TUF ‘The Smashes’ Episode 10 Recap: Coaches Fight It Out On the Speedway

TUF The Smashes Episode 10 opened with both teams returning to the house after Brad Scott’s tough three-round win over Australian Ben Alloway.

Team UK went through a grueling strength and conditioning workout with a Queensland Rugby coach as they prepare for the semifinal bouts.

The teams went to the Sydney Speedway for a coaches challenge between George Sotiropoulos and Ross Pearson, who competed in a demolition derby for $10,000 and national pride. Sotiropoulos took control of the derby before Pearson had a clean hit after Sotiropoulos missed a gear, which caused smoke to come from the Australian’s car, with Pearson winning the challenge

UK fighters Brendan Loughnane and Norman Parke are due to meet in the semis and coach Ross Pearson said he’s trained both fighters fairly in the lead-up to the clash. Brendan Loughnane weighed in first at 155.5 pounds, while Norman Parke was slightly heavier at 156 pounds.

Brendan Loughnane vs. Norman Parke:

Round 1- Both fighters open with leg kicks, but it is Loughnane who lands the first shot. Parke moves forward, but Loughnane goes back behind his jab. Parke has Loughnane backpedaling and ties his opponent up against the cage. Parke slams Loughnane to the mat, but Loughnane is able to bring it back standing and breaks free. Loughnane lands some heavy shots late in the round and has the better of the stand up. 10-9 Parke.

Round 2- Parke shoots in early, clinching Loughnane against the cage, and gets the takedown. Parke cuts Loughnane open with elbows from guard as Loughnane looks to land from his back. Loughnane gets the fight back to the feet, but Parke again ties him up, but they’re back to standing. After two quick jabs coming in, Parke scores another takedown, but Loughnane again returns to his feet and works behind his jab to the bell. 10-9 Parke.

Round 3: Loughnane backs up Parke, who reverses the position and has Loughnane in a clinch against the cage. Loughnane lands a stiff jab followed by a kick. Parke looks for another takedown before backing up Loughnane. Needing a knockout Loughnane moved forward looking for the kill, but Parke regains control of the fight and both fighters trade to the final bell.

Norman Parke def. Brendan Loughnane via Unanimous Decision.

“This fight has been the hardest of my career,” Parke said.

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