The criminal trial shifted to closing arguments with Christopher Darden delivering an emotional prosecution case portraying Simpson as a rage killer driven by jealousy and obsession, using the 911 tape and a 'burning fuse' metaphor to argue escalating violence. Johnnie Cochran countered with a methodical defense closing attacking the LAPD investigation, dismantling the glove evidence and introducing the iconic phrase 'if it doesn't fit, you must acquit.' Both sides made their final appeals as the jury prepared for imminent deliberations, potentially beginning Monday.

• Darden delivers prosecution closing with 911 tape and 'burning fuse' metaphor about Simpson's escalating rage over Nicole
• Darden catalogs defense's unfulfilled promises (Rosa Lopez, Mary Anne Gerchas, Paula Barbieri never called) and dismisses case as 'smoke and mirrors'
• Cochran introduces 'if it doesn't fit, you must acquit' and frames case as 'journey toward justice' against corrupt LAPD
• Cochran systematically dismantles glove evidence and exposes expert Richard Rubin's letter seeking invitation to prosecution victory party
• Cochran argues socks evidence proves planting using video timeline showing no socks at 4:13 PM before collection at 4:35 PM
• Court denies preemptive sanctions against defense but allows burden-of-proof chart and sustains objection to glove stills
• Jury given questionnaire on deliberation preferences with deliberations potentially starting Monday