TBD#5 ASKREN vs. CARTER PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Max Assadi (ranked 25309 p4p, 853 weight class) and Ozamataz Buckshank (ranked 9077 p4p, 756 weight class). On his way into the cage it seems that Max Assadi has been attacked by a crazed fan! It looks like it might have been the just bleed guy! Luckily Max Assadi seems to be OK! I thought that lunatic was in prison!?

Assadi
vs
Buckshank

191 cm
24
233 lbs
0 - 2 - 0

196 cm
18
269 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Dangerous knees
Very quick

BJJ White Belt
Excellent boxer
Granite chin

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 0 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Max Assadi!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Ozamataz Buckshank!
The judges for this bout are Josh West, Ryoma Takatsuka and Colin Fray.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Assadi tries to clinch but Buckshank moves out of range.
Assadi will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.

Assadi clinches.
Buckshank pushes off an throws an elbow but Assadi leans to the side and avoids it. We're back to clinching against the cage.
A short right from Assadi on the inside.
Buckshank wants to stall.
Assadi lands an elbow just above Buckshank 's eye.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Assadi working Buckshank over with knees to the body.
Assadi is stalling here.
Assadi lands a nice uppercut.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Assadi breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Jab, jab by Buckshank - just one landing.

It looks like Max Assadi has been cut.
Buckshank misses with the combination.
Assadi tries to clinch but Buckshank moves away
and Buckshank counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Assadi misses with a combination
and Buckshank connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Buckshank looks to land a right hand but Assadi moved out of range.
Assadi seems to be moving with more speed, compared to his last bout. He must have been working on that in the gym.
Buckshank lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Assadi circles away quickly and effectively.
Assadi tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Buckshank paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Assadi backing away here, and Buckshank unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Buckshank tries to land a leg kick but Assadi saw it coming and moves away.
A little feinted left hand from Assadi on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Buckshank gets tackled into the cage by Assadi. Assadi maintains the clinch.
Buckshank blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Both guys are working to get underhooks.
Buckshank wants to get back to striking at distance but Assadi won't allow it.
Assadi tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.

Assadi breaks the clinch.
Buckshank's coach down at FIGHT LAB was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Buckshank's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
Assadi tries to move into range but Buckshank moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Assadi is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Assadi throws a predictable looking body shot
and Buckshank counters with a left right combination that sends Assadi crashing to the mat - Buckshank wastes no time in diving on top of him and pounding Assadi out for a TKO! Devastating finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:52 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ozamataz Buckshank!
An out of breath Ozamataz Buckshank thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
32%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Rod Marchand (ranked 9900 p4p, 857 weight class) and Noam Dar (ranked 8412 p4p, 793 weight class). Marchand comes to the cage accompanied by Daisy. Both fighter's entrance songs getting the crowd jumping here.

Marchand
vs
Dar

184 cm
19
178 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

175 cm
24
178 lbs
3 - 3 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Basic striking
Prefers standup

BJJ Purple Belt
Counter fighter
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the welterweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Hilo, Rod Marchand!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 3 - 0, fighting out of London, Noam Dar!
The judges for this bout are Roger Salmon, Ryoma Takatsuka and Chris Saunders.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Dar shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Marchand as he avoids it easily.
Dar fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Marchand misses with a wild combination.
Marchand scores with a hook to the body. Dar takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Dar swats away the attempt to clinch by Marchand.
Marchand misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
A low kick from Marchand is predictable there

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

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

Marchand looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Dar has picked Marchand up and slammed him! Marchand can't keep hold of the triangle and Dar manages to pass to side control!
Dar advances nicely into full mount.
Dar controlling from mount.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Marchand working to try and regain half guard.
Marchand looking to escape from mount but he's given up his back!
Dar really has the hooks in deep now - there seems like no escape for Marchand.
Marchand tries to roll but Dar sticks to his back.
Marchand trying to control the position but Dar manages to sink in the hooks.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Marchand is very frustrated here, being controlled quite effectively by Dar.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Dar keeps control of the position as Marchand tries to break free.

Marchand preventing the rear naked choke attempt from Dar.
Good control from Dar.
It looks like Dar might be adopting somewhat of a lay and pray gameplan here, which I'm sure won't go down too well with the paying fans in attendance... Or the ring announcers come to think of it.
Dar trying desperately to keep hold of the dominant position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Dar is trying to stick to Marchand's back but Marchand is turning into Dar. He's managed to reverse the position - now he's in Dar's guard. Polite applause from the crowd in appreciation of some nice Jiu Jitsu by Marchand.
Marchand postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Dar wants to get back to his feet but Marchand is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Dar trying to control the position here.
Marchand throwing strikes from guard but Dar blocks nicely.

Dar has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Marchand can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Dar has his hands on Marchand's head, controlling the position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Marchand won't allow Dar to sweep him here.
Dar lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.

Dar slips nicely into half guard.
Marchand moves into full guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.

Marchand working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Dar doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Dar manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Noam Dar dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.

Dar fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Marchand throws a head kick but Dar moves out of range.
Dar fails to land the takedown.
Marchand throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Dar.
The fight stays on the outside here - Marchand looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Marchand misses with a leg kick

and Dar counters with a nice double leg into side control. Marchand won't be happy with that.
Marchand tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Dar wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
The referee tells the fighters to keep busy.
Dar wants to lay and pray for a moment but Marchand keeps working.
Dar is breathing heavily.
Dar working the ground and pound.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Dar taking a breather here.
Marchand is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.
Dar is looking to take a break and control but Marchand is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Marchand tries to roll over but Dar keeps him under control.
Dar controlling the action here.
Marchand is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.
Dar performing his best blanket impression for a moment.
Marchand makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Marchand.

Marchand isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Dar stacks Marchand 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 Dar!
Dar has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Marchand is trying to work for a sweep but Dar has mounted him!
Noam Dar has got the better of the ground game so far.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Dar wants to take his opponent's back but Marchand doesn't allow it.
Dar manages to capitalize on a mistake by Marchand to take his back!
Marchand looks to control his opponent's hands but he's not mananging it at the moment.
Dar biding his time, looking for the opening.
Dar is trying to stick to Marchand's back but Marchand is turning into Dar. He's managed to reverse the position - now he's in Dar's guard. Polite applause from the crowd in appreciation of some nice Jiu Jitsu by Marchand.
Marchand advances position into side control!

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

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Marchand is trying to move to mount but Dar reverses beautifully and ends up in Marchand's guard.
Dar scoring with punches to the head and body.
Marchand trying to control the position.
Dar is stalling in the full guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Dar slips nicely into half guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Noam Dar showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Marchand's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. And we move into the final round!

Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Marchand lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Dar has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Dar and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Marchand throws a combination that misses

and Dar counters with a shoot takedown. Marchand fights it but they end up in guard.
Dar is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.

Marchand had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Dar defends it easily.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Dar seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Dar is continuing to stall.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Dar passes Marchand's left leg - he's now in half guard.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Dar connects with a nice short shot to Marchand's temple.
Dar wants to lay and pray for a moment but Marchand keeps working.
Dar slows the pace down in half guard.

Marchand looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Marchand wants to get back to full guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Marchand is working hard here to advance position.
Dar with a momentary lay and pray from half guard.
Dar wants to pass the guard but Marchand is defending well.
Still in half guard, Dar seems content to control.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Rod Marchand seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Marchand throws out a powerful jab.
Marchand throws a right and a left that Dar avoids nicely.
Dar throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range.
Dar shoots in looking for a takedown. Marchand tries to sprawl out of it but Dar keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Marchand manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Rod Marchand is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Dar shoots in and drives through. Marchand sprawls well.
A little feinted left hand from Marchand on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Marchand thows a leg kick but Dar checks it

and Dar counters with a takedown into side control.
Dar trying to control the position but Marchand is working away.
Marchand is trying to get back to half guard.
Marchand sneaks back into half guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Marchand moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Marchand keeping moving, preventing Dar from controlling successfully.

Marchand looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Marchand being controlled here, momentarily.
Rod Marchand has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Noam Dar is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Dar sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Marchand's guard.

And that's the end of the fight!
Noam Dar comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Dar winning every round here. Surely the decision will go his way and he'll pick up a well deserved decision victory. 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 Roger Salmon scores the fight 27:30
Judge Ryoma Takatsuka scores the fight 27:30
Judge Chris Saunders scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Noam Dar!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
30%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Christian Walrath (ranked 7999 p4p, 561 weight class) and Kongchai Phetboonme (ranked 9515 p4p, 599 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?

Walrath
vs
Phetboonme

170 cm
18
145 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

175 cm
19
148 lbs
0 - 1 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Good chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent MT
Granite chin

Sully's Bar & Grill
Freebok (85% Laundry)

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 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Hilo, Christian Walrath!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Kongchai Phetboonme!
The judges for this bout are Colin Fray, Josh West and Paul Gruel.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Phetboonme loads up on a big right hand but Walrath slips the punch.
Walrath tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Phetboonme dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Walrath gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Phetboonme counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Phetboonme throws a body shot but no joy.
Phetboonme throws a quick inside leg kick.
A right-left combo lands from Phetboonme.
Phetboonme moves out of range of the body kick.
Phetboonme misses with a body shot.
Phetboonme throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Walrath appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
Phetboonme is looking to land body kicks.
Walrath fails with an attempt to clinch.

Phetboonme has taken the fight to the clinch.
A shot in the inside from Phetboonme.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
A short right from Phetboonme on the inside.
Phetboonme prevents Walrath from breaking the clinch.
Walrath is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Phetboonme is defending well.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Walrath looking to stall.
Walrath blocks a body shot from Phetboonme.
Phetboonme tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Walrath's elbow.
Walrath wants to break free. God knows he wants to breaaaak freeee.
Walrath is trying to break free.
Phetboonme scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Walrath tries to pull guard but Phetboonme forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Christian Walrath. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Phetboonme lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Walrath is trying to pull guard but being pressed up against the cage enables Phetboonme to keep the fight standing.
Phetboonme lands a shoulder strike.
Walrath stalling in the clinch but Phetboonme improves position.
Phetboonme prevents a body shot from Walrath.
Walrath goes for a takedown attempt but Phetboonme pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
Phetboonme looks to score with a jab to the body but Walrath is just out of range.
Phetboonme throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Walrath stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Phetboonme turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Phetboonme scores with a shot to the body.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Phetboonme showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Walrath.
Phetboonme swinging wildly here.
Walrath appears to be looking for a big counter.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Phetboonme takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Nice sprawl there from Phetboonme as Walrath shoots in.
Phetboonme defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Walrath.
Kongchai Phetboonme seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A looping hook to the body misses from Phetboonme. Walrath does a little dance to reset his feet.
Phetboonme has been working on his striking defense in training and it's paying off as Walrath is landing a low percentage of strikes.
Jab by Phetboonme.
Walrath on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Phetboonme lands with a shot to the body.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Walrath.
Phetboonme connects with a solid leg kick.
Walrath takes one on the button.
Phetboonme fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Walrath manages to avoid it.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
No luck for Walrath with that takedown attempt.
Phetboonme is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Walrath rather than just go for the knockout.

Phetboonme closes the distance and pushes Walrath back into the cage.
Phetboonme tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Walrath's elbow.
Walrath takes a shot to the head.
A frustrated look appears on Walrath's face as he tries to break the clinch.
Walrath slows down the pace here.
Phetboonme doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
A right hand to the body from Phetboonme.
Phetboonme gets through Walrath's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Phetboonme lands a nice shot to the body.
Walrath is breathing heavily.
Phetboonme working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Phetboonme on the defensive, avoiding the knees to the body.
Phetboonme pushes Walrath back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
A right handed body shot lands from Phetboonme.
Good body shot from Phetboonme.
Phetboonme lands a hook that snaps the head of Walrath backwards.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Phetboonme.
Phetboonme pushes Walrath back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
A short right from Phetboonme.

Walrath is rocked!
Phetboonme presses Walrath against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Oh Walrath is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Phetboonme lands a body shot in the clinch.
Walrath seems to have got his legs back now.
Phetboonme scores with an uppercut up the middle.
A hook to the body from Phetboonme.
Phetboonme softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
A short left from Phetboonme.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Phetboonme creates a bit of space for himself and rocks Walrath with a big uppercut! Walrath tries to clinch up but Phetboonme pushes him back against the cage and lands another monster strike that crumples Walrath to the mat! Walrath covers up and Phetboonme unloads with more strikes until the referee steps in to end the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:54 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Punches). Kongchai Phetboonme!
Kongchai Phetboonme made sure to mention his sponsor, Freebok (85% Laundry) in his post fight interview.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
58%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Maikel Fortuyn (ranked 4995 p4p, 546 weight class) and Reginald Velvet (ranked 25036 p4p, 824 weight class). Both these guys have solid standup skills and neither is particularly fantastic on the ground, so let's hope for a nice standup war!

Fortuyn
vs
Velvet

202 cm
19
255 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

225 cm
25
260 lbs
2 - 3 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent MT
Very quick

BJJ White Belt
Excellent boxer
Heavy handed

Reaper Combatwear

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of London, Maikel Fortuyn!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 3 - 0, fighting out of London, Reginald Velvet!
The judges for this bout are Roger Salmon, Chris Saunders and Josh West.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Velvet throws a right and a left that both miss.
Fortuyn swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Fortuyn throws a body shot but no joy.
Fortuyn looks to land a left hand but Velvet moved out of range nicely.
Reginald Velvet seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Velvet rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Fortuyn moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Velvet misses with a two punch combination.
Fortuyn lands a jab to the head.
Velvet misses with the combination.
Fortuyn connects with a solid leg kick.
Fortuyn dodges the punch combination from Velvet.
Fortuyn misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Velvet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Fortuyn swings for the body but Velvet moves out of range.
Fortuyn lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Velvet throws a series of punches but Fortuyn moves out of range.
Velvet looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Velvet falls off balance throwing a combination
and Fortuyn counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.

Fortuyn moves into the clinch.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Fortuyn scores with a nice hook to the head.
Fortuyn throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Velvets head.

It looks like Reginald Velvet has been cut.
Velvet struggles to land a body shot inside as Fortuyn controls his hands.
Still in the clinch, Fortuyn scores with a nice short uppercut.
Fortuyn lands a nice uppercut.
Velvet looks winded!
Velvet tries to break the clinch but Fortuyn is controlling the position.
Velvet tries to work over Fortuyn's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Fortuyn prevents a body shot from Velvet.
Fortuyn lands a hook that snaps the head of Velvet backwards.
Nice body punch from Fortuyn - that landed with a thud.
Fortuyn lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Velvet.
Fortuyn lands with a left to the head.
Fortuyn lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Fortuyn lands a hook that snaps the head of Velvet backwards.

Velvet is rocked!
Fortuyn pushes Velvet back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Velvet is still on wobbly legs! Can Fortuyn finish him?
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Fortuyn lands a body shot in the clinch.
Fortuyn pushes Velvet against the cage. Fortuyn is working some dirty boxing. Fortuyn pushes off with a quick right hook! Velvet goes down! Velvet tries to stand but stumbles back to his kness! Fortuyn moves in to finish and the ref steps in to prevent any more damage!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:52 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Maikel Fortuyn!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
65%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Benedict Cumberbatch (ranked 4635 p4p, 574 weight class) and Justin Coon (ranked 5454 p4p, 642 weight class). Justin Coon will no doubt be trying to keep this one on the feet, where he has a distinct advantage.

Cumberbatch
vs
Coon

178 cm
19
181 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

180 cm
24
180 lbs
1 - 2 - 0

Powerful takedowns
Basic striking
Cardio machine

BJJ Blue Belt
Dangerous knees
Can Moonwalk

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the welterweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Hilo, Benedict Cumberbatch!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Hilo, Justin Coon!
The judges for this bout are Jeff Smith, Colin Fray and Paul Gruel.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
No luck for Cumberbatch with that takedown attempt.
Coon thinks about the counter body kick.

Coon gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Cumberbatch to score an easy takedown into full guard.
Coon keeping moving, preventing Cumberbatch from controlling successfully.
Cumberbatch missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Coon is looking to stand up but Cumberbatch isn't so interested in that idea.
Cumberbatch trying to control the position from guard on top but Coon is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Cumberbatch is standing up over Coon. Coon looks to escape but Cumberbatch dives into side control.
Cumberbatch trying to control the action but Coon is working from the bottom.
Cumberbatch sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Coon is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.

Cumberbatch working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
Cumberbatch wants to lay and pray for a moment but Coon keeps working.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Coon bucks up and tries to throw Cumberbatch off but instead Cumberbatch has got his back!

Cumberbatch is staying calm and holding on to the back position, whilst working on a rear naked choke. Coon is defending well though. Cumberbatch let's go of the attempt for now.
Coon trying to get back to his feet but Cumberbatch is in full control for now.
Cumberbatch definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Coon is in a world of trouble here. He's outmatched on the ground here and he'd better get Cumberbatch off his back sharpish unless he wants to be submitted.

Cumberbatch is looking for the choke from the back position but Coon is controlling his hands well.
Coon is trying to get back to his feet but he's not managed it yet.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Cumberbatch is trying to control but Coon is trying to escape here - he's now mounted.
Cumberbatch tries to control but Coon wriggling away.
Cumberbatch misses with a head shot.
Cumberbatch thuds his fist into the canvas! Oooouch!

Cumberbatch looks like he's working for a submission but he's not found anything just yet.

Cumberbatch wants to finish this one by submission but Coon is holding onto his waist, trying to prevent any attacks from Cumberbatch.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Cumberbatch goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Coon turns into him and now he's in Cumberbatch's guard.

Cumberbatch had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Coon defends it easily.
Coon trying to stand up but can't free himself from Cumberbatch's guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cumberbatch 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.

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

Cumberbatch tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Coon defends well and Cumberbatch ends up having to push Coon into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.

Cumberbatch feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
Cumberbatch stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Coon swivels though and keeps the full guard.

Cumberbatch 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.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cumberbatch wants to pass the guard but Coon is keeping the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cumberbatch slips nicely into half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Coon is defending against the submission attempts here by Cumberbatch.
Coon is not content to let Cumberbatch control the position.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Cumberbatch is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
Cumberbatch is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Coon can do to turn this around?
Coon is not content to let Cumberbatch control the position.
Cumberbatch is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for Coon!

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Cumberbatch trying to control but he's not successful this time.

Cumberbatch working for a submission here. He's tucked his head under his opponent's arm, looking for an arm triangle. He's hopped off into side control, looking to tighten the submission... is it going to work? He's given up a good position looking for it. Coon looks OK. Oh, I spoke too soon, he's out! That must have been tighter than I thought! Excellent work there by Cumberbatch! Submission of the night perhaps?

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:26 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Arm Triangle). Benedict Cumberbatch!
After winning the bout, Benedict Cumberbatch thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
30%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Matt Hall (ranked 9029 p4p, 597 weight class) and Edmond Moore (ranked 24600 p4p, 637 weight class). Chooooooooon! I think Hall might be my favorite fighter, now he's come out to Dance Till You're Dead. Edmond Moore is the more experienced fighter, so let's see if that makes a difference tonight.

Hall
vs
Moore

178 cm
24
160 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

177 cm
19
162 lbs
2 - 3 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Counter fighter
Good in bed

BJJ Brown Belt
Counter fighter
Tends to cut

Freebok (85% Laundry)

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 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of New York, Matt Hall!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Hilo, Edmond Moore!
The judges for this bout are Ryoma Takatsuka, Jeff Smith and Josh West.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Moore throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Hall tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Moore is in Hall's guard.
Moore throws a big right hand that misses.

Moore thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Hall knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Moore on the ground.

Moore drops back looking for a leg! Hall is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Hall manages to kick Moore off! Moore jumps back into Hall's guard.
Moore trying to control the position from guard on top but Hall is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Moore forces his way into half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Moore trying to control from half guard but Hall is working away.

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

That's one minute gone in the round.
Moore not landing any meaningful shots this time.

Moore is looking for a kimura but Hall is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Moore to get the leverage.
Hall avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Moore.

Moore is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Hall has managed to free his arm - good work.
Moore frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.

Moore working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet.

Moore working for a submission but Hall is keeping him at bay.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:21 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Edmond Moore!
Matt Hall was interviewed post fight and said 'My opponent got the better of me in that fight and showed me that there is still stuff left to work on so I'll make sure to come back twice as good next time. ;))))))))'.

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 middleweight MMA rules bout between Hunter Legacy (ranked 24599 p4p, 783 weight class) and Ivan Durak (ranked 25287 p4p, 868 weight class). 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.

Legacy
vs
Durak

195 cm
24
195 lbs
4 - 2 - 0

183 cm
20
195 lbs
0 - 2 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid Muay Thai
Experienced

BJJ Blue Belt
Dangerous knees
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 4 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Hilo, Hunter Legacy!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Ivan Durak!
The judges for this bout are Colin Fray, Ryoma Takatsuka and Josh West.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Durak throws a head kick but Legacy moves out of range.
Durak defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Legacy.
Durak is looking to land body kicks.
Horrible takedown attempt by Legacy or perhaps it was just good defense by Durak, which made it look bad.
Durak tries to bum rush Legacy with a series of wild strikes but Legacy uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Legacy circles away from the clinch attempt.
Legacy delivers a nice body kick.
Durak throws a front kick aimed at Legacy's knee but Legacy avoids it well.
Legacy shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Durak but Durak pushes him off and we're back to square one.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Hunter Legacy. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Legacy tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Durak swivels and escapes.
Durak is looking to land body kicks.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Legacy lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Durak circles away quickly and effectively.
Durak throws a left and a right that both miss
and Legacy counters with a nice uppercut.
Durak looks to land a body kick but Legacy moved away.
Durak throws a sloppy head kick and Legacy moves out of range easily.
Legacy is trying to close the distance and clinch up, after that failed offence from Durak.

Legacy closes the distance and pushes Durak back into the cage.

That's one minute gone in the round.
A bit of stalling here from Legacy.

Legacy pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
A bone on bone clash there as Legacy blocks the leg kick.
Legacy will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Despite the aggression on Durak's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.

Legacy clinches up with Durak and pushes him back against the cage.
Legacy stalling.

Legacy manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back.
Legacy is breathing heavily.
Durak has decided he wants to stand but the closed guard of Legacy is proving hard to escape from.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Legacy holds on and takes a little breather.

Legacy had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Durak defends it easily.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Durak wants to stand and escape but instead Legacy has hit a sweep and he's now on top in guard.

Legacy seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up.
Legacy advances position into side control!
Legacy is staying tight to Durak's torso, preventing him from escaping.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Legacy scores with punches from side control.
Legacy landing a few strikes.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Durak seems a little lost for a moment, as Legacy dominates the positioning.
Durak gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there!
Legacy working away from the top, dropping strikes.

Legacy is working to isolate an arm here. It's a telegraphed submission attempt but he's gone for it anyway - and he's got it! Legacy extends the arm and Durak is forced to tap!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Hunter Legacy!
In his post fight interview, Hunter Legacy gave a big smile as he said 'I get more puss-puss than anyone else in this arena'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
32%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Dyl Stephens (ranked 4073 p4p, 477 weight class) and Martin Taylor (ranked 5901 p4p, 611 weight class). Martin Taylor has the power to score a knockout today if he connects clean with Dyl Stephens 's chin.

Stephens
vs
Taylor

185 cm
26
192 lbs
3 - 1 - 0

193 cm
19
190 lbs
4 - 1 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid Muay Thai
Big heart

Good wrestler
Counter fighter
Powerful

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 3 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Dyl Stephens !
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Hilo, Martin Taylor!
The judges for this bout are Jeff Smith, Micheangelo Fripello and Josh West.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Stephens throws a head kick that misses.
Taylor looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Taylor misses with a straight right.
A jab from Taylor misses.
A looping hook to the body misses from Stephens . Taylor does a little dance to reset his feet.
Taylor let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Stephens misses with a head kick.
Stephens throws a lazy head kick
and Taylor counters with a stiff right hand.
Stephens staying out of range there.
Taylor connects with a right hand. Stephens shakes it off.
Taylor bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Taylor ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Stephens moves away.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Stephens tries a head kick but it misses.
Taylor is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Stephens with a body shot.

Taylor cracks Stephens with a big right hand that sends him to the floor! Stephens looks wobbly but he's sprung back up to his feet straight away… can Taylor finish him?
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!

Stephens clinches up with Taylor and pushes him back against the cage.

That's one minute gone in the round.
A short right from Taylor.

Stephens is rocked!
Stephens throws a knee to the head but misses.
Taylor lands a body shot.
Taylor gets through Stephens 's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Taylor pushes Stephens back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
A nice right hand lands inside from Taylor.
A right hand to the body from Taylor.
Stephens throws an elbow that misses.
A short right from Stephens .
A right hand to the body from Taylor.
Stephens is breathing heavily.
A nice right hand lands inside from Taylor.
Taylor lands a hook to the side of the head.
Oh Stephens is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Taylor lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Stephens backwards.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.

Taylor drops Stephens onto one knee with a big uppercut from the clinch! Stephens is propped up by the cage and works his way back to his feet!
Taylor digs a right hand underneath Stephens 's ribcage. Stephens let out a lung full of air as it connected.
Taylor lands a hook to the side of the head.
Taylor lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Stephens backwards.

Taylor drops Stephens onto one knee with a big uppercut from the clinch! Stephens is propped up by the cage and works his way back to his feet!

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Taylor creates a bit of space for himself and rocks Stephens with a big uppercut! Stephens tries to clinch up but Taylor pushes him back against the cage and lands another monster strike that crumples Stephens to the mat! Stephens covers up and Taylor unloads with more strikes until the referee steps in to end the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:11 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Punches). Martin Taylor!
A victorious Martin Taylor thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
88%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Ryan Griffin (ranked 8419 p4p, 733 weight class) and Angel Soriano (ranked 7688 p4p, 709 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Griffin
vs
Soriano

195 cm
19
245 lbs
5 - 2 - 0

180 cm
18
230 lbs
3 - 0 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Good chin

Good wrestler
Counter fighter
Solid chin

Freebok (85% Laundry)

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Hilo, Ryan Griffin!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Angel Soriano!
The judges for this bout are Josh West, Chris Saunders and Roger Salmon.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Nice takedown defense from Soriano. No joy for Griffin on that attempt.
Both fighters circling a little - Griffin finishes the exchange with a kick to the body.
Griffin changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Soriano tries to avoid it but Griffin manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Soriano to the ground. Soriano escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Ryan Griffin seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.

Griffin shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Soriano's guard.
Griffin with a flurry of punches that miss.

Griffin thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
We've been hearing that Griffin has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Griffin pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Soriano is keeping the position for now.
Soriano lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.

Soriano must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Griffin has his foot on Soriano's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Soriano works his way back into a safe position though.
Soriano is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Griffin 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.

Griffin working for a triangle but Soriano defends it easily.
Both fighters have adopted an aggressive gameplan on the ground!
Soriano sitting in guard here, content to control.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Griffin throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.

Soriano avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Soriano is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Soriano stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Griffin swivels though and keeps the full guard.

Griffin looking for a guillotine here but Soriano defends easily.
Soriano is pushing down on Griffin's leg trying to pass to half guard. Griffin is fighting to maintain full guard but Soriano has managed to sneak the leg through.
Soriano looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Soriano controlling the action here.
Soriano really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Griffin. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Let's hope that Soriano has the urge to step up the pace any second now because for the last 15 or 20 seconds he's just been holding on tight.
Soriano trying to mount his opponent but Griffin defends it.
Soriano prevents Griffin from improving his position.
Soriano looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.

Griffin is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Soriano pulls his head out easily.

Griffin actively working from the bottom here.
Well, if Soriano 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.
Griffin wants to get back to full guard.

Griffin looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Griffin tries to roll over but Soriano keeps him under control.
Soriano content to control rather than advance.

Griffin actively working from the bottom here.
Griffin tries to roll over but Soriano keeps him under control.
Soriano is pressing down on Griffin's thigh, looking to free his foot. Griffin is holding on for now.

Griffin looking for submissions off his back.
Soriano controlling the action here.
Soriano trying to pass the guard but Griffin defending well.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Soriano prevents Griffin from improving his position.
Griffin is pressing down on Soriano's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Soriano is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Soriano's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.

Griffin is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Soriano is aware though and is defending well.
Soriano's corner is telling him to maintain position.
Soriano wants to pass the guard but Griffin is keeping the position.

Griffin looking for a guillotine here but Soriano defends easily.
Soriano showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!

Griffin looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Griffin throws a body kick despite being completely out of range

and Soriano counters with a nice double leg into guard.

Griffin looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Soriano passes into half guard.
Soriano sitting and controlling from the half guard.

Soriano moves into side control, avoiding a weak kimura attempt from Griffin.
Angel Soriano has got the better of the ground game so far.
Griffin is letting Soriano control him for a moment.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Griffin misses with a strike from the bottom.
Soriano in side control, just content to control the action for now.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Griffin is looking to regain half guard here but Soriano keeps moving and retains side control.
Soriano tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
Griffin tries to bench press Soriano off him but Soriano keeps the position.
Soriano has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Griffin regains half guard.
Soriano throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Well, if Soriano 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.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.

Griffin actively working from the bottom here.
Soriano content to sit in half guard and control for a moment.

Griffin looking for a kimura from the bottom but Soriano passes into side control!
Griffin tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Soriano works to advance to full mount. Griffin defends for a few seconds but eventually he succumbs.
Soriano sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.
Griffin keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Soriano sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Soriano is continuing to stall.
The adventures of Soriano the control monster continue. Boring.
Griffin is in all sorts of trouble here.
Soriano controlling his opponent.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Griffin is wriggling around trying to escape.
Soriano controlling the position easily from mount.
Griffin is wriggling around trying to escape.
Griffin is working hard here to advance position.
Soriano controlling from the full mount.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Soriano wants to control the pace but Griffin is squirming around nicely.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Angel Soriano showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!

Griffin closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Griffin is looking to take this one to the mat.
Griffin tries to break the clinch but Soriano is controlling the position.
Soriano is pressed up against the cage. Griffin has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Soriano down to the mat. Soriano avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Griffin is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
And Soriano tries to counter it with a takedown but Griffin pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Soriano avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Griffin ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Griffin misses with a body shot

and Soriano counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Soriano sitting in guard, not really doing much.

Soriano got a little sloppy there for a moment and Griffin has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Soriano has managed to get both his arms back between Griffin's legs - danger averted.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Griffin being controlled here, momentarily.
Griffin wants to sweep but no luck.
Soriano showing good wrestling skills to control the position.

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

Griffin looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Soriano is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Soriano pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Griffin is keeping the position for now.

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

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Soriano is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Soriano lands a couple of elbows.
Soriano won't allow Griffin to sweep him here.

Griffin has his foot on Soriano's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Soriano works his way back into a safe position though.
Soriano is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.

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

Griffin looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Soriano slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Griffin looking for a guillotine here but Soriano defends easily.
Soriano controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.

Griffin escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Soriano gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Soriano is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.

Griffin is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Soriano defends well.
Soriano controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
There's not a lot going on here and the crowd are letting the fighters know they're not willing to tolerate a lack of action.

Griffin working for a triangle but Soriano defends it easily.
Griffin avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.

Griffin escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Soriano gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Soriano seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Griffin keeping full guard, as Soriano tries to pass.
Ryan Griffin has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Angel Soriano is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.

Griffin had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Soriano defends it easily.

And that's the end of the fight!
Angel Soriano comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Soriano winning every round here. Surely the decision will go his way and he'll pick up a well deserved decision victory. 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 Josh West scores the fight 28:29
Judge Chris Saunders scores the fight 28:29
Judge Roger Salmon scores the fight 28:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Angel Soriano!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
24%

Main event

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Yen Askren (ranked 2402 p4p, 311 weight class) and Michael Carter (ranked 2799 p4p, 354 weight class). Askren comes into the arena with Hello from the Askren Side blaring out of the sound system. Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Askren
vs
Carter

178 cm
19
185 lbs
4 - 0 - 0

186 cm
19
188 lbs
4 - 1 - 0

Good wrestling
Brawler
KO power

BJJ Purple Belt
Decent boxing
Granite chin

Freebok (85% Laundry)

Ravenways Corp
Reaper Combatwear

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 4 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Yen Askren!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 1 - 0, fighting out of New York, Michael Carter!
The judges for this bout are Chris Saunders, Josh West and Colin Fray.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Carter tests Askren's chin there with a solid looking shot.

It looks like Yen Askren has been cut.
A looping hook to the body misses from Carter. Askren does a little dance to reset his feet.
Carter is really turning it up, unleashing another crisp combination which drops Askren like a ton of bricks! The referee dives in to stop the fight, saving Askren from another fist facial!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:10 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Michael Carter!
Michael Carter is the new middleweight champion!
Michael Carter was full of energy after the big win and talked about how he thinks he can do big things in this sport. The crowd were appreciative of his determination to succeed.
Yen Askren spoke after the fight, saying 'I blame Bjorn and the Egg.'.