The Matchup
Austin “Turf Daddy Slim” Turpin walked away with another win at Power Slap 15, defeating Stevie Ellis in the co-main event. The week leading up to the match was filled with chaos, and Turpin didn’t hold back in his post-fight comments.
“He had so much energy up there, he couldn’t sit still,” Turpin said. “He looked like a baby in timeout. He just kept moving, wasn’t giving me an actual shot — and that’s what Power Slap’s about. It’s taking a strike and delivering a strike. He just wasn’t game for taking one today.”
On Stevie’s Flinching and the Bright Lights
Ellis, making his first live-event appearance after competing on Power Slap: Road to the Title, struggled under the pressure according to Turpin.
“I think maybe he was just too nervous out there,” he said. “It’s a big deal when you go out in front of those cameras, with the lights and the people yelling. Maybe it got to him. But either way, I wish he would’ve taken a strike like a man so we could’ve had a better bout.”
Movement Issues and Technique
Turpin admitted he had to hold back offensively due to Ellis’s constant movement and fear of committing a foul.
“I’ve had several clubs before — mistakes as a striker — and that sucks,” he said. “So I was thinking about it. But he had such a narrow chin and a little Gerber baby face that if I went any further back, I would’ve clubbed him.”
Despite the awkward matchup, Turpin kept things clean and composed. “I’ve been working with Ryan, tightening up my technique, making sure I strike properly. But against someone like him, it’s hard not to overthink it.”
Evaluating Stevie Ellis
When asked about Ellis’s power, Turpin didn’t mince words.
“Not in this division. Maybe not even the one below,” he said. “There’s probably 185ers that would clean him if he didn’t move. He needs to hit the weight room, take a year off, maybe find a Cuban doctor to get big,” he joked. “I don’t know if this is for him — maybe he’s better off as a fan.”
What’s Next for Turf Daddy Slim?
Power Slap President Frank Lamicella hinted that heavyweight might be next for Turpin, and Austin seemed ready for the move.
“It’s whatever Frank says, man,” Turpin said. “He’s the boss. He says jump, I say how high — and who do you want me to hit?”
And as for potential opponents? Turpin’s list was clear:
“I got D-Bell at the top. One of the softest, weakest dudes in the heavyweight division — an absolute punk. And the Crazy Hawaiian was out there in the crowd acting like a buffoon. He don’t want none, and they’re not gonna let him bring that cane on stage. So, keep your mouth shut.”
Austin “Turf Daddy Slim” Turpin remains one of Power Slap’s most colorful and dangerous competitors — and with his eyes set on heavyweight, things are about to get even louder.