20: Whoever Hits the Ground Will Be the Grandson

Time has a way of slipping through our fingers like sand, and before we knew it, over a month had passed. The buzz surrounding this digital competition grew to a deafening roar, capturing the attention of boxing enthusiasts across the globe. But just as excitement reached its peak, an unexpected twist rippled through the headlines—the reigning champion of the headline main event, the Light and Heavy "Strange Bird," had to retire due to a nagging shoulder injury.

Weiniao wasted no time deliberating with the UFC and made the bold decision to relinquish his championship belts. While this announcement left fans heartbroken, the sports community rallied behind him, applauding his spirit and dedication to the sport.

In a swift turn of events, the UFC announced that Lao Xie would step in to battle Ankara. Yet, Lao Xie had hoped to face the familiar Sledgehammer instead; the intensity of fighting Ankara with such little preparation loomed large. Unfortunately, as a non-champion, Lao Xie found himself without the luxury of choosing his opponent.

As a result, the headline bout was now a captivating showdown between Ankara and Sledgehammer, who had originally been vying for the chance at the championship belt. Just like that, the co-main event was elevated to the headline—a development so surreal, it felt like the plot of a wild, fantastical tale no one would dare write.

In the midst of all this, Ye Chen was set to clash with Bobby Green, another highly anticipated fight that had people talking, especially since it was taking place in Bobby's hometown of Las Vegas. The buzz surrounding it was electric, underscored by the stakes and the local pride riding on Green's performance.

Also on the card was an exciting lightweight clash in the co-main event, featuring a favorite of Ye Chen's, Saloujian, ranked ninth, who would be facing the eleventh-ranked Dan Hooker. Known for his stunning skill set derived from his Sambo background, Saloujian stormed into the UFC with a string of victories, only to face a setback in his debut against Maha, an unranked fighter at the time. Yet that harrowing bout immortalized his name in the hearts of fans; few have come this close to defeating the Eagles.

Years passed, and now at 27, Saloujian had transformed. His wrestling, ground game, and striking abilities had all sharpened, prompting many to label him a solid contender for the championship—at least a top-five fighter. Yet, despite his skill, no one had yet taken a chance on him.

"Simulating the Octagon…" Ye Chen had just finished a training session with Bobby Green at their hotel, and the man was engaging, albeit a bit combative. Nonetheless, the simulation had taken a turn for the better.

"Huh?" Ye Chen paused, surprised. In the past, he could easily trigger a successful simulation just by imagining it, but this time felt different. Curious, he checked his Simulation Space, only to be met with some alarming news: "Your number of simulated battles has reached the upper limit."

Ye Chen paused, then burst into laughter. His initial plan had been too optimistic; even if he kept up this pace, it wouldn't be long before the simulation space overflowed with 180 octagonal cages. Could you imagine? One day of sparring would equate to a year of actual combat training for his competitors—and that was when the playing field would truly shift.

With a decisive nod, he ended the session with Lin Long, realizing he had grown leaps and bounds. He could dispatch his opponents with ease now, his skills evolving daily and across all fronts.

Bobby Green's unique fighting style features a frame that can sometimes leave him open, but don't be mistaken—he's no rookie. He possesses razor-sharp accuracy and has often troubled some of the best in the division, including Fijiev, currently ranked sixth. Green relishes a good exchange and doesn't shy away from brawling, bringing a flair that often leaves the audience entertained.

As the simulated ring powered up, Bobby Green launched a quick jab, casual yet pinpoint accurate. It was a swift strike, one that caught many off guard. But Ye Chen wasn't one to back down easily. With dedication, he'd honed his defenses and strategies, studying Green's previous fights meticulously.

Just then, Ye Chen's phone vibrated, pulling his focus for a moment. He glanced at the screen.

**Catwoman:** I happened to be in Vegas and saw the promotion for the game. I hope you get beat up and cry! (adds a mischievous smiley)

Ye Chen chuckled. **Ye Chen:** Then buy Bobby Green and try it!

Their mischievous banter had become a regular thing over the past month, a testament to their growing camaraderie. While the spotlight was on fighters like Gazi and Burns, this internet personality had carved out a special space in his mind.

**Catwoman:** I don't want to buy it. I want to see you get beaten! I'll be there that day!

**Ye Chen:** Aren't you a bit too dark for a naturally pink person? If I win, you'll be stuck watching my matches forever!

**Catwoman:** Your odds are not great; you're still the underdog. No need to chase, you'll lose this time! (smiley face)

**Ye Chen:** If I lose, I'll be the first one to drag you out and give you a good beating!

The day of the weigh-in finally arrived, and Ye Chen stood valiantly, just behind Bobby Green. The atmosphere hummed with anticipation, but the weigh-in was merely the warm-up act. A tense stare-down and brief interviews would follow, ramping up the stakes.

Bobby strutted up, clad in glimmering gold chains and hands adorned with rings.

A reporter seized the moment, "Green, you're playing in your hometown, going against a popular newcomer from Daxia. Do you feel pressure?"

With a lazy grin, Green shot back, "I've seen his fights, and honestly? You're all hyping him up too much. I'm going to smash his flat face and send him for some plastic surgery."

With that, he flashed Ye Chen the middle finger, adding, "Whoever hits the ground in this match is the grandson!"

The crowd roared in response, and anticipation hung thick in the air — the clock was ticking toward an explosive clash.