MICROPHONES & MOUTHPIECES EP. 1

[Open to: A shot of the new studio. The camera pans around the octagonal shaped table in the middle of the room which is surrounded by a few ergonomic, comfortable chairs. There is a bottle of what looks to be expensive champagne in the middle of the table, accompanied by a tray of holiday themed snacks, and some photo-typical holiday themed decorations. In the corner of the studio there is a large Christmas tree, lit up and decorated with combat sports themed ornaments including mouthpieces, gloves, hand wraps used as garland, and last but not least, a mock championship belt as a star on the tip top. The camera pans back out, and Jason Jackson makes his way into the frame to take a seat at the head of the table as “Carol of the bells” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra plays over the opening logo. The logo fades, and so does the music. Jason clears his throat before finally speaking into the camera.]

Jason Jackson: Welcome to the show, you Ho-Ho-Hoes, and happy holidays! You are tuned into the first ever episode of “Microphones and Mouthpieces”, a show designed to allow fighters of past and present to weigh in on the current events of combat sports, and give us a little insight into their lives inside and outside of the cage. I’m your host, former 2 time CGFC Dragon Champion Jason Jackson, and boyyyyyy do I have a lineup for ya’ll tonight. We are less than 48 hours away from Union GP’s huge end of the year card, and we’ve got one half of the main event in the building. Give it up for UGP Cruiserweight Champion Daniel Fisk, Ladies and gentlemen. [Cut to: "God" by Jeezy starts to play over the speakers. The UGP Cruiserweight Champion walks in fully dripped and draped proper in a crisp royal blue Sophisticated Savage brand suit. Gutter regal as usual swagger stays smooth. The UGP belt lays easily on Fisk's broad left shoulder as he responds to the Champion welcoming giving his standard salute. A quick stunt face toward the nearest camera followed by a point to the nameplate. "On God nigga 20s. Killa K love you baby. Champ in building." Fisk states to the camera while making his way toward the main set. Jason stands to greet him and extends his hand for a handshake. The crowd seems to hold their breath as they wait quietly for the two men to shake hands, given their past history. Fisk looks at Jason’s hand for the moment then extends his fist for the bump. About as much he will get from the Champ. Jason shrugs and bumps fists with him, before re-taking his seat at the table again to continue.] Jason Jackson: (taking a long look at the belt on Fisk’s shoulder) Man, That’s gotta feel good as hell to be carrying that right now. It’s been a long time coming and here you are. At the top of the game, at the top of the world where you belong. You have a wildly successful gym full of some of the best talent in the game, and you’ve pretty much got gym of the year on lock. How you feeling, champ? Does it feel any different to you, or is it just another day in the life?

[Fisk notices the long look from Jason and shrugs it up even further to be seen by all. ]

Daniel Fisk Jr: Hard work gets results. Killaway. Not bad for a washed up Fisk I'd say.

[Fisk chuckles with a growing smile.]

Daniel Fisk Jr: I try to lead by example but Gs slip up every now and again, just don't fall. Gospel. I'm feeling good Jason. Feeling prosperous. Feeling thankful. Skyview is pretty fucking good from here. The gyms success is credit to the men and women I consider family. They be the reason for the gyms success and they keep me going. I knew each took a big risk in their own careers to hear my dream, believe that dream, & follow through with me. That's why it nothin, whatever they need I got em. Never doubt. Now, we work and rise together, win or lose. Each of us turning dirt to diamonds. Some can't go sometimes but we don't dwell. We just show better & thankfully Real Killas are the top measure. It is just another day because we knew we could reach this level of dominance and the best part is not one of us is stated. Still hungry as fuck.

[Jason nods in agreement as he reaches forward to pull the bottle of Dom Perignon Rosé from the bucket of ice. He pops the cork with what can only be described as familiar expertise and pours them two of them a glass, before setting the bottle back into the bucket of ice to raise his glass into the air as a toast. ] Jason Jackson: You know, I have to admit something. I was one of the ones hating on you and your shine because mine had inflated my head so much that I thought it was all about me. I made some big mistakes, but like you said, we all slip up every now and then. It takes a real motherfucker to see that they were wrong and to ADMIT they were wrong and I was. I know it ain’t going to change anything. I can’t go back and fix what I did and I’m going to leave it in the past but this here? It’s for you, D. This is your moment. You’re one of the baddest men on the planet. The Cruiserweight champion. The only one washed up here these days is me. Haha. Cheers man. You deserve this shit, and I mean that. To you, and the Killas.

[Fisk takes a moment to watch Jason, his glass still sitting in the air welcoming Fisk to join him. The sincerity is real and Fisk recognizes it. The crowd takes another gasp of air Fisk is taking his sweet time looking at the glass of Rose. Niggas and the dramatics right? Fisk grabs the glass with a nod. ]

Daniel Fisk Jr: ..Respect.

[CLING! The glasses meet in the middle and Fisk then pulls his in to enjoy the toast. The crowd cheers in agreement to the moment in a toast to the Champion and also, the first positive interaction between Daniel Fisk and Jason Jackson in quite a long time given the history between the two legends. Fisk is seen nodding in his capo approving way while drinking a little bit more before putting the glass back on his nearby end table.]

Daniel Fisk Jr: I’m living in it cuh. I remember just how quick it can go flat. Ain’t forgot one bit & I will never forget about the fun of this life again. Nothing like it and I know you know exactly what I’m talking on.

[Even Jason looks a little surprised at the response, and a warm smile surfaces as he takes a sip of champagne. Placing the champagne flute back onto the table, he clears his throat and wipes the remaining fizz out of his mustache with a laugh.]

Jason Jackson: Indeed I do. When you’re at the top of the mountain…? When things are going great? Oh man… there’s no feeling like it in the world. But there’s the catch. You can have it all one moment and the next it’s all taken away in a flash. I found that out the hard way. That actually leads me to our next guest. A while back he was sort of a big name in Japan where he racked up wins against some big contenders in the sport. However, he was the victim of a controversial situation, where allegedly, his former manager framed him with tainted tests that gave him a ten year ban in the sport. Well, he returned to the cage recently on November 24th at the Bell Center in Montreal, Quebec, Canada… and D… he did it with style. Check this clip out. [Cut to clip]: {Harmon Janssen decides to launch some tentative punches to measure his distance but Bagwell fires back and Janssen takes the best of a brief punching exchange. Both fighters back out and then size each other up in the center of the cage. Janssen circles around looking for angles. He feints a body shot to get Bagwell to bite on it, and then Janssen puts some serious power behind an incredible Superman Punch! That shot hits Bagwell like a wrecking ball! Bagwell crumples to the mat and Janssen moves in to finish him. The referee jumps in and stops the fight!} Jason Jackson: BAM! That’s some power man. Jeeeeeesus. So look, I know he’s watching backstage, and I want to get him to walk us through this KO first hand so… Harmon come on out man. Ladies and Gentlemen, “The man with the hand of fate”... Harmon Janssen. [Cut to: "Cochise" by Audioslave begins to play over the speakers. As the guitars reverberate through the staged studio, an unshaven Harmon Janssen walks out. Wearing a black leather jacket over a King Diamond T-Shirt with black jeans, Janssen looks around at the small stage, then at the camera and holds his right fist about chest high for a brief second. He then walks over towards the other two men seated at the table. He steps towards Jackson with an extended hand, and Jason doesn’t hesitate to stand and shake his hand. He even uses his free hand to pat the heavyweight on his bicep as he makes an inaudible joke about him being a hoss. Janssen gives a slight smile then turns to offer a fist bump to Fisk. They tap fists and Janssen takes a seat, picking up a hors d'oeuvre from the table along the way.]

Jason Jackson: Welcome to the show, big fella. We were just watching the clip from your knockout win over Bagwell in Montreal, here. You want to walk us through it and give the fans a little insight on what you were thinking there and how it felt to return on such a high note? I mean 3 minutes? That’s all it took to land a motherfucker of a punch and put this guy to bed. Pretty impressive, but I’m sure you’re eager to make your way up the ladder to get a crack at doing that to some bigger names like Ferdinand Diao or the homie Derrick La’Bell, right?

Harmon Janssen: Appreciate for having me here. Typical lure-in, to be honest. Last thing Bagwell probably expected was for me to shoot the leg right off the bell. Felt that if I could catch him off guard, it would help set up a knockout shot later. Back up to standing after that exchange, Announcers had it on point. I was gauging, took a couple shots to watch his defense and saw my opening. One Hand of Fate later, I walk out 1-0. Felt good to get back into the cage. Sparring and other fights only do so much, so the action of the match was a welcome rush. As for taking on Diao or La’Bell or anyone else, this title…

[Harm points at Fisk’s title, eyeing Fisk as he does.]

Harmon Janssen: Or one like it, it’s what any fighter strives for. As long as there’s adrenaline in the body and spark in the brain, you work to get there. Brooks, Calabrese, Hunt, Rozier, doesn’t matter, they’re all stepping stones towards the gold.

[Fisk notices Harmon eyeing him and the UGP Cruiserweight Title. He smirks he nods at the challenge.]

Daniel Fisk Jr: All are welcome to the altar here.

[Fisk taps the top of the UGP star on the belt. ]

Daniel Fisk Jr: All I’ma say on that but that piece was pretty.

Harmon Janssen: Unless you’re planning adding a few pounds, Champ, I think you’re safe. Sure as hell not seeing me drop 40 pounds to go after that.

[Harm grabs another hors d'oeuvre from the table with a smile towards Fisk. Jason leans forward and pours Harmon a glass of champagne as well. He slides it over and then proceeds to take another sip of his own.]

Jason Jackson: I know if you two ever met in the cage it would be a good scrap. Believe me, don’t let size fool you. D and I used to go rounds back in the day at Slaughta. Folks like him, James Shark and Cass Madrigal helped form me into the fighter that I was. Speaking of gyms Harmon, let’s talk about where you do work. I see you talk about a place called Sully’s on social media. Is that your spot? Fill us in.

Harmon Janssen: Sully's is real world training.

[Janssen picks up the champagne glass carefully.]

Harmon Janssen: An old family friend, Sullivan Merriweather, owns a rock bar and billard hall on the Santa Monica beach, Her and her girl Veronica get me to keep an eye on the crowds. I blend in.

[He adjusts his leather jacket slightly, takes a small sip then downs the entire glass of champagne, placing the empty glass back on the table.]

Harmon Janssen: In turn, I play billiards while I watch and sleep in an apartment above the place. Not glamorous, but beachfront and walking distance to a gym, so its means to an end.

[Jason watches him for a second, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth before draining the rest of the champagne in his glass as well.]

Jason Jackson: You remind me a lot of myself a few years ago man. You keep tearing through motherfuckers and violently knocking them out like you did to Bagwell and you’ll be living in a penthouse in no time. If that’s what you want of course. Don’t let the fight game, the money, the fame and the gold change who you are. I learned that the hard way as well. Speaking of gold though, let’s bring out the next guest. Another man I’ve sparred with to help get me prepared for some big fights in my career. Ladies and Gentlemen, Former and Only 2x UGP Heavyweight champion. The OG, Derrick La’Bell!

[Cut To: “Shook Ones Part II” by Mobb Deep starts to play in the studio now. “The Beast” walks up wearing his own Sophisticated Savage suit. He’s got that goofy nice guy smile on his face as he walks in, looking around at the studio. He hits the handshake with Fisk, getting that good snap in with it. He then goes to Jackson and gives him a bro-hug, before shaking Harmon’s hand. He makes a quick shout out to “That Lion Gang”. Derrick seems to melt away any tension or high-strung feelings with his happy-go-lucky attitude as he takes his seat, still smiling like a clown.]

Derrick La’Bell: Aye, fam!! What’s good? Glad to see all y’all here. Seriously. We getting into some elite level fighter stuff right now, huh?

Harmon Janssen: A couple of Two-Time Champs and the Current Cruiserweight Champ in the same set? Can't argue with Track Record.

Daniel Fisk Jr: Could never question it I don't think. Legit longevity should be respected to some point. Accolades or not. Hard to keep it going and I've seen many come and go.

[Jason pours a glass of champagne for Derrick and tops everyone else’s glasses off while they speak. Finally, he places the bottle back into the bucket of ice and speaks up.]

Jason Jackson: It’s true man…and you know like...It’s hard to go, and I mean really go, for years at a time without a break. For a long while there, I was throwing down in CGFC or MLC every month, damn near. As long as I didn’t catch a medical, I was back out there in a few weeks ready to throw down or defend my belt again. It breaks down your body after a while because you’re not taking those rests that you need. You’re not giving your body time to heal and recover after going to war like that and ultimately it becomes detrimental to your longevity as a fighter. It’s important to take some time off and let your body catch up and recharge. That’s why I like the way Dante Reed books his fighters. He really looks out for you guys and gives you the time to recoup.

[Jackson pulls out a THC vape pen and takes a few pulls off of it, before offering it around the table out of respect.]

Jason Jackson: Of course this thing here really helped me along the duration of my career when I could and even more now that I’m not completing. Don’t get me wrong... I’m still in the gym, still training, still working. Granted, not as much as I used to be but… I’m not just getting fat at home, sitting on the couch eating tacos haha. But you know the rules are so weird with fighters still competing and THC being considered a PED… so you really have to tread lightly or you end up riding the bench because you catch a suspension. I dunno man, speaking of riding the bench. Derrick! Where have you been, my man? I see you’re doing professional wrestling now but I think what we all want to know is…. when are you going to be making a return to the cage?

[It’s clear that Jackson is just joking around with his “riding the bench” comment, and he gives his friend a sly wink as he delivers the line, assuring him that he meant no disrespect. Derrick laughs a bit.]

Derrick La’Bell: Honestly, whenever I get signed to a fight in UGP. I know my boy Sha wants me to get in his cage, or start boxing, but I can only take so much of the guy, haha. Nah, but for real. I got no clue. I’m doing the wrestling gig kinda as a hobby to pass the time, but I’m ready to fight. I know there’s a whole mess of guys in the division that wanna scrap with the forever face of the Union GP Heavyweights. So I’m ready when they ready, ya know? I still never got my championship rematch either, by the way, so that should also be another fight coming here soon.

[Derrick kinda shrugs with a smile.]

Derrick La’Bell: It’s kinda funny to, because my girl was asking me the same thing. She’s wrestler so she doesn’t quite get why I’d rather fight every 2-3 months and make half a mil and not ruin my body, rather that wrestle all over God’s green earth every single week and make a $1.50.”

[Daniel Fisk Jr leans up a bit being closer to Jason he points out the pen that he was vaping on.]

Daniel Fisk Jr: You bringing out that pen just made me think of something in general. Yalls thoughts on CBD oil? Don’t get me wrong think the world be a brighter place niggas just smoke somethin but 2020 got me looking into shit. THC is still a real gray area but CBD chill for most part.

Derrick La’Bell: To quote my boy, Stephen A., “Stay off the damn WEEEEEEEDUH!!!”

[This makes all four men laugh abit at the reference, and the spot on impersonation. Derrick tries to control himself for a second.]

Derrick La’Bell: Nah, but for real though, I don’t see a problem with it. Green is a new industry and once it gets completely legalized that shits gonna boom up real nice. I don’t smoke, just cause, but from a strict business perspective, I’m all for it and if ya need a brotha to lend a hand with the upfront money, I gotchu. Call that shit “Double D’s” or something!

Jason Jackson: Man, I think out of competition, THC should be allowed. In competition however, it’s definitely a grey area, but it really helps guys mentally and it’s great for your body and the recovery we face after a long camp and tough fight. CBD is super beneficial for that. I think guys should be allowed to used CBD during training and competition because overall it’s great for your body and health. You don’t have to smoke it either. They’ve got candy, drinks, oil, the list goes on. I think it is a great thing for not just fighters, but all athletes as well, to be able to take advantage of. To each his own though. Personally, I’ve been smoking herb since the island days. Haha. I don’t take pharmaceutical drugs at all if I don’t have to. Just go go gadget, THC.

[Jason hits the pen again and tucks it back into his pocket, before reaching forward to take another drink of his champagne as he turns to Derrick.]

Jason Jackson: We’re all ready to see you back though, man. That Heavyweight division is pretty good and jumpin’ right now. You’ve got guys like Dog Face tha Don, Pluggz, Ol’ Ferdinand, Hunt, and Harmon here holding it down so you got some familiar faces and some new blood and you know they want to mix it up with the OG! Hopefully Dante can get things sorted out and get you back in there.

[Jason rifles through some papers in front of him before slipping over a sheet of paper to Daniel Fisk. He then reaches forward to pick up his champagne glass and take another sip before addressing the camera.]

Jason Jackson: So, it's time to bring out our next guest. Being that he’s one of the up and coming Real Killa prospects, I’m going to let D do the honors.

Daniel Fisk Jr: Hmm, I usually leave Giz for shit like this. Aight aight, ahem --- I heard they calling him Milk Chocolate at the shop so one of the girls peeping him. One thing the Chitown hometown Killas have is heart. Decker stays on deck! Yall was sleepin on him but he waking yall up. On ten moving forward with poise is my brother “Ripcord” Travis Decker!

[The drum breakdown of “In The Air Tonight” by Phil Collins kicks in as Travis comes into frame, wearing a neat black button up shirt, mustard coloured pants and a basic pair of vans. He smiles as he walks in and bro hugs Dan, before politely shaking the hands of each of the other men at the table. He takes his own seat and leans forward to the mic.]

Travis Decker: Thanks D. And hey guys, glad to be here.

Jason Jackson: Glad to have you! You want some champagne?

[Jason offers Decker a champagne flute before continuing to speak]

Jason Jackson: I’ve been watching your fights lately and you’re a skilled fighter with a lot of heart. It just seems like things haven’t been going your way. I know you have to be frustrated… but what’s next? How do you plan on shaking this off and getting yourself back in the win column?

[Travis puts his hand up to politely refuse. Jason nods and places the glass back on the table. ]

Travis Decker: Thank you, but i’m ok. Yes my career up to this point is what one could say… troubled. I fought through some real, excuse my language, bullshit, and just when it looked like things were righting themselves I get tuned up by Aries Reed.

Derrick La'Bell: Bruh, I feel that shit. I know I can't say much, but it's like my last handful of fights, I've gotten Dub and then an L then rinse and repeat. It's frustrating but we pulling for you.

[Travis chuckles and shakes his head.]

Travis Decker: Such is life. As for the plan Jason, i’m afraid my answer is a boring one. I get back in the gym, and I work on what went wrong and continue improving so that while my 2019 ended on a flat note, I can start 2020 on the right foot. Always moving forward.

Daniel Fisk Jr: No cap or front, it’s that mentality that’s going to show prove in hard order. That hunger and want to improve. His bounceback is going to be nice but the rise will be the real hitta. Mark word on god.

Jason Jackson: Yeah, you know... it’s unfortunate for both fighters when it’s a decision like that. I tried to finish every fight I ever had and did a pretty damn good job of it too for the most part. I’ve seen some pretty bad decisions and stoppages over the years though. That’s the risk you run when it comes to judges, unfortunately, but heart and fire like that between the two of you to run it back and make it right is the type of shit I love to see from up and comers of the sport. I watched that fight, and it was a pretty good matchup too. It looked like a classic grappler vs striker matchup. I gave you the edge for sure because you were landing takedowns at will and had a great game plan for facing a banger like him. I’m sure when the rematch happens the two of you will do everything you can to look for a finish though, and leave no question or doubt. No judges needed, right? I actually hear they announced that rematch is going to happen to pop off the new year too! Main event! That’s gotta be exciting right?

[Travis almost looks like he slips into PTSD at the mention of that fight, but shakes it off and laughs.]

Travis Decker: Yeah, I have spoken at length about… that particular fight. It hit the both of us pretty hard, it may have even hit Zion more if I’m completely honest, but it doesn’t matter how much I feel I won that fight, I didn’t. And that is just how it is. However it did affect me and win or lose, I know we both wanted this fight for a chance to end the fight the way the both of us, and the people, deserve it to be ended. The fact it is the main event of the first show of the new year is just a massive cherry on the cake. So to actually answer your question instead of blabbing on, yes its really fucking exciting.

[Travis laughs and Jason nods at Travis in approval.]

Jason Jackson: I like that answer. This one has a good head on his shoulders D. I like the fact that the two of you actually found a way to show respect through this. Clearly you are pissed off by the outcome but you didn’t really blame Zion and that’s pretty good to see. I’m sure he did feel just as guilty about the way things went down as well and I bet he’s just as excited to go out there and show out for the fans to start the new year off right but… I can’t speak for the man. We should probably just ask him. Ladies and gentlemen, our final guest of the night, Zion Momo’a.

Derrick La'Bell: Yo, Zion is my guy!

TEST YOUR MIGHT…TEST YOUR MIGHT…MORTAL KOMBAT!!!

[The familiar song starts and once the synth kicks in, Zion comes zooming out from the back being pursued by what appears to be Santa Claus. The larger man is wielding a pair of candy cane nunchaku and is in hot pursuit of Zion, who is decked out in his full MK Elysian Liu Kang costume. Zion sprints across the studio and with what appears to be effortless grace, he runs up a wall and backflips over the pursuing Santa with ease! Kringle spins around quickly, swiping at Zion with the nunchaku, but Momo’a backflips out of the way again, kicking the weapon out of the evil Santa’s hand. The two have a well choreographed little fight scene for a moment, and it ends with Zion bicycle kicking a defeated Kris Kringle into the Christmas tree on set. Zion rebounds and bounces on his feet for a minute with a cocky smirk, before walking over to take his seat like nothing happened. The crowd cheers and Santa crawls off set.]

Zion Momo’a: What’s up guys?

[It’s clear that this had not been run by Jason, and the look of pure shock on his face is priceless.]

Jason Jackson: What in the seven shades of shit just happened?!

Derrick La'Bell: Bruh...

Daniel Fisk Jr: Uhh word?

[Janssen simply shakes his head in disbelief. The crowd erupts in laughter and Zion finally cracks himself, bursting out laughing at the reactions of the fighters. He reaches forward to pick up a cheese cube and tosses it into the air to catch it in his mouth.]

Zion Momo’a: Man, I just wanted to make an entrance but I wanted to support MK Elysian at the same time. That was fun man! Whew.

[The crowd cheers once more at the mention of the movie, and Zion beams with pride before giving out fist bumps around the table. Travis returns it but shakes his head.]

Travis Decker: I take it back Jason, it was all his fault.

[The men laugh before Jason gets back to business.]

Jason Jackson: Yeah I caught that flick! It was beautifully done! Great cast and writing. It gave a new twist to the Mortal Kombat universe and the action was very well done. How has it been? Juggling both your MMA career while filming a movie?

[Zion shrugs and leans back in his chair to get comfortable.]

Zion Momo’a: Actually, not much changed, believe it or not. It was a martial arts movie, naturally, so I did all my stunts. It was mostly just run of the mill training, parkour, choreography, and praying that I didn’t get injured. I came out unscathed and then came in heavier and feeling a lot better against Euphrates. I think I was phoning it in for a while. After the Cosmo deal, and then the decision against Travis here… I dunno man. It fucked with me. I won’t lie. I felt like I wasn’t worthy anymore and that I wasn’t as good as I thought I was... but my family and friends convinced me otherwise. I’m back with a vengeance. You will see a more rejuvenated and more prepared fighter moving forward. I’m looking forward to running it back with Decker. We owe the fans a better fight and a better ending.

[Travis nods]

Travis Decker: Absolutely, but I think we owe it to ourselves first and foremost to correct what happened and put it right. No questions, no excuses, just two fighters doing what we do.

Derrick La'Bell: That's what I always tell these new guys coming into my division. Act hyped walking in, talk all the shit, be all about the money, but don't forget who we do this for. Whether it's the fans or the fam, we putting our bodies on the line for the entertainment of others, and that's what we gotta remember. We owe it to the fans to put our best fights in every single time.

Harmon Janssen: Flashback to a better time of fighting, when politics and promotional features were set to the side. The only thing you had to worry about was the fight, not the hype. Just part of the game that we all have to fight through now.

[Jason nods and a soft laugh escapes him when he hears what Harmon has to say. He had to admit, he agreed.]

Jason Jackson: Yeah, it just seemed like it was so much easier when I was beating up the self proclaimed “toughest guy in town” on a Saturday night at the local bar for $100. Once I blew up…? Everything changed. It was cameras, and media, and obligations and interviews and well…

[He chuckles a bit more and ties his long hair up into a messy bun.]

Jason Jackson: Here we are, right? Don’t get me wrong though. I feel like the fans are the driving force behind this sport. Without the support they’ve given over the last 10-15 years? This business would still just be us fighting in those nightclubs for peanuts. Like it or not, media draws in fans... and fans draw in money and attention. Without it? This whole ship we’re on sinks like the titanic. I think Zion has the right idea. Cross promotion, blending the two worlds together to bring in more fans. More eyes on the sport. It’s crucial. Because evolving the fight game and bringing in a massive fan base….it is the only way we’ll see the day that MMA fighters clear the same kind of purses that a boxer would. But anyways, enough of my stoned rambling. Decker VS Momo’a 2… who wins and how? Go.

[Jason puts the two fighters on the spot and goes around the table pointing at each fighter, starting with Daniel Fisk. Fisk points his index finger at Decker all business.]

Daniel Fisk Jr: Respect due & to but ima always ride 4 the family. Strong mind to hardbody Deck builds with every fight. He coming on strong for this one. He put on a clinic in the first go, he's gonna show even more. Killas.

[Fisk adjusts the belt on his shoulder and nods toward Jason.]

Derrick La'Bell: I know Decker got a chip on his shoulder, but my boy Zion does too. I'm really split down the middle, but I'm leaning toward Decker, because he lost via the Split last time, and that's a rough loss too.

Harmon Janssen: Momoa. Has to prove that Hollywood hasn't softened him.

[Janssen grabs another drink then looks at both men with a smirk before sitting back in his chair.]

Harmon Janssen: Won't even go for a tapout, just the knockout.

[Jason looks at Decker for a moment, and then shifts his gaze back over to Momo’a who can be seen fist bumping Janssen for his answer.]

Jason Jackson: So, here’s my take. In the first fight, Travis did put on a clinic, but it was a wrestling clinic. While the takedowns were there for my man all night long, the standup game was Zion’s. Now, obviously Travis could come in with the same game plan, and he could look to recreate the first fight...but Zion has to be prepared for that. I’m sure he’s been drilling his takedown defense and it might not be so easy to neutralize the striking with wrestling like before. So, it’s all up to how Decker plays this. If his wrestling shines again? This fight is his for the taking and he may very well be able to finish the fight...but if he tries to go toe to toe and strike with Momo’a ? No disrespect and no sugar coating this. I think he gets the Euphrates treatment. But who knows? No offense to Zion either but he’s been up and down and not very consistent at all. Sure, coming off a KO win fuels the fire a bit but it’s really a toss up. I’m going to go with Travis. It’s hard to knock someone out off your back and Zion lived there in the first fight. I just hope you can wrestle like that again because it was a master class.

[Travis is all business in response, coming from a place of logic and tactics, as opposed to arrogance.]

Travis Decker: With all due respect to Zion and your analysis, it was a wrestling clinic because I wanted it to be, not because it had to be. 2 of my 4 wins are knockouts on the feet for a reason, and after what happened in my fight against Aries, my stand up is something I am absolutely working on. As you said, he can't knock me out from his back, but on the feet I can still kick his head off his shoulders. As for being prepared, preparing for something is one thing… stopping it is another. Either way though, this fight has the potential to go the distance, or end in an instant. I'm really looking forward to it.

[Zion perks up when Travis says he can kick his head off his shoulders and he laughs a little.]

Zion Momo’a: You know, you say “no disrespect” and then try to say you can kick my head off my shoulders. Come on dude. Let’s get real for a minute. You fought the way you did last time because you know how dangerous I am on the feet. You didn’t want it then and you don’t want it now. I give you props for taking me down over and over the last time we fought. In my mind, that’s why you won. But you took me down over and over because you knew that if you didn’t? I would turn the tide with one well placed shot. I got all the respect for you in the world. I’ve told everyone I believe that you won the first fight… but it sure as shit wasn’t due to striking. If you don’t take me down, I’m putting you to sleep. If you can’t do what you did last time? I’ll really show you kicking someone’s head off their shoulders bro. Don’t take jabs at me like that and expect me to sit here and smile about it. Don’t taunt me and think I’m just gonna sit back and take that shit. Ask Euphrates what happens when you taunt me. Matter of fact? Watch the evidence yourself. I’ve been nothing but cool when you’ve talked shit about the decision because you earned that right... but kick my head off? Dude, I WANT you to stand in front of me and trade. If you knock me out, I’ll be the first person to shake your motherfucking hand and tell you I was wrong, but I’d put my entire purse down as a bet that if you try to stand and bang with me? I’ll switch kick you into 2021. That’s MY prediction. Don’t discount me and disrespect me bro.

[Jason puts himself between the two of them and shakes his head.]

Jason Jackson: Whoa, whoa. Let’s dial it back and save it for the cage. That did seem like shots fired but I don’t think he meant it that way. Let’s keep the peace and respect between the two of you. I didn’t mean to kick the hornet's nest. Boy, you two are fired up.

[Zion takes a deep breath and collects himself before speaking up again.]

Zion Momo’a: Look man, I apologize. I didn’t mean to come across as a dick but that to me was mad disrespectful. Is that what this sport has devolved into? Discounting someone’s skills just to make your own self look strong? I’m glad you’ve been working on your striking bro, but go back and watch my fight with the king of the middleweights homie. Watch the fight with Robert Guilliman. Count how many of HIS head kicks I ate before he finally put me away. You’re acting like since the first fight was so controversial, you’ve got this one on lock and can already look past me. You want everyone to think you can win this fight however you see fit, but you know deep down how dangerous I really am on the feet. You can tell these people and yourself and these cameras whatever you want. It’s cool man. But you know and I know that you took me down repeatedly in our first fight because you HAD to. Out of necessity. You had no other choice. I got mad respect for you. I’ve said it over and over, but you saying you’re going to kick my head off my shoulders? My dude… don’t come at me like that. That showed hella disrespect.

Travis Decker: This is the exact reason we went at it on twitter after our last fight. Me stating facts, and you getting offended and in your feelings. I’m driven, but the only one fueled by emotions right now is you. I have won by knockout by head kick before, twice, so unless you somehow think you have a magical non-knockoutable head, then yes, I certainly can do it to you as well. Not once did I discount your skill, or your abilities. You watch back what I said and you’re gonna feel dumb. You’re reaching and being defensive for the millionth time, it really seems to be your thing. Don’t harp on about disrespect because I’m saying something that you don’t like. I have always told it to you straight, I always tell it to everyone straight, and I’m not gonna change it just because I’m in the room with you. You accuse me of disrespect and yet tell me I have no chance on the feet with you? You realise you sound like a grade A hypocrite right? You wanna bring up your fight with Gulliman? Ok lets. I’m going to use that as an example as to why the advantage in our fight is mine. Which was my entire point that you seemed to miss in your emotional tirade. Your fight against Guilliman was entirely in your wheelhouse, your full kickboxing on display, and you lost. Not a shot on you losing before you get pissy again, just listen. Including our fight, once I take it to the ground, I haven’t been outwrestled. So if I’m in YOUR element, I have a definite chance, no matter how much YOU try and talk yourself up. If we are on the ground though, you know you can’t take me. That is not arrogance, it is proven fact. So calm down and sit down, stop making this more than it needs to be.

[Zion shoves his chair out of the way and steps in closer, causing Jason to step in again and push him back.]

Zion Momo’a: Yeah? Make me sit down bro.

Jason Jackson: Whoa, whoa… chill.

Zion Momo’a: Nah, fuck this passive aggressive, condescending bullshit. I didn’t throw shade at you until you said that dumb shit. Tit for tat dawg. You think you can hang with me on the feet? I hope so! I’m looking forward to seeing you give er the ol’ “college try” my dude. Kick my head off my shoulders then, please. Prove me wrong and I’ll shake your hand and tell you how wrong I was. I’m begging you. But god help you if you fucking miss. I’m not distracted this time. I’m focused, hungry, and actually coming in off a nasty KO win. You looking past me is what is going to have you waking up asking “What happened?” playa.

[Travis laughs.]

Travis Decker: You are really determined to make this a thing, huh? Your ego is so fragile that you would rather continue to make a complete ass of yourself not only in front of all of these fine gentlemen, but in front of the world as well. You’re not acting tough, you are acting like a child who got his feelings hurt, and the fact that a /single/ phrase that I said got you this rattled shows the clear gap in our maturity. You really wanna punch on in a public setting with the head of my gym and current champ sitting right there? Not only that, but this ain’t a cage so it’ll be kinda hard to fight me from jail because there’s a little thing called assault, bud. I respect the hell out of your fighting ability, but if you can’t take the, in my opinion extremely mild, heat of MY words of all people, maybe you should stick to movies.

Zion Momo’a: Maybe I should stick to… yo get the fuck outta-

[Jason steps forward and grabs Momo’a by the arm to lead him aside. The two exchange words and the mic pics up only a little of the audio.]

Jason Jackson: You’re just making yourself look bad. I understand how you feel right now but you have to keep your head. Trust me. I used to be like this myself but you’re the one in the wrong. It’s a simple debate and you have to learn to deal with the criticism. You’re a good kid and you’re both great fighters but this is bad for business. Go shake his fucking hand and sell the fight the right way. With mutual respect. We don’t need all this…

[Jason waves his hand at Zion, indicating that they didn’t need douchebaggery to sell the fight. Zion exhales sharply and nods, an apologetic look on his face. Turning from Jason, he walks over to extend his hand to Travis. ]

Zion Momo’a: Yo. My bad. I’d never really been knocked out before Rob and Aries so it’s still kind of a touchy subject. No excuse really but I took that the wrong way. We don’t need beef to sell tickets. Jason is right. I’m sorry for showing out...on live...tv. Damn that was wack.

[Travis chuckles and takes his hand.]

Travis Decker: Don’t worry man, you get used to it. Apology accepted, I know shit can get heated but as far as I’m concerned, it's all love at the end of the day. I wasn’t emotional before and I’m not now. I truly can’t wait for our rematch… Liu Kang.

[Travis gives Zion a playful punch in the arm as he laughs. Jason grabs Zion’s seat and pushes it back over to the table before patting it like a smartass.]

Jason Jackson: Now that we are all friends again, come sit down and don’t ever kick my chair across the room again or you’ll have to fight me and I’m good on the ground and on the feet and can curl your entire body weight damn near. Try me and see.

[Jason laughs and gives Zion a faux-glare before making his way back to his own seat.]

Jason Jackson: Well we were going to do secret santa but I’m not sure if we have time now. Thanks a lot guys. Kidding, kidding! But on a serious note, we are out of time so we’ll exchange gifts here and fans can keep track via Twitter if they are interested in the details of our little Secret Santa thing here. Guys, it’s been a blast. Thanks for being a part of the first ever episode of the show and I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season. That’s all from us here at the M&M studio and we’ll see you at the fights! Adios!

[ The camera pans out to a shot of all the fighters exchanging gifts and joking about Zion’s outbursts and the scene fades to black.]