The arena hushed, a ripple of anticipation spreading through the crowd.
Max and Ronny stood in the center, their gloves still on, sweat dripping down their battered faces.
The referee held each man by the wrist, keeping them steady.
Behind them, Duece Buffer straightened his tie, microphone in hand. He drew in a deep breath, his booming voice carrying over the roar of the arena.
"Ladies and gentlemen… after three rounds of absolute war, we go to the judges' scorecards for a decision."
The crowd roared, then fell quiet again, waiting.
Judge one handed in his card. "Judge number one scores the fight… 29–28, Taylor."
A huge cheer erupted from one side of the arena, Max's supporters on their feet. Max himself nodded once, his eyes locked on the floor, his chest rising and falling hard.
Duece continued, his voice echoing. "Judge number two scores the fight… 29–28, McGregor."
