Female Boxing Federation

<MuayThaiFera> It's fight night in Tokyo and the latest RISE Kickboxing show has only just started. There's a packed main card later but right now, I've got a chance to get back to winning ways after a mixed last few fights. I've been matched against a tough Mexican fighter with similar experience and she looks good in the tapes I've watched. This will be a 3 round Muay thai fight with 3 minutes per round.

<MuayThaiFera> I leave the blue corner warm up area, full of fighters getting ready for tonight's fights. There is a white haired Japanese girl getting ready to fight after my fight. Not too far from my home in Indonesia I get told to get ready. My coach places my hot pink fight poncho on and places the hood over my head. It covers my upper body down to my fight skirt. I slip on some white sliders for my ring walk.

<MuayThaiFera> I head into the corridor and make my walk to the entrance ramp, wearing my hot pink poncho, hot pink and black lined fight skirt, sky blue 8oz regulation gloves and a pink and black armband on my left arm tied around my bicep. My arms are visible either side of my silky fight poncho. I bounce a little in my sliders as I head to the curtain and get told "3... 2... 1" and get a nod. My music hits and I walk out to a decent sized little arena with around 1,500 in the audience, smoke machines either side of the ramp and strobe lights. TV cameras focus on me as I walk the catwalk style ramp which is level with the ring. I look like business with my jet black hair tied tight in a long, braided ponytail down my back, hanging down between my shoulder blades. I look a little shiny in the lights from my very light massage pre fight, almost glistening in the lights.

<MuayThaiFera>   I get to the ring by the ropes and the fight doctor puts some vaseline over my face, on my forehead and cheeks as I close my eyes. I put my arms out wide as each corner man grabs my gloves and shakes my arms out. I nod my head to my music as I slip out of my sliders. Now standing in bare feet. My feet, calves and thighs are all bare showing my glowing Asian skin tone as I slide under the bottom rope and into the ring. To a good ovation from the modest Tokyo crowd.

<MuayThaiFera> I do a lap of the ring one single arm aloft as I take in the arena. It's a good proving ground alongside some good up and coming talent. I stand in my corner still wearing my poncho, not wanting to take it off until we are both in the ring opposite each other. I lean down and stretch my calves, putting my gloves to the mat and bending my back forward to stretch my legs. I look stoic, a veteran of the kickboxing game.

<Valenzuela> Tonight, I’m stepping into the RISE Muay Thai Kickboxing ring in Tokyo, facing off against an Indonesian fighter named Fera. It’s an undercard fight, the anticipation building toward the main event, but this bout is just as intense for me. Yesterday’s weigh-in put me officially at 120 lbs, mean, lean and ready   . Now, I’m feeling the energy pulse through the arena as I prepare to enter. I’m dressed in my vibrant Mexican flag sports bra, my Muay Thai shorts a tribute to home, barefoot and grounded in the tradition of the sport . A snug white mouth guard rests against my teeth, and my black 8 oz gloves feel tight, a familiar weight as I clench my fists in anticipation. The crowd hums with excitement as I enter the ring, and across the ring, I catch my first live look at Fera, already waiting in the blue corner. She’s got that focused, intense look, her stance poised and ready, and there’s no denying she looks fierce. My eyes meet hers, and I give a slight nod, acknowledging the battle about to unfold between us. As they check me over, I feel my focus sharpening, the outside noise fading until it’s just me, my opponent, and the anticipation of that first bell. Tonight, it’s time to show Tokyo what this Mexican can bring to the ring.

<MuayThaiFera> Even though I don't harbour any hatred for my opponent, I have my game face on. My mouth almost a frown, my eyes narrow. We are gladiators in the ring and I have to get into my game. You look strong as you walk in, in your shorts and bra. Your shoulders look strong and arms toned. Your body lean and mean.

<MuayThaiFera> I take this moment to take my ring jacket off. My head coach removing it and placing a white gumsheild in my mouth. My body is revealed with my flat stomach, broad shoulders for a shorter fighter, looking strong in my skirt and bra. I hop on the balls of my bare feet and roll my neck one way then another. I look over at you, locking eyes, a blank glare between us. I nodded back when you first nodded but now, I maintain a stare. I hear the bell sound as the announcer introduces me

<MuayThaiFera> "Ladies and gentlemen this contest is in the featherweight division and will be contested under 5, 3 minute rounds. Introducing first, she is fighting out of the blue corner, weighing in at 118lbs and holding a professional record of 18 wins with 15 defeats, 1 draw. Fighting out of Jakarta, Indonesia. Fera... The Little Gypsy! Feranita!"

<MuayThaiFera> I take the moment to walk out to mid ring, I do a petite spin while bowing so I do a 360 bow. Ending at you I finish in a now and come upright facing you. I stand, looking at you, and then retreat to the safety of my corner. Placing my arms over the top rope. Maintaining eye contact.

<MuayThaiFera>    

<Valenzuela> In the ring, I feel the familiar adrenaline hum through my veins as the announcer’s voice booms through the Tokyo arena, and I know it’s time to show what I can bring. My gaze is locked on Fera, standing across from me, every bit as ready as I am. I watch Fera do her little dance around the ring, as the crowd’s cheers echo, but I’m focused solely on my opponent. The announcer’s voice echoes, hyping the crowd as he introduces me: “And now, fighting out of the red corner, weighing in at 120 pounds, with a professional record of 22 wins and 25 losses, hailing from Mexico City, Mexico… ‘La Princesa’… Valenzuela!” I do a quick turn around, staring out at the audience. The bell’s going to sound soon, and in that moment, there’s nothing else. It’s just me, Fera, and the ring. I roll my shoulders back, fix my stance, and meet her stare head-on. Tonight, this ring becomes a proving ground, and I’m here to show Tokyo what 120 pounds of pure Mexican heart can bring.

<Valenzuela> 

<MuayThaiFera> You turn and look at me. Its now the space feels like we're hemmed in. Me and you alone with the official in a slightly small ring. Not much room to move and run in here. I bounce on my toes and roll my shoulders again. I shine a little in the lights. The crowd are still warming up with this being the second fight of the night but I'm here now and I'm ready to face this opponent. She looks fierce looking at me. It's time to go meet her.

<MuayThaiFera> "Fighters to centre". I stride out, arms by my side, back up straight. There's tension between the two gladiators mid ring. The arena almost falls into a hush as all we can hear inside the ring is the padding of our bare feet on the mat as we walk towards each other. As we arrive I bow my head slightly and I stand close to you, the ref between us

<MuayThaiFera> "Please keep the punches above the belt, protect yourself at all times. Let's have a good, clean fight. Break on my command. Good luck to both corners. Touch gloves and come out fighting. Enjoy the fight". During the speech im locked onto your eyes. My gumsheild making my lips push out slightly. Clicking my neck side to side. I bow low on the touch gloves command and hold my hands up for the glove touch as I bow mid ring. My face still stoic.

<MuayThaiFera> 

<Valenzuela> As the referee’s words fade into the background, I keep my gaze locked on you, my expression blank, calm, and focused. When he suggests we touch gloves, I extend my fists with a sharp, deliberate motion, making it clear that I’m here for the fight, not the pleasantries. I skip the bow, keeping my body language cool and controlled, my eyes never leaving yours as our gloves make contact for that split second. Then, at the ref's command to return to our corners, I take a steady step back, eyes still locked, assessing every detail—the set of your shoulders, the intensity in your stance. As I reach my corner, I shift into my pre-fight rhythm. Bouncing lightly on the balls of my feet, I can feel the energy building, each movement sharpening my senses. I roll my shoulders up and down, loosening any remaining tension, feeling the weight of my gloves, the firmness of my fists. Every muscle is coiled, ready to spring into action. I throw a few quick jabs and hooks in the air, shadowboxing to keep my hands warm and my reflexes sharp. With each bounce and punch, I sink deeper into my focus, mentally blocking out the noise of the crowd, the bright lights above, even the ref’s presence. In these final seconds, it’s just you and me, and the electric anticipation of that first strike hanging in the air, ready to explode the moment the bell rings.

<MuayThaiFera> I feel the sharp push of your gloves. It's such a quick moment as you stab your gloves against mine. You stay standing as I bow. The respect is given but the touch of gloves being so brief shows it's merely following the command. I step backwards and stand in front of my corner. Padded with a blue coated pad, the neutral corners both in white in between us. I bounce high on the balls of my feet before I take a big jump, bringing my knees to my chest and then STOMPING down into the mat to make a big sound, getting myself hyped for the coming fight

<MuayThaiFera> I roll my shoulders, shake my wrists and bend my body side to side as I watch you shadow box. Cold, crisp, sharp punches into the air in front of you. My game face well in place now. This may only be the second fight on tonight's undercard but to me it's a huge fight. Both fighters with something to prove.

<MuayThaiFera> I put my gloves up and begin to bounce on my toes as we hear "round one. Fight!" *DING* and a very loud, long single claaaannngggg echoes. The gladiators are unleashed, it's time to fight!

<MuayThaiFera> I come out looking to circle, getting a feel for the ring and you. It's only a few steps to the middle to meet you as I cover the distance with a jab, trying to sting your face as I step to my left. The small ring bringing us together. The tension is high early and the TV cameras can pick up the swishing noise of bare feet brushing the mat as we move. My skirt swishes and flaps with my movement. I go for a hard right low kick into a stinging left hook trying to catch you on the end of the jaw.

<MuayThaiFera>   

<Valenzuela> Bell sounds and a tingle goes up my spine, it’s time to fight. Fera steps out of corner quick, and I come slowly, bouncing on the balls of my feet lightly, and bobbing erratically from side to side. My left foot extended and leading. She steps left and I step left to keep the circle going, and the a jab comes at my face. I’m quick to block it with my right glove, then another bit of circling. I see the swish of your skirt as we move, and hear the animated sounds of the crowd, then you launch a right kick at my leg, so I raise my leg to avoid a kick into my knee, taking the hit on my calf, forcing a grimace from me. The kick is immediately followed by a left hook towards my jaw, so I parry the hook with my right forearm, and then spring into action, leaping forward, trying a right straight punch towards your nose, a left hook at your temple that I try to swing over your right shoulder, and then as I get closer, I try a right knee strike towards your navel!

<MuayThaiFera> We join mid ring and we start our aggressive dance. We're centre of the ring. The canvas and ropes all white with the black RISE branding written on them, our colourful figures wearing pink, black, green, white and gold flashing mid ring to contrast. My skirt swaying with every minor move I make. You block the jab and as I kick, you half check, taking it on the calf. I put my weight into the hook as you parry and create a half step of space. Coming back towards me you counter with a straight punch. My eyes stay stoic although my heart races as I have to quickly spring back into southpaw to avoid the punch, as I try and switch my stance though you reap a nice hook across my temple which keeps me on the spot, my guard trying to keep my face protected as your knee like a knife is sharp. It arcs up, your foot perfectly pointed and leg clenched as your spear point knee thumps into my body. I let out an audible "hufffffff" as I bend slightly and take a step back, the knee hitting perfectly between my trunk line and sports bra into my exposed body. As I set back in orthodox I try to lift my front knee and push forward, my toes pulled right back to try and stab the ball of my foot into your naval, landing my foot downwards for an attempted right uppercut, left hook hoping to pepper your guard early.

<Valenzuela> My right straight hots only the empty air space between us as you step back from it, and as you switch your stance, my left hook reaps across your temple, my knee does the most, as I feel the impact up and down my leg. I keep my guard high, and then your leg raises quickly and comes down in an arc to push into my navel, forcing me to tighten my abs and bite into my mouth guard as the impact sends me back a couple of steps, out of range as you try to swing an uppercut towards my face. I let out a gasp, and then come after you, trying to swing a low left round house kick at the side of your right knee, hoping to disrupt your balance, or bring your attention down low, and as I bring my leg back, rather then dropping it to the ground, I raise my knee to my chest and try to flick a teep kick through the middle of your guard towards your chin, hoping to plant the ball of my foot there and show you I ain’t just a boxer,

<MuayThaiFera> My teep works and stabs but it pushes you out of my boxing range. My shots hit air as I shadow box and show some of my technique. You step right into me afterwards, not giving me time to properly set my feet as you launch into the low kick. I bring up my shin to check it. It would have been the perfect height for a strong block had you followed through. But, instead you pull it back and lift high into the air. As I'm putting my foot down, your sole invades my vision. Your foot slaps up into my jaw and knocks me back with a solid motion, jarring my head and shoving me back a step. I try to regain my composure and guard up. I look to keep us at a kicking distance and hit back with a step towards you and a right body kick trying to drive my shin into your ribs, turning my body over to make my leg like a baseball bat, trying to follow it up with a rear push kick high on the chest to push you further away and give myself a winning exchange

<Valenzuela> My teep kick snaps into your jaw and sends you backwards, looking surprised by the sudden blow to your head. Being a pro-kick boxer, you quickly guard up, and stay in kicking distance, sending a powerful right body kick at my ribs, like wanting to chop me in half. I lower my right glove to protect my ribs, and your shin crashes my glove into my side, sending me stumbling to my right a step, then a rear push kick comes out of nowhere, and goes through my disrupted guard, hitting me in the chest, sending me stumbling back a few steps, breathing hard through the pain. I nod at you, and then begin to circle to my right, guarding up quickly and begin to search for openings.

<MuayThaiFera> My roundhouse kick is powerful and sets up well the teep which shoves you back. I get the range and we go back to our circle dance. The crowd enjoying the early exchange. Giving an equal "oooh" for both La Princesa's face teep and The Little Gypsy's hard body kick and teep combo. Both of us very lightly shining with supple skin as we pad around the ring. First circling, and slowly coming closer together, and a bit closer. I step towards you with a fake jab, punting it out half way before sliding towards you for a right body hook, looking to rip my glove across your ribs before following up with a short left hook to the jaw, looking to close up on you.

<Valenzuela> We slowly close the distance, I’m breathing hard after taking the teep kick in the chest, but gradually the pain begins to subside. You come at me with a jab, and I use my gloves to defend my face, but the glove stops, and then you come in closer with a right body hook at my ribs, my high guard unable to defend and the right hook pounds in hard at my left side ribs, my mouth opening in a big O to gasp from the impact. I keep the high guard and then you let rip with a short left hook at my jaw, I’m able to parry the left out to my right, and then step inside your guard, an send a big right overhand back at your temple, and follow this up with a double left jab towards the centre of your face, I want to go toe to toe, and stay inside of boxing range.

<MuayThaiFera> We are still eyes locked and assessing. Circling, edging closer. I shoot the jab out and you parry with the glove. However, I've only gone half way, retracting it back I take a step closer and SMASH the body hook in hard against you. The crowd "OOOH" on impact as the TV cameras pick up the dull thud of my glove on your ribs. My left hook keeps you where you are and has your guarding up. With your guard already high you get off a quick parry and open up some space as your overhand comes and clips my temple. It knocks my head back a step and rather than going backwards I elongate my stance a little with the weight shifting to my back foot. I cover up for the jabs, almost turtling as the work my guard. I try to come back swinging a rear uppercut, left hook again towards you, trying to put my shoulders more forward and getting into this in fight.

<Valenzuela> My overhand swing clips your temple, a glancing hit that falls short of the impact I’d aimed for. You immediately turtle up, absorbing my jabs in your tight guard, deflecting them efficiently as I keep up the assault to keep you occupied. But then I catch a subtle shift—a dip in your right shoulder telegraphing an incoming uppercut. I brace myself, using my gloves like shields to block the shot, but when it connects, the force blasts through, splitting my guard open with sheer power. The opening leaves me exposed just long enough for you to follow up, swinging a left hook that slams into my ribs with a meaty thud, sending a grimace across my face. The crowd reacts to the smack of your glove meeting my side, their energy feeding the intensity in the ring. The ache in my ribs sharpens, but I’m not backing off. Instinctively, I counter fast, driving a right hook toward your temple, aiming over your raised left shoulder. Not waiting to see if it lands, I immediately torque my body into a left hook aimed at your liver, looking to return some of that body punishment. With the momentum flowing, I spring forward, driving my right knee up with all my force, aiming straight for your navel, hoping to knock the wind from you and reclaim some ground in this punishing exchange.

<MuayThaiFera> My defense holds fairly well as I stand and bang with you. I feel more in a flow state and like I'm about to start landing. I dip and twist for my uppercut to get firing but your combination of great reflexes, years of training and experience help you make good reads. Your arms come up ahead like a shield. Despite the strong show my uppercut streaks through, splits it and knocks your chin. It's followed up by a solid hook thudding against your ribs. It forces a grimace as you bite down and don't back down. You stay right here ready to fight. The first shot is filled with venom and I need to act quick, looking to cover up as your shot hammers my glove into my head. It does it's job though as your follow up is on the way even before it fully lands. I find myself exposed for the liver shot and your left hook cracks into the body. It bends me to the side as I shoot out air from between my lips. "hugggggghhhhh". My body being quickly manipulated by your fast exchange even further as you then bend my body inwards as your knee hits my naval. I begin to backpeddle, my body starting to light on fire from the liver shot, eyes almost ready to water as I retreat. I look to throw a low right leg kick as I retreat, trying to slam across the front of your thigh before going for a body kick to the ribs, bouncing up after the low kick to try and stop your advance on me

<Valenzuela> I feel my strikes land with satisfying precision, each shot driving you back, the impact forcing air from your lungs and bending your body to my rhythm. My knee connects solidly with your navel, and I catch the slight stagger in your stance, a sign that the pressure is getting to you. Seeing you backpedal fuels me, adrenaline pushing me forward, determined not to let you slip away so easily. But as you retreat, I catch the sharp flicker of movement from your leg—a low right kick aimed at my thigh. I instinctively tighten my stance, but the strike slams into my lead leg, a stinging line of fire spreading across the front of my thigh. As you bounce up for the follow-up body kick, I’m ready. My arms snap down with precision, intercepting your shin with my forearms, absorbing the force. The impact reverberates through my gloves, but it’s controlled, contained. I see the opening now and spring into action, wasting no time. I fire a quick, punishing right hook aimed directly at your temple, looking to shake you. Then I bring a left uppercut low into your ribs, aiming to dig in under your guard. And follow this with a swing of a hard right cross straight at your jaw, each punch designed to keep you off balance, to force you back even as I press forward.

<MuayThaiFera> You force me back and back, the small ring being cut off with each step. The crowd raising their volume slightly for each heavy land. As I throw the threating low kick you tighten up. But even when tensed, a shin bone hitting soft tissue is always going to sting. You wince as I line up the follow up, bouncing the ball of my foot off the floor back into another kick but this time body height. You bravely tense up and push your weight into the kick, gloves ready to receive it. As it hammers the gloves you explode forward. My leg on the way back to the floor as your body springs open into the hook. While my arm is close and my glove comes to block, your punch is snappy and makes it first, slapping just over my glove and into my temple knocking my head sideways and almost cracking my neck with the whip of the shot. Your rock-hard punches causing damage. The uppercut into my ribs almost feels like slow motion, your uppercut cracking my ribcage and lifting me up onto tiptoes briefly as my body bends and molds to your punching combo. I wobble as your final cross beats my guard, splits it and powers into my jaw. It clips just off to one side and pushes me head sideways and backwards, my gloves thrown up slightly in front of my face as I fall backwards. But, it’s only one step as I feel the tight, tense white ropes against my sweating back. I find myself leaning back onto the rope rope, not quite over it as we’re only short in quite a high ring but the top rope holds my upper back in place. My head feels a bit wobbled as I attempt to step off them with a jab, the jab not really my main aim as I try to shove forward and into a clinch position, hoping to get a grip of your neck with both gloves ready to throw a right knee.

<Valenzuela> Right hook—BAM!—I feel my gloved fist crack into your temple, the impact sharp and satisfying as you stagger back. Left uppercut—BAM!—drives into your ribs, my knuckles digging into the muscle and bone, and I watch the ripple of pain as you gasp. Right cross—BAM!—connects flush with your jaw, sending you stumbling back again, step by step, until your back collides with the ropes. A rush of energy surges through me; every fiber of my body is alight with the thrill of dominance, alive with the power of landing punches right where I want them. I feel unstoppable, my heart pounding in sync with the crowd’s roar, pushing me forward. But just as I close in, feeling victory within reach, you snap out a jab—smack!—it lands flush on my cheek, and a jolt of pain shoots through my face, my skin stinging, my vision blurring for a heartbeat. I grit my teeth, trying to absorb the hit, ignoring the throbbing ache radiating from where you struck me. And then, before I can recover, I feel your gloves latch onto the back of my neck, pulling me into a clinch, your arms firm and controlling. I know what’s coming—the knees, the close-range punishment, and I’m not about to let you have it. My gloves drop low, and I swing with everything I’ve got, trying to send a hard left uppercut into your abs, and then my right follows, another uppercut plunging towards your stomach, We are nose to nose, forehead to forehead, sweat mixing as our eyes lock, each of us defiant, neither one willing to give an inch.

<MuayThaiFera> It’s almost cinematic in how you push me back, each shot sinking into skin and moulding my face or mid-rim to the shape of your glove. I’m a fighter though. I’ve been under pressure, and I’ve won through. I’ve got to try and overcome. I step off and the jab interrupts your assault towards me. It stings enough that I get my chance and my moment to wrap up, getting a solid feel on your neck. My gloves almost in a butcher’s grip, my elbows pulled in tight and trying to pull your head down to the very top of my chest around the top of my collarbone. It’s a textbook grip, it’s strong and tight. The only downside is my back is still on the ropes. I am ready to begin kneeing though but as I bring that right knee back, you unload everything with a left uppercut to my abs “uffff” and then a right “ufff” both of them test my grip, a little looser, and a little looser. My abs tensed and muscular but not designed to take sustained body blows at will. Your shots loosen my clinch as we go nose to nose. I try to push my hips into yours and get us pretty much level, hoping to spin and put you onto the ropes to lean my body forward, needing to get myself in a better position to deal some good damage. Hoping I 1) switch the position and 2) pull my right arm back for a thudding right elbow towards your left eye.

<Valenzuela> I feel the resistance in your grip loosening with each body shot I throw, my punches digging deeper, testing your hold as our heads press together, noses nearly touching, breaths mingling, and eyes locked in fierce determination. I can see the strain in your face, the flicker of pain, but I know you’re not giving in. Just as I think I’ve got you backed into the ropes, your hips drive into mine, and before I know it, you twist us around. Suddenly, I feel the rough edge of the ropes press against my back, and I realize you’ve reversed our positions, putting me at a disadvantage. In a split second, your right arm pulls back, and I catch a glimpse of the sharp angle of your elbow coming straight at my left eye. Instinct kicks in, and I try to duck down, bracing myself and preparing to push off the ropes. I move down enough to save my eye, but the elbow cracks hard into the top of my head, making it ache and it twists my head to my right. As I raise myself back up, now on the ropes, I try to press my head onto your right collar bone to avoid more elbows, and pull you into me tighter, my arms wrapping around your body, then dry to drive my right knee up into the side of your left thigh.

<MuayThaiFera> Managing to twist you back onto the ropes, I get into the better position I'd hoped for without much resistance. It lets me set myself and the elbow comes up, ready to unload. It is sharp and heavy but instead of your eye area it ricochets off the top of your head, the hardest part of your skull. You try to pull me in tight in a defensive clinch, arms around my waist. You go to drive your knee into my thigh and it digs in, with us being so close together however and you being on the ropes, there's barely any room for you to get any space to pull it back for the throw. With your arms both wrapped around my waist I start to try and grind my forearm across your chin and push your head back using one of my arms. I'm looking to loosen your grip and just make your neck and face really uncomfortable. As I push with the forearm I try to turn my body slightly to look to get myself across your open body against the ropes, trying to make space for a knee to the body.

<Valenzuela> My knee strike is a waste of energy, as we are too close together for it to do any damage and now I feel the grind of your forearm against my chin, pressing hard, pushing my head back in an uncomfortable angle that forces my neck to strain against the ropes. You are using your lower centre of gravity to great advantage a we wrestle for position with my back on the rope. Every instinct tells me to release, to pull my face away from that grinding pressure, but I keep my grip tight, my arms anchored around your waist. Still, your shift in position catches my attention as you turn, angling your body to open up space. I know what’s coming, and I brace myself, tightening my core and pulling you in even closer to limit your movement. With my face forced back, I twist my head slightly to relieve the pressure on my chin and shift my weight on the balls of my feet. As I feel you setting up for a knee strike, I try to pivot my hips and adjust my grip, aiming to pull you sideways into the ropes instead. I know I’m on the defensive here, but I’m not giving you the opening for an easy shot.

<MuayThaiFera> With neither of us getting control the ref starts to watch us on the ropes to make sure there's work being done. As I angle myself out ready to throw the knee you shift your weight defensively. Stuffing the knee. Instead I decide to try and get the space back between us rather than grind out the clinch, with my arm on your face I try to pull one leg back and across your hips, looking to push my shin across your hips. At the same time I try to reverse my grip on your head for a normal clinch and pull, setting up a stall.

<Valenzuela> The pressure against my chin relents slightly as you try to reposition, and I feel the shift as your leg moves back, aiming to create that small bit of distance between us. My instincts tell me you’re about to go for another clinch, trying to stall and reset the pace, but I’m not about to let you take control that easily. With your shin pressing against my hips, I shift my weight onto my left foot, grounding myself just enough to take advantage of the slight space you’ve opened up. I unwrap my arms from around you and try to bring my gloves between us in an attempt to shove you away from me before you can fully lock in the clinch.

<MuayThaiFera> I wanted to show some control for the ref to break us and me come out of the exchange looking better. As my leg goes across your hips however you look to shove me while on one standing leg. I do get pressed back towards centre ring and end up back at kicking range. I decide to take an extra step back and circle. A simple reset. No point risking going back in right after you. I calmly circle and go back to a jab, and another, working it in the space between us before I try to fake a cross, but stopping halfway as it masks a hard low kick, my standing foot actually leaving the ground as I jump into the shot, trying to hammer my right leg down onto your thigh muscle.

<Valenzuela> You retreat, taking a step back and circling to regain your distance, and I know you’re recalculating, looking for a cleaner approach. As you start jabbing, I keep my guard up, blocking the jabs, watching your movements carefully, anticipating your next angle. Then, as you feint the cross, I instinctively brace to defend high, but your shot stops halfway. I realize the trick a split second too late, as you spring off your lead foot and send a powerful low kick crashing into my thigh. The impact is sharp, jolting through my leg, and my thigh muscle throbs as my balance wavers slightly. Gritting my teeth, I shift my weight, aiming to stay grounded, determined to suck up the pain. With a burst of energy, I step forward to close the gap, aiming to take the fight closer to you. I try to answer back with a fast right hook toward your ribs, trying to sweep it under your elbow, immediately following it with a left cross to your cheek, trying to punch through the centre of your guard, pressing forward to keep you from resetting and taking control of the pace.

<MuayThaiFera> As I launch forward I feel my low kick slam into your thigh. It ripples the muscle and makes a satisfying slap sound. As I pull back to my guard you spring forward trying to end the round on a flurry of shots. You come forward and do manage to sneak a hook onto my ribs. I see you coming forward and take a step back but as I do, leave them just open enough with my elbow that your shot smacks against them. I wince as I pull up my gloves and take your follow up punch onto the guard. It knocks my head back but protected by my gloves. It does make me take a step back. As I do I hear the bell sound *DING* and I let my arms drop, looking directly at you, game face still on.

<Valenzuela> As the bell rings, signaling the end of the round, I take a steady breath, feeling the heat in my muscles and the lingering sting from your kicks. I lower my arms, rolling my shoulders as I shake out the tension from the last exchange, my eyes still locked on you. There’s a slight smirk on my face, just enough to show I’m not backing down—I’m only just getting started. I nod, acknowledging the intensity you brought, and start to turn toward my corner, my heart pounding in sync with the crowd’s energy. I glance over my shoulder one last time, letting you know I’m ready for whatever’s next, before focusing inward, calming my breaths, mentally preparing for the next round. As I settle on the stool in my corner, my coach leans in, his voice steady but intense. "Val, you’re doing great, but watch her kicks. She’s quick, and those low kicks are adding up. Keep an eye on her stance—she's baiting you with those feints, so don’t bite too hard." He pats my shoulder, a mix of encouragement and urgency in his voice. "Keep closing that distance. You’re landing solid shots when you get inside, but don’t get reckless. Pick your moments, stay low, and keep that guard tight, especially when she goes high with her hooks. She's leaving her ribs open, so stay focused and keep targeting the body." With a quick squeeze on my arm, he adds, “Alright, deep breath. She’s feeling it—just stay sharp, stick to the plan, and let’s wear her down.” I nod, letting his words sink in, my body still buzzing with adrenaline as I rise, bouncing lightly, ready to step back into the ring.

<MuayThaiFera> I watch as you start to head back. I retreat back to my own corner with a look of determination as I put myself down on the stool and look out towards the ring. The crowd is a buzz after an all action opening round. My coach gets in and starts to wipe my face with a towel. Sorting out any sweat on my shoulders and grabbing my legs, shaking them out as I have them extended. "Great to start Fera. We need to keep the tricky game and just use that fight IQ. Set the traps, work in the feints. Keep switching thing sup regularly don't get set in a pattern. Let's go long into short and time the counters. We're up that round". I nod and steady my breath. MY game face truly back on. I hear the command of "Seconds out" and I stand, my team exiting the ring as I bounce on my toes. Gloves at my side.

<MuayThaiFera>  

<Valenzuela> Photo not found.  DING! When the command rings out, I take a final breath, focusing on every word my coach said: stay smart, exploit those body shots, and keep the pressure. As the ref signals us back to the center, I step forward, my eyes locked on you, ready to push the pace. I guard up and move to the ring centre, and decide to confront you straight on, moving in quickly with a sharp left jab aimed at your nose, hoping to get you thinking high, then immediately drop low and send a quick, stinging right hook toward your ribs, aiming just under your guard to target that opening my coach pointed out. Without missing a beat, I follow up with a snapping left kick to your outer thigh, aiming to slow you down. Feeling the momentum , I press forward even more, feinting a jab high at your face again to keep you guessing, then try to drive in with a powerful right uppercut toward your chin, trying to keep you on the defensive and test your guard.

<MuayThaiFera> We come back tot he middle to meet and reconvene. Both glaring into each other's eyes. You come out straight at me towards the middle taking the centre spot as you fire out the jab. Starting off with intent. I pad the jab with my glove wanting to stay at boxing range and stay sharp and fast. The second shot is lightning quick and I have to tense up, dip my knee slightly and tuck in to avoid a heavy body shot. I manage it but at the cost of my balance being on my front foot. It leads to your low kick smacking against my outer thigh, rippling my muscle as I wince and straighten up. I'm still in the pocket not backing away but suffering for doing so. You try and put heavy pressure on me. This time I do back up as you jab out again, I go to pad again but this time it's only a feint meaning my arm is slightly out from my chin as you explode forward with a sharp, harsh uppercut under it. It thuds my head upwards. It knocks me back a step as you come right at me this round. I try to halt your momentum by attempting a stabbing front leg push kick, pulling my toes back and aiming for the sternum to keep enough distance between us for me to swing a hard right body kick up towards your ribs.

<Valenzuela> I feel the impact of my shots landing solidly, each one chipping away at you as I press forward, eager to maintain control. But just as I’m about to close the gap further, you react quickly, planting your weight and sending a push kick straight at my sternum. The force jolts me back, air knocked from my lungs in a quick gasp as I stumble a step. Before I can fully regain my footing, you’re already winding up, and I see the arc of your body kick coming right toward my ribs. Instinct kicks in, and I tighten my core, twisting slightly to brace against the blow. The kick lands hard against my side, and I grit my teeth as a sharp, fiery ache spreads through my ribcage. I force myself to push forward again, gritting through the pain, to try to get in boxing range. I plant my feet firmly, launching a retaliatory right cross aimed straight at your cheekbone, immediately following it up with a left hook toward your temple, determined to keep you from gaining ground and reassert my pace in this round.

<MuayThaiFera> On the defensive going backwards but thankfully that's actually a good position for front leg teeps. My back leg planted and my back leaning, using my hips to buck forward and stop you. Coming out of it with the body kick heading to the ribs. Bam! Nailing the shot as you display the sharp impact.Somehow you step forward out of it. You're back at me in boxing range, getting up close and in my face with the right cross. I manage to roll and dodge the cross but while I try and use my head movement for the hook, it's not quite enough and you catch me while rolling out of it. Smashing my temple and knocking me sideways as my legs wobble, getting caught flush while trying to be illusive. I try and throw a short right knee, my gloves raised trying to initiate a clinch towards your neck.

<Valenzuela> My hook connects, and I feel the satisfying impact as it catches you on the temple, knocking you off balance. Seeing the effect, I know I've made some ground, feeling a surge of adrenaline pushing me forward. But before I can press further, you react fast, your gloves raised and closing in, aiming for a clinch. I see your knee coming up towards me, and instinctively I lower my guard to block, but its too late. The knee digs into my side, reigniting the ache in my ribs, and I grit my teeth through the pain. Refusing to let you take control in the clinch, I strike my gloves upwards, trying to punch at your forearms, twisting slightly to try to loosen your hold and create just enough space between us. If I can break loose, I'll take a half step back, and aim a tight right uppercut toward your jaw, then follow with a quick left elbow toward your cheek, wanting to keep you on the defensive and break free from the clinch attempt.

<MuayThaiFera> My knee hits but as I come for the clinch you put your gloves out and almost go for a bicep control style clinch, trying to press my arms back before I can lock onto your neck. As we battle for bicep control you disengage with a short uppercut through the middle to my jaw. That paired with a sharp elbow, while not killing blows knock my head up and to one side, staggering me off to the side as I wobble slightly. I abandon the clinch idea and instead try to plant my back foot again so I don't start to walk on wobbily feet. Looking to fake a cross so I can jump forward and unload a hard left body hook into the ribs, putting all my weight into it and almost jumping, Mike Tyson left hook style.

<Valenzuela> My uppercut and elbow land just enough to make you stagger, and I see the shift in your stance as you plant your back foot, clearly looking for a strong return. As you fake a cross, I keep my guard up, expecting the follow-up, but you explode forward, throwing a fierce left hook aimed right at my ribs. I brace, feeling the impact reverberate through my body, the pain flaring up but refusing to let it slow me down. Clenching my teeth, I absorb the hit, gasping, and then try using the closeness to my advantage, and immediately drop my guard just enough to counter. I fire a quick left hook aimed at your cheek, hoping to surprise you before stepping back, then try to drive a right teep kick up toward your chin, trying to power the ball of my foot through the middle of your guard, aiming to knock you off balance and keep you from resetting for another powerful shot.

<MuayThaiFera> I look a little stunned as you take my powerful hook. It clearly does damage but you've hung in and gritted your teeth. You've exploded back out for the counter shot, the left hook clipping my cheek before my fist gets back, it knocks my head again as I start to show the redness and a bit of bruising from the punches sustained so far. I try to lean back as your foot cmes up but the teep has "just" enough on it and your foot presses against my chin and sends me backwards. I'm a step off the ropes and decide to circle around. To my left on the outside, my right hand cocked, trying to pick a moment. I step in with a shovel uppercut, about 45 degrees up towards the chin with my right hand cocked behind it looking for a powerul straight punch

<Valenzuela> You've worked over my body pretty fiercely, and the accumulation of those body punches and kicks is taking a toll, and slowing me down. My teep kick sends you backwards, but you stay on your feet and stop before you reach the ropes, allowing yourself the opportunity to circle back around and a lunch a massive shovel uppercut to my chin. I see it coming, and lean back from your right gloved fist as it swings only an inch in front of my face. As your right mises the target, I pivot on my lead left foot, and try to swing around with a spinning back elbow strike with my right arm, hoping to connect my elbow with your jaw!

<MuayThaiFera> The fight is getting a little frenetic as we both swing. I step in, power shots and a mini combo on my mind. You lean the uppercut but my follow up straight see's a smart twist from yourself, spinning as I throw. Timing it almost cinematic as your elbow whips around. It beats out my cross and your elbow lands flush against my tenses jawline. It RAMS into my jaw and knocks me sideways, my head sent spinning with a superb shot, almost making me drop where I stand with my legs wobbiling. I fall back two steps to the side as the crowd "OOH"s loud. The volume suddenly up and tension high. My bare feet a little dazed in their movement as my eyes don't quite look right. I throw a heavy left hook, swinging the arm looping and trying to catch anything in front of me as an instinct response

<Valenzuela> My pivot spared me the straight punch, and my spinning back elbow lands with a hard pop! It sends you sideways, and I can tell your head is spinning around. You fall back two steps to the side, and your eyes look like they are having trouble focusing on me, the ref looking on concerned. You throw out a heavy hook, really trying to catch anything your can, but I weave under it with ease, and come inside your guard, trying to hammer your chin with a right uppercut as I spring back up, a left shovel hook towards your liver, and then a right straight punch towards your solar plexus. Sweat is pouring off my body and I just want to take advantage of my lucky elbow strike before you can recover.

<MuayThaiFera> My shot is a little wild and I'm trying to catch you hard on instinct. Your senses are still goo though and the wildness of my shot see's you able to weave and move nicely. Smoothly. You end up inside my guard. Toe to toe as your uppercut smashes into my chin,unable to cover up quick enough as you knock my head up before the liver shot sinks into my body. I wince, grunt and bend inwards, trying to guard up as I allow myself to stumble back. My bend and arms pulled in tight means your cross hits my forearms but it does result in me hitting the ropes. Breathing a little hard and sweating as the liver shot affects my speed in the moment. I grit my teeth and swing a hard right high kick, trying to come up under your chin.

<Valenzuela> The uppercut lands with precision, snapping your head back as I follow with a quick shovel hook to your liver. I feel the force ripple through you, and you fold slightly, retreating with a pained grunt. But you’re built tough, a solidly built Indonesian fighter, and you take the hits without going down. My follow-up straight punch only glances off your forearms as you instinctively pull your guard in tight, bracing yourself as you hit the ropes. I’m breathing heavily, my body slick with sweat, feeling the intensity of each moment as you catch your breath. Clearly, the liver shot took its toll, but you’re using the ropes to your advantage now, leaning back into the top rope. Then, in one swift motion, you push off, sending a hard right high kick arcing toward my chin. I barely have a second to react, and your foot slips right through my guard, landing solidly under my chin with a brutal impact. The shot rattles my skull, snapping my head back and sending a shockwave down my spine. I stagger back, stars dancing in my vision as the crowd gasps at the precision of your strike. Shaking off the haze, I force myself to close the distance, lunging forward to keep you from gaining more momentum. Reaching out, I snap my arms around the back of your head, pulling you into a tight clinch, my forearms trying to dig against your shoulders to control your movement. I dig my feet into the mat, pressing forward to stay close, determined to neutralize those lethal kicks before they find their mark again.

<MuayThaiFera> From the ropes I let loose with the kick, using my weight on the top rope as best I can. The ropes coming up high on my upper back due to my height, my foot slaps across your chin and you stagger back. As you shake it off, I step off the ropes and simultaneously we both go for a clinch, you charge me down and I step off the ropes. Our arms meet and wrestle for control as you take the back of my head and pull, testing my neck muscles that feel sore now. Your clinch is tight as we get close. I try to pull my right leg back for a knee to the body before trying to twist you round towards the ropes

<Valenzuela> As I clinch with you, my head still feels woozy from the impact of that high kick, and now we are both grappling for control. I have no doubt that either or a knee or elbow will fly at me, but since my arms are over your shoulders, I know it won't be an elbow, so just as you try to bring your knee up, I press myself tightly into you, snuffing the knee strike on my body. However, my movements leave me somewhat unstable, and you twist us around, so my back is now on the ropes. I pull my right arm back, and try to send my elbow hooking towards your left eye socket....

<MuayThaiFera> As we clinch up you press in tight. My knee attempt isn't quite there as you go hip to hip and stop me creating enough space. I twist you again into the ropes. A quick switch and again you're backed up onto them. I have the solid inside grip around your neck. Your elbow is short and sharp, battering into my eye. It stings a lot and instantly makes my eye area go red as I try to release the clinch and pull my right arm back for a hard right cross right down the middle

<Valenzuela> We are now struggling mightly on the ropes, and I feel trapped, but my elbow connects with your eye, turning it red, and will no doubt leave you with a shiner within a few hours. But you respond with a hard right cross down the middle, your gloved fist pounding into my nose, causing some blood to dribble out onto my upper lip. I know I have to fight my way off the ropes, try a left hook at your temple and then try to shove with my right glove.

<MuayThaiFera> We stand in boxing range with you on the ropes and me just off them. You box hard off them with the left hook and shove. My guard is up but you partially tag my temple before putting a push high on my upper chest. I take a step back after it so I stand in southpaw. From that stance I try a switch roundhouse towards the ribs so I land in orthodox but land closer to you so I can attempt a hard right uppercut trying to take your head off.

<Valenzuela> The crowd has become animated as this match has now become stand your ground and fight. A real slug festival. My left hook only glances off your temple, doing no real damage, and my shove only works to your advantage, setting you up for a switch round house with your left. I see you launch that left leg, forcing me to drop my right glove to block, the kick is hard and glances downward off my glove into my right side, which bends me down, so your right uppercut glides over my left shoulder missing my face. DING! The bell sounds, as I try to absorb the pain in my side, sweating and breathing hard, round 2 was a tough round fir me.

<Valenzuela> As soon as the bell rings, I take a deep breath, grateful for the brief pause. Fera had me on the ropes, and my nose is bleeding, my side aches and she was just about on fire. My coach pulls me onto the stool, quickly wiping sweat and a smear of blood from my nose. I feel the sting as he presses a cold compress against my cheek and ribs, trying to numb the ache radiating from the last few hits. He leans in close, keeping his voice steady but urgent. "Val, that was a tough one, but you’re handling her well. She’s looking for that opening, so don’t give her any room. Keep your hands high, guard tight, and watch that left side. Her kicks are adding up. You’ve got to take away her space." I nod, breathing steadily as he gently massages my shoulders and ribs, bringing a cold sponge to my face. The coolness brings a little clarity, the sensation grounding me. He glances at my bleeding nose, lightly dabbing it to keep the blood flow under control. “Just keep pressing. You saw that spinning elbow land clean—that’s what I want more of. Keep her guessing, keep your combinations flowing. You’re the one in control here.” I clench my gloves, feeling my energy returning. “You’re right. She’s good, but she’s slowing. I can wear her down.” He smirks, giving my arm a reassuring squeeze. "That’s what I want to hear. Don’t let up, Val. She’s feeling it too. This next round, make her fight on your terms." With a final nod, I rise from the stool, feeling my legs steady beneath me, the sting in my side and nose fading as the adrenaline pumps through me. The crowd is buzzing, my coach's words clear in my head, and I’m ready to make this next round count.

<MuayThaiFera> My switch kick flies into your glove and brushes off into your side. My uppercut is the follow up and while it misses, I hear the bell sound DING. I drop my hands and breathe, sweat running down my lower back and forehead. I breathe heavily as I turn and head to my corner to sit. I sit on the stool and put my gloves over the second rope, my feet planted on the floor, back pressed into the cool plastic corner pad. Breathing hard as my coach jumps in. I get the cold compress around my eye and ice packs on my body and legs. It’s a shock before I allow myself to let it wash over me and relax. A towel being rubbed over my face. “Fera. Nice. I like the work. I want you to work hard when you clinch and I want you to keep her guessing, switch your feet, use the fakes. Fake teep, fake cross, she’s biting. The knockout is there, I know you can see it. Be patient and it’ll come. You ready?” I nod as he finishes off towelling me off, my tanned skin looking good in the bright arena lights. “Seconds out”.

<Valenzuela> As I rise from my stool, preparing to step back into the center of the ring for round three, every bruise, every ache, is fresh in my mind. My nose is no longer bleeding, but it along with my chin and cheeks and ribs and abs ache from her relentless punches, kicks, knees and elbows, but as I stand, I push all of it out of my mind. I also know that I gave Fera some serious punishment too! DING! The bell sends a shock wav through my mind, and now prepare for more battle as I move slowly out of my corner, ready to square off with you again for what will be another difficult round with a superb opponent.

<Valenzuela> I start moving toward you, slower this time, my guard up high, like I’m being cautious. I let my eyes flash just enough worry to make it look like I’m going defensive. I even shift my head slightly, anticipating your next punch. As we close the distance, I throw a low left kick toward your knee, hoping to make you look down. I check the kick by dropping my foot down on the mat, allowing me to lunge forward, trying to swipe a right hook towards your jaw, then change to Southpaw stance to try a trailing left hook at your lower floating ribs.

<MuayThaiFera> I'm up and ready to go once more. I tighten my guard tucking my elbows in, my chin down and I'm bouncing on my toes. We come together and you look defensive. Shifting your head as you close distance. We're dancing without really committing just yet, gloves coming out but not as a jab just as a way to keep a distance. As you go for the low kick towards my knee I go for the check, lifting my shin up to block but it see's you plant and twist. Your hook is hard but I manage to just about stay guarded. However I'm on one standing leg and the hook knocks me a bit off balance. As a result, changing stance you give yourself a bit of room to be able to hit that trailing hook towards my liver. It's a bone rattler as I squint and wince. Flinching as the punch lands hard. I try to throw a left hook back while taking a step back, wanting to stay out of boxing range just for now, looking to retreat 2 steps with an attempted front pushing kick to the chest.

<Valenzuela> The sharp impact of my left hook to your liver gives me a flicker of satisfaction, hearing the grunt and seeing the wince cross your face. But you're tough, and I know better than to assume you’ll fold just yet. As your weight shifts back, I brace myself, reading your intent even as you take a retreating step. Your left hook swings wide, and though I’m close enough for it to graze my glove, I stay focused. Then I see it—your hips shifting as you prep for a push kick to my chest. No way I’m letting that land clean. I pivot slightly, rolling my torso to the side and slapping your foot away with my forearm, the force sending a dull thud up my arm. Using the momentum of your retreat, I surge forward, closing the gap with a quick shuffle step. I fake a high jab, my glove snapping toward your face, but my real target is lower, firing a left teep kick toward your solar plexus, aiming to knock the wind out of you and slow down your footwork. The crowd’s buzz grows louder as I press the attack, stepping in further, I raise my right knee for a feint and follow with a hard left hook aimed at your lower ribs, and then try to reach out for a clinch around your neck, trying to wrestle you into my rhythm.

<MuayThaiFera> On my way out, ideally out of range my hook lands just wide and not quite making any contact. Wanting to keep that kicking distance I put my put up and try to shove my hips forward for the push kick. As I do you see it and change your hips to not be square but slightly side on allowing you to deflect most of it to the forearm while you continue to advance. I don't get to go far back before I reach the ropes as you shuffle step and head towards me, staying right in my face. Just as I feel the ropes on my back you fake the jab, I go to pad it with my lead hand as you teep my plexus. The result is that I get pushed back onto the ropes and my back ends up bending the the ropes back ever so slightly with the force. As I come back to full height (albeit not particularly tall) you fake the knee. I begin to step to my left, unable to back away off the ropes before quickly realising what's coming. The left hook HAMMERS my lower ribs with a dull thud. My eyes squint and my face winces as you reach and grab my neck for a clinch. You grab with both hands and I'm forced the wrestle, my neck muscles screaming internally. I try to fight the dominant clinch while throwing a right knee, wanting to try and twist to switch the position.

<Valenzuela> I land the left hook into your ribs with a solid thud, feeling the impact up my arm as your solid body takes yet another blow. There is no doubt now that I underestimated your fighting abilities and your ability to take solid punishment, but I feel confidence surge through me as you bend the top rope back. I bring my right glove up and off your neck, pulling it back to try and land a solid elbow on the side of your head, but you drive your right knee up and suddenly my left thigh screams out in pain as your knee strikes muscle all the way to the bone. My left knee begins to buckle and I'm forced to shift my weight to my right leg, so my elbow strike never launches as I try to regain my balance. Then you use your lower centre of gravity to twist and send me back into the ropes, reversing our position and out wrestling me for the third time. I try to regain my footing as pain spreads through my upper thigh.

<MuayThaiFera> My quick knee and twist get our position reversed. I’m in control again. I try to grab full clinch wrapping my hands around your neck and pull back for 2 knees to the body, one left, one right before attempting a right elbow across the front eye.

<Valenzuela> I feel the ropes dig into my back as you assert control over me, my thigh still radiating with pain from that brutal knee strike that allowed you to twist me into the ropes. You clamp down on my neck with a firm clinch, pulling me forward as I struggle to regain my balance. I grit my teeth, knowing I can’t let you dominate here. Your knee strikes my body once, then again, each one sends sharp jolts of pain through my abs, but I force myself to tighten my core and roll with the blows as best I can. My breath hitches in gasps, but I’m still standing. Then I see it, the slight shift in your arm as you wind up for that elbow aimed for my eye. My instincts scream at me to react, and I shift my weight to my back leg, jerking my head just enough to let the elbow hit the side of my head rather than my eye! The elbow gives my head a hard jolt, my face a grimace of pain as sweat flies off my face in every direction. Using the moment, I dig my gloves into your biceps, pushing back with all the strength I can muster to try to break your clinch. I step forward, into you, stomping my right foot down hard to stabilize, and shoot my left arm up between yours, aiming to pry your grip apart. At the same time, I pivot slightly and bring my right leg up in a sharp side knee toward your navel. I know I’m running on fumes, but I refuse to let you steamroll me!

<MuayThaiFera> My knees dig into your body, controlling your movement and giving you a rough push/ pull motion. Pulling with my arms and pushing with my hips to drive my knees in tight. Loosening the grip just enough to pull back for a shot elbow, I keep my left glove behind your head and look to slice with the elbow across the eye. Instead, you move and I slam the elbow hard into the temple. You try to react by going for bicep control. I decide to play with it and allow my grip to go one behind the head, one on bicep so we go for half and half clinch position. You dig your foot down to stabilize and pivot. Your knee comes up and digs into my body. I vend into it feeling the power. I try to break the clinch in a smart way, feigning the right knee halfway to try and bring it all the way back for a twist and pull, wanting to rag you around and throw you to the mat for a break of the action.

<Valenzuela> I feel the control shift slightly as my knee digs into your body, and for a moment, I think I’ve finally broken some of your momentum. But you’re relentless. Your grip adjusts, one hand on my bicep, the other still clamped behind my head, keeping me locked in the half-clinch position. Your strength and technique make it hard for me to maneuver as you push and pull with calculated ferocity. I sense the feint of your right knee and brace myself, expecting the blow, but it doesn’t come. Instead, your grip tightens, and you twist sharply, pulling me off balance. “Ungh!” I feel my feet leave the mat for a split second, the centrifugal force spinning me toward the canvas. My body twists awkwardly, and I hit the mat hard on my side, a dull thud reverberating through the ring. The crowd roars as the referee steps in to ensure the action is clean, but my mind is already racing. I roll to my knees, planting one glove on the mat as I push myself upright, my ribs and thigh screaming in protest. My breath comes in sharp bursts, and my body is soaked in sweat, but I’m not about to let you take this round uncontested. I meet your eyes as I rise, defiance written across my face. The ref motions us together again…shouting “FIGHT!” My gloves come up, and I shuffle forward, staying light on my toes despite breathing hard from the throw to the mat. I feint a low kick, with my leading left foot, wanting to divert your attention low, before snapping a quick jab toward your face, looking to reestablish some control.

<MuayThaiFera> As you hit the mat I start to walk away across the ring. Part in a show of control, part to give myself time to breathe. I walk across the ring and turn knowing you'll be back up, the ref grabbing our wrists and pulling us back together. I put my gloves back up and reset my stance padding from one foot to the other as you get us back underway after the call to "FIGHT". I go for the check as you pull back and pop me in the nose with a fast jab. I stay at boxing range instead of firing right back, circling around, trying to re-establish a slower pace. I pawing out with my left not to jab but to maintain distance. I fake the front teep, hopping forward and lifting my knee but instead of extending my leg I try to do a power rear teep hoping you go to block and I catch you on one standing leg.

<Valenzuela> I land the jab right on the nose, but it's not sufficiently hard to phase you. You don't counter, instead choosing to circle. Your leading leg comes out looking like a teep kick is gonna come, but instead a rear team kick come out fast and sharp, catching me on my standing leg, as my other leg was drawn behind me, attempting to retreat from what I though would be a forward team kick. My leg is swept out and I flip backwards onto my back, now red faced with humiliation from being swept off my feet twice in a matter of moments. I'm breathing hard and get back to my feet quickly.

<MuayThaiFera> I raise my right glove and take a stance as I bounce on my toes. The ref summoning you up. As you get back up he signals "FIGHT" and I choose not to engage. I stand and I wait. Not in a rush, not trying to chase any silly mistakes. Just pawing out, keeping distance, going more traditional Thai. I go simple. Jab... And move slightly... Jab... Move again.... Right body kick. Trying to pick heavy, simple shots to test the resolve.

<Valenzuela> We now move about the ring, both of us conserving energy, I block the jab. And then block the second jab with my gloves. You move well, and then launch a right body kick, so I move right to put some distance between me and your shin, and I lower my left glove to try to catch hold of your right calf as it taps my side, and also try to jab twice at your face with my right gloved fist, wanting to dominate

<MuayThaiFera> Pace getting slowed down, we're moving. Your defense ok with the jabs. You move with my kick stepping out to the side for some of it. With you moving to get distance between me and my shin, it means my foot is closer to your body than my shin and so my calf is a bit of a reach also. You nearly grab hold but I pull my ankle away befole you get a real hold. Almost thankful you moved so far or else it'd be a lot easier to grab my calf. You jab however and nearly chase me down, I back away 2 steps as you jab towards me pushing me back across the ring towards the ropes. I try and guard high, gloves up, elbows tucked trying to be solid. I hit back with a cross, switch kick trying to hurt the ribs.

<Valenzuela> My glove misses reaching your calf, and my right jabs fall short of your face. But I do drive you back across the ring. You guard high, and come in under my right, with a cross and switch kick that nail me hard in the ribs, countering my jabs very cleverly. I grimace and know that the red marks that you left there will soon turn black and blue. I pull back several steps to avoid further hits and to adapt to the pain. I know the bell will sound shortly, and need to score points, so as I come back towards you slowly circling, I try a low left roundhouse kick at the side of your right knee to distract, and as my lead leg returns, I hop into boxing range, sending a left jab at your temple and dropping my right, I weave low and try an uppercut at your floating ribs.

<MuayThaiFera> My cross and kick score and provide some separation. My body sweating as I try to take on air, relishing the breathing room. You come back towards me circling and I join you, keeping us at a mid distance, just outside of boxing and at kicking range. You go for the low roundhouse and it nicks the outside of my knee. not quite quick enough to check it as you clatter the outer knee. It does give you enough time to go for the jab making me bend inwards and guard up but it exposes my ribs and your hand SMACKS them. I grunt hard "uggnnnn" and I retreat back onto the ropes choosing to try and settle at the end of the round. Trying to just stay ahead I box off the ropes. Going for volume to keep you occupied. Jab, cross, hook, cross.

<Valenzuela> My kick to the knee doesn't do much damage, but it does distract you enough to let me land a clean uppercut to your ribs, and I feel the impact up and down my arm. I also back you onto the ropes, but as I come towards you to followup, you come out boxing hard, the jab snapping into my forehead, making me wince, and suddenly I'm on the the defensive, blocking a cross, and taking a hook on the jaw that twists my face around, and stepping back to let the next cross fall short, and then DING!!!! I might have had you on the ropes, but you had me playing defense and backing me off with a flurry of boxing. The ref pushes between us, and I back away towards my corner. I'm breathing hard and in need for water and toweling down.

<Valenzuela> I slump onto the stool, every inch of my body aching. My ribs are on fire, my thigh feels like it’s been hammered, and my jaw still throbs from that very last hook. But I’m still standing. I’ve taken Fera’s best shots, and I’m still here. She’s so fucking tough, so much tougher than I gave her credit for.

<Valenzuela> Both fighters retreat to their corners, drenched in sweat, bruised, and battered, yet standing tall. The crowd roars its approval, appreciating the grit and heart on display. The referee steps into the center of the ring, gesturing for both fighters to meet in the middle. The energy in the arena crackles with anticipation. Both corners wipe their fighters down quickly, and the crowd begins to buzz, sensing the decision is imminent. The referee steps between them, gripping each fighter’s wrist with their gloved hands. The crowd falls into an expectant hush, save for a few cheers and whistles breaking through the tension.