STATE FARM ARENA
ATLANTA, GEORGIA
JULY 3, 2021
[The opening montage comes to a close and the feed transitions inside the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. The sold out crowd of 20,000 fans pack the building, where many have immersed themselves into the pandemonium and roar out with deafening cheers. With the uncertainty of victory or defeat looming, the aura is both intoxicating and tense.]
[The main stage, where the fighters scheduled tonight grace their presence, is littered with carnage and destruction. A heavy fog sits stale, scaffolding strung in multiple directions, and the overall structure glowing red with fire, ash, and embers; something no fighter will soon forget.]
[The toll on both fan and fighter is enormous. The stage of a bloody war is set. The conquerors envision nothing but execution towards success, while the meek is flooded with doubt. Down in the trenches, Bodie Sullivan and Hall of Famer Jason Jackson stand in attention to officially kick off the night.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Ladies and gentlemen, we are live here in Atlanta, Georgia inside the State Farm Arena for UGP 27! Bodie Sullivan here and standing next to me is the man, the myth, the legend Jason Jackson! JJ, tonight is the Night of the Cruiserweights as we kickoff the quarterfinals round of the Cruiserweight Championship Contender Grand Prix, aka the Triple C GP. We’ve got an incredible lineup dedicated to the 225-ers, PLUS, we have an Openweight Bout Main Event featuring our Heavyweight and Cruiserweight Champions. America will be celebrating Independence Day tomorrow, but we’re surely gonna see some fireworks tonight!
JASON JACKSON
Fireworks, Cannons, Artillery... We are going to get it all. I’m excited. This card is stacked from top to bottom with some stellar fights. It’s a, for lack of better term, “Light-Heavyweight Extravaganza” Bodie. We’ve got the Triple C, We’ve got the Shooter VS Pluggz… This card is by far one of the hottest cards of the summer and it will be answering a lot of questions for us analysts and fight fans and shaking up the rankings a bit. Happy Independence Day, Fight Fans! Buckle up and get ready for some action.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Before we talk about the monumental main event, let’s run down the undercard. Opening up the night we have Ardan Kelly taking on Rubio Ochoa III. Kelly has the cage experience in his favor, no doubt about it, but Ochoa is a bit of a wild card. He’s 1-1 with a performance bonus in his debut victory and then a submission loss in his most recent fight against Reggie James. So we don’t really know what to expect. It’s a classic clash of styles, striker versus grappler. Can Kelly use his BJJ to score the win, or can Ochoa keep the fight standing and win with his striking?
JASON JACKSON
I can tell you what to expect. Expect to see these young up and comers putting on a show, win or lose. This is a matchup that can inch one of them further up the rankings ladder, and onward toward a championship opportunity. I think both guys are going to come out laser focused, hungry, and they are going to put on a show to start off this tremendous card with a bang.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Staying on track with ScrapYard fighters, we got Reggie James taking on another highly skilled grappler, former Everest Heavyweight Champion Wayland Hughes Jr. I feel like this one will be a chess match and a test to see who can outsmart the other.
JASON JACKSON
Another 9th World VS ScrapYard matchup, and another one sure to be a thrill to watch. We saw Reggie James pull off TWO slick Omoplata victories in his time here with UGP. One against Rubio Ochoa, and the other against another man fighting here tonight, Lovelie Saint-Cyr. James is 3-0, and he’s shown his ability to dominate on the ground in the short time he’s been here. He’s taking on a massive test though in WayHu who was the Inaugural Heavyweight Champion in Everest. He eventually lost his title to Sergey Loktev at Everest // Phoenix by devastating knockout in the fifth round of an all out war in a fight of the night effort. He’s decided to make the jump to Union, and we’re going to see here tonight if he can bounce back from suffering a knockout loss, and hang with the elevated skill level that UGP brings.
BODIE SULLIVAN
From there we move on to José Meléndez taking on former Everest Welterweight Champion Lovelie Saint-Cyr. I’m hyped to see this one because you know these guys are gonna throw down. Two stout, compact fighters who have high motors. This could very well steal the show.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, this one has the potential for fight of the night written all over it. Both men pride themselves on their gas tank and being able to go into deep water every fight if they need to. They set an incredible pace from start to finish, and if you look at these fella’s rosters on the UGP website, you’ll see that while neither of them really claim to be grapplers… both of them have had some submission victories. I think they are more well rounded than they give themselves credit for, and I think this fight has the ability to go everywhere. Striking, grappling, clinch fighting… It’s going to be like a whirlwind and I’m on the edge of my seat in anticipation.
BODIE SULLIVAN
In the Co-Main Event we have number one ranked Michael Santos taking on the G2 Grand Champion Gaige Lattimore. This is another one that pits two heavy hitters together that are capable of ending a fight out of nowhere.
JASON JACKSON
oOoOoOOOH BOY! This is a BANGER son. Both of these guys have one punch KO power, both of these guys have a solid chin as well. They like to go out there and stand toe to toe and trade and I think the fans are going to get a show. You wanted fireworks? Here’s your fireworks. I’m a big fan of Lights Out, and I’ve been super impressed by Santos as well. This will be two exciting fighters putting on a barnburner for the fans. I’m happy to see Gauge make the jump to UGP and I know Santos is going to welcome him with a BANG!
BODIE SULLIVAN
Then finally we get to the Main Event of the evening. Heavyweight Champion Kennard Rozier puts his unbeaten streak on the line as he takes on Cruiserweight Champion Roscoe Robinson. This is quite possibly the biggest non-title fight we will ever see in mixed martial arts. Two of the very best in their division duke it out for supremacy and bragging rights in the pound for pound discussion.
JASON JACKSON
This is a huge fight. Bodie, I know we are told to hype the fans up but believe me when I say this… I legitimately have goosebumps for this fight. I’ve said it a hundred times now, I’ve been in there with Roscoe. I know what he’s capable of. I hit him with some shots that would’ve crumpled anyone else, and he kept coming. I know Pluggz hits hard, but Bodie… so do I. We can look at the highlight reel I left behind in my career. Believe me when I tell you that it’s going to take the perfect shot to put Roscoe down, and there have only been two people to do it in his entire career. Meanwhile, Rozier has never been knocked out. He’s never been finished. I know the amount of weight that carries because I never got knocked out my entire career. Not one single time. I got submitted a few times, but never KO’d and it was something I went into every fight thinking about. I never wanted it to happen. I know Kennard, whether he wants to admit it or not, has that in the back of his mind as well. I think this fight can end one way or another with one single solid shot. What Rozier needs to be wary about though, is Roscoe’s ability to adjust and take the fight to the ground and change the game plan. He did it to me. He realized he wasn’t going to be able to knock me out, so he choked me out. He has the experience to finish this fight anywhere it goes, and Rozier has the RAW POWER to knock your lights out if he lands cleanly. It’s really a toss up.
BODIE SULLIVAN
And with that, let’s switch gears and turn the action over to our very own hype man, Mike Dempsey!
JASON JACKSON
Take it away Mike.
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, we are live exclusively on the Battleground Network here at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia for UGP 27! And now, this opening contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Championship Contender Grand Prix. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Muay Thai Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 1-1. He stands 6’2”, and weighing in at 190 pounds. He is from Pearl City, Hawaii, presenting the number eight ranked Cruiserweight Contender in the World, “Rhoudini” Rubio Ochoa III!
[Rubio Ochoa III 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.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
First man up tonight is a guy who doesn’t have a lot of experience on the big stage. That could either be an advantage or drawback, and that’s all depending on how well Rubio Ochoa has prepared himself for this fight. His last outing was a losing effort against Reggie James at UGP 22, a very similar style fighter who trains in the same camp as Ardan Kelly. Even if he’s improved drastically on his skills and fight IQ, the fact that he comes in at a whopping thirty-five pounds under the two hundred twenty-five pound Cruiserweight limit, that’s proof that he’s got a helluva hill to climb.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, I gotta say, he’s the clear underdog here. He’s at a deficit for size and experience and honestly Bodie, I’m not really sure why he’s not fighting at Middleweight. Either way, here we are, and it appears we have a classic Striker VS Grappler matchup to kick off the night. I’m interested to see how it goes. Rubio is 1-1 and like you stated, he recently lost to Reggie, who indeed is a teammate of Ardan Kelly. The two train closely together and they are known BJJ savages. Rubio is a pure striker, and that’s also pretty surprising to me, given that he trains at 9th World with some pretty skilled grapplers. I think if Ochoa can keep the fight on the feet though, he’ll show us the type of world class striking his coach, Pluggz Rozier, is known for and has surely instilled in him.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 5-3. He stands 6’2””, and weighing in at 225 pounds. He is from Dublin, Ireland, fighting out of The ScrapYard MMA, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Title Challenger and the number three ranked Cruiserweight Contender in the World, Ardan “The Angel” Kelly!
[Ardan Kelly glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Quick turnaround for the Dublin native Ardan Kelly tonight. He’s coming off a fresh loss at Boss Fight XXV against José Meléndez and is looking to jump right back in the win column. We’ve seen what this man is capable of with his scary good submissions, and now he’s got a chip on his shoulder. I fully expect him to come out and execute a precise game plan.
JASON JACKSON
No doubt about it, Ardan is going to come out here like a pissed off Angus Bull and try to dump Ochoa to the mat early and submit him as quickly as possible. I can’t see any other game plan here. That may end up costing him though, especially if he lets that loss, and that chip on his shoulder dictate the way this fight goes. He needs to keep a level head and be a tactician here and if he does that? He walks away with a win and possibly submission of the night.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Referee Jordan Ripley is in charge of our opening contest. And here we go!
JASON JACKSON
Let’s get it, dude. Round one, FIGHT.
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[The fight gets underway and both men close the distance. Ochoa moves forward looking for some action and wraps Kelly up with double overhooks. The two jockey for position and Ochoa sees an opening and lands a straight right hand that cuts Kelly on the cheek. Ochoa shuffles to the side to try to get Kelly off balance and launches an uppercut. Kelly blocks the strike and feels enough separation in the clinch to drop down and grab a leg. Ochoa tries to push off and hop on one foot to stay upright, but Kelly drives forward and the two hit the mat with violent force.]
JASON JACKSON
Aaaaand there it is, Bodie. I called that. Straight to the mat.
BODIE SULLIVAN
That’s the mind of a genius, ladies and gentlemen. I think Ochoa knew what was coming, but he couldn’t stop the Dublin freight train.
JASON JACKSON
Kelly seems to have been sliced open from that right straight. The cut is on his cheek though, so it’s not any real immediate danger. He will need to protect it though.
[Both men begin scrambling for position and Ochoa ends up getting a half guard from the bottom. Kelly tries to get to side mount but Ochoa wraps his leg around Kelly’s leg and prevents him from moving then quickly throws both legs up for a triangle! Ardan Kelly reacts swiftly and postures up to break the submission, then jumps out of Ochoa’s guard to get the full mount! Ochoa tries to turn away and scramble out, but Kelly takes his back and locks up a rear naked choke!]
JASON JACKSON
Great work on the ground by both of these fi— KELLY HAS THAT CHOKE SUNK IN DEEP! Out of nowhere! This man is DANGEROUS on the ground.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Oooh! This could be folks! Kelly is under the chin!
[You can see the pain reflected in Ochoa’s eyes as Kelly begins to squeeze tighter. Ochoa hand fights with Kelly and manages to pry an arm loose to get just enough separation to slip out and get back to his feet! Kelly jolts up and both fighters continue the fight on their feet to the sound of the roaring crowd. Ochoa doesn’t get very far as Kelly almost immediately shoots for a double leg takedown! Ochoa is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Kelly into his guard. The two jockey for position for quite a while and do just enough to keep active. Eventually the two look to tire and stall out, forcing referee Jordan Ripley to stand them up due to a lack of activity. Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Ardan Kelly scores the takedown but can’t get anything else out of it. Good defense from Ochoa.
JASON JACKSON
Good call here in my opinion. Excellent takedown but Ardan wasn’t able to make much out of it. Smart move by Ochoa to put the clamps on and lock him down to get the fight stood back up.
[Reaching the halfway point in the first round, both fighters circle to the center of the cage to refocus on their strategy. Kelly fakes a punch to bait Ochoa in and shoots a takedown! Ochoa bites on the feint and gets taken back down. Kelly is in open guard over Ochoa as he pummels for control. Ochoa does what he can to keep Kelly stationed, but he leaves his legs free and Kelly traps him in a heel hook!]
JASON JACKSON
NASTY HEEL HOOK ATTEMPT FROM KELLY! Fuck brah! That ankle looks like it’s gonna break. He needs to tap!
[Kelly wrenches back with everything he has and you can clearly see the pain reflected in Ochoa’s eyes! Ochoa’s ankle is nearly turned completely around and it’s an unsightly scene, drawing audible groans from the audience. Ochoa cannot withstand the pain for very long and has to tap!]
BODIE SULLIVAN
That’ll do it! Rubio Ochoa could not endure the pain any longer and Ardan Kelly made sure he was going nowhere. I just hope there’s no significant damage to that ankle!
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, that looked pretty bad. He had his shit torqued almost completely around like that chick’s head in the Exorcist. I hope he’s okay.
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Kelly nonchalantly struts back to his corner. Doctors file in and tend to Ochoa to ensure there are no significant injuries. Ochoa is eventually assisted to his feet and once the medical staff exit the octagon, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, referee Jordan Ripley has called for a stop in this fight at two minutes fifty-one seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by submission, Arden “The Angel” Kelly!
[The crowd cheers once again as Kelly 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: Ardan Kelly by Submission (Leg Lock) at 2:51 Round 1
Statistics: Ardan Kelly
Punches 0/0 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 3/3 (100%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 2/2 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 101 s
Statistics: Rubio Ochoa III
Punches 1/2 (50%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 101 s
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Championship Contender Grand Prix. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 4-1. He stands 5’11”, and weighing in at 225 pounds. He is from Queens, New York, fighting out of the 9th World Performance Institute, presenting the former Everest MMA Heavyweight Champion and the number five ranked Cruiserweight Contender in the World, “Studded” Wayland Hughes Jr.!
[Wayland Hughes Jr. keeps his head down and shifts back and forth in his corner. Hughes’ poker face is stone cold, not to give the slightest tell to his opponent, but his body language is just slightly off.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Tonight we have the Union GP debut of another highly anticipated Everest MMA graduate, Wayland Hughes Jr. The former Everest Heavyweight Champion is a very well rounded fighter and he’s proven that he’s comfortable wherever the fight gears toward. He’s got some heavy hands and with three of his four victories coming by way of submission, he’s got what it takes on the ground. This guy will be a great challenge for Reggie James tonight.
JASON JACKSON
Well rounded for sure. I think that is a quality of a lot of the 9th world fighters though.Hughes is not afraid to stand and throw hands, but if an opening presents itself, he will gladly capitalize on it. His fight IQ is outstanding, and I’m happy to see him coming up to the big show to get some work in. I think Reggie James is a great first obstacle to overcome, and I’m eager to see how he does.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grappler holding a perfect professional mixed martial arts record of 3-0. He stands 5’11”, and weighing in at 220 pounds. He is from Phoenix, Arizona, fighting out of The ScrapYard MMA, presenting the number four ranked Cruiserweight Contender in the World, “Rocka” Reggie James!
[James steps out from his corner and the arena seems about to burst! There’s little doubt that the crowd is behind him, which feeds him with even more confidence. He gives off a ferocious staredown toward the former Everest Champion while referee Willie Green recites the rules to both fighters.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
The unbeaten ScrapYard prospect has done a complete one-eighty in his last two fights. After securing a somewhat controversial unanimous decision win over Yusnuel Gamboa, Reggie came back and silenced those doubters with a big first round submission win over Lovelie Saint-Cyr. Could we be seeing another former Everest Champion fall victim to Rocka here tonight?
JASON JACKSON
We could indeed. Reggie is impressive as hell, uce. He’s a “submission technician.” A wizard. He didn’t just pull off any ol’ random submission. He whipped out an omoplata in the first round to put a former Everest Champion away. That is impressive to me. LSC was as much of a test for Reggie James, and Reggie James was for LSC. It was James though, who was able to keep his cool and do the damn thing. Let’s see if he can pull another rabbit out of his hat tonight.
BODIE SULLIVAN
And now both fighters are set in their corners. Our referee in charge, Willie Green, checks off with each man one last time and calls for the bell!
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ROUND ONE
=========================================
[Reggie James and Wayland Hughes Jr. touch gloves in the center to get this fight started. Both fighters circle around and James tries some trickery with a rolling kneebar! Hughes uses his momentum to continue rolling and narrowly slips out. As the two scramble back to their feet, James shoots a single leg. Hughes pushes off and manages to kick his leg free, and counters with a shattering straight left hand that stuns James long enough for Hughes to gain some distance and regroup.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Woah, Reggie James tried to catch Wayland Hughes napping but ended up costing a big left hand right on the button.
JASON JACKSON
That’s the plus side of being well rounded like that. Wayland can grapple, sure, but he also has those hammers. James found that out the hard way just there.
[James and Hughes Jr. are cautious with their approach as they circle around the center of the cage. Hughes changes levels and catches James off guard with a textbook single leg. The two scramble on the ground for position and James creates some space to scramble back to his feet. Hughes quickly follows and both fighters continue the fight on their feet. James launches a stiff jab but Hughes ducks it. Reggie then shoots for a double leg takedown and hits it! Hughes is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull James into his guard.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
It’s clear Reggie James is wanting to take this fight to the ground early. Even willing to eat some big shots to get the takedown. Gotta be careful with a guy like Hughes who can turn your lights out in an instant.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, but the pace of this fight though… man. Crazy! You can tell that these are two men who had great camps, came in ready to fight, and they are showing the world why they deserved to be here in this tournament.
[Reggie James is in closed guard over Hughes and tries to wiggle free, but Hughes rolls and reverses the position to get the top full mount! Reggie struggles to improve his position several times, but every time Hughes manages to keep good control and remain in full mount. Hughes starts to lose his grip as Reggie continues to scramble, so he drops a couple of big elbows against James' ribs to regain control. James winces but continues to work and soon frees a leg to get in half guard.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
No quit in James. He’s showing a lot of toughness out there working to improve his position.
JASON JACKSON
Move or die, Bodie. It’s something I’ve told every one of my students since the day I first started teaching, and it’s something my very first coach instilled in me from day one as well. When you stall out in open water then you are shark bait, brah. Do whatever you can to change your position and regain control.
[Hughes tries to reposition back to full mount, but an opening allows James to roll and get to a top half guard over Hughes and the crowd cheers him on! Reggie looks a bit gassed and despite the referee’s repeated instructions, he cannot keep the action alive and stalls out. At this point the official decides to stand the fighters up since there was not much action on the ground.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Nothing doing here. Reggie James is controlling the fight with the takedowns, but if he doesn’t start capitalizing on them, he’s not gonna get too far ahead on the scorecards.
JASON JACKSON
Good standup there by the ref. I agree with this one. Looks like they’ve been making better calls lately. Big shout out to them. As for the takedowns, sure they score points, but like you were saying more eloquently... they can also get you screwed over on a judge’s scorecard if the takedowns don’t lead to something productive. Plain and simple.
[Back on their feet, Wayland circles around Reggie and pushes off on him to seemingly collect his breath. Hughes tries pushing off once more, but James grabs him by the waist and takes the fight to the ground with a solid body lock takedown. James is in open guard over Hughes. He fakes a move and then goes for a kneebar! Hughes nearly gets caught but after a few kicks, he manages to slip free and get back to his feet. James springs up as well and the two circle around to the center of the cage.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Oooh, Wayland Hughes almost got caught there. Smart strategy for Reggie to go for the submissions early. You don’t really think about it, but it’s a lot harder to escape those submissions when you don’t have a good sweat going to help slip free. Goes to show how skilled Hughes is on the ground.
JASON JACKSON
It does indeed. I love how well rounded Hughes is, and I love the tenacity of Reggie James and the way that he relentlessly looks to finish the fight with a submission. He’s always on the attack and looking 4-5 moves ahead for a slick way to end the fight early. Which, like you stated, is much easier when you aren’t slick with sweat in the later rounds.
[James goes with a looping right hand while Hughes jumps back and jabs. James doesn’t land any of his strikes, but does enough to get Hughes off balance to drag him down with a double leg. The impact of the takedown looks like it knocked the wind out of Hughes for a moment as he winces in pain. Reggie keeps the pressure on him and subtly tries restricting Hughes’ breathing with his hands covering the mouth and nose. James now tries to escape from the closed guard and ends up giving enough separation to roll and get to half guard over James! The two jockey for control while Hughes manages to free his leg and quickly move to side mount. From here the two jockey back and forth and keep the action alive enough to keep the referee out from interfering until the buzzer.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Very close round there. It’s a toss up to me. James scored several takedowns, but couldn’t get anything out of it once the two were on the ground. It’ll be interesting to see how the judges score it, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they ended up giving this one to Hughes, who managed to do more in the striking department.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, I think significant strikes definitely go to Waylan. James would get some points for his takedowns but I don’t think it would be enough to give him the edge. I’m gonna go 10-9 Hughes.
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ROUND TWO
=========================================
[The second round is underway and both fighters look to have plenty left in the tank. Reggie James closes in and catches Wayland Hughes’ far ankle and trips him to the mat with a sweep single. Hughes hits the mat hard and grasps at his side. Hughes manages to close his guard and keep James from initiating any offense to the point where the referee steps in to separate the two and stands them back up. No sooner than they resume standing, James fires in with a single leg, however this time Hughes was ready for it and sprawls back. Reggie doesn’t give up though as he transitions his grip from the leg to the waist and squeezes tight to fold Hughes over with a body lock takedown.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
I gotta tell ya, I don’t think there is anyone better at the takedown than Reggie James in the Cruiserweight Division. He imposes his will and never lets up. If one door closes, he sees another one open and that’s where he gets ya. But one thing I couldn’t help notice is that Hughes has been grasping at his side. I don’t know if he’s got a rib injury or what, but that could be a factor if James can target the body.
JASON JACKSON
He’s relentless. That’s what? 5...6 takedowns already. If he could get his transitions moving and get some dominant positioning, he could really do some damage. I was just about to say, Hughes’ ribas are clearly hurt… if that were me? I’d transition to side control and start throwing some knees and elbows. Then when he shrimps up? Look for a d’arce or anaconda choke.
[On the ground, James is in open guard and tries to improve his position, but ends up eating a couple of stinging punches to the rib cage. This doesn’t deter him though, as he keeps moving and ends up jumping to side mount. Hughes jostles around to improve his position but leaves himself open for James to go for an armbar! Wayland reacts swiftly and manages to slip free and scramble his way to side mount over James to gain a better position in the process. James gets squirrely on the bottom and after a brief struggle he creates some space and scrambles back to his feet. Hughes follows him up and both fighters continue the fight on their feet.]
JASON JACKSON
[whistles] That was another close one.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Jason, I don’t know how many more times Hughes can slip those subs man. It’s impressive, but you kinda get the sense that he needs to keep himself out of those situations or it’s gonna come back to bite him.
JASON JACKSON
Think of the energy he’s expending, getting dumped to the ground over and over and having to literally tread water and survive while a BJJ shark circles his wounded body. He’s gotta think, and act fast. It’s gonna start with the takedown defense. Stop getting dumped on your head, uce.
[The pace seems to slow down a bit after the constant grappling battle as the two study each other’s movements. James moves backwards, trying to bait Hughes in but Hughes tries to play some mind games and draw him in with some flagrant taunts. James steps in with a few jabs but Hughes counters with a solid combo and finishes it with a stunning hook. James retaliates with a double leg and brings the fight back down to the mat.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
This has been the theme throughout the fight. Wayland lands a couple strikes, James gets the takedown, and it’s a stalemate from there. It’s not pretty, but Wayland Hughes could very well win this fight with this game plan, depending on how the judges look at the takedown.
JASON JACKSON
I meeeean, you never know. At this point, if I were judging this fight, I’d have to start considering the effects of the takedowns and the submission attempts. I mean, Wayland is clearly favoring his ribs as the result of a takedown. That in my book sways me to go more 10-9 James on this round. While it’s been a stalemate a few times, Reggie has gone for more submission attempts, and quite frankly… WayHu can’t stop the takedown. Point blank, period.
[On the ground, both fighters seem to stall out and catch their breath until Hughes jolts with a roll and reverses to a half guard over James. Both fighters pummel back and forth for position and James tries to lock in an armbar from the bottom! The crowd bursts with excitement as Reggie tries to bridge back, but Wayland struggles and slips free. Reggie James still has a hold of his arm and rolls to set up a bicep slicer! Hughes gets rolled up tight and immediately is tapping from the pain!]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Oh my god! What just happened?! That’s the world class grappling Reggie James has continued to show! Just as I mentioned, James sees one door close with the armbar, then sees another one open with the Bicep Slicer. What an incredible sequence for James!
JASON JACKSON
Beautiful transition to the Bicep Slicer. Give this man his Black Belt. CARRICK! Give this man his black belt. Smooth. His nickname should be “ 2 smoove” cause jeeeeesus chriiiist. ROund of applause for Reggie James who moves on to the Semi-Finals of the Triple C GP.
[The crowd explodes into cheers as Reggie James races around the perimeter of the octagon in celebration. Doctors file in and tend to Hughes to ensure there is no significant damage. Once the medical professionals finish their work and exit the cage, 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 nineteen seconds in the second round, declaring your winner by submission, “Rocka” Reggie James!
[The crowd cheers once again as James 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: Reggie James by Submission (Bicep Slicer) at 3:19 Round 2
Statistics: Reggie James
Punches 0/4 (0%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/2 (0%)
Takedowns 6/8 (75%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 4/4 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 266 s
Statistics: Wayland Hughes Jr.
Punches 8/9 (89%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 1/1 (100%)
GnP strikes 4/5 (80%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 266 s
[The camera cuts cageside where Middleweight #1 contender Zion Momo’a can be seen with UGP reporter Dylan Carter. Zion is all smiles and dressed to the nines, clearly enjoying a great night of fights in Atlanta. Dylan raises her microphone to her lips and looks into the nearby camera as she opens.]
DYLAN CARTER
Welcome back fight fans! We’re a few minutes away from seeing José Meléndez and Lovelie Saint-Cyr make the march out to the cage, but while we have a moment here, I had to pull this man here out of the crowd and get a minute of his time to address some things he promised to talk to us about on social media. Zion, how’s it going? Are you enjoying yourself here tonight?
[The crowd perks up as the interview is switched over to the large monitors suspended over the cage for the audience to see. Zion raises a fist in appreciation, which gets another loud cheer. Once the decibel levels are lowered again, and he can hear himself think, Zion raises his own microphone to speak.]
ZION MOMO’A
HotLANTA is jumping, Dylan. I’m loving my time that I’ve had here, and the fights tonight have been awesome as always. There’s nothing better than Union GP. We are THE bar when it comes to Mixed Martial Arts.THE Standard. Everyone else is just trying to measure up. But we’re not here to talk about how much I’ve enjoyed the ATL right? In the words of Ricky Ricardo. . . “I’ve got some splainin’ to do, baby.”
DYLAN CARTER
Indeed you do. So, it seems that you’ve decided to make the split from Real Killas? I think we all want the tea there. Were there issues within the camp? Have you found another camp? We have tons of questions.
ZION MOMO’A
Nah, no issues or anything like that. I just wanted to get a different look ahead of this fight with Decker. I went there to see what they were putting in the water, to be honest. I mean, Guilliman kept beating me, and I even struggled with Decker the first time we fought. There is no denying that Real Killas is a great gym, with great coaching and great people.The proof is in the results. I learned a lot there, and I’m thankful, but at the end of the day Travis Decker and Rob Guilliman have been there from day one. They are the OG Real Killas in Middleweight, and I feel like it’s a uh… conflict of interests of sorts for me to continue training so closely with two top ten middleweight fighters. I weighed it and I think it’s best for me to move elsewhere, away from training closely with two rivals in my weight class. I mean... we see each other daily and can scout each other at a whim, Dylan. There was the option for one of us to go to Vegas to train at Roscoe’s branch, but with his departure… I think the decision made is best for my career.
DYLAN CARTER
Understandable. I get the feeling you like being a free agent and moving around to different gyms and learning a rounded, complete, skill set. You’ve bounced around a bunch in your career, training with Lair, 36th Street, and Real Killas. What’s next? Are you going to be joining the Hit Squad with Roscoe and Spyda? I heard from some sources that you guys got close while you were at Real Killas together?
ZION MOMO’A
Yeah, to be honest, you hit the nail on the head with that. I do love training with everyone that I possibly can. I love learning, and evolving my game. It’s why I’ve gotten to where I am in my career and why I’ve been able to come back and beat the fighters who have previously beaten me. Well… sans Robert Guilliman, because I swear that man is not human. But nah, I’ve decided to stay in Los Angeles and go back to calling 36th Street my home. It’s owned and operated by my good friend Lucie Callaway, and she asked me to come back and help build a brand there and I couldn’t say no. Especially when she has no qualms with me cross training with my guys at Lair, or the homies over at HitSquad. I’m free to do as I please, you feel me? I think there’s a lot of Camp VS Camp beef in the game right now and I’m really just not with it man. I want to train and fight. If you’re a cool muhfucka and you wanna spar? Cool, hit my line. If you want to talk shit and be wack? I’m training homie. There’s a time and place for talking shit, you feel? Like a press conference, and for all you ignorant fools who don’t know what that is? It’s that one thing where we sit down at a big table, and your manager hands you crayons and a coloring book to keep you entertained until it starts, and then we talk about how I’m going to win the fight. But seriously dawg… I’m down all day to talk shit to your face, but twitter fingers get old. Anyway… Yeah. Next question?
DYLAN CARTER
Right now you’re 2 and 0 with Travis Decker, but it seems like that first fight really set the tone for your rivalry. At UGP 13, a lot of people felt like that fight should have gone to Decker, but the judges gave it to you instead. Do you feel like you were able to quiet some of those voices after Boss Fight XVI when you beat him cleanly with an uppercut?
[Zion thinks about his answer for a second, and gives Dylan a small shrug.]
ZION MOMO’A
Don’t you? No salt on Ripcord’s game, but in the first fight he took me down over and over. He didn’t want to stand up and trade. I’ll give it to him, his takedowns were on point and he grinded me down throughout that whole fight, but it was a war. It always is when I’m in there, because on the feet I’m a terror for anyone in this division whether they want to give me the props or not. Just look at the statistics yo. 4 fight of the night awards. 4 Performance of the night awards, most of those for highlight reel KOs. The only fights I’ve lost, outside of Aries Reed, were for a title, and I just came back for Aries’ ass and we haven’t heard from him since. Straight up Dylan, folks have been sleeping on me for a while, but I’m about to wake them up. Real talk homie. If Trav beats me then, we’ll…hey, big ups to him. He’s the champ for a reason, right? Kudos. Good job. But I promise you this… you’re going to have to knock me out or choke me unconscious, because I’m not going down without a FIGHT. I know Decker is in the building though. Hey Champ! Hey!
[Zion waves into the camera and points over at the section where Middleweight Champion Travis Decker is sitting.]
ZION MOMO’A
I hope you’re ready bro. I hope you are ready to give these fans a show!! You said you've been working on your standup and I’m excited to see it. Let’s not hug it out homie. Let’s throw bombs for these fans until someone drops. Congrats tho. You’re a champion bro. True underdog story. I respect the hustle. But at the end of the day you’re also a target, and you’re wearing my belt. At UGP 28, we settle this shit once and for all. You said you won the first one, and well… I definitively won the second. This trilogy fight is for all the marbles, so I hope you train your ass off, say your prayers, take your flintstone vitamins and I sincerely hope you bring the Ripcord, because I promise you that you’re going to meet the Buzzsaw.
[Zion turns back to look at Dylan Carter, and smirks.]
ZION MOMO’A
Are we good here?
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, the following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Championship Contender Grand Prix. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Shotokan Karate Striker holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 4-2. He stands 6’ even, and weighing in at 225 pounds. He is from Flint, Michigan by way of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, fighting out of the Hit Squad, presenting the former Everest MMA Welterweight Champion and the number six ranked Cruiserweight Contender in the World, Lovelie Saint-Cyr!
[Ferocious staredown by Saint-Cyr while Jordan Ripley recites the rules.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Lovelie Saint-Cyr is making his second appearance in Union GP, but his first as a member of the newly formed Hit Squad camp. You know we kept harping on the fact that he made such a huge leap in weight when he was promoted from Everest to Union. Going from 170 pounds to 225 pounds, we suspected it could slow him down and in his Union debut fight against Reggie James, I think we saw just that. He had no answers whatsoever, and did not look like the fighter we were mesmerized by in Everest. However, he’s got another training camp under his belt at this weight, so hopefully he’s tuned in and more adjusted to the added weight. I hate to say it but if he comes up short again here tonight, I think it’s time to seriously consider a drop down to 185.
JASON JACKSON
To be honest Bodie, it could’ve been nerves as well. Moving up is a pretty big deal. It was his first fight under the UGP banner and he had to contend with the added weight, and the added pressure. LSC has a tremendous camp and coaching staff behind him. He has all the tools needed to make the jump and make a run for a title here as well. He just needs to execute and shake the nerves and do what he’s trained for years to do. Win. Standing across from him is a real test though.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding a perfect professional mixed martial arts record of 4-0. He stands 5’9”, and weighing in at 225 pounds. He is from San Diego, California, presenting the number two ranked Cruiserweight Contender in the World, “Gas Tank” Jose Melendez!
[Jose Melendez looks very relaxed.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Another fighter with a quick turnaround, Jose Melendez has been on fire and is finally starting to get the recognition he deserves. That big main event win over a former title challenger truly put him in the title discussion, but tonight he’s gonna have to answer to a guy who’s backed into a corner. I absolutely love this match up, Jason. And the timing of it is just perfect.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, great matchmaking by the board here. I think the Triple C was a great idea in general, but some of these matchup we’ve gotten just in the first round? Sheeeeesh. This one is going to be a good ol’ slobberknocker though. Only one can move on, who is it going to be?
BODIE SULLIVAN
Your guess is as good as mine, but we are about to find out. We are all squared away and ready to go, as Referee Jordan Ripley will be calling the shots in this one.
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[Melendez and Saint-Cyr move forward and touch gloves as the bell signals the beginning of the fight. Without missing a beat, Saint-Cyr fires out of the gate and swings for the fences! Melendez backpedals fast to create space and avoid the hands, and afterwards Saint-Cyr can’t help himself but to lightheartedly taunt Jose to try and draw him back in. Saint-Cyr cuts off Melendez and throws a low kick, but switches targets mid swing and lands a superb body kick! Melendez eats the kick but it doesn’t slow him down, as the two engage in a wild exchange of punches! Jose Melendez is getting the best of the exchange before LSC launches a couple of jabs and then a big hook! Melendez blocks the jabs but the hook hits hard on the chin and Melendez stumbles to the mat!]
JASON JACKSON
FIREFIGHT OUT OF THE GATES HERE.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Aye yo, here we go! Melendez just got rocked there! Don’t blink or you might miss something!
[Saint-Cyr is standing while Melendez is on the ground on his back. LSC launches a kick to Melendez's thigh but gets checked. LSC quickly decides from here he doesn’t want to fight in this position so he steps back and motions for Jose to stand back up. Melendez gets back to his feet and it's back to the beginning. The two exchange wildly and Saint-Cyr connects with a few stinging punches. Saint-Cyr avoids a dangerous strike from Melendez and counters with a solid straight! Melendez is looking a bit dazed as he eats several leg kicks from LSC. Melendez tries to slow the pace of the fight down a bit and circles around his opponent. LSC keeps close and walks right into a fast combo from Melendez. Saint-Cyr retaliates with a bruising jab then follows it up with a quick right hook and Melendez has reasons to be worried.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Lovelie Saint-Cyr is putting the heat on Jose Melendez! This one could get ugly if Melendez doesn’t start firing back.
JASON JACKSON
He’s turning the heat up and putting the pressure on him. It’s pretty difficult sometimes to defend against a high pressure fighter that swarms you like that. Oop… Melendez slipped. Man down. Pimp in distress.
[A high kick from Jose Melendez misses terribly and he slips to the mat. Saint-Cyr cautiously closes in and launches a kick to Melendez's thigh that connects with a loud snap. LSC throws another kick but Melendez checks it this time and once again, Saint-Cyr decides to back off to allow Melendez to get back to his feet.]
JASON JACKSON
Such a gentleman, LSC. He just let him stand up and gave him a little bow. Cheeky.
[We reach the halfway point of the round and Melendez tries to force in some offense with a tremendous combo, but LSC blocks the shots with confidence and counters with a straight right. Both fighters circle back around to the center of the cage. LSC launches a furious leg kick that gets checked and Melendez counters with some punches that just narrowly miss as LSC shows off some great dodging skills. Melendez then works behind the jab to find his range, and a few of those strikes land clean. Melendez fires off another low kick that gets checked and Saint-Cyr walks him down with a perfect barrage of jabs and crosses!]
BODIE SULLIVAN
This is the Lovelie Saint-Cyr we’re used to seeing! He’s looking great out there right now and has got Melendez just grasping at straws.
JASON JACKSON
He’s a man on a mission. He wants to move on in this tournament and right now, Jose’s perfect record looks like it could be in jeopardy if he doesn’t make some adjustments.
[A body kick from LSC gets blocked, but his follow up hook hits Melendez right in the ribs. Coming down to the final seconds of the round, Saint-Cyr turns up the heat. He lands a few solid strikes and Melendez counters back with a few of his own. Saint-Cyr delivers a quick spinning back fist that connects right on the chin! Melendez is wobbed but manages to check a leg kick thrown his way and counter with a piercing jab that just grazes LSC’s cheek. The buzzer finally sounds and the referee steps in to stop the action and direct them back to their corners.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Whew, this was a wild round. I didn not expect to see Jose Melendez looking so lost out there. Lovelie Saint-Cyr came out with a flawless strategy and clearly took that round. Hell, I wouldn’t be surprised if it was a 10-8.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, you know I had it 10-9 for LSC coming down the stretch there, but that back fist rocked Jose’s shit, uce. He went , in the words of Big Sean, “Wobble-dy wobble-dy wa wobble wobble”. I think that combined with the aggression, control, and output makes it ALMOST a 10-8, but I gotta go 10-9 just because he didn’t drop.
=========================================
ROUND TWO
=========================================
[As the second round begins, you can clearly see that both fighters have plenty of energy left in themselves. An overhand right from Saint-Cyr crushes Melendez and yet somehow he remains on his feet. LSC begins working the body to soften Melendez up. Melendez throws a kick that gets checked and LSC circles away to create some distance. Melendez tries cutting him off and checks a leg kick from LSC. Both fighters then post up and trade shots! Melendez goes with a looping right hand while Saint-Cyr jumps back and jabs. Saint-Cyr takes the brunt of the exchange but it doesn’t seem to faze him as he continues with a few counter punches. LSC tries to step in and put the pressure on but Melendez catches him with a big uppercut that stuns him!]
JASON JACKSON
OoOh BIG counter uppercut by Jose! That was a well timed punch.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Jose Melendez has started to find some rhythm out there and is putting it to LSC.
[LSC tries to clear the cobwebs but Melendez rushes in with a brilliant combination that forces Saint-Cyr to try and better protect himself. Both fighters circle around to the center of the cage after the exchange and look to control their breathing. Saint-Cyr launches a solid middle kick that wrenches Melendez right in the sternum! Melendez steps away from Saint-Cyr and seems to be cooling down the fight a bit. LSC isn’t about that action though and fires off a leg kick that gets checked. Melendez counters with some nice punches but LSC dodges the attack.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Nice little back and forth exchange here and some creative evasiveness for both fighters.
JASON JACKSON
Looks like they are both taking a short little break here to make sure they don’t blow out their entire gas tank early. They still have another full round to go unless someone can come up with a crazy finish out of nowhere. But it’s been known to happen.
[Saint-Cyr and Melendez circle around the center of the cage before LSC comes in with a looping right hand while Melendez jumps back and jabs. A solid combination from Saint-Cyr connects and gets Melendez off balance. Both fighters try countering each other but neither one connects until LSC lands a calf kick that causes Melendez to back away and rethink his approach. Melendez tries pulling a rabbit out of the hat with a takedown attempt, but pulls up in time to avoid a flying knee from Saint-Cyr.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Ooooh that was a close one there. Melendez tried getting cute out there and it nearly cost him.
JASON JACKSON
YIKES! You know he could feel the air off of that whizz by his head and he nearly pissed his pants. That would’ve been a fight-ender for sure.
[Saint-Cyr is now measuring his range with some leg kicks that don't land but keeps Melendez honest and at bay. Saint-Cyr rushes in with a straight left that misses, but follows it up with some nasty hooks to the body. Melendez goes for a head kick that just glances off LSC but the follow up right hand surprises Saint-Cyr! With the clock ticking away and inching closer to the end, both fighters start to let loose. Saint-Cyr feints a side step and launches a liver kick that Melendez luckily blocks and counters with an inside leg kick that just misses. Right at the buzzer, Melendez launches a body shot but Saint-Cyr dodges and catches him with a hard cross. Jordan Ripley quickly wedges in and separates the fighters. Both fighters fist bump before heading back to their corners.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
This was a much more competitive round for Jose Melendez. I’m not sure if it was enough to take it, but he started flowing and getting some offense going. At best, we could be tied up on the scorecards, at worst Melendez could be looking at a three point deficit and needing a finish here in the final round to win. We could see some added urgency from Melendez in these final five minutes.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, that was a pretty close round. Hard to score indeed. Both did some damage, and we saw Melendez really start to find a rhythm and get into a groove but LSC man… He just keeps coming forward, and he’s so resilient. That aggression and control alone is most judge’s wet dream. Dreams? Either way… I gotta give it 10-9 LSC. Jose needs to come out here and finish in this round or it’s sayonara to that unblemished record.
=========================================
ROUND THREE
=========================================
[The final round commences and even though both fighters are battered and beaten, their mindset is dialed in. The two close the distance and circle around and Melendez works behind the jab. LSC counters with a few jabs of his own, but Melendez takes the edge in the exchange. Saint-Cyr throws a leg kick to maintain some distance, and even though he misses, it keeps Melendez away. That is, until Melendez sees an opening and rushes in, swinging for the fences! Saint-Cyr back pedals to keep some space and avoid getting tagged, and this strikes a nerve for Melendez. Saint-Cyr sees a brief opening and lands a big hook to the ribs and then follows up with a nice uppercut. Melendez gets rocked from the body shot but manages to dodge the uppercut.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
A lot of respect is being shown out there right now. Through ten plus minutes, they know what their opposition has in store and at this point in the fight, you don’t want to give your opponent an inch.
JASON JACKSON
It seems like Jose is getting a little frustrated that LSC is backpedalling now. He was pushing the pace for the first two rounds, and now that Jose has hit a stride, he’s changed up his game to make him chase. It’s smart on LSC’s behalf. Look at the counter hook that just landed to the body. That’s because Jose is getting frustrated and over committing.
[LSC launches an overhand right that hits nothing but air, and Melendez moves forward to close the distance and outboxes his opponent in a quick exchange. Saint-Cyr circles out, but Melendez cuts him off with a furious leg kick that wobbles Saint-Cyr a bit. Saint-Cyr looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Jose Melendez's punches and both fighters are wildly hitting the air. The two continue in the exchange and Melendez finds a rhythm, tagging Saint-Cyr and just won't stop! He continues to rain punches and Saint-Cyr may be in trouble!]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Uh oh! Lovelie Saint-Cyr is rocked! He’s eating a lot of punches and needs to get out of there.
JASON JACKSON
We’re seeing Melendez come to life here in the final round of this fight. He knows that he’s down and needs to finish and he’s pulling out all the stops. Both of these fighters want to move on so badly but there can only be one. Right now Jose Melendez wants to make sure it’s him.
[Both fighters slow the pace down a bit, each landing some tentative punches. You can hear the excitement from the crowd as the momentum swings back and forth. Saint-Cyr moves backwards and now it’s Melendez who taunts his opponent, trying to get him to stand and trade. Both fighters circle around the center of the cage and a nice low kick from Saint-Cyr connects with a loud pop! Saint-Cyr then rushes in with a combination but Melendez shows some great movement by dodging the strikes.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Gotta love the heart these two are showing out there. No stop, pedal to the metal from start to finish.
JASON JACKSON
Killer head movement here by Jose late in the round too. You know it’s not easy to dodge those punches when you are this tired and battered. Tremendous heart from both of these guys as they prove to the world why they were selected for this tournament.
[Lovelie comes in with a looping right hand while Melendez jumps back and jabs. Saint-Cyr seems staggered after eating a big counter and Jose runs in to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses! LSC throws a straight left then another leg kick, but Melendez ducks under and checks the kick. A quick hook from Saint-Cyr glances off the arm, and Melendez is showing off some incredible awareness right now and has got Saint-Cyr frustrated out there!]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Jose Melendez is firing on all cylinders right now, but he’s gotta finish it off!
JASON JACKSON
The tables are turned, and now it’s LSC showing some frustration out there. He’s ahead in this fight but he wants to finish this round dominantly, preferably with a stoppage to set the tone for his opponents moving forward. He needs to calm himself down though, and go back to counter striking. Coast it out. Make him come to you. He needs to finish, not you. Pump the brakes big fella.
[Saint-Cyr seems hesitant now, as if he would give the initiative to his opponent. Melendez stays patient and seems like he’s finding success with the counter game. Saint-Cyr launches a hook to the body but Melendez moves to the side and counters with a big right hook! Saint-Cyr gets blasted square on the bridge of the nose and slips to the mat! Before Melendez can do any follow up offense, LSC pops back to his feet and throws a right hand that just hits air. Melendez opts out of countering and instead shows some respect to his opponent’s power and circles away to gain some distance.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Not much time left in this fight. If Melendez wants to secure a win, I think he needs to go for the finish.
JASON JACKSON
Crazy recovery by Saint-Cyr. He popped right back up, but his nose looks busted. He’s definitely gonna feel that one tomorrow.
[It seems Saint-Cyr is growing impatient and forces a heavy one-two combo that goes wide and Melendez counters with a gut wrenching middle kick. Saint-Cyr blocks it with his arms, but the loud impact proves he still felt it. The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the exhausted fighters to go to their corner.]
JASON JACKSON
There’s the horn.
BODIE SULLIVAN
And this one goes the distance! This round clearly goes to Jose Melendez, but is it enough to take home the win? Lovelie Saint-Cyr started off hot in this fight, clearly winning the first round, and quite possibly the second round as well. How the judges saw the second round will be the biggest question.
JASON JACKSON
By my scorecard, I have it 29-28 Saint-Cyr. I gave LSC the first two, and Jose the Third. We’ll see how the judges score it. Either way? Outstanding fight between two elite caliber fighters.
[The crowd explodes into cheers as the final round concludes. Medics file into the octagon and check on both fighters. Once they’ve completed their tasks and exit the cage, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, after three rounds, we go to the judges’ scorecards for a decision. The judges score it 30-27, 29-28, and 29-28, declaring your winner by unanimous decision, Lovelie Saint-Cyr!
[The crowd cheers once again as Saint-Cyr has his hand raised in victory. Both fighters shake hands as a gesture of mutual respect before splitting off to each one’s crew. A graphic pops up on screen, breaking down the statistics of the fight as the commentators recap.]
JUDGE SPENCER LANE
Jose Melendez 9 9 9: 27
Lovelie Saint-Cyr 10 10 10: 30
JUDGE CALLUM CARTER
Jose Melendez 9 9 10: 28
Lovelie Saint-Cyr 10 10 9: 29
JUDGE OLLIE FULLER
Jose Melendez 9 9 10: 28
Lovelie Saint-Cyr 10 10 9: 29
Winner: Lovelie Saint-Cyr by Unanimous Decision
Statistics: Jose Melendez
Punches 30/62 (48%)
Kicks 3/5 (60%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 31 s
Statistics: Lovelie Saint-Cyr
Punches 36/70 (51%)
Kicks 8/22 (36%)
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 6 s
[Standing alongside the Heavyweight champ we are greeted to Isaac Cohen. Along with Kennard he has some of his team with him from Ninth World most notably Bullet Barerra.]
ISAAC COHEN
As you can see I’m standing here with the Heavyweight Champion Kennard Rozier. I’m Isaac Cohen and tonight we have a wonderful lineup for you guys.
[Kennard just nods his head.]
ISAAC COHEN
First and foremost how are things going with you champ?
KENNARD ROZIER
You know Isaac I can’t complain. I woke up today feeling good and blessed. My lil girl healthy and my people’s straight. All is good.
[Kennard reaches down and picks up his daughter Kennarjae who gives a little wave.]
ISAAC COHEN
It’s been some months since we last saw you in the cage. Not much has been said either. What has the Heavyweight Champion been getting into?
KENNARD ROZIER
Business as usual, but really being a dad more than ever. It’s like I’m always focused on becoming a better fighter and being the best in the world… that I can’t forget about the most important thing in my life. It feels good to finally get back though. I’m use to having longer layovers than most fighters by now.
ISAAC COHEN
With you being on top of the Heavyweight Division so long how have you stayed motivated. We’ve seen and heard stories of when fighters are at their peaks for so long how they get complacent. How have you been able to still wanna get up and do the same things that got you to this point in your career?
[Kennard takes a moment to think on the question.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Honestly Issac I think it’s because I love the sport more than anything. Yeah, I wanna bag. Who don’t? I get paid a million and some change to win or lose. That’s ultimately a win win situation and I’ve set myself up for that. I’m blessed man and always thankful, but just wanting to create the biggest legacy I can in my division keeps me going. There’s gonna be a day when some guy comes through and take everything I worked for. I just wanna make sure that he knows how harder he has to work if he wants to ever come close to what I’ve done and will continue to do. That’s major to me.
ISAAC COHEN
Tonight you’ll step into the cage for the tenth time against bonafide Hall Of Famer and two time champion Roscoe Robinson. This is a fight you both have been calling for, but even more the fans. How did we finally get to this point?
KENNARD ROZIER
Roscoe is a bitch made ass fuckboy. Don’t like him at all and never will. He dodged me for a whole year and some change until 3B and Supa came around and started bringing all the phony’s to the forefront in mixed martial arts. Roscoe happened to be one of them. When I became a champion I looked at Roscoe as a potential big payday for me. I had some defenses under my belt and the similarities in fight styles was just too much for the fans to ignore so I wanted to fight. I wanted to get my hands on some of that money and cement myself as the best in the sport. I did that anyway but it just took longer. Tonight is a while in the making. Win lose or draw it ain’t gone be over I.C. It’s beef. Don’t like him at all.
[You can hear some of the Ninth World members saying “Fuck Hit Squad” and “Roschoe”.]
KENNARD ROZIER
Tonight is simply about putting him in his place and letting him know who really the best in the world is. I don’t lose rounds. I’m undefeated and even a loss can’t set me back because at the end of the day I’m still the best fighter in the world and everybody knows that. Roscoe is chewing off more than he can bite tonight. The streak continues.
[With that Kennard and his team walks off and things begin to fade to Bullet Barerra saying something that can’t be heard.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Co-Main Event of the evening! The following contest is scheduled for three rounds in the Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Championship Contender Grand Prix. Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 14-2. He stands 6’3”, and weighing in at 225 pounds. He is from Detroit, Michigan, fighting out of the 9th World Performance Institute, presenting the G2 Grand Champion and the number ten ranked Heavyweight in the World, Gauge “Lights Out” Lattimore!
[Gauge Lattimore glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
The second man to make his Union GP debut is the blazing star, Gauge Lattimore. This guy has been phenomenal, racking up fourteen straight wins. Granted, those all came in Everest and G2, so how much stock you put into that can be debated. However, one thing you cannot debate is that two of those wins come at the expense of Daniel Fisk Jr. You may have heard of the guy. Lattimore is no slouch, that we can all agree on, but this is his first pro fight where he’s had to cut weight. How much of a factor that plays will be determined in short time.
JASON JACKSON
I’m a big fan of this guy. Like you said, he has wins over .44, he is a knockout machine, and Lights Out is ALWAYS fun to watch. I mean, he’s fourteen and two. FOURTEEN AND TWO. Brodie, I was fourteen and four with one draw when I retired and I’m in the hall of fame. Granted, I’ve beaten some huge names as well, and I’ve been beaten by some big names also. This guy is impressive though, and I think he could certainly be a champion here. I almost believe that Lattimore could even go 100% with Pluggz Rosier and not fair too shabby. I do believe they even spar together. He’s legit, and I think Santos has a fight on his hands tonight.
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Boxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 5-3. He stands 6’2”, and weighing in at 225 pounds. He is from Melbourne, Australia, fighting out of Throne MMA, presenting the former Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Title Challenger and the number one ranked Cruiserweight Contender in the World, “The Punisher” Michael Santos!
[Michael Santos 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.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Make no mistake about it, this is a big test and opportunity for Michael Santos. Yes, he currently ranks as the number one contender in the 225 pound division, but when you look at his record, this tournament is exactly what he needs to truly solidify himself once again as a title contender. He’s fought and lost once already to current champ Roscoe Robinson, and his other two losses come from Ardan Kelly, a guy who’s lost twice to The Shooter. He’s kind of in a hole to get back into the discussion, but if he can topple a red hot streaking Champion like Gauge Lattimore, you better believe his name is back at the top of the list for a title shot.
JASON JACKSON
Santos is what we call a warhorse. He’s tough, resilient, and he likes to dig into the trenches and trade mortars with you until only one person is left standing. He’s got a solid chin, and superb boxing… but he also has a temper and an underdeveloped grappling game. We’ll see if he can take that step toward taking another shot at Roscoe, or if Lattimore moves on. We’ll know soon enough though, as we hand it over to Herschel Warden to get the fight underway.
=========================================
ROUND ONE
=========================================
[Santos and Lattimore move forward as the bell signals the beginning of the fight. As they draw closer, Santos rushes in and rains down a flurry of punches! Lattimore gets tagged several times and may be in trouble! Lattimore throws a combo back but Santos ducks under and catches him with a counter straight! Lattimore swings again, only to get countered once more!]
BODIE SULLIVAN
OOH! Lattimore is looking bad here! Santos explodes and could be looking to finish this thing right now!
JASON JACKSON
Lots of talk from Lattimore on Social Media leading up to this fight, maybe that’s why Santos has come out balls to the wall here, but hey… it’s working for now. Don’t let it get you caught up though…
[Both fighters continue to engage in a wild exchange and now Lattimore is getting the best of the back and forth as he lands a few more stinging blows. Lattimore winds back and throws a big hook but Santos slips the punch and counters with a bone shattering straight left hand! Lattimore stumbles back, but walks right back in and fires off a brutal flurry that cuts Santos over his left eye. Santos tries circling out, but Lattimore cuts him off and launches a stiff jab right down the middle. The jab barely connects but it seems like one finger has poked Santos in the eye! The referee stops the action and allows Santos time to recover.]
JASON JACKSON
Eye poke. Ouch.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Oh, you hate to see that, especially right in the middle of a firefight like that.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, it’s like rock-em sock-em robots out there right now. I told you this one was gonna be an absolute banger.
[The referee issues a verbal warning to Lattimore while Santos recovers. After some time, the fight resumes. The two close the gap and Lattimore suddenly spins around and connects with a spinning back fist on Santos' chin! Despite the impact, Santos keeps his focus and measures Lattimore with his jab with good accuracy. Lattimore throws a looping left hand that again lands on Santos' chin and stops him right in his tracks! Santos shakes the cobwebs off and fires off an incredible haymaker that snaps Lattimore's head backwards!]
JASON JACKSON
Holy shit, Santos just walked through TWO. Not one, TWO big shots like the fuckin’ Terminator and CRUSHED Lattimore with a huge punch in return.
BODIE SULLIVAN
This is a scenario where a weight cut can go wrong. Lattimore could be dehydrated out there, and when you’re depleted, it’s harder to take and absorb those kinda hits. Santos is used to and conditioned to this and it’s showing right now.
[Both Santos and Lattimore step in and engage in another heated exchange. With the crowd roaring, both fighters are connecting with some brutal shots and it looks like the fight could stop at any moment! Santos launches a big uppercut, but Lattimore’s timely defense allows him to dodge the big shot and fire back with a rapid series of punches, taking Santos from one end of the cage to the other! Santos crashes into the fence and fires back with a barrage of punches over Lattimore. The two continue trading back and forth and the crowd is losing their minds. Finally the two back off each other to seemingly catch their breath and circle back to the center.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
These guys are showing some incredible toughness and grit out there!
JASON JACKSON
This is my kind of fight. They deserve an award already. If they don’t get a bonus, I’m gonna give them both 10 Grand out of my own pocket.
BODIE SULLIVAN
But you couldn’t loan me a dollar for the vending machine earlier? I see how it is!
JASON JACKSON
You lost at rock-paper-scissors. Blame it on fate, not me.
[Santos decides to throw some tentative punches to measure his distance, while Lattimore shows his boxing skills with a fast one-two combo. Santos throws some solid punches back, but Lattimore covers up to block them and counters with a surprise roundhouse punch! Santos gets rocked, but feints to draw Lattimore in one way and connects with a crushing hook. Santos tries to land another hook, but Lattimore reads the second one, ducking under and pushing his opponent off to create some space. Off the break, Santos throws a lazy kick which misses its target and gives Lattimore an opening to launch an uppercut that nearly lifts Santos off his feet. Santos shakes his head and mows over Lattimore with a brilliant combination that forces Lattimore to try and defend himself a bit better.]
JASON JACKSON
Santos is inhuman. That’s the only explanation for how he can walk through shots like that. Someone needs to check his pulse.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Like you said, Jason. Terminator. This guy has got that titanium chin!
[Closing in on the final minute of the round, Lattimore senses some urgency and delivers a powerful Superman punch. Santos gets rocked, and Lattimore follows it up with a bruising haymaker. Santos’ legs are wobbling and could be in serious danger, but Lattimore isn’t letting off as he connects with a big overhand right. The crowd is rabid and wondering how Santos is still standing! Lattimore looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Santos' punches, but Santos still takes the brunt of the exchange. Another haymaker from Lattimore connects and now the two engage in a wild exchange! Lattimore is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few more blows and just before the buzzer, he connects with a hook that clearly sends a message. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner and Lattimore is looking confident heading to his corner with the strong finish to the round.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Wow. What a helluva first round for these guys.
JASON JACKSON
I’d hate to be a judge in this fight. That’s… it’s… it’s just too close to call. That was wild. What a round! I can’t believe the pace, and the volume, and the damage that both of these guys have sustained. It’s unreal. I’m serious, If they don’t get a bonus, I’ll give them both one. AND I’ll give you a dollar for the vending machine. That’s church. I put that on a bible.
BODIE SULLIVAN
You’re a good man, JJ.
=========================================
ROUND TWO
=========================================
[The second round opens up and Santos doesn’t waste any time in throwing a combo. Lattimore reads it well though and ducks under then catches him with a counter straight left! Santos swings again, only to get countered once more! Santos is looking bad here! Lattimore fires off another haymaker and Santos’ head snaps back from the sheer force. As the fight continues it seems clear that Gauge Lattimore is taking the best of the fight. Lattimore tries to show off his boxing skills with a quick one-two combo
and those punches tag Santos in the face. Another wicked punch from Lattimore rocks Santos!]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Yooooo! Michael Santos is on dream street right now! He needs to calm down and get outta the danger zone before Lattimore puts this one away!
JASON JACKSON
Bodie, one thing I’ve noticed about Gauge is that he’s super evasive, and surgically accurate. He’s landed, oh I’d say around 85% of his strikes so far? That’s super impressive. While Santos is swarming, he’s also missing, and that takes a lot out of you. Gauge is capitalizing on his errors, and landing with pin-point accuracy.
[Santos’ cornermen are screaming to get some distance, but Lattimore is dialed in. An overhand right from Lattimore connects and it looked like it was capable of destroying a brick wall! Santos’ nose gets busted up, and it’s a wonder how much more he can withstand. Lattimore fires off another fast one-two combo then lands a crushing Superman punch. Santos now has a busted lip and is a bloody mess!]
JASON JACKSON
He’s picking him apart. He’s crumbling right now.
BODIE SULLIVAN
If Michael Santos can’t get out of this, there’s no way this goes to the judges. Gauge Lattimore is putting on a pace that Santos cannot keep up with.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah. I’d say. He’s leaking blood all over the canvas. It looks like the elevator doors just opened in the shining.
[Santos tries launching a leg kick, but Lattimore easily checks it and counters with an uppercut. Lattimore is in complete control as he continues to pummel Santos with strikes at will and the referee is watching closely, telling Santos to defend himself. Lattimore has Santos backed up against the fence and delivers a devastating right hand nearly folds Santos, and referee Herschel Warden has seen enough! The fight is over! Santos was not intelligently defending himself!]
BODIE SULLIVAN
And this one is all over! What a wild swing of momentum here in the second round! Wow, welcome to Union Grand Prix, Gauge Lattimore!
JASON JACKSON
Oof. That right hand was ugly. I thought he was out, but he was clearly in danger. Good decision here by the ref to stop this one. Mike Santos is bleeding badly. His lip was split pretty bad by that superman punch. Let’s watch that again…. UGH. Devastation. Man this guy is FOR REAL.
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Lattimore calmly heads to his corner pounding his chest with a clenched fist. The medical staff file into the octagon and tend to Santos. Aftera few moments pass, Santos is helped back to his feet, and once the excess personnel exit the cage, 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 one minute fifty-five seconds in the second round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, Gauge “Lights Out” Lattimore!
[The crowd cheers once again as Lattimore 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: Gauge Lattimore by TKO (Punch) at 1:55 Round 2
Statistics: Michael Santos
Punches 22/42 (52%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Gauge Lattimore
Punches 52/58 (90%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
[After returning from the final commercial break and sweeping the crowd to spotlight the big names in attendance, the feed transitions to a tight frame of Jason Jackson and Bodie Sullivan sitting at the broadcast table. The arena is still buzzing and patiently waiting for the main event, but before we move on, the voices of MMA drop their hot takes on the fights we just witnessed up to this point.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
What a night it’s been so far, ladies and gentlemen! After four fights, we now know who moves on to the semifinals of the Triple C GP and become one step closer to that big money and big opportunity.
JASON JACKSON
And then there were 4, uce. We had a few surprises too, if I’m being honest, but it gave us some JUICY matchups heading into the Semi Finals.
BODIE SULLIVAN
We started the night off with two ScrapYard fighters scoring some incredible submission victories. Ardan Kelly and Reggie James advance and will face each other next where the winner advances to the finals. Any way you slice it, ScrapYard is in the finals.
JASON JACKSON
Which speaks volumes for the camp. They have some real contenders over there and this fight is going to be a BJJ chess match. Teammate vs teammate. Shit is going to get real. This one is going to be hard to call. When we do No Cap, don’t even ask me to call this one. I’m going to throw something at you.
BODIE SULLIVAN
The second half fights turned into a frenzy of flying fists where Lovelie Saint-Cyr gifted José Meléndez his first loss, and Gauge Lattimore improves his overall MMA winning streak to fifteen straight fights with a big TKO win over Michael Santos. LSC and Lattimore will square off in what is surely going to be a barn burner affair, and when you look at it, however these next two fights play out, we’ll have a grappler versus striker finals!
JASON JACKSON
A HIGH level grappler vs HIGH level striker affair in the finals. However it boils down, we know that we are in for a fucking war. I think LSC vs Lattimore could be the best fight of the tournament, low key. I’m super hype for this one.
BODIE SULLIVAN
I’m excited to see this next round unfold at Boss Fight XXVI, but now it’s time to shift gears to our final fight of the evening! It’s the Openweight contest between Kennard Rozier and Roscoe Robinson!
[The entire building is vibrating with a low hum of chatter and cheers. The dead silence builds anticipation and the crowd begins to grow more impatient by the second. Then, the entire arena goes from day to night mode, complete darkness, and the fans in attendance lose their minds as the music hits.]
♫
I WON’T DENY IT, I’M A STRAIGHT RIDAH
YOU DON’T WANNA FUCK WITH ME
GOT THE POLICE BUSTIN' AT ME
BUT THEY CAN’T DO NOTHING TO A G
♫
[“Ambitionz Az A Ridah” by 2Pac plays throughout the arena, green laser lights shooting in all directions as the capacity crowd begin to stir.]
♫
LET’S GET READY TO RUMBLE!
♫
[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 Union GP Cruiserweight Champion makes his entrance.]
[“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 gold, the Monster Energy logo covering the left side of his trunks and the cbdMD logo on his lower right. He wears a black shirt with large gold letters across the front of it reading ‘HIT SQUAD’. Glistening in the bright lights shining down upon him, the Union GP Cruiserweight Championship rests around his waist.]
[With his entourage of Donnie Calabrese, Lovelie Saint-Cyr, and Jakko Wirman now stepping out from the back and surrounding him, Roscoe bounces back and forth to stay loose before heading towards the cage - a warrior walking out onto the battlefield.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
This is it, JJ! I’m so amped right now! Champion versus Champion. This is what dreams are made of. Look at Roscoe Robinson, this guy is absolutely zeroed in right now. He has waited so long for this moment, and finally it has arrived. This is a type of fight that will live on in folklore for generations.
JASON JACKSON
Man, I’ve got the chilly-willies, uce. This one is going to be intense. I’m digging the music, I’m digging the vibes, and I’m ready for some VIOLENCE. This one has been brewing for quite some time. There has been a back and forth war on twitter from both camps for quite some time, and the rivalry goes back even as far as Real Killas, before Roscoe, Donnie, Spyda, Jakko, and LSC left to form the HitSquad. There’s been a lot of talk about who the better man is, and who deserves to sit atop the pound for pound rankings. This fight answers that question.
[Once at cageside, Roscoe stands tall, staring at the door leading into the battlefield. He undresses and hands off his warmups to his cornermen and tosses his shirt into the crowd before giving each one of them an embracing hug before turning to the official. As he’s being inspected, 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 as the official finishes his checklist. 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 Union GP Cruiserweight Championship from his waist, raising it above his head. Dropping down to the mat, he hands the championship to the referee then slowly heads toward his corner, where his crew drapes a Hit Squad flag over the fence.]
♫
LAME NIGGAS EVERYWHERE DO YOU SEE IT?
I FEEL LIKE RIPLEY'S DOG CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?
♫
[As "Juice" by Peirre Bourne plays, Kennard Rozier enters the main stage behind a custom mask over his face. He's wearing a black and tan robe that says Pluggz The Great on the back. As he stands center stage, taking it all in, 9th World Head Coach Ray Delhomme, Asher Jrue, and Blue Barrera circle around their heavyweight ambassador. After a few moments, Rozier and his corner crew slowly make their way to the cage.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
And now, for the final walkout of the night, the unbeaten Heavyweight King, Kennard Rozier! This is a type of guy whose presence commands the attention of everyone in the room. And right now, twenty thousand plus have their eyes set on this big man.
JASON JACKSON
Shit, more than that. He’s got the whole world watching on Pay Per View, and he’s got his whole team and the weight of his claims and his boasts on social media on his back. He’s unbeaten, and has one punch, ferocious power. But I think he’s going up against the biggest test of his career. Yes, Donnie is good, yes Ferdinand was good, yes VIKTOR VOLKOV is good, but Roscoe Robinson is GREAT. So this is Pluggz’ chance to attain that greatness. To ascend to that level. He’s also got the weight of that undefeated streak hanging over his head as well, ready to come crashing down like an anvil in a looney toons cartoon. The pressure is on here, and this is the fight of all fights for Kennard Rozier.
[Kennard stares at the cage while his coach Ray Delhomme takes off his robe giving him some last notes. Kennard turns around and hugs everyone in his corner then hands the custom mask off to Coach Delhomme. Rozier steps up to the official to be inspected. After the ocular pat down, Rozier’s been cleared and he stoically climbs the steps. Just before entering the gate, Rozier crouches down and gives himself a brief pep talk. He enters the octagon with much fanfare, despite being in enemy territory, and makes his way to his corner without expressing any emotion.]
JASON JACKSON
I just wanted to take a moment here to give both of these respect for what they do for their communities. They are a real example of how a fighter should be. Sure, there is a lot of shit talk between camps, but at the end of the day they are good hearted people, who give back to folks in need. They teach and guide the youth, and keep them off the street and on the right path, while teaching them to be exemplary men and women. I have immense respect for that. Shout out to them.
[With both fighters stationed in their corners, the hype man, Mike Dempsey, steps into the center of the octagon. The entire arena is pitch black except for three spotlights shining down on both fighters and the cage announcer.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the Main Event of the evening! Sanctioned by the Georgia Athletic and Entertainment Commission, our three judges scoring this contest at cageside are Spencer Lane, Callum Carter, and Ollie Fuller, and when the action begins, our referee in charge in the octagon is Dusty Whittaker. AND NOW, this is the moment you’ve all been waiting for! The following contest is scheduled for five rounds in the Union Grand Prix Openweight Division! Introducing first, fighting out of the blue corner, a Kickboxer holding a professional mixed martial arts record of 13-2. He stands 6’1”, and weighing in at 215 pounds. He is from Palmdale, California by way of Atlanta, Georgia, fighting out of the Hit Squad, presenting the reigning, undisputed Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Champion of the World, “The Shooter” Roscoe Robinson!
[Roscoe Robinson looks calm in his corner as he paces from side to side. He knows this is without a doubt the biggest fight in his decorated career.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
And his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, a Kickboxer holding an unblemished professional mixed martial arts record of 9-0. He stands 6’5”, and weighing in at 225 pounds. He is from Kansas City, Missouri, fighting out of the 9th World Performance Institute, presenting the reigning, undefeated, undisputed Union Grand Prix Heavyweight Champion of the World, “Pluggz” Kennard Rozier!
[Kennard Rozier remains emotionless as he sways from side to side. He looks confident in himself, but is aware of what’s ahead of him.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Here we are, folks! This is the moment we have been waiting for for months on end. Who will walk away as the pound for pound ruler of Union Grand Prix? We are just moments away from answering the long awaited answer!
JASON JACKSON
Don’t blink people. Don’t blink. This one could be over in a second.
[Referee Dusty Whittaker makes his way to the center of the octagon and directs both fighters to follow his lead. Mike Dempsey stands close behind and holds the microphone for the official.]
DUSTY WHITTAKER
Alright gentlemen, we’ve gone over the rules in the back. Protect yourself at all times, follow my instructions, touch gloves if you wish and let's have a good, clean fight.
[There’s a slight pause between the two during their intense staredown, causing a reaction from the crowd, but eventually the two touch gloves and immediately head back to their corners. Dusty Whittaker checks off with each fighter one last time and calls for the bell.]
[The opening bell sounds and the crowd is in pandemonium! Both fighters cautiously step out of their corners and close the distance. Out of nowhere, Roscoe Robinson rushes in and launches a flying knee! The Shooter connects and Rozier’s mouthpiece flies out of his mouth! Not a soul in sight is sitting in their chair as Rozier stumbles back on his heels. Roscoe keeps the pressure on, but Rozier manages to quickly recoup and the two engage in a wild exchange of punches!]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Holy shit! I don’t believe it! Roscoe Robinson opens up with a flying knee and separates Kennard Rozier from his senses!
JASON JACKSON
He separated his mouthpiece from his motherfuckin’ mouth too. Where did it go? Let’s play “find the mouthpiece.” 1-2-3 go.
[Roscoe is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few more blows, but the shots Rozier lands are absolutely brutal. Robinson circles out and looks for angles as he throws a few jabs but gets countered by a quick flurry from Rozier to even up the score. Rozier feints a right jab to open up Roscoe’s defense and lands a crushing left hook right on the chin! Rozier pressures in and looks for angles as he lands a few heavy jabs, but he gets countered by Roscoe with a few stinging punches to cause him to pump the brakes. Roscoe took the brunt of the exchange but he keeps Pluggz honest.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
This can best be described as a head-on collision on a loop! Those hands from Kennard Rozier are absolutely catastrophic!
JASON JACKSON
I hate to use the cliche but “when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object.” right? Someone has to fold though. They can’t do this all night…… Can they?
[Both fighters feint some jabs to dial in their range as they circle toward the center of the octagon. Rozier then steps in and launches a barrage of punches. Each one lands clean and Roscoe is looking like he’s in big trouble! Roscoe tries to shield himself through the firefight and ends up chopping Rozier with a violent calf kick! That kick puts a stop to Rozier’s attack and it's enough for Roscoe to circle out of harm’s way. Rozier tries to keep a close distance and shows a slight limp. Roscoe notices it and puts the heat on Rozier by firing off a bunch of leg kicks.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
As the fight goes on, it seems that Roscoe Robinson is taking the best of the fight. He took some big shots early but has the leg kicks working seamlessly and is gaining some big momentum back in his favor.
JASON JACKSON
Smart. Roscoe sticks to the outside and tries to pick at him to find an opening. Those leg kicks add up, and believe it or not when you chop away at the lead leg it starts to affect your power when youplant yourself to throw bombs. Tactical. Take away the howitzers.
[Roscoe Robinson looks to be finding his rhythm now and has narrowed the gap. He shows off some great awareness by dodging some dangerous strikes from Rozier and counters with a solid straight! Roscoe tried following it up with another leg kick, but Rozier was ready for it, checking it and countering with a powerful left hand that stuns the Cruiserweight Champ! In a bit of a daze, Roscoe fires an unorthodox punch to Rozier's torso but goes wide. The Shooter then backs away after the miss and looks to regroup.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Oooh, Roscoe’s got a nasty cut over his eyebrow. That thing is leaking pretty bad and could hinder his vision.
JASON JACKSON
Yeah, that’s a bad spot for a cut. If this fight ends due to a ref stoppage I’m going to riot. I swear to samoan baby jesus.
[Rozier looks to keep on the offensive and walks in but Roscoe tries to stop him with some more leg kicks. Rozier defends them and sees an opening to counter with a big right hand! Roscoe gets rocked again and Rozier looks to be back in the driver seat. The two exchange wildly and though both are landing shots, neither one lands anything too significant. Roscoe fires off another leg kick and the impact wrenches Rozier’s knee!]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Roscoe is chopping away at the legs of Kennard Rozier. Them things look nasty!
JASON JACKSON
He’s playing lumberjack. He’s slowing him down, and taking away that ability to plant and throw bombs. He weakens that leg up enough and when Rozier sets in to throw a haymaker it may give out on him.
[You can hear the excitement from the crowd as this fight continues to tip the scales back and forth for both fighters. Rozier hobbles forward, launching bombs in the process and wanting to finish this fight. Roscoe gets tagged a few good times then Rozier delivers a head kick! Roscoe eats the kick and the cut over his eye splits open even more! Blood is gushing down Roscoe’s face now and the crowd is intently on their feet!]
JASON JACKSON
That cut is bad. Please don’t stop this fight.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Roscoe Robinson is in a bad spot right now. Kennard Rozier may try to finish this thing off right now!
[Roscoe stumbles back on his heels and crashes into the fence. His cornermen are screaming instructions throughout the chaos while Rozier continues to walk him down. Roscoe throws a body kick that gets blocked and Rozier fires back with a looping right hand. Roscoe tries to lean back and jab, but the Heavyweight Champ continues with a flurry of jabs and crosses. Rozier continues swinging for the fence but Roscoe sees a tight window and hurls an uppercut! The shot lands right on the button, sending Rozier into the shadow realm and giving him some Bambi legs! Roscoe pushes off the fence and fires off a devastating head kick! Rozier hits the mat and before Roscoe can follow it up with some ground and pound, the referee rushes in to put an end to the fight!]
JASON JACKSON
JINGA! DOWN HE GOES! Is it…?
BODIE SULLIVAN
And this one is all over! Just like that, Roscoe Robinson weathers the storm and slays the beast! What an incredible finish!
JASON JACKSON
It wasn’t a long fight, but HOLY HELL was it a good one. That was… I don’t even know what to call that. It was like I just watched two titans battle it out. Big props to both men for withstanding the amount of punishment they did. I think Roscoe needs some stitches, but I don’t think that’s going to stop him from celebrating tonight. I hear he’s got plans for a big afterparty, and you know what Bodie? You and I are cool enough to go too. Now I can get my beer pong rematch and you can give me back my Incredible Hulk #1..
[The crowd explodes into cheers and Roscoe is swarmed by his corner crew in celebration. The medical staff pour into the octagon and immediately tend to Rozier. Eventually he’s helped up to his feet and is able to stand on his own. Meanwhile, Robinson gets his brow bandaged up enough to stop the bleeding, and once the medical professionals exit the cage, both fighters meet back to the center of the octagon for the official call.]
MIKE DEMPSEY
Ladies and gentlemen, referee Dusty Whittaker has called for a stop in this fight at four minutes four seconds in the very first round, declaring your winner by technical knockout, the Union Grand Prix Cruiserweight Champion of the World, “The Shooter” Roscoe Robinson!
[The crowd cheers once again as Roscoe has his hand raised in victory and his title placed over his shoulder. 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 TKO (Head Kick) at 4:04 Round 1
Statistics: Kennard Rozier
Punches 28/39 (72%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
Statistics: Roscoe Robinson
Punches 9/16 (56%)
Kicks 7/14 (50%)
Clinch strikes 0/0 (0%)
Takedowns 0/0 (0%)
GnP strikes 0/0 (0%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 0 s
[As Jason Jackson finishes up his part of the recap, we switch gears back inside the octagon, where Bodie Sullivan stands next to Roscoe Robinson, with a mic in hand.]
BODIE SULLIVAN
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s been an unbelievable night of fights and right now I’m standing with the Union GP Cruiserweight Champion who capped off the night with an mind-blowing finish! Roscoe, congratulations on the big win here tonight, how are you feeling?
ROSCOE ROBINSON
To be honest with you, Bodie, my pockets feeling about a hundred bands light right now. Here we are, the fight is over with, I’m still standing and we didn’t even make it to the second round. Other than that? I’m a bloody mess but I’m feeling really good right now, Bodie.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Now this was an openweight fight, Union GP Heavyweight Champion versus Union GP Cruiserweight Champion. It doesn’t really get bigger than this, despite no championships being on the line. What was going through your mind here in the cage during the fight?
ROSCOE ROBINSON
To kill, plain and simple. Pluggz gave me one hell of a fight out here tonight. I mean just look at what he did to this handsome mug. I’m covered in my own blood from head to toe. What was going through my mind? You saw it yourself, I just didn’t think the ref would step in and steal the knockout from me.
BODIE SULLIVAN
So with this fight behind you, what are you looking forward to next with your career? The Triple C GP was featured heavily here tonight as well.
ROSCOE ROBINSON
Obviously I’m looking forward to that and the challenger that emerges when it’s all said and done. I did announce it and push this whole thing into motion, remember?
BODIE SULLIVAN
Outside of the Cruiserweight Division, are there any fights you want to see happen? Will you be entertaining the Openweight Division more often?
ROSCOE ROBINSON
I’ve done a lot in the Cruiserweight Division, more than anyone else in the company has. I’ve been the UGP Cruiserweight Champion for over, what, two years and some change combined between two reigns. It’s been pretty clear that the Openweight Champion has wanted to fight me again, for the Cruiserweight Championship I took from him twice already so there’s always the possibility to see me take the Openweight Championship from him. Then you got folks posing for pictures with more titles than title fights thinking people should take them seriously when they really aren’t nothing but the biggest phony in the fight game. We already know he ain’t trying to see me. Bodie, I really don’t know what to tell you. All I can say is I’m hungry and I want to fight more often than as of late so if I have to stir some things up to make a fight happen so be it, that’s what ‘The Shooter’ does and that’s two names of many I want to stand across the cage from outside of the Cruiserweight Division without having to drop thirty pounds to do so.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Speaking of the Union GP Openweight Champion Daniel Fisk, can you tell us more about you and the others leaving Real Killas?
ROSCOE ROBINSON
Things just weren’t really clicking for us lately under the Real Killas banner so we decided to do our own thing and we haven’t looked back since. At the end of the day, we’re fighters and Hit Squad is a fight team. For a while things just started feeling more like a business than that and here we are now.
BODIE SULLIVAN
I know you’re exhausted and want to get that eye looked at so I’ll wrap things up. Any last words for the listeners out there?
ROSCOE ROBINSON
I just want to thank my team members at Hit Squad for riding with me. Thank you to my family, I love you. Thank you to the fans who have supported me. Shout out to Monster Energy, cbdMD and Coulter Wear for the hospitality.
BODIE SULLIVAN
Roscoe, it’s been a pleasure calling your fights, especially here tonight. Give it up for your Cruiserweight Champion, ladies and gentlemen!
[There’s a quick handshake between Champion and commentator before Roscoe breaks off to join the rest of his cornermen to celebrate. Between the fence, a heated exchange between Tre Rozier and Derrius Webb gets caught on camera, but before anything can escalate any further, the team on the outside get escorted by security. The final frame shows Roscoe and his teammates posing for pictures inside the octagon, before the feed cuts to black.]