[Copy of Connor's technical system, please select.]
[One: Boxing skills.]
[Two: Leg skills.]
[Three: Anti-fall.]
[Four: The explosive power of heavy punches.]
[Five: Hype education ability.]
Ye Chen: ???
During the interview, the crowd cheered for Ye Chen. A familiar voice broke the silence in Ye Chen's mind.
Of course, he didn't need legwork. Was the anti-fall of mouth gun a joke? The ability to hype is something many players desire.
Despite facing criticisms, he has emerged as the number one superstar. Others, like Covington, try to imitate him.
A pure and dedicated Chinese fighter, how did he amass millions of fans even after being trolled or attacked? It partially stems from his fighting style. Zui Pao was known for ending fights swiftly and holds the title of a double champion—something Covington lacks.
However, Ye Chen has no intention of adopting Covington's hype tactics; he prefers to be himself. After a brief moment of contemplation between boxing skills and abilities, he chose boxing without hesitation.
It's hard to know how crucial the mouth gun's punches truly are. What makes him powerful is his versatility and precision in boxing. No matter how hard one strikes, if the opponent isn't hit, it's pointless.
Excitement surged through him; it felt better than winning a million dollars. Integrating Connor's boxing, Gage's low sweeps, and Salukian's grappling left him eager to face his next opponent.
DC asked, "You've likely become a superstar among active fighters, just behind Connor. Did you ever imagine you'd gain such popularity so quickly after your first battle?"
To be honest, Ye Chen had thought about it often. When he was a sparring partner, he fantasized about becoming a world-class fighting superstar, making money, and improving his family's life.
However, he responded, "My focus has always been on stepping into the ring, finishing my opponents in creative ways, delivering thrilling matches, and chasing championship honors. Islam, I know you're watching..."
In the end, he punched the camera, signaling the interview's conclusion. When he turned around, Catwoman was gone.
Ye Chen felt puzzled. Was it true that a dragon had seen its beginning but not its end—was she like a real-life Cinderella who had to leave on cue?
But now wasn't the time for that. Amid the cheers of fans, he exited the stage.
Backstage, he found a crowd of reporters, media personnel, and professional fighters.
Jagged Blood, Wu Siman, and other notable fighters were present. Superstars like the Governor, Rambo, and Johnson came to watch the game. Dana wouldn't miss this chance for some publicity.
Ye Chen turned on various photo modes—not for his own sake, but because everyone wanted a photo with him. In the entertainment industry, these individuals were idols; in the fighting world, they were fans.
Last night, particularly, Johnson and others drew profits from Ye Chen's rise. "You're the most formidable fighter I've seen besides Jack Long. I'm optimistic about your future and hope you become a champion one day..." Rambo said.
"Thank you! I've enjoyed your movies since I was a child. I hope you create more incredible works." Ye Chen replied, aware of Jack Long's immense influence.
Rambo acknowledged Ye Chen as the strongest Daxia fighter after Jack Long. He understood Rambo was referencing influence in their respective fields, as few would dare call themselves a superstar alongside Jack Long.
Ye Chen had a long way to go, needing to secure some honors, especially that coveted gold belt held by the undefeated Eagles.
Rambo proposed, "I'm planning a new movie soon. Interested in a role?"
Surprised, Ye Chen replied, "Sure, I'll think about it..."
Ali rolled his eyes nearby, realizing it was the same old line. Rambo, unaware, thought Ye Chen was genuinely enthusiastic. In reality, Ye Chen felt such roles were mere cameos, usually featuring in black-and-white themes—boring. He preferred boxing.
Soon, the Governor and others joined him for photos.
The next morning, Ye Chen woke up past ten—a result of staying up late. Dana called to deliver some good news, insisting on a discussion about life and death.
Weighing his options, Ye Chen decided to meet in person—it was inconvenient having his own hotel, and he wondered what discussions awaited. Soon after, Dana's vehicle picked him up.
In the meeting room, six or seven people awaited him, all well-dressed and stern. Ye Chen recognized only one among them.
"Ye Chen, allow me to introduce you to the company directors."
The atmosphere felt ominous; it was no surprise given Ye Chen's newfound popularity as a cash cow.
After introductions, Dana wasted no time and slid a document before Ye Chen. "Estimated income from this PPV and broadcast rights is around 140 million dollars—still preliminary. It usually edges higher post-calculation."
Ye Chen raised his eyebrows, hiding his excitement behind a slight smile. He hadn't anticipated such a figure.
The directors seemed puzzled about Ye Chen's reaction—he wasn't what they expected. Typically, fighters aren't wealthy; Connor had a plumber's past, and Chima hailed from war-torn origins.
Upon hearing of his ten-million-plus commission, their lack of excitement confused them. What was up with Ye Chen? Even during mentions of high earnings, he barely reacted.
Yet inside, he felt ecstatic, knowing this sum could secure his future, allowing him to enjoy life comfortably.
Dana then continued, "Your commission is conservatively estimated at 14 million dollars. However, it won't be available now; it will take time to finalize. But your appearance fees, bonuses, and sponsorships have already landed in your account—totaling 1,555,000 dollars."
Ye Chen was surprised. He'd expected a million in appearance fees and bonuses, so this exceeding his expectation was significant.
Yet he also felt he deserved it, as his performance had catalyzed a surge in PPV sales, outpacing past records between Connor and Khabib. His lower appearance fee had been a setback from Dana's side.
Setting down the document, he noted everyone's stares. "It truly exceeded my expectations," he said.
Dana and the directors exchanged glances, confused. Their expectations had clearly been misconstrued. Typically, fighters react with thrill at such news, especially when discussing multimillion-dollar figures.
Ye Chen then realized they didn't understand his real focus. While internally ecstatic, he perceived other motives behind their meeting—not just a revenue briefing.
Before he could voice this, Dana took a breath and spoke, "We've only signed you for three bouts, and now that your last contract has ended, we need to prepare a new one. Rest assured, this contract will be tailored for you and will differ from the last."
So, they were pushing a contract renewal. Ye Chen was caught off guard; he had just completed the last bout of his second run. Without an agent or team, he felt vulnerable in negotiations.
At this moment, a younger director, Tom, spoke up. "Ye Chen, I've been following your every match. Your potential is extraordinary. We aim to elevate you to the level of a second Conor. Imagine tenfold earnings, worldwide sensationalism, and your name etched in Fighting History."
Tom's conviction resonated. While Ye Chen may not fully agree, he saw value in the chances UFC could afford him.
However, Dana presented the new contract. After a quick glance, Ye Chen noticed the absence of appearance fee clauses.
"The previous contract's terms no longer apply. We'll negotiate these specifics before each game from now on. This document is solely a renewal; all you need is your signature."
Ye Chen shook his head. "Three contracts is sufficient; let's hold it at that."
Although uncertain about this strategy, signing fewer contracts seemed beneficial. If all went well, renewal after three games looked promising.
The UFC was eager to lock him into longer commitments due to his rising popularity. After all, UFC would suffer a loss if Ye Chen fought just three times and then left.
Ye Chen understood the UFC's rationale but wasn't looking to exit anytime soon, so settling on five games felt reasonable.
While this arrangement may not have aligned with Dana's expectations, both parties found relief in its resolution.
With glasses of red wine flowing and cigars in hand, Tom continued, "Feel free to reach out if any questions arise. As your fan, I'll assist you."
Ye Chen offered a polite acknowledgment, knowing such promises were more courteous than genuine.
Dana then urged, "Let us know your next fight preference; we'll arrange everything. You're in high demand—timing is crucial."
Reflecting, Ye Chen considered the influx of challenge calls circulating online. He desired a bout with Qima, but given his current rank and focus on lightweight, this wasn't the time.
Additionally, Inna wouldn't permit it. Losing two emerging stars would be inconvenient for UFC management.
"Diamond seems to have undergone surgery recently; I'm uncertain how long his recovery will take. Oliveira is ranked No. 1 right now. If I defeat him, I'd undoubtedly become a championship contender."
"Oliveira?"Everyone frowned at the mention.
While he had demonstrated genius-level potential, winning many unlikely fights and boasting a terrifying submission rate, losing to him could plummet Ye Chen's value in the commercial market.
Dana shared his concern: "You're sure about this? Even after Islam defeated him, Oliveira remains formidable. Very few can take him down in the lightweight category."
The other directors echoed their doubts. Connor had lost; it wouldn't create a significant issue. But Ye Chen had never tasted defeat—this was critical, considering his rise.
Ye Chen replied, "Trust me on this. An undefeated fighter can feel invincible, but losing reveals technical flaws. If he doesn't change much, he'll replicate the same mistakes."
Everyone paused; Ye Chen's logic resonated.
In Oliveira's match against Makhachev, many assumed Makhachev and Khabib's pre-fight statements were mere bravado, yet they proved prophetic.
"So, let's arrange Oliveira. I require a jiu-jitsu master." Ye Chen asserted confidently.
Why? He needed Oliveira's jiu-jitsu. While combating Makhachev, he recognized he still faced considerable deficits.
Leaving aside wrestling and ground control, overcoming natural talent and years of dedicated training wasn't feasible.
Even with Salukian's wrestling and grappling knowledge, he wouldn't match Makhachev's prowess.
What he lacked was high-level jiu-jitsu. Melding Salukian's wrestling with Oliveira's jiu-jitsu, combined with his existing striking system, would be more than enough for competing against Makhachev.
He had recognized this after absorbing Connor's boxing insights the previous night.
He hadn't fought Makhachev before Connor; the chances of losing would have been too high. Now he craved expertise from diverse masters to enhance his skill set.
Dana confirmed, "If you are sure, we will start planning for Oliveira."
Standing up, Ye Chen raised his glass, "Arrange it. I'm prepared to take on the challenge."