The champion laughed, blocking the next punch with his forearm. "Nice try."
Both fighters were visibly exhausted, their movements slower but no less determined. Jack landed a few more jabs, but Darius countered with heavy hooks that rattled Jack's guard.
"You're tough, Jack," Darius admitted, his breath heavy. "But tough doesn't win titles."
Jack smirked through the pain. "Neither does arrogance."
With a burst of energy, Jack feinted to the right and landed a clean cross to Darius's jaw. The crowd erupted as the champion staggered, but he quickly recovered.
"You're making me work for this," Darius said, his voice laced with amusement. "I like it."
Then, with seconds left in the round, Darius stepped forward and unleashed a brutal body shot—a thunderous hook that connected with Jack's ribs.
Jack gasped, stumbling backward, his guard dropping momentarily.
