In this moment of intense competition, viewers all around the world were taken aback. The scene that had just unfolded was nothing short of electrifying. Fortunately for the audience, the blow didn't connect. Had it done so, this pay-per-view event would have felt like a waste, ending almost before it had really begun.
Ye Chen is far from superhuman. His nerves were so frayed at that instant that he felt as though he might just keel over. With this in mind, he knew he had to recalibrate; he opted not to immediately pursue his opponent but instead attempted a forward kick. If that kick managed to knock Chimaev out or throw him off balance, then he would seize the opportunity to advance.
A moment ago, Ye Chen had successfully avoided Chimaev's onslaught. Luck played a part, yes, but more importantly, he had anticipated Chimaev's tactical shift and had adjusted accordingly. Without that adjustment, there would have been no escaping such a devastating move. Chimaev's technique was particularly ruthless, as everyone believed he would initiate a feint to catch Ye Chen off guard before unleashing a powerful strike. Instead, he had chosen to feint and dive straight in with a punch.
Normally, it would have been difficult for Chimaev to react to such a maneuver, but it was clear he had practiced this move exhaustively in preparation for the fight, displaying an impressive level of fluidity. If Burns had approached the match in a similar manner, he likely would have bested Chimaev right from the outset.
Amidst the tension, a sharp sound rang out: Chimaev's coach slapped the edge of the ring in frustration. The sense of urgency was palpable, "Hamza, don't rush it. Take a moment to adjust your tactics and regain your calm." His coach's reminder resonated, knowing that if Chimaev couldn't overcome his opponent quickly, the danger of losing control and rhythm was substantial.
Back in the ring, Ye Chen seized the opportunity to re-engage. As Chimaev leapt back with a quick retreat, Ye Chen delivered a low kick aimed at the inner calf of Chimaev's front leg. Under normal circumstances, this move would cripple an average fighter, but Chimaev's extensive wrestling background ensured he maintained excellent control of his center of gravity. He stumbled back, but avoided being taken down.
Ye Chen had anticipated further move possibilities from his low kick and had a backup plan at the ready. The moment Chimaev lost his balance, he lunged forward to connect with Chimaev's bald head. This head-pressing tactic was a staple in wrestling, designed to disrupt an opponent's balance. The flick of his head sent Chimaev forward in an instant.
"Crack!" The sound echoed in the air, a clean hit, though not quite where Ye Chen had aimed. Instead of landing a punch directly to Chimaev's chin, he struck the shoulder. It wasn't a case of imprecision; Chimaev's wrestler's instinct kicked in, and he seized the opportunity to wrap his arms around Ye Chen's legs.
Without pausing, Ye Chen instinctively pressed back on his hips, managing to retreat just as Chimaev aimed to execute a takedown. Chimaev's quick reflexes allowed him to rise, immediately clasping Ye Chen's waist, effectively limiting his movements and options.
Ye Chen recognized this tactic all too well; his anticipation stemmed from an understanding of the game. While Chimaev was impressive in his progression, his coaching team would never let him face the standing capabilities of Ye Chen head-on. Anyone well-versed in the league could see Ye Chen held the title of the best standing fighter.
Ye Chen pressed Chimaev's bald head down with his weight. Sadly, with Chimaev gripping his waistband, Ye Chen could only rely on pushing off the mat for leverage while navigating left and right. As he turned his body, he gained the potential to escape Chimaev's grasp. Even if immediate freedom wasn't attained, each motion would place an exhausting burden on Chimaev's endurance.
This strategy was crucial when facing elite opponents; one must capitalize on every chance to drain their energy. Expecting to circle around and land multiple blows would be overly optimistic.
Soon enough, he felt Chimaev's grip loosen. Seizing this moment, Ye Chen aimed to claim one of Chimaev's ankles, identifying it as a weakness in Chimaev's support structure. If he could secure that grip, it would compromise Chimaev's balance.
Yet Chimaev was skilled enough to sense the incoming threat. Just as Ye Chen's hand closed around his ankle, Chimaev adeptly shifted his body to the right. This maneuver wasn't just defensive; it created the necessary space for him to rise.
Chimaev utilized his formidable wrestling strength to push Ye Chen up, significantly increasing pressure on Ye Chen's grip. In response, Ye Chen coupled his outside arm with a quick counter to Chimaev's ribs, positioning himself well. At this point, Chimaev's shoulders pressed against Ye Chen's waist, rendering him momentarily immobilized. However, this stance would soon fall to Chimaev's own actions, which would leave him wide open.
The moment Chimaev stood, he pushed forward with decisive intent. As Chimaev lifted, Ye Chen felt a slight slack in Chimaev's hold, granting him an opening. With skillful timing, Ye Chen twisted Chimaev to the right, striving to force him down.
Chimaev, however, exhibited remarkable stability, reaching down with his untangled right arm to capture Ye Chen's leg, attempting to outmaneuver him in one swift motion. This exchange was a stunning display, the tension thick enough to cut.
Ye Chen focused intently, assessing Chimaev's capabilities—indeed, he possessed formidable strength; it was clear why he had such explosive power. While experiencing the strain, Ye Chen knew he had to strike first. Chimaev raised his left leg, fully intending to flip Ye Chen upside down. Without a cage or supports in play, a successful lift would lead to an imminent danger.
Understanding the severe odds, Ye Chen preemptively retracted his right leg, avoiding the impending lift. He moved quickly, drawing on every ounce of power. Combining this quick retraction with the leverage of his arms under Chimaev's armpits provided a crucial escape route.
With gravity working in his favor, Ye Chen broke free from Chimaev's hold, leaving his opponent grasping at air. Chimaev responded, attempting to lock around Ye Chen's head. Yet, as Ye Chen regained freedom in his legs, hepower roared through him with renewed vigor.
Despite Chimaev's neck being under strain, Ye Chen towered above him, utilizing his height as an advantage. As the pressure mounted, Chimaev opted to release his grip, recognizing the futility of maintaining the hold. Yet this moment of respite was all Ye Chen needed; he positioned his legs strategically to hook Chimaev, preparing for the inevitable clash.
Determined to capitalize on any openings, Ye Chen was ready to sacrifice himself in a bid to overcome Chimaev. This caliber of wrestling demanded that he remain aggressive; waiting would only allow Chimaev more chances to dictate the fight.
The arena resonated with a thundering crash as both fighters collided, encapsulating the essence of this gripping contest.