chases him and continues the rain of blows! Suhaim Chraibi tries to shrug his way out of the clinch but Ochoa III is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position as he started throwing another flurry of punches!
Suhaim Chraibi just can't get away!]
KENNARD ROZIER
Rubio has been dope as hell working in the clinch. Suhaim has to find a answer if he wants to turn this round around.
ERICK COSTA
Again, Chraibi doesn’t want to work on the clinch an’ Ochoa has that Muay Thai backgroun’. If Chraibi doesn’t fin’ an out he’ll be in a world of trouble for the rest of the fight.
[Suhaim Chraibi is able to switch and is holding Rubio Ochoa III against the fence, he swings his right arm over Ochoa III head and tries to hit him with a reverse elbow. Ochoa III blocks that elbow and moves out of danger. Rubio Ochoa III throws an uppercut and it lands solidly. Rubio Ochoa III fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. Rubio Ochoa III step forward and he and Chraibi engage in a wild exchange of punches! Rubio Ochoa III is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows.]
KENNARD ROZIER
In and out. Rubio's movement has been precise. For a kickboxer like Suhaim not being a standing target for him makes it hard for him to find that groove.
ERICK COSTA
‘am beginin’ to get a feelin’ that Chraibi prepared himself for a more methodical opponent; one that isn’t as fast as Ochoa. Nothin’ he’s thrown is workin’ an’ you can feel some desperation buildin’ up in him.
KENNARD ROZIER
He's been training for years though and knows he can find a way to become effective in this round.
[Ochoa III launches a furious low kick and Chraibi receives a hard blow on his left leg! Chraibi launches a furious low kick of his own but Rubio Ochoa III blocks it. Ochoa III moves forward and holds Chraibi. Suhaim Chraibi slightly pushes Ochoa III into the fence and tries to calm down the action. The referee intervenes to break the clinch.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Smart move. Slow him down. If I'm Suhaim though I wanna put Rubio on his back.
ERICK COSTA
Finally some fightin’ IQ from Chraibi; the man needs to slow the pace down. He needs to force Ochoa to fight his fight an’ this might be the break he’s waitin’ for.
[Chraibi let's go with a low kick...Ochoa III is smart enough to block that one. Rubio Ochoa III and Chraibi engage in a wild exchange of punches and Rubio Ochoa III is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows. Suhaim Chraibi fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside before a bunch of leg kicks from Suhaim Chraibi are blocked by Ochoa III.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Look for Rubio to try and utilize more of his Muay Thai. Even though he checked those kicks you don't want Suhaim to find his range.
ERICK COSTA
I completely agree; Chraibi has those lon’ legs that can be a problem for anyone in the division if not checked correctly. Ochoa has been doin’ everythin’ right thus far, he’s probably regroupin’ to continue pressin’ with his Muay Thai.
[Ochoa III jumps over Suhaim and tries to grapple. Rubio Ochoa III pushes Suhaim against the fence in a plum position.Chraibi starts throwing a flurry of punches and Ochoa III ducks under and circles out of the corner. Good movement from Chraibi who is bobbing and weaving. He looks for a left straight, Rubio weaves sending a right hand that makes Chraibi stumble back!]
KENNARD ROZIER
EWW!! That landed with authority bruh.
ERICK COSTA
Credit to Arabian Nights as he took that an’ didn’t fall!
[Solid low kick from Suhaim Chraibi. Ochoa III deflects it. Rubio Ochoa III fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. Ochoa III moves forward and holds Chraibi. Ochoa III pushes Suhaim Chraibi against the fence and begins a relentless combination of punches. The crowd is on its feet! Chraibi cannot escape Rubio Ochoa III's clinch! Rubio Ochoa III is just brutalizing Chraibi with punches time and time again! Suhaim Chraibi pushes away Ochoa III trying to keep the fight at striking range. Ochoa III doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Suhaim Chraibi but the referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Now that's what we like. The crowd already loving what they see. Rubio just put on a show for them that round. Suhaim and his coaches might wanna think about trying something different.
ERICK COSTA
I get Chraibi might have a more technical approach than his gymmate; but he might need to throw caution to the win’ in the next roun’. This one, obviously wasn’t for him.
KENNARD ROZIER
If he continues to let Rubio get his hands on him it looks like he's gonna have a hard time. We'll see what he and Paroxysim try and do this round.
=========================================
ROUND TWO
=========================================
[Rubio Ochoa III and Chraibi study each other looking for a hole. Suhaim Chraibi launches a body shot. Ochoa III dodges and catches him with a hard cross. Ochoa III moves backwards and Suhaim Chraibi is asking him if he came today for fighting or running. Ochoa III moves forward looking for some action. He surprises Chraibi with a double overhooks! Ochoa III launches a flurry of punches but only manages to land glancing blows. Rubio Ochoa III fakes a punch and launches himself over Suhaim Chraibi. Ochoa III pushes Suhaim under a troublesome thai clinch.]
KENNARD ROZIER
The first round Rubio put his Muay Thai on display. Suhaim needs to work out of that clinch with the quickness.
ERICK COSTA
Chraibi’s best shot of winnin’ this fight might come from the groun’ an’ for as lon’ as he lets Ochoa keep the pressure an’ control of the clinch, that might be a difficult task.
[Rubio Ochoa III postures up and launches another series of punches! Chraibi does a good job blocking most of Rubio Ochoa III's shots. Suhaim Chraibi launches a furious knee! Bang! It clearly hits Ochoa III's groin! Willie Green has seen that! Willie Green allows Ochoa III time to recover... The fight resumes..]
KENNARD ROZIER
One time for that mans prime jewels. God bless him.
ERICK COSTA
Good sportsmanship from Ochoa who obviously thought there was no malice in that hit; but that one had to hurt.
[Brilliant combination from Rubio Ochoa III that forces Chraibi to try and defend better. The two exchange wildly, both landing but without much steam behind the shots. Although there is a small laceration on Suhaim Chraibi's mouth. They keep exchanging the punches! Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch. Suhaim Chraibi attempts to cut off Ochoa III with punches. Ochoa III avoids getting cornered. Chraibi misses a step and Rubio Ochoa III sees an opportunity to counter him! Ochoa III jumps over Suhaim and tries to grapple. Ochoa III pushes Suhaim against the fence in a plum position.]
KENNARD ROZIER
He's been picking his spots for when he wants to tie up very good.
ERICK COSTA
Rhoudini has been playin’ a very interestin’ game. He tested Chraibi’s chin earlier in the fight an’ saw how stron’ it was… now he’s lookin’ for the W no matter what.
[Both fighters are tied in a clinch. Rubio Ochoa III is holding Suhaim Chraibi against the fence, he swings his right arm over Chraibi's head and tries to hit him with a reverse elbow. Bang! Suhaim Chraibi is punished by that. Ochoa III lands a few punches before Suhaim Chraibi pushes away Ochoa III trying to keep the fight at striking range. Ochoa III doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Suhaim Chraibi.]
KENNARD ROZIER
That elbow was beautiful. All technique. Suhaim has been lost in the clinch. He just can't get away from Rhoudini.
ERICK COSTA
As we said earlier, the length of both fighters would benefit the one who went for the clinch the most; so far, Ochoa has done everything he can to keep the clinch an’ control the pace of the fight.
[Rubio Ochoa III postures up and launches another series of punches! A lot of them are hitting Chraibi hard, who may be wondering how to escape from this as his coaches yell out instructions. Chraibi doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Rubio Ochoa III embrace and tries to move away… Rubio Ochoa III pushes Chraibi forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch. Suhaim Chraibi tries to shrug his way out of the clinch once more but Ochoa III is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Blow after blow. Those punches have come in a flurry and have been landing consistently. At this point Suhaim needs to look for the takedown. Rubio's been a step ahead of him on the feet.
ERICK COSTA
I’ll be fair here, a lot of those blows would’ve put any man out. Chraibi’s chin has proven itself tonight; it’s just that everythin’ else hasn’t really worked out for him.
[Chraibi doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Rubio Ochoa III embrace and tries to move away… Rubio Ochoa III pushes Chraibi forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch. Rubio pushes off before he attempts A flying knee. OOOH! Suhaim Chraibi gets hit in the abdomen and he drops to the mat.]
KENNARD ROZIER
GAHDAMN GAHDAMN!
ERICK COSTA
THAT ONE LANDED CLEAN AN’ CHRAIBI IS DOWN!
[Ochoa III is standing while Chraibi is on the ground on his back. Ochoa III launches a kick to Chraibi's thigh! Chraibi tries to hit Rubio Ochoa III with a kick to his knee from the ground. Ochoa III dodges that. Ochoa III launches another kick to Chraibi's thigh Another Loud pop! Rubio Ochoa III creates space and allows Suhaim Chraibi to stand up. Chraibi climbs to his feet and is standing now. He lets go with an Inside leg kick that goes awry. Ochoa III launches a hook to the body. Bang! Chraibi takes that one to the ribs.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Man those body shots hurt in another type of way.
ERICK COSTA
Again, the man has endured a lot of punishment tonight; have to give him credit if nothin’ else for endurin’.
[The two begin exchanging wildly. Both landing but without much steam behind the shots before Ochoa III connects with a few nice jabs. Ochoa III launches a furious low kick! Chraibi receives a hard blow on his left leg right as the referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Gotta say that was another round for Rubio. He came out and continued to hurt Suhaim with his Muay Thai.
ERICK COSTA
I’m just surprised Chraibi hasn’t crumbled. The man has taken hit after hit as you said an’ in any other day I would assume any of those hits would’ve ended a man’s night.
KENNARD ROZIER
Warrior. As long as he's standing he's still in it. I ain't sure that's where he wanna be. Fasho, he down two rounds but if he can't get Rubio to the mat there is no way I see him winning this fight.
=========================================
ROUND THREE
=========================================
[The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage. Ochoa III moves forward looking for some action. He surprises Chraibi with a double overhooks! Suhaim Chraibi tries to bring the fight to the ground. Ochoa III won't budge, forcing Chraibi to pull guard. Rubio Ochoa III is in closed guard over Chraibi. Rubio Ochoa III tries to better his position on the ground. Ochoa III breaks the closed guard of Suhaim Chraibi and moves to half guard. Rubio Ochoa III gets to side mount over Suhaim Chraibi. Rubio Ochoa III looks to mount Suhaim Chraibi...Rubio Ochoa III slides his knee across and gets to mount.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Instead of letting Rubio get his hands on him and push him toward the fence Suhaim chose to pull guard. That was smart because this guy has a super good Sub game.
ERICK COSTA
We’ve been sayin’ it all night; Chraibi’s best chance of winnin’ might come from the groun’. We need to see if Ochoa’s defense is good enough to survive there.
[Suhaim Chraibi tries to roll to his side and trap Rubio Ochoa III in his guard...Rubio Ochoa III keeps good control and remains in full mount. Chraibi is using some of his ground skills to escape from this. He pushes Ochoa III's knee away and tries to roll! Nice move to get half guard! Suhaim Chraibi hooks Ochoa III's right leg and sits back for a kneebar!]
KENNARD ROZIER
He's trying to get that thing tighter.
ERICK COSTA
Finally we’re seein’ some of that submission knowledge Suhaim has.
KENNARD ROZIER
Nope...Good D Rhoudini.
[Rubio Ochoa III manages to kick Chraibi away and scrambles on top! Rubio Ochoa III is in open guard over Chraibi. Chraibi tries to close his guard around Ochoa III. He is not able to do it. Suhaim Chraibi sits up and gets an arm around Ochoa III's neck! Ochoa III pushes Suhaim Chraibi back to the ground. Rubio Ochoa III tries to pass to half guard...Suhaim Chraibi can't prevent him passing and Ochoa III looks to work from half guard. Ochoa III tries to get to side mount. He frees his leg and is now controlling Chraibi from the side mount!]
KENNARD ROZIER
I don't know why Rubio just doesn't bring it back to the feet. I wouldn't wanna be on the ground with Suhaim right now.
ERICK COSTA
Neither would I; the man is so quick with his submission attempts; we saw it with that kneebar. Ochoa has done enough damage to just take this fight back to the feet an’ end it there.
[Ochoa III tries to move to full mount! Nice move. He is in full mount now. Suhaim Chraibi tries to roll to his side and trap Rubio Ochoa III in his guard...Rubio Ochoa III rolls him over and takes his back! Ochoa III tries to get a hook in! Things get worse for Chraibi! Ochoa III has one hook in and keeps working! Nicely done! Ochoa III now has two hooks in! The end may be near!]
KENNARD ROZIER
He lost it. Good defense by Suhaim. That was a tough spot to be in bro.
ERICK COSTA
Tryin’ to out maneuver a submission artist is not always an easy task. Gotta give Ochoa credit; we’re seein’ he’s not only good with the clinch; he’s also serviceable on the groun’ an’ you’ve got to love that.
[Chraibi is trying to escape from the rear mount. Chraibi tries to use some of his tricky moves but Ochoa III's is smart enough to counter him. Things stall for a moment and the referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground. A Crisp uppercut by Chraibi followed by a hard jab comes aiming at Ochoa III but he deflects the blows and both fighters circle around the center of the cage.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Suhaim must continue to let those punches go. He's down two rounds and the only way he's winning this fight is with a finish.
ERICK COSTA
I think his corner realized it a tad bit too late; he’s been fire this roun’ with the constant pressure.
[Ochoa III jumps over Suhaim and tries to grapple. Rubio Ochoa III pushes Suhaim against the fence in a plum position. Suhaim Chraibi tries to shrug his way out of the clinch but Ochoa III is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position. Ochoa III is throwing a flurry of punches! Suhaim Chraibi just can't get away! Suhaim Chraibi pushes away Ochoa III trying to keep the fight at striking range. Ochoa III doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Suhaim Chraibi.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Just controlling the fight. From the buzzer up till now this has been a good performance for Rubio.
ERICK COSTA
Ochoa knows he’s done more than enough; he’s willin’ to ride this one out controlling the pace.
[Multiple well placed knees from Ochoa III! Nice hits to Chraibi's ribs! Ochoa III pushes Suhaim Chraibi against the fence and launches a few sick punches. A couple of unanswered uppercuts collide with Chraibi's chin! His legs are wobbling! Ochoa III pushes Suhaim Chraibi against the fence and begins a relentless combination of punches. The crowd is on its feet! again. Chraibi cannot escape Rubio Ochoa III's clinch! Rubio Ochoa III is just brutalizing Chraibi with punches time and time again!]
KENNARD ROZIER
This guy came to make a statement man. Even with this fight won he's still leaving it all out there. Suhaim is a Savy guy though. One mistake and Suhaim could end Rubio.
ERICK COSTA
I think that’s what Suhaim has been waitin’; too bad for him, Rubio came in with a mission an’ has been relentless in that.
[Suhaim Chraibi tries to shrug his way out of the clinch but Ochoa III is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position.. Ochoa III tries to get some advantage after Suhaim misses a move. Ochoa III starts throwing another flurry of punches! Suhaim Chraibi just can't get away! His right cheek is beginning to swell. Ochoa III starts launching some bone breaking punches to Chraibi's ribs. You can see the pain in Suhaim Chraibi's eyes. Chraibi doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Rubio Ochoa III embrace and tries to move away...Rubio Ochoa III pushes Chraibi forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.]
KENNARD ROZIER
His Muay Thai has been A one. It's pretty much neutralized what Suhaim wants to do. He's kept him in the clinch and hasn't allowed Suhaim to be that striker he is.
ERICK COSTA
Against a lengthy striker, that’s what you want to do… keep ‘em as close as you can an’ neutralize anythin’ they might do against you.
[Rubio continues to violently punish Chraibi with uppercuts! Chraibi is taking more than he can endure. This could end soon if Chraibi is unable to escape! Suhaim Chraibi pushes away Ochoa III trying to keep the fight at striking range. Once again Rubio doesn't let him go. Another Sick uppercut from Rubio Ochoa III! That one almost breaks Chraibi's chin! He drops down to the mat. His Chin is bruised after that uppercut.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Suhaim has showed that courage and heart out there. He's taken a lot of shots from Rubio and that uppercut...brutal bro.
ERICK COSTA
Again, one has to credit Suhaim’s chin. Any other day, any other fighter after takin’ in the kin’ of punishment Chraibi has taken from Rubio an’ we wouldn’t be callin’ the match to this point.
[Ochoa III is standing while Chraibi is on the ground on his back. Suhaim Chraibi launches an up-kick intended for Rubio Ochoa III's head...Ochoa III leans out of the way and Willie Green steps in to separate the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Bomb performance from Rhoudini. Congrats to him for getting that first Union win.
ERICK COSTA
Ochoa came in an’ controlled the fight as he wanted. Chraibi took everythin’ this man gave him an’ then some. It might be a tough pill to swallow; but I have a feelin’ the man is chill enough not to take it to heart.
KENNARD ROZIER
Suhaim shouldn't be disappointed about this loss at all. All he needs to do is get back in the gym and continue working. I'm sure he gonna do just that.
ERICK COSTA
Let's take it to the judges.
JUDGE MIRANDA FRANCO
Suhaim Chraibi 9 10 9: 28
Rubio Ochoa III 10 9 10: 29
JUDGE MAX CARVER
Suhaim Chraibi 9 9 9: 27
Rubio Ochoa III 10 10 10: 30
JUDGE OZZIE SEBASTIAN
Suhaim Chraibi 9 9 9: 27
Rubio Ochoa III 10 10 10: 30
Winner: Rubio Ochoa III by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Suhaim Chraibi
Punches 11/31 (35%)
Kicks 0/7 (0%)
Clinch strikes 1/9 (11%)
Takedowns 0/1 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 2/2 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 207 s
Statistics: Rubio Ochoa III
Punches 30/38 (79%)
Kicks 4/4 (100%)
Clinch strikes 47/65 (72%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 2/2 (100%)
Time on the ground 158 s
FAN POLL: 62.1% Dimitri Kolovik
REFEREE: Jordan Ripley
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
KENNARD ROZIER
We got the big boys out here ready to rock as Dimitri Kolovik and Cezar Miklos make their Union debut... Rubio Ochoa III started things off and got the crowd lit. They're still amp and with the heavies getting ready to throw down we could see our first K.O of the prelims in a fight I think is a toss up.
ERICK COSTA
Of course, you know a thin’ or two about power in this division an’ I have to agree with you; this fight seems like a toss up on paper with the only certain thin’ bein’ we might not get three roun’s.
KENNARD ROZIER
The Heavyweight division has grown fast as hell so you wanna win and get as much hype as you can. It won't be an easy road to the top of the division. Tonight is very important to these guys and of course I'm excited to see what they do.
ERICK COSTA
Bet you’ll be keepin’ a close eye on this one, should be a fun one.
KENNARD ROZIER
Y'all Ready…. Dimitri Kolovik versus Cezar Miklos. Round one ladies and gentlemen.
[The bell announces the first round and the men touch gloves before sizing each other up in the center of the cage. Dimitri Kolovik leans forwards and tries to grapple with Miklos. He gets his hand around Cezar and the fighters are tied in the clinch. Kolovik grabs one of Cezar Miklos' legs and with a twist of his hip Dimitri Kolovik throws Miklos to the mat like a ragdoll. Kolovik is standing while Miklos is on the ground on his back. Cezar Miklos kicks his legs trying to keep Dimitri Kolovik away. Dimitri Kolovik takes a kick to the body.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Dimitri's looking for a way to get into Cezar's guard but Cezar's doing a good job of not letting him.
ERICK COSTA
Some of Chraibi’s defensive game might’ve rubbed onto Cezar. Kolovik showin’ his strength an’ control early on.
[Kolovik is standing while Miklos is on the ground on his back still. Cezar Miklos kicks his legs trying to keep Dimitri Kolovik away. Dimitri Kolovik takes another kick to the body. Dimitri Kolovik opts to go after his opponent and jumps inside Miklos's guard. Miklos fights back with his feet, forcing Kolovik to try something else. Cezar kicking Dimitri in the chest again. Cezar Miklos launches an up-kick intended for Dimitri Kolovik's head...It lands flush with Dimitri Kolovik's head snapping it backwards due to the impact!]
KENNARD ROZIER
No way he still standing after that. That was viscous. My god.
ERICK COSTA
Miklos has power there’s no denyin’ that. Maybe his kicks aren’t as good as his fists, but man that was hard!
KENNARD ROZIER
Kolovik just need to let em stand up. He's been putting himself in danger when he doesn't have to and that's beyond me.
[Back to the beginning! Cezar Miklos is back on his feet. Kolovik shoots and grabs a hold of Cezar Miklos's left leg... He's trying to take him down. Cezar Miklos shows great balance while pushing away Dimitri Kolovik. Kolovik starts swinging for the fences! Miklos backpedals and creates space. Dimitri Kolovik is asking him if he is going to fight! Dimitri Kolovik just won't stop and continues to look for punches. Miklos quickly defends. Miklos begins swinging for the fences as well and an uppercut that lands almost breaks Kolovik's jaw! Kolovik has a small cut appearing on his right cheek.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Whoa!! That busted Dimitri open. That man has hella power behind those punches.
ERICK COSTA
MY GOD! If the kick was vicious, that uppercut showed just a glimpse of Miklos power! Kolovik might be in trouble here.
KENNARD ROZIER
Trouble ain't even the word my dude.
[Cezar Miklos circles around Kolovik. Cezar Miklos goes with a looping right hand while Dimitri Kolovik jumps back and jabs. That one hits but Kolovik seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange here. The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage again. Dimitri Kolovik tries to bring the fight to the ground. Miklos won't budge, forcing Kolovik to pull guard. Miklos is in closed guard... Kolovik tries to roll on the ground! Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Cezar Miklos! Kolovik tries to keep his position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session…Miklos struggles before he launches a few weak punches. Those punches are hitting Kolovik's ribs though.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Dimitri has been aggressive and he needs to keep doing that. Keep Cezar on his back and go to work because he's been getting outsmarted on the feet.
ERICK COSTA
Kolovik has that wrestlin’ backgroun’ an’ that might just be what he needs to turn the tides. As you said, it has been all Miklos on the feet.
[Dimitri Kolovik throws his leg over and rolls it over into an armbar! Miklos breaks the lock showing some skills. Cezar Miklos tries to roll on the ground. Kolovik misses a step and Cezar Miklos sees an opportunity to counter him! Cezar Miklos tries to roll to his side and trap Dimitri Kolovik in his guard…he gets his hip out and moves to full guard. Kolovik tries to open up Miklos with a few strikes with his right elbow…Miklos blocks those elbows.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Cezar might have escaped that Armbar but as long as Dimitri stays active and continues to look for submissions Cezar's in danger..
ERICK COSTA
That’s what he has to do, keep the fight on the groun’... push Miklos to where he’s uncomfortable.
[Miklos struggles and frees his leg! Miklos launches a few weak punches. Those punches are hitting Kolovik's ribs. Dimitri Kolovik pushes Miklos's leg and tries to move to full mount. Miklos rolls and he's now in half guard over Dimitri Kolovik. Nice reversal. The fight stalls momentarily and Jordan Ripley stands the fighters up due to a lack of activity and both fighters continue the fight on their feet.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Right now I got Cezar winning this round. Dimitri has a chance to steal it though if he can put something together in this closing minute.
ERICK COSTA
Cezar’s strikin’ prowess has been on display all fight lon’; but as you said, it’s still early an’ if Kolovik can manage to brin’ the fight back to the groun’ we can see him do more damage.
[Dimitri Kolovik closes the distance with Miklos wanting some action. Dimitri Kolovik tries a nice one-two combination that gets blocked. A Quick hook by Cezar Miklos rocks Kolovik and his legs noodle a bit. Dimitri fires back with a leg kick but Cezar blocks it. Kolovik tries to grapple. Miklos sees what is coming and ducks under moving aside. Kolovik looks for another takedown but Cezar Miklos jumps backwards and frees his leg. Jordan Ripley steps in and tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Man some of the punches Dimitri has took has almost put him down. He doesn't need to try and trade blows with Cezar... At all. Continue to look for the takedown and keep him on his back and maybe he can win the second round. Clearly Cezar's one up.
ERICK COSTA
I have to agree, this roun’ was all Cezar’s an’ I believe that if Kolovik wants a shot at winnin’ this one; he might have to steal a page from Ochoa earlier. Push the fight, get Miklos on the clinch an’ control the pace, look for the takedown an’ keep the fight there. Easier said than done, tho.
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ROUND TWO
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[Cezar Miklos fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. Kolovik grabs Miklos by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground. Miklos struggles, but Dimitri Kolovik is unable to take him down. A high kick from Dimitri Kolovik misses badly. Kolovik slips and falls! Miklos moves backwards and gestures for Dimitri Kolovik to stand up. Kolovik climbs to his feet and steps forward looking to clinch. Miklos pushes him away though.]
KENNARD ROZIER
HAHAHAHA how you fall my G? HAHAHA. Crazy bruh. Crazy.
ERICK COSTA
Kolovik tried, but the damage he received in the first roun’ probably is affectin’ him here.
[Miklos studies Dimitri looking for a hole in his defense. The two begin exchanging wildly but both fighters are missing so they decide to circle around the center of the cage. Dimitri Kolovik goes with a looping right hand while Cezar Miklos jumps back and jabs. That jab lands on the nose and Kolovik seems staggered. Cezar Miklos runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses.]
KENNARD ROZIER
He generated a lot of power with that jab. A jab bro. That's scary. Cezar is teeing off on Kolovik.
ERICK COSTA
I don’t know what the corner is waitin’; Kolovik is obviously hurt an’ you cannot let a man tee off like that an’ not expect some serious damage to be done.
[Miklos looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Dimitri Kolovik's punches. Kolovik is on the receiving end of a great combo by Miklos. Kolovik follows Cezar Miklos only to get counter punched in a big way! Kolovik needs to stop playing Cezar Miklos's game or he'll get knocked out. Kolovik throws a body kick. Blocked by Miklos. Miklos launches a couple of jabs and then a big hook! Kolovik blocks the jabs but the last punch hits hard on Dimitri Kolovik's cheek! Kolovik stumbles and then falls to the mat! A bruise on Kolovik's cheek appearing.]
KENNARD ROZIER
DAMN CUH! This is is like teacher versus student out there. Cezar is taking that boy to school.
ERICK COSTA
Not for nothin’ he’s one of the heads at Paroxysm. Showin’ his pupils by example.
[Miklos is standing while Kolovik is on the ground on his back. Miklos launches a kick to Kolovik's thigh. Loud pop! Miklos launches another kick to Kolovik's thigh. Loud pop! Dimitri Kolovik doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet. He can't do it because of Miklos's moves before Cezar steps back and allows Kolovik to get back to his feet. Cezar Miklos goes with a looping right hand. It rocks Kolovik and he staggers. Miklos runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses. Kolovik's Chin is beginning to swell.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Man's face is under construction. He don't look like himself. I salute this man to still be in the fight. He needs to do something. Swing for the fences. Something.
ERICK COSTA
Dimitri hasn’t looked like him in a while now, I don’t know, Pluggz… but this doesn’t look good for the man from Russia.
[Dimitri Kolovik moves forward and launches a low kick. Miklos blocks that. Kolovik throws a hook. He fails to land it. Kolovik throws a lazy kick, Miklos dodges and fires an uppercut that almost puts Kolovik to orbit! The frightening power of Cezar Miklos has left Kolovik sleeping peacefully on the canvas and this one is over ladies and gentlemen. The crowd looks on in awe at that brutal KO as Cezar celebrates with his crew.]
KENNARD ROZIER
………
ERICK COSTA
…….
KENNARD ROZIER
Yooooooo...We need a casket bruh.
ERICK COSTA
I know you’ve seen an’ performed some huge KO’s; but damn! Miklos put on a clinic an’ showed his boys how to do it big time.
KENNARD ROZIER
Most def EC. Cezar came out and put on for his gym. Just like he should. People are gonna be talking about that K.O for days.
ERICK COSTA
There’s no question! That’s a KO that’s gonna have people talkin’ an’ that’s gonna put pressure on other fighters for the rest of the night… who knows, maybe some bonus money might be on Miklos way after that one.
KENNARD ROZIER
That's mondo. All the way. Hold your head up Dimitri. Study this tape and come back ready to get that Union W. For now we'll be right back.
Winner: Cezar Miklos by KO (Uppercut) at 3:33 Round 2
Statistics: Cezar Miklos
Punches 21/31 (68%)
Kicks 2/2 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 4/6 (67%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 140 s
Statistics: Dimitri Kolovik
Punches 2/18 (11%)
Kicks 0/4 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/5 (20%)
GnP strikes 0/4 (0%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/3 (33%)
Time on the ground 133 s
FAN POLL: 63.3% Maliyah Lyons
REFEREE: Herschel Warden
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ROUND ONE
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KENNARD ROZIER
We're here. Our prelims Main Event. Maliyah Lyons versus Yasmine Vermeulen.
ERICK COSTA
This fight is one I really think fans at home might be payin’ attention to.
KENNARD ROZIER
At three and oh Maliyah is looking to put herself in position as someone who could possibly be a contender.
ERICK COSTA
This might be Lyons biggest test so far. She has to put everythin’ on display here an’ ‘am not talkin’ just as a contender in the division… ‘am sayin’ that because I believe Vermeulen is not an easy fight for anyone an’ if you don’t brin’ your A game… you’re gonna have a hard time.
KENNARD ROZIER
Yasmine on the other hand is coming off of a loss to Bellamy DeSilva but her potential is so pure that you look at her and say aye bruh that girl can become the Lightweight champ.
ERICK COSTA
Not gonna pick a side, you know I have special interest in this fight… but, gonna say you’re right; Vermeulen is one tough fight for anyone in the division an’ if Lyons wants to make a statement… this is the fight for it.
KENNARD ROZIER
Whoever wins this one will more than likely be looking forward to fighting someone in the top 5 next. Man this a bomb as fight. Cold Case versus Vermeulen. UGP 20 prelims... Lesgo!!!
[Maliyah Lyons and Yasmine Vermeulen touch gloves in the center to get this fight started! Vermeulen, showing excellent timing, blasts Maliyah Lyons with a right hand. Great hook by Yasmine Vermeulen! Maliyah drops to the mat. Her mouth began to swell. Vermeulen is standing while Lyons is on the ground on her back. Yasmine decides to stepback and allows Lyons to get back to her feet.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Jesus. The first time Maliyah's chin really been tested and it barely held up. That hook was a missile.
ERICK COSTA
Again, there’s a reason Vermeulen is not an easy fight for anyone. Lyons has to stay calm, keep her distance an’ pick her spots.
[Yasmine Vermeulen tries a nice one-two combination. She scores. Vermeulen moves forward looking for some grappling action. Vermeulen has Maliyah in a text book double collar thai clinch! Lyons doesn't want to clinch as she ducks under Yasmine Vermeulen embrace and tries to move away...Yasmine Vermeulen pushes Lyons forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Yas and her team knows Maliyah has some of the more vicious kicks in Union. By keeping her in the clinch that takes away those.
ERICK COSTA
Yas has fought a perfect fight so far, her gameplan has worked masterfully an’ she has controlled the pace; which is all you can really ask from her.
[Still clinching things stalls and Herschel Warden separates the fighters and tells them to continue fighting. Vermeulen decides to launch some tentative punches. Lyons launches a couple of jabs that are answered by Vermeulen with a stiff cross. Vermeulen decides to launch some more tentative punches. Lyons fires back and Yasmine takes the best of a brief punching exchange.]
KENNARD ROZIER
I like what I'm seeing from Yasmine. Maliyah who normally gets into a groove early hasn't got anything goin.
ERICK COSTA
Vermeulen has taken the fight to Lyons. I knew this was gonna be a test for her; I know her team knew that, she has to make some adjustments an’ see if she can work her way back into the fight.
KENNARD ROZIER
Maybe look to pull guard right now and work for submission attempts. She can pull them off from anywhere on the mat.
[Yasmine Vermeulen fakes a punch and shows some footwork moving aside. Maliyah Lyons feints and Yasmine throws a jab. Maliyah weaves it and lands a solid kick to the head. Yasmine steps backwards and the fighters start circling the cage.]
KENNARD ROZIER
This round is far from over and Maliyah needs to find her rhythm now if she wants to win it. She can't let Yas get off first. She gotta initiate the action.
ERICK COSTA
This is what it takes, this is Lyons’ fight. She’s got to keep her distance, pick her spots an’ not let Yas determine the pace.
[The two exchange wildly. Vermeulen is connecting with a few punches. Vermeulen jumps over Lyons and tries to grapple. Yasmine pushes Lyons against the fence in a plum position. Lyons doesn't want to clinch as she ducks under Yasmine Vermeulen embrace and tries to move away.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Yasmine has been dictating everything out there. She's just been a step ahead of Maliyah.
ERICK COSTA
Much like Ochoa in the first Prelim, Yas has proven that a good clinch game can take you far. She has controlled everythin’ here an’ I have no doubt that it has frustrated Lyons’ game a bit.
[Yasmine Vermeulen pushes Lyons forward and doesn't allow her to break the clinch. Vermeulen then pushes off of Lyons before she charges towards Maliyah with a flying knee. Maliyah gets hit in the chest and the impact sends her to the mat. Maliyah crumbles to the mat. Knowing she's done Herschel Warden steps in and ends the fight.]
KENNARD ROZIER
OHHHH! What a fucking knee bruh.
ERICK COSTA
The clinch! Pluggz! Yas is lethal in the clinch an’ Lyons’ let her fight as Yas wanted.
KENNARD ROZIER
This is how you bounce back. Yasmine did that shit in a big way. Her deposit gonna be healthy after this finish tonight.
ERICK COSTA
We’ve seen two great KO’s so far… it’s gonna be hard for the rest of the card to pick up that check.
KENNARD ROZIER
No doubt bro. Maliyah has all the talent in the world. Yasmine just had her number tonight.
ERICK COSTA
It was one of those nights, Maliyah had her first test, it isn’t the en’ of the world. She just needs to pick up a page from Yas an’ bounce back stronger for her next one. Who knows, that might be the next one for me...
KENNARD ROZIER
Well damn bruh im sad to say.. .That's it for us EC. I enjoyed having you with me tonight bruh. Tell Carrick and Jason we coming for their spots when we retire.
ERICK COSTA
At least brin’ me a stool next time, I looked like a smurf out here!
KENNARD ROZIER
HAHAHA… For EC I'm your Union Heavyweight Champion Kennard Rozier and kudos for joining us tonight for the UGP 20 prelims here in the Windy City. It's hella action left for tonight y'all. Stay loaded and we a catch ya later.
Winner: Yasmine Vermeulen by TKO (Knee to Chest) at 2:35 Round 1
Statistics: Maliyah Lyons
Punches 1/5 (20%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 11 s
Statistics: Yasmine Vermeulen
Punches 10/12 (83%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s