"Can We Still Copy Technology?"
Ye Chen stared, utterly stunned.
Was this really happening? Every true fighting fan knew that domestic fighters were strong on their feet but struggled with wrestling and ground game.
When it came to standing skills, Ye Chen excelled; however, wrestling, jujitsu, and grappling were the holes in his arsenal.
But just then, a glimmer of hope appeared.
Sure, Li Zhengyong might not be on par with elite jiu-jitsu athletes, but what he had would still be more than helpful.
As he pondered this, he wondered: Did this "critical hit-copying" require a knockout, or simply a solid hit?
The atmosphere was electric. Suddenly, DC took the mic and declared, "You know, I've got a brother in the lightweight division. Trust me, winning the belt from him isn't a walk in the park!"
For anyone in the know, it was clear who DC meant—his brother, the legendary Xiaoying Maha.
With confidence brimming, Ye Chen responded, "DC, I'm a big fan and have seen many of your matches—they were spectacular! I know you understand the intricacies of UFC and mixed martial arts. However, what you witnessed today is just my opening act. I still have plenty of tricks up my sleeve, and I can't wait to face off against the Eagles players."
He seized the mic again, addressing his fans, "Boxing fans in Daxia, it's exhilarating to have my first match with you. You doubted me before the bout, but just look at what happened… I promise, this is only the beginning. One day, I will return with that coveted men's gold belt!"
With that, he made his exit from the ring, leaving the crowd in a frenzy.
"He's got the looks, and he can fight! A true gem from China!"
"Talk about confidence! Does he really think he can take on the Eagles?"
"Such brashness! A few interviews won't make him a star. He better leave a lasting impression!"
"This ticket has paid off, totally worth it to support Ye Chen!"
"He can talk, he's got skills, and he's handsome... Count me in as a fan!"
But Ye Chen wasn't finished yet. He stuck around to soak in more matches, seeking to replicate the skills of the best fighters to fuel his growth.
Yet, it proved to be more challenging than he anticipated.
Copying wasn't just about observation or mere contact; it required interaction to grasp the essence of another fighter's technique fully.
For instance, being Lin Long's sparring partner or facing off against Li Zhengyong would allow for effective simulation.
He even attempted to mimic the way DC interviewed him but struck out again. Learning DC's elite-level wrestling could immensely benefit him.
---
The following day, Ye Chen received a message from the UFC inviting him to the Tiandu Hotel. Word had it he earned a bonus from the previous night's fight.
Upon arrival, two beaming faces greeted him—Dai Na and Logan. Their warmth was undeniable.
"Here's your reward from the match!" Dai Na wasted no time, slapping two stacks of cash in front of him.
The income structure for UFC fighters was clear. They earned an appearance fee, a bonus for winning, and a shot at additional sponsorship perks.
For lower-tier fighters like Ye Chen, the typical appearance fee was just $10,000. And yes, he was rewarded with a winning bonus too.
Many claimed the UFC exploited its fighters, especially when losses only netted the appearance fee and a few sponsorship dollars that were spread thin among all players.
Ye Chen pocketed the $20,000, feeling more than a little annoyed. "As a substitute, shouldn't I be entitled to a bonus?"
Despite the quick victory, he found it a bit frustrating to earn $20,000 in a mere ten seconds.
"That's how it's supposed to work," Dai Na nodded, and Logan added, "We believe in you. After last night, your fanbase has soared to over 70,000. We'd love to see you officially join the UFC."
Joy swelled inside him—this was his dream come true. But he played it cool. "If I join, the bonuses come to me, correct?"
It might have seemed crass, but without money, few would risk their lives in this brutal sport.
"Absolutely," Dana replied, sliding over $53,500. "$50,000 is your bonus, and $3,500 is your sponsorship cut. If you sign with us, all of this is yours."
Ye Chen mulled it over. "I need to see the contract first."
Dana, the mastermind who turned the nearly bankrupt UFC into a billion-dollar brand, quickly unveiled the paperwork.
As Ye Chen perused the contract, he noted the terms: $30,000 per appearance for five fights. The details, while complex, were satisfactory.
But five fights? "Let's amend that to three. After three fights, if I haven't proven my worth, you can resign me at the same rate or drop me entirely."
"Deal!" Dana and Logan burst into laughter.
Ye Chen couldn't help but blink. Was this really happening? 🌟