Lena stood a few feet away, her arms crossed, a contemplative look on her face. "This isn't just another tournament, Jack. Every one of these fighters earned their spot here. Some of them have been training their whole lives for this moment. It's going to take everything you've got—and then some—to make it to the top."
Jack turned to her, his expression steady. "That's the plan, Lena. You don't have to remind me."
Ruby nudged him. "But you could've gotten an easier draw. Look at your first opponent—Lucas 'Iron Will' Graves. That guy's ranked 35th in the world. No joke."
Jack shrugged, his lips curling into a confident smile. "Rankings don't mean a damn thing in the ring. You know that."
The announcement ceremony buzzed with energy. Dozens of reporters lined the red carpet leading to the main arena, cameras flashing as fighters arrived one by one. The audience was already filling the stands, their chatter echoing through the massive venue.
