Submission Underground 20 (2020)

Submission Underground 20 (SUG 20) unfolds on the evening of December 30, 2020, in an undisclosed indoor venue--likely a studio or arena setting in Portland, Oregon--transformed into a battleground for elite grappling athletes. The event, streamed live on UFC Fight Pass starting at 6 p.m. EST, is the final major grappling competition of the tumultuous year, promising high-stakes submission-only matches under the watchful eyes of fans and commentators alike.

The broadcast opens with the familiar hum of anticipation, the announcer's voice cutting through the charged atmosphere as fighters are introduced one by one. There are no scripted speeches or dramatic backstories; the focus is purely on the athletes' skills and the imminent clashes on the mat. The camera pans across the competitors warming up, their faces a mix of steely determination and quiet confidence.

First to enter the spotlight is Richie "Boogieman" Martinez, known for his inventive and aggressive grappling style. He steps onto the mat with a calm intensity, ready to face UFC veteran CB Dolloway, who is making his Submission Underground debut. The match begins with both fighters probing for openings, but Martinez's technical prowess quickly asserts itself. Within regulation time, Martinez secures a precise armbar, forcing Dolloway to tap out. The crowd reacts with a mix of surprise and admiration at the swift finish, setting the tone for the night's relentless pace.

Next, the spotlight shifts to Craig Jones, the grappling sensation returning from a brief hiatus. His opponent is Satoshi Ishii, an Olympic gold medalist in judo and seasoned MMA veteran. The match is a clash of styles--Jones's slick no-gi grappling against Ishii's powerful judo base. The tension builds as they grapple for control, the crowd holding its breath with every transition. Eventually, Jones capitalizes on a momentary lapse, securing a rear naked choke that forces Ishii to submit within regulation time. Jones's triumphant expression reveals a mix of relief and renewed purpose, silencing any doubts about his future in the promotion.

Meanwhile, Gabriel Gonzaga, the former UFC heavyweight known for his resilience and submission skills, faces Hunter Colvin in a featured bout. The match is a grueling test of endurance and technique, pushing both men to their limits. Regulation time expires without a submission, sending the match into the EBI overtime format. In the first OT round, Gonzaga's experience shines through as he locks in a tight armbar, compelling Colvin to tap. The victory is hard-fought and hard-earned, underscoring Gonzaga's adaptability and mental toughness.

Pearl Gonzalez and Gillian Robertson, two fierce female competitors, square off in a match that showcases the rising talent in women's grappling. Robertson's aggressive approach pays off as she secures an armbar submission over Gonzalez within regulation time, adding another highlight to the night's lineup.

As the undercard bouts unfold, the energy in the venue intensifies, building toward the climactic main event. The announcer's voice rises with excitement as Mason Fowler, the defending Submission Underground Absolute Champion, makes his entrance. Fowler is a figure of calm confidence, his reputation as a three-time Absolute Champion preceding him. Across the mat stands Ryan Bader, the Bellator Heavyweight World Champion, returning for his second SUG appearance after a previous win at SUG 19. The stakes are clear: Fowler's title is on the line, and Bader is determined to claim it.

The referee signals the start, and the two titans engage immediately, their movements a blur of technique and strategy. Fowler's grappling is precise and relentless, his eyes locked on the opportunity to finish. Within 1 minute and 39 seconds, Fowler executes a flawless armbar, wrenching Bader's arm into submission. The crowd erupts as Bader taps, and Fowler retains his Absolute Championship for the third consecutive time. Fowler's expression is one of quiet satisfaction, a testament to his dominance in the grappling world.

Throughout the event, every main card match ends decisively by submission, emphasizing the promotion's commitment to submission-only grappling and the athletes' finishing abilities. The absence of decisions or stalling matches keeps the momentum high, each bout a showcase of skill, endurance, and tactical acumen.

As the final match concludes, the broadcast transitions to post-fight interviews and highlights. Mason Fowler, still clutching the championship belt, reflects on his victory, acknowledging the challenge posed by Ryan Bader and the caliber of competition throughout the night. Craig Jones, Richie Martinez, Gabriel Gonzaga, and Gillian Robertson also share their thoughts, each expressing respect for their opponents and pride in their performances.

Submission Underground 20 closes the year on a high note, delivering a night of intense grappling battles marked by technical mastery and decisive finishes. The event leaves fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the evolving saga of Submission Underground, with champions reaffirmed and challengers poised for future glory.

In the ending of Submission Underground 20, the final matches culminate in intense grappling bouts, showcasing the skills and determination of the fighters. The event concludes with a climactic showdown, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats as the competitors push their limits. The film wraps up with a sense of camaraderie among the fighters, despite the fierce competition, highlighting their shared passion for the sport.

As the final matches unfold, the atmosphere in the arena is electric, filled with the sounds of cheers and the palpable tension of anticipation. The camera pans across the audience, capturing their excitement and the energy that fills the space. The announcer's voice booms over the loudspeakers, introducing the last competitors, each of whom has fought hard to reach this point.

The first match features two skilled grapplers, both of whom have shown remarkable resilience throughout the event. As they step onto the mat, the focus is on their intense expressions, revealing their determination and the weight of the moment. The match begins with a flurry of movement, each fighter attempting to gain the upper hand. The audience watches in awe as they execute complex techniques, their bodies glistening with sweat, muscles straining with effort. The tension builds as the fighters exchange holds and counters, each moment more thrilling than the last.

In a pivotal moment, one fighter manages to secure a dominant position, applying a submission hold that seems almost inescapable. The other fighter struggles, their face a mix of determination and desperation. The crowd holds its breath, the atmosphere thick with anticipation. Just as it seems the match is about to end, the struggling fighter finds a way to escape, showcasing their grit and skill. The audience erupts in cheers, the energy in the room reaching a fever pitch.

As the match progresses, both fighters display incredible stamina, pushing through fatigue and pain. The camera captures close-ups of their faces, revealing the emotional stakes of the competition. Each fighter is not just battling their opponent but also confronting their own limits, fears, and aspirations. The match concludes with a dramatic finish, one fighter emerging victorious, their expression a mix of relief and triumph. The defeated fighter, though disappointed, shows respect and sportsmanship, acknowledging the skill of their opponent.

The final moments of the event bring all the fighters together on the mat, where they share a moment of camaraderie. Despite the fierce competition, there is a sense of unity among them, a recognition of the hard work and dedication that each has put into their craft. The camera captures their smiles and embraces, emphasizing the bonds formed through their shared experiences in the sport.

As the credits roll, the audience is left with a sense of inspiration, witnessing not just the physical battles but also the emotional journeys of the fighters. Each character, whether victorious or defeated, has grown through the experience, embodying the spirit of resilience and the love of grappling that defines Submission Underground 20.

Submission Underground 20 does not feature a post-credit scene. The film concludes after the final match, wrapping up the events without any additional scenes or content during or after the credits. The focus remains on the intense grappling and competition that defines the Submission Underground series, leaving no further narrative developments or surprises for viewers after the main events have concluded.

The main character, a skilled grappler, is driven by a desire to prove themselves in the underground fighting scene, seeking validation and respect from peers. Their internal struggle revolves around balancing personal ambition with the emotional toll of the brutal competition.

The rivalry intensifies as both fighters face off in a series of matches, each encounter revealing deeper layers of their personalities and motivations. Tension builds through taunts and psychological warfare, culminating in a climactic showdown that tests their limits.

The underground setting serves as a crucible for the characters, forcing them to confront their fears and insecurities. The gritty environment amplifies their emotional states, pushing them to make choices that reveal their true selves, often leading to moments of vulnerability.

Supporting characters, including trainers and fellow fighters, provide crucial guidance and challenge the main character's beliefs. Their interactions often serve as catalysts for growth, pushing the protagonist to confront their weaknesses and evolve throughout the competition.

The main character faces a series of physical and mental challenges during the matches, including grappling with opponents who exploit their weaknesses, dealing with injuries, and overcoming self-doubt. Each match tests their resilience and determination, shaping their journey in the underground scene.

Submission Underground 20 is not considered family-friendly due to its focus on competitive grappling and submission wrestling. The film features intense physical confrontations, which may include:

1. Violence and Physical Aggression: The matches showcase grappling techniques that can appear aggressive and may be unsettling for younger viewers or those sensitive to violence.

2. Mature Themes: The competitive nature of the sport can lead to emotional tension, showcasing the pressure and stress athletes face, which might be difficult for children to understand.

3. Adult Language: There may be instances of strong language used by competitors and commentators, which could be inappropriate for younger audiences.

4. Intense Emotional Moments: The film captures the highs and lows of competition, including moments of defeat and frustration, which could be upsetting for sensitive viewers.

Overall, the film's content is geared towards an adult audience, focusing on the sport's intensity and the personal journeys of the competitors.