**Live Commentary**
As the atmosphere crackled with anticipation, DC couldn't help but express his astonishment: "I wonder if any of you recall the electrifying face-off between Ye Chen and Salujian. Back then, many speculated that Ye Chen's victory was merely a stroke of luck, a fleeting opportunity, while Salujian carelessly underestimated his adversary. However, it's now crystal clear that Ye Chen possesses ground fighting skills that rival those of Salujian. Have you seen his mastery in controlling the ground? Every move he makes is meticulously executed."
Logan chimed in, adding: "Ground control may lack the immediate visual appeal of standing exchanges or the deadly allure of submission attempts, but it's akin to solving a complex puzzle, step by step. Every move must be executed flawlessly and in perfect sequence, for any mistake could disrupt the control entirely. Ye Chen has truly emerged as a calm yet formidable killer within that ring."
Logan's commentary shifted the perceptions of many around him. Once viewed as a reckless performer, merely seeking the limelight, now more and more individuals recognized Ye Chen's strategic brilliance. Previously, many had misguidedly characterized him as impulsive and erratic, caught up in flamboyant displays that risked his standing in the ring. They pointed to Bobby Green's unchecked head flick during a match, Chandler's crafty hook kicks, or Gage's sneaky close-range confrontations as evidence of Ye Chen's purported recklessness. A tsunami of doubt built around Ye Chen, leading them to fear that he was on the brink of a daunting downfall.
Yet, the professional commentators offered a contrasting assessment. One particular moment resonated clearly: as Ye Chen seamlessly transitioned from a compromised position, suddenly reversing the advantage, Connor found himself akin to a zebra ensnared by a Nile crocodile—struggling but ultimately powerless against the onslaught.
"He's back up!" exclaimed the commentators in unison. "What just happened?"
In a stunning display, Ye Chen sprung back to his feet with more than forty seconds left in the round. Typically, fighters re-enter the standing position only upon the bell's signal, preparing for a flurry of last-minute strikes to capitalize on their opponent's vulnerabilities before the round closes.
But Ye Chen had an alternative strategy in mind. His intention was clear: further deplete Connor's stamina. Predictably, the moment Ye Chen regained his feet, Connor attempted to scramble up as well, his experienced coaching staff urging him with concern: "Connor, stay cautious! He might be looking for a knockout; guard your head!"
Connor, no fool, complied, but as soon as he stood, still adjusting his posture, Ye Chen struck like a swift cheetah pouncing on its prey.
"Bang!" The impact resonated through the arena. Connor collided with the cage, the sheer force pinning him against the mesh, yet Ye Chen refrained from forcing him down immediately. Instead, he anticipated Connor's defensive maneuvers.
Sure enough, Connor employed the standard anti-fall technique, leaning against the cage to prevent Ye Chen from securing him. Despite having escaped TKO moments before, his energy was depleted, physical state deteriorating with blood streaking his face and dizziness clouding his senses. He exerted every ounce of his strength to avoid being taken back to the ground.
The audience, puzzled, questioned Ye Chen's motives. Why sacrifice opportunity for a flashy performance? A luxury fit for the larger-than-life settings of a lavish living room and the watchful eye of Xiaoying and his entourage. With their hearts pounding, the team's focus sharpened as they absorbed the live broadcast in tense silence, aware that this match demanded undivided attention.
Xiaoying, usually a proponent of rest, was captivated tonight—his determination to witness Ye Chen's progress left the late hour insignificant. "Ye Chen isn't the reckless individual some believe him to be," he noted thoughtfully as he handed the tablet to Makhachev beside him. "His followers have surged—over twelve million?!" Makhachev nearly shouted in disbelief, recognizing the impact of this display.
At that moment, reality shifted; Ye Chen's fanbase ballooned, rising from a modest four million to a staggering twelve million, all before the fight had concluded. This unprecedented trajectory paralleled the explosive growth seen with Little Eagle, shading everything in the fight world. Yet here stood Ye Chen, drawing this immense following while the fight raged on.
As spectators witnessed Ye Chen throw Connor back into the fight, Xiaoying observed, "Incredible tactics! He's not only staying true to his five-round promise but is also strategically draining Connor's resources."
The somber acknowledgment hung heavy in the air—Ye Chen was a calculated warrior; his true potential remained shrouded in mystery, leaving both competitors and analysts alike vexed as to just how high he could soar.
In a world brimming with pressure, an unyielding intensity settled upon Connor as he found himself pinned against the cage, held captive by both Ye Chen's skills and his resolute will. Desperation set in as he fought against the inevitable, blood trailing down his chin, a symbolic representation of the relentless battle that had unfolded.
Finally, as the round bell sounded, Ye Chen rose to his feet, grinning at the spent Connor. "See you later." To this, Connor, despite his struggles, raised his hands in a semblance of acknowledgment; a warrior's pride refusing to wilt, stubbornly maintaining composure amidst the chaos.
The time seemed to blur as support flooded in for both fighters, especially for Ye Chen, whose corner was quickly alive with activity. Catwoman sprang into action, towel and ice pack in hand, a gleam of determination lighting her eyes as she hurried to aid him.
"What brings you here?" Ye Chen marveled, glancing around as if surprised by her presence. She swiftly gestured towards the staff member who had assisted him earlier.
With an appreciative nod, Ye Chen accepted the water as she delicately wiped the sweat from his brow. "Are you feeling alright? Did you sustain any injuries?" Her concern wrapped around him like a soothing balm, even as she attempted to decipher the proper use of the ice pack.
"I think you're becoming quite adept," he teased, hinting that perhaps she'd want to partner with him more seriously. But as for whether Ye Chen fully realized the implications of his words—only he could say.
Catwoman chuckled, tossing a glance in his direction, "Do you think I'm cheap? I'm quite the investment!"
Their banter played out amidst the intensity, a humorous interlude that reminded them of their shared moments, even as the rounds continued to unfold.
Round five approached ominously after the punishing exchanges of earlier rounds had chipped away at Connor's resolve. The fatigue was palpable, and with it came a gradual metamorphosis—the audience was witness to an unmatched spectacle as Ye Chen refined his strategy, opting to conserve energy for decisive blows.
As the final round commenced, attention shifted again. Ye Chen clapped his hands, feigning movement before landing precise strikes that tested the limits of Connor's defenses. The crowd roared, urging him on, while the refrains of support cascaded through the audience.
Connor, now worn and lacking the vigor he once possessed, could respond only with defensive positions; the fight had morphed into an unexpected exhibition. With each energy-sapping maneuver, the stakes of the encounter shifted—Ye Chen masterfully danced the line between dominance and browser, entertaining yet subdued.
As appeals from the crowd swelled, it was clear—Ye Chen's masterclass in control, entertainment, and strategy had turned this match into more than just a fight of fists. It had become a vivid tapestry of human tenacity and will, underlining the bonds forged amidst competition, camaraderie, and a fervent pursuit of greatness.
The roaring audience couldn't imagine the quiet drama unfolding behind the scenes. As the tension mounted and the clock ticked down, the final horns of the fight stood awaited, echoing resilience and valor as they approached the finish line.