26 For The First Time in History, the Entire Audience Was Left in Shock

Sarugian is making quite a name for himself, holding strong at the ninth rank. But don't let that ranking fool you; his abilities are off the charts. The difference in skill between him and Ye Chen's previous opponents is monumental. It's as if they were playing in different leagues entirely.

Ye Chen hesitated, his confidence wavering. Facing Sarugian, a fighter whose strength could easily put him in the top five—if not higher—was a daunting challenge. In fact, half a year ago, he made an audacious prediction: Mahar would dethrone Oliveira and claim the championship title. Back then, when Oliveira was basking in the spotlight of his popularity, Ye Chen's words seemed like a wild jest. Now, looking back, they felt almost prophetic.

Ye Chen even took a step further, boldly stating he wasn't afraid to grapple on the ground with Oliveira, illustrating just how potent his skills truly were. In many ways, standing toe-to-toe with Sarugian, who is now a top contender, felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Right now, Ye Chen was bubbling with excitement at the thought of stepping onto that stage. With the famous Night Demon, currently sitting at rank fifteen, everyone was itching to challenge Connor, the fourteen-year-old sensation. Both fighters brought a thrill to the ring, turning every match into an electrifying showdown that left fans on the edge of their seats.

As he glanced around, he caught sight of the co-main event nearing its end. Anxiety gnawed at him, propelling him to seek out Dana, the matchmaker. Just as luck would have it, he spotted Dana storming backstage, looking as furious as ever. But in his haste, Dana didn't even seem to notice Ye Chen. His opportunity was slipping away.

"I'd be willing to step in if Sarugian is up for it," he called out, seizing the moment.

At that instant, Dana's hurried pace ground to a halt. He turned, his eyes widening with surprise as he recognized Ye Chen. "Ye Chen! When did you get here? Why didn't I see you until now? Are you really ready to fight?"

Ye Chen met his gaze, nodding firmly. "Yes, but only if Sarugian is willing to take me on."

As he spoke, his mind was racing with strategies and tactics. This fight was coming together too quickly for him to rehearse fully, so he would have to rely on his intuition and previous encounters with Sarugian to navigate this daunting match-up.

"Great! I'll reach out to Sarugian right away," Dana replied, a spark of admiration in his voice. "You're incredible for stepping up like this, Ye Chen. I'll make sure to remember this."

Before he could say another word, Dana dashed off, excitement and urgency propelling him forward. A noteworthy bonus was on the horizon for Ye Chen, and he had no doubt that it would be validated after the last battle. The energy in the arena suggested everything he needed would fall into place.

Still, Ye Chen knew that earning Dana's gratitude was secondary to the real prize: winning fights. Engagement with a successful but emotionally detached person was the last thing on his mind.

Minutes ticked by without an update, and the announcer's voice cut through the chatter of the audience, announcing a twist that raised the stakes even higher.

"We regret to inform you that Dan Hook, one of our toughest fighters, suffered a serious injury and has been rushed to the hospital. However, we are excited to introduce a new substitute opponent! Please bear with us as the Mortal Death showdown continues as planned!"

As the commentator read the news, visuals of Dan Hook's unfortunate accident flashed across the big screen—the devastating injury, the medical team carrying him away. The atmosphere shifted, murmurs of disappointment rippling through the crowd. Dan Hook had a cult following, revered for his grueling style and remarkable resilience. Audience members voiced their frustration.

"What's going on with the UFC today? The main event has pulled out, and now the co-main event is sidelined too! Can't they keep track of the fighters' health?"

"Just let someone else step in. Dan Hooker barely stood a chance against Mahar, and Sarugian? He's on a different plane."

"I don't want to see Dan Hook battered yet again. Let's just give Sarugian some fresh meat to feast on."

Audience opinions clashed as they questioned the matchmaking decisions. Whispers circulated about unknown odds and bets on Sarugian's success in the ring.

"Look at the big screen!" someone exclaimed, their voice dripping with disbelief.

"Isn't that Ye Chen, the Terminator, who just wrapped up a fight?"

Gasps filled the arena. Two fights in one night—this was unprecedented!

"Is this real? What a spectacle! Now everyone wants to know who we should back in this epic clash!"

In the domestic broadcast booth, commentators were equally stunned.

"Did you see that? Ye Chen is set to fight again! This is historic!" one exclaimed, struggling to contain his excitement.

"I've never witnessed anything like this before! He barely broke a sweat in his last match, but facing Sarugian? You know he's a wrestler aiming for the title," another chimed in, equally perplexed.

Their faces were a blend of amazement and confusion. The fate of the match hung in the balance, and fans were left breathless with anticipation for what was to come next.