Ricky Proehl, a former 17‑season NFL wide receiver, took the helm of the St. Louis Battlehawks and celebrated his first win as head coach with a 36‑17 triumph over the defending champion DC Defenders. At 58, Proehl reflected on the emotional significance of coaching in the city where he once played, saying the victory was “right up there” with his most memorable moments as a player.
The win propelled the Battlehawks to the top spot in the UFL’s inaugural power rankings, alongside the Renegades who also lead the standings after Week 1. The rankings set the stage for a nine‑week season that will culminate in a spring championship.