Steve Berger (12 – 10 – 2) vs. Fritz Paul (5 – 0)
Originally scheduled to face different opponents, an unforeseen change in plans placed these two game fighters across the ring from one another. Matched up only days before the fight, the two competitors in different weight classes agreed to battle it out at the Middleweight level, with Welterweight Steve Berger giving up a minor weight difference.
But both came ready and willing to fight, and it showed in the ring. They came out fast and hard, with UFC veteran Berger connecting first with a series of fierce strikes. Paul answered back with solid knees to the body. In a failed takedown attempt, Berger momentarily left his back dangerously exposed, but Paul was unable to capitalize, allowing Berger to reverse the position, landing in Paul’s guard and using the opportunity to rain down strikes.
After standing back up, Paul was able to score a takedown, but could not keep Berger down, as he easily took the fight back to their feet before getting a takedown of his own, landing in side control on Paul.
From the side position, Berger was able to secure Paul’s arm between his legs in a tight armbar, tapping him at 4:26 of Round 1. Both fighters should be applauded for their performance, and for agreeing to be matched up on such short notice. Steve Berger should be commended in particular for, not only winning the bout, but also for stepping up a weight class on only a few days notice in order to make this fight happen.
