Ep 7. Eyes on the Prize

Eyes on the Prize is the seventh episode of the 21st season of The Ultimate Fighter. This episode follows the latest in a series of bouts between two rival gyms: American Top Team and the Blackzilians. Because both teams have been trading wins back and forth, the stakes are higher than ever in this seventh matchup.

The episode opens with the Blackzilians reeling from their last loss, which came in a close decision. Coach Glenn Robinson stresses the importance of staying focused, telling his fighters that "this is where champions are made." Standard preseason workouts follow, with each fighter training hard and pushing themselves to the limit. Meanwhile, the American Top Team is riding high after their last win over the Blackzilians. Focused and determined, they put in just as much work as their opponents, drilling takedowns and submissions to prepare for the next battle.

One of the most interesting segments of the episode is devoted to the relationship between coach Robinson and one of his fighters, Michael Graves. Graves is shown in the gym, struggling with his weight and visibly frustrated. Throughout the show, he struggles to adapt to coach Robinson's coaching style, which is much more aggressive and in-your-face than he is used to. At one point, Graves breaks down in tears as he confesses to Robinson that he's been struggling with alcoholism. Robinson immediately offers his support and extends a helping hand to help Graves recover and get back on track.

As the day of the bout approaches, both teams are feeling the pressure. In the American Top Team locker room, fighters are rallying each other up with motivational speeches and reminders of the importance of the match. At the same time, in the Blackzilians' locker room, Coach Robinson is trying to calm his fighters down and keep them focused. A palpable sense of tension fills the air as the fighters begin to make their way to the ring.

The fight itself is intense and closely contested. Both fighters are incredibly skilled and evenly matched, with neither able to gain a clear advantage. Each round sees both fighters land a series of punishing blows, as the crowd roars in appreciation. As the final round approaches, the fighters are both exhausted and attempting to make desperate moves to gain the upper hand. In the end, the bout goes to the judges' scorecard, with a razor-thin margin of victory for the fighter representing American Top Team.

Despite the loss, the Blackzilians remain determined. Coach Robinson reminds them that they are all "champions in their own right," and that they need to stay focused and dedicated if they want to succeed. Meanwhile, the American Top Team celebrates their victory, knowing that they have taken one step closer to achieving their goal of winning the entire competition.

Overall, Eyes on the Prize is a gripping and intense episode that expertly captures the excitement and drama of The Ultimate Fighter. With high stakes and incredible athleticism on display, it's a must-watch for any MMA fan.