But Jack shook his head, pulling himself upright. "You didn't used to talk so much shit," he said, grinning through the pain. "Guess the upgrades came with an ego boost."
The crowd roared as the fighters clashed again, exchanging a furious combination of strikes. Phantom's punches were faster, harder, but Jack's footwork kept him just out of reach. He targeted Phantom's legs, landing sharp low kicks to weaken his base.
"Damn it, Jack!" Victor shouted, his hands gripping the cage. "You're still taking too many hits!"
Victor's mind raced back to years ago, to the days when Evan was just another fighter in the gym. Back then, he was raw talent—a relentless striker with an unshakable will. But now?
"Now he's a f*cking monster," Victor muttered under his breath.
He turned to Lena, who stood silently a few feet away.
"You've been in there with Phantom," Victor said, his tone accusatory. "What's his weakness?"
