You Can’t Miss Luke Simonds vs. Alan Klingbeil 2 at Power Slap 13
Read Time:6 Minute, 6 Second
Power Slap 13 is quickly making its mark by showcasing high-impact matchups with real stakes, despite the league still being in its early stages. This stacked event features three title matches across the Super Heavyweight, Light Heavyweight, and Middleweight divisions. But, the one matchup that stands out is the grudge rematch that could decide the next title challenger.
With rankings, history, and redemption on the line, Luke “Lethal Strike” Simonds vs. Alan “The Kryptonian” Klingbeil is a matchup fans, and perhaps even the champion, will be watching closely.
The First Encounter
In their first encounter at Power Slap: Road to the Title, Season 3, Episode 11, Simonds faced veteran Klingbeil in his second match of the season, shortly after Klingbeil joined the house midseason.
Both fighters were docked a point for fouls, which ultimately resulted in a split decision victory for Simonds. Now, nearly eight months later, they are set to meet again. Leading up to their first fight, the trash talk was intense. Simonds boasted about training his slap for just two days before his debut knockout, while Klingbeil needed two matches to score his first KO. Simonds boldly declared the division would be his, while Klingbeil’s outspoken nature on the Slap Stage sparked lively back-and-forths.
The rivalry even ignited a debate between coaches Austin Turpin and Robert Trujillo, with Trujillo criticizing Turpin’s preparation, suggesting his fighters would foul less with better training—a common theme among veteran slap fighters throughout the season.
Round-by-Round Breakdown
Simonds struck first and landed a clean shot but was called for a stepping foul. When Klingbeil stepped up, he landed a clean strike with no foul and earned a strong reaction. Round one went 10-8 for Klingbeil. The second round began with a foul-free strike from Simonds that left a mark on Klingbeil’s cheek. Despite this, coach Trujillo told Klingbeil, “Now that it’s clean, it’s weaker,” as he prepared to strike. “The Kryptonian” then landed a solid shot in a very close round.
In the third round, Simonds landed his best strike yet, causing Klingbeil to flinch and follow up with another strong strike. Klingbeil then stepped up, talking trash, and landed a powerful slap but lost a point for a foul. Round three went 10-8 for Simonds.
This left the match hinging on the second round, where the judges were split on the winner. Ultimately, the mark on Klingbeil’s face likely influenced the decision in Simonds’ favor. In the post-match interview, Klingbeil said, “If I had just shut up and delivered the [last] slap, I would have won that match.” Both fighters showed respect and motivation after a tough battle, ready for their rematch.
The Aftermath
After that fight, Simonds stayed active, scoring a first-round KO over TJ Thomas at Power Slap 10 and quickly following up with a second-round KO of Garrett Blakeslee at Power Slap 11. Klingbeil, meanwhile, has been inactive, waiting for this rematch of a fight he feels he should have won.
Now, with months to prepare and reflect, both fighters enter this rematch with plenty to prove. Simonds is ranked #4 at Light Heavyweight, while Klingbeil holds the 6th spot at 205 pounds. This is a true number one contender bout. The current champion, Wolverine, has faced all of the division’s top three fighters. If he defends his title on June 27th, fresh challengers will be needed, making this matchup a prime opportunity for both strikers.
With impressive Power Slap records on the line, it’s no surprise this fight is on the main card of Power Slap 13. When a match has real title implications, it demands your attention. Both fighters have proven they can take and deliver powerful shots. Simonds, a bodybuilder and fitness trainer, is young and rapidly improving his skills. Klingbeil, an actor, brings his big personality and long reach to the slap stage.
So, What Can We Expect in the Rematch?
If one were to guess, similar to their last match. Simonds has shown in the past that he is a slow. Sometimes, he needs to find his range and get hit first before unleashing the “Lethal Strike”. “The Kryptonian” will bring his whip-like arm action to the stage and look to unleash his power. The biggest difference may be in who strikes first. If Klingbeil strikes first, that may alter how the proceeding shots will land.
What we do know is that both men can take a shot and give one. Simonds generally absorbs damage well, but his recent knockdown raises questions about the durability of his chin. This is a potential concern given his young age of 26. We also know that Simonds has been in the gym getting stronger and more technical in his chase for the championship. So, one may expect growth in his game.
For Klingbeil he wears damage on his face, which we have seen in numerous matches. Like his first match with Simonds, this could have been to his detriment despite not being dropped. He will want to get Simonds hurt early and take him out to ensure the judges won’t be involved this time. With the motivation of revenge on his mind, the early lean may go to Klingbeil, seeing how the first match went down.
Despite this, activity in this sport is important. Simonds has remained active, and despite not competing since January, he has had ample time to improve and prepare for this opportunity. Klingbeil hasn’t competed since their October showdown, and that layoff could lead to ring rust. This may lead to ring rust, and after a foul led to his last loss, there is a risk that those flaws have yet to be fixed.
Hometown Advantage?
This card takes place in Las Vegas, Simonds’ hometown, so you can expect plenty of hometown support in the arena. It will also be Klingbeil’s crowded arena debut with the promotion—he has only competed at the UFC Apex so far, while Simonds’ last two matches were on the road, in front of a live crowd.
With the comfort of the environment and confidence from their first fight, the psychological edge leans toward Simonds. Klingbeil has a two-inch height advantage and is six years older. There are many factors at play in this matchup, and anticipation is high as Power Slap 13 approaches. In this rematch, fans can expect a clean, competitive fight showcasing some of the best in the Light Heavyweight division.
Final Prediction
Expect both men to land clean strikes, and possibly see one or both hit the ground. Both athletes have great technique and typically don’t foul outside their matches with each other. Heading into the rematch, this was likely a major focus for both. Also, expect the smack talk to continue and even escalate.
In conclusion, while both fighters bring power and personality to the stage, Simonds seems to have the edge in technique and momentum. Klingbeil remains a dangerous, motivated contender, but Simonds’ youth, recent activity, and hometown advantage could tip the scales.
Expect a hard-fought rematch, clean technique, and maybe some drama. If Simonds wins, don’t be surprised if he calls for a title shot at Power Slap 15.
Prediction: Simonds via Unanimous Decision
Happy
38 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
38 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
23 %
About Post Author
