SMMA 39 - Dragon Fire PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Quinton Jackson (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Earnie Shavers (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). We have two fighters making their debuts here, so let's see who comes out of this one with their first professional victory.

Jackson
vs
Shavers

185 cm
18
220 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

184 cm
25
220 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

Decent wrestler
Brawler
Good chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent boxer
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the light heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Quinton Jackson!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Earnie Shavers!
The judges for this bout are Yasuomi Hirokawa, Shigeki Fujiwara and Taro Takaoka.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Shavers scores with a nice one two combo and darts back out of range to avoid anything coming in the opposite direction.
Shavers misses with a jab, cross combination.
Shavers avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Shavers is looking to clinch but Jackson is avoiding it.
Shavers ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Jackson moves away.
Shavers is looking to clinch.
Shavers throws a right and a left that Jackson avoids nicely.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Jackson.
No joy there for Shavers, who threw a few shots but didn't land.

Jackson closes the distance and gets a double leg, slamming Shavers to the mat! Shavers manages to get full guard.

Shavers has his foot on Jackson's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Jackson works his way back into a safe position though.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Jackson trying to pass the guard. He's being very persistent here but Shavers manages to land a sweep and now he's on top!
Jackson is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Shavers trying to control but Jackson is working from the bottom.
Jackson trying to control the position.
Jackson wants to control but instead he gets his guard passed and Shavers is now in half guard.

Shavers is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Jackson pushes Shavers off looking to stand but Shavers dives back in and keeps control.
Jackson controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Shavers wants to get back to his feet.
Shavers tries to pass to full mount but Jackson defends it.
Jackson is trying to control but can't.
Shavers is taking a breather. Jackson says something to him but it's hard to make out. Perhaps he's telling him to get on with it and actually do something.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Jackson shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Shavers pinned against the cage. Shavers gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Shavers scores with a shot to the body.
Jackson is breathing heavily.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Shavers lands with a good body shot.
Shavers paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Shavers comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Shavers misses with a double jab.
Shavers works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Shavers scores with a nice strike.
Shavers looks to land a combination. Jackson sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Shavers fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Jackson doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Jackson gets caught by a brutal right hook which buckles his knees! Jackson tries to backpedal with his spaghettilegs but Shavers is headhunting and goes for the kill. A jab and a right hook connect and Jackson buckles badly as his eyes roll back. The referee steps in and saves Jackson!! Jackson is complaining but he was clearly out on his feet. Shavers throws his mouthpiece into the crowd. Mmmm spit-tastic.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:49 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Earnie Shavers!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
55%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Vincent LaCroix (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jojo Mfaki (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). This should be a great matchup!

LaCroix
vs
Mfaki

175 cm
21
140 lbs
4 - 6 - 0

170 cm
19
155 lbs
3 - 4 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Basic striking
Granite chin

Decent wrestler
Brawler
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 4 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Vincent LaCroix!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Jojo Mfaki!
The judges for this bout are Yasuomi Hirokawa, Yukihiro Shimada and Yukihiro Yamamoto.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
LaCroix shoots for a double leg takedown but Mfaki sprawls well. He's pushed LaCroix's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.

Mfaki shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
Mfaki missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Mfaki has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.

Mfaki is trying for a kimura here. LaCroix looks like he's in a lot of pain... and he's tapping out! Mfaki wins by kimura!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:34 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Jojo Mfaki!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
44%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Czarek Marnota (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Aaa Bbb (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Marnota comes to the cage accompanied by Zawsze Jak Król. Aaa Bbb will no doubt be looking to use his reach advantage to good effect.

Marnota
vs
Bbb

200 cm
19
300 lbs
5 - 1 - 0

225 cm
25
300 lbs
3 - 3 - 0

BJJ Brown Belt
Brawler
Good chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Counter striker
Solid chin

Syndicate Drugs

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the super heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Czarek Marnota!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Aaa Bbb!
The judges for this bout are Kenichi Hosakawa, Yuuki Gou and Yasuomi Hirokawa.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Marnota shoots in for a takedown but Bbb shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.

Bbb looking to score a takedown here. Marnota is defending well but Bbb drives through and ends up in Marnota's guard.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.

Bbb drops back looking for a leg! Marnota is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Marnota manages to kick Bbb off! Bbb jumps back into Marnota's guard.

Marnota has managed to work for a loose triangle. I think Bbb should be able to defend this one pretty easily though. Oh, Marnota has tightened it up now! Bbb should have reacted faster there - he's in big trouble and yes, he's tapped out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:25 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Czarek Marnota!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
49%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Akira Konda (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Haile Gebreselassie (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Buckle up people - heeeeeeeeeere we go!

Konda
vs
Gebreselassie

188 cm
20
200 lbs
4 - 0 - 0

170 cm
25
198 lbs
3 - 0 - 0

Abu Dhabi Champ
Brawler
Cardio machine

BJJ Purple Belt
Counter striker
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 4 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Akira Konda!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Haile Gebreselassie!
The judges for this bout are Taro Takaoka, Sosuke Kotani and Ren Mimura.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Konda gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Gebreselassie counters with a big head kick but Konda shrugs it off.
Konda gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Gebreselassie counters with a slapping leg kick.
Konda doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with a thumping low kick.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Akira Konda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Good leg kick by Gebreselassie there. It's the ones that make that thud noise that hurt and that was an almighty thud.
Konda shoots and misses
and Gebreselassie finishes the little exchange by landing a big kick to the body.
Gebreselassie throws a nice head kick!
Konda shoots and misses
and Gebreselassie counters with a body kick that brings a smile to the face of both fighters.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Gebreselassie lands with a thumping leg kick.
Konda tries for a takedown but Gebreselassie circles away easily
and Gebreselassie counters with an outside leg kick.
A slapping leg kick lands for Gebreselassie.
Gebreselassie misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Konda fails with the takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with a nice body kick.
Gebreselassie fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Konda.

Konda gets a double leg takedown into Gebreselassie's guard.

Gebreselassie looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Konda preventing the sweep.
Gebreselassie trying to keep a closed guard but Konda is proving a slippery customer.
Gebreselassie keeping full guard, as Konda tries to pass.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Konda controlling from the top position.
Gebreselassie keeping moving, preventing Konda from controlling successfully.
Kondais looking to pass into half guard but Gebreselassie pushes him away with his feet and jumps on top - now Gebreselassie is in guard.
Gebreselassie tries to free his leg and advance position but Konda is retaining full guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

The ref stands the fighters back up because Akira Konda just wasn't active enough.
Konda fails with the takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with a leg kick that reverborates around the arena.
Konda misses with a takedown attempt
and Gebreselassie counters with a good low kick that Konda was not able to check.
That kick from Gebreselassie tenderised Konda's leg. Konda is trying to keep his angry face on.
Konda has his takedown stuffed
and Gebreselassie counters with a nice low kick that buckles Konda's knee momentarily.
Konda with a lazy takedown attempt
and Gebreselassie counters with a nice leg kick.
Konda is breathing heavily.
Konda misses with a takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with a good low kick that Konda was not able to check.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gebreselassie throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Konda gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Gebreselassie counters with a body kick.
Konda gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Gebreselassie counters with a nice body kick.

Konda scores with a takedown into Gebreselassie's guard.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Gebreselassie looking for a guillotine here but Konda defends easily.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Konda trying to control the position from guard on top but Gebreselassie is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Haile Gebreselassie will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.

Konda misses with a takedown attempt
and Gebreselassie counters with a low kick, right behind Konda 's knee.
Konda with a poor takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with a low kick, right behind Konda 's knee.
Konda with a poor takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with a kick to the head that grazes his opponent. Konda is lucky that one didn't land flush.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Akira Konda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Nice body kick there by Gebreselassie.
Konda on the wrong end of a nice low kick. He's acting like it's no big deal but he doesn't want to take many more of those.
Gebreselassie scoring well with a low kick there.
Konda doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Gebreselassie makes the exchange count by landing a cracking kick to the body. Konda really felt that one!
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
A head kick misses from Gebreselassie.
Konda misses with a takedown
and Gebreselassie makes the exchange count by landing a cracking kick to the body. Konda really felt that one!

That's one minute gone in the round.
Konda has his takedown stuffed
and Gebreselassie counters with a slapping leg kick.
Konda tries for a takedown but Gebreselassie circles away easily
and Gebreselassie counters with an inside leg kick.
Gebreselassie thumps Konda with a low kick.
Gebreselassie throws a quick inside leg kick.
Gebreselassie lands a nice looking kick to the body. Konda takes a step back to recover.
Konda with a poor takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with an inside leg kick.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Konda has his takedown stuffed
and Gebreselassie counters with a nice leg kick.
Gebreselassie fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Konda has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Konda fails with the takedown

and Gebreselassie counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Gebreselassie is trying to control the action in half guard but Konda is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Gebreselassie wants to pass to mount but Konda is defending the position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Konda blocking the ground and pound attempt from Gebreselassie.

OK we're going to have a standup here. Haile Gebreselassie hasn't been effective enough on the ground and the referee wants a restart.
Gebreselassie lands a nice looking body kick.
Konda doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with a low kick, right behind Konda 's knee.
Konda doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with an outside leg kick.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gebreselassie lands with a thumping leg kick.
Gebreselassie lands a nice looking body kick.
Gebreselassie cracks the inside of Konda's front leg.
Konda gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Gebreselassie counters with a good low kick that Konda was not able to check.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Gebreselassie lands a leg kick that knocks Konda off balance momentarily.
Konda with a lazy takedown attempt
and Gebreselassie counters with a nice low kick that buckles Konda's knee momentarily.
Gebreselassie throws a nice outside leg kick.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Haile Gebreselassie showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!

Gebreselassie moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Gebreselassie lands a kick to the ribs of his opponent. Nice work there - in and out in a flash.
Konda shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with a slapping leg kick.
Gebreselassie throws a head kick that half lands.
Konda misses with a takedown attempt
and Gebreselassie makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Konda has his takedown stuffed
and Gebreselassie counters with a nice low kick that buckles Konda's knee momentarily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Akira Konda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Gebreselassie thows a body kick. Konda tries to catch it but that hurt him.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nice body kick there by Gebreselassie.
That kick from Gebreselassie tenderised Konda's leg. Konda is trying to keep his angry face on.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Konda stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Gebreselassie.
Gebreselassie throws a leg kick which misses Konda's front leg but catches the back leg as Konda tries to avoid it.
Gebreselassie fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Konda.
Gebreselassie thumps Konda with a low kick.
A decent looking body kick lands there for Gebreselassie.
Konda is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Konda has his takedown stuffed
and Gebreselassie counters with a flying knee. Nice.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Gebreselassie throws a quick head kick that skims the top of Konda's head.
A chopping leg kick lands by Gebreselassie.
Konda with a lazy takedown attempt
and Gebreselassie counters with a nice kick to the body.
Gebreselassie has a takedown stuffed.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Konda fails with the takedown
and Gebreselassie makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.

Gebreselassie closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Konda's guard.
Gebreselassie trying to control but Konda is working from the bottom.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Konda keeping full guard, as Gebreselassie tries to pass.

Haile Gebreselassie has forced the referee to step in and restart the fight on the feet.
Konda misses with a takedown
and Gebreselassie counters with a body kick that brings a smile to the face of both fighters.
Konda misses with a takedown attempt
and Gebreselassie counters with an inside leg kick.
Konda has his takedown stuffed
and Gebreselassie counters with a leg kick.
Gebreselassie thuds a mid kick into his opponent's body. That will wear on Konda if he has to take too many more of those.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
A nice leg kick lands there from Gebreselassie.
Konda with a poor takedown
and Gebreselassie makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
An inside leg kick lands from Gebreselassie.
Konda has his takedown stuffed
and Gebreselassie counters with a body kick that stops Konda in his tracks momentarily.
Akira Konda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Gebreselassie lets loose with a powerful body kick. Konda will feel that in the morning.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Gebreselassie scores with a head kick. Konda tried to block it but didn't get his arm up in time.
Konda gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and he gets countered with a snapping leg kick.

And that's the end of the fight!
Haile Gebreselassie comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Gebreselassie has outworked and out performed his opponent in all aspects of the game today. He was simply too good and the decision should be no more than a formality. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Taro Takaoka scores the fight 27:30
Judge Sosuke Kotani scores the fight 27:30
Judge Ren Mimura scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Haile Gebreselassie!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
45%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Frank Dux (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Richard Tavarius (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The crowd seem to be enjoying Tavarius's choice of entrance music: Eminem Ft. Royce Da 5'9 - Living Proof. Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Dux
vs
Tavarius

195 cm
20
206 lbs
5 - 3 - 0

185 cm
20
220 lbs
4 - 1 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Solid boxing
Experienced

Good wrestler
Decent boxing
Powerful

Vandal Fight Boutique (prices $8 - $30)

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the light heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Frank Dux!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Richard Tavarius!
The judges for this bout are Shigeki Sano, Shigeki Fujiwara and Taro Takaoka.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
A looping hook to the body misses from Tavarius. Dux does a little dance to reset his feet.
Tavarius throws a right and a left that both miss.
Tavarius throws an overhand right that lands on Dux's shoulder, as Dux tries to avoid the shot.

Tavarius takes the fight into the clinch.
Tavarius avoiding damage.
Nice body punch from Tavarius.
Tavarius lands a nice uppercut.
A short body shot lands from Tavarius as the two fighters clinch.
Tavarius holding his opponent close, against the cage.
Tavarius scores with a shoulder strike.
Dux tries to break free but Tavarius pushes him back against the cage.
Dux trying to control the position but instead, Tavarius has worked for underhooks and has pushed Dux into the cage.
Tavarius works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Dux is breathing heavily.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Tavarius as Dux tries to tie him up.
The pace slowing considerably in the clinch, as Tavarius takes a break from that fighting nonsense to think about the finer things in life.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Tavarius lands a hook that snaps the head of Dux backwards.
Tavarius blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Tavarius is working Dux over against the cage.
Come on Tavarius - let's have some action - none of this stalling nonsense.
Dux struggles to land a body shot inside as Tavarius controls his hands.
Tavarius pressing his opponent against the cage.
Tavarius lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Tavarius lands a body punch in the clinch.
Tavarius content to slow the pace in the clinch.
Tavarius throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Duxs head.
Tavarius lands a body punch in the clinch.
Tavarius scores with a shot to the side of Dux's head.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Tavarius lands with a left to the head.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Tavarius lands with a left to the head.
Tavarius lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Dux or not.
Tavarius lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Tavarius lands with a right to the head.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Tavarius.
Tavarius lands a hook that snaps the head of Dux backwards.
Tavarius pushes Dux back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
A short left from Tavarius.
Tavarius digs a right hand into Dux's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Dux's gas tank.
Tavarius displaying some good clinch control by pressing Dux up against the cage.
Tavarius gets through Dux's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Tavarius creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.

Dux is rocked!
Tavarius lands a right hand that snaps the head of Dux backwards.
Oh Dux is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Tavarius working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Tavarius lands a body shot in the clinch.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Tavarius creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Tavarius works on Dux's body with a couple of short punches.
Tavarius lands a body shot in the clinch.

Tavarius drops Dux onto one knee with a big uppercut from the clinch! Dux is propped up by the cage and works his way back to his feet!
A short right hand to the side of the head by Tavarius.
Tavarius slows down the pace here.
Tavarius continues to stall. The referee tells him to work or he's going to break them up.
Tavarius working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Good body shot from Tavarius.
Tavarius makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Tavarius has Dux pushed against the cage.
Dux seems to have got his legs back now.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
A short right from Tavarius on the inside.
Tavarius leaning his opponent against the cage.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Dux goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Tavarius avoids the elbow strike from Dux, against the cage.
Tavarius lands a body shot.
Tavarius just leaning against Dux, taking a breather.
Tavarius lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Dux backwards.
Tavarius scores with a hook to the body.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Tavarius.
Tavarius stalling in the clinch.
The ref breaks the fighters up, due to lack of action by Richard Tavarius.

Tavarius clinches with his opponent.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Tavarius lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Tavarius stalls.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Richard Tavarius dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!

Tavarius's jab looks to have found its range, popping Dux under the eye.
Tavarius misses with an uppercut
The fighters are starting to get sweaty, which will make takedowns a bit more tricky.
and Dux counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Tavarius lands the left hand.
Tavarius misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Dux.

Tavarius pushes Dux up against the cage in a clinch.
Tavarius makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Tavarius slowing the pace effectively.
Dux swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Tavarius lands a left hand that snaps the head of Dux backwards.
Dux misses with an elbow strike.
Richard Tavarius seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
A right hand to the body from Tavarius.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Tavarius makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
A nice left hand lands by Tavarius.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.

That's one minute gone in the round.
A right handed body shot lands from Tavarius.
Tavarius lands a shot to the body.
Tavarius makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Tavarius lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Dux.
The referee is keeping an eye on Tavarius - much more stalling and he will separate the fighters.
Tavarius has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Tavarius lands a shoulder strike.
Good body shot from Tavarius.
Tavarius lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Dux.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
The pace really dropping off here, momentarily.
Dux takes a shot to the head.
Tavarius lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Tavarius is clearly stalling here... Pick up the pace son.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Tavarius.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A right hand to the body from Tavarius.
Tavarius lands with a right to the head.
A nice left hand lands by Tavarius.
Tavarius lands an uppercut.
Nice body punch from Tavarius - that landed with a thud.
Tavarius throws a big uppercut that drops Dux! More strikes from Tavarius and the referee jumps in to stop the fight! Dux lies dazed against the cage as Tavarius celebrates with his cornermen!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:27 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Richard Tavarius!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
100%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Amos Black (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Recoome Likum (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Black
vs
Likum

193 cm
20
290 lbs
2 - 2 - 0

199 cm
21
255 lbs
4 - 4 - 0

Great wrestler
Basic striking
Cardio machine

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent MT
Knockout power

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Amos Black!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Recoome Likum!
The judges for this bout are Tatsuya Matsuyama, Hirohito Nitta and Sosuke Kotani.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

The fight moves into the clinch position.
Likum tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Black smiles and moves away.
Likum tries to clinch up but Black circles away and keeps his distance.
Black avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Likum fails in his attempt to clinch.
Black takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Likum shoots in for a takedown but Black shows good takedown defense.
Likum throws a right and a left that both miss.
Likum keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Black stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Black wants it to stay on the feet.
Amos Black has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Recoome Likum.

Black closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Black lands in his opponent's guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
Likum is trying to keep Black in close.

Black avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Black trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Likum wants to get back to his feet but Black is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Likum preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Black tries to free his leg and advance position but Likum is retaining full guard.

Likum is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Black lands a couple of elbows.

It looks like Recoome Likum has been cut.
Likum has momentary wrist control but Black slips an elbow through the middle.

That has opened up Recoome Likum's cut even more.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Black stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Likum swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Likum looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Black throwing strikes but missing.
Black with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.

The cut above Recoome Likum's eye is starting to cause him problems now.

The referee calls the doctor in to look at Recoome Likum's cut. Oh no, the doctor has called an end to the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:46 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Amos Black!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
45%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Mike Hawk (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Roger Huerte (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Huerte has chosen Master of Puppets as his entrance music, which hasn't gone down very well with the crowd. Roger Huerte is the more experienced fighter, so let's see if that makes a difference tonight.

Hawk
vs
Huerte

200 cm
18
265 lbs
3 - 1 - 0

200 cm
27
281 lbs
3 - 6 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Good chin

BJJ White Belt
Good kicks
Powerful

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 3 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Mike Hawk!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Roger Huerte!
The judges for this bout are Ren Mimura, Tatsuya Matsuyama and Shirou Masuda.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Hawk fails with a takedown attempt.
Huerte connects with a high kick.

It looks like Mike Hawk has been cut.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Hawk misses with a takedown attempt - Huerte sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Huerte slaps away a takedown attempt from Hawk, before circling back to the center of the mat.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Mike Hawk. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Huerte tries to clinch but Hawk is having none of it.

Huerte sets himself and throws a head kick that knocks Hawk to the ground! Huerte dives into full mount looking to finish!

Hawk is rocked!
Huerte loads up with a big shot that hurts Hawk! He's pulled Huerte in close but Huerte has postured up and lands more strikes. Can Hawk survive? More strikes from Huerte and Hawk is out! The ref jumps in to save him! Brutal ground and pound!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:46 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Roger Huerte!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
100%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Brusso Do (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and James Steptoe (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Well, the cameraman is lingering on a pretty young lady for a bit too long there. Keep your eyes on the fighters buddy or you'll miss the fighter intros!

Do
vs
Steptoe

190 cm
22
285 lbs
5 - 1 - 0

225 cm
26
287 lbs
7 - 2 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent boxer
Very strong

Good takedowns
Brawler
Knockout power

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Brusso Do!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 7 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, James Steptoe!
The judges for this bout are Taro Takaoka, Sosuke Kotani and Shigeki Sano.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Do ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Do uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Steptoe has time to react.

Do has taken the fight to the clinch.
A nice glancing elbow lands by Do.

It looks like James Steptoe has been cut.
Do lands a body punch in the clinch.
Do lands a nice uppercut.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Do digs a right hand underneath Steptoe's ribcage. Steptoe let out a lung full of air as it connected.
Steptoe looks gassed!
Steptoe takes an elbow to the forehead.
Do throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
A short left from Do.

Steptoe is rocked!
Do taking a breather.
Steptoe is still on wobbly legs! Can Do finish him?
Do lands an elbow inside.
Do lands an uppercut in the clinch that drops Steptoe to his knees! Do keeps firing more shots against his stricken opponent and the referee jumps in to save him!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:50 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Brusso Do!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
100%

Main event

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Kazushi Sakuraba (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Hyashi Yedo (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The key to victory for Kazushi Sakuraba has got to be keeping the fight on the feet.

Sakuraba
vs
Yedo

183 cm
21
190 lbs
6 - 1 - 0

186 cm
28
192 lbs
8 - 2 - 0

Powerful takedowns
Counter striker
Very strong

Good takedowns
Counter striker
Knockout power

L.A. Elite Clothing Co ($8.50 shorts and shirt)
PEGASUS FIGHT WEAR $6 and Laundering 90%

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 6 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Kazushi Sakuraba!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 8 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Hyashi Yedo!
The judges for this bout are Yuuki Gou, Shigeki Fujiwara and Yasuomi Hirokawa.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Sakuraba throws a right and a left that Yedo avoids nicely.

Sakuraba shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Yedo's guard.
Yedo trying to keep a closed guard but Sakuraba is proving a slippery customer.
Yedo might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Sakuraba kaven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.

Sakuraba drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Sakuraba jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Yedo is trying to control the position but Sakuraba postures up.
Sakuraba won't allow Yedo to sweep him here.
Yedo keeping full guard, as Sakuraba tries to pass.

Yedo throws his legs up looking for a submission but Sakuraba uses it to pass to side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Yedo tries to improve position but can't.
Yedo is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Sakuraba works a knee to the body and follows up with a nice elbow to the head.
Sakuraba tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
Yedo wants to control but Sakuraba postures up.
Yedo gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Yedo is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Sakuraba trying to control from Yedo's half guard. Yedo has other ideas though and has regained full guard.
Sakuraba scoring with some ground and pound.

Yedo had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Sakuraba defends it easily.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Sakuraba is pushing down on Yedo's leg trying to pass to half guard. Yedo is fighting to maintain full guard but Sakuraba has managed to sneak the leg through.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Yedo wants to improve his position but Sakuraba is controlling well.
Sakuraba working the head and body with strikes.
Sakuraba scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Yedo keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.

Sakuraba is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Sakuraba drops an elbow to the side of Yedo's head.

Yedo looking for submissions off his back.
Yedo tries to get to full guard but Sakuraba has control of the leg.

Yedo actively working from the bottom here.
Yedo looks gassed!
Sakuraba trying to control the action but Yedo is working from the bottom.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Yedo is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Sakuraba scores with a couple of nice shots.

Sakuraba looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique.
Yedo keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Yedo wants to get back to full guard.

Yedo looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Sakuraba is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.

Sakuraba is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Yedo is just riding it out for now. Sakuraba eventually gives up the hold.
Yedo moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Yedo working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Sakuraba doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Sakuraba manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Sakuraba wants to control from the top but Yedo keeps moving.
Sakuraba advances to half guard.
Sakuraba has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Yedo is desperately trying to improve his position but Sakuraba has a good base and remains in mount.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Yedo is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Sakuraba lands a big elbow.
Sakuraba avoids the attempt from Yedo to control.
Sakuraba looking to control but Yedo is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kazushi Sakuraba dominated that round.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.

Sakuraba tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.

Yedo shoots in and gets a takedown into Sakuraba's guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Sakuraba is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Yedo is aware though and is defending well.
Yedo sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Sakuraba's guard.
Sakuraba wants to improve his position but Yedo is controlling well.

Sakuraba is defending against the submission attempts here by Yedo.
Sakuraba gets full guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Sakuraba had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Yedo defends it easily.
Sakuraba is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Yedo pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Sakuraba is keeping the position for now.
Yedo trying to control but Sakuraba is working from the bottom.
Yedo stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Sakuraba swivels though and keeps the full guard.

Sakuraba has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Yedo can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Yedo pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Sakuraba is keeping the position for now.

Sakuraba is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Yedo is aware though and is defending well.
Sakuraba wants to sweep here but Yedo controlling him for the moment.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Sakuraba looking for a guillotine here but Yedo defends easily.
Yedo looking to pass the guard.

Sakuraba working for a triangle but Yedo defends it easily.

Yedo thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!

Sakuraba is looking for a triangle but Yedo pushes his legs off easily.
Sakuraba keeping moving, preventing Yedo from controlling successfully.
Yedo makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Yedo accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Sakuraba keeping moving, preventing Yedo from controlling successfully.

Sakuraba looking for a guillotine here but Yedo defends easily.
Yedo pushing down on Sakuraba's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Yedo tries to pass the half guard into mount. Sakuraba knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.

Yedo wants to work for an arm triangle but Sakuraba is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.

Sakuraba looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Yedo thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Sakuraba manages to get to full guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Yedo stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Sakuraba swivels though and keeps the full guard.

Yedo got a little sloppy there for a moment and Sakuraba has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Yedo has managed to get both his arms back between Sakuraba's legs - danger averted.
Yedo trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Sakuraba manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Yedo manages to get himself to full guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!

Yedo has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Sakuraba can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Yedo is breathing heavily.

Sakuraba shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Yedo but Yedo pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Yedo pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Sakuraba fails to land with a series of punches.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Sakuraba drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.

Sakuraba avoids a guillotine attempt easily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Sakuraba trying to control but Yedo is working from the bottom.

Sakuraba got a little sloppy there for a moment and Yedo has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Sakuraba has managed to get both his arms back between Yedo's legs - danger averted.
Sakuraba lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Sakuraba loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Yedo keeping moving, preventing Sakuraba from controlling successfully.
Sakuraba with a nice head shot there.
Kazushi Sakuraba overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Sakuraba trying to control but Yedo is working from the bottom.
Sakuraba tries to free his leg and advance position but Yedo is retaining full guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Yedo keeping moving, preventing Sakuraba from controlling successfully.

Yedo looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Sakuraba trying to control but Yedo is working from the bottom.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Sakuraba lands a couple of decent looking shots.

Yedo is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Sakuraba trying to control but Yedo is working from the bottom.

Yedo working for submissions but it's allowed Sakuraba to get to half guard.
Yedo avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Sakuraba.
Yedo trying to control here.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Sakuraba seems to be working for a kimura but Yedo defends the submission attempt.
Sakuraba is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Sakuraba is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for Yedo!
Yedo working to try and regain half guard.
Sakuraba breaks from Yedo's wrist control and lands an elbow.

Sakuraba looking for an armbar but decides to keep the dominant position instead.
Sakuraba working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Yedo wants to control but Sakuraba is having none of it.
Sakuraba scores with a couple of good head shots there.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Sakuraba with shots to the head and body - Yedo looks very uncomfortable down there.
Yedo is trying to escape the mount.

Sakuraba looking for a guillotine from mount but Yedo is having none of it.
Yedo regains half guard.
Yedo is looking to control Sakuraba's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Yedo avoid being mounted?
Sakuraba thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Yedo's head.
Kazushi Sakuraba is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Sakuraba throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Yedo is refusing to be controlled, as Sakuraba sits in half guard.
Sakuraba tries to pass the half guard into mount. Yedo knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Hyashi Yedo has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Yedo tries to strike from the bottom but it doesn't land.

And that's the end of the fight!
Kazushi Sakuraba showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Sakuraba has outscored his opponent in every aspect of the fight today. Only a scarily incompetent judge or two will keep him from a well deserved win... Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Yuuki Gou scores the fight 30:27
Judge Shigeki Fujiwara scores the fight 30:27
Judge Yasuomi Hirokawa scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Kazushi Sakuraba!