EFC 16: Gabriel vs Mladenov PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Edson Garcia (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Tom Hammer (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Tom Hammer has the power to score a knockout today if he connects clean with Edson Garcia's chin.

Garcia
vs
Hammer

170 cm
30
142 lbs
18 - 14 - 0

165 cm
28
154 lbs
6 - 2 - 0

Decent wrestler
Brawler
Good chin

Powerful takedowns
Basic striking
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 18 - 14 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Edson Garcia!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 6 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Tom Hammer!
The judges for this bout are Paulsen Ambrosius, Radbod Blank and Paul Aken.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Garcia looking to score a takedown here. Hammer is defending well but Garcia drives through and ends up in Hammer's guard.
Garcia loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Garcia tries to free his leg and advance position but Hammer is retaining full guard.

Hammer isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Garcia stacks Hammer on his neck as he steps over and passes to the side. He's now in a much more dominant position where he can look to do some serious damage. Nice move by Garcia!
Hammer is trying to control Garcia's posture but Garcia avoids it.
Garcia wants to control but Hammer is keeping him busy.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Garcia working away.
Hammer is trying to improve his position.
Hammer gets back to half guard.
Hammer is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Garcia's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Garcia's back!

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Hammer is remaining active here, looking for the choke. The more discerning members of the crowd will appreciate his efforts.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.

Garcia fending off the submission attempt from Hammer.
Garcia rolls, trying to escape but Hammer keeps control of the position.
Garcia trying to control the action but Hammer just sinks the hooks in.
Hammer throwing lazy shots from the back mount that aren't doing any damage.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Hammer has got one arm under Garcia's chin. This could be trouble... Garcia trying to control the other hand but Hammer gets it free and sqeezes tight - just a matter of time now! Yep, Garcia has tapped out! The fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Tom Hammer!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
46%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Rafael Almeida (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Ronaldo Abreu (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Man, I cannot wait for this one!

Almeida
vs
Abreu

191 cm
30
195 lbs
11 - 10 - 0

191 cm
20
211 lbs
9 - 2 - 0

Good takedowns
Solid Muay Thai
Experienced

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the light heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 11 - 10 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Rafael Almeida!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 9 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Ronaldo Abreu!
The judges for this bout are Paulsen Ambrosius, Wagner Zegers and Patrick Alders.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Abreu misses with an uppercut
and Almeida counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.

Abreu closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Abreu lands in his opponent's guard.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.
Almeida wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Abreu wants to pass the guard but Almeida is keeping the position.
Almeida keeping moving, preventing Abreu from controlling successfully.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Abreu pushing down on Almeida's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Abreu trying to control from half guard but Almeida is working away.

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

Abreu is working for a kimura from half guard. He's really concentrating on the hold and it's allowed Almeida to slip a leg under and get back to full guard.
Abreu tries to free his leg and advance position but Almeida is retaining full guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Almeida is controlling Abreu's posture.
Abreu looking to sit in guard and control but Almeida gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.

Abreu looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Almeida passes into half guard.
Almeida wants to stand but Abreu 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 three minutes gone in the round.

Almeida stands up from half guard... He's had enough of that ground malarky for the time being.
Rafael Almeida seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Abreu shoots and misses
and Almeida counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Abreu thinking.
Almeida fails in his attempt to clinch.
Almeida lets the fists fly and connects with a left straight followed by a right hook.

It looks like Ronaldo Abreu has been cut.

Almeida takes the fight into the clinch.

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

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Abreu shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Almeida counters with a lovely straight right hand!

Almeida gets a clinch.
The pace really dropping off here, momentarily.
Abreu tries to pull guard but Almeida forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Rafael Almeida has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ronaldo Abreu.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.

Almeida's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Rafael Almeida dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ronaldo Abreu's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!

A punch combination from Almeida misses.
Abreu tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Almeida swivels and escapes.
Abreu with a poor takedown
and Almeida counters with an inside leg kick.
Almeida throws a sloppy head kick and Abreu moves out of range easily.
Almeida throws a combination that misses
and Abreu connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Almeida tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Abreu manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
A combination from Almeida does no damage.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Abreu misses with a hook. Almeida ducked under it nicely.
Almeida tries to clinch there but Abreu circles away.
Abreu shoots and misses
and Almeida counters with a body kick that stops Abreu in his tracks momentarily.
Rafael Almeida has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ronaldo Abreu.
Abreu misses with a wild body shot.
Abreu dodges the punch combination from Almeida.
Almeida throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Almeida gets a clinch.
Kneeeeees! The crowd are calling for knees to the body. Almeida obliges.
Almeida tries to throw a body punch but Abreu avoids it by throwing Almeida back against the cage.

Almeida breaks the clinch.

Almeida clinches with his opponent.

Almeida pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Abreu has his takedown stuffed
and Almeida counters with a left and a right that stings Abreu.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Almeida scores with a nice one two combo and darts back out of range to avoid anything coming in the opposite direction.
Almeida misses with a series of wild punches.
Abreu showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Almeida.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
Almeida swings wildly with a couple of big hooks

and Abreu counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Almeida keeping moving, preventing Abreu from controlling successfully.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Abreu is stalling in the full guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Almeida is adopting a defensive guard.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.

It looks like we're going to have a standup here. Neither fighter is doing enough on the ground.
Almeida misses with a double jab.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Rafael Almeida dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Ronaldo Abreu's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!

Almeida throws a nice looking combination but Abreu bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Almeida pushes forward with a 1-2 combination that forces Abreu back to the cage. Almeida follows up with a solid lead hook to the liver.
Abreu misses with a takedown
and Almeida makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Rafael Almeida is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
An inside leg kick lands from Almeida.
A nice inside leg kick there by Almeida. That's going to slow Abreu down.
Almeida tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Almeida throws a looping overhand right but Abreu ducks down to avoid it.
Almeida throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Abreu.
Abreu shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Almeida counters with a nice low kick that buckles Abreu's knee momentarily.
Abreu shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Almeida counters with a one-two to the body.
Rafael Almeida has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ronaldo Abreu.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Almeida tries to close the distance and clinch but Abreu swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Almeida throws a series of strikes that have Abreu backpedaling.

Almeida gets in close and instigates a clinch.
It really doesn't seem like the step up in weight is hurting Almeida here at all. He's more than holding his own against the bigger man.

Almeida breaks the clinch.
Abreu checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Almeida throws a series of punches but Abreu avoids them all with ease.
Abreu checks a low kick from Almeida.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Almeida misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Abreu misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.

Almeida rushes Abreu and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Abreu wants a takedown.

Almeida manages to break the clinch.

Almeida darts in and clinches Abreu up against the cage.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Almeida manages to break the clinch.
Abreu shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Almeida as he avoids it easily.
Good leg kick by Almeida there. It's the ones that make that thud noise that hurt and that was an almighty thud.
Abreu shoots and misses
and Almeida counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Almeida tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Abreu paws at him with a jab and circles away.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Almeida fails with an attempt to clinch.

And that's the end of the fight!
Rafael Almeida showed his dominance in that final round.
Well I reckon that's a shut out for Almeida, winning every round. Will the judges agree? They are the ones who matter, even if they are often depressingly incompetent. 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 Paulsen Ambrosius scores the fight 30:27
Judge Wagner Zegers scores the fight 30:27
Judge Patrick Alders scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Rafael Almeida!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
27%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Nikola Veljanovski (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Pekka Arhinmaki (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Pekka Arhinmaki has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Veljanovski
vs
Arhinmaki

182 cm
26
222 lbs
19 - 9 - 0

188 cm
25
210 lbs
0 - 2 - 0

Good wrestling
Basic striking
Experienced

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the light heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 19 - 9 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Nikola Veljanovski!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Pekka Arhinmaki!
The judges for this bout are Nard Betker, Wagner Zegers and Saam Ante.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Arhinmaki takes one to the chin there.

Veljanovski gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Veljanovski lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.

Veljanovski manages to break the clinch.

Veljanovski shoots in and bounces Arhinmaki off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
Arhinmaki trying to control the position here.
Arhinmaki can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Veljanovski controls the pace.
Arhinmaki wants to sweep but no luck.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Arhinmaki looking for a guillotine here but Veljanovski defends easily.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Arhinmaki is looking for a triangle but Veljanovski pushes his legs off easily.

Arhinmaki is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Veljanovski defends well.

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

Arhinmaki looking for a guillotine here but Veljanovski defends easily.
Veljanovski trying to control but Arhinmaki is working from the bottom.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Arhinmaki looking for subs off his back but Veljanovski has passed one foot through into half guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Veljanovski winds up and cracks Arhinmaki with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Arhinmaki on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Veljanovski knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Arhinmaki on the ground.
Veljanovski thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Veljanovski wants to control but Arhinmaki is keeping him busy.
Veljanovski working Arhinmaki over with strikes.
Veljanovski trying to control from half guard but Arhinmaki is working away.

Arhinmaki looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Arhinmaki looks winded!
Arhinmaki avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Veljanovski.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Veljanovski lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Veljanovski lands a nice short elbow.
Veljanovski lands strikes from half guard.
Veljanovski working Arhinmaki over with strikes.

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

Veljanovski is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.

Arhinmaki looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Arhinmaki keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Arhinmaki is trying to stand up here but Veljanovski is controlling him well.
Veljanovski working over Arhinmaki with some ground and pound. Arhinmaki looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Arhinmaki on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Veljanovski works his way into side control.

Veljanovski working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
Arhinmaki takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!

Veljanovski is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Arhinmaki has escaped the position, nice work there.
Arhinmaki defending against the ground and pound.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Nikola Veljanovski dominated that round.
That's time! Veljanovski's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.

Veljanovski moves into the clinch.
Arhinmaki has Veljanovski pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Veljanovski manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Veljanovski working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Veljanovski lands a hook to the side of the head.
Veljanovski lands a shoulder strike.
Arhinmaki is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.

Veljanovski manages to break the clinch.
Veljanovski displaying good standup as he scores with a three punch combination.

Veljanovski shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Veljanovski is looking to work some ground and pound but Arhinmaki has wrist control.
Veljanovski pushes down on Arhinmaki's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Veljanovski not landing any meaningful shots this time.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Veljanovski is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Arhinmaki is just riding it out for now. Veljanovski eventually gives up the hold.
Arhinmaki is not content to let Veljanovski control the position.

Veljanovski is trying to work for a kimura but Arhinmaki is defending well.
Arhinmaki gets full guard.
Veljanovski wants to control from the top but Arhinmaki keeps moving.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Veljanovski avoids a guillotine attempt easily.

Arhinmaki is looking for a triangle here but Veljanovski uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Arhinmaki is breathing heavily.
Veljanovski wants to lay and pray for a moment but Arhinmaki keeps working.
Veljanovski lands a decent elbow from side control.
Arhinmaki taking punishment in the form of punches.
Arhinmaki manages to work his way to half guard, despite Veljanovski's best efforts.
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!
Neither fighter is being very active at the moment, with Veljanovski in particular looking to stall.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Arhinmaki looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Arhinmaki is not content to let Veljanovski control the position.
Arhinmaki gets back to full guard.
Veljanovski wants to get up but he can't break Arhinmaki's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.
Arhinmaki wants to sweep here but Veljanovski controlling him for the moment.
Veljanovski stands up out of Arhinmaki's guard for a moment - Arhinmaki manages to land a nice upkick.
Veljanovski has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Veljanovski trying to control but Arhinmaki is working from the bottom.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Arhinmaki has a closed guard, preventing Veljanovski from standing up.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Arhinmaki trying to control the position.
Veljanovski wants to control from the top but Arhinmaki keeps moving.

The ref stands the fighters back up. Nikola Veljanovski wasn't doing enough on the ground.
Veljanovski moves in looking to clinch but Arhinmaki pushes him off.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Veljanovski drives through with a takedown into guard.
Veljanovski throwing strikes but missing.
Veljanovski slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Nikola Veljanovski dominated that second round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!

Veljanovski gets a takedown into half guard.

Arhinmaki looking to force a kimura from the bottom here. He's concentrating on that move too much though and Veljanovski pushes past his half guard into mount!
Arhinmaki tries to reverse the position but Veljanovski maintains control.
Veljanovski scores with a couple of good head shots there.
Veljanovski tries to control but Arhinmaki wriggling away.
Veljanovski lands a couple of good shots and Arhinmaki has given up his back, trying to 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!
Veljanovski lands an elbow to the side of the head.
Arhinmaki takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Veljanovski is punishing Arhinmaki with strikes - can he finish him?!

That's one minute gone in the round.
Can Arhinmaki hold on?! Veljanovski is landing more strikes to his hapless foe.
Veljanovski punches Arhinmaki on the ear.

Veljanovski is remaining active here, looking for the choke. The more discerning members of the crowd will appreciate his efforts.
Arhinmaki just trying to survive but Veljanovski is wriggling into a better position, looking to finish.
Veljanovski softening up his opponent with strikes here.

Arhinmaki showing good submission defense here.
Veljanovski struggling to keep hold of the position.
Veljanovski is landing with strikes from the back.

Veljanovski looking for the RNC.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
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!
Veljanovski is looking cool and calm here, just waiting for a good opportunity to attack and finish the fight from this dominant position.
Arhinmaki tries to roll but Veljanovski sticks to his back.
Veljanovski landing with strikes.
Arhinmaki can't escape the position.
Veljanovski gets his hands free as Arhinmaki looks to control.
Veljanovski lands an elbow to the side of the head.
Veljanovski is punishing Arhinmaki with some ground and pound.

Veljanovski tightening his grip on Arhinmaki, looking for the choke.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Arhinmaki trying to control the action but Veljanovski just sinks the hooks in.

Veljanovski is working for the rear naked choke. He has one arm under the chin but Arhinmaki has hold of the other arm. A bit of a stalemate here.
Veljanovski is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Arhinmaki can do to turn this around?
Veljanovski lands a punch that was close to the back of the head but the ref thinks it's OK.
Veljanovski is punishing Arhinmaki with some ground and pound.
Arhinmaki is really stuck here.
Veljanovski trying to control.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Veljanovski scores with punches to the body.
Arhinmaki grimaces as he takes a shot to the body.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Arhinmaki trying to control the hands but Veljanovski won't let him.
Veljanovski is trying to stick to Arhinmaki's back but Arhinmaki is turning into Veljanovski. He's managed to reverse the position - now he's in Veljanovski's guard. Polite applause from the crowd in appreciation of some nice Jiu Jitsu by Arhinmaki.
Veljanovski is trying to control the position but Arhinmaki postures up.
Arhinmaki stops Veljanovski from standing up.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Arhinmaki stopping the sweep attempt from Veljanovski.
Veljanovski working a defensive guard here.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Nard Betker scores the fight 30:27
Judge Wagner Zegers scores the fight 30:27
Judge Saam Ante scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Nikola Veljanovski!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
77%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Robin Verhoeven (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jaakko Iloliemi (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The atmosphere really building for this one as we go over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Verhoeven
vs
Iloliemi

195 cm
25
240 lbs
4 - 1 - 0

185 cm
26
250 lbs
11 - 5 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Solid Muay Thai
Likes comics

Good wrestler
Basic striking
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 4 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Amsterdam, Robin Verhoeven!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 11 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Jaakko Iloliemi!
The judges for this bout are Daniel Blasius, Paulsen Ambrosius and Nard Betker.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Iloliemi shoots in but Verhoeven avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Nice sprawl there from Iloliemi as Verhoeven shoots in.
Verhoeven changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Iloliemi tries to avoid it but Verhoeven manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Iloliemi to the ground. Iloliemi escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Iloliemi shoots in looking for a takedown. Verhoeven tries to sprawl out of it but Iloliemi keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Verhoeven manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Verhoeven looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Robin Verhoeven. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Iloliemi throws a jab when Verhoeven was well out of range.
Verhoeven slips under a jab.
Verhoeven walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Verhoeven fails in his attempt to clinch.

Iloliemi scores with a takedown into Verhoeven's guard.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.

Verhoeven isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Iloliemi stacks Verhoeven on his neck as he steps over and passes to the side. He's now in a much more dominant position where he can look to do some serious damage. Nice move by Iloliemi!
Verhoeven wants to control but Iloliemi postures up.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Verhoeven is looking to regain half guard here but Iloliemi keeps moving and retains side control.
Iloliemi connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Verhoeven some visible discomfort.
Verhoeven being controlled for a moment.
Verhoeven is not content to let Iloliemi control the position.
Verhoeven is looking for a sweep.
Verhoeven is trying to work for a sweep but Iloliemi has mounted him!
Verhoeven wants to control but Iloliemi is having none of it.
Iloliemi breaks from Verhoeven's wrist control and lands an elbow.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Verhoeven is flailing around, obviously not happy about being mounted. Iloliemi locks hold of one of his arms and spins for an armbar. He's got it! Verhoeven is forced to tap!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:25 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Jaakko Iloliemi!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
46%

Co-main event

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

Hovimaki
vs
Demarce

178 cm
24
163 lbs
12 - 5 - 0

183 cm
26
162 lbs
8 - 4 - 0

Good wrestling
Solid boxing
Experienced

Good takedowns
Brawler
Solid chin

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 12 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Mikko Hovimaki!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 8 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Montreal, Kyle Demarce!
The judges for this bout are Paul Aken, Daniel Blasius and Nard Betker.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Demarce looks for the body kick but Hovimaki saw that one coming.
Demarce tries to clinch but fails miserably
enabling Hovimaki to counter with a crisp jab.
Demarce throws a sloppy head kick and Hovimaki moves out of range easily.
Hovimaki lands a glancing blow to the side of Demarce's head.
Demarce throws a lazy uppercut
enabling Hovimaki to counter with a crisp jab.
Demarce throws a leg kick but Hovimaki moved away.
Demarce fails with the takedown
and Hovimaki cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.

It looks like Kyle Demarce has been cut.
Demarce misses with a takedown attempt - Hovimaki sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.

Demarce scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Demarce seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Hovimaki does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Demarce throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Hovimaki won't allow Demarce to pass to mount.
Hovimaki on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Hovimaki tries to get out of the position.
Demarce wants to stand but Hovimaki has hold of a leg and an arm, so he's trapped for now.
Demarce missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Demarce stalling away here and it's allowed Hovimaki to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
Hovimaki keeping moving, preventing Demarce from controlling successfully.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

The ref stands the fighters back up, due to lack of action by Kyle Demarce.
Demarce dives in and grabs Hovimaki's left leg, looking for a takedown. Hovimaki pushes down on Demarce's head and hops out.
Mikko Hovimaki has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Kyle Demarce.
Demarce misses with a wild body shot.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Demarce is defended easily by Hovimaki.
Demarce misses with a wild combination.
Demarce fails with the takedown.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Demarce throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Demarce fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Demarce with a lazy takedown attempt
and Hovimaki counters with a nice uppercut.
Hovimaki avoids the body shot from Demarce.
Demarce shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Hovimaki as he jumps to the side.
Demarce looks winded!
Hovimaki stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Hovimaki wants it to stay on the feet.
Demarce does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Horrible takedown by Demarce or perhaps it was just good defense by Hovimaki which made him look bad.
Hovimaki moves into range and connects with a jab.
Demarce closes the distance but Hovimaki moves to the side
and Hovimaki counters with a stiff right hand.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Demarce is defended easily by Hovimaki.
Demarce throws a lazy right hand but Hovimaki sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Nice takedown defense from Hovimaki. No joy for Demarce on that attempt.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Hovimaki scores with a crisp jab that stopped Demarce in his tracks.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Kyle Demarce will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Kyle Demarce's cut.
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.

Demarce wants to clinch
and Hovimaki cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Demarce is looking to clinch but Hovimaki is avoiding it.
Hovimaki blocks a head kick by Demarce.
Demarce moves away from the strike by Hovimaki.
Demarce misses with a takedown attempt
letting Hovimaki counter with a right hand.
Demarce shoots in looking for a takedown but Hovimaki manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Demarce's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Hovimaki lands with a cross.
Demarce looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Mikko Hovimaki has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Kyle Demarce.
Sloppy strikes from Demarce. Those never looked like landing.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hovimaki listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Demarce doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Demarce wants to clinch but Hovimaki slips to the side
and Hovimaki counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Hovimaki misses with a hook. Demarce ducked under it nicely.
A punch lands to the side of Demarce 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Demarce takes one to the chin there.
Demarce fails to land the takedown.
Hovimaki scores with a jab. Demarce acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Mikko Hovimaki is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Demarce throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Hovimaki counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Demarce closes the distance but Hovimaki moves to the side
and Hovimaki connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Demarce changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Hovimaki tries to avoid it but Demarce manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Hovimaki to the ground. Hovimaki escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Demarce is breathing heavily.
Demarce throws a left and a right that both miss
and Hovimaki counters with a straight right hand.
Demarce shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Hovimaki counters with a nice body shot.
Hovimaki keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Kyle Demarce is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Hovimaki circles away from the clinch attempt
and Hovimaki cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Mikko Hovimaki is winning the standup battle so far.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
A jab lands there for Hovimaki.
Demarce has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Hovimaki finds it's way round the side to connect with Demarce's head.
Hovimaki scores with a jab. Demarce acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Demarce tries to move into range but Hovimaki moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.

Demarce is rocked!
Demarce has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
A jab from Hovimaki finds it's way through Demarce's defenses.
Demarce fails with a takedown attempt.
Horrible takedown by Demarce or perhaps it was just good defense by Hovimaki which made him look bad.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Demarce tries for a takedown but Hovimaki circles away easily
and Demarce takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Hovimaki lands with a good body shot.
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!
Hovimaki with a hook.
Hovimaki scores with the left hand. Demarce knows he should have avoided that one.
Demarce misses with a body kick.
Demarce misses with a body shot
and Hovimaki cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Hovimaki scores with a hook.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Demarce shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Hovimaki defends it nicely.
Demarce doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Demarce takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Mikko Hovimaki dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Kyle Demarce's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! This is the final round!

Hovimaki dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Demarce shoots for a takedown but Hovimaki saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Demarce shoots in for a takedown but Hovimaki shows good takedown defense.
Demarce throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
letting Hovimaki counter with a right hand.
Demarce tries to clinch but Hovimaki moves away
and Hovimaki counters with a nice body shot.
Hovimaki lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Demarce at a distance.
Hovimaki is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Hovimaki moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Demarce is still on wobbly legs! Can Hovimaki finish him?
Demarce has his takedown stuffed
and Hovimaki counters with a right hand to the body.
Demarce seems to have recovered his senses.
Mikko Hovimaki has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Kyle Demarce.
Demarce takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nice cross by Hovimaki.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Jab, jab by Hovimaki - just one landing.
Hovimaki connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Demarce's hands.
Hovimaki lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Demarce with a poor takedown

and Hovimaki counters with a nice right hand that sends Demarce toppling to the canvas! Demarce scrambles and gets back to his feet - can Hovimaki finish him?!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Hovimaki weaves into range and cracks Demarce right on the temple with a beautiful overhand right! Demarce goes down! He's out cold! Wow, what a beautiful knockout! Hovimaki is strutting round the canvas like a movie star as the camera bulbs flash frantically.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:34 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Mikko Hovimaki!
A very excited looking Mikko Hovimaki rambled incoherently for about 5 minutes post fight about how awesome he is. It was kinda funny for a while but then everyone got annoyed.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
100%

Main event

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Jacques Gabriel (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Blagoi Mladenov (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Both these guys have really solid chins. Will we see a standup war or will they both decide that a knockout is unlikely and try to win the fight elsewhere?

Gabriel
vs
Mladenov

182 cm
29
200 lbs
19 - 8 - 0

184 cm
25
192 lbs
9 - 1 - 0

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
Granite chin

Good wrestler
Counter fighter
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the middleweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 19 - 8 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Jacques Gabriel!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 9 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Amsterdam, Blagoi Mladenov!
The judges for this bout are Paul Aken, Nard Betker and Daniel Blasius.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Gabriel shoots in for a double leg but Mladenov sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.

Gabriel is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Mladenov's half guard.
Mladenov has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Gabriel is working away from the top position though.
Mladenov is trying to get back to full guard.
Gabriel is pressing down on Mladenov's thigh, looking to free his foot. Mladenov is holding on for now.
Gabriel is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Mladenov trying to control here.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Mladenov tries to get to full guard but Gabriel has control of the leg.
Mladenov wants to get back to full guard but Gabriel has passed into side control.

Gabriel wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Mladenov, who protects the arm well.
Mladenov is looking to regain half guard here but Gabriel keeps moving and retains side control.

Gabriel is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Mladenov knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Mladenov is trying to get back to his feet.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Mladenov prevents Gabriel from moving into mount.
Mladenov tries to improve position but can't.
Gabriel lands a few punches from side control.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Mladenov can do anything to dispel that myth.
Mladenov regains half guard.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Mladenov trying to control but Gabriel postures up.
Gabriel stops Mladenov from getting back to his feet.
Gabriel throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Mladenov lands one or two decent shots to the body here. Although from his own half guard, he's not going to be causing too much damage.
This has been an exciting period of action!

Mladenov looking for submissions off his back.

Gabriel is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.

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

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Gabriel throws a big elbow that misses, also allowing Mladenov to regain full guard.
Gabriel stays in close to Mladenov's body and controls the position.
Mladenov looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Gabriel puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard.
Gabriel passes to side control.

Gabriel is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Mladenov is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Gabriel works to advance to full mount. Mladenov defends for a few seconds but eventually he succumbs.
Gabriel throwing strikes but Mladenov uses the opportunity to regain half guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Mladenov tries to strike from the bottom but it doesn't land.
Neither fighter is being very active at the moment, with Gabriel in particular looking to stall.
Mladenov wants to get back to full guard.
Mladenov looks like he's trying to stand up.
Mladenov manages to get to full guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Gabriel chips away with some ground and pound.
Gabriel passes Mladenov's left leg - he's now in half guard.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Gabriel is working for a submission of some sort.
Mladenov wants to control but Gabriel is keeping busy and won't allow it.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jacques Gabriel dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!

Mladenov scores with a takedown into Gabriel's guard.
Mladenov must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Mladenov trying to control but Gabriel is working from the bottom.
Gabriel preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.

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

Mladenov got a little sloppy there for a moment and Gabriel has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Mladenov has managed to get both his arms back between Gabriel's legs - danger averted.
Mladenov connects with a couple of short punches.
Mladenov throwing strikes from guard but Gabriel blocks nicely.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Gabriel is on top in guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Mladenov has his foot on Gabriel's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Gabriel works his way back into a safe position though.
Gabriel is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Gabriel missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Mladenov is trying to hold Gabriel in close to prevent damage but Gabriel has managed to pass into half guard.
Gabriel is trying to control. Mladenov wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Gabriel prevents Mladenov from improving his position.
Gabriel works his foot free and advances to mount.
Mladenov keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Gabriel can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Mladenov is looking to escape.

Gabriel with some aggressive grappling here. He's looking for submissions here, rather than waiting for the opportunity to counter.
Gabriel thuds his fist into the canvas! Oooouch!

Gabriel is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Mladenov can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Gabriel prevents Mladenov from getting the reversal.

Gabriel goes for an armbar but he's fallen flat on his backside there and now Mladenov is on top in guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Gabriel not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Gabriel is pulling down on Mladenov's head. It's preventing any offense from Mladenov, at least for the moment.
Mladenov throwing strikes but missing.
Gabriel looking to control.
Gabriel avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Mladenov is in close to Gabriel's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Mladenov forces his way into half guard.
Mladenov controlling the pace.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gabriel makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Gabriel.
Mladenov in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Gabriel throwing strikes off his back to little effect.

Gabriel had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Mladenov defends it easily.
Gabriel wants to sweep here but Mladenov controlling him for the moment.
Mladenov loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Gabriel looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Gabriel has his foot on Mladenov's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Mladenov works his way back into a safe position though.
Mladenov throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Gabriel works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Gabriel is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Jacques Gabriel will probably get the nod.
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.

Gabriel stuffs the takedown attempt from Mladenov. Mladenov gets slowly back to his feet.
Mladenov is trying hard to land a takedown here. Gabriel sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Gabriel shoots and misses

and Mladenov counters with a nice single leg takedown and he's in Gabriel's guard now.

Gabriel working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Mladenov doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Mladenov manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Gabriel is looking to stand up but Mladenov isn't so interested in that idea.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Mladenov wants to control from the top but Gabriel keeps moving.

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

Gabriel is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Mladenov is aware though and is defending well.
Mladenov trying to control the position from guard on top but Gabriel is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Mladenov passes Gabriel's left leg - he's now in half guard.

Gabriel is defending against the submission attempts here by Mladenov.
Mladenov scores with a couple of good hammerfists.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Gabriel makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Gabriel.
Gabriel avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Gabriel working a defensive guard here.
Mladenov in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.

Gabriel working for a triangle but Mladenov defends it easily.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Mladenov throws a strike but Gabriel rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top.
Gabriel postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Mladenov throwing strikes off his back to little effect.
Gabriel stands and throws Mladenov's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Mladenov is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Gabriel's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Gabriel is trying to control the action in half guard but Mladenov is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Gabriel thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.

Mladenov looking for submissions off his back.
Gabriel prevents Mladenov from improving his position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Gabriel is looking for a kimura here.
Mladenov is staying active underneath Gabriel, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Mladenov trying to control but Gabriel postures up.

Gabriel seems to be working for a kimura but Mladenov defends the submission attempt.
Mladenov is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Gabriel is looking for a kimura here.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but Jacques Gabriel did the better work so I'd imagine he'll take it.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!

A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Gabriel.

Mladenov scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Gabriel is looking for a sweep.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Mladenov looking to control but instead Gabriel has slipped a leg in, to regain half guard.
Ground and pound from Mladenov.
Gabriel has hold of Mladenov's hands but Mladenov slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Gabriel trying to control from the bottom.
Nice strikes from Mladenov there.
Gabriel is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Mladenov scores with a couple of nice shots.
Mladenov missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Gabriel wants to get back to full guard.
Gabriel avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Mladenov.

Mladenov wants to work for an arm triangle but Gabriel is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Mladenov prevents Gabriel from improving his position.
Mladenov throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Mladenov sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Gabriel defending well though.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Gabriel is refusing to be controlled, as Mladenov sits in half guard.
Gabriel moves into full guard.
Gabriel manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Mladenov manages to get himself to full guard.
Gabriel postures up and lands a big shot to Mladenov's brow.
Mladenov is trying to control the position but Gabriel postures up.
Gabriel trying to control the position from guard on top but Mladenov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Mladenov avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Mladenov tries to land a sweep but no joy.

Mladenov is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Mladenov is absolutely dripping with sweat - he looks exhausted.

Mladenov has his foot on Gabriel's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Gabriel works his way back into a safe position though.
Gabriel wants to control from the top but Mladenov keeps moving.
Mladenov avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Mladenov is trying to keep Gabriel in close.
Gabriel content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Gabriel is pushing down on Mladenov's leg trying to pass to half guard. Mladenov is fighting to maintain full guard but Gabriel has managed to sneak the leg through.

Gabriel is trying to work for a kimura but Mladenov is defending well.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gabriel missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Jacques Gabriel overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Mladenov avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Gabriel.

Gabriel seems to be working for a kimura but Mladenov defends the submission attempt.
Mladenov wants to control but Gabriel is keeping busy and won't allow it.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Mladenov missing with punches from the bottom.

Gabriel is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Mladenov doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Gabriel.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close fourth round but Blagoi Mladenov will probably get the nod - 10:9.
That's time! Back to the action! Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!

Gabriel throws an overhand right that lands on Mladenov's shoulder, as Mladenov tries to avoid the shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nice sprawl there from Mladenov as Gabriel shoots in.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Gabriel throws a right hand that Mladenov ducks under and follows up with a left that Mladenov also avoids with ease.

Mladenov shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Mladenov showed some decent athleticism there.
Gabriel trying to control here.
Gabriel moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Mladenov is pushing down on Gabriel's leg trying to pass to half guard. Gabriel is fighting to maintain full guard but Mladenov has managed to sneak the leg through.
Gabriel is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Mladenov's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Mladenov's back!

Gabriel looking for the choke but no joy.
Mladenov wants to get back to his feet.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Mladenov covering up well under a series of strikes from Gabriel.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Mladenov trying to control the position but Gabriel manages to sink in the hooks.

Mladenov defending nicely against the rear naked choke attempt.
Gabriel keeps control of the position as Mladenov tries to break free.
Mladenov is wobbling all over the place through exhaustion. Will he make it to the final bell?

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Gabriel trying desperately to keep hold of the dominant position.
Mladenov is in bad spot here.
Mladenov breaks Gabriel's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
Mladenov wants to control from the top but Gabriel keeps moving.

Gabriel is looking for a triangle but Mladenov pushes his legs off easily.
Mladenov preventing the sweep.
Gabriel looking to control.
Mladenov is looking to work some ground and pound but Gabriel has wrist control.
Mladenov postures up.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:18 of round 5, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Jacques Gabriel!
Jacques Gabriel retains his middleweight title!
After winning the bout, Jacques Gabriel thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.