The Ultimate Fighter 27 episode 7: Team Cormier is cursed
Only two fights left in the quarterfinals of The Ultimate Fighter: Undefeated. The next matchup pairs Team Cormier’s Richie Smullen versus Team Miocic’s Allan Zuniga. But a curse may change plans.
In a week that contained Michael Bisping’s retirement, a man known for his massive heart, there couldn’t be a more bizarre episode for The Ultimate Fighter: Undefeated. The competition is heating up, and there are a few uncertainties leftover. Including injuries.
Additionally, doctors get more air time than normal this episode. If something could go wrong, it does. Fighting is a rough profession, and even those who win can end up sidelined for extended periods. So what will happen when a Team Cormier grappler tangles with a Team Miocic striker?
Team Cormier
Ricky Steele (FW) is back from the doctor. With crutches. And a boot. Things do not look promising. Everyone is worried, and then he relays the doctor’s diagnosis: contusions. That’s it. Next fight he might have to avoid kicks somewhat. If so, I recommend “paint a fence” or “sand a floor.” He can barely walk, and Thug Nasty is straight up bringing him breakfast in bed. Much like Luis Peña, the vultures are circling for the chance to take his spot. His post-concussion issues, however, are too much, and the neurologist doesn’t clear him for the next fight.
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As for the upcoming fight, what everyone needs to know about Richie Smullen is that his own teammates are afraid of him. And they’re even more concerned for Allan Zuniga because Allan has a tendency to avoid tapping. If Richie gets a heel hook, Allan might just end up with a serious injury.
Like most of the guys on the show, family inspires Richie. His daughter and girlfriend mean the most to him. Based on his interview, however, it appears that training consumes much more time than family.
Team Miocic
Allan is impressing Coach Miocic, but the language barrier is difficult. The last time there was a language barrier on The Ultimate Fighter the fighter got butchered. The game-plan for Allan is to just push the pace and avoid leg locks on the ground. Miocic feels comfortable, but Allan’s interview process makes it very clear he’s wanting to stand and fight.
Allan’s home video shows him looking at crocodiles in the river, snatching snakes up around the area, visiting his turtles, and living in what appears to be a paradise with a raging river nearby. When he isn’t taking care of his reptiles or hanging out at the beach, he’s at what he calls the best MMA academy in Costa Rica.
Pre-fight tidbits
Richie Smullen
The plan is to walk forward, get it to the ground, and snatch a leg.
Allan Zuniga
Shocker, it’s the opposite for Allan. Stand up and kickbox.
Weigh in
- TUF 27
- default
Richie Smullen VS. Allan Zuniga
3-0-1
RECORD
13-0
5'9%22
WEIGHT
~5'10%22
155
HEIGHT
155
~69%22
REACH
~70%22
Before the fight can happen, however, Richie has a massive issue with calf cramps. It’s bizarre. Nobody knows what’s wrong. Bananas, hydration, weight cut, nerves. Maybe all of the above. After a 30-minute window, he’s out. Dana watches him limp and it’s over. Allan gets a win via default.
The crazy thing is, Allan appears to be more upset than Richie. Allan is crying and frustrated because he needs to bonus money.
Next: Karate Kid wins via points
There is one last quarterfinal fight on The Ultimate Fighter: Undefeated. Team Miocic’s Dulani Perry (FW) will take on the #1 pick in the entire competition, Tyler Diamond (FW). The next episode airs Wednesday, June 6 on Fox Sports.