Ye Chen vs. Makhachev.
The moment the match was officially announced, MMA fans around the world erupted in excitement. The long-awaited showdown between the Eagles had finally arrived. With an unstoppable momentum and an impressive winning streak, Daxia Terminator Ye Chen, the biggest dark horse in the fight world over the past 22 years, has a shot at victory. Yet, Makhachev, the top representative of the Hawks after Khabib, boasts an impressive record of 23 wins and just one loss. Will Makhachev, who has achieved eleven consecutive wins in the UFC lightweight division and swiftly dispatched the submission king in two rounds, continue his winning ways?
Many analysts and fans alike believe that Makhachev's sole defeat stemmed from youth and careless play, where he pursued his opponent recklessly, leading to a sudden chin-shot that cost him an undefeated streak. Had Makhachev shown a more stable performance at that moment, his record would mirror the unblemished 29-0 of Kitty Hawk, a feat within reach should he maintain his dominance. Indeed, Makhachev is currently the lightweight world champion—truly the embodiment of a versatile warrior skilled in wrestling, combat sambo, judo, jiu-jitsu, and stand-up striking.
After his decisive victory over Oliveira, despair swept through the ranks of MMA professionals and fans. One word resonated broadly: "Invincible."
For an organization, an unbeatable champion is an asset; however, it differs if such a champion can also sell tickets, much like Conor or Ye Chen. An invincible champion dissuades challengers, leading audiences to perceive that opportunities for excitement are limited. How can tickets sell if everyone knows the outcome? Even fighters like Conor and Ye Chen, who generate substantial revenue, could face diminishing returns if they remain unchallenged. After all, if it's a sure victory, what's left to inspire interest?
Thus, the UFC proactively creates super fights to elevate and invigorate the sport. Within the realms of martial arts, boxing and kickboxing frequently witness fighters move between weight classes to seek challenges when no contenders remain. Take, for example, the Black Dragon, a fighter who cleared his weight class and subsequently had to face challenges in a higher division—only to later defend his title against less formidable opponents. Yet, with each passing fight, his allure waned.
Dana White, recognizing the risks of declining interest, promptly hired a kickboxing double champion to take on the Black Dragon, which ultimately led to his downfall. Makhachev may follow a similar trajectory: if he defends his title too many times without worthy challengers, the UFC may concoct scenarios to mitigate the inevitable decline in excitement.
Fortuitously, Ye Chen has emerged as a formidable dark horse. However, Ye Chen privately acknowledges that, should he dominate the scene, his own ticket-selling potential may wane. It is in Dana's interest to ensure that Ye Chen encounters formidable opponents—hiring top experts globally to devise strategies to defeat him.
This isn't a critique of the UFC; merely an acknowledgment of how ruthless business can be in sports. Even Connor, once dominant and prosperous, faces challenges as fans increasingly see him being considered as a stepping stone for fighters like Ye Chen.
In the meantime, Ye Chen occupies his days in the villa, consuming videos in leisure, enjoying his downtime alongside Catwoman, who shares the struggle of being public figures limiting their outdoor encounters. They settle for private retreats occasionally, clinging to those moments of normalcy.
Suddenly, feeling a chill on his neck, he looks up to find Catwoman in an unconventional position, her grip asserting dominance in a playful manner.
"After how many times must I remind you about the toilet seat?" she quipped, a smirk breaking her otherwise serious demeanor.
Placing aside his tablet, Ye Chen gently embraced her, a kiss on the tip of her nose, before effortlessly flipping her around, catching her by surprise.
In return, Catwoman playfully teased, "You use this trick every time; my superiority remains intact!"
"Proof? I'm an open book for you to conquer whenever you wish," Ye Chen responded, as the teasing escalated playfully between them.
Dismissing further banter, Catwoman declared lunch was a priority and fled from the moment. Ye Chen chuckled, genuinely enjoying this peaceful chapter of his life.
Reflecting on recent evaluations, he understood the stakes following his last fight with Oliveira nearly a month prior. While physical training was less frequent, theoretical practice allowed him time to strategize on paper for victories against his opponents. He now possessed a near-guaranteed chance of defeating Oliveira in the first round, having integrated elements of his jiu-jitsu alongside his striking techniques. Current simulations indicate he could swiftly dismiss not just Oliveira but rival fighters like Gaethje and Chandler in mere minutes.
However, he identified Burns and Sarujian as formidable as they proved challenging in one-round simulations, particularly due to Burns' unparalleled ground defense. A champion in jiu-jitsu, his prowess confounds even the most experienced competitors.
Amidst all this, a recent video caught his interest. It featured Khabib and discussed upcoming match tactics regarding Makhachev's confrontation with Ye Chen. The video, barely three hours old, had already amasses over 300,000 views.
The reporter initiated the conversation, "Khabib, as Islam's coach, you must have studied Ye Chen closely. What tactical shifts are you anticipating?"
Khabib, visibly contemplative, replied, "Are you asking me to forecast the outcome of the fight?"
"Yes," the reporter confirmed.
After a thoughtful pause, Khabib confidently declared, "We will adjust our tactics as needed. Simply put, Islam will win. I predict he'll take him down early and dominate, wearing him down until we either secure a finish in the second round or capitalize on a standing opportunity in the final round."
The reporter sought further insight, but Khabib added, "Last time I labeled Islam victoriously, people ridiculed my confidence. But what happened? He not only triumphantly defeated Oliveira; he also secured the top P4P ranking. Islam represents the pinnacle of this sport, and while Ye Chen is exceptional, we are all driven by honor and championship titles. I have immense respect for him, yet we are here to reclaim that championship."
Comments flooded in support and criticism alike. While some ardently hoped for Ye Chen's victory, others dismissed Khabib's claims. The community buzzed with anticipation surrounding the potential clash of titans.
Reflecting on the upcoming battle, Ye Chen brushed off doubt and emerged focused on his training, eager for what lay ahead.
Despite the continuous verbal quarreling with Makhachev, there was an air of strategy amidst the banter. Ye Chen was acutely aware that his combat strategies were evolving, and he was prepared to surprise Makhachev in the ring.
Yet the anticipation of Khabib's potential return loomed in the background, feeding the fire of rivalry and motivation.
As the day to depart for Abezabi approached, Ye Chen prepared, understanding the importance of acclimatizing to a new environment ahead of the fight. Catwoman, however, couldn't accompany him due to work obligations, but vowed to join him as soon as possible.
Ye Chen understood her frustration and comforted her before making his way to the airport. As they parted, Catwoman playfully warned him of the temptations awaiting him abroad, her light-heartedness easing the tension of their professional obligations.
Abe Zabi awaited him—a hub of opulence and affluence. Known for its excess, it thrived financially, backing events like the UFC in their ventures. Ye Chen had never visited a location with such financial clout.
On arrival, an elaborate scene unfolded before him. A convoy of luxury vehicles awaited on the tarmac, their white-robed occupants exuding authority.
"Meet Prince Ha Mudan," Dana clarified, indicating his wealth, "One of our key sponsors behind the event."
With that, Dana dashed ahead, extending greetings, though the prince's entourage remained stoic.
Such a dramatic shift from Dana's typical demeanor showcased the influence of wealth across cultures—a reminder that affluence commands respect universally. These individuals, while perhaps absent from global wealth rankings, exhibited an influence that could eclipse many multimillionaires reliant on liquidity in their portfolios.
Ye Chen was ready; the fight of his life awaited him.