top of page
This site was designed with the
.com
website builder. Create your website today.Start Now
UGP21_Logo.png
staff_240x240_Harper.png
staff_240x240_Price.png
staff_240x240_Jackson2.png
240x240_staff_Dempsey.png
staff_240x240_Andrada.png
staff_240x240_Brickel.png
staff_240x240_Taylor.png
staff_240x240_Lowe.png
240x240_staff_Warden.png
240x240_staff_Green.png
240x240_staff_Whittaker.png
240x240_staff_Ripley.png
UGP21_Octagon.png

AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER

DALLAS, TEXAS

JULY 5, 2020

CLICK HERE FOR PRELIM RESULTS

240x240_staff_TNT.png

PRESHOW

TENSLEY TAYLOR SINGS

THE NATIONAL ANTHEM

​

Follow Tensley Taylor on Twitter

@TensleyTaylor

​

UGP18_ITC_Cageside-Commentators.png
UGP21_Huynh-vs-Reed.png

MIKE DEMPSEY

Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas for UGP 21! And now, this opening contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Bantamweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-3. She stands 5’2”, and weighing in at 120 pounds. She is from Chicago, Illinois, fighting out of the Lion’s Den FC Las Vegas, presenting “Firecracker” Megan Reed!

 

[Megan Reed glares at her opponent from the opposite corner.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

After going 1-3 in her first four fights with Union Grand Prix, Megan Reed put a lot of work into fixing the things that needed fixed and her last two fights have shown just how much work she put in. A TKO victory over Zoe Sinai hinted at what was to come, but I thought her fight with Julia Tran at UGP 19 was flat out impressive. Her ground and pound, and really just her striking in general is immense. She’s got a tough fight on her plate tonight, but she’s certainly not going to get out worked.

 

JASON JACKSON

Megan Reed is always a threat. She trains with her husband Aries, who is KNOWN for his tremendous KO power and her hands boast that same kind of thunder. That’s why they call her firecracker. This is actually a rematch, as these two first met at UGP 16, where Megan lost at the end of round one thanks to a picture perfect high kick from Arnie Huynh. She’s no doubt looking to avenge that loss and get that win back but standing in front of her, like you said, is a real test.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

I want to throw in something technical myself right now but I can’t get over the death stare. I wanna ask what Arnie did but I think it’s better if I stay here and call like I am supposed to. Outside of the stare, I’ll add the obvious, with this being a #3 vs #7 matchup the shift in rankings is a guarantee. How? Depends on the two bodies inside, style points will make a difference too I would think. Don’t just win this fight, win it with some flair because the Bantamweight division is too deep for anything less.

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Tang Soo Do striker holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-1. He stands 5’11”, and weighing in at 135 pounds. He is from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, fighting out of 36th Street MMA, presenting “Chef” Arnie Huynh!

 

[Arnie Huynh raises his fists in his corner. He seems confident.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

And this product of 36th Street MMA has all the talent in the world. His only loss coming at the hands of ScrapYard’s own Griffin Dawson and some would argue that he was in control of that fight and simply got caught. Arnie bounced back well against Saffron Harris, someone who is NEVER an easy fight for anyone, at Boss Fight Eighteen. A win here tonight surely gets him into the bantamweight title picture that already is overcrowded.

 

JASON JACKSON

There we see Middleweight contender Zion Momo’a in his corner. These two train together a lot from what I’ve heard. Arnie is actually the chef over at their gym, can you believe that? This kid is 3-1 and charging toward title contention and he rolls sushi in his free time between training sessions. It’s unbelievable. He’s got some nasty kicks that can only be compared to Robert Guilliman or Natalie King and a rock solid chin as well. He likes to brawl and you can bet he’s going to come right at Megan tonight and not stop until one of them drops. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Then he needs to give the guy in catering some points after the fight. I’m not saying anything, I’m just saying. One thing I believe may have been said about him before is his build. He’s an extremely long guy for the division and anyone going up against him has to be mindful and careful of that. Add the kicks like Jason said and it’s a tough night for anyone. But Megan looks more than murderous ready.

 

=========================================

ROUND ONE

=========================================

 

[The bell rings and the two fighters move forward, foregoing the glove-touch and getting straight into the action. Reed opens with a jab, but Huynh avoids it and throws a lightning quick high kick that connects! Reed shakes it off quickly, though, and throws a looping overhand right, that just barely misses. Huynh counters with a quick series of jabs, most of which Reed is able to block or completely avoid, but she does have to back up in the process. Reed feigns a punch, then drops low for a double-leg takedown, but Huynh’s able to sprawl quickly and prevent the takedown.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Smart strategy from Reed here in the early going. She knows that Arnie’s kicks are deadly, but she’s got the advantage on the ground. None of the referee’s here in Union really favor fighters who want to make their bones on the canvas, but if she can get him there and control him, this could be a long night for Arnie. Unfortunately for Megan, he managed to stuff that first double leg attempt but lets see if sh-OH BIG RIGHT HOOK!

 

JASON JACKSON

YAHTZEE! WOP! She is shook! 

 

[As Reed gets back to her feet, Arnie blasts her with a powerful right hook that staggers her! As he presses forward, Megan’s compromised balance causes her to slip to the ground. She recovers her bearings and throws an up-kick before Arnie can engage, but he’s able to avoid it before backing up and beckoning Reed back to her feet--which she happily obliges. The two engage once again, each throwing punches that don’t land, before they both throw kicks--Megan goes high, while Arnie goes low. Arnie’s kick is significantly faster, and before Megan can land her’s, her leg is swept out from under her!]

 

JASON JACKSON

COBRA KAI! Sweep the leg! Er… sorry It’s been a long quarantine. Speaking of… Carrick where is your mask? 

​

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Yeah Carrick, what about safety? Another speed kills example lead by Arnie. She has maybe one more of those before it starts to sh---nevermind, the welts begin. 

 

[Arnie tags Megan’s legs with a series of kicks, while staying just out of range of any up-kicks Megan might throw; she stays on the ground for the better part of a minute, trying to goad Arnie into engaging on the ground with her, throwing more annoying kicks in his direction than anything powerful, but he doesn’t take the bait. Eventually, he just backs up and allows her to stand up once again. Megan fakes a punch and moves in to try to tie Arnie up in a clinch, but Huynh’s able to counter with a couple quick jabs before circling away from Megan.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

She’s got the right idea but she just can’t seem to put it all together just yet. I like that she’s continuing to pressure him, though. You don’t want to let Arnie get comfortable and find his range with those big kicks of his.

 

JASON JACKSON

She HAS to close that gap, unfortunately. She just doesn’t have the reach to stand outside the pocket and fight from the outside. She’s gotta get right in their faces and generate that power in close. This works wonders with negating the kicks of Huynh however. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

The problem is, I don’t believe she’s going to be able to get inside like she wishes without taking a little damage on the way. Either allow Huynh to let a few fly and catch him there or continue on the aggressive like she is but watch for the she’ll need to watch for the counter.

 

[Megan’s in pursuit of Arnie at this point, but Huynh’s on his bicycle; she throws a huge right hook, but he’s able to circle away and get back to the center of the cage. She moves in with a couple jabs, then throws a big right hook--but Arnie avoids the punch and tags her with a counter one-two combo! Whether she’s frustrated or just looking for a knockout, Reed starts swinging for the fences, but Arnie’s happy to step back and avoid the damage--which Reed responds to by beckoning him to actually fight!]

 

JASON JACKSON

Ask and you shall re-SHIIIIIT! Clack-clack! 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

She wants the action and can't blame her but Arnie might be getting her exactly where he wants her this way.

 

[And fight Arnie does--when Megan moves in, he moves in too, and lands a huge straight right to her jaw! Megan staggers back a step before launching a leg kick, that Arnie’s able to check, then he ties her up in an over-under clinch. Reed tries to break away, but Arnie secures his clinch and hammers her ribs with a series of hard shots! Arnie pushes Megan up against the cage, landing a few more shots while he does, but she’s able to regain her guard and--eventually--cause a stalemate, forcing Willie Green to step in and separate the two.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Man, all of the breaks seem to be going Arnie’s way but Megan continues to push forward, unafraid. Woman has a whole lot of heart on her.

 

JASON JACKSON

Fearless. It’s definitely a Reed thing. I know from first hand experience. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

The aggression is great but it isn’t if it ends up with the opponent getting the upper hand. I’m starting to wonder if Arnie began this fight on the bike just to frustrate her.

 

[The two re-engage at the sound of the ten-second clapper, in a wild exchange of punches! Nobody lands anything with any real impact, but Arnie’s able to dodge one of Megan’s shots and counter with a quick head kick! The bell sounds to end the round just after the kick lands, and the two head to their corners.]

 

=========================================

ROUND TWO

=========================================

 

[Round 2 begins similarly to round 1--both fighters meet in the middle, skipping the glove-touch; instead, Reed throws a huge one-two combo that JUST misses, as Arnie steps backwards and throws a high kick that connects with Megan’s neck! Staggered, she throws a push kick to keep Arnie at bay--and while it does that, it doesn’t actually land. Megan throws a few jabs to try to gauge her range, but it’s Arnie who gets a better feel for the distance, and he throws a flying knee that connects with Reed’s chin! Amazingly, she’s still on her feet--but her mouthpiece went flying, and her lip is busted. She throws a couple punches to try to keep Arnie back, but he avoids them and moves in for a clinch.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Shite, there goes her mouthpiece. But goddamn I don’t know how she’s still standing herself!

 

JASON JACKSON

In the words of Bubba Sparxx…. it’s getting ugly in here. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

By the end of the first I was thinking about it but now I’m convinced. He may be a rookie but he’s playing the pace game here against her. She’s going to have to take a breather and get her range back. This clinch might be the breather.

 

[Reed’s able to overpower Arnie at first, backing him up against the cage before taking a half-step back and throwing a middle-kick...but Arnie’s able to deflect it and push Megan away, giving up his clinch as quickly as he got it and circling back toward the center of the cage. Megan starts to look frustrated, and pursues Huynh, which gets her caught with another high kick! This one really stuns Reed, who looks wobbly in the immediate aftermath, but she’s able to regain her bearings enough to avoid any further damage right away.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Oh lord mercy, she hittin the 5 'o'clock slide.

 

JASON JACKSON

She is on dream street right now fellas. I’d be surprised if she even knows where she is at this point. 

 

CARRICK PRICE

You better finish this one right now Arnie, don’t let her get back into the fight. 

 

[Arnie pushes forward, throwing a series of jabs and crosses, finishing the combination with an overhand right; mostly, Megan’s able to deflect or avoid the punches, but a few get through, just enough to back her up. Arnie moves in and connects with a huge uppercut that puts Megan back on dream street; she shoots for a takedown, but Arnie cracks her with a kick to the head as she comes in! Willie Green almost steps in to stop the fight right there, but Megan’s responsive and defending herself--to an extent. She gets back to her feet, but Arnie ties her up in a double-underhook! He lands a powerful knee to the ribs that stuns Reed, then pushes her away and follows up with an absolutely brutal head kick! Megan may still be responsive, but Willie Green has seen enough, and calls an end to the fight.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Goddamn! GOD FUCKING DAMN! I want to applaud Arnie for those fucking nasty knees and that big head kick at the end. I want to. But how… how the hell is Megan Reed still standing?! I mean fucks sake Willie Green made the right call but how?!

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

The uppercut was enough but she still had it in her to try for a takedown. I know it’s Sunday but Jesus. 

 

JASON JACKSON

Heart. Tenacity. A true love for the sport. Megan Reed is as legit as they come but tonight was the Arnie Huynh show. Call it food network because the chef was serving it up hot and fresh. 

 

[The crowd explodes into cheers and Huynh is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Reed for a while before eventually helping her to her feet. After doctors and cut men finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

Ladies and gentlemen, referee Willie Green has called for a stop in this fight at three minutes twenty-five seconds in the second round, for your winner by technical knockout, “Chef” Arnie Huynh!

 

[The crowd cheers once again as Huynh 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: Arnie Huynh by TKO (High Kick) at 3:25 Round 2

 

Statistics: Arnie Huynh

Punches 24/36 (67%)

Kicks 12/12 (100%)

Clinch strikes 3/4 (75%)

Takedowns 0/0 (0%)

GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)

Submissions 0/0 (0%)

Clinch Attempts 2/2 (100%)

Time on the ground 0 s

 

Statistics: Megan Reed

Punches 0/12 (0%)

Kicks 0/4 (0%)

Clinch strikes 0/2 (0%)

Takedowns 0/1 (0%)

GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)

Submissions 0/0 (0%)

Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)

Time on the ground 83 s

UGP21_ITC_Melendez.png
UGP21_Belazco-vs-Vermeulen.png

MIKE DEMPSEY

Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Lightweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-2. She stands 5’5”, and weighing in at 144 pounds. She is from Antwerp, Belgium, fighting out of R-Grip MMA, presenting Yasmine Vermeulen!

 

[Yasmine Vermeulen glares at her opponent from the opposite corner.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

I don’t know what the fuck R-Grip MMA is but that’s really not all that consequential. Looking forward to some lightweight action as we try and get a little bit of a clearer picture near the top of the division. I imagine the winner here tonight should see a potential contendership bout with Natalie King if she doesn’t drop full time down to bantamweight, or maybe even August Pope. If Vermeulen gets the win here, and Bellamy manages to pull off the upset in the Co-Main event, this could very well be a big night for the future of the Lightweight division

 

JASON JACKSON

Not much exposure for this gym, but I think Vermeulen is looking to change that and put, what was it? R-Grip MMA? On the map. She’s a Belgian kickboxer, Uce. Belgium and The Netherlands are known for producing some very competent kickboxers and we very well could see a nasty kick KO here. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Glad to see more gym names getting out there. It’s deserved to the sport to have different voices and backgrounds. It will make the sport as a whole better because the talent will only get better. It’s just like you gentlemen have said this fight can open up a lot for the victor because so many things are still to be decided in the Lightweight division. Not that facing King is considered to be a spoil to most.

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

And her opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 7-6. He stands 5’7”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from San Diego, California, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, presenting “The Black Knight” Xabier Belazco!

 

[Xabier Belazco glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Standing in the way of that next wave of fighters, though, is father time himself, Xabier Belazco. And man, after taking some time off, he really came back looking strong in his last fight in a tough, grueling battle with Tatum Momo’a. He definitely wants that last ride at the top of the division. Lets see if he can take one more step in that direction here tonight.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

A man of wars and battles and has been known as one of the workhorses in the division and MMA in general. An up and down career in that cage but one thing Xabier brings to the table every time he’s in there, excitement. People acknowledge  that there’s no beating father time but on the other side some of the best we’ve seen in a Union cage are up there in age.

 

JASON JACKSON

Experience goes a long way in this sport and Xabier has an abundance. He’s been in some wars here within the Union GP cage but you’ve gotta think he’s got his eyes set on winning the strap before he goes. His plan here should be to take this kickboxer down to the mat and do what he does best. Test the up and coming striker’s grappling ability. See just how well rounded they are. 

 

=========================================

ROUND ONE

=========================================

 

[The bell sounds to get this fight underway. Belazco and Vermeulen touch gloves in the center of the octagon and Vermeulen doesn’t waste much time as she launches a flurry of punches. Some only graze Xabier while he evaded several good body shots. Vermeulen follows with some solid jabs that land on their mark before both fighters circle around to the center of the cage. Both fighters circle around looking for any angles. Yasmine throws some tentative punches to find her range before launching a massive head kick! Belazco reads it well though and dodges the kick and Vermeulen slips and falls to the canvas!]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Love the aggressiveness from Yasmine early on but she needs to be a little bit more in control. That’s probably a bit of nerves and knowing what a win tonight could do for her in the division. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Every fight has meaning and you don’t get paid per hour. If you are going to go then go. Then again we’ve seen where that pays and pains. The previous fight plays example to the pain of it. This one, we will see.

 

JASON JACKSON

I mean, you’ve gotta love a quick starter, sure. That sort of pressure can get you in heaps of trouble when fighting an experienced fella like Belazco, however. She’s closing the distance on a grappler instead of keeping herself at range and that’s like serving a takedown up on a silver platter. 

 

[Belazco moves backwards and gestures for Yasmine Vermeulen to stand up. Vermeulen cautiously climbs to her feet and is standing now. The crowd cheers “The Black Knight” on for the respectful gesture. Now back on her feet, Vermeulen looks for angles as she throws a few jabs that are countered by Xabier Belazco's punches. Vermeulen measures the resilience of Belazco's chin with an uppercut while Belazco lands some great crosses. Vermeulen and Belazco circle around the center of the cage before Yasmine fakes a move and launches another nice uppercut that lands square on Belazco’s chin! Great exchange here as the crowd erupts!]

 

JASON JACKSON

HUGE shots from both fighters here. It looks like we have a brawl! Belazco said “to hell with the ground, let’s fight!” And Vermeulen is happy to oblige. OOOOH! NASTY UPPERCUT AND XABIER IS ROCKED! 

 

[Belazco stumbles back on his heels a bit while Vermeulen moves forward looking for some action. Yasmine shows some solid wrestling skills as she puts her opponent in a double overhook. Belazco thinks fast as he doesn't want to clinch. He’s able to duck under Vermeulen and to move away. Nice move from Belazco to put some distance between them. Both fighters circle around once again then Vermeulen fires off a stinging leg kick that distracts Belazco long enough for her to rush back in with double overhooks again! Not a lot of action transpires as Vermeulen takes a break to breathe while holding Xabier Belazco and the referee eventually intervenes to break up the clinch.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Goooood use of that leg kick to get the Black Knight tied back up in the clinch, but she’s got to find a way to do something with it before the referee separates them.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

The refs could allow for more time for things to play out but that’s just me. You can’t stall for time but there’s a lot more that comes to play and does take time for that.

 

JASON JACKSON

You know, it’s crazy that the striker is grappling here and the grappler is avoiding it like the plague. Play to your strengths man. I’d hate to see this bite Xabier in the ass because he wants to stand and bang like he has something to prove. 

 

[Both fighters circle around now and look for angles. Vermeulen throws a hook to the body, but Belazco dodges it. Yasmine pushes Belazco away, then launches a stinging leg kick that connects and then quickly follows it up with some tremendous strikes. Belazco tries to defend them, but some big punches are landing and now Vermeulen pushes Belazco up against the fence in a plum position. Vermeulen tries to control Belazco in the clinch and use her dirty boxing. Vermeulen pushes the back of Belazco's head with one hand and punches his head a few times with the other. Vermeulen switches things up and starts launching some bone breaking punches to Belazco's ribs while in the clinch. Belazco blocks the body shots and tries to take Vermeulen down, but she’s able to keep her balance while pushing off of Belazco.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

There we go. Make use of your time in the clinch. Those shots to the ribs will pay dividends now and later in the fight if we get that far.

 

[The two fighters start to circle away from the fence before Vermeulen tries to grapple again. Xabier tries to shrug his way out of the clinch but Vermeulen is determined and pummels through and manages to retain her position. Both fighters are tied in a clinch once again and Vermeulen is launching some bone breaking punches to Belazco's ribs. You can see the pain in Belazco's eyes as those brutal body shots land clean. Vermeulen stomps on Belazco's feet while in the clinch and those are more annoying than damaging to Belazco. He tries to push Vermeulen away, trying to keep the fight at striking range, but Vermeulen doesn't want to break the clinch as she still is grappling with Belazco.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

I don’t think it was a fast start for Vermeulen as it’s been a slow start for Belazco, he’s in positions that normally are comfortable. Vermeulen is just ready to roll.

 

JASON JACKSON

Love those foot stomps man. People think they are just annoying but if you really come down with your heel on the top of the foot you can do some damage. Hell, you could even fracture their foot. Hard to kick with a broken foot. 

 

[Vermeulen throws some knees to the thighs of Belazco and those seem to be causing trouble for Xabier. Vermeulen tries to stomp on Belazco's feet while in the clinch again, and once again they seem to be more annoying than damaging. A series of exchanges now forces Belazco's back to the fence, and without much delay, Vermeulen charges forward with a flying knee! The big knee connects and if not for the fence, Belazco will be sent flying!]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

A Devastating knee!! He’s against the fence instead of falling out! 

 

[Still tied in a clinch, Vermeulen jumps forward, leading with her knee. The hard impact to the face sends Belazco to the mat!  Vermeulen is standing while Belazco is on the ground on his back. Vermeulen launches a kick to Belazco's thigh and connects with a loud pop! It looks like Belazco hyper-extended his left leg! Another kick to the thigh connects before the buzzer finally sounds. The ref stops the action and both fighters head back to their corners.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Oof. Nasty kick at the end has Xabier hobbling back to his corner. I’m sure the doctor is going to want to have a few words with him before the second round kicks off but this was an easy 10-9 round for Yasmine. She really started to pour it on in the latter half.

 

JASON JACKSON

Definitely 10-9 for Yasmine. The RK crew needs to really snap Belazco out of whatever trance he is in out there. Vermeulen has been all over him like stink on shit and he hasn’t once tried to pull guard or attempt a takedown. I’m a little confused. Was his tactic coming in to strike with the striker? 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Must give this round to Vermeulen, I don’t see how you can go any other way. A well controlled round and she’s keeping Belazco uncomfortable. It’s going to be a short night if things stay this way.

 

=========================================

ROUND TWO

=========================================

 

[The second round opens up and Vermeulen is still in good shape while Belazco slightly limps out from his corner. As the two close the distance, Vermeulen fires off repeated leg kicks, punishing Belazco's legs in the process. Vermeulen moves forward looking for some action now and puts her opponent in a double overhook once again. Vermeulen throws some knees to the thighs of Belazco while in the clinch and they seem to be causing trouble for Belazco. Yasmine unloads another combo then finishes it off with another flying knee and Belazco looks like he is in some serious trouble!]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Goddamn you can tell Yasmine smells blood and knows that that knee is bothering him. Look at her target his legs, man. That’s just smart fighting right there

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

A full calculated assault on them now. It’s hard to shoot without your legs under you. She’s taking away anything threatening while being the full threat herself!

 

JASON JACKSON

That’s the Belgian kickboxing, my man. The Dutch and Belgian kickboxers love to utilize leg and liver kicks. She’s controlling every aspect of this bout.

 

[Belazco doesn't want to stay in the clinch and tries to duck under, but Vermeulen pushes forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch. Vermeulen slightly pushes Belazco into the fence and tries to calm down the action now. After a stalemate, the referee intervenes to break the clinch. Both fighters circle around a bit looking to catch their breath. Vermeulen makes the first move and fires off some more leg kicks that are just punishing Belazco's legs. Belazco circles out but Vermeulen stays close on his tail, measuring him up with her jab. Vermeulen moves forward looking for some grappling action and gets Belazco in a textbook double collar thai clinch!]

 

JASON JACKSON

I think he’s lost his will to fight. This is sad to watch man. He’s just in survival mode now. 

 

CARRICK PRICE

Come on Xabier, you gotta show something man.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

He’s gotta check those kicks! It’s almost too late the damage on his legs is telling the story.

 

[Vermeulen goes back to stomping on Belazco's feet then postures up and launches another series of punches! A lot of them are hitting Belazco hard, who may be wondering how to escape from this! Belazco doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Vermeulen and tries to move away but she pushes forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch. Vermeulen eventually pushes Belazco away, trying to keep the fight at striking range. Belazco stumbles backwards and Vermeulen circles to get the center of the cage before a hook just grazes Belazco's left cheek.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

He’s on the move but Vermeulen is hot on him. You can see he can barely keep the distance due to his leg.

 

[Belazco starts to circle into his opponent. Vermeulen fakes a punch and launches herself over Belazco! Vermeulen locks in another clinch and pushes Belazco against the cage. Vermeulen gets her feet set and launches another flying knee that connects hard and that strike sends Belazco to the mat. Vermeulen is standing while Belazco is on the ground on his back. Vermeulen launches a kick to Belazco's thigh and connects. That leg has taken some serious damage. Vermeulen creates space and allows Belazco to stand back up. Belazco struggles to climb to his feet and is standing now. Vermeulen circles around Belazco and launches a furious leg kick and Belazco folds back down to the canvas! The ref pulls off Yasmine Vermeulen! Belazco seems confused as the bell sounds, signaling the bout is over.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

I don’t know what he looks so confused for. Your leg was already in bad shape, brother and it looked like it fully gave out on you after that last one. Jordan Ripley made the right call there and after the first couple of minutes of round one this was just an absolutely dominant performance by Yasmine the rest of the way.

 

JASON JACKSON

Quite literally a one legged man in an ass kicking contest. I hate to say it but I think Belazco needs to think long and hard about whether he still wants this or not. Honestly, he didn’t show any hunger or drive tonight and I’m not sure what’s going on but he got worked. Plain and simple. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

That was a ding to ding display of taking away strengths while pouring on yours. He can’t be confused by the result, maybe the kicks but not the results. He’s been through a lot of wars but this was a very different display from the last fight. One thing MMA does is makes you look at yourself. I’m sure he will do that as will Vermeulen. Impressive showing here tonight.

 

[The crowd explodes into cheers and Vermeulen is swarmed by her corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Belazco for a while before helping him to his feet. After doctors and cut men finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

Ladies and gentlemen, referee Jordan Ripley has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes forty-four seconds in the second round, for your winner by technical knockout, Yasmine Vermeulen!

 

[The crowd cheers once again as Vermeulen has her hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]

 

Winner: Yasmine Vermeulen by TKO (Kicks) at 2:44 Round 2

 

Statistics: Xabier Belazco

Punches 4/6 (67%)

Kicks 0/0 (0%)

Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)

Takedowns 0/1 (0%)

GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)

Submissions 0/0 (0%)

Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)

Time on the ground 36 s

 

Statistics: Yasmine Vermeulen

Punches 12/19 (63%)

Kicks 13/14 (93%)

Clinch strikes 23/30 (77%)

Takedowns 0/0 (0%)

GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)

Submissions 0/0 (0%)

Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)

Time on the ground 9 s

eMMA1_Poster.png
UGP21_Brooks-vs-LaBell.png

MIKE DEMPSEY

Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Division. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Wrestler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 7-4. He stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Uniondale, Long Island, New York, fighting out of The Lair, presenting the former two-time Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Champion, “The Beast” Derrick La’Bell!

 

[Derrick La'Bell looks very relaxed in his corner.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

He gets so much flack but has been one of the main builders of the Heavyweight Division. I don’t get it sometimes.

 

CARRICK PRICE

Imma say this for my future grandfather in law. FUCK DERRICK LA’BALLS IN HIS MOUTH! Rob Jones would probably beat his ass on that boat of his. Maybe not. But you know, you gotta stand up for family

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Then again, he did call me a jinx. I didn’t appreciate that. I didn’t forget about that.

 

JASON JACKSON

How the fuck does that crackhead have a boat and I’m still trying to convince my ol’ lady to let me buy one. I call bullshit on that. But yo, you gotta put some he-spect on the former champ’s name. He gonna come out here and drop some hellbows on this guy and earn another shot at Pluggz.

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 3-0. He stands 6’6”, and weighing in at 265 pounds. He is from Lake Tahoe, California, fighting out of the Lion’s Den FC Las Vegas, presenting “The Big Bad Kaiju” L.A. Brooks!

 

[L.A. Brooks glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

A lot of Lions Den fighters on the card tonight, it seems, and L.A. comes in boasting an undefeated record but look. Look. All I know is that wins in the Heavy division mean you have to end up fighting Kenard Rozier. And, admittedly, I thought Joey was about to knock his ass out at the last Boss Fight but my guy has a chin made of granite and fists made of adamantium. It doesn’t matter what happens here tonight. Whether Derrick or L.A. wins. All it means is they’re one step closer to having to face Pluggz and that’s not a war anyone wants.

 

JASON JACKSON

Actually, I hear the man in the main event tonight would love a shot at Kenard Rozier, and I know from personal experience that he don’t back down from a fight. That aside, Brooks has been a dominant force since he stepped through the doors here. 3 and oh. All wins by Kay-Oh and the most recent? A brutal punch that shut the lights out for former champion Ferdinand Diao. If this guy can drop another former champion tonight then he is well on his way to the top of this business. If he can’t? Well, we will get to see how he deals with his first loss. It’s never an easy thing and it can change momentum for even the best of fighters and they are never the same. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

I believe L.A Brooks has been waiting for an opportunity like this. Before now people talk about his 3-0 record similar to how they talked about Rozier and his start. People see the waves rising but they don’t listen to the warning signal. You have to respect the new wave of fighters or you will be doomed to be downed by them in a lot of cases. They are hungry, ready, and wanting. Some might be scared of the challenge but we’ve seen LaBell in there. I don’t doubt Brooks wants that challenge too.

 

=========================================

ROUND ONE

=========================================

 

[L.A. Brooks and Derrick La'Bell touch gloves in the center to get this fight started. Both fighters start things off by circling around the center of the cage to feel things out. La’Bell comes in hard with a bone shattering straight right hand and thumps Brook right on the temple. La’Bell feints a move to open Brooks up for a big uppercut that lands clean on the chin. Brooks stumbles on his heels and La’Bell rushes in for some action.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

I didn’t call this coming out of the gate. The aggression from La’Bell from the bell!

 

[The Beast keeps the pressure on with some tentative punches while taking a convincing lead early in this fight. Brooks throws his hands up to try and defend himself from the punches and opens himself up to allow La’Bell to change levels and deliver a blast double leg takedown. Brooks didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!]

 

CARRICK PRICE

I know this is an interesting position for Derrick to be in. Perry tells me he’s typically a bottom, and not even a power one at that.

 

JASON JACKSON

Wait, Perry is a bottom, orrrr? Scratch that, I don’t wanna know. Beautiful power double by La’Bell here as he takes the dominant po— goddamn it.  Now it just sounds dirty. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

The fact neither of you are gay shows right now. These are horrid attempts...a very well timed takedown from La’Bell.

 

[La'Bell lands in open guard over Brooks after the takedown and quickly moves to side mount. Brooks struggles to work from the bottom as La’Bell continues to try and improve his position. La'Bell slides a knee across Brooks’ chest and secures the full mount position. Tough spot for L.A. Brooks here! Brooks launches a few weak punches from the bottom but La'Bell is able to block them effectively. Brooks fails to initiate any offense here and it's time for La'Bell to fight back! La'Bell goes to what he does best and throws down elbows, tearing up Brooks' face with those brutal elbows!]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

OOOOOOHH!! OUCH! OUCH!! YELLLOW!! HOWAREYA!! The hellbows are back ladies and gentlemen!!

 

JASON JACKSON

La’Bell is mauling the fuck out of the up and comer here with those hellbows. He’s just laying there getting pounded and… holy fuck you’ve ruined this fight for me, Uce. . 

 

[Brooks needs to do something because the referee is threatening to stop it! He’s finally able to slow the fight down by grabbing onto the back of La’Bell’s head and hooking an arm. The two fighters jostle back and forth working for position for a while and eventually La’Bell is able to slip free from Brooks’ grasp. La'Bell positions himself up for some ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows! One, two, three! Brooks is being punished here!]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Okay. So for real, where did L.A. Brooks come from? I know it says he’s got a 3-0 record but were they against actual fighters? Or just fat guys that were paid to stand still while he knocked them out? Because right now I’m not sure he’s seen the inside of a Lions Den facility in the last fifteen years.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Covid is catching everyone? 

 

JASON JACKSON

[Papers rustling] uh, says here he’s from Lake Tahoe. He is a former kickboxing standout with no ground game whatsoever who is new to MMA. Welp. He will probably take a few wrestling or BJJ classes after this one if he doesn’t quit or develop CTE.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

I love how the ground game never matters to you all until it matters. (Sigh) It’s like it’s not even here. I think every fighter has that lesson eventually. It’s called MMA for a reason, just want to use your hands sticks to boxing. Welcome to the ground Brooks. 

 

[Brooks tries to cover up but it only gives La’Bell a moment to catch his breath. La'Bell gets a good position on the ground while seeing an opening and drops an incredible flurry! He's just wailing away at L.A. Brooks now! The referee is saying he's going to stop it if L.A. Brooks doesn't defend himself! Brooks tries to roll to his side and get to half guard but La'Bell rolls him to his stomach and takes his back!]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

He’s trying to find his way out but right now it might be too deep in the woods for him. The Heavyweight division hasn’t had many displays on the ground but I do remember a Heavyweight who did make the division take notice. Fabio I believe his name was.

 

[La'Bell is in rear mount over Brooks now and things are looking really bad for the Lion’s Den prospect. La’Bell is persistent with his grappling skills and eventually slips in a hook. Brooks tries to fight him off but leaves himself open for La’Bell to rain down some more vicious elbows and now Brooks has a nasty gash on his left cheek!]

 

CARRICK PRICE

It’s kinda like watching a retarded lion kill a retarded zebra right now. Like you want to be excited for it, but really you’re just watching the special olympics.

 

JASON JACKSON

Eloquently put. The defense rests, your honor. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

La’Bell is taking an obvious weakness and testing his luck there instead of going punch for punch. If anything this is the first time Brooks has looked anything less than stellar. It might not be the greatest display of technique but I have to give La’Bell and team credit, they knew exactly where to take this fight.

 

[Brooks tries to move on the ground but shows a crack in his guard which La'Bell uses for another big elbow! Brooks' head bounces off the canvas and Herschel Warden is looking on very intently, ready to stop this at a moment’s notice. Brooks looks to be in another dimension here and La'Bell storms over him with punishing elbows! La'Bell doesn't stop hammering away while Brooks is no longer defending himself and Herschel Warden has finally seen enough! This fight is over!

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

MEDIC! Good mercy call there Herschel, it was not going to get better from there. It’s a wild night to see this. Top dollar display from La’Bell. It’s hard to lose like that but it’s those kind of wake up calls you need to become as much of a complete fighter as you can. 

 

JASON JACKSON

THAT….IS…. IT. It’s a wrap ladies and gentlemen. Brooks tastes his first sip of defeat and it was not very good at all. Like bathtub wine made from rotten apocalypse grapes. Back to the drawing board for Brooks. I’d suggest high school wrestling? Entry level Jiu Jitsu? 

 

CARRICK PRICE

Just got a text message from Perry. He said Derrick needs to be tested like Musty did.

 

[The crowd explodes into cheers and La’Bell is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. Doctors tend to Brooks 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 forty-five seconds in the very first round, for your winner by technical knockout, “The Beast” Derrick La’Bell!

 

[The crowd cheers once again as La’Bell has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]

 

Winner: Derrick La'Bell by TKO (Elbows) at 2:45 Round 1

​

Statistics: L.A. Brooks

Punches 0/1 (0%)

Kicks 0/0 (0%)

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 103 s

 

Statistics: Derrick La'Bell

Punches 4/5 (80%)

Kicks 0/0 (0%)

Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)

Takedowns 1/1 (100%)

GnP strikes 21/23 (91%)

Submissions 0/0 (0%)

Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)

Time on the ground 103 s

UGP21_ITC_Donovan.png

[A cozy chair houses a familiar leggy blonde in a black pencil skirt and white blouse, one leg crossed over the other. Nearby in a pair of nicely fitted jeans and a ScrapYard MMA polo shirt sits the lightweight champion, Delaney Donovan. On the table in between is the championship belt itself, glistening in the lights from the production crew.]

 

HADLEY SCOTT

Hey guys and dolls, it’s me Hadley and I’m here with Delaney Donovan to talk about his fight with Bellamy, the state of the Lightweight Division, and lots more. So lets get right to it, shall we, Delaney? A lot of MMA fans are talking about how Bellamy DeSilva is a dangerous fight for you stylistically and he’s certainly not been shy about making his predictions on social media. What’s going through your mind right now?

 

[Briefly Delaney adjusts his position in his chair and clears his throat before speaking.]

 

DELANEY DONOVAN

Well, first let me say thank you for the opportunity to sit down with you. I don’t do many of these but with the opportunity to match the consecutive victory marks of both Pluggz and Shooter I figured it wouldn’t hurt to sit down and talk. So, where Bellamy is concerned I don’t think too much about the things he has to say. They’re sort of what you expect out of any high level competitor. He’s not making any braggadocious claims like Lexi Scheckler did about how she was going to carry the division on her back. But he’s confident in his own abilities. If he didn’t have that confidence in himself he never would have made it far enough to get in the cage with me in the first place.

 

[Delaney pauses for just a moment and then continues on.]

 

DELANEY DONOVAN

But confidence isn’t everything and I think I’ve shown just how capable I am as a fighter. I’ve held this championship more than double the amount of days of any other former champion. I’ve successfully defended my championship more than any other previous Lightweight champion has. I’ve beaten the absolute best strikers in the world. And I’ve done it all while doing my best to bring respectability and class to this championship and this division. But, you know…”

 

[There’s an awkward pause where Delaney’s fists seem to grip the arms of the chair he sits in, but after a deep breath it seems to fade.]

 

HADLEY SCOTT

You have. You’ve been the model champion, no doubt. But lets talk about possibilities if you manage to defend your title at UGP 21. Who do you see as the next challenger to your championship if you retain? Could a third match with Natalie King be on the horizon?

 

[Double D playfully grimaces before shrugging.]

 

DELANEY DONOVAN

Hell, Hadley, are you trying to kick CTE into overdrive for me. I’ve had enough of Nat’s kicks for a lifetime but if she’s who my next challenger is to be, then a third fight it is. I’ve only got two fights left on my contract after this defense against Bellamy. So I suppose the objective observer would say that there’s two options, either I’m fighting to regain my championship, or I’m fighting another challenger. And Nat would be a worthy choice but there’s an interesting fight on the card between Yasmine Vermulen and Xabier Belazco. I think there might be a contendership fight between the winner of that fight and Natalie before I end up having to defend again. Another fight with August Pope could be on the horizon as well depending on how his next fight or two plays out. But again, I’ve only got two fights left on my contract after tonight and..

 

HADLEY SCOTT

And surely you’re going to sign an extension, right?

 

[Delaney shrugs noncommittally.]

 

HADLEY SCOTT

I know there were some tense words after your fight with Bellamy was selected for the Co-Main Event. Do you want to dive into that a bit more?

 

DELANEY DONOVAN

It’s probably for the best that I don’t.

 

HADLEY SCOTT

Well… okay bu-

 

[Delaney cuts her off, apparently whatever was brewing inside of him finally boiling over.]

 

DELANEY DONOVAN

But you know what? Fuck it. I’ve been the Lightweight Champion for nearly 300 days now and do you know how many main event matches I’ve seen? One. One. In the time since I won the Lightweight Championship do you know how many times I’ve beeen booked behind other champions? Including UGP 21? Six times. Roscoe’s seen the main event three times. I’ve been booked behind Guiliman. Booked behind Pluggz. Twice I’ve defended this championship in a fucking fight that wan’t even a goddamn CO-MAIN EVENT. That’s money out of my pocket. And for what reason? I’m a fight of the year winner. I was the first fighter in the company with ten wins in UGP. I’ll be the first to 12 too. I’ve consistently done what everyone has said was impossible to do in this division.

 

[Hadley looks to intervene and do damage control but Delaney waves his hand, cutting her off.]

 

DELANEY DONOVAN

So I don’t know, Hadley. I don’t know if I’ll be signing an extension. I’ve nearly begged for a “dream” fight against Guilliman but instead all I hear is the continued slurping of Roscoe and Pluggz dick, you know? That’s the big dream fight. That’s the one that Dante is going to give. So I don’t know, Hadley. Tell me what sort of respect, and what sort of appreciation, this company has for me. Tell me what sort of respect they have for the continued building of a fanbase in Ireland.

 

[Shaking his head, Delaney stands up and begins to pull at the cords attached to his shirt.]

 

DELANEY DONOVAN

In fact, you know what. After I defend my title against Bellamy? Pass the message along to Dante that I’m not fighting again until I’m shown the respect I’ve earned. The same respect he’s so willing to show every other champion in the company. And make sure he knows I’ve got no issue walking away for good.

 

[Pulling the microphone wires free, Delaney tosses them down into the chair he was sitting in and snatches the championship up from the table, slinging it over his shoulder, exiting the scene quickly.]

UGP21_Donovan-vs-DeSilva.png

♫

BRAZIL LA LA LA LA

BEGINS TO PLAY

♫

​

[As the upbeat music begins to play over the PA System, Bellamy DeSilva emerges to the main stage wearing his walkout fight with his 9th World crew following behind. DeSilva looks to be amped up as he bounces on the balls of his feet down the aisle to the beat of the music.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

This is obviously the biggest fight of Bellamy DeSilva’s career and he doesn’t lack confidence but the one question that everyone is going to ask is if it’s too soon. The lightweight division is deep but there has been a steep drop off in talent between Delaney, Natalie King and the rest of the division. There’s a lot of young talent, no doubt, but again this is a big moment against an opponent who has consistently thrived in the biggest moments. The talent is there for the Pride of Brazil, but this might be one of those nights that helps him get to where he wants to be later on down the line, and not necessarily right in this moment.

JASON JACKSON
This is a chance for this young man to separate himself from the rest of the pack and put the name “Bellamy DeSilva” up there with Delaney and Natalie. This is his proving ground and  he can either sink or swim., I agree with the game plan though. You don’t have to go out there and stand toe to toe with the champion and fight his fight. Take the fight to the ground and see if he can keep up with a high level BJJ practitioner. Credit where it’s due, Bellamy did score a TKO over Yasmine Vermeulen but Yasmine is not the reigning Lightweight Champion of the world. I expect Bellamy to revert back to his base and look for a slick submission on his quest to hear “AND NEW” at the end of the night. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

That is the only way it can go for Bellamy in my opinion. To your point Jason, no, they don’t have to go out there and stand toe to toe with the champion. Let me add a plotpoint to that, DON’T. Do not. Something that previous challengers seem to want to go with accept maybe King. I can understand King doing it because she can actually go round for round for the most part. But, I’ve yet to see anyone else match Delaney that way. If it isn’t in your wheelhouse don’t try to make it one in his case. It’s not going to go well with Double D. 

 

[DeSilva makes it to cageside where he strips down and gets inspected by the fight official. Once he’s been cleared to fight, he turns to give a quick fist bump to his corner crew before racing up the steps. Bellamy heads straight to his corner, where begins to shadow box and stretch out.]

​

♫

HER BREATH BEGAN TO SPEAK

AS SHE STOOD RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME

THE COLOUR OF HER EYES

WERE THE COLOUR OF INSANITY

CRUSHED BENEATH HER WAVE

LIKE A SHIP, I COULD NOT REACH THE SHORE

WE’RE ALL JUST DANCERS ON THE DEVIL’S DANCE FLOOR

♫

​

​["Devil’s Dance Floor" by Flogging Molly blasts over the loudspeaker and Delaney Donovan emerges to the stage wearing his Irish flag inspired walkout fight kit with crew members from his camp following behind. Donovan burrows his head down while slowly walking down the aisle.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

On the other hand, stylistically, this might be the worst imaginable fight for a guy like Delaney. Double thrives in the stand up. He can take a beating and will use an opponent's aggression to pick them apart bit by bit until the foundation crumbles beneath them. But Bellamy, if the 9th world corner does what I think we all expect them to do, is going to look to take this fight to the ground and while Delaney has fought high level wrestlers in the past, Bellamy has the ability to neutralize his striking and grind out a win. My instinct tells me to go with the champ, but I honestly think we might see an upset tonight.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

It’s the champ! Double D has a lot more in his standup than we’ve even seen yet. His ground game is where I’m most impressed. I believe Bellamy has it in him to stand...long enough to setup the takedowns and work he will need to put on the floor. Double can work on the floor but it's to get back to the feet or to neutralize the ground game of the challenger. I believe Double will retain and that’s because he’ll keep the fight standing.

JASON JACKSON
I disagree. I may eat my words but I don’t think we will see an upset at all. This champion has shown us that he has what it takes to hold his own, no matter where the fight goes, time and time again. Granted, anyone can have an off night, and Bellamy DeSilva MAY have what it takes to catch him slipping and lock in a submission to become the champion if he catches Delaney slipping. That being said, I saw him back stage and he is dialed in. I don’t think he’s distracted or unfocused at all and that means bad news for the challenger. I think that we are going to see Double D retain at the end of the night,possibly with a slick finish of his own. 

 

[Donovan makes it to cageside where he is checked up on by the fight official. Once cleared, he climbs up the steps and calmly takes his place in his corner while shadow boxing along the way.]

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Co-Main Event of the evening! The following contest is scheduled for five rounds and it is for the Union Grand Prix Lightweight Championship! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, an Unorthodox Fighter holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 4-0-1. He stands 5’11”, and weighing in at 147 pounds. He is from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, fighting out of the 9th World Performance Institute, presenting the number two ranked contender in the Lightweight Division, “The Pride of Brazil” Bellamy DeSilva!

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

The moment is now for Bellamy. San Antonio is letting him know it. He looks like he’s ready but the butterflies must be there. This is for all the marbles as they say.

 

[Bellamy DeSilva looks a bit uneasy. Hopefully this doesn't affect his performance.]

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 11-1. He stands 5’9”, and weighing in at 155 pounds. He is from Belfast, Northern Ireland, fighting out of The ScrapYard MMA: LA, he is the reigning, defending, undisputed Union Grand Prix Lightweight Champion of the World, presenting “Double D” Delaney Donovan!

 

[Delaney Donovan is beating himself up in the corner before the fight begins, smacking himself in the face, body and legs to get ready for his scrap.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Bright lights might be getting to Bellamy a bit. Lets see if he can shake it off quick.

JASON JACKSON
It’s not for everyone. It’s easy to fight in front of a small to medium sized crowd, but this is the big time. Co-Main Event, packed house… this is make-it or break-it for so many up and coming fighters. I hope he can overcome those emotions and take it to the champ here tonight.

​

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Usually that first punch that hits well shakes it. It’s one of those great reality moments to have in there.

OG_RD1.png

[At the sound of the bell the two fighters come to the center of the cage and Donovan offers up a glove to tap. Bellamy smirks and waves him off, half a second later shooting in for a single leg takedown. He secures it quickly and drives forward, immediately taking Donovan down to the canvas and maneuvers right into side control. The champion shows his skill on the ground right away, however, and quickly traps Bellamy back into half guard. DeSilva’s strategy shows itself early as he tries to secure Donovan’s arm for an Americana, but Delaney defends it well and manages to get his arm free of Bellamy’s grasp.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Oh they're going to the ‘ground ground’ with it. Oh I’m going to enjoy this. Bellamy is going to push Donovan for sure here, an Americana attempt within what? A minute?

JASON JACKSON
You gotta wonder if that cockiness from DeSilva might come back to bite him in the ass. Nice submission defense from the champion. Bellamy is  going to want to hide those attempts more. Delaney saw that Americana coming all the way from Houston. That’s how blatant it was.

 

CARRICK PRICE

Nice beginning to the fight for Bellamy. This is where he is going to want to keep this fight if he’s going to have any chance of accomplishing what he’s worked so hard for. The takedown was flawless and that submission attempt is going to make Delaney wary. Instead of looking to get back up to his feet he’s going to have to be a little more cautious and protective of his limbs.

 

[Both fighters jostle for position with Donovan appearing content to work from his back. DeSilva tries to open things up with a few right elbows but the champion blocks them with ease, remaining calm even as DeSilva once more looks to isolate an arm, this time seeking out a Kimura. Again, Delaney breaks the lock and begins looking to bring the challenger into full guard but Bellamy does a nice job keeping control of the position he’s in. Dusty Whittaker, however, doesn’t like that things have started to stall a bit on the ground and decides to stand both men back up.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

My black belt cries once more.

JASON JACKSON
Heeeeeere we go with this shit again. 

 

CARRICK PRICE

I don’t even have to say anything at this point. My feelings about Dusty Whittaker are well voiced. Dante and Marissa have simply chosen not to listen.

JASON JACKSON
HEY DUSTY! STOP SMOKING CRACK BEFORE THE FIGHTS! THANKS!
 

[As soon as the fight begins again, though, DeSilva is right back at his best, faking a punch before putting Donovan on his back once more. Bellamy unloads from open guard with a few hard right elbows but Donovan again dispatches those with ease and then locks his guard down quickly. Once more the fight slows and DeSilva isn’t able to make anything of his advantage on the ground, so yet again Dusty Whittaker stands the two men back up. But much like the first time the two were stood back up, DeSilva immediately puts Donovan back on the ground and this time quickly breaks free of Donovan’s attempt at closing his guard down and instead gets to side control. The challenger is smooth and seamless in his transitions when he’s able to work them, and doesn’t waste any time looking for a submission once more. This time, however, instead of trying to isolate an arm he hooks Donovan’s left leg and starts to sit back for a kneebar.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Oh fuck he might have that!

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Well set but not exactly in. Champ has room. Bellamy has to get his hip in place.

JASON JACKSON
Okay! OKAYYYYY! That was slick! The champion needs to push off with his free leg and get out of there. 

 

[But it’s not to be as Delaney manages to kick DeSilva away and swiftly scrambles on top. With DeSilva now on the bottom and Delaney in open guard, Bellamy stays calm and tries to catch Delaney with but the champion realizes the danger and stands up to avoid being caught by the submission attempt. Still, you can tell the champion is starting to get frustrated as he backs away and demands that Dusty Whittaker make him stand back up. All around the AT&T Center the fans cheer loudly for the early events of this fight. The usually jovial and easy going Donovan now looks deadly serious as the confident Bellamy DeSilva climbs back up to his feet.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

There is zero fear in this kid from Brazil. He’s got all the confidence in the world in his ability and in his gameplan. So does his corner, too. Look at how at ease they are.

JASON JACKSON
That’s probably a good thing, uce. Look at Delaney’s eyes. He’s got the look of a killer. I don’t think I’ve seen many people get him this fired up. I think we got a mothafuckiiiin FIGHT on our hands. He just can’t let his emotions lead him to a mistake. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

First time in a long time I saw someone getting under the skin of Double D while being in there though. It’s a serious look but you can tell he’s not calm. A lot of experience on the side of Delaney but it has to be a good sign for DeSilva to see him getting to the champ.

 

[When the fight begins once more, Delaney is a bit more aggressive than typical and closes the distance between him and the challenger but DeSilva pushes him away and takes a moment to collect himself and his breath. Donovan pursues him, though, and connects with a few tentative jabs that backs DeSilva off once more. He doesn’t spend too long away, though, and quickly shoots for another takedown that Delaney is just helpless to defend. The camera crew manages to catch the grimace on the champions face upon impact, pain clearly radiating through his ribs but in spite of it Donovan closes his guard down to neutralize the challengers efforts. Again Bellamy throws a few elbows, these ones aimed at Delaney’s ribs but credit to the champion for having a good sense of what is coming next and defending well. It seems to aggravate Bellamy a little bit and he gets a bit sloppy, giving Delaney the opportunity he needs to scramble back up to his feet.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Can tell Delaney doesn’t want it to be down there on a regular basis but he’s going to have to start stalling out Bellamy’s takedowns if he wants to stay on top of the scorecards. Bellamy isn’t getting much once he’s down there but the fact that he keeps putting him on his back is putting points on the board.

JASON JACKSON
Down and back up. Down and Back up. That’s going to take a toll on both men as the fight goes on, but mostly on Double D. It takes a lot of juice to hit the mat like that over and over and fight your way back to your feet. He’s got top notch stamina and cardio but there are limits for all men and once that gas tank hits empty… welp… 

 

[Quickly Delaney backs away and Bellamy gets back up and gestures at Donovan to bring the fight to him, to which Delaney obliges leading to a wild exchange where neither man is able to land much before they both circle back out. Once more they meet in the center of the cage and this time DeSilva throws a couple of prodding jabs but probably would wish he hadn’t a moment later as Delaney unloads as brutal cross that leaves Bellamy’s chin bruised. Wisely, DeSilva retreats and Donovan watches him cautiously as the final moments of the round tick down, the two fighters showing each other an immense amount of respect as the buzzer sounds, bringing the opening round to a close as the two quickly retreat to their corners.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

I said that stand up matchup wasn’t a good idea. Bellamy received that minor clue toward the end of the round but the round goes to Bellamy to me so far. More control overall and although nothin came of it a good line of submission attempts as well.

 

CARRICK PRICE

Phenomenal opening round in the books. I’ve got this going to Bellamy because of his effectiveness with his takedowns. But Delaney never let him make anything of it and really caught him near the end with the cross. 10-9 for me and it might be the first time in a long time we’ve seen Double down on the scorecard.

JASON JACKSON
I have to agree. 10-9 Bellamy just on the takedowns alone. He swarmed him for the better part of that round. Nice solid cross at the end of the round there form the Champ though. I think that Double D has come out to a slow start, so it’s going to be up to his corner to rev that engine up and get him back out there firing on all cylinders. 

OG_RD2.png

[Round two begins and the Pride of Brazil gives the champion a nod and a wink, trying to prod him into action. But Delaney, measured as ever, patiently looks for his angles before throwing a few jabs. Bellamy smartly responds with counter punches of his own, not letting Double find his rhythm that easily and a solid exchange follows. For half a moment it seems Bellamy is rocked by a massive uppercut to his chin from the champion, but he quickly finds his footing a stops Donovan’s pursuit with a snappy cross that the champion hadn’t been expecting. Moments pass as the two disengage, Bellamy seeming to reserve his energy a bit after being so aggressive in the opening round. His passiveness costs him as the champion throws a surprise roundhouse punch that connects flush and good lord it looks like DeSilva was hit by a damn bus!]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

OH MY DAMN!

JASON JACKSON
POP!

 

CARRICK PRICE

OH SHITE! DeSilva did NOT like that at all!

JASON JACKSON
No. No he did not. He’s gonna shoot. He don’t want anything to do with those hands. 

 

[Instinctively, DeSilva shoots for a takedown and manages to get Delaney to lose his balance and go down, but it doesn’t hit with the force of his takedowns in the first round. Still, it buys him the time to shake the cobwebs free and a few moments later he’s looking to catch Donovan off guard with a north south choke. Donovan manages to push DeSilva forward and break the hold, and then uses the momentary scramble as an opportunity to catch Bellamy by surprise. The end result of the scramble is Delaney finding himself inside Bellamy’s guard. DeSilva quickly tries to reverse but Donovan uses his leg to keep his position. Almost shockingly, Dusty Whittaker allows the two to spend an extended period of time jostling for position with Delaney looking to improve and Bellamy keeping him in closed guard. Finally the moment strikes and Bellamy flashes his own ability on the ground, rolling and putting Delaney on his back in full mount.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Oh my with free motion there. Bellamy is like a noodle. God, I’m sweating.

 

[Right away Delaney begins to struggle, probably a bit anxiously as it has been a long time, perhaps since his fight with Lauren Moore over a year ago, since he’s found himself in a position like this. DeSilva looks to unload, pushing Donovan down but Delaney covers up and prevents any offense from materializing.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

I’m fucking rock hard right now. I love this shite boys. This is what fighting on the ground CAN look like when you let the fighters do their thing and listen to the crowd! They’re loving it too!

JASON JACKSON
I guess Krusty Dusty heard me earlier. You’ve gotta think Delaney is not enjoying this, but something Cass Madrigal taught me a long time ago was that panicking in these positions is by far the worst possible thing you can do. He needs to stay frosty and work himself out of this bad spot and not let the panic fog his mind. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

[heavy breathing.]

 

[DeSilva takes a moment to breathe and look for an opening in Donovan’s defense but he hesitates too long as Donovan pushes Bellamy’s knee away and tries to roll, a well executed reversal puts DeSilva on the bottom yet again. From half guard Donovan tries to progress but Bellamy keeps him controlled and a few moments later Dusty Whittaker apparently remembers who the fuck he is and stands the two back up. There’s a few boo’s around the building for Whittaker but a whole lot of cheering for both the champion and the challenger who are putting on a show.]

JASON JACKSON
This fucking twat. Dusty…. I swear to Samoan Baby Jesus… I will end you. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

...I was in such a best place. Where’s my gun?

 

[When the fight resumes a few moments later it’s clear that the champion is feeling confident and he throws a few punches that land, and his boxing skill shines as he clearly outboxes the challenger. However, it doesn’t stop Bellamy from responding with a few jabs that are nicely thrown, and then he pours them on but Donovan defends and circles out, bobbing and weaving out of the way of the punches that DeSilva had thrown. They don’t spend too long apart, though, as they re-engage with a wild exchange of punches. They’re connecting and the fans erupt as both men just swing for the fences and neither one goes down!]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Ooh this is going to get bad for DeSil---oh perfect timing.

 

[DeSilva smartly ends the exchange with another takedown. He rolls for Donovan’s knee from open guard but Donovan rolls with him and gets free with a few stiff kicks before scrambling back to his feet. Bellamy doesn’t follow, though, and Delaney snaps off a kick to DeSilva’s thigh that Bellamy checks before being stood back up by Dusty Whittaker.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

The clacker sounds for the last 10 seconds of this second round!

 

[The final moments of the round commence with another takedown on the part of Bellamy DeSilva and this time he manages to progress from side mount to mount but as he does the buzzer sounds once more and brings the round to an end. The two men stand back up and Delaney blows Bellamy a kiss to which Bellamy applauds and jogs back to his corner with a smile on his face.]
 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Haha, I approve.

​

JASON JACKSON
Did he just blow him a KISS?! Bruh. HE DID!

 

CARRICK PRICE

Really tremendous round from both fighters once more. It’s clear that Delaney is fine with letting Bellamy take him down. He’s been able to neutralize every submission attempt so far and the fact that he’s defending well, and sneaking in a few reversals, has to bode well for him. On top of that he’s really been the better one when they do stand up and swing. It’s a close one but I think Donovan brought this fight back even with a 10-9 round in his favor. Your thoughts, boys?

JASON JACKSON
10-9 Double D to bring it back even. Sealed with a kiss. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Return fire sent by Donovan. Playing to his strengths while taking away Bellamy’s. I hope this goes for a while. Such a great fight so far.

OG_RD3.png

[As the third round begins the two fighters are all business now, with a quick punch just grazing Bellamy’s cheek before he nails a slick sweep single that puts Donovan down. At this point it’s just sort of business as usual that this is how things are going to go. The jostling for position continues with Donovan trying to reverse position and the Pride of Brazil maintaining it. Nearing the end of the first minute of the round, DeSilva escapes from closed guard and gets to side mount which draws a roar from the crowd. Delaney works his own magic to try and keep Bellamy stifled but DeSilva’s strength prevails in this instance. When Donovan then tries to turn away and scramble out, Bellamy takes his back and looks to lock up a rear naked choke.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER 

Oh dear God this is everything!! Slipped that in slicker than oil! Dusty don’t you ruin this.

JASON JACKSON
Oh SNAP! 

 

CARRICK PRICE

Guys, we might have ourselves a new champion! Delaney Donovan is in SERIOUS trouble right now.

JASON JACKSON
He needs to get his hand in there and…He’s out. 

 

[But he can’t quite break Delaney’s defenses and Donovan instead spins up to his feet and backs away, waving his arms for DeSilva to get back up as well. Bellamy obliges and the two quickly reengage but a right hand from Delaney misses its target and Bellamy counters with a brutal shot to Delaney’s ribs. The champion manages to shake it off, though, and unloads some big punches that land. Before Donovan can end the fight, though, DeSilva’s instincts kick in and once more Delaney is taken down. Right away from side control DeSilva looks to move to full mount but Double uses his aggression against him and traps him back in full guard. The two continue to fight for position with Delaney forcing Bellamy to expend all kinds of energy just to improve to half guard. It results in another attempt at a kneebar but Donovan is able to defend it and trap Bellamy back in full guard again.]
 

CARRICK PRICE

Look at the technique. This is what makes Delaney Donovan such a challenging fight for anyone. His striking is immense so you HAVE to take him down, which he’s happy to let you do because once he’s on his back he can just defend so well. That’s what we really work with him on at ScrapYard, you know? You can’t be the best at everything, so you try to build yourself up with a few really good strengths and the ability to neutralize the skills of others.

JASON JACKSON
He sure can scramble, that’s for sure. His ability to stay collected and escape bad positions is incredible. DeSilva showed a bit of his boxing here as well though. That shot to the body was pretty nasty. I believe that he is holding his own with the champion and showing that separation from the pack that we spoke about earlier. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER 

Bellamy is standing well, I have to say before I was giving Donovan’s ground a lot of credit so it’s not surprising me to see him make DeSilva struggle. The shots I’m seeing him give Donovan while standing on the other hand, I am surprised.

 

[The fight continues to be a ground war with Donovan consistently looking for opportunities to escape but remaining focused, above all else, on not allowing the challenger to improve his position. A quick sequence of reversals sees Donovan roll and get full mount briefly before DeSilva executes a nearly identical reversal. But Donovan uses his moment and rolls through once more, finding himself in full mount over the incredibly gifted Bellamy DeSilva. Double throws a few punches from full mount that don’t amount to much before Dusty Whittaker, inexplicably, stands the two fighters back up.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER 

These guys gotta start getting fined for this or something.

 

[The decision gets a few words of displeasure from Delaney but the fight commences and DeSilva is entirely focused on the task at hand. He finds an opening in Donovan’s defense and punishes his ribs with a nasty right hand.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Tough call by Dusty Whittaker there and you can tell Delaney didn’t like it one bit. It seems like it took his mind out of the game for a moment and Bellamy DeSilva made the most of it. That shot might have busted a rib.

JASON JACKSON
Another BIIIIG body shot landed there and you can tell that did some damage, as you said. You know I think Dusty was accountable for that. I think it was a bullshit stand-up by an incompetent ref, and I would be mad too. I said it. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER 

Ok, maybe you can stand with him. Bellamy is destroying my previous point almost as well as that shot racked Double’s middle.

 

[Following up the body blow, the Pride of Brazil plants Donovan on his back once more and again looks to isolate an arm for an Americana but it’s just not there as Delaney defends it well. The fans continue to get behind the Pride of Brazil, though, and who can blame them. He’s testing the champion more than anyone else has up to this point at least since the first fight between Natalie King and Double D.  As the champion and the challenger battle for position, Delaney defends another submission attempt before continuing to neutralize Bellamy on the ground, resulting in Dusty Whittaker standing them up yet again. This time as the fight resumes near the conclusion of the third round, it’s Delaney who batters the ribs of Bellamy DeSilva and looks to take his head off with a big right haymaker but before he can fully unload the buzzer sounds and Dusty Whittaker jumps in between the two men. There’s no joking around now between the champion and challenger, as the two simply turn and go back to their respective corners.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Some good things and some bad for both fighters in this round. I don’t think you can continue to credit DeSilva for his takedowns when nothing materializes from it. The most danger Delaney found himself in was early on with that attempted rear naked choke but I’m not sure he was ever in any real danger, and he found himself in full mount over Bellamy on two occasions. I think you’ve got to call this round even as we go into the fourth. I don’t think you could fairly give it to either fighter.

JASON JACKSON
Definitely even. Exciting and fun to watch all the way around though, as most dead even rounds usually are. These guys are putting on a show and showing the fans and the world what the Lightweight division is all about. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER 

I’m going to say it as weird as it sounds. I can see a judge or two scoring that round for DeSilva. The reason being the aggression even though it hasn't come to anything overall. The rear naked looked good and he did well in standing. We've had calls like that before. Round Four, championship rounds for a reason.

OG_RD4.png

[Into the fourth round we go and DeSilva gestures for the champion to bring the fight to him. And while he closes the distance, the two show each other an immense amount of respect and neither one unleashes anything in the early moments. Donovan opens things up with a stiff jab but Bellamy seems to shake it off fine. And for the first time in the evening Delaney pushes further, securing a single collar tie which Bellamy immediately tries to escape from but the champion doesn’t allow him to. Shockingly, Delaney looks for a takedown of his own and is successful with it, seeming to catch the Pride of Brazil off guard with the quick judo throw.]

JASON JACKSON
Ippon seoi nage! Beautiful throw by the champion. Judo throws like that always impress me in a no-gi situation. They are hard to pull off without the lapel of the Gi to grab on to for leverage. Excellent job. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Just when I think he can do nothing else to impress us. The timing to use the momentum against him. I could see the shock in Bellamy’s eyes on that one.
 

[From side control Delaney quickly slides a leg across and gets to full mount with simplicity. DeSilva tries to roll to his side and trap Donovan in his guard but Delaney rolls him through fully and takes his back. Right away he sinks his first hook in and then isolates an arm, looking for an armbar from the back.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

I am shooketh, is this really happening?

 

[Bellamy defends the submission attempt well, though, and forces his weight back on top of Delaney until he can pull his arm free. Perhaps even more significant is the fact that he forces Delaney to lose his dominant position with Bellamy now finding himself in closed guard over Delaney. Double isn’t troubled by this at all, though, as he rolls and reverses the position, yet again finding himself in full mount.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Bump, roll and just like that I’m confused. Double D is giving Bellamy fits!

 

[Shocking the fans and his own corner once more, Donovan passes his arm over DeSilva’s shoulder and pushes his arm against the mat with an American attempt, but Bellamy breaks the attempt and quickly tries to counter with a reversal but Double maintains control before Dusty Whittaker steps in to stand the two back up a few seconds later.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

I know the fans like seeing the submission attempts from Double D but that’s not his skillset and it feels like he wasted a good opportunity from mount. That’s probably not the popular opinion, though.

JASON JACKSON
Maybe he wanted to show Bellamy that he could bust out the ol’ Americana too. It was just 4th of July, Carrick.. Americanas for everyone! You get an Americana, you get an Americana… ‘Merica! 

 

[With both men standing up, Donovan steps forward and swings. Oh it catches DeSilva flush and puts him on his bike. Donovan pursues and lands a few more strikes before slamming a bone shattering right hand into DeSilva’s face, just beneath his eye. For half a second it buckles Bellamy’s knees but he steadies himself and quickly shoots for a double leg takedown before Delaney can send him into orbit with an uppercut. Delaney sprawls though and stays on his feet. He swings as DeSilva gets back up but Bellamy shows good head movement to avoid the dangerous strike. The Pride of Brazil counters with a superb haymaker but Donovan easily steps aside and it misses, the two fighters circling out afterward.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Once again Bellamy sneaks that takedown attempt in like a thief in the night. It saves him like no other time in this fight because Double had him staggering.

 

[When they reconverge in the center of the cage, DeSilva throws a looping right hand but Donovan jumps back and staggers the challenger with a jab. Immediately he chases DeSilva down and fires a series of jabs and crosses, and then a solid shot to the body that Bellamy DeSilva does not like at all. The challenger manages to circle away, though, and then comes back with a sweep single attempt but Donovan shrugs off the takedown attempt and Bellamy DeSilva is forced to pull guard. Donovan doesn’t seem to mind and looks to pass from the Pride of Brazil's guard and finds some success in getting to half guard. You have to wonder, though, if Bellamy was baiting him in as he immediately looks for a kimura but Donovan blocks the hold and uses DeSilva’s sloppiness against him, pushing Bellamy’s leg down and getting to full mount. DeSilva smartly tries to escape but Delaney keeps control and remains in mount as the buzzer sounds bringing the round to its conclusion.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

We’re in championship rounds now and that one was all Delaney Donovan. He stifled DeSilva’s takedown attempts. He was in full control on the ground. And he damn near finished the fight with those nasty strikes. I think Donovan is up on the Scorecards right now by a score of 39-38 after 4 rounds. If you’re Bellamy DeSilva, I think you HAVE to finish the fight in this final round if you want to leave here the new Lightweight Champion.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Control’s name is Double. If Bellamy had any control going into this round it’s lost up now. Donovan has switched it up now playing to the ground so much he’s taking Bellamy to it. This is it now, I think its all or nothing for Bellamy but Donovan can’t afford to slack.

JASON JACKSON
Remember when I said his corner needed to fire up the engine and get him rolling? CHOOOO CHOOOO.. The Double D express is chugging along at full speed right now. The challenger really needs to step it up here in the deep waters. This is where a fighter’s heart and soul are tested.He needs a finish here to walk away as the new champion. Does he have it in him? 

OG_RD5.png

[Both men step out of their corners to raucous applause and cheers and it seems to egg them into starting things off with a bang. The two exchange wildly in the center of the cage with Delaney connecting with a few of his strikes but Bellamy doesn’t allow that to last for long as he slips in a slick single leg takedown. Though he begins in side control, Delaney quickly shuts that down and brings him back into full guard and it isn’t long before, yet again, Donovan executes a lovely reversal.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Delaney may be a striker but his knack for positioning his hips right where he needs to before making his move is uncanny.

 

[DeSilva is able to slip back to half guard though before Delaney can get any offense in from mount. Almost as if to punish him for slipping free from mount, Donovan throws a couple of elbows toward Bellamy’s ribs and they land solid, the camera capturing the grimace of pain on DeSilva’s face as they connect.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

That trains still rolling. DeSilva needs to do something to stop Delaney’s momentum.

 

[Delaney uses the distraction to slips his leg free and once more get to mount but the war on the ground continues as DeSilva immediately traps Donovan back into half guard. Back and forth they go, though, as Donovan pushes DeSilva’s leg down and gets to mount again. Recognizing that this can’t be good for the scorecards, DeSilva tries to roll to his side and get to guard over Delaney with a reversal, but Delaney rolls him through yet again and takes his back. This time, instead of looking for a submission, Donovan throws a barrage of punches but Bellamy covers up well.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

I’m sweating once again. How is he this damn good on the ground? Before I said he deals with the ground to get back to the feet, now he is ground and pounding Bellamy to the Earth. Is this really happening?

JASON JACKSON
Oh how the tables have turned. Double D takes DeSilva’s back and he’s raining down some heavy shots! It looks like Bellamy is blocking well, but still… You can’t hang out there and take shots like that all day. The clock is ticking and you my man are in a baaaad spot. 

 

[Seeing Bellamy cover up, Delaney sinks one hook in and right away begins looking for another. It’s almost as though you can feel DeSilva’s spirit breaking a little bit as he doesn’t fight back in giving Delaney the second hook either and things could begin to get bad. With two hooks in, Delaney continues working on the desperate Bellamy DeSilva who tries to defend himself while Delaney starts to look for the rear naked choke to finish the fight. It’s an absolute nightmare scenario for the challenger as Delaney has his arm draped over Bellamy’s shoulder and is ready to lock in the rear naked choke. But it’s no secret that Delaney isn’t skilled in submissions and he gets just a little sloppy in his execution allowing Bellamy the chance to escape from the perilous position. He isn’t able to do so but it does bring a pause to the action as Donovan takes a moment to catch his breath, and unfortunately with a referee like Dusty Whittaker that is more than enough reason to stand the two fighters back up. The fans voice their displeasure but there’s a look of relief on the faces of the 9th world cornermen.]

JASON JACKSON
You gotta be kidding me. Don’t stop to breathe on the ground when Krusty Dusty is officiating the fight guys. He’ll stand you up. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Both are starting to feel the minutes they might take it to the grave but they could be thankful. Double D was in control in that moment and that does mean more help to Bellamy.

 

[As the fight resumes Delaney sends a sour look toward Dusty Whittaker before heaving a breath of air into his lungs. Both men look tired and unsurprisingly so as they’ve been working their asses off. While the two consider each other's defenses, it’s Delaney who acts first and uncorks a brutal left that is sure to leave DeSilva with a headache tomorrow. The champion is unable to capitalize, though, as DeSilva’s instincts kick in once more with a smooth sweep single that puts Donovan down. From guard, Bellamy tries to improve his position but Donovan counters by rolling on the ground and once more he finds himself in mount over the challenger. Almost as though it’s a replay from an earlier round, DeSilva rolls to reverse, Delaney rolls him through and takes his back, looking to get a hook in but can’t. The two jostle for position and Delaney smartly maintains control by shifting and finding his way back to half guard. Desperately, DeSilva throws his legs up for a triangle but Delaney is having none of it and stands up to avoid the attempt. Seconds later Dusty Whittaker halts the fight to stand the Pride of Brazil back up as well.]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

You can see the hope fading with every attempt but to his credit the Pride is still going. He’s getting desperate and looking at the time you can’t blame him.

 

[Both men glance at the clock as the fight resumes, but DeSilva doesn’t want to get anywhere near the fists of Delaney Donovan and does his best Floyd Mayweather impersonation by not engaging. Donovan pursues, though, feeling that he could finish the fight and throws a punch that just whizzes past DeSilva. Bellamy counters with a takedown that’s successful but Donovan, as he has for the latter half of the fight, finds a reversal with ease and brings the fifth and final round to a conclusion from full mount as the buzzer sounds. Donovan stands up with his arms raised in the air, feeling confident in having retained his championship. Bellamy responds by doing the same, a look of confidence in his eyes that he has done enough to upend the champion. The camera goes back to the commentary booth while we await the judges scorecards.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

In a championship fight you don’t ever want to let the judges make the decision, but in this one I think Delaney has done more than enough to retain. It was a difficult first round for him but from there I think he won three of the final four rounds with relative ease.

JASON JACKSON
It’s going to be close. That was a damn good fight and I believe win or lose the challenger really proved his place tonight within this division. I think Delaney did enough to win, but you never know with these judges. I think he was robbed on the ground a few times in this fight as well, especially in that last round. I think it’s “And still” though. But we’ll see Bellamy DeSilva back here in the spotlight again sooner rather than later. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

You can’t win a championship by hanging with the champ. You either beat him or leave the door open to disappointment. Bellamy proved himself beyond all my expectations but Donovan completely turned the tables on the ground as the fight went on. I need to smoke a half a cigarette would have been a whole one if not for Dusty. Bellamy shined in spots but it wasn’t enough that choice to stand down toward the end of this round hurt too. The champ looks to retain to me but man a definite fight of the year nominee.

 

[The crowd is in pandemonium as both fighters head to their corners to get cleaned up. A look of exhaustion is evident in both fighters’ eyes after putting on a razor thin five round title fight. After the medical staff finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

Ladies and gentlemen, after five rounds, we go to the judges’ scorecards. Judge Miranda Franco scores it 48-47, DeSilva; Judge Max Carver scores it 49-46 Donovan; and Judge Ozzie Sebastian scores it 49-46, for your winner by split decision, AND STILL the undisputed Union Grand Prix Lightweight Champion of the World, “Double D” Delaney Donovan!

 

[The crowd roars with cheers as Donovan 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.]

 

JUDGE MIRANDA FRANCO

Delaney Donovan  9 10 9 10 9: 47

Bellamy DeSilva  10 9 10 9 10: 48

 

JUDGE MAX CARVER

Delaney Donovan  9 10 10 10 10: 49

Bellamy DeSilva  10 9 9 9 9: 46

 

JUDGE OZZIE SEBASTIAN

Delaney Donovan  9 10 10 10 10: 49

Bellamy DeSilva  10 9 9 9 9: 46

 

Winner: Delaney Donovan by Split Decision

 

Statistics: Delaney Donovan

Punches 28/40 (70%)

Kicks 0/2 (0%)

Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)

Takedowns 1/1 (100%)

GnP strikes 2/9 (22%)

Submissions 2/2 (100%)

Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)

Time on the ground 866 s

 

Statistics: Bellamy DeSilva

Punches 15/28 (54%)

Kicks 0/0 (0%)

Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)

Takedowns 13/16 (81%)

GnP strikes 0/16 (0%)

Submissions 13/13 (100%)

Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)

Time on the ground 878 s

BF20_Poster.png
UGP21_Robinson-vs-Kelly.png

[The lights in the arena dim down and a single spotlight shines at the main stage. The soft intro of “Remember This” by NF begins to play as the crowd begins to grow louder. Just as the first verse kicks in, Ardan Kelly bursts onto the main stage.]

​

​♫

YEAH, HANDOUTS CREATE LAZY PEOPLE I'M NOT IMPRESSED WITH

YOU WANT SOMETHING IN LIFE, THEN WHY DON'T YOU GO AND GET IT?

ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS DO, IT'S PRETTY QUIET, ISN'T IT?

LOOK AT THE WORLD WE LIVE IN, DEFINED BY COMMENT SECTIONS

♫

​

[The crowd pops for Kelly who is decked out in his Irish themed fight kit with ScrapYard crew members flanking him from either side. Kelly bobs his head to the song while keeping a stern focus as he begins to make his way toward the octagon.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

There aren’t many chances to become a champion in this business and when you get them you’ve got to make the most of them. Trust me, no one knows that fact better than me. Ardan Kelly had the chance to upset Shooter in the Cruiserweight Grand Prix almost a year ago now and he fell short in his first attempt. Tonight he gets something that few people in this business get to have, and that’s a second chance. A loss here and you have to wonder if Ardan will see a championship opportunity come his way again as long as Roscoe holds the belt. It’s a big night. Under the brightest lights and the whole of Ireland is watching coming on the back of an impressive five round victory for Delaney Donovan.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

The chances are rare and fighters spend their whole lives looking for the one chance. Here is Ardan Kelly who didn’t fair well the first time around but one thing that has been said constantly and I agree, he’s nowhere near the same fighter he was then. Ardan is a light in a very top heavy division needing new blood to rise to the occasion. I believe he’s coming in with more polish and looking to give a Zues thunderbolt to the whole MMA world will give Robinson something different.

 

JASON JACKSON

He’s got a big opportunity and an even bigger task ahead of him tonight. Last time these two met it was the champion who ended the fight in round two to retain his belt. This time the ScrapYard fighter is looking to claim the throne and propel himself to the summit of this sport. He is a bit timid on the feet and his saving grace would be taking this bout to the canvas and looking for a sub. Believe me, I know firsthand that it’s not an easy task when the Shooter is standing across from you with his target set. 

 

[Just as Kelly reaches cageside, he strips down to his trunks and hands them off to one coach while another coach hands him a bottled water. Kelly takes a quick swig before getting checked out by the fight official. Once he’s been cleared, he goes around each corner member and gives them each a quick hug before ascending the stairs and entering the cage. Kelly stays calm and takes in the aura while bouncing around to stay loose and warm.]

 

[Within a matter of seconds, the entire arena goes from day to night mode, complete darkness.]

​

♫

MAMA LET ME SIP THE FORTY, I WAS JUST A SHORTY (DAMN)

THEN I STARTED SPITTIN' GODLY, THEN THEY SAID RECORD ME

I FEEL LIKE THIS SHIT WAS FOR ME, THIS SHIT JUST MY STORY (FACTS)

YEAH, UH

♫

​

[Meek Mill’s “Otherside of America” plays throughout the arena, green laser lights shooting in all directions as the fans begin to stir.]

​

♫

JUMPED OFF THE PORCH, UH, I GOT A PORSCHE, WON'T TAKE IT BACK

I'M ON THE BLOCK WITH THE KILLERS AND HOLDIN' MY OWN, OF COURSE (YEAH, CHECK, CHECK)

I SEEN MY MOM AND DAD SEPARATE, AIN'T TALKIN' DIVORCE (TALKIN' DIVORCE)

SAID DADDY WAS LIVIN' BY THE FIRE, AND HE DIED BY THE TORCH (CHECK, CHECK)

♫

​

[A spotlight shines down onto the entrance way as Roscoe Robinson bursts out from the back, drawing an even louder reaction from the fans as the UGP Cruiserweight Champion makes his entrance.]

​

♫

I'M WHERE THE AKS IS, WE LIKE THE BÉBÉ'S KIDS

AIN'T HAVE A DADDY, I LISTENED TO SUCKERS THE SAME WAY THAT RAY RAY DID

I'M TOTIN' SMITH &'S AND HKS AND I JUST WAS A GRADE A KID

AIN'T HAVE NO GUIDANCE, WE GREW UP WITH HITTERS AND DID EVERYTHING THEY SAID

♫

​

[“The Shooter” overlooks the crowd from the entrance, bobbing his head with the beat of the music. His trunks are black, the same pistol in a holster we’re used to seeing stitched on his right hip in neon green and the Monster Energy logo covering the left side of his trunks. He wears a black shirt with large bold letters across the front of it reading ‘BLM’. Glistening in the bright lights shining down upon him, the UGP Cruiserweight Championship rests around his waist.]

 

[With his entourage of coaches now stepping out from the back and standing behind him, Roscoe bounces back and forth to stay loose before heading towards the cage - a warrior walking out onto the battlefield.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Well, Jason. The Real Killas Army has shown up in full once again with their most accurate gunman waiting. You’ve been in the cage with him before. You know the problems he presents. What does he need to do tonight to overcome the challenger and retain his championship?

 

JASON JACKSON

He hits hard. Unbelievably hard. I had never in my life been hit like Roscoe Robinson hit me in our fight. I was known for having one of the best chins in the business and I still to this day have never been knocked out but when he connected flush? I went wobbly and had to fight to survive and clear the cobwebs. People are thinking that the only skill that Roscoe has is a puncher’s chance, because he has knocked nearly everyone out in his journey to greatness... but let me remind all the doubters…He submitted me. Put me to sleep with a guillotine in Round 3 and I am a purple belt trained by Cass Madrigal. He’s got a well rounded, underrated, skill set and while knocking motherfuckers out may be his bread and butter? He can hold his own on the ground as well. That is what makes him a champion. He just needs to fight his fight. That’s all. If Ardan Kelly doesn’t have a chin made of titanium he will be sleeping in under two rounds. Mark my words. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

The fans feel otherwise for this one guys. So many are calling this night a night of upsets especially in the co main and main event. We just saw Delaney hush that notion and believe me we all know The Shooter is more than ready to do the same. Roscoe Robinson is the metering stick as a champion, the numbers show it, hate it or love it. I see him retaining personally because although Kelly has grown in the cage, so has the champion.

 

[Once at cageside, Roscoe stands tall, staring at the door leading into the battlefield. A camera comes in for a closer look, catching the attention of “The Shooter” as he turns to it and leans in for a closeup, yelling into it in unison with the lyrics of the ongoing music.]

 

ROSCOE ROBINSON

Livin' like we tryna die tonight! Glock .40 sound like dynamite!

 

[Pulling his head away from the camera, Roscoe pounds his fists together before turning to the cage and running up the steps. Bursting into the cage, Roscoe runs across the mat and leaps to pull himself on top of the cage. Sitting on it momentarily, he removes the UGP Cruiserweight Championship from his waist, raising it above his head. Dropping down to the mat, he hands the championship to the referee before removing his shirt and tossing it over the cage and out into the crowd.]

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Texas Comative Sports Program, 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 Willie Green. AND NOW, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! The following contest is scheduled for five rounds and it is for the Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Championship! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 4-1. He stands 6’2”, and weighing in at 225 pounds. He is from Dublin, Ireland, fighting out of The ScrapYard MMA, presenting the number one ranked contender in the Cruiserweight Division, Ardan “The Angel” Kelly!

 

[Ardan Kelly is beating himself up in the corner before the fight begins, smacking himself in the face, body and legs to get ready for his scrap.]

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 11-2. He stands 6’1”, and weighing in at 215 pounds. He is from Atlanta, Georgia, fighting out of Real Killas MMA, he is the reigning, defending, undisputed Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Champion of the World, presenting “The Shooter” Roscoe Robinson!

 

[Roscoe Robinson throws both arms straight into the air, his index and middle fingers extended as if his hands were guns. Dropping his arms down, he bounces back and forth, smacking himself in the face, body and legs to get ready for the fight awaiting him.]

 

JASON JACKSON

I’m not going to lie. I used to hate this dude, man. However, he has earned my respect and I won’t lie… I’ve become a fan. I enjoy watching him fight and MMA is in good hands with this man right here leading the pack. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

I’ve loved him ever since he killed Fisk off and did it again. People question his ways but facts are he’s been a representative of how it’s done as far as inside the cage is concerned.

 

CARRICK PRICE

I think we’re ready to go, lads. Lets fucking get it.

OG_RD1.png

[Robinson and Kelly move forward as the bell signals the beginning of the fight! Kelly keeps his distance in the early going of this fight not wanting to engage Robinson in a stand up fight. Roscoe decides to push the pace as he steps in quickly and throws a big right hand directly into the side of Ardan’s face, following up with a solid middle kick that connects right below the ribs. Kelly winces in pain as Robinson continues to push the pace, the two of them exchanging wild blows. Robinson gets cocky out there, taunting Kelly before drawing back for a knockout blow. Before Roscoe can swing, Ardan connects with a solid jab to the jaw, creating a gap in Robinson’s offence as he goes low and grabs The Shooter’s right leg before flipping him onto his back with a solid takedown!]

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Well done by Ardan! He knew where Roscoe was trying to take it, hard no.

 

CARRICK PRICE

That’s a good start for The Angel. But look how damn quick roscoe is to get him trapped in his guard.

 

JASON JACKSON

Nice job capitalizing on that takedown. He does NOT want to stand toe to toe with ‘Scoe. Real talk. 

 

[Ardan lands in side control and Roscoe immediately scrambles to trap Ardan in his guard. It takes a bit of a struggle, but he finally gets out of the position and closes his guard. Before Ardan can work from the guard, Roscoe pushes his hip up, taking Kelly off guard as he flips him into full mount! He looks to immediately work to get out of the mount, but The Shooter moves to side control to keep the better position on the ground. Roscoe tries to move back to full mount but The Angel blocks the transition, attempting to counter by closing his guard around him. Robinson manages to  stay out of his guard, and after a little more jockeying manages to get back to full mount. Roscoe sits up as he tries to start dropping bombs, but The Angel continues to keep his body moving on the ground, not allowing Roscoe to get a stable base to start throwing those shots. Roscoe over commits to the ground and pound attempt, and Ardan manages to get his leg free and transition back to half guard. Robinson tries to pass but Kelly instead transitions back to full guard. Roscoe is unable to escape it, nothing much else happening on the ground before Willie Green stands them up.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Roscoe doing a nice job to not let Ardan have anything easily and knowing the referees in this company, all he had to do was buy some time and they’d stand things back up. Just like Willie Green did.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

The ol stall and ball. Works every time. Kelly isn’t going to have the advantage there easy. He’s going to have to put more into that. We all know Roscoe trains for those moments too.

 

JASON JACKSON

You see though? Ardan is a pure grappler and the champ still swept him and ended up in the dominant position. Don’t sell Robinson’s ground game short. I’m telling you. 

 

[Both fighters measure each other again before Robinson looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Ardan Kelly's punches. He takes one to the chest but sidesteps the headshot before throwing a great combination of his own. Ardan tries to take things back to the ground as he goes for that right leg again, but this time The Shooter keeps his balance and pushes him away. Getting the distance, he fires off several solid leg kicks, Ardan wincing at the impact. Ardan closes this time to shorten the range, the two men once again exchanging blows. Roscoe gets the upper hand as he throws an uppercut followed by a hard jab, but Kelly gets his arms up in time to block the shots. However, with his guard up Roscoe goes low again with a furious low kick, but Ardan checks it with perfect timing! Ardan throws a solid combination as Roscoe is a little off balance, but The Shooter is able to avoid any serious damage. He goes for another low kick but once again it's checked by Kelly. Kelly goes to throw one of his own but Roscoe checks it as well! He pushes Kelly back as he recovers his breath, clearly from the manic pace he has set so far, but it doesn’t stop him from going low one more time, this time connecting dead on with the leg kick, the shot echoing. Ardan goes to jump back as Roscoe steps forward and throws a volatile head kick, the shot only grazing his face before The Shooter follows up with a devastating right hook to the face! Roscoe extends both arms in front of him, motioning his hands as if he were pointing two guns directly at his opponent. Ardan stumbles back as Robinson pulls the imaginary triggers to fire off shots and goes to follow up, but Willie Green steps in as the round is over! Both men head back to their corners as a bruise is seen below Kelly’s right eye.]

 

CARRICK PRICE

Big right hook but Shooter needs to be careful. I love the swagger but for the most part Ardan was able to defend those strikes this round and that pace that Roscoe was pushing isn’t something that could be maintained for five full rounds. Still think he took it, but I’m sure his corner will be trying to reel him in just a little bit.

 

JASON JACKSON

I love it. I won’t lie. I used to do the same shit and it mentally starts to wear down your opponent when you taunt them like that while landing bombs like he is doing here. The mid games work. You just can’t get caught up in it.I think that round was 10-9 Robinson though. 

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

Round for Shooter. I think the distance and a groggy opponent allowed that to play perfect but he might not want to do that until that last finishing shot to secure his defense. Never know what kind of animal he could awaken in Kelly. The round was more effective and advantageous for Robinson.

OG_RD2.png

[Round two starts as the two men circle each other, sizing each other up. Throwing the hand guns up once more, Roscoe fires off even more imaginary bullets at Ardan’s head before lowering his arms in a defensive manner.  Roscoe steps in as Ardan shoots for a double leg takedown, but he sees it coming and blasts him with a flying knee as he comes in! The knee wrecks him as Kelly crashes to the mat unconscious. Not even following up with more attacks, Roscoe stands over Ardan pointing down to his chest as if holding a pistol. Pulling the imaginary trigger over and over, Roscoe unloads the entire clip. Willie Green immediately calls for the bell to end the fight as Roscoe runs toward the cage, leaping up and pulling himself over the top with a leg hanging over each side, pounding his chest with his right hand before throwing both arms up in celebration.]

​

JASON JACKSON

OH MY LAAAAAAAWD. Oooooooooh shit. Someone calllll the coroner. That boy is deceased. I told you. Under two rounds. 

 

CARRICK PRICE

Welp, don’t need to reel a lad in when he can turn your lights out with a knee like that. Perfectly timed. Perfectly executed. Has to be the knock out of the night. Congrats, champ. That’s another defense to your name.

 

TOUSSAINT HARPER

He ran into that like wood to chipper!! Baptism, aisle main event cage!!! THE BUSINESS HAS BEEN GIVEN LADIES AND GENTLEMAN!! DEAR MERCY!!

 

[The crowd explodes into cheers and Robinson is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration over by the fence. Doctors tend to Kelly for a while before eventually helping him up to his feet. After the medical staff finally finish their work, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]

 

MIKE DEMPSEY

Ladies and gentlemen, referee Willie Green has called for a stop in this fight at twenty-two seconds in the second round, for your winner by knockout, AND STILL the undisputed Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Champion of the World, “The Shooter” Roscoe Robinson!

 

[The crowd burst into cheers once again as Robinson 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: Roscoe Robinson by KO (Knee) at 0:22 Round 2

 

Statistics: Roscoe Robinson

Punches 11/19 (58%)

Kicks 7/9 (78%)

Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)

Takedowns 0/0 (0%)

GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)

Submissions 0/0 (0%)

Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)

Time on the ground 105 s

 

Statistics: Ardan Kelly

Punches 3/8 (38%)

Kicks 0/1 (0%)

Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)

Takedowns 1/2 (50%)

GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)

Submissions 0/0 (0%)

Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)

Time on the ground 105 s

bottom of page