CCF Midweek Mayhem 18 PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Astrud Rivera (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Asiong Salonga (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Rumors backstage are that the fighters have been paid to keep it standing but we know that would never happen in MMA!

Rivera
vs
Salonga

178 cm
23
145 lbs
3 - 9 - 0

170 cm
26
155 lbs
2 - 4 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Cardio machine

Decent wrestler
Decent boxing
Determined

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 3 - 9 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Astrud Rivera!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Asiong Salonga!
The judges for this bout are Jack Bonds, Timothy Bukovac and Frank Antenori.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Salonga shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in full mount! That's better than Salonga was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.
Rivera throwing punches from his back but nothing is landing.
Rivera is in all sorts of trouble here.
Salonga controlling the pace for now.
Salonga lands a nice shot to the head.
Salonga really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Rivera. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Salonga trying to control but Rivera is having none of it.
Rivera in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Rivera is looking to improve his position but Salonga isn't that keen on the idea.
Rivera bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
Salonga trying to control the position here.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Rivera trying to control the position from guard on top but Salonga is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Rivera is really struggling to control Salonga but he's trying to hold on to the position.
Salonga looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

We're going to have a standup here because Astrud Rivera wasn't active enough for the referee's liking.
Salonga throws a nice looking combination but Rivera bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.

Salonga takes the fight into the clinch.
Salonga tries to break free but Rivera pushes him back against the cage.

Salonga has picked Rivera up - he's going for a ride! Salonga dumps his opponent to the mat with a thud and settles into half guard.
It looks like Salonga is going to stand back up.
Rivera wants to control but Salonga is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Rivera is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Salonga's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Salonga's back!
Salonga prevents Rivera from getting a body triangle.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
You can see the frustration on Salonga's face… He knows he is in trouble unless he improves his position sooner rather than later.

Rivera is looking for the choke from the back position but Salonga is controlling his hands well.

Rivera is working really hard to secure the rear naked choke. Salonga defends successfully for a significant amount of time. Both fighters are looking very determined.

Rivera working for a choke but Salonga reverses nicely into Rivera 's guard.
Salonga is working Rivera over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Rivera is working an open guard here, looking to improve his position. No doubt that will leave him open to counters but at least he's being more offensive.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Salonga scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Rivera looking for a sweep. Not yet Rivera, not yet.
Rivera controls Salonga momentarily but Salonga frees himself.
Rivera is looking to stand up but Salonga isn't so interested in that idea.
Salonga works over Rivera with some ground and pound from guard.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Rivera is on top in guard.
Rivera trying to control the position from guard on top but Salonga is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Rivera advances position into side control!
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Asiong Salonga will probably get the nod.
That's time! Back to the action!

Salonga shoots in and bounces Rivera off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
Rivera pulls Salonga in close to his closed guard and prevents Salonga from doing any damage or advancing position.

Rivera is looking for a triangle here but Salonga uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Salonga is looking to take a break and control but Rivera is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Salonga tries to move into full mount but can't pass Rivera's legs.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Rivera tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Salonga wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Rivera regains half guard.
Rivera is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Salonga's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Salonga's back!
Salonga trying to control the hands but Rivera breaks the grip.
Salonga tries to escape the position - he's now mounted. Is that better or worse? Hard to tell!
Salonga sneaks a leg back under and regains half guard and is working straight away to try and get back to guard. He hasn't managed just yet though.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Rivera keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.

Rivera decides to stand and escape the position.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Salonga clinches up against the cage.

Salonga jumps into guard, dragging Rivera to the mat.
Rivera stopping the sweep attempt from Salonga.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Rivera postures up.
Salonga keeping moving, preventing Rivera from controlling successfully.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
Salonga looking for a sweep. Not yet Salonga, not yet.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

The ref stands the fighters back up. Astrud Rivera wasn't doing enough on the ground.
Salonga keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Rivera tries to clinch up but Salonga circles away and keeps his distance.

Salonga has closed the distance and engaged Rivera in a clinch.

Salonga wants the takedown. Rivera is fighting it off but Salonga persists and manages to bring the fight to the ground, ending up in Rivera's guard against the cage.
Salonga missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Asiong Salonga has got the better of the ground game so far.
Salonga wants to control from the top but Rivera keeps moving.
Salonga must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Rivera is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.
Rivera trying to keep a closed guard but Salonga is proving a slippery customer.
Rivera is pulling down on Salonga's head to control his posture.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Astrud Rivera has forced the referee to step in and bring the fight back to the feet.
Rivera looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Rivera shoots in for a takedown but Salonga shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Astrud Rivera. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Rivera will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
No luck for Salonga with that takedown attempt.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Rivera throws a nice outside leg kick.

Salonga scores with a takedown into Rivera's guard.
Rivera looking to control.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Salonga trying to control but Rivera is working from the bottom.
Salonga wants to pass the guard but Rivera is keeping the position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Asiong Salonga showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.

Rivera tries to clinch up.
Rivera throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Rivera defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Salonga.
Rivera stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Rivera wants it to stay on the feet.
Salonga doesn't manage to clinch there - Rivera circles away.
Salonga misses with a takedown attempt - Rivera sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Astrud Rivera has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Asiong Salonga.
Nice body kick from Rivera.
Rivera lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Salonga circles away quickly and effectively.
Rivera fails in his attempt to clinch.
Salonga closes the distance and clinches up with Rivera, looking for a takedown. Salonga pushes Rivera against the cage but Rivera circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Salonga fails with a takedown attempt.

Salonga rushes Rivera and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Rivera wants a takedown but no success here.
Salonga takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Rivera is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Rivera tries for a takedown. No joy.
Rivera is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Rivera tries to stall but Salonga uses the opportunity to gain a better position.
Salonga is struggling to control the position.
Salonga has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Rivera avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Rivera working hard to break the clinch.
Rivera tries to score a body lock takedown but Salonga shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Rivera stops a takedown attempt from Salonga.
A nice left hand lands by Salonga.

Salonga has dropped down and is working for a takedown. Rivera is trying to keep an underhook but Salonga manages to get the takedown into half guard.
Rivera manages to get to full guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Rivera has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Salonga trying to control the position from guard on top but Rivera is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Rivera manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Salonga manages to get himself to full guard.
Rivera landing some decent shots from guard.
Rivera wants to control from the top but Salonga keeps moving.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Rivera stands up from Salonga's guard - Rivera perhaps looking for a knockout.

Salonga closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Rivera did well to prevent Salonga getting side control.
Rivera is refusing to be controlled, as Salonga sits in half guard.
Rivera is looking to control Salonga's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Rivera avoid being mounted?
The fighters are battling for position here. Rivera manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Rivera is trying to control the position from the bottom.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Rivera wants to stand and escape but Salonga is having none of it.
Rivera is trying to keep Salonga in close.
Salonga trying to control but Rivera is working from the bottom.
Rivera is trying to control the position from the bottom.

Well, the referee has seen enough. Neither fighter is active enough on the ground so he's stood them back up.
Salonga throws a head kick that misses.
Nice sprawl there from Rivera as Salonga shoots in.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Rivera fails to land the takedown.

Rivera clinches with his opponent.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but Astrud Rivera did the better work so I'd imagine he'll take it.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!

Salonga shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Salonga showed some decent athleticism there.
Rivera keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Salonga prevents Rivera from standing back up.
Salonga working Rivera over with strikes.
Rivera regains full guard. Nicely done.
Salonga seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up.
Salonga wants to control from the top but Rivera keeps moving.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Rivera looking to control.
Salonga is looking to work some ground and pound but Rivera has wrist control.
Rivera manages to land a sweep and now he's in mount on top!
Salonga is in a horrible position here, under a barrage of strikes, he's managing to avoid any damage.
Rivera looking to control and managing it successfully.
Salonga working to try and regain half guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Rivera cracks Salonga with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Salonga is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Salonga is in a horrible position here, under a barrage of strikes, he's managing to avoid any damage.
Salonga wants to improve position but instead he's given up his back.

Salonga is displaying good submission defense - not really looking in danger of submitting to the rear naked choke at the moment. That could change in an instant of course if Rivera gets his way!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Salonga is keeping busy.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Salonga is trying to break free.

Rivera is working on the RNC. He looks like he's got it but Salonga won't tap... Oh, he's out! The ref rips Rivera off his unconscious opponent!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:41 of round 4, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Astrud Rivera!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
93%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Maxx Shepard (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Ray Zaharn (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Zaharn comes into a darkened arena with his song building. 28 Days Later kicks in, the lights come on and the crowd goes wild! What a showman! Ray Zaharn has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Shepard
vs
Zaharn

170 cm
22
155 lbs
2 - 2 - 0

175 cm
22
158 lbs
6 - 9 - 0

Powerful takedowns
Decent elbows
Cardio machine

BJJ Brown Belt
Excellent boxer
Powerful

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Maxx Shepard!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 6 - 9 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Ray Zaharn!
The judges for this bout are Don Winkell, Frank Antenori and .

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Zaharn lets the fists fly and connects with a left straight followed by a right hook.
Zaharn looks to land a combination but Shepard avoids it well.
Zaharn listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Good shot there by Zaharn.
Zaharn with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Shepard tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Zaharn paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Zaharn throws a leg kick

and Shepard moves into the clinch.
Shepard lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Zaharn tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Shepard's elbow.
Zaharn swings wildly with an uppercut but Shepard uses good head movement to avoid it.
Zaharn misses with the head strike.

Shepard pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Zaharn throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Shepard tries to close the distance and clinch up but Zaharn swats him away and circles back towards the center.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Zaharn swats away the attempt to clinch by Shepard.
Zaharn throws a series of punches but Shepard moves out of range.
Shepard blocks a head kick by Zaharn.
Jab from Zaharn.
Zaharn tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Shepard was well out of range. Poor timing from Zaharn.
Zaharn connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Zaharn misses with the combination.
Zaharn tries a low kick but Shepard avoids it.
Zaharn jabs Shepard to the body, keeping him at a distance.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Shepard closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Zaharn looks like he'd prefer to be striking at range right now.
A head punch on the inside from Shepard fails to land.

Shepard's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Some wild striking there from Zaharn.
Zaharn scores with a decent looking hook.
Shepard slips under a jab.
Ray Zaharn is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Shepard misses with a takedown attempt
letting Zaharn counter with a right hand.
Shepard fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.

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

That's three minutes gone in the round.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters - he looks like he's thinking about a standup.

Shepard got a little sloppy there for a moment and Zaharn has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Shepard has managed to get both his arms back between Zaharn's legs - danger averted.
Shepard postures up in Zaharn's guard and throws a big left but Zaharn blocks it.
Zaharn utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Shepard tries to free his leg and advance position but Zaharn is retaining full guard.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Zaharn is on top in guard.
Shepard keeping moving, preventing Zaharn from controlling successfully.
Zaharn trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Shepard looking for a sweep. Not yet Shepard, not yet.
Shepard preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Shepard is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Zaharn wants to control from the top but Shepard keeps moving.

Shepard looking for a guillotine here but Zaharn defends easily.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Zaharn looking to pass the guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ray Zaharn dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!

Zaharn dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Shepard takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.

Shepard moves into the clinch.
Zaharn is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.
Zaharn misses with a hook from the clinch.
Shepard blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Zaharn stalling.
Zaharn working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Shepard is trying to pull guard but Zaharn has him pressed against the cage.

Shepard's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
The fight stays on the outside here - Shepard looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Shepard fails with a takedown attempt from distance.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Shepard wants to clinch up but Zaharn keeps it at a distance.
Ray Zaharn seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Zaharn scores with a nice head shot.
Zaharn throws a hook to the side of Shepard's head but Shepard sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Shepard is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Zaharn lands a leg kick that knocks Shepard off balance momentarily.
Zaharn fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Shepard looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Zaharn stuffs the takedown attempt from Shepard. Shepard gets slowly back to his feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Maxx Shepard. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Shepard defending well as Zaharn loads up on a big left hand.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Zaharn throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Shepard stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Shepard misses with a series of wild punches.
Shepard tries to clinch up but Zaharn circles away and keeps his distance.
Shepard ducks under a wild hook from Zaharn.

Shepard moves into the clinch.
Shepard tries to pull guard but Zaharn forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Zaharn is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.
Shepard can't get the takedown.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Shepard is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Zaharn has had enough of the clinch and is looking to separate.
Shepard tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Zaharn just stands there and leans against the cage.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Zaharn creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.

Shepard manages to break the clinch.
Zaharn misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Shepard.
Zaharn dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Shepard will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Zaharn throws a leg kick but Shepard sees it coming and checks it nicely.
Zaharn ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Shepard moves away.
Zaharn throws a jab when Shepard was well out of range.
Shepard tries to close the distance and clinch but Zaharn swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.

Shepard scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Zaharn has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Shepard is working away from the top position though.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Shepard is nestled in close to Zaharn, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.

Zaharn looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Shepard takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.

Shepard decides to stand up.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Shepard tries to clinch but Zaharn is having none of it.

Shepard has taken the fight to the clinch.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Zaharn stops a takedown attempt from Shepard.
Shepard tries to pull guard but Zaharn won't allow it.
Zaharn wants to get back to striking at distance but Shepard won't allow it.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Ray Zaharn will probably get the nod - 10:9.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!

Shepard throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Zaharn's waist but Zaharn gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Shepard off to one side.
Zaharn tries a low kick but Shepard avoids it.
Shepard fails with the takedown.

Shepard changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Zaharn looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Zaharn is looking to regain half guard here but Shepard keeps moving and retains side control.
Zaharn regains half guard.
The fighters are battling for position here. Zaharn manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Shepard landing with the ground and pound.
Shepard trying to stand up but can't free himself from Zaharn's guard.
Shepard working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Shepard has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Zaharn has his foot on Shepard's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Shepard works his way back into a safe position though.
Shepard throws a big elbow that misses.

Zaharn had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Shepard defends it easily.
Shepard advances position into side control!
Zaharn takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
You can see the frustration on Zaharn's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Shepard is looking to take a break and control but Zaharn is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Zaharn wants to get back to his feet but Shepard drags him back down.

Shepard has had enough of the ground for now and decides to stand.
Zaharn with a hook.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Zaharn scores with a sloppy right hand. Shepard should have avoided that one.
Zaharn misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Shepard.
Shepard is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Shepard walks into a left hand.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Zaharn thows a body shot but no joy.
Shepard slips a jab from Zaharn.
Zaharn misses with a wild body shot.
Zaharn misses with a straight left.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Shepard misses with a wild combination.
Shepard fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Maxx Shepard. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Zaharn attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Shepard shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Zaharn sprawls well. Zaharn wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Shepard gets slowly back to his feet.
Zaharn digs a good body shot into Shepard's ribs.
Shepard misses with a double jab.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Jab, jab by Zaharn - just one landing.
Zaharn misses with a wild combination.

Shepard scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Zaharn is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Zaharn can't do much from the bottom here.
Zaharn tries to buck Shepard off but Shepard is having none of it.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Zaharn regains half guard.

Shepard seems to be working for a kimura but Zaharn defends the submission attempt.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Shepard lands strikes from half guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close third round but Ray Zaharn just about did enough to take it.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!

Zaharn gets caught flat footed, as Shepard shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Shepard accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Zaharn not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Zaharn keeping moving, preventing Shepard from controlling successfully.
Zaharn wants to sweep here but Shepard controlling him for the moment.
Shepard trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.

Zaharn is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Shepard looking to pass the guard.
Maxx Shepard overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Shepard trying to control the position from guard on top but Zaharn is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Shepard pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Zaharn is keeping the position for now.
Shepard is pushing down on Zaharn's leg trying to pass to half guard. Zaharn is fighting to maintain full guard but Shepard has managed to sneak the leg through.
Zaharn is looking for a sweep. Shepard is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Shepard stops Zaharn from getting back to his feet.
Zaharn is absolutely dripping with sweat - he looks exhausted.
Shepard is trying to control. Zaharn wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Shepard tries to pass the half guard into mount. Zaharn knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Zaharn is looking to improve his position.
Zaharn keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Shepard landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Both fighters really going for it on the ground here!

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Shepard wants to control but Zaharn is keeping him busy.
Shepard prevents Zaharn from standing back up.
Shepard is looking to advance position but Zaharn won't allow it.
Zaharn is refusing to be controlled, as Shepard sits in half guard.
Zaharn regains full guard. Nicely done.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!

Shepard decides he's had enough of playing guard and decides to stand. Come on Zaharn, up you get!
Maxx Shepard is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Shepard shoots in for a double leg but Zaharn sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Zaharn defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Shepard.
Zaharn throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Shepard stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
A shot to the liver by Zaharn. Beautiful body shot.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
The fighters circling - Zaharn throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
A left and a right from Shepard both land. Nice combination.
Shepard jabs Zaharn right on the nose. Zaharn blinks but takes it well.
Shepard looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Zaharn throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Shepard.
Zaharn misses with the combination.
Zaharn stuffs the takedown.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Maxx Shepard. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Zaharn swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Zaharn ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Shepard moves away.
Sloppy strikes from Zaharn. Those never looked like landing.

Shepard darts in and clinches Zaharn up against the cage.
Shepard tries to pull guard but Zaharn forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Shepard is trying to pull guard but Zaharn has him pressed against the cage.

Zaharn breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Shepard keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Zaharn dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Shepard. That did some damage!
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Zaharn misses with a leg kick

and Shepard holds on and brings the fighters into a clinch.
Shepard is trying to pull guard but Zaharn has him pressed against the cage.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Shepard wants a takedown.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Maxx Shepard had his way with Ray Zaharn in that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! This is the final round!

Shepard connects with a high kick.
Shepard shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Zaharn but Zaharn pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Zaharn stuffs the takedown.
Zaharn throws a jab but it's blocked by Shepard.
Shepard tries to close the distance and clinch up but Zaharn swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Zaharn dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Shepard takes a head kick and keeps coming.
Shepard tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in the close the distance. Zaharn manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Zaharn throws a big shot that misses.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Shepard shoots in but Zaharn avoids the takedown attempt easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Maxx Shepard. That's going to take a lot out of him.
A shot to the liver by Zaharn. Beautiful body shot.
Both of our modern day gladiators look out of it here - an gruelling 5 rounds of action taking it's toll on them, no doubt.
Some wild striking there from Zaharn.
Zaharn swats away the attempt to clinch by Shepard.
Zaharn with a jab.
A telegraphed right hand from Zaharn misses the target.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Shepard moves into range and clinches up with Zaharn.
Zaharn looks like he'd prefer to be striking at range right now.
Zaharn has had enough of the clinch but Shepard keeps him there for the moment.
Shepard is working for takedown but Zaharn is calmly controlling the position for now.
Shepard blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Shepard fails to pull guard.
Zaharn wants to strike at distance but he can't break free of the clinch.

Shepard pulls guard effortlessly.
Zaharn looking to sit in guard and control but Shepard gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Shepard cracks Zaharn with a solid left hand.
Shepard distracts Zaharn with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Shepard has decided he wants to stand but the closed guard of Zaharn is proving hard to escape from.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Zaharn is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move.
Zaharn seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Shepard does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.

Shepard looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.

Zaharn is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Shepard sees it coming and defends easily.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Zaharn works his foot free and advances to mount.
Shepard avoids a series of strikes thrown by Zaharn.
Shepard manages to work a leg through to get back to half guard here. Good work there by Shepard, under a barage of strikes from Zaharn.
Zaharn is keen to just control but Shepard is a slippery customer.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.

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

Zaharn is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Shepard has managed to free his arm - good work.

And that's the end of the fight!
Ray Zaharn comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Zaharn has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.

Judge Don Winkell scores the fight for Ray Zaharn!
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight for Ray Zaharn!
Judge Percy O'Donnell scores the fight for Ray Zaharn!

Ray Zaharn wins by unanimous decision!
A relieved looking Ray Zaharn thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
94%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Santhiago Silva (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and tj Miller (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Santhiago Silva looks tired to me. Hopefully he has got enough gas left in the tank to put in a good performance.

Silva
vs
Miller

179 cm
19
139 lbs
1 - 5 - 0

170 cm
25
146 lbs
1 - 6 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Basic striking
Good chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Santhiago Silva!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, tj Miller!
The judges for this bout are Frank Antenori, Jack Bonds and Don Winkell.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Silva has managed to clinch.
Miller is looking for a takedown.
A short body shot lands from Miller as the two fighters clinch.
A frustrated look appears on Silva's face as he tries to break the clinch.

Miller escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.

Miller gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.

Miller breaks the clinch.
Miller blocks a head kick by Silva.
Silva is breathing heavily.
Silva tries to clinch
and Miller counters with a nice kick to the body.
A combination from Miller does no damage.

Miller shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Silva manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Miller controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Miller is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Silva knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Miller on the ground.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Miller trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Miller's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Miller controlling from the top position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Silva striking off his back but it's not causing Miller any problems.
Silva wants to get back to his feet but Miller is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Silva really does look like a pencil wearing a pair of gloves. Let's hope he has a gameplan to suit that ridiculous body shape.
Miller wants to pass the guard but Silva is keeping the position.

Miller decides he's had enough of playing guard and decides to stand. Come on Silva, up you get!

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Miller has closed the distance and engaged Silva in a clinch.

Miller breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.

Miller looking to score a takedown here. Silva is defending well but Miller drives through and ends up in Silva's guard.
Miller pushing down on Silva's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Miller is thwarting Silva's attempts to control the position.
Miller content to sit in half guard and control for a moment.
Miller working Silva over with strikes.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Miller passes to full mount!
Miller controlling his opponent.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Silva tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Miller controlling from mount.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Silva taking shots to the head.
Miller controlling from mount.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

tj Miller dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!

Miller throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Miller blocks a head kick by Silva.

Silva tries to keep at a distance but Miller has taken the fight into the clinch.

Miller turns his back and goes for a hip toss. It's a bit messy but it gets the job done and Miller manages to end up in side control.
Silva takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
Miller connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Silva some visible discomfort.
Miller takes a little break here. Silva wants to take advantage but he is being controlled well.
Let's hope that Miller has the urge to step up the pace any second now because for the last 15 or 20 seconds he's just been holding on tight.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Silva throws a couple of punches but he's in a bad position and they don't land.
Miller controls the position from side control.

Miller is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Silva knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Miller tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Silva tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Miller wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Miller controlling the position.
Silva trying to control but Miller flips him over like a cheap hooker and has his back!

Silva is trying to defend against the choke here but Miller has an arm under his chin. This one might not last much longer. Miller Tightens the hold and Silva taps out furiously! Miller displays superior BJJ to win the fight.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). tj Miller!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
43%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Dennis Washington (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jory Diaz (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). On his way into the cage it seems that Dennis Washington has been attacked by a crazed fan! It looks like it might have been the just bleed guy! Luckily Dennis Washington seems to be OK! I thought that lunatic was in prison!?

Washington
vs
Diaz

182 cm
20
180 lbs
3 - 4 - 0

175 cm
25
159 lbs
8 - 13 - 1

BJJ White Belt
Solid boxing
Very quick

BJJ White Belt
Excellent boxer
Knockout power

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, in the welterweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 3 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Dennis Washington!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 8 - 13 - 1, fighting out of Los Angeles, Jory Diaz!
The judges for this bout are Don Winkell, Timothy Bukovac and .

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Diaz just misses with a punch to the body.
Washington throws a series of strikes that have Diaz backpedaling.
A jab from Washington does it's job there.
Washington throws a 1-2 combo that connects squarely on Diaz's jaw, knocking him onto his back! Washington dives in looking to finish as Diaz flails his arms in a desperate attempt to block Washington's strikes! Washington is raining down hammerfists and the ref stops it! Diaz's desperate flailing just didn't constitute intelligent defence. Some people will probably question the ref's decision but Diaz was definitely hurt and the ref saved him from taking unnecessary punishment. A fighter's safety is paramount in this sport.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:12 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Dennis Washington!

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 welterweight MMA rules bout between James Hetfield (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Victor Washington (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Hetfield comes to the cage accompanied by seek & destroy. Victor Washington told me before the fight that he's been watching a lot of DVDs so let's see if that helps him in this one! I can't wait to find out!

Hetfield
vs
Washington

170 cm
22
168 lbs
3 - 1 - 1

180 cm
24
174 lbs
3 - 7 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Granite chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Knockout power

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, in the welterweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 3 - 1 - 1, fighting out of Los Angeles, James Hetfield!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 7 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Victor Washington!
The judges for this bout are Don Winkell, Jack Bonds and Timothy Bukovac.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Washington shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Hetfield counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Washington looks really tired already! That doesn't bode well for a good, competitive fight!

Hetfield moves into the clinch successfully.
Washington tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.

Hetfield's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
A solid body kick from Hetfield.
Hetfield scores with a jab to the body.
Washington fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Sloppy strikes from Hetfield. Those never looked like landing.

Hetfield clinches up against the cage.

Hetfield breaks the clinch.
Hetfield works Washington's body with a nice hook.
Hetfield lands a slapping body shot.
This has been an exciting period of action!

Hetfield moves into the clinch.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Hetfield escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
A head kick misses from Washington.
Hetfield bobs and weaves and then throws a good body kick.
Hetfield connects with a high kick.
Hetfield misses with a two punch combination.
A slapping body kick lands there for Washington.
Nice sprawl there from Hetfield as Washington shoots in.
James Hetfield has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Victor Washington.
Danga de danga de dang - Hetfield scores with a four punch combination!
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Hetfield is defended easily by Washington.
Hetfield tries a head kick but it misses.
Washington fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Hetfield gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Still in the clinch, Hetfield scores with a nice short uppercut.
Hetfield lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Washington backwards.

Hetfield breaks the clinch.
Hetfield shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Washington defends it nicely.
Washington scores with a kick to the body.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Washington closes the distance and clinches up with Hetfield, looking for a takedown. Washington pushes Hetfield against the cage but Hetfield circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Hetfield explodes with a nice body kick and back out of range. Nice work.

Hetfield clinches.

Washington ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Washington no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters - he looks like he's thinking about a standup.
Washington looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Hetfield has decided he wants to stand but the closed guard of Washington is proving hard to escape from.

Washington escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Hetfield gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Washington is controlling Hetfield's posture.

Washington is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Hetfield stands up over Washington, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.

Washington had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Hetfield defends it easily.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Hetfield accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Hetfield accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Hetfieldis looking to pass into half guard but Washington pushes him away with his feet and jumps on top - now Washington is in guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
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!
Hetfield is trying to control the position but Washington postures up.
Hetfield is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Washington is controlling him.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Washington slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

James Hetfield dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!

Washington throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Hetfield.

Hetfield moves into the clinch successfully.

Hetfield pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.

Washington fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Hetfield sprawls well initially but Washington persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Hetfield is trying to stand back up but Washington is controlling him
Hetfield pushes Washington off but Washington dives into side control.

Washington stands up and we're back to a striking position.
Hetfield throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Hetfield tries to close the distance and clinch but Washington swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Hetfield displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Washington.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Washington shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Hetfield as he jumps to the side.
Washington on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Hetfield. Hetfield obviously looking to wear him down.
Hetfield throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.
Good work by Washington as he checks the leg kick.
Hetfield tries to clinch but Washington is having none of it.
Washington misses with a few strikes there.
James Hetfield is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Washington has a takedown stuffed.
James Hetfield has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Victor Washington.

Hetfield gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.

Hetfield manages to break the clinch.
James Hetfield is winning the standup battle so far.
Washington shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Hetfield as he avoids it easily.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Washington shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Hetfield but Hetfield pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Washington wants to land a leg kick but Hetfield is out of range.
Hetfield defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Washington.
Hetfield throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
Washington is trying hard to land a takedown here. Hetfield sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.

Hetfield scores with a takedown into Washington's guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Hetfield wants to stand and escape but instead Washington has hit a sweep and he's now on top in guard.
Hetfield knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Washington on the ground.
Hetfield looking to control.
Hetfield wants to control but Washington passes easily into half guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Washington stands, ready to strike. The ref makes him back up and allows Hetfield to get to his feet.
Horrible takedown by Washington or perhaps it was just good defense by Hetfield which made him look bad.
Hetfield leaves Washington with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Washington tries for a takedown but Hetfield sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Washington takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Victor Washington seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.

Hetfield looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
Washington moves into full guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Washington has an active guard here but Hetfield has managed to pass into half guard.

Hetfield stands up and beckons Washington to join him on the feet.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Hetfield goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Hetfield throws a right hand that Washington ducks under and follows up with a left that Washington also avoids with ease.

Hetfield scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Hetfield working Washington over with strikes.
Hetfield working over Washington with some ground and pound. Washington looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Hetfield thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.

Washington looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

James Hetfield dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.

Hetfield throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Washington shoots in for a takedown but Hetfield shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Hetfield scores with a jab. Washington acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Hetfield bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Washington's head.
Hetfield ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Washington shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Hetfield defends it nicely.
Washington throws a quick head kick that skims the top of Hetfield's head.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Hetfield swinging wildly here.
Washington's corner calls for a 1, 2 combination and Washington duly obliges.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hetfield shuffles to his left behind two crisp jabs. Washington eats them both and turns towards Hetfield to reposition himself and eats a stinging right hand-left hook combo.
Hetfield shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Washington as he avoids it easily.
Nice shot lands for Washington.

Washington gets a takedown into half guard.

Washington seems to be working for a kimura but Hetfield defends the submission attempt.
Washington prevents Hetfield from standing back up.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Washington is thwarting Hetfield's attempts to control the position.
Washington passes to side control.
Washington working away.

Washington wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Hetfield, who protects the arm well.
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!
Hetfield seems a little lost for a moment, as Washington dominates the positioning.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Washington working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Washington misses with an attempted head punch from side control.
Hetfield tries to improve position but can't.
Hetfield is trying to escape and get back to his feet.
Hetfield is letting Washington control him for a moment.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
The strikes coming from Washington are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Hetfield is trying to escape and get back to his feet.

Washington decides to take the fight back to the feet.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Victor Washington really dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!

Washington shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Hetfield pinned against the cage. Hetfield gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Hetfield explodes with a nice body kick and back out of range. Nice work.
Hetfield moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Hetfield thuds a left hand into Washington's body.
Washington has a nice red mark on his side after a thudding body kick by Hetfield.
Hetfield throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Washington.
A head kick misses from Washington.
Washington misses with a few strikes there.
Washington shoots in for a double leg but Hetfield sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Hetfield closes the distance and lands a one-two.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Washington lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Hetfield circles away quickly and effectively.
Hetfield throws a mid kick that lands with a slap.
Washington shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Hetfield defends it nicely.
James Hetfield has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Victor Washington.

Hetfield has Washington up against the cage in a clinch.

Hetfield breaks the clinch.
Hetfield pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Washington tries for a takedown but Hetfield sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.

Washington scores with a takedown into Hetfield's guard.
Hetfield is trying to control the position but Washington postures up.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Washington forces his way into half guard.

Washington seems to be working for a kimura but Hetfield defends the submission attempt.
Washington is taking a breather. Hetfield 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.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Washington missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Washington stands up out of the half guard.
Hetfield tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in the close the distance. Washington manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Washington listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.

Washington dives in and scores a takedown into Hetfield's guard.
Hetfield keeping moving, preventing Washington from controlling successfully.
Hetfield working a defensive guard but Washington manages to pass into side control anyway.
Washington misses with a strike but at least he's keeping busy, looking to cause some damage - that will still help him when it comes to the judges scorecards.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Washington creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Hetfield sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Hetfield is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Washington has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Washington trying to control the position but Hetfield is working away.
Washington working away.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Washington tries for a kimura but Hetfield is defending well.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Victor Washington dominated that fourth round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! This is the final round!

Hetfield gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Hetfield keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Washington's efforts to push away.

Hetfield breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Washington takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Washington shoots and misses
and Hetfield makes the exchange count by landing a cracking kick to the body. Washington really felt that one!

Hetfield closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Washington wants to control but Hetfield is keeping busy.
Both of our modern day gladiators look out of it here - an gruelling 5 rounds of action taking it's toll on them, no doubt.
Hetfield working the head and body with strikes.
Hetfield throws a big elbow that misses, also allowing Washington to regain full guard.

Washington kicks Hetfield off and gets to his feet.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Washington swats away the attempt to clinch by Hetfield.
Washington connects with a nice looking jab.
Hetfield is trying hard to land a takedown here. Washington sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Washington will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Hetfield throws a body kick that digs right into the meat.

Hetfield pushes Washington up against the cage in a clinch.

Hetfield breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Washington doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Hetfield counters with a flying knee. Nice.
James Hetfield has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Victor Washington.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Washington.
Hetfield throws a right hand that Washington ducks under and follows up with a left that Washington also avoids with ease.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Hetfield throws the kick towards the body but Washington avoids it.
Washington shoots for a double leg takedown but Hetfield sprawls well. He's pushed Washington's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Washington tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Hetfield swivels and escapes.
Hetfield is looking to wear down Washington with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Washington lands with a slapping head kick.
Nice sprawl there from Hetfield as Washington shoots in.
Washington shoots for a takedown but Hetfield saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Hetfield scores with a push kick.
Hetfield throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Washington avoids the head kick by Hetfield.
Washington shoots for a takedown but Hetfield saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Hetfield lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Washington blocks a head kick by Hetfield.
Washington tries to score a power double leg takedown but Hetfield sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Washington somewhat.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Washington fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Washington fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Hetfield scores with the left hand. Washington knows he should have avoided that one.
Hetfield lands with a head kick! That's gotta hurt.

Washington shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Hetfield's guard.
Hetfield is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Washington postures up in Hetfield's guard and throws a big left but Hetfield blocks it.
Hetfield is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Washington wants to control from the top but Hetfield keeps moving.

Washington is trying to work a guillotine from the top, or something like that? Don't know how he thinks he's going to get a finish from there.
Hetfield trying to control the position.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
Washington won't allow Hetfield to get back to his feet.

And that's the end of the fight!
James Hetfield showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Hetfield has won this one but let's see what the judges have to say. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight for James Hetfield!
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight for James Hetfield!
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight for James Hetfield!

James Hetfield wins by unanimous decision!
James Hetfield thanked the fans post fight for their support.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
94%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Pejro Karesky (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Amir Sadollah (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Amir Sadollah has the power to score a knockout today if he connects clean with Pejro Karesky's chin.

Karesky
vs
Sadollah

177 cm
19
170 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

180 cm
26
158 lbs
5 - 3 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Very strong

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent MT
Determined

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, in the welterweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Pejro Karesky!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 5 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Amir Sadollah!
The judges for this bout are , Frank Antenori and Jack Bonds.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Sadollah lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Karesky has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Karesky and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
A jab lands there for Karesky.

It looks like Amir Sadollah has been cut.
Karesky throws a nice looking combination but Sadollah bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Karesky pushes forward with a 1-2 combination that forces Sadollah back to the cage. Karesky follows up with a solid lead hook to the liver.
That kick from Sadollah tenderised Karesky's leg. Karesky is trying to keep his angry face on.
Karesky thuds his right hand into Sadollah's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Sadollah slips a jab and a cross from Karesky.
Sadollah wants to clinch.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Sadollah doesn't manage to clinch there - Karesky circles away.
Karesky lands with a cross.
Pejro Karesky seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Karesky with a jab.

Sadollah is rocked!
Karesky drops Sadollah with a naaaaasty hook - Sadollah is in real trouble here! Karesky dives in to side control and pounds out his opponent for a TKO victory! The crowd goes nuts!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:47 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Pejro Karesky!

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 featherweight MMA rules bout between Lance Nasri (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Marcus Graham (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Marcus Graham has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Nasri
vs
Graham

173 cm
19
155 lbs
3 - 3 - 0

167 cm
25
135 lbs
5 - 5 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent boxer
Big right hand

BJJ Purple Belt
Counter striker
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 3 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Lance Nasri!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 5 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Marcus Graham!
The judges for this bout are Jack Bonds, Frank Antenori and Timothy Bukovac.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Graham misses with a takedown attempt
and Nasri counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Graham keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Nasri looks to land a combination but Graham avoids it well.
Nasri swings wildly with a couple of big hooks

so Graham counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters - he looks like he's thinking about a standup.
Nasri is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Graham is controlling him.
Graham trying to stand up but can't free himself from Nasri's guard.
Graham pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Nasri is keeping the position for now.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Graham would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard.

The ref stands the fighters back up. Marcus Graham was stalling too much, according to the referee.
Nasri pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Nasri throws a jab when Graham was well out of range.
Nasri takes a swing at Graham's ribcage but misses.
Lance Nasri is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Graham is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Nasri lands a glancing blow to the side of Graham's head.
Nasri throws a right and a left that both miss.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Nasri misses with a two punch combination.
Graham misses with a takedown
and Nasri counters with a left and a right that stings Graham.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Nasri, as that shot connected.
Graham has a takedown stuffed.
Lance Nasri has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Marcus Graham.
Graham lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.

It looks like Lance Nasri has been cut.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graham fails with the takedown.
Nasri misses with a two punch combination.
Graham changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Nasri tries to avoid it but Graham manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Nasri to the ground. Nasri escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
No luck for Graham with that takedown attempt.
Nasri lunges at Graham with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Graham's hand.
Nasri throws a right and a left that both miss.
Graham with a poor takedown
and Graham takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Nasri swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Graham tries to clinch there but Nasri circles away.
Graham shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Nasri sprawls well. Nasri wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Graham gets slowly back to his feet.
Graham shoots in but Nasri avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Graham needs to keep his hands up - Nasri had a free shot at his head there.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Nasri throws a right and a left that both miss.
Nasri misses with a series of wild punches.
Nasri takes a swing at Graham's ribcage but misses.
Nasri scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Graham has a takedown stuffed.
Nasri lands a jab to the nose.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Nasri lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.
A swing and a miss from Nasri.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Lance Nasri dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Lance Nasri's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.

Graham shoots in looking for a takedown but Nasri manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Graham's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Nasri throws a jab but it's blocked by Graham.
Graham fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Nasri lands a body shot.
Nasri throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped

and Graham counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.

Nasri pushes Graham off for just long enough to get back to his feet. Very athletic spring there.
Nasri misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Lance Nasri is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Graham tries to close the distance and clinch but Nasri swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Nasri stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Nasri wants it to stay on the feet.
Lance Nasri has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Marcus Graham.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graham fails with a takedown attempt from distance.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nasri lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Graham circles away quickly and effectively.
Nasri misses with a double jab.
Nasri stalks Graham and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Graham's face. Graham staggers backwards, shaken.
Nasri lands a two punch combo.
Nasri leaves Graham with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Nasri scores with a hook.
Graham fails with the takedown

and Nasri decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Graham's guard.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graham bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Nasri's guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Graham stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Nasri swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graham works a leg free and moves into half guard.

Graham is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Graham passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Nasri!

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Nasri bucks up and throws Graham to the side - he's got back to his feet. Great escape!
Graham tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Nasri swivels and escapes.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Graham showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Nasri.
Graham closes this distance looking for a takedown but Nasri circles away.
Nasri swings wildly with a couple of big hooks

and Graham decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Nasri's guard.
Graham won't allow Nasri to get back to his feet.
Nasri on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Nasri tries to get out of the position.
Graham pushes down on Nasri's leg and manages to get into half guard.

Graham wants to work for an arm triangle but Nasri is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Marcus Graham will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Lance Nasri's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!

Graham avoids the body shot from Nasri.
Graham shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Nasri as he avoids it easily.
Nasri lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Graham circles away quickly and effectively.
Nasri lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.
Nasri just misses with a punch to the body.
Nasri lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Graham circles away quickly and effectively.
Graham shoots in and drives through. Nasri sprawls well.
Nasri lands with a shot to the body.
Lance Nasri seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graham shoots in and drives through. Nasri sprawls well.
Lance Nasri has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Marcus Graham.
Nasri throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Graham.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Graham shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Nasri but Nasri pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Nasri misses with a lunging right hand

and Graham counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Graham slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Nasri is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Graham asserts his dominance and retains side control.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Graham is trying to move to mount but Nasri reverses beautifully and ends up in Graham's guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Nasri wants to control from the top but Graham keeps moving.
Nasri is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Nasri lands a couple of elbows.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Graham is working an open guard here, looking to improve his position. No doubt that will leave him open to counters but at least he's being more offensive.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graham is looking to sweep but instead, Nasri has passed into half guard.

Nasri is looking for a kimura but Graham is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Nasri to get the leverage.
Nasri looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Nasri wants to stand but Graham has hold of a leg and an arm, so he's trapped for now.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Nasri wants to work for an arm triangle but Graham is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Graham is trying to stand up here but Nasri is controlling him well.

Graham looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Nasri wants to pass to mount but Graham is defending the position.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Nasri is working hard here to advance position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but Lance Nasri did the better work so I'd imagine he'll take it.
The cut man is working on Lance Nasri's cut.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action.

Nasri throws a two punch combo that lands nicely.
Nasri throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Graham fails with a takedown attempt.
Graham tries to close the distance and clinch up but Nasri swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Graham shoots for a takedown but Nasri saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Graham shoots in and drives through. Nasri sprawls well.
Lance Nasri has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Marcus Graham.

Graham drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Nasri knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Graham on the ground.
Nasri wants to stand and escape but Graham is having none of it.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nasri keeping full guard, as Graham tries to pass.
Graham is pushing down on Nasri's leg trying to pass to half guard. Nasri is fighting to maintain full guard but Graham has managed to sneak the leg through.

Graham is working for a kimura but Nasri is defending it quite comfortably.

Graham is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Nasri has managed to free his arm - good work.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Graham is trying to work for a kimura but Nasri is defending well.
Nasri is trying to stand back up but Graham is controlling him

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Graham seems to be looking for submissions.
Graham works his way into side control.

Graham decides to stand up, so the ref orders Nasri to his feet.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The fight stays on the outside here - Graham looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Nasri throws a one two combo.
Graham shoots for a double leg takedown but Nasri sprawls well. He's pushed Graham's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Nasri keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Nasri ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Sloppy strikes from Nasri. Those never looked like landing.
Nasri scores with a one two! Graham had his feet all tangled up there and couldn't avoid the strikes.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Marcus Graham dominated that fourth round.
The cut man is working on Lance Nasri's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! This is the final round!

A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Graham.
Nasri misses with a combination

and Graham decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Nasri's guard.

Graham stands up from Nasri's guard - Graham perhaps looking for a knockout.
Nasri throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Some wild striking there from Nasri.
Nasri loads up on a big right hand but Graham slips the punch.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Graham gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Nasri cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Graham uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Nasri.
Nasri fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Both of our modern day gladiators look out of it here - an gruelling 5 rounds of action taking it's toll on them, no doubt.
Nasri stuffs the takedown attempt from Graham. Graham gets slowly back to his feet.
Lance Nasri has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Marcus Graham.
Nasri looks to land a combination but Graham avoids it well.
Nasri misses with the combination.
Graham fails with a takedown attempt.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Graham misses with a takedown
and Nasri counters with a right hand to the body.
Nasri will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Graham misses with a jab, cross combination.
Nasri throws a combination that misses
and Graham counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Graham takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Graham shoots in for a takedown but Nasri shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Nasri stuffs the takedown.
Nasri swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Nasri tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graham was well out of range. Poor timing from Nasri.
Graham doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Nasri counters with a nice uppercut.
Graham shoots in but Nasri avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Graham takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Nasri throws a one two combo.
Graham doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Nasri counters with a three punch combo that has Graham backing up. Graham nods at Nasri to acknowledge the strikes.
Graham shoots for a takedown but Nasri saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Graham dives in and grabs Nasri's left leg, looking for a takedown. Nasri pushes down on Graham's head and hops out.
A shot to the liver by Nasri. Beautiful body shot.
Graham takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Nasri works over Graham's head and body with a nice combination.
Nasri fails to land with a series of punches.
Graham shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Nasri throws an overhand right that lands on Graham's shoulder, as Graham tries to avoid the shot.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.

Nasri scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graham is trying to work for a sweep but Nasri has mounted him!
Graham slips a leg in and gets back to half guard.

And that's the end of the fight!
That was a close round. You could make an argument for either fighter but I would give it to Lance Nasri.
I think Nasri has won this one but let's see what the judges have to say. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight for Lance Nasri!
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight as a draw!
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight for Marcus Graham!

The fight ends as a draw!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
94%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Kj Barakus (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Michael Johnson (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Johnson has chosen lunatic fringe as his entrance music. Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Barakus
vs
Johnson

183 cm
23
200 lbs
4 - 5 - 0

185 cm
27
210 lbs
7 - 11 - 0

Good wrestling
Counter striker
Very strong

Good wrestler
Brawler
Knockout power

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, in the light heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 4 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Kj Barakus!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 7 - 11 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Michael Johnson!
The judges for this bout are Frank Antenori, Don Winkell and Timothy Bukovac.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Johnson throws a right hand that Barakus ducks under and follows up with a left that Barakus also avoids with ease.
Sloppy strikes from Johnson. Those never looked like landing.
Johnson shoots and misses

and Barakus moves into the clinch.
Johnson tries to circle away but Barakus has him pinned against the cage.
Johnson prevents the takedown attempt.
Barakus tries a body shot but Johnson blocks it.
Barakus is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.

Barakus turns his hips and lands a very nice judo throw into side control!
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.
Johnson is trying to buck Barakus off.
Johnson tries to buck Barakus off but Barakus is having none of it.
Barakus wants to control but Johnson is keeping him busy.
Barakus is chipping away with strikes.

Johnson bucks up and manages to escape back to his feet!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.

Barakus shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Barakus showed some decent athleticism there.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Barakus working over Johnson with some ground and pound. Johnson looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Johnson is trying to stand up here but Barakus is controlling him well.
Barakus keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.

Barakus decides he's had enough of the ground and stands up.
Barakus shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Johnson as he avoids it easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Kj Barakus. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Johnson misses with a jab, cross combination.
Johnson throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Barakus shoots in for a double leg but Johnson sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
A shot to the liver by Johnson. Beautiful body shot.
Johnson misses with a jab, cross combination.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Johnson misses with a few strikes there.
Michael Johnson seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Johnson shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Johnson stuffs the takedown attempt from Barakus. Barakus gets slowly back to his feet.
Johnson throws a nice looking combination but Barakus bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Johnson stuffs the takedown.

Barakus gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Johnson can't break the clinch.
Barakus has Johnson pressed against the cage, preventing Johnson from circling away and getting back to striking at range.
Johnson is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.

Barakus decides to pull guard.

Barakus looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Barakus looking for a sweep. Not yet Barakus, not yet.
Barakus is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move.
Barakus stops Johnson from getting back to his feet.
Johnson is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Barakus's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Barakus's back!
Johnson is throwing strikes by Barakus counters by rolling into a better position. After a scramble, Barakus regains half guard.
Johnson tries to stand but can't do so whilst Barakus controls his leg.
Johnson missing with the ground and pound from half guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Barakus kicks off Johnson and gets to his feet.
Johnson throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Barakus.
Barakus dives in and grabs Johnson's left leg, looking for a takedown. Johnson pushes down on Barakus's head and hops out.
Johnson throws a sloppy head kick and Barakus moves out of range easily.
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Johnson!
Johnson throws an overhand right that lands on Barakus's shoulder, as Barakus tries to avoid the shot.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!

Excellent takedown into side control there by Barakus.
Barakus is working Johnson over with some ground and pound from side control.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Barakus scores with punches from side control.
Barakus working the ground and pound.
Barakus works to advance to full mount. Johnson defends for a few seconds but eventually he succumbs.
Johnson is trying to escape but when you're mounted that's not too easy.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kj Barakus dominated that round.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action.

Barakus changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Johnson tries to avoid it but Barakus manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Johnson to the ground. Johnson escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Johnson throws a series of punches but Barakus avoids them all with ease.
Johnson misses with a series of wild punches.
A low kick from Johnson is predictable there

and Barakus counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Johnson avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Johnson is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Barakus is controlling him.
Barakus landing with the ground and pound.
Barakus postures up in Johnson's guard and throws a big left but Johnson blocks it.
Barakus with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.

Johnson is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Kj Barakus overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Johnson looking for a sweep. Not yet Johnson, not yet.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Barakus lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Barakus postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Barakus stops Johnson from standing up.
Johnson is breathing heavily.
Barakus lands a couple of elbows.
Barakus chips away with some ground and pound.
Barakus wants to control from the top but Johnson keeps moving.
Barakus sitting in guard here, content to control.
Barakus is in close to Johnson's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Barakus throws a big right hand that misses.
Barakus prevents Johnson from getting back to his feet.
Johnson avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Johnson has momentary wrist control but Barakus slips an elbow through the middle.
Barakus throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Johnson wants to sweep here but Barakus controlling him for the moment.
Barakus lands a couple of digs.
Barakus distracts Johnson with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Barakus won't allow Johnson to get back to his feet.
Johnson keeping full guard, as Barakus tries to pass.
Barakus wants to control from the top but Johnson keeps moving.
Barakus scoring with punches to the head and body.
Barakus lands a couple of elbows.
Barakus scoring with some ground and pound.
Johnson wants to stand up but Barakus is controlling him.
Barakus lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Barakus with a flurry of punches that miss.
Barakus working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Johnson has momentary wrist control but Barakus slips an elbow through the middle.
Barakus has been looking to land a fair amount of strikes on the ground. He might be looking to soften his opponent up in order to work for a submission.
Barakus lands a couple of digs.
Barakus scoring with punches to the head and body.
Barakus working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Johnson wants to stand but Barakus is controlling the position.

Johnson is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Barakus is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Johnson is looking to stand back up... there's a bit of a scramble and Barakus dives into side control.
Johnson taking a bit of punishment here - Barakus scoring with strikes.
Johnson tries to wriggle free to get back to his feet but he's given up his back! Oops.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Johnson can't escape the position.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Oooh a big shot gets through from Barakus. Many more shots like that and the referee will have to think about stepping in!
Barakus tries to keep control of the position but Johnson is staying busy.
Barakus lands a shot to the head.
Johnson looking to stop the rear naked choke attempt by controlling the hands.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Barakus lands punches and elbows.
Barakus controlling well, preventing Johnson from escaping the position.
Johnson looking to stop the rear naked choke attempt by controlling the hands.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Barakus connects with a big shot to the side of Johnson's head.

Johnson is rocked!
A lull in the action here.
Johnson is still in real trouble! Can Barakus finish him?
Barakus lands shots to the head and Johnson turtles up! The ref has seen enough and stops the fight! This one is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:57 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Kj Barakus!
Kj Barakus thanked the fans post fight for their support.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
48%

Main event

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Alberto Vasquez (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Xiao Long Li (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Alberto Vasquez had real problems making weight for this fight. After initially coming in at 146.3lbs, he had two hours to make the official fight weight. He made it but it will have taken a lot out of him to cut those extra few pounds. Alberto Vasquez has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Vasquez
vs
Long Li

168 cm
24
158 lbs
5 - 3 - 0

172 cm
30
150 lbs
12 - 5 - 0

Good takedowns
Solid boxing
Granite chin

BJJ Purple Belt
Good kicks
Powerful

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Alberto Vasquez!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 12 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Xiao Long Li!
The judges for this bout are Timothy Bukovac, Frank Antenori and .

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Li stuffs the takedown.
Vasquez shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Li counters with a leg kick.
Li dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Vasquez. That did some damage!
Vasquez has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Li.
Vasquez tries for a takedown but Li circles away easily
and Li counters with a nice uppercut.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Alberto Vasquez. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Li cracks the inside of Vasquez's front leg.
Vasquez takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Li lands with a thumping leg kick.
Vasquez is breathing heavily.
Vasquez misses with a takedown
and Li counters with a good low kick that Vasquez was not able to check.
Vasquez looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Li is fending him off so far but Vasquez persists. Nope, Li circles away and we're back to standing.
Li's jab looks to have found its range, popping Vasquez under the eye.
Li lands a nice looking body kick.
Li lets loose with a powerful body kick. Vasquez will feel that in the morning.
Li connects with a crisp jab.
Thud! ouch! good body kick from Li - that will leave a mark!
Li with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Vasquez tries to keep at a distance but Li has taken the fight into the clinch.
Li throws a nice elbow but it doesn't land.
Li is pushing Vasquez up against the cage, for a bit of lean and pray action. Action being used the in the loosest possible sense of the word.
Li is trying to wear down his opponent with knees to the body.
Good body shot from Li.
Li lands a good knee to the midsection. Vasquez won't want to take too many of those.

Li drags the fight down to the ground.

Vasquez has a momentary lapse of concentration, allowing Li to throw up a leg and lock on what appears to be a pretty tight triangle! Vasquez is fighting it off but it's all too little too late - Li pulls down on the head and he's put Vasquez to sleep! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Xiao Long Li!
After winning the bout, Xiao Long Li thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.