LFL 73 - Watson vs Donovan PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Peter Kent (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Angelo Villar (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Kent comes into the arena with I'll be Back blaring out of the sound system. Villar has chosen Kamao as his entrance music. These two fighters really are very evenly matched on the feet - it will be fascinating to see who can assert themselves in that aspect of the fight.

Kent
vs
Villar

182 cm
25
196 lbs
7 - 7 - 0

170 cm
30
197 lbs
8 - 13 - 0

Good wrestling
Excellent boxer
Big right hand

Good wrestler
Dangerous knees
Good gas tank

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 7 - 7 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Peter Kent!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 8 - 13 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Angelo Villar!
The judges for this bout are Shigeki Fujiwara, Kenichi Hosakawa and Taro Takaoka.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Villar tries to score a power double leg takedown but Kent sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Villar somewhat.
Villar keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Kent thows a body shot but no joy.
Villar looks to land a body kick but Kent moved away.
Villar uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Kent.
Villar has a takedown stuffed.
Villar dodges the punch combination from Kent.
Villar fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Kent checks it well.
Kent misses with a double jab.

Villar looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
The referee is asking the fighters to pick up the pace.
Kent throws a couple of shots from the bottom but they don't land.
Villar with a flurry of punches that miss.
Villar with a flurry of punches that miss.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Villar throws a big right hand that misses.
Kent looking to control.
Kent 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.
Villar with a nice head shot there.
Villar really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Kent. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Villar accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Villar throws an elbow that misses. Kent uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Villar's guard. Nice move by Kent!

Kent gets to his feet. Villar looking to butt scoot but the ref puts an end to that. On your feet son!
Kent tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Villar was well out of range. Poor timing from Kent.
Kent slaps away a takedown attempt from Villar, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Peter Kent has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Angelo Villar.
Kent scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Kent avoids a kick to the body.

Villar is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Kent's half guard.
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!
Kent is controlling Villar's position as best he can from this difficult position.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Villar not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Kent moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Kent is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move.
Kent wants to take a breather but Villar is having none of it.

Kent stands up from half guard.
Kent connects with a single shot there.
Villar misses with a body kick.
Villar takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Kent jabs at Villar's body.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Villar shoots in and drives through. Kent sprawls well.
Villar pivots, looking for a leg kick but Kent is out of range and Villar settles back down.
Kent lands a jab to the head.
Kent lands a nice looking body shot.
Kent showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Villar.
Villar throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Villar looks for the body kick but Kent saw that one coming.
No joy there for Villar, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Villar misses with a double jab.
Peter Kent is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Kent lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Villar shoots for a takedown but Kent saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Villar looks gassed!
Kent lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Villar circles away quickly and effectively.
Kent swinging wildly here.
Villar gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Kent misses with a looping left.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Villar shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Kent as he jumps to the side.

Kent pushes Villar up against the cage in a clinch.
A nice left hand lands by Kent.

Kent manages to break the clinch.
Peter Kent seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Kent lands a slapping body shot.
Kent scores with a nice one two combo and darts back out of range to avoid anything coming in the opposite direction.
Kent takes a body punch but keeps moving.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Villar walks into a jab.
Villar misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Kent is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Villar misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.

Villar fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Kent sprawls well initially but Villar persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Kent connects with a single shot there.
A looping hook to the body misses from Kent. Villar does a little dance to reset his feet.
Kent comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Villar throws a head kick that misses.
Kent takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Kent lands a jab.
Villar uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Kent.
Angelo Villar is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Villar goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Villar misses with a few strikes there.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Villar is defended easily by Kent.
Villar tries to move into range but Kent moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Kent connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Kent takes a swing at Villar's ribcage but misses.
Villar walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Kent takes a swing at Villar's ribcage but misses.
Villar takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Kent needs to keep his hands up - Villar had a free shot at his head there.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Villar lands with a straight right. Kent didn't see that one coming.
Kent avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Kent swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Villar slips a jab and a cross from Kent.
Peter Kent is winning the standup battle so far.
Villar throws a right hand that misses
and Kent counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Kent stuffs the takedown attempt from Villar. Villar gets slowly back to his feet.
Kent misses with a body punch

and Villar counters with a takedown into side control.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Kent sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.

Kent manages to escape and get back to his feet!

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Kent misses with a wild body shot.
Kent scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Kent connects with a jab.
Kent checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Kent stuffs the takedown.
Peter Kent has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Angelo Villar.
Villar throws a head kick that misses.
Villar is breathing heavily.
Kent dips to his left and cracks Villar with an uppercut!
Villar takes one on the button.
Kent Rushes Villar and starts throwing punches like they are going out of style! Villar is up against the cage and has nowhere to go. Kent Piles on the pressure and Villar crumples to the floor! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:41 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Peter Kent!
Peter Kent decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
74%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Psil Ander (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Ollie Ritch (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Ander
vs
Ritch

192 cm
31
205 lbs
16 - 17 - 1

193 cm
23
205 lbs
5 - 5 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Great elbows
Very strong

Good wrestler
Excellent boxer
Good gas tank

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the light heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 16 - 17 - 1, fighting out of Tokyo, Psil Ander!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 5 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Ollie Ritch!
The judges for this bout are Shirou Masuda, Ren Mimura and Yasuomi Hirokawa.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Ander is looking to score with low kicks.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Ritch tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Ander wants to clinch up but Ritch keeps it at a distance.
Ander on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Ritch scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Ander throws a leg kick but Ritch sees it coming and checks it nicely.
Ritch avoids a kick to the body.
Ander connects with a high kick.
Ritch lands with an overhand left.
Nice body punch from Ritch.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ritch blocks the body kick.
Ander throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.
Ritch moves out of range of the body kick from Ander.
Ander doesn't manage to clinch there - Ritch circles away.
Ander throws a feint and then finishes with a kick to the body.
Ander tries to land a front kick but Ritch steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Ander throws a wild body kick that Ritch sees coming a mile off.
A slapping leg kick lands for Ander.
Ritch throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
Ritch throws a right and a left that both miss.
Ritch rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Ander moves out of range and avoids them all easily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ritch scores with a jab. Ander acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Psil Ander is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Ander gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Ritch throws a right hand that Ander ducks under and follows up with a left that Ander also avoids with ease.
Ander throws a head kick that misses.
Ritch misses with a wild combination.
Ander on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Ritch avoids the head kick by Ander.
Ritch is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Ander.
Ander dodges the punch combination from Ritch.
Ritch tests Ander's chin there with a solid looking shot.

Ander closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!

Ritch pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Ander looks to land a body kick but Ritch moved away.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Ritch throws a sloppy head kick
and Ander counters with a good low kick that Ritch was not able to check.
Ander throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Ritch.
Ander moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Ritch throws a sloppy head kick and Ander moves out of range easily.
Ander keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Ander staying out of range there.
Ander takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Ander thows a body kick. Ritch tries to catch it but that hurt him.
Ander slips under a jab from Ritch.
Ritch avoids a kick to the body.
Ander pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Ander throws a head kick that misses.
A slapping body kick lands there for Ander.
Ritch misses with an uppercut. Ander saw that one coming.
Ander takes a punch to the jaw and another one to the bread basket.
Ander throws a head kick that misses.
A slapping body kick lands there for Ritch.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Ander connects with an inside leg kick.
A head kick misses from Ander.
Ander lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Ander is looking to clinch.
Ander slips under a jab from Ritch.
Ritch throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Ander on the side of the head.
Ander tries to close the distance and clinch but Ritch swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Ritch moves out of range as Ander throws a body kick.
Ritch misses with an uppercut. Ander saw that one coming.
Ander tries to land a leg kick but Ritch saw it coming and moves away.
Ritch might want to mix his strikes up a bit more. He's just going for head shots at the moment and that can become a bit predictable.

Ritch has Ander up against the cage in a clinch.
Ander is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Ritch is defending well for now.

Ander breaks from the clinch.
Ritch misses the shot to the body.
Ander lands with a kick to the temple. Ritch shrugs as if to say "is that all you've got?"
Ritch swings and misses with a hook to the body.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Ander forces Ritch back against the cage and clinches.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ander missing with knees to the body.
Stalling in the clinch from Ritch.

Ander breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Ritch swinging wildly here.
Ander throws a sloppy head kick and Ritch moves out of range easily.
Ritch throws a head kick that misses.
Ander thuds a mid kick into his opponent's body. That will wear on Ritch if he has to take too many more of those.
Ander blocks a head kick by Ritch.
A telegraphed right hand from Ritch misses the target.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Ander avoids the head kick by Ritch.
Ander with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Ritch to score with a decent uppercut.

Ander gets a clinch.
Ander tries to circle away but Ritch has him pinned against the cage.
Ander throws a nice elbow but it doesn't land.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Ollie Ritch will probably get the nod.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.

Ander pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Ollie Ritch seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Ritch scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Ander doesn't seem bothered though.
Ritch circles away from the clinch attempt.
Ander blocks a head kick by Ritch.
Ritch takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie.
Ritch tries a head kick but it misses.
Ritch blocks a head kick by Ander.
Ander blocks a jab.
Ander misses with a low kick.
Ander looks to land a body kick but Ritch moved away.
Ander ducks under a wild hook from Ritch.
Ritch has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Ander.
Ritch jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Ander on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
A combination from Ritch does no damage.
Ander looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
A nice inside leg kick there by Ander. That's going to slow Ritch down.
Ander throws a leg kick but Ritch moved away.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ander is looking to clinch but Ritch is avoiding it.
Ritch throws an overhand right that lands on Ander's shoulder, as Ander tries to avoid the shot.
Ander wants to clinch.
Ander throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.
Ander thuds his shin into the meat of Ritch's side.
Ander takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Ander pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
A jab lands there for Ritch.
Ander lets loose with a powerful body kick. Ritch will feel that in the morning.
Ritch throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Ander throws a leg kick but Ritch checks it.
Ander throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Ander tries to clinch up but Ritch circles away and keeps his distance.
Ritch getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Ander is looking to clinch.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Ander shapes like he's going to throw a leg kick but settles back down.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ritch throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Ander misses with a kick to the body.
Ritch lands a two punch combo.
The fight stays on the outside here - Ander looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Ritch has a nice red mark on his side after a thudding body kick by Ander.
Ander connects with a leg kick. Ritch looked like he was expecting something else and didn't defend it.
A chopping leg kick lands by Ander.
Ander fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Ritch has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Ritch misses with a low kick.
Ritch just misses with a punch to the body.
Ander feints with a shoulder and throws a nice leg kick to Ritch's calf.
Ritch shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Ander but Ander pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Ritch is breathing heavily.
Ander walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Ritch throws a sloppy head kick and Ander moves out of range easily.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Ritch throws a right hand that Ander ducks under and follows up with a left that Ander also avoids with ease.
Ander finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Ander throws a wild body kick that Ritch sees coming a mile off.
Ander tries a head kick but it misses.
Ander tries to close the distance and clinch up but Ritch swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Ritch has developed a nice purple lump on his ribcage, as a result of some heavy body kicks from Ander.
A head kick misses from Ander.

Ander rushes Ritch and presses him up against the cage.
Ander misses with a knee strike.

Ritch breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Ritch scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Ritch with a jab.
Ander tries to close the distance and clinch up but Ritch swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Ander throws a front kick that sends Ritch stumbling back into the cage.
Ritch blocks the body kick.
Ritch throws a good cross that connects.
Ritch checks a low kick from Ander.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Ritch lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ander throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Ritch sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.
Ander lands a leg kick that knocks Ritch off balance momentarily.
Ander pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Ander throws out a leg kick but Ritch moves out of range and Ander only half commits.
Ritch fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Ander on the side of the head.
Ander tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Ritch paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Ritch lets the fists fly and connects with a left straight followed by a right hook.
Ander tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Ritch takes a head kick and shrugs it off.
Ander takes a push kick to the midsection and stumbles backwards.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Ritch cracks Ander with a right hand to the side of the head.
Ritch scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.

Ander is rocked!
Ander blocks a head kick by Ritch.
Oh Ander is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Ritch throws a head kick that misses.
Ander seems to have got his legs back now.
Ritch misses with a low kick.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Ollie Ritch will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!

Ritch tries a head kick but it misses.
Ander throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Ritch.
Ritch misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
A solid leg kick lands there for Ander.
Ritch avoids the head kick by Ander.
Ander takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Ritch plants his feet and lands a nice head kick!
Ander takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Ander connects with an inside leg kick.
Ritch tries to clinch up.
Ritch takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Ander moves out of range of the leg kick from Ritch.
Ritch keeps the fight on the outside.
Ander looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.

Ander moves into the clinch.
This has been an exciting period of action!

Ander pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Ander goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Ander pulls out of a head kick attempt.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ander looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Ritch lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Ander at a distance.
Ander throws a nice inside leg kick.
Ritch throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Ander.
Ritch takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Ritch blocks a head kick by Ander.
Ander moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Ander goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
Ritch lands with an overhand left.
Ander throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Ritch.
Ritch uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Ander has time to react.
A head kick misses from Ander.
Ander throws out a leg kick but Ritch moves out of range and Ander only half commits.
Ander tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Ander blocks a head kick by Ritch.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Ritch throws a body punch but Ander moves out of range.
Ritch throws a sloppy head kick and Ander moves out of range easily.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Ander steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Ritch.
Ander throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Ritch jabs away that one connects to the head of his opponent.
Ritch has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Ander.
Ander looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Ander throws a head kick that misses.
Ander wants to clinch up but Ritch keeps it at a distance.
Ander is looking to land body kicks.
Nice uppercut there from Ritch.
A head kick by Ander misses
and Ritch counters with a big head kick but Ander shrugs it off.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Ander.
Ritch cracks Ander with a nasty uppercut that draws ooohs from the crowd and sends Ander tumbling backwards onto the mat. He tries to recover but Ritch pounces and lands a hail of unanswered strikes that forces the referee to step in to end the fight! Ander is not happy but he gave the referee no choice!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:51 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ollie Ritch!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
100%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Kimbo Assis (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Vandal Gragas (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Assis's entrance music is Falling Slowly. A fine choice. Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Assis
vs
Gragas

186 cm
31
240 lbs
11 - 17 - 1

195 cm
27
265 lbs
7 - 6 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Solid boxing
Very strong

Good takedowns
Brawler
Determined

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 11 - 17 - 1, fighting out of Tokyo, Kimbo Assis!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 7 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Vandal Gragas!
The judges for this bout are Ren Mimura, Yuuki Gou and Yukihiro Shimada.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Assis closes the distance and pushes Gragas back into the cage.
Assis lands a nice knee to the body.
Gragas looking to slow down the pace here.

Assis breaks from the clinch.
Horrible takedown by Gragas or perhaps it was just good defense by Assis which made him look bad.

Assis pushes Gragas up against the cage in a clinch.

Assis decides to pull guard.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.

Gragas drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Gragas jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Assis not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Gragas should think about turning a few of those tyres round his middle into muscle if he wants people to take him seriously as an athlete.
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!

Gragas drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Gragas jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.

Gragas 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.

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

Gragas thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Assis has his feet on Gragas's hips. He pushes off and gets to his feet. Nice work.
Assis fails in his attempt to clinch.
Gragas looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.

Assis closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Assis lands a knee to the head.

It looks like Vandal Gragas has been cut.

Assis's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Gragas circles away from the clinch attempt.

Assis gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Gragas wants to stall.

Assis ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Assis no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard.
Gragas tries to free his leg and advance position but Assis is retaining full guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Gragas won't allow Assis to get back to his feet.
Gragas pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Assis is keeping the position for now.
Assis wants to stand but Gragas is controlling the position.
Gragas looking to pass the guard.
Assis wants to stand up but Gragas is controlling him.

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

Gragas 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.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Gragas 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.
Assis wants to stand and escape but Gragas is having none of it.
Gragas being controlled here momentarily.
Assis is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Assis is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.

Assis has his foot on Gragas's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Gragas works his way back into a safe position though.
Gragas is pushing down on Assis's leg trying to pass to half guard. Assis is fighting to maintain full guard but Gragas has managed to sneak the leg through.

Gragas is looking for a kimura but Assis is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Gragas to get the leverage.

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

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Gragas looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Gragas prevents Assis from standing back up.
Assis tries to roll over but Gragas keeps him under control.

Gragas is working for a kimura but Assis is defending it quite comfortably.

Gragas is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
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.
Assis is looking to improve his position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kimbo Assis dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Vandal Gragas'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.

Gragas dives in and grabs Assis's left leg, looking for a takedown. Assis pushes down on Gragas's head and hops out.

Gragas scores a takedown into full mount!

Gragas jumps to the side looking to secure the arm triangle…. Ooooh, that looks tight… Assis is gargling but he's managed to escape! Nice work there by Assis and Gragas has given up the dominant position trying to land that submission.
Gragas working away.

Gragas is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Assis is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.

Gragas looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Assis struggling a bit here.
Assis is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.
Assis is trying to get back to half guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Gragas is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Assis knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.

Gragas tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Gragas has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!

Gragas is trying to get an arm triangle but Assis is defending well.
Both fighters really going for it on the ground here!
Assis wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!

Gragas is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Assis is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.

Gragas working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Assis pushes Gragas away and creates a bit of space to escape. He's almost out here... but no, Gragas gets a good hold of his legs and remains firmly in side control.
Assis tries to get back to half guard but can't.

Gragas goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Assis has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Gragas but great work by Assis.
Vandal Gragas has got the better of the ground game so far.
Gragas gets back to half guard.

Gragas actively working from the bottom here.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nice strikes from Assis there.
Gragas is looking to improve his position.

Gragas actively working from the bottom here.
Assis tries to stand and escape but Gragas is controlling the position.
Assis prevents Gragas from improving his position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Assis drops an elbow to the side of Gragas's head.
Assis takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.

Gragas looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Gragas is breathing heavily.

Gragas looking for subs from the bottom but Assis mounts him!
Gragas is trying desperately to improve position.

Assis working for a guillotine from mount but Gragas is in no mood to give up.
Gragas regains half guard.

Gragas is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Assis pulls his head out easily.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!

Gragas actively working from the bottom here.
Assis is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
Gragas taking shots to the head.
Assis postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Gragas looks a forlorn figure.

Gragas is rocked!

The cut above Vandal Gragas's eye is starting to cause him problems now.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:42 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Kimbo Assis!
Kimbo Assis took to the mic after the fight and begged the organizational hierarchy for a shot at the title.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
56%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Yoshi Doi (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Frankie Russo (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Doi
vs
Russo

170 cm
26
155 lbs
7 - 7 - 0

169 cm
32
165 lbs
11 - 11 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Decent elbows
Experienced

Good wrestler
Decent boxing
Good gas tank

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the lightweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 7 - 7 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Yoshi Doi!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 11 - 11 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Frankie Russo!
The judges for this bout are Shigeki Fujiwara, Taro Takaoka and Sosuke Kotani.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Russo shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Doi pinned against the cage. Doi gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Russo falls off balance throwing a combination
and Doi counters with a leg kick.
Russo misses with the combination.
Doi throws a body punch but Russo moves out of range.
Russo shoots in looking for a takedown but Doi manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Russo's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
A head kick misses from Doi.

Doi clinches.
Kneeeeees! The crowd are calling for knees to the body. Doi obliges.

Doi pulls guard successfully.
Doi working a defensive guard here.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Russo chips away with some ground and pound.

Doi is active off his back here, looking for submissions.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Russo working some strikes from top position.
Russo postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Russo wants to control from the top but Doi keeps moving.
Russo lands a couple of digs.
Russo postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Russo scoring with some ground and pound.
Both fighters really going for it on the ground here!
Russo working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.

Doi working for submissions but it's allowed Russo to get to half guard.
Doi is looking for a sweep. Russo is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Russo has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.

Doi looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Russo takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Doi gets back to full guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!

Doi working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Russo doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Russo manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Doi is looking for a triangle here but Russo uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Russo trying to control the action but Doi is working from the bottom.
Russo scoring with punches from side control.

Russo is trying to get an arm triangle but Doi is defending well.
Doi is looking to reverse the position.
Doi struggling a bit here.
Doi takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Doi is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Russo off and has taken his back!
Russo rolls and manages to get back to half guard. Nicely done.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Russo is holding on to half guard well.

Doi is trying to work for a kimura but Russo is defending well.
Doi is looking to stall here but Russo recovers full guard.
Doi forces his way into half guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Doi is thwarting Russo's attempts to control the position.
Doi drops an elbow to the side of Russo's head.

Doi is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Russo defends it well.

Doi is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Russo sees it coming and defends easily.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Russo trying to control from the bottom.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Frankie Russo will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!

Doi just misses with a punch to the body.
Doi keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Thud! ouch! good body kick from Doi - that will leave a mark!
Doi throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Russo throws a right and a left that Doi avoids nicely.
Russo shoots in looking for a takedown. Doi tries to sprawl out of it but Russo keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Doi manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Russo shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Doi counters with a good low kick that Russo was not able to check.
Yoshi Doi has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Frankie Russo.
Russo throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Frankie Russo seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Russo slaps away a takedown attempt from Doi, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Doi throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Doi is trying hard to land a takedown here. Russo sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Russo rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Doi moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Doi throws a head kick that looked like it stung.

Russo tries to keep at a distance but Doi has taken the fight into the clinch.
Both guys are working to get underhooks.
Doi throws a head punch that misses.
Doi lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Russo wants a takedown but no success here.
Doi misses with an elbow strike.
Doi is defending well against a takedown attempt.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Russo avoids the elbow strike from Doi, against the cage.
Doi misses with a knee strike.
Doi is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Russo is defending well.
Doi taking a break, stalling in the clinch.
Russo avoids the elbow strike from Doi, against the cage.
Doi wants to take the fight to the mat but Russo manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
Doi lands a damaging elbow.
Doi misses with an elbow strike.
Russo managing to block the knees to the body from Doi.
Doi gets underhooks to prevent Russo's takedown attempt.
Doi lands with a light punch inside.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
A head punch on the inside from Doi fails to land.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Russo as Doi tries to tie him up.
Doi lands a nice elbow.
Russo can't get the takedown.
The pace slowing considerably in the clinch, as Doi takes a break from that fighting nonsense to think about the finer things in life.
Doi misses with a knee to the head.
Doi wants to get back to striking at distance but Russo won't allow it.
Doi comes over the top with an elbow. That landed flush.
Doi prevents the takedown attempt.
The referee is keeping an eye on Russo - much more stalling and he will separate the fighters.
Doi is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Russo is defending well for now.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Russo is looking to take this one to the mat.
Doi using the Thai clinch to land knees to the body.
Russo is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Doi is defending well.
Russo goes for a takedown attempt but Doi pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.

Doi bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Doi tries to get to his feet but he's trapped momentarily.
Doi 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.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.

Doi goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Russo has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Doi but great work by Russo.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Yoshi Doi dominated that second round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!

Doi throws a lazy uppercut
and Russo cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Doi lands a head kick. Russo smiles back at him and beckons him forward.

Doi has closed the distance and engaged Russo in a clinch.

Russo is working on a single leg takedown against the cage. Doi can't fight it off and eventually Russo manages to take the fight to the floor. Doi looks annoyed but at least he's managed to land in guard.

Doi working away from the bottom but not quite defensive enough there because Russo has passed into half guard!
Russo landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Russo lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Russo is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.

Doi is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Russo pulls his head out easily.
Doi is trying to control but can't.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Russo scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Doi trying to control here.
Russo lands with a punch from half guard.
Russo throwing shots but Doi is blocking nicely.
Russo slips a nice elbow through Doi's hands, connecting with Doi's forehead.
Russo looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Russo trying to control the action but Doi is working from the bottom.

Doi actively working from the bottom here.
Russo lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Doi makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Doi.
Russo trying to control the position from guard on top but Doi is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Doi is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.

Doi looking for a guillotine here but Russo defends easily.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Russo lands a couple of digs.
Russo throwing strikes but missing.
Russo landing some decent shots from guard.
Russo throwing strikes from guard but Doi blocks nicely.

Doi is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Russo is aware though and is defending well.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Russo advances to half guard.
Russo drops an elbow to the side of Doi's head.
Doi on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Russo passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Doi!
Doi is bucking up trying to escape but Russo cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
Russo in mount throwing good strikes here, bouncing his opponent's head off the canvas.

Doi is rocked!
Oooooh, big shot lands for Russo! Doi is hurt baaadly! Russo is firing away with more strikes - Doi is covering up... the ref is warning him to do something. He's just covering up though still and the ref has to step in to end the fight! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:52 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Frankie Russo!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
85%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Wszebor Swiatlovod (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Zbyszko Zbogdanca (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). This should be fireworks!

Swiatlovod
vs
Zbogdanca

178 cm
22
202 lbs
9 - 3 - 0

184 cm
30
205 lbs
7 - 4 - 1

Good wrestling
Brawler
Very quick

Good wrestler
Decent boxing
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the light heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 9 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Wszebor Swiatlovod!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 7 - 4 - 1, fighting out of Tokyo, Zbyszko Zbogdanca!
The judges for this bout are Yukihiro Yamamoto, Kenichi Hosakawa and Ren Mimura.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
A looping hook to the body misses from Zbogdanca. Swiatlovod does a little dance to reset his feet.
Swiatlovod with a jab.
Swiatlovod lands a nice hook to Zbogdanca's body. Zbogdanca takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Horrible takedown by Zbogdanca or perhaps it was just good defense by Swiatlovod which made him look bad.
Swiatlovod ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Zbogdanca moves away.

Swiatlovod gets a clinch.
Swiatlovod struggles to land a body shot inside as Zbogdanca controls his hands.
Zbogdanca tries to pull guard but Swiatlovod forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Zbogdanca tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Swiatlovod just stands there and leans against the cage.
Wszebor Swiatlovod has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Zbyszko Zbogdanca.
A head punch on the inside from Swiatlovod fails to land.
Swiatlovod slows down the pace here.
Swiatlovod misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Swiatlovod keeps control of Zbogdanca as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Swiatlovod tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Zbogdanca's elbow.
Swiatlovod tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Zbogdanca is trying to pull guard but Swiatlovod has him pressed against the cage.
Swiatlovod misses with some punches.
Swiatlovod leaning his opponent against the cage.
Swiatlovod presses Zbogdanca against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Swiatlovod misses with a hook to the ribs.
Zbogdanca is trying to pull guard but Swiatlovod has him pressed against the cage.
Zbogdanca tries to pull guard but Swiatlovod holds him up against the cage and eventually Zbogdanca drops back down to his feet.
Zbogdanca being controlled against the cage.
Zbogdanca tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Swiatlovod smiles and moves away.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Zbogdanca scores with a nice head shot.
Zbogdanca showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Swiatlovod.
Swiatlovod scores to the head and body with a nice combination!

It looks like Zbyszko Zbogdanca has been cut.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Zbogdanca.
Wszebor Swiatlovod seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.

Zbogdanca shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Oh and he's advanced to full mount straight away.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.

Zbogdanca looking to secure an arm triangle but Swiatlovod defends it well.

Zbogdanca swings around for an armbar but it's a sloppy attempt and Swiatlovod is now in Zbogdanca's guard. A big mistake from Zbogdanca there, giving up the dominant position!

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Swiatlovod is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Swiatlovod postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Swiatlovod postures up and lands a big shot to Zbogdanca's brow.

Zbogdanca looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Swiatlovod has picked Zbogdanca up and slammed him! Zbogdanca can't keep hold of the triangle and Swiatlovod manages to pass to side control!
Zbogdanca is looking to regain half guard here but Swiatlovod keeps moving and retains side control.
Swiatlovod misses with the ground and pound.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Zbogdanca tries to buck Swiatlovod off but Swiatlovod is having none of it.
Swiatlovod wants to take a breather but Zbogdanca manages to regain guard - a lesson learnt for Swiatlovod.
Swiatlovod makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Zbogdanca keeping moving, preventing Swiatlovod from controlling successfully.

Zbogdanca escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Swiatlovod gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Swiatlovod won't allow Zbogdanca to sweep him here.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Zbogdanca looking for a guillotine here but Swiatlovod defends easily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Wszebor Swiatlovod dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Zbyszko Zbogdanca's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!

Zbogdanca throws a right and a left that Swiatlovod avoids nicely.
Swiatlovod tries to clinch up.
Zbogdanca swats away the attempt to clinch by Swiatlovod.
Zbogdanca ducks under a wild hook from Swiatlovod.

Zbogdanca drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Swiatlovod regains half guard.
Swiatlovod is looking for a sweep. Zbogdanca is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Zbogdanca wants to pass to mount but Swiatlovod is defending the position.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Zbogdanca is working for a kimura but Swiatlovod is defending it quite comfortably.

Zbogdanca is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Zbogdanca has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Zbogdanca looking to secure an arm triangle but Swiatlovod defends it well.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Swiatlovod working to try and regain half guard.

Zbogdanca looking for a guillotine from mount but Swiatlovod is having none of it.

Zbogdanca has isolated one of Swiatlovod's arms. Swiatlovod looking to fight him off but Zbogdanca twists into an armbar. It's tight... Will he tap?? YES, he's tapped! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:50 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Zbyszko Zbogdanca!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
57%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Yusuke Nakamura (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Nicky Santoro (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Nakamura comes to the cage accompanied by Movado - Neva Believe U. Nicky Santoro 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!

Nakamura
vs
Santoro

173 cm
23
158 lbs
9 - 3 - 0

160 cm
21
150 lbs
11 - 2 - 0

Good wrestling
Solid boxing
Very quick

Good wrestler
Basic striking
Good gas tank

[CBK] LEGAL HIGHS « Fatality MMA ↑ 5x160Q

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 9 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Yusuke Nakamura!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 11 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Nicky Santoro!
The judges for this bout are Ren Mimura, Sosuke Kotani and Yukihiro Shimada.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Nakamura slips a jab from Santoro.

Santoro shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Nakamura napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Nakamura is trying to get back to half guard.
Nakamura manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Santoro missing with the ground and pound from half guard.

Nakamura looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Santoro is thwarting Nakamura's attempts to control the position.
Santoro slows the pace down in half guard.
Santoro looks to land a strike but Nakamura avoids it nicely and regains full guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Santoro throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Nakamura works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Santoro trying to control the position from guard on top but Nakamura is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Santoro throwing strikes but missing.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Santoro tries to free his leg and advance position but Nakamura is retaining full guard.
Santoro works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Santoro lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Santoro prevents Nakamura from improving his position.
Well, if Santoro is going to just lie there, perhaps we should talk about what we're having for dinner tonight… I'm having a ham and pineapple pizza… Yum. Can't wait.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Nakamura wants to get back to his feet.
Santoro is looking to take a break and control but Nakamura is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Santoro working Nakamura over with strikes.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Santoro lands a nice short elbow.
Santoro looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
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!
Santoro seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Nakamura does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Nakamura throws a strike from the bottom that misses.
Nakamura tries to roll over but Santoro keeps him under control.

Santoro is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Nakamura doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Santoro.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Nakamura tries to roll over but Santoro keeps him under control.
Santoro working Nakamura over with strikes.
Santoro passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Nakamura!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Santoro looking to finish Nakamura with some ground and pound. This is bad for Nakamura!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Nakamura is desperately trying to improve his position but Santoro has a good base and remains in mount.
Nakamura taking shots to the head.
Santoro landing strikes from the mount.
Santoro wants to control the pace but Nakamura is squirming around nicely.
Santoro landing strikes from the mount and Nakamura is in trouble!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nakamura in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
Santoro lands a big shot there that rocks Nakamura but he's holding on and managing to survive for now.
Nakamura tries to reverse the position but Santoro maintains control.
Santoro has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Nakamura throwing hammer fists to the chest of Santoro. What's that going to do exactly?
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Santoro working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Santoro wants to control the pace but Nakamura is squirming around nicely.
Santoro punishing his opponent with strikes.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Nicky Santoro dominated that round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action.

Santoro looks to land a left hand but Nakamura moved out of range nicely.
Santoro throws a jab but it's blocked by Nakamura.
Nakamura misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Nice jab there from Santoro.
Nakamura shoots in for a takedown but Santoro shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Santoro lands a jab to Nakamura's midsection.
Santoro just misses with a punch to the body.
Santoro tried to score with a low kick but Nakamura checks it.
Santoro scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Nakamura doesn't seem bothered though.
Nakamura misses with a double jab.
Santoro fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Nakamura manages to avoid it.
Santoro just misses with a punch to the body.
Santoro throws a nice looking combination but Nakamura bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Santoro scores with a crisp jab that stopped Nakamura in his tracks.
Nakamura shoots in but Santoro avoids the takedown attempt easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Yusuke Nakamura. That's going to take a lot out of him.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Santoro dodges the punch combination from Nakamura.
Santoro scores with a crisp jab that stopped Nakamura in his tracks.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Nakamura.
Nakamura shoots in but no luck this time.

Santoro decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
Ground and pound from Santoro.
Still in half guard, Santoro seems content to control.
Ground and pound from Santoro.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Santoro controlling the action here.
Nakamura on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Nicky Santoro has got the better of the ground game so far.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Santoro working over Nakamura with some ground and pound. Nakamura looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Nakamura is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Nakamura is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Santoro's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Santoro's back!
Santoro wants to get back to his feet.
Santoro tries to roll but Nakamura sticks to his back.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Nakamura somehow managing to miss with a strike from the back.
Nakamura doesn't have the hooks in and Santoro manages to turn into his guard.
Santoro trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Santoro wants to control from the top but Nakamura keeps moving.
Santoro's corner is telling him to maintain position.
Santoro trying to control the position from guard on top but Nakamura is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Santoro controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Santoro wants to control from the top but Nakamura keeps moving.

The ref stands the fighters back up, due to lack of action by Nicky Santoro.
Santoro stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Santoro wants it to stay on the feet.
Santoro has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Nakamura will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Nakamura stuffs the takedown.
Santoro fails to land the takedown.
Nakamura changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Santoro tries to avoid it but Nakamura manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Santoro to the ground. Santoro escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Santoro fails with a takedown attempt.
Nakamura takes a shot to the body in his stride.

Nakamura shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Santoro is trying to defend but Nakamura finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
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!
Santoro is staying active underneath Nakamura, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Nakamura is thwarting Santoro's attempts to control the position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Nicky Santoro showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Nakamura's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!

Santoro shoots in looking for a takedown but Nakamura manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Santoro's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
No luck for Santoro with that takedown attempt.
Yusuke Nakamura is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Nice takedown defense from Nakamura. No joy for Santoro on that attempt.
Yusuke Nakamura has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Nicky Santoro.
Santoro tries to score with a low kick but Nakamura moves his leg out of the way.
Santoro stuffs the takedown.
Santoro shoots in looking for a takedown but Nakamura manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Santoro's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Nakamura throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Santoro throws a left and a right that both miss
and Nakamura counters with a nice leg kick.
Nakamura shoots in for a double leg but Santoro sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Nakamura shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Santoro as he avoids it easily.
Nakamura lands with a cross.
Santoro slips under a jab from Nakamura.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Nakamura gets a double leg takedown into Santoro's guard.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Santoro wants to sweep here but Nakamura controlling him for the moment.
Santoro lands a beautiful switch and he's in full mount! That could spell trouble for Nakamura!
Santoro takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Nakamura is trying to escape but when you're mounted that's not too easy.
Santoro controlling the position easily from mount.
Santoro can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Nakamura is looking to escape.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Santoro dominating with strikes here.
Nakamura holds on to Santoro around his waist, trying desperately to prevent any attacks.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Santoro content just to control the position here.
Santoro looking to control but Nakamura is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Santoro breaks from Nakamura's wrist control and lands an elbow.
Santoro landing strikes from the mount and Nakamura is in trouble!
Nakamura is desperately trying to improve his position but Santoro has a good base and remains in mount.
Santoro fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
Santoro controlling from the full mount.
Santoro tries to control but Nakamura wriggling away.
Nakamura wants to hold on but Santoro pushes him away.
Santoro is still in mount, landing shots to his trapped opponent. Nakamura can't stay in a position like this for much longer.
Yusuke Nakamura has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
BOOM! Santoro connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Santoro looking to control but Nakamura is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Santoro sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.
Nakamura takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
Santoro can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Nakamura is looking to escape.
Santoro working away from the top, dropping strikes.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Santoro working for a guillotine from mount but Nakamura is in no mood to give up.

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

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

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Nicky Santoro!
Nicky Santoro managed to slip a mention for his sponsors, [CBK] LEGAL HIGHS « Fatality MMA ↑ 5x160Q, into his post fight interview.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
78%

Main event

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Mason Watson (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jacob Donovan (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Watson comes into the arena with How Much For One Rib? blaring out of the sound system. Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Watson
vs
Donovan

185 cm
25
240 lbs
12 - 5 - 0

202 cm
31
289 lbs
15 - 11 - 0

Abu Dhabi Champ
World class boxer
Insanely flexible

Good wrestler
World class boxer
Good gas tank

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the heavyweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 12 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Mason Watson!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 15 - 11 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Jacob Donovan!
The judges for this bout are Ren Mimura, Yukihiro Yamamoto and Yuuki Gou.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Watson displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Donovan throws out the jab.
Donovan throws a hook but Watson avoids it easily.
Donovan misses with a telegraphed body shot

and Watson counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Watson.
Watson throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Donovan works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Watson with a flurry of punches that miss.
Donovan keeping moving, preventing Watson from controlling successfully.
Watson tries to free his leg and advance position but Donovan is retaining full guard.

Watson has gone for a leg lock! Donovan slips out almost immediately though and dives into Watson's guard.

Watson is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Donovan defends well.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!

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

That's one minute gone in the round.

Watson escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Donovan gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.

Donovan stands up from guard. Let's bang!
Donovan on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Donovan fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Donovan throws a lazy uppercut
and Watson makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.

Watson scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
This has been an exciting period of action!

Watson has hold of Donovan's arm here. He's working for an Americana. It looks like he might have it! Donovan tries to escape but he's just digging himself in deeper - Watson cranks the arm and Donovan screams in pain! The ref makes a decision and ends the fight before the tap - no complains from Donovan, who is just happy to have his arm attached to his body.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Mason Watson!
Mason Watson retains his heavyweight title!
Our winner, Mason Watson, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.