Power Slap 14 is set to ignite in New Orleans, and one of the most compelling matchups in the light heavyweight division will see Tyler “The Northman” Gross return to face Vince Tracy in a battle that could shake up the bottom half of the rankings in a big way.
“I took what Vince had, and I’m sure he wants it back,” Gross told Slap News. “We’re only going up from here.”
After defeating Sean Kilmartin in Saudi Arabia, Tyler Gross has cracked the top 10, bumping Vince down in the process. With momentum on his side and a renewed sense of purpose, Gross is aiming to prove that his rise is no fluke.
Laser-Focused and Battle-Tested
Gross, who admits to battling personal challenges after Season 3, says he’s now in a clearer headspace and laser-focused on climbing the Power Slap ladder.
“There’s always burdens. But I proved in Saudi Arabia what I can do when I’m properly trained. Now, I’m just excited and ready.”
Height Advantage and Tactical Preparation
This bout marks a noticeable change in opponent dynamics. At 6’2”, Tyler towers over Vince Tracy (5’8”), just as he did over Kilmartin (6’4”). The height gap is a factor both fighters are training to adjust to.
“It’d be foolish not to prepare for that. I’ve trained for taller guys, now it’s time to refine my shot mechanics for a shorter target. This is going to be my first time unleashing my new, properly trained technique at that angle.”
Signature Slap: From Hawaiian Influence to Berserker Precision
While many associate Gross’s technique with the Hawaiian style, he says it’s evolved into something completely his own.
“It’s a signature shot now. It started there, but it’s been refined, flared, and fully built into my own weapon. We’re still deciding whether it’s a One or a Two, but the shot itself is dialed in.”
Keys to Victory: Outsmart the Tactician
Gross acknowledges that Vince Tracy’s biggest weapon isn’t just physical—it’s mental.
“Vince is the tactician. His work starts in the mind. So I’ve got to match that. This is as much a psychological war as it is a physical one.”
No Excuses—Just Beard Adjustments
Known for his long beard, Gross has made it clear he’s trimming and tying it to avoid any controversy around target visibility.
“I’ve chopped off four inches and cleaned up the sides. I want a clean fight—no excuses. The better man will win.”
Respect for Vince—but No Mercy
Despite the competitive stakes, there’s mutual respect between Gross and Tracy. The two even speak on the phone and have acknowledged one another’s work ethic.
“We’re the two coming up. Nobody in the bottom half is grinding like we are. After this match, it won’t be the bottom anymore. It’ll be a war. Somebody might get carried off that stage—or we both walk away with respect for a three-round battle.”
On Learning from the Past
Gross knows the risks of underestimating any opponent. Referencing Luke Simons’ recent loss to Allen Klingbeil, he says he’s learned from others’ mistakes.
“In Saudi Arabia, Sean wrote me off before he met me. That was a big mistake. Vince will be taken seriously, and I’ll come at him like he just fought two months ago. Always 100%.”
Goals: From Underdog to Title Contender
Gross has his eyes set on a dramatic rise through the rankings.
“I want to break into the top 3 or top 5 by the end of the year. If I stay active, I could be talking about a match with Anthony Blackburn before long. Just made it into the top 10, but I’m coming for the top.”
Final Message to Vince Tracy
“Vince, buddy, you’re the tactician—but I’m a berserker. Be ready when we hit that stage. All love before, all love after, but it’s going to be war.”
Power Slap 14 takes place July 18 in New Orleans, and Tyler Gross vs. Vince Tracy is poised to be a dark horse candidate for Fight of the Night. The rankings will shift—and fans should expect fireworks.