2. Guests: Ivanna Sakhno vs. Natasha Liu Bordizzo
Jan 20, 2024 1:32:20 GMT -6
girlsfriday, Lookout! Boxing, and 2 more like this
Post by caspian on Jan 20, 2024 1:32:20 GMT -6
(Results: Lookout, Words: Caspian)
2. Guests: Ivanna Sakhno vs. Natasha Liu Bordizzo
Ivanna:
(26, 5’8, 1:0 FCBA, Free Agent)
Natasha:
(29, 5’7, 2:0 FCBA, Fates Boxing)
BEFORE:
Up next, reporters and fans have gathered for the pre-fight press conference, eagerly awaiting the arrival of competitors Ivanna Sakhno and Natasha Liu Bordizzo. The backdrop, adorned with posters of the recent hit television show "Ahsoka," sets the stage for the on-screen rivalry to unfold in the ring.
Ivanna makes her entrance first, the Ukrainian actress exuding confidence in a black mini-dress that highlights her athletic physique, her blonde hair cascading in loose waves, framing her face. She greets the crowd with a charming smile, her eyes alight with excitement and a competitive spark.
Natasha follows, her presence equally commanding. The Aussie actress is clad in a striking red jumpsuit, a nod to her character's fiery spirit on the show. Her dark hair is neatly tied back, accentuating her striking features. She carries herself with a composed air, her smile more measured as she gives plenty of waves to her fans.
As they take their seats, Ivanna breaks the ice, "It's thrilling to bring our on-screen rivalry into the ring. I kicked Natasha’s ass multiple times on set, and I'm sure she'll be just as easy to beat in the boxing ring."
Natasha responds with a flash of annoyance, but then with equal poise, "You’re talking about our battles on the set of 'Ahsoka', sure. They were intense, but everyone knows how scripted those set pieces were. You didn’t tell them how often I bested you during sparring and combat training."
As the press conference continues, the playful banter escalates. Ivanna leans in, "I've been training hard for this. Natasha, prepare to face a Sabine Wren who no longer has to hold back."
Natasha meets her gaze, unflinching, "I wouldn't expect anything less. But remember, Shin Hati always has a few tricks up her sleeve. You might be surprised."
Later on, the weigh-in and staredown become even more charged as both actresses strip down to nothing but their underwear, before striding up to each other on stage. Ivanna, only slightly taller, smirks at Natasha in a set of black lingerie, whereas Natasha stands her ground with her fists raised high, in a pair of red bra and briefs.
Both girls separate without incident, and we’d expect nothing less from a pair of professional Hollywood actresses. They haven’t YET descended into the madness of the FCBA, after all!
Hours later, the lights in the Rose Bowl dim, and the first to make her way to the ring is Ivanna Sakhno. The opening notes of "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor blare through the speakers, and Ivanna strides confidently down the aisle, dressed in a sleek, metallic blue boxing outfit. Her top is a sports bra, featuring silver accents along blue edges. Her shorts are equally eye-catching, made of the same metallic blue fabric with a high waistband that proudly displays her name in bold, silver letters. Her gloves are a matching blue, with silver trim, completing the striking look. As she approaches the ring, Ivanna shadowboxes, her movements sharp and precise.
Moments later, Natasha Liu Bordizzo makes her entrance to the pulsating beats of "Warrior" by Imagine Dragons. The crowd's roar intensifies as she appears in a vibrant red boxing ensemble with gold trim. Her red sports bra is marked by intricate gold patterns, resembling flames licked across the surface. Her shorts are a deeper shade of red with a gold trim extending down either side. Her gloves are also a bold red with gold accents. Her dark hair is braided tightly, keeping it secure and out of her face. As she walks towards the ring, Natasha's eyes are locked on Ivanna, and she too engages in a series of shadowboxing moves, her fists cutting through the air.
In the ring, both fighters engage in their final preparations. Ivanna bounces on her toes, rolling her shoulders, her eyes scanning the crowd before settling on the task ahead. Natasha, on the other side, takes deep breaths, closing her eyes momentarily to center herself, before opening them with renewed focus.
The referee calls them to the center of the ring for the final instructions. Ivanna and Natasha face each other, and then touch gloves in a show of reluctant sportsmanship, though the smack! of leather on leather is a little too loud and stiff. Then, they retreat to their respective corners, awaiting the bell!
There’s the wave of the referee’s hand and HERE WE GO with ten rounds of Bantamweight action!
ROUND 1:
The bell signals the start of the bout, and Ivanna, embodying her on-screen character's primal aggression, wastes no time in asserting her presence in the ring! She advances with a series of feints, her body swaying side to side, showcasing her agility. Her eyes, sharp and focused, are locked onto Natasha, who circles her with equal caution, mirroring the movements of a Jedi duel they are both so familiar with. Ivanna, channeling Hati’s impulsive nature, launches the first attack. She throws a quick jab, but it's a setup for her real intention—a powerful right cross. But Natasha, anticipating the move, employs her boxing training, parrying the jab and smoothly stepping to the side, causing Ivanna's cross to miss its mark. Undeterred, Ivanna continues her assault. She darts in and out, her footwork light and unpredictable. She manages to land a quick one-two combination, her gloves tapping against Natasha's guard. The impacts are light, but it's a clear message of Ivanna's speed and intent. Natasha, maintaining her composure, begins to find her own rhythm. She uses her head movement effectively, bobbing under Ivanna's jabs, looking for an opening. It comes when Ivanna overcommits to a left hook, and Natasha COUNTERS with a swift uppercut that slips through Ivanna's guard, connecting with her chin! OUCH! Ivanna's head snaps back, a grunt escaping her lips, but she quickly regains her footing, a flicker of respect in her eyes for Natasha's counter-striking ability. The round progresses with both fighters exchanging blows more confidently. Ivanna, sticking to her aggressive strategy, lands a solid body shot to the side, and Natasha absorbs the hit with her body tensing upon impact, but then fires back with a combination of her own that finds Ivanna's torso, the thuds of her punches indicating her growing confidence. In the final seconds, Ivanna ups the ante. She unleashes a flurry of punches, her gloves snapping towards Natasha's head and body. Natasha, however, showcases her agility, weaving and stepping back, avoiding the brunt of the onslaught. As the bell rings, Ivanna retreats to her corner, her breath steady. Natasha, on the other hand, walks back to her corner with a slight nod, acknowledging the competitive nature of the round. The close round might have gone to Ivanna, but the Aussie’s skillful defense and strategic counterattacks have set the stage for another chapter in this compelling duel.
ROUND 2:
Natasha initiates the action this time, throwing a series of quick jabs that keep Ivanna at bay. Ivanna looks eager to close the distance, trying to counter with her own heavy swing, but Natasha's improved footwork allows her to glide out of reach effortlessly. Each time Ivanna lunges forward, Natasha counters with agility, slipping her head to the side before shoving jabs back into Ivanna's face and body, drawing several shouts of surprise and grunts. Ivanna, undeterred, attempts to regain control. She throws a powerful right, aimed for the head, but Natasha again reads the move, ducking under the punch, and in a fluid motion, delivers a snappy hook that lands squarely on Ivanna's chin! Grunting, the short-haired blonde’s head jerks to the side, a look of surprise on her face and pain escaping her lips as she stumbles slightly, momentarily thrown off balance. And it’s a signal for Natasha to move in closer, her punches becoming more aggressive! She targets Ivanna's arms and body, multiple jabs thudding against Ivanna's ribs and abdomen. Ivanna's responses become slower, the impact of each hit visibly affecting her as she tries to shield herself and create distance! In the latter half of the round, Natasha's dominance becomes more pronounced. She traps Ivanna against the ropes, unleashing a barrage of short-ranged body shots into the cornered blonde. Ivanna, pinned and with limited room to maneuver, absorbs the punishment, her body folding left and right with each hit. She attempts to clinch multiple times, seeking a moment's respite, but Natasha skillfully maintains the distance, continuing to land clean, effective strikes to beat her back against the ropes. And as the round nears its end, one fighter looks worse for wear! Natasha walks back to her corner with a clear sense of accomplishment, her breathing controlled and her focus unwavering. Ivanna, on the other hand, looks visibly shaken as she returns to her corner. The round has taken its toll, her breathing heavier, and a look of concern crosses her face as her corner team works to reinvigorate her for the next round. Natasha's tactical approach and effective counter-striking have earned her a wide margin in this round, setting a challenging pace for Ivanna to match in the upcoming rounds.
ROUND 3:
Soon, however, Ivanna's strategy pays off early in the round. She feints a jab to Natasha's head, causing her to raise her guard, before swiftly changing her target and landing a solid hook to the actress’ side. The impact is audible, a sharp "thwack" that echoes in the ring, and Natasha winces, momentarily thrown off by the unexpected body shot. Encouraged by this success, Ivanna increases her aggression, starting to close the distance, her movements more and more confident. More punches land high and low, the Ukrainian actress landing them in fast bunches, and Natasha tries to counter, but can’t keep up with Ivanna's speed and pressure. A series of jabs land on Natasha's face, each one snapping her head back slightly, forcing her to move back and try to create more space between them. However, Ivanna's relentless pursuit keeps the pressure on. Another heavy hook streaks into the side, this time targeting Natasha's ribs with a dull thud! Natasha grimaces, her body bending slightly to absorb the blow. As the round progresses, it’s Ivanna’s turn to corner Natasha against one corner of the ring, trapping her against the ropes with flurries of punches. Natasha defends herself by covering her head in her arms, but Ivanna's gloves simply smack and thud into her stomach and arms, and occasionally slipping through to connect with her face. In the final minute of the round, Ivanna lands a left hook to the cheek, followed by a right straight that lands squarely on her nose, snapping Natasha's head back and making her stumble backward, clearly dazed by the force of the blows! For a second, it looks like this might be it, but Natasha initiates a clinch by avoiding a brutal haymaker and instead wrapping up with her co-star! She’s breathing heavily on the shoulder, looking dazed, but at least she’s still standing! The bell rings and both fighters roughly shove off each other! Ivanna steps back, her chest heaving from the exertion but her eyes shining with the thrill of the fight. She has clearly won this round by a wide margin, her aggressive and tactical approach paying off. Natasha, on the other hand, looks visibly affected as she returns to her corner.
ROUND 4:
Round 4 and this battle is already resembling one of their many duels on screen, and with both women facing off with their arms up and circling, the only things that are missing are their orange and green lightsabers. From the opening bell, Natasha charges forward, determined to win the round back by putting on the pressure. Several jab combos fly forward towards Ivanna's face, each punch thrown with the intent to harass and hurt. But Ivanna, not one to back down, meets the aggression head-on. She counters with her own jab-cross combos, landing several shots of her own clean to the nose and lips, some at the expense of her own defenses. The exchange between the two is fierce and unyielding, drawing the crowd’s rising tempo and roars. Ivanna lands a particularly sharp right hook to the top of Natasha's temple, causing her to stagger momentarily to the side. However, she quickly regains her footing, avoids a follow-up swing from the blonde before shoving another fist straight into Ivanna's face as a counterattack. Another right cross follows right after, which snaps Ivanna's head back. The impact of Natasha's gloves is evident in Ivanna's expression, a mix of surprise and pain as she absorbs the hit, and as the rest of the round progresses, the intensity only increases. Both fighters exchange heavy blows in tandem, their faces showing the strain of the battle. Ivanna's nose is now reddened, a testament to Natasha's precise strikes. Natasha, on the other hand, sports a swelling under her left eye, a souvenir from her powerful hooks. And in a moment that harks back to their lightsaber duels, both fighters simultaneously land heavy blows to each other's faces. The impact sends them both reeling back, taking a brief pause, before regaining their composure and diving back into the fray, their rivalry driving them to push their limits. As the round nears its end, Natasha manages to gain a slight upper hand. She pushes Ivanna back towards the ropes, unleashing a series of combinations that leave her opponent guessing. Sakhno tries to rally but can barely fend off all the punches at once. And thankfully, the bell rings soon after, signaling an intense round marked by more intense moments. Natasha's round win is close, but her ability to land more effective strikes in the latter part of the round gives her the edge!
ROUND 5:
As the bell rings, both actresses waste no time in engaging, moving towards each other with a purpose! At first, it looked like both of them were gonna play it safe and take a breather. But once in range, they seem to throw caution to the wind, straight away shooting in lefts and rights, targeting the face and head, and when those punches meet the guard instead, instinctively go south to the body. Ivanna is still the more aggressive of the pair, dipping her head and shoulders left and right, avoiding some of Natasha’s punches with ease, before squeezing in a beautiful right cross straight into the Aussie brunette’s nostrils! Ouch!! Natasha’s head snaps backwards with a grunt, and after she steadies herself a couple of steps away, realizes that the punch has drawn first blood, a trickle of blood now evident from one of her nostrils, in stark contrast with her determined expression. Despite the nosebleed, Natasha refuses to back down. She wipes the blood away with the back of her glove and charges back into the fray! What a show! Meanwhile, of course, Sakhno is merely admiring her handiwork, goading her forwards with a smirk on her lips. The two clash again in the center, with Ivanna swinging for the fences, aiming to target Natasha’s injured face and put her down for good. But Natasha blurs through the pain, slipping and weaving to avoid before targeting the blonde’s body with side hooks that thud off her torso, forcing Ivanna back, wincing and losing her rhythm. As the round nears its end, the two fighters are locked in a battle of wills, each refusing to give the other an inch. Ivanna's face shows the strain of the fight, her breathing heavy, while Natasha, despite the blood from her nose, maintains a fierce and focused gaze for payback. The bell rings and both fighters step back, their chests heaving from the exertion, and the round is declared a draw!
ROUND 6:
Natasha’s nosebleed is checked on between rounds, but no matter what the trainers and doctor are saying in the Aussie’s corner, that determined expression on her face isn’t gonna be wiped away. The bleeding is stemmed and Natasha is already up from her stool, looking like she wants to start off aggressively and deliver her own show of crimson to her rival. Bell rings and here she comes! The first minute sees Natasha dominating the action, landing a series of sharp jabs, each one aimed at Ivanna's face. Ivanna, trying to dodge and weave, finds herself unable to avoid the sudden focused assault, specifically on her face. Each time the Ukrainian tries to beat her back with her own punches, Natasha simply absorbs them and simply punish her back with heavy hooks that land off her torso and head. Slowly, Sakhno’s beaten back towards the ropes, struggling to find a counter to the Fates fighter’s aggression and power! Another powerful blow lands on Ivanna's cheek, followed by a nasty straight cross to the nostrils! OUCH!! The impact is immediate and brutal, causing Ivanna's nose to bleed profusely. The sight of her own blood seems to shock Ivanna, her eyes widening in surprise and pain. It's soon clear that she's dazed and struggling to defend herself, and gets DROPPED by a final series of shots to her face! DOWN SHE GOES, lying on the canvas by the ropes stunned! This looks like it’s over!
Natasha gives herself a nod of triumph as she returns to the neutral corner, a wide smile plastered on her face, and her arms raised high in the air. Meanwhile, the referee hovers over a fallen Sakhno, with the blonde slowly pushing herself up to all fours, before rising back to her feet and recovering by the count of eight. It’s a testament to the actress’ own fighting spirit, but even as the referee signals for the continuation of this round, it's clear that she's dazed and struggling to defend herself.
And with the crowd at her back as the up-and-coming heroine, Natasha skirts in fast, looking for the finish! She PLOWS into Ivanna with a series of blows, the blonde now trapped against the ropes with nowhere else to go! Sakhno puts up a valiant defense, trying to block and cover her head up, but those strong hooks are wailing into her body and then shoving her arms bit by bit out of the way. Eventually, Ivanna's head snaps to the side after taking another painful hook clean across the face, before her body gets folded over by another invasive uppercut pummeled into the center tummy. Finally, the referee’s seen enough, with Ivanna's inability to effectively defend herself apparent! He steps in and covers the battered blonde! Which means that’s it! Natasha takes her third win via TKO!!
Official Result: Natasha Liu Bordizzo defeats Ivanna Sakhno via TKO6!
AFTER:
As the adrenaline of the fight subsides, a sense of mutual respect permeates the arena. Despite the grueling contest they've just endured, both women acknowledge each other's skill and determination with a sportsmanlike demeanor.
Physically, the toll of the intense battle is evident on both their bodies. Ivanna, still leaning against the ropes for support, has her face, marked by the nosebleed and several red welts. Her eyes, though reflecting the disappointment of defeat, also shine with the thrill of the battle. Her breathing is heavy, and she occasionally winces as the medics tend to her tender nose.
Natasha, on the other hand, stands victorious but not unscathed. Her own face bears the marks of Ivanna's aggressive offense, with a slight swelling under one eye and a reddened cheek. Her hair, once neatly tied into a bunch, is now disheveled, strands sticking to her forehead, damp with sweat. Despite the fatigue that sets in her muscles, her posture remains upright, celebrating with several fist pumps in the air.
In the aftermath of the fight, both women take a moment to address the crowd and the press. They express their respect for each other's abilities and hint at the possibility of a rematch, both in the ring and in a playful nod to their on-screen rivalry in the next season of the TV show.
"Natasha is an incredible fighter. She pushed me to my limits today," Ivanna says, her voice steady despite the fatigue. "I may have lost this round, but I'm already looking forward to our next encounter, both here and maybe again on screen," she adds with a hint of a smile, acknowledging their on-screen rivalry.
Natasha, standing tall despite the swelling under her eye, responds with equal grace. "This fight was intense, and I'm proud to have shared the ring with her. As for a rematch? Absolutely, both in the ring and on screen. I think our fans would love that," she concludes, her words eliciting cheers from the audience.
2. Guests: Ivanna Sakhno vs. Natasha Liu Bordizzo
Ivanna:
(26, 5’8, 1:0 FCBA, Free Agent)
Natasha:
(29, 5’7, 2:0 FCBA, Fates Boxing)
BEFORE:
Up next, reporters and fans have gathered for the pre-fight press conference, eagerly awaiting the arrival of competitors Ivanna Sakhno and Natasha Liu Bordizzo. The backdrop, adorned with posters of the recent hit television show "Ahsoka," sets the stage for the on-screen rivalry to unfold in the ring.
Ivanna makes her entrance first, the Ukrainian actress exuding confidence in a black mini-dress that highlights her athletic physique, her blonde hair cascading in loose waves, framing her face. She greets the crowd with a charming smile, her eyes alight with excitement and a competitive spark.
Natasha follows, her presence equally commanding. The Aussie actress is clad in a striking red jumpsuit, a nod to her character's fiery spirit on the show. Her dark hair is neatly tied back, accentuating her striking features. She carries herself with a composed air, her smile more measured as she gives plenty of waves to her fans.
As they take their seats, Ivanna breaks the ice, "It's thrilling to bring our on-screen rivalry into the ring. I kicked Natasha’s ass multiple times on set, and I'm sure she'll be just as easy to beat in the boxing ring."
Natasha responds with a flash of annoyance, but then with equal poise, "You’re talking about our battles on the set of 'Ahsoka', sure. They were intense, but everyone knows how scripted those set pieces were. You didn’t tell them how often I bested you during sparring and combat training."
As the press conference continues, the playful banter escalates. Ivanna leans in, "I've been training hard for this. Natasha, prepare to face a Sabine Wren who no longer has to hold back."
Natasha meets her gaze, unflinching, "I wouldn't expect anything less. But remember, Shin Hati always has a few tricks up her sleeve. You might be surprised."
Later on, the weigh-in and staredown become even more charged as both actresses strip down to nothing but their underwear, before striding up to each other on stage. Ivanna, only slightly taller, smirks at Natasha in a set of black lingerie, whereas Natasha stands her ground with her fists raised high, in a pair of red bra and briefs.
Both girls separate without incident, and we’d expect nothing less from a pair of professional Hollywood actresses. They haven’t YET descended into the madness of the FCBA, after all!
Hours later, the lights in the Rose Bowl dim, and the first to make her way to the ring is Ivanna Sakhno. The opening notes of "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor blare through the speakers, and Ivanna strides confidently down the aisle, dressed in a sleek, metallic blue boxing outfit. Her top is a sports bra, featuring silver accents along blue edges. Her shorts are equally eye-catching, made of the same metallic blue fabric with a high waistband that proudly displays her name in bold, silver letters. Her gloves are a matching blue, with silver trim, completing the striking look. As she approaches the ring, Ivanna shadowboxes, her movements sharp and precise.
Moments later, Natasha Liu Bordizzo makes her entrance to the pulsating beats of "Warrior" by Imagine Dragons. The crowd's roar intensifies as she appears in a vibrant red boxing ensemble with gold trim. Her red sports bra is marked by intricate gold patterns, resembling flames licked across the surface. Her shorts are a deeper shade of red with a gold trim extending down either side. Her gloves are also a bold red with gold accents. Her dark hair is braided tightly, keeping it secure and out of her face. As she walks towards the ring, Natasha's eyes are locked on Ivanna, and she too engages in a series of shadowboxing moves, her fists cutting through the air.
In the ring, both fighters engage in their final preparations. Ivanna bounces on her toes, rolling her shoulders, her eyes scanning the crowd before settling on the task ahead. Natasha, on the other side, takes deep breaths, closing her eyes momentarily to center herself, before opening them with renewed focus.
The referee calls them to the center of the ring for the final instructions. Ivanna and Natasha face each other, and then touch gloves in a show of reluctant sportsmanship, though the smack! of leather on leather is a little too loud and stiff. Then, they retreat to their respective corners, awaiting the bell!
There’s the wave of the referee’s hand and HERE WE GO with ten rounds of Bantamweight action!
ROUND 1:
The bell signals the start of the bout, and Ivanna, embodying her on-screen character's primal aggression, wastes no time in asserting her presence in the ring! She advances with a series of feints, her body swaying side to side, showcasing her agility. Her eyes, sharp and focused, are locked onto Natasha, who circles her with equal caution, mirroring the movements of a Jedi duel they are both so familiar with. Ivanna, channeling Hati’s impulsive nature, launches the first attack. She throws a quick jab, but it's a setup for her real intention—a powerful right cross. But Natasha, anticipating the move, employs her boxing training, parrying the jab and smoothly stepping to the side, causing Ivanna's cross to miss its mark. Undeterred, Ivanna continues her assault. She darts in and out, her footwork light and unpredictable. She manages to land a quick one-two combination, her gloves tapping against Natasha's guard. The impacts are light, but it's a clear message of Ivanna's speed and intent. Natasha, maintaining her composure, begins to find her own rhythm. She uses her head movement effectively, bobbing under Ivanna's jabs, looking for an opening. It comes when Ivanna overcommits to a left hook, and Natasha COUNTERS with a swift uppercut that slips through Ivanna's guard, connecting with her chin! OUCH! Ivanna's head snaps back, a grunt escaping her lips, but she quickly regains her footing, a flicker of respect in her eyes for Natasha's counter-striking ability. The round progresses with both fighters exchanging blows more confidently. Ivanna, sticking to her aggressive strategy, lands a solid body shot to the side, and Natasha absorbs the hit with her body tensing upon impact, but then fires back with a combination of her own that finds Ivanna's torso, the thuds of her punches indicating her growing confidence. In the final seconds, Ivanna ups the ante. She unleashes a flurry of punches, her gloves snapping towards Natasha's head and body. Natasha, however, showcases her agility, weaving and stepping back, avoiding the brunt of the onslaught. As the bell rings, Ivanna retreats to her corner, her breath steady. Natasha, on the other hand, walks back to her corner with a slight nod, acknowledging the competitive nature of the round. The close round might have gone to Ivanna, but the Aussie’s skillful defense and strategic counterattacks have set the stage for another chapter in this compelling duel.
ROUND 2:
Natasha initiates the action this time, throwing a series of quick jabs that keep Ivanna at bay. Ivanna looks eager to close the distance, trying to counter with her own heavy swing, but Natasha's improved footwork allows her to glide out of reach effortlessly. Each time Ivanna lunges forward, Natasha counters with agility, slipping her head to the side before shoving jabs back into Ivanna's face and body, drawing several shouts of surprise and grunts. Ivanna, undeterred, attempts to regain control. She throws a powerful right, aimed for the head, but Natasha again reads the move, ducking under the punch, and in a fluid motion, delivers a snappy hook that lands squarely on Ivanna's chin! Grunting, the short-haired blonde’s head jerks to the side, a look of surprise on her face and pain escaping her lips as she stumbles slightly, momentarily thrown off balance. And it’s a signal for Natasha to move in closer, her punches becoming more aggressive! She targets Ivanna's arms and body, multiple jabs thudding against Ivanna's ribs and abdomen. Ivanna's responses become slower, the impact of each hit visibly affecting her as she tries to shield herself and create distance! In the latter half of the round, Natasha's dominance becomes more pronounced. She traps Ivanna against the ropes, unleashing a barrage of short-ranged body shots into the cornered blonde. Ivanna, pinned and with limited room to maneuver, absorbs the punishment, her body folding left and right with each hit. She attempts to clinch multiple times, seeking a moment's respite, but Natasha skillfully maintains the distance, continuing to land clean, effective strikes to beat her back against the ropes. And as the round nears its end, one fighter looks worse for wear! Natasha walks back to her corner with a clear sense of accomplishment, her breathing controlled and her focus unwavering. Ivanna, on the other hand, looks visibly shaken as she returns to her corner. The round has taken its toll, her breathing heavier, and a look of concern crosses her face as her corner team works to reinvigorate her for the next round. Natasha's tactical approach and effective counter-striking have earned her a wide margin in this round, setting a challenging pace for Ivanna to match in the upcoming rounds.
ROUND 3:
Soon, however, Ivanna's strategy pays off early in the round. She feints a jab to Natasha's head, causing her to raise her guard, before swiftly changing her target and landing a solid hook to the actress’ side. The impact is audible, a sharp "thwack" that echoes in the ring, and Natasha winces, momentarily thrown off by the unexpected body shot. Encouraged by this success, Ivanna increases her aggression, starting to close the distance, her movements more and more confident. More punches land high and low, the Ukrainian actress landing them in fast bunches, and Natasha tries to counter, but can’t keep up with Ivanna's speed and pressure. A series of jabs land on Natasha's face, each one snapping her head back slightly, forcing her to move back and try to create more space between them. However, Ivanna's relentless pursuit keeps the pressure on. Another heavy hook streaks into the side, this time targeting Natasha's ribs with a dull thud! Natasha grimaces, her body bending slightly to absorb the blow. As the round progresses, it’s Ivanna’s turn to corner Natasha against one corner of the ring, trapping her against the ropes with flurries of punches. Natasha defends herself by covering her head in her arms, but Ivanna's gloves simply smack and thud into her stomach and arms, and occasionally slipping through to connect with her face. In the final minute of the round, Ivanna lands a left hook to the cheek, followed by a right straight that lands squarely on her nose, snapping Natasha's head back and making her stumble backward, clearly dazed by the force of the blows! For a second, it looks like this might be it, but Natasha initiates a clinch by avoiding a brutal haymaker and instead wrapping up with her co-star! She’s breathing heavily on the shoulder, looking dazed, but at least she’s still standing! The bell rings and both fighters roughly shove off each other! Ivanna steps back, her chest heaving from the exertion but her eyes shining with the thrill of the fight. She has clearly won this round by a wide margin, her aggressive and tactical approach paying off. Natasha, on the other hand, looks visibly affected as she returns to her corner.
ROUND 4:
Round 4 and this battle is already resembling one of their many duels on screen, and with both women facing off with their arms up and circling, the only things that are missing are their orange and green lightsabers. From the opening bell, Natasha charges forward, determined to win the round back by putting on the pressure. Several jab combos fly forward towards Ivanna's face, each punch thrown with the intent to harass and hurt. But Ivanna, not one to back down, meets the aggression head-on. She counters with her own jab-cross combos, landing several shots of her own clean to the nose and lips, some at the expense of her own defenses. The exchange between the two is fierce and unyielding, drawing the crowd’s rising tempo and roars. Ivanna lands a particularly sharp right hook to the top of Natasha's temple, causing her to stagger momentarily to the side. However, she quickly regains her footing, avoids a follow-up swing from the blonde before shoving another fist straight into Ivanna's face as a counterattack. Another right cross follows right after, which snaps Ivanna's head back. The impact of Natasha's gloves is evident in Ivanna's expression, a mix of surprise and pain as she absorbs the hit, and as the rest of the round progresses, the intensity only increases. Both fighters exchange heavy blows in tandem, their faces showing the strain of the battle. Ivanna's nose is now reddened, a testament to Natasha's precise strikes. Natasha, on the other hand, sports a swelling under her left eye, a souvenir from her powerful hooks. And in a moment that harks back to their lightsaber duels, both fighters simultaneously land heavy blows to each other's faces. The impact sends them both reeling back, taking a brief pause, before regaining their composure and diving back into the fray, their rivalry driving them to push their limits. As the round nears its end, Natasha manages to gain a slight upper hand. She pushes Ivanna back towards the ropes, unleashing a series of combinations that leave her opponent guessing. Sakhno tries to rally but can barely fend off all the punches at once. And thankfully, the bell rings soon after, signaling an intense round marked by more intense moments. Natasha's round win is close, but her ability to land more effective strikes in the latter part of the round gives her the edge!
ROUND 5:
As the bell rings, both actresses waste no time in engaging, moving towards each other with a purpose! At first, it looked like both of them were gonna play it safe and take a breather. But once in range, they seem to throw caution to the wind, straight away shooting in lefts and rights, targeting the face and head, and when those punches meet the guard instead, instinctively go south to the body. Ivanna is still the more aggressive of the pair, dipping her head and shoulders left and right, avoiding some of Natasha’s punches with ease, before squeezing in a beautiful right cross straight into the Aussie brunette’s nostrils! Ouch!! Natasha’s head snaps backwards with a grunt, and after she steadies herself a couple of steps away, realizes that the punch has drawn first blood, a trickle of blood now evident from one of her nostrils, in stark contrast with her determined expression. Despite the nosebleed, Natasha refuses to back down. She wipes the blood away with the back of her glove and charges back into the fray! What a show! Meanwhile, of course, Sakhno is merely admiring her handiwork, goading her forwards with a smirk on her lips. The two clash again in the center, with Ivanna swinging for the fences, aiming to target Natasha’s injured face and put her down for good. But Natasha blurs through the pain, slipping and weaving to avoid before targeting the blonde’s body with side hooks that thud off her torso, forcing Ivanna back, wincing and losing her rhythm. As the round nears its end, the two fighters are locked in a battle of wills, each refusing to give the other an inch. Ivanna's face shows the strain of the fight, her breathing heavy, while Natasha, despite the blood from her nose, maintains a fierce and focused gaze for payback. The bell rings and both fighters step back, their chests heaving from the exertion, and the round is declared a draw!
ROUND 6:
Natasha’s nosebleed is checked on between rounds, but no matter what the trainers and doctor are saying in the Aussie’s corner, that determined expression on her face isn’t gonna be wiped away. The bleeding is stemmed and Natasha is already up from her stool, looking like she wants to start off aggressively and deliver her own show of crimson to her rival. Bell rings and here she comes! The first minute sees Natasha dominating the action, landing a series of sharp jabs, each one aimed at Ivanna's face. Ivanna, trying to dodge and weave, finds herself unable to avoid the sudden focused assault, specifically on her face. Each time the Ukrainian tries to beat her back with her own punches, Natasha simply absorbs them and simply punish her back with heavy hooks that land off her torso and head. Slowly, Sakhno’s beaten back towards the ropes, struggling to find a counter to the Fates fighter’s aggression and power! Another powerful blow lands on Ivanna's cheek, followed by a nasty straight cross to the nostrils! OUCH!! The impact is immediate and brutal, causing Ivanna's nose to bleed profusely. The sight of her own blood seems to shock Ivanna, her eyes widening in surprise and pain. It's soon clear that she's dazed and struggling to defend herself, and gets DROPPED by a final series of shots to her face! DOWN SHE GOES, lying on the canvas by the ropes stunned! This looks like it’s over!
Natasha gives herself a nod of triumph as she returns to the neutral corner, a wide smile plastered on her face, and her arms raised high in the air. Meanwhile, the referee hovers over a fallen Sakhno, with the blonde slowly pushing herself up to all fours, before rising back to her feet and recovering by the count of eight. It’s a testament to the actress’ own fighting spirit, but even as the referee signals for the continuation of this round, it's clear that she's dazed and struggling to defend herself.
And with the crowd at her back as the up-and-coming heroine, Natasha skirts in fast, looking for the finish! She PLOWS into Ivanna with a series of blows, the blonde now trapped against the ropes with nowhere else to go! Sakhno puts up a valiant defense, trying to block and cover her head up, but those strong hooks are wailing into her body and then shoving her arms bit by bit out of the way. Eventually, Ivanna's head snaps to the side after taking another painful hook clean across the face, before her body gets folded over by another invasive uppercut pummeled into the center tummy. Finally, the referee’s seen enough, with Ivanna's inability to effectively defend herself apparent! He steps in and covers the battered blonde! Which means that’s it! Natasha takes her third win via TKO!!
Official Result: Natasha Liu Bordizzo defeats Ivanna Sakhno via TKO6!
AFTER:
As the adrenaline of the fight subsides, a sense of mutual respect permeates the arena. Despite the grueling contest they've just endured, both women acknowledge each other's skill and determination with a sportsmanlike demeanor.
Physically, the toll of the intense battle is evident on both their bodies. Ivanna, still leaning against the ropes for support, has her face, marked by the nosebleed and several red welts. Her eyes, though reflecting the disappointment of defeat, also shine with the thrill of the battle. Her breathing is heavy, and she occasionally winces as the medics tend to her tender nose.
Natasha, on the other hand, stands victorious but not unscathed. Her own face bears the marks of Ivanna's aggressive offense, with a slight swelling under one eye and a reddened cheek. Her hair, once neatly tied into a bunch, is now disheveled, strands sticking to her forehead, damp with sweat. Despite the fatigue that sets in her muscles, her posture remains upright, celebrating with several fist pumps in the air.
In the aftermath of the fight, both women take a moment to address the crowd and the press. They express their respect for each other's abilities and hint at the possibility of a rematch, both in the ring and in a playful nod to their on-screen rivalry in the next season of the TV show.
"Natasha is an incredible fighter. She pushed me to my limits today," Ivanna says, her voice steady despite the fatigue. "I may have lost this round, but I'm already looking forward to our next encounter, both here and maybe again on screen," she adds with a hint of a smile, acknowledging their on-screen rivalry.
Natasha, standing tall despite the swelling under her eye, responds with equal grace. "This fight was intense, and I'm proud to have shared the ring with her. As for a rematch? Absolutely, both in the ring and on screen. I think our fans would love that," she concludes, her words eliciting cheers from the audience.