SPARTA 26 PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Drotenkov Filippovich (ranked 5621 p4p, 514 weight class) and Frankie Sparks (ranked 6836 p4p, 568 weight class). Sparks comes into a darkened arena with his song building. thunderstruck kicks in, the lights come on and the crowd goes wild! What a showman! Frankie Sparks will no doubt be trying to keep this one on the feet, where he has a distinct advantage.

Filippovich
vs
Sparks

175 cm
25
177 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

175 cm
25
175 lbs
0 - 1 - 0

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Good chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Decent boxing
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 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Drotenkov Filippovich!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Frankie Sparks!
The judges for this bout are Santiago Holmes, Michael Johnstone and Peter Branson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Filippovich swings widly with a right hand
and Sparks counters with a stiff right hand.
Sparks shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Filippovich but Filippovich pushes him off and we're back to square one.

Filippovich shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Sparks's guard.

Sparks pushes Filippovich off for just long enough to get back to his feet. Very athletic spring there.
Sparks wants to clinch.
Filippovich dips to his left and cracks Sparks with an uppercut!
Filippovich misses with an uppercut. Sparks saw that one coming.

Filippovich gets tackled into the cage by Sparks. Sparks maintains the clinch.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Sparks is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Filippovich gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Filippovich tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Sparks just stands there and leans against the cage.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Sparks successfully pulls guard.
Filippovich stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Sparks swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Filippovich stopping the sweep attempt from Sparks.

Filippovich thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Filippovich tries to free his leg and advance position but Sparks is retaining full guard.
Sparks is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

Filippovich 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.
Sparks is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

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

Filippovich drops back, looking for a kneebar! Sparks looks panicked! The fighters roll across the mat, one looking to finish, one looking to escape. Sparks looks to have wriggled free... Yes, he's got his leg free and he's dived into side control! Good work there from Sparks!

Filippovich manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Sparks tries to stand but his arm is trapped.

Filippovich looking for submissions off his back.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Filippovich looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Filippovich is trying to get back to full guard.

Filippovich looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Filippovich wants to control but Sparks is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Filippovich controlling the position for now.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.

Filippovich looking for submissions off his back.
Filippovich controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.

Sparks is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Sparks really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Filippovich. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Filippovich is refusing to be controlled, as Sparks sits in half guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Sparks moves into the clinch.
Sparks's coach down at Temp Spar Gym was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Sparks's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
Filippovich wants to strike at distance but he can't break free of the clinch.
Filippovich prevents a takedown attempt there.
Filippovich misses with a short punch on the inside.

Sparks breaks the clinch.

Filippovich shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
Sparks is looking to improve his position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Filippovich is looking for a kimura. It's pretty deep but Sparks still has the half guard so he's probably OK. Oh, Sparks has exploded into a beautiful escape there and after a quick scramble, he's ended up in side control on top! Nice work!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Filippovich manages to work his way to half guard, despite Sparks's best efforts.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Filippovich looking for submissions off his back.
Filippovich avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Sparks.
Frankie Sparks has got the better of the ground game so far.
Sparks sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Filippovich defending well though.
Filippovich keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Filippovich is looking for a sweep. Sparks is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Filippovich avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Sparks.
Sparks with a momentary lay and pray from half guard.
Sparks is looking to take a break and control but Filippovich is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Filippovich avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Sparks.
Sparks sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Filippovich defending well though.
Filippovich regains full guard. Nicely done.
Sparks throws a big elbow that misses.
Filippovich pulls Sparks in to control the position.
Sparks is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Filippovich keeping full guard, as Sparks tries to pass.

Filippovich has his foot on Sparks's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Sparks works his way back into a safe position though.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Filippovich is looking to cinch up a triangle. Sparks throws the leg off to one side though and gets in tight to Filippovich's body to avoid the submission. Filippovich has instead reached around Sparks's neck and now has a guillotine! Oh, this is biiiig trouble! Filippovich arches his back and squeezes and forces the tap from his hapless opponent.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:26 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Drotenkov Filippovich!
In his post fight interview, Drotenkov Filippovich started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.
In defeat, Frankie Sparks stepped up to the mic, saying 'sorry better try harder I guess'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
33%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Rio Avalos (ranked 5727 p4p, 403 weight class) and Jonathan Harvey (ranked 5424 p4p, 388 weight class). Both fighters really staring each other down here, as Jonathan Harvey enters the cage!

Avalos
vs
Harvey

162 cm
25
152 lbs
1 - 3 - 0

169 cm
25
154 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

Good wrestling
Basic striking
Very strong

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 3 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Rio Avalos!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Jonathan Harvey!
The judges for this bout are Peter Branson, Dirk Anderson and David Hoff.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
A big right from Harvey misses.

Avalos gets the takedown into side control.
Avalos has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Harvey tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Avalos wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Harvey keeps trying to improve his position.
Avalos working the head with strikes.
Avalos scoring with punches from side control.
Avalos postures up a little and throws a couple of hammerfists but they don't connect properly.
Harvey is looking for a sweep.
Avalos in side control, just content to control the action for now.
Harvey is looking to regain half guard here but Avalos keeps moving and retains side control.
Harvey sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Harvey is trying to get back to full guard.

Harvey is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Avalos pulls his head out easily.

Harvey looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Avalos prevents Harvey from improving his position.

Harvey is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Avalos pulls his head out easily.

Harvey actively working from the bottom here.
Avalos scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Avalos landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.

Harvey looking for submissions off his back.
Avalos working Harvey over with strikes.
Nice strikes from Avalos there.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Avalos lands a nice short elbow.
Avalos scoring with strikes to the body and head.

Harvey looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Avalos is looking to take a break and control but Harvey is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Avalos slips a nice elbow through Harvey's hands, connecting with Harvey's forehead.
Harvey wants to get back to full guard.
Avalos drops an elbow to the side of Harvey's head.
Avalos lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Avalos scoring with strikes to the body and head.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Avalos lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.

Harvey looking for submissions from an awkward position here.

Harvey looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Harvey looks winded!
Avalos is looking to take a break and control but Harvey is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Avalos working the head and body with strikes.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Harvey looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Harvey taking some punishment here, with Avalos in his 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. Avalos connects with a nice short shot to Harvey's temple.
Avalos scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Avalos lands strikes from half guard.
Avalos lands with a punch from half guard.
Ground and pound from Avalos.
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. Avalos connects with a nice short shot to Harvey's temple.

Harvey looking for submissions off his back.
Harvey is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Avalos scores with a couple of nice shots.

Harvey is rocked!

Harvey is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Avalos pulls his head out easily.
Avalos is trying to control. Harvey wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Avalos working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Nice strikes from Avalos there.
Harvey is still in real trouble! Can Avalos finish him?
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Avalos lands a nice short elbow.
Avalos takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Avalos is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Avalos lands with a punch from half guard.
Avalos thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Harvey's head.
Harvey is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Avalos scores with a couple of nice shots.
Ground and pound from Avalos.

Harvey is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Avalos pulls his head out easily.
Harvey seems to have recovered his senses.
Avalos knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Harvey on the ground.
Ground and pound from Avalos.
Harvey on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Harvey is looking for a sweep. Avalos is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.

Harvey actively working from the bottom here.
Harvey has hold of Avalos's hands but Avalos slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Harvey staying out of range there.
Harvey drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Avalos defends it well.
A swing and a miss from Avalos.

Avalos darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Harvey tries to roll over but Avalos keeps him under control.

Harvey actively working from the bottom here.

Harvey has hold of a guillotine but he's not going to be able to crank on it really with only half guard, so it's no trouble for Avalos. Oh but Harvey has got full guard now! Oh boy! This one could be over very soon! Avalos goes limp - he's gone! Harvey jumps up and celebrates with the crowd - fantastic submission finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:48 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Jonathan Harvey!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
49%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Gustaf Alexandersson (ranked 4339 p4p, 498 weight class) and Amiti Speyer (ranked 5475 p4p, 558 weight class). Alexandersson comes to the cage accompanied by Amon Amarth - Twilight of the Thunder God. Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Alexandersson
vs
Speyer

196 cm
25
205 lbs
1 - 2 - 0

180 cm
25
210 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid boxing
Hates pizza

BJJ Blue Belt
Good kicks
Prefers standup

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 1 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Gustaf Alexandersson!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Amiti Speyer!
The judges for this bout are David Hoff, Daniel Franklin and Bart Greer.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Alexandersson misses with a jab, cross combination.
It seemed like Speyer was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Speyer throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Alexandersson on the side of the head.
Alexandersson takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Alexandersson lets the fists fly and connects with a left straight followed by a right hook.
Alexandersson looks to score with a jab to the body but Speyer is just out of range.
Speyer leaves Alexandersson with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
No joy there for Alexandersson, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Alexandersson fails to land with a series of punches.
Speyer flicks out a counter leg kick but Alexandersson steps away.
Speyer throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Alexandersson throwing a counter right hand but Speyer manages to avoid it.
Speyer scoring well with a low kick there.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Alexandersson is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Speyer.
Alexandersson seems to be moving with more speed, compared to his last bout. He must have been working on that in the gym.
Speyer with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
A head kick misses from Speyer.
Speyer jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Alexandersson loads up on a big right hand but Speyer slips the punch.
Speyer ducks under a wild hook from Alexandersson.
Speyer works the jab nicely.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Speyer plants his feet and lands a nice head kick!
An inside leg kick lands from Speyer.
Alexandersson cracks Speyer with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Speyer misses with an attempted mid kick.
Alexandersson half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Alexandersson feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Speyers jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Alexandersson keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Alexandersson moves out of range as Speyer strikes.
Speyer staying out of range there.
Alexandersson looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Alexandersson lands a nice shot to the body.
Alexandersson moves out of range as Speyer throws a body kick.
Alexandersson throws a series of punches but Speyer avoids them all with ease.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Speyer buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Alexandersson throws a series of punches but Speyer avoids them all with ease.
Alexandersson digs a good body shot into Speyer's ribs.
Alexandersson misses with the combination.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Speyer moves away from the strike by Alexandersson.
Alexandersson uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Speyer.
Gustaf Alexandersson seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Speyer throws a head kick but Alexandersson moves out of range.
Speyer uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Alexandersson.
Speyer delivers a nice body kick.
Alexandersson misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Speyer.
Alexandersson jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Speyer misses the jab.
Speyer lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Alexandersson at a distance.
Speyer slips a jab from Alexandersson.
Alexandersson lands the left hand.
Alexandersson takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Alexandersson misses with a hook. Speyer ducked under it nicely.
Speyer scores with a jab to the body.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Speyer lands with a nice body kick.
Alexandersson is breathing heavily.
Speyer moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Speyer connects with a leg kick. Alexandersson looked like he was expecting something else and didn't defend it.
Speyer lands a jab to Alexandersson's midsection.
Speyer on the wrong end of a nice jab.
No joy there for Alexandersson, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Amiti Speyer is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Speyer scores with a kick to the midsection.
Speyer scores with a jab to the body.
Speyer fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Speyer's corner calls for a 1-2. Speyer obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Speyer scores with a hook.
Speyer throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.

Alexandersson is rocked!
Speyer circles and sees the opportunity to plant his feet and throw a really nice straight left hand that drops Alexandersson to the canvas! Alexandersson doesn't know where he is but he's trying to survive - Speyer keeps piling on the pressure and forces the referee to step in! This one is aaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Amiti Speyer!
During a confident post fight interview, Amiti Speyer thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.
Gustaf Alexandersson spoke after the fight, saying 'Good fight, man!'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
68%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between John Cena (ranked 4790 p4p, 529 weight class) and Herbet Chesterfield (ranked 4029 p4p, 480 weight class). Cena's ring entrance music is that housewives' favourite, My Time Is Now. Herbet Chesterfield will no doubt be trying to keep this one on the feet, where he has a distinct advantage.

Cena
vs
Chesterfield

172 cm
26
213 lbs
2 - 3 - 0

188 cm
25
219 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

Good wrestling
Basic striking
Very quick

Decent wrestler
Decent boxing
Heavy handed

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 2 - 3 - 0, fighting out of The Island, John Cena!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Herbet Chesterfield!
The judges for this bout are Daniel Franklin, Peter Branson and Dirk Anderson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Chesterfield throws the left hand but Cena avoids the punch easily.
Cena is looking to clinch.
Chesterfield dips down and scores with a jab to the body.

Chesterfield gets caught flat footed, as Cena shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Cena with a flurry of punches that miss.
Cena 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.
Cena cracks Chesterfield with a solid left hand.
Cena is in close to Chesterfield's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Cena passes Chesterfield's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Cena missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Chesterfield keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Chesterfield blocking the ground and pound attempt from Cena.
Cena throwing shots but Chesterfield is blocking nicely.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cena lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Cena scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Cena seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Cena lands a big elbow - Chesterfield is out of it! He's waving his arms around but his eyes are closed and he's not intelligently defending himself - the ref has no choice but to jump in and stop the fight! This one is in the books! A TKO win for Cena!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). John Cena!
John Cena thanked the fans post fight for their support.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
72%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Shinya Aoki (ranked 3380 p4p, 383 weight class) and Sherlock Holmes (ranked 6757 p4p, 565 weight class). Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Aoki
vs
Holmes

171 cm
26
176 lbs
2 - 3 - 0

175 cm
25
178 lbs
1 - 4 - 0

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Cuts easily

BJJ Purple Belt
Basic striking
Granite 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 2 - 3 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Shinya Aoki!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 4 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Sherlock Holmes!
The judges for this bout are David Hoff, Peter Branson and Winston Alpacca.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Aoki listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Aoki tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Holmes was well out of range. Poor timing from Aoki.
Aoki misses with a straight right.
Aoki has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.
Sherlock Holmes seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A looping hook to the body misses from Holmes. Aoki does a little dance to reset his feet.
Aoki closes this distance looking for a takedown but Holmes circles away.
Aoki uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Holmes.
Holmes is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Aoki.

Aoki closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.

Aoki tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Aoki has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
You can see the frustration on Holmes's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Holmes sneaks back into half guard.
Holmes is trying to control but can't.
Holmes gets full guard.
Aoki has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Holmes looking for a guillotine here but Aoki defends easily.
Holmes seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
Holmes is looking to sweep but instead, Aoki has passed into half guard.

Aoki is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.

Aoki is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Holmes defends it well.
Holmes trying to hold on to Aoki's head to control him but Aoki postures up.

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

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Holmes wants to improve his position but Aoki is controlling well.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Holmes gets back to full guard.
Holmes working a defensive guard but Aoki manages to pass into side control anyway.

Aoki thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Holmes tries to bench press Aoki off him but Aoki keeps the position.

Aoki tries for a kimura but Holmes is defending well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

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

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Aoki is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Holmes knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Holmes struggling a bit here.
Holmes tries to improve position but can't.
Holmes is trying to control Aoki's posture but Aoki avoids it.

Aoki is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Holmes has escaped the position, nice work there.
You can see the frustration on Holmes's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.

That's four 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.
Holmes manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Holmes is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Aoki's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Aoki's back!
Holmes thows a strike but Aoki uses the opportunity to reverse the position! Great move by Aoki as he ends up in Holmes 's guard!
Holmes trying to control the position here.

Aoki 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.

Holmes looking for a guillotine here but Aoki defends easily.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Holmes bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Aoki's guard.

And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Shinya Aoki will probably get the nod.
That's time! Aoki's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.

A left lands for Aoki.
Holmes throws a lazy right hand but Aoki sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Aoki tries for a takedown but Holmes sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
A big right from Holmes misses.
Nice shot lands for Aoki.
Aoki fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Holmes on the side of the head.
Aoki shoots in looking for a takedown but Holmes manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Aoki's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Holmes ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Aoki moves away.
Aoki keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Aoki drops down looking for a counter takedown but Holmes sprawls and moves away.
Aoki bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Holmes's head.
Holmes ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Holmes thows a leg kick but Aoki checks it

and Aoki counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.

Aoki seems to be working for a kimura but Holmes defends the submission attempt.
Holmes makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Holmes.
Holmes keeping full guard, as Aoki tries to pass.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Holmes manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Aoki manages to get himself to full guard.

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

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

Holmes is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.
Our spies down at at ELITE Island Gym - 19 Elite Coaches inform us that Holmes has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?

Aoki 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.
Holmes is trying to keep Aoki in close.

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

Holmes throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Aoki stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Holmes swivels though and keeps the full guard.

Holmes looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Aoki sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Holmes's guard.
Holmes controlling the position well.

Aoki is trying to work for a kimura but Holmes is defending well.

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

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Holmes regains full guard. Nicely done.

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

Aoki 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.

Aoki thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Holmes keeping full guard, as Aoki tries to pass.

Holmes looking for a guillotine here but Aoki defends easily.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Holmes is on top in guard.

Holmes wants to control from the top but Aoki keeps moving.
Holmes engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Holmes preventing the sweep.
Aoki can't keep his opponent in guard - Holmes advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Holmes prevents Aoki from improving his position.

Aoki actively working from the bottom here.
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 Shinya Aoki will probably get the nod.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action. This is the final round!

A looping hook to the body misses from Holmes. Aoki does a little dance to reset his feet.
Aoki tries to counter with a takedown but Holmes is quick to defend against it.
Holmes misses with a body shot.
Holmes looks to score with a jab to the body but Aoki is just out of range.
Holmes takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Aoki.
A looping hook to the body misses from Aoki. Holmes does a little dance to reset his feet.
Jab, jab by Aoki - just one landing.
Holmes with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Aoki to score with a decent uppercut.
Some wild striking there from Holmes.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Holmes throws a right hand that Aoki ducks under and follows up with a left that Aoki also avoids with ease.
Holmes bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Holmes throws a body punch but Aoki moves out of range.
Holmes is looking to score with low kicks.
Holmes misses with a wild body shot.
Holmes is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Aoki rather than just go for the knockout.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Holmes shoots and misses

and Aoki counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Aoki preventing the sweep.
Holmes trying to keep a closed guard but Aoki is proving a slippery customer.

Holmes isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Aoki stacks Holmes 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 Aoki!
You can see the frustration on Holmes's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.

Aoki looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Shinya Aoki overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Holmes is looking to reverse the position.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

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

Aoki wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Holmes, who protects the arm well.
Holmes is looking to regain half guard here but Aoki keeps moving and retains side control.
Holmes is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Aoki off and has taken his back!

Holmes is working really hard to secure the rear naked choke. Aoki defends successfully for a significant amount of time. Both fighters are looking very determined.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Can Aoki hold on?! Holmes is landing more strikes to his hapless foe.
Sherlock Holmes has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!

Holmes looking for the RNC.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:20 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Sherlock Holmes!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
50%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Hayate Sakurai (ranked 3259 p4p, 301 weight class) and BJ Penn (ranked 4376 p4p, 354 weight class). BJ Penn acknowledges the crowd's support as he enters the cage.

Sakurai
vs
Penn

166 cm
26
151 lbs
3 - 3 - 0

175 cm
26
150 lbs
3 - 3 - 0

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Experienced

BJJ Blue Belt
Decent boxing
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 3 - 3 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Hayate Sakurai!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 3 - 0, fighting out of The Island, BJ Penn!
The judges for this bout are David Hoff, Dirk Anderson and Michael Johnstone.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Sakurai lands the left hand.
A big right from Sakurai misses.
BJ Penn seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Penn looks to score with a jab to the body but Sakurai is just out of range.
Penn with a nice cross.
Sakurai shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Penn counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Penn takes a swing at Sakurai's ribcage but misses.

Sakurai shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Sakurai was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!

Sakurai is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Penn knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Penn tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Sakurai wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.

Sakurai is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Penn is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!

Sakurai thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Sakurai tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Penn is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.
Sakurai in the domination position with Penn hanging on.

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

Sakurai wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Penn, who protects the arm well.

Sakurai tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Sakurai wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Penn, who protects the arm well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

Sakurai looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.

Sakurai working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Sakurai wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Penn, who protects the arm well.

Sakurai working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
Penn is positioning himself to get back to half guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Penn holding on.

Sakurai thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.

Sakurai looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.

Sakurai is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Penn knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Penn is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Sakurai's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.

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.
Penn tries to roll over but Sakurai keeps him under control.
Penn gets back to full guard.
Penn looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Sakurai stands and throws Penn's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Sakurai looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:43 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Hayate Sakurai!
During a confident post fight interview, Hayate Sakurai thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

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 super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Johnny Jacobs (ranked 4137 p4p, 147 weight class) and Isayev Artemovich (ranked 3303 p4p, 44 weight class). Jacobs comes to the cage accompanied by up to my neck. Johnny Jacobs has the edge in experience - let's see if he can make that count tonight.

Jacobs
vs
Artemovich

185 cm
25
270 lbs
2 - 2 - 0

180 cm
25
245 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

Good takedowns
Basic striking
KO power

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the super heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Johnny Jacobs!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Isayev Artemovich!
The judges for this bout are Peter Branson, David Hoff and Dirk Anderson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Artemovich throws an off balance right hand
and Jacobs counters with a series of strikes. Artemovich will be more careful next time no doubt.
Artemovich misses with a looping right.
Jacobs is looking to clinch.
Artemovich shoots for a double leg takedown but Jacobs sprawls well. He's pushed Artemovich's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Jacobs tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Artemovich defends well and Jacobs ends up having to push Artemovich into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Artemovich looks to land a left hand but Jacobs moved out of range nicely.
The fighters circling - Artemovich throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
A head kick misses from Jacobs.
Jacobs has been working on his balance at Temp Spar Gym, so perhaps that has help him stuff some of the takedown attempts by Artemovich.
Artemovich pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Jacobs closes the distance and clinches up with Artemovich, looking for a takedown. Jacobs pushes Artemovich against the cage but Artemovich circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Artemovich's coach down at Temp Spar Gym was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Artemovich's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
Jacobs ducks under a wild hook from Artemovich.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Artemovich keeps the fight on the outside.
Artemovich misses with an uppercut.

Jacobs moves into the clinch.
Jacobs is trying to pull guard but Artemovich turns him against the cage and we stay in the clinch.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Johnny Jacobs. That's going to take a lot out of him.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Jacobs tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Jacobs is looking for a takedown.
Jacobs blocks an uppercut.
Artemovich prevents a body shot from Jacobs.
Artemovich throws a head punch that misses.
Artemovich misses with some punches.

Jacobs breaks from the clinch.

Jacobs gets the takedown into side control.
Jacobs wants to stand but Artemovich has him controlled and pulls him back into his guard.
Jacobs tries to free his leg and advance position but Artemovich is retaining full guard.

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

Artemovich working for a triangle but Jacobs defends it easily.
Jacobs has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

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

Artemovich throws his legs up looking to secure a triangle. Oh, that looks pretty tight, I gotta say! Jacobs escapes and throws Artemovich's legs to the side, diving into side control!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Artemovich tries to bench press Jacobs off him but Jacobs keeps the position.
Jacobs throws a knee to the body but it doesn't do much damage.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Artemovich regains half guard, as Jacobs was trying to land strikes.
Artemovich blocking the ground and pound attempt from Jacobs.
Jacobs trying to control the action but Artemovich is working from the bottom.

The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Artemovich looking to force a kimura from the bottom here. He's concentrating on that move too much though and Jacobs pushes past his half guard into mount!
Artemovich tries to reverse the position but Jacobs maintains control.
Jacobs takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Jacobs tries to control but Artemovich wriggling away.
Jacobs lands a couple of good shots and Artemovich has given up his back, trying to escape the position!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Artemovich tries to escape the position.
The crowd hopeful of a finish here - Jacobs's supporters are on their feet, screaming for him to go for the rear naked choke.

Artemovich showing good submission defense here.
Jacobs has the hooks in. Artemovich is trying to push off one leg but he has to do so cautiously to avoid being submitted.
Jacobs is throwing strikes from the back here. Oh that last one was to the back of the head. Jacobs gets a warning from the referee. He throws another strike to the back of the head straight away though and the referee has seen enough. He breaks up the two fighters and stands them back up. Jacobs gets a real talking to here and is lucky not to get a point deducted. Jacobs apologises and we restart here on the feet.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Johnny Jacobs dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!

Jacobs decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
Artemovich is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Jacobs's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Jacobs's back!

Artemovich is looking to finish the fight by rear naked choke. Jacobs knows exactly what he's got planned though, so he's defending well. Maybe a few strikes would soften Jacobs for a finish.

Jacobs preventing the rear naked choke attempt from Artemovich.

Jacobs showing good submission defense here.
Jacobs tries to escape but Artemovich has the hooks in and won't let him break free.

Artemovich has his opponent's back and is working for the choke.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Jacobs is trying to get back to his feet but Artemovich has full control of the position and if anything, Jacobs has just worked his way into a worse spot.
Jacobs tries to escape the position.
Jacobs trying to control the action but Artemovich just sinks the hooks in.

Artemovich tightening his grip on Jacobs, looking for the choke.

Artemovich looking to break Jacobs's wrist control so he can sink in the choke. Jacobs remaining controlled and patient though - he really has to keep calm otherwise Artemovich will wrap this one up with the rear naked choke!

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Artemovich is working hard for the rear naked choke here.
Jacobs wants to control his opponent's hands but Artemovich gets his hands free.

Artemovich tightening his grip on Jacobs, looking for the choke.
I really don't envy Jacobs right now.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Jacobs is trying to get back to his feet but Artemovich has full control of the position and if anything, Jacobs has just worked his way into a worse spot.
Jacobs trying to control the hands but Artemovich breaks the grip.

Artemovich is staying calm and holding on to the back position, whilst working on a rear naked choke. Jacobs is defending well though. Artemovich let's go of the attempt for now.

Jacobs showing good submission defense here.
Jacobs turns into Artemovich and is now in his guard.
Artemovich is trying to control the position from the bottom.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Jacobs wants to control from the top but Artemovich keeps moving.
Jacobs is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Artemovich is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.

Artemovich is actively looking for submissions from his back. He's worked himself a little space on the bottom and seems to be going for a triangle. No, he's switched into an armbar! That was slick! Jacobs rolls with it to try and escape but Artemovich cranks on the arm and Jacobs is forced to tap out! This one is aaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:41 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Isayev Artemovich!
Isayev Artemovich tried to hype himself up post fight but didn't word it too well and it ended up with him sounding like a bit of a tool.
In defeat, Johnny Jacobs stepped up to the mic, saying 'sorry to the fans'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
41%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Tongchai Tor Silachai (ranked 2273 p4p, 30 weight class) and Collin Whitley (ranked 3425 p4p, 45 weight class). Whitley has chosen i stand alone as his entrance music. Tongchai Tor Silachai has a significant reach advantage - let's see if he can make it count.

Tor Silachai
vs
Whitley

196 cm
25
255 lbs
3 - 1 - 0

175 cm
25
230 lbs
2 - 2 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Granite chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Decent boxing
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the super heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 3 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Tongchai Tor Silachai!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Collin Whitley!
The judges for this bout are Sandra Marshall, Santiago Holmes and Bart Greer.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Whitley throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Tor Silachai counters with a right hand to the body.
Whitley throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Tor Silachai counters with a series of strikes. Whitley will be more careful next time no doubt.
Tor Silachai jabs at Whitley's body.
Whitley throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Whitley takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.

It looks like Collin Whitley has been cut.

Tor Silachai forces Whitley back against the cage and clinches.
Tor Silachai lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Whitley.
Whitley looks winded!
Whitley is trying to break the clinch but Tor Silachai is controlling him.
Tor Silachai gets underhooks to prevent Whitley's takedown attempt.
Whitley has had enough of the clinch but Tor Silachai keeps him there for the moment.
Whitley tries to break free but Tor Silachai pushes him back against the cage.
Tor Silachai softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
A short right from Tor Silachai.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Tor Silachai lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Tor Silachai lands a left hand that snaps the head of Whitley backwards.
Tor Silachai lands with a short shot to the head.

Whitley is rocked!
Tor Silachai is working Whitley over against the cage.
Whitley is still on wobbly legs! Can Tor Silachai finish him?
Tor Silachai creates some distance for himself and unleashes a massive uppercut that sends Whitley's eyes rolling into the back of his head! Whitley drops to his knees and Tor Silachai pours it on with more strikes until the referee steps in to end the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tongchai Tor Silachai!
Tongchai Tor Silachai spent the whole post fight interview bigging himself up. It didn't go down that well with the fans after a while as they thought it was a bit arrogant.
In defeat, Collin Whitley stepped up to the mic, saying 'sorry everyone'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
78%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Emilio Aguinaldo (ranked 2298 p4p, 266 weight class) and Aamado Korang (ranked 2995 p4p, 342 weight class). Aguinaldo comes into the arena with Noypi by Bamboo blaring out of the sound system. Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Aguinaldo
vs
Korang

185 cm
26
178 lbs
4 - 2 - 0

185 cm
25
177 lbs
3 - 2 - 0

Good wrestling
Solid boxing
Very quick

Good takedowns
Brawler
Determined

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 4 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Emilio Aguinaldo!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Aamado Korang!
The judges for this bout are Winston Alpacca, Bart Greer and Peter Branson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Korang shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Aguinaldo defends it nicely.
Korang gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Aguinaldo counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Aguinaldo connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Aguinaldo lands a jab.

Korang is rocked!
Korang dives in for a single leg takedown but Aguinaldo sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Emilio Aguinaldo has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Aamado Korang.
Korang misses with a takedown
and Aguinaldo counters with a huge overhand right that connects right on the temple, sending him crumpling, face first to the floor! This one is all over! What a knockout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:38 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Emilio Aguinaldo!
A relieved looking Emilio Aguinaldo thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
94%

Main event

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Antonio Luna (ranked 817 p4p, 110 weight class) and Robert Higgs (ranked 504 p4p, 68 weight class). Luna comes into the arena with Noypi by Bamboo blaring out of the sound system. This should be fireworks!

Luna
vs
Higgs

185 cm
26
192 lbs
5 - 0 - 0

193 cm
26
202 lbs
6 - 1 - 0

Good wrestling
Solid boxing
KO power

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Good gas tank

BEAST

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 5 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Antonio Luna!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 6 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Robert Higgs!
The judges for this bout are Peter Branson, David Hoff and Sandra Marshall.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Luna throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Luna stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Luna wants it to stay on the feet.
Luna moves out of range as Higgs throws a body kick.
Luna misses with a hook. Higgs ducked under it nicely.
Luna misses with a hook.
Donk. Luna catches Higgs right on the button with a cross.
Higgs closes this distance looking for a takedown but Luna circles away.
Nice defenses there by Higgs.
Higgs throws out a loose jab but Luna uses good head movement to avoid it.
We've been informed that Higgs has been sparring a lot of Muay Thai in the buildup to this fight so let's see if that has an impact on the result.

Higgs moves into the clinch successfully.
Higgs tries to pull guard but Luna holds him up against the cage and eventually Higgs drops back down to his feet.
Antonio Luna has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Robert Higgs.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Luna gets through Higgs's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Higgs tries to pull guard but Luna holds him up against the cage and eventually Higgs drops back down to his feet.
Luna lands a shot to the body.
Higgs jumps guard but Luna stands there with Higgs around his waist. Higgs gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Higgs jumps guard but Luna turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.

That's one minute gone in the round.
A hook to the body from Luna.
Luna lands a body shot.
Higgs looks winded!
Luna scores with a shot to the side of Higgs's head.
Higgs tries to pull guard but Luna forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Luna creates some distance for himself and unleashes a massive uppercut that sends Higgs's eyes rolling into the back of his head! Higgs drops to his knees and Luna pours it on with more strikes until the referee steps in to end the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:27 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Antonio Luna!
Antonio Luna retains his middleweight title!
Antonio Luna decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.