GCF Inauguration PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Martin Collin (ranked 5812 p4p, 418 weight class) and Piotr Witczak (ranked 4267 p4p, 368 weight class). Martin Collin had a look across the cage there at his opponent. He definitely means business

Collin
vs
Witczak

210 cm
25
270 lbs
0 - 1 - 0

180 cm
25
242 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Self confident

BJJ Blue Belt
Decent boxing
Determined

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Hilo, Martin Collin!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Piotr Witczak!
The judges for this bout are Topper Green, Hugh Johnson and Ben Watson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Witczak gets a clinch.
Witczak working hard to break the clinch.
Collin keeps control of Witczak as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks.
Collin content to slow the pace in the clinch.
Witczak blocks a knee to the body. He'll have a nicely bruised forearm in the morning.
Collin wants a takedown but no success here.
Collin dodges an elbow strike from Witczak.

Collin breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Collin misses with a body kick.

Collin tries to keep at a distance but Witczak has taken the fight into the clinch.
Witczak is trying to drag Collin to the mat but Collin just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Collin manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back.
Witczak is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Witczak postures up as if he's going to throw some strikes but drops back for an ankle! Collin is in big trouble! He looks ready to tap! But no, he's escaped and dives on top of Witczak, into his guard.

Collin stopping the sweep attempt from Witczak.
Witczak not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Collin throwing strikes but missing.
Collin trying to control the position from guard on top but Witczak is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Collin is breathing heavily.

That's two 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.
Witczak throws a couple of weedy looking strikes off his back.
Witczak looking for a sweep. Not yet Witczak, not yet.
Witczak is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Collin distracts Witczak with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Collin trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Witczak can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Collin controls the pace.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Witczak fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Collin avoids it really well and circles away.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Collin throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Witczak's waist but Witczak gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Collin off to one side.

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

Witczak sneaks out the side door and pushes Collin away - he's back to his feet. The crowd show their appreciation for the escape.

Witczak rushes Collin and presses him up against the cage.

Witczak pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Collin doesn't manage to clinch there - Witczak circles away.

Witczak closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
The fighters are starting to get sweaty, which will make takedowns a bit more tricky.
A frustrated look appears on Collin's face as he tries to break the clinch.
Collin is trying to break the clinch but Witczak is controlling him.

Witczak pulls guard effortlessly.
Collin tries to stand but Witczak is controlling from the bottom.

Collin got a little sloppy there for a moment and Witczak has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Collin has managed to get both his arms back between Witczak's legs - danger averted.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Collin trying to control the position from guard on top but Witczak is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Witczak scrambles and gets back to his feet.
Witczak shoots in looking for a takedown but Collin manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Witczak's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Martin Collin has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Piotr Witczak.
Witczak fails with the takedown.
Collin shoots in looking for a takedown but Witczak manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Collin's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.

Witczak drives through and clinches with Collin against the cage.
Witczak tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Collin jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Witczak walks away with a smile on his face. Collin gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

The fighters circle momentarily. Witczak darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Witczak scores with a nice strike.
Martin Collin seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Collin pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Witczak shoots for a double leg takedown but Collin sprawls well. He's pushed Witczak's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Witczak defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Collin.
Witczak is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Witczak fails with the takedown.
Collin with a lazy takedown attempt
enabling Witczak to counter with a crisp jab.
Witczak is trying hard to land a takedown here. Collin sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Martin Collin has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Piotr Witczak.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Witczak shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Collin pinned against the cage. Collin gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Witczak scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nice takedown defense from Collin. No joy for Witczak on that attempt.
Witczak throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Collin's waist but Collin gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Witczak off to one side.
Collin doesn't succeed with the takedown

and Witczak holds on and brings the fighters into a clinch.
Collin has Witczak pressed against the cage, preventing Witczak from circling away and getting back to striking at range.
Witczak tries to pull guard but Collin won't allow it.
Witczak changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Collin fights it off and pushes away nicely.

Collin shoots in and bounces Witczak off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
Collin trying to control the position from guard on top but Witczak is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Collin preventing the sweep.

Witczak throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Witczak striking off his back but it's not causing Collin any problems.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Witczak has butterfly guard. He's looking to stand up here. He pushes Collin off him and springs to his feet nicely. The crowd applauds.
Witczak moves out of range as Collin strikes.
Collin slaps away a takedown attempt from Witczak, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Witczak tries for a takedown but Collin sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.

Collin shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Witczak manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.

Witczak kicks Collin off and gets to his feet.
Witczak has a takedown stuffed.
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!
Collin throws a nice head kick!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Witczak shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Collin but Collin pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Collin fails with the takedown.

Witczak rushes Collin and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Witczak is trying to force a seperation but Collin has the dominant position.
Witczak has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Witczak wants to push off and get back to the center of the mat but Collin has him pressed against the cage.
Collin wants a takedown but no success here.
Collin has Witczak pressed against the cage, preventing Witczak from circling away and getting back to striking at range.

Witczak ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Witczak no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard.
Witczak tries to land a sweep but no joy.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Piotr Witczak showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!

Collin misses with a takedown attempt - Witczak sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.

Witczak moves into range and clinches up with Collin.
A short right from Witczak.
Witczak tries to pull guard but Collin won't allow it.
Collin is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Witczak gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Witczak wants a takedown but no success here.
Some stalling of biblical proportions here from Witczak.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Witczak is trying to drag Collin to the mat but Collin just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Martin Collin has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Piotr Witczak.

Witczak pulls Collin into guard.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Witczak is trying to control the position but Collin postures up.
Collin wants to control from the top but Witczak keeps moving.
Collin stopping the sweep attempt from Witczak.
Witczak trying to control the position here.
Witczak controls Collin momentarily but Collin frees himself.
Collin wanted to stand there but Witczak had control of the position.

Collin stands up and waves to Witczak to follow him.

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.
Collin displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Witczak.
Collin scores with the left hand. Witczak knows he should have avoided that one.
Collin throws a series of punches but Witczak avoids them all with ease.
Collin keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Collin tries to clinch but Witczak moves out of range.
Witczak blocks a head kick by Collin.
Witczak shoots in and drives through. Collin sprawls well.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Witczak shoots in for a takedown but Collin shows good takedown defense.
Collin shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Collin will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Witczak is trying hard to land a takedown here. Collin sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Collin throws a wild body kick that Witczak sees coming a mile off.
No luck for Witczak with that takedown attempt.
Nice takedown defense from Collin. No joy for Witczak on that attempt.
Collin closes the distance and clinches up with Witczak, looking for a takedown. Collin pushes Witczak against the cage but Witczak circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.

Witczak gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Collin preventing the sweep.
Collin will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Collin controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Witczak not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Collin chips away with some ground and pound.
Witczak working a defensive guard here.
Collin is looking to work some ground and pound but Witczak has wrist control.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Martin Collin has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Piotr Witczak is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Witczak doesn't do any damage with a couple of strikes from the bottom.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.

And that's the end of the fight!
Martin Collin showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Witczak has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Topper Green scores the fight 28:29
Judge Hugh Johnson scores the fight 28:29
Judge Ben Watson scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Piotr Witczak!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
36%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Dawid Malczynski (ranked 5676 p4p, 536 weight class) and Randy Ortiz (ranked 4557 p4p, 485 weight class). Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Malczynski
vs
Ortiz

190 cm
21
170 lbs
0 - 1 - 0

170 cm
22
175 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid boxing
Cuts easily

Decent wrestler
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 0 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Dawid Malczynski!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of New York, Randy Ortiz!
The judges for this bout are Ben Hemmingworth, Summer Carpenter and Bruno Hogan.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Malczynski moves into range and connects with a jab.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Ortiz.
As Ortiz looks to move away, Malczynski throws a big counter combo but Ortiz just gets out of the way.
Malczynski misses with a jab, cross combination.
The sound of bone on bone echoes around the arena as Ortiz checks a leg kick.
Ortiz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Malczynski counters with a straight right hand.
Ortiz looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Malczynski is fending him off so far but Ortiz persists. Nope, Malczynski circles away and we're back to standing.
Dawid Malczynski has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Randy Ortiz.
Ortiz takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Ortiz fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Malczynski avoids it really well and circles away.

Malczynski clinches up with Ortiz and pushes him back against the cage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ortiz drops down looking for an ankle pick but Malczynski pulls his leg out and moves away.
Ortiz shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Malczynski pinned against the cage. Malczynski gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ortiz has a takedown stuffed.
Ortiz shoots in but Malczynski avoids the takedown attempt easily.

Ortiz clinches up with Malczynski and pushes him back against the cage.

Ortiz works for the underhooks and manages to get a trip takedown into guard.
Malczynski wants to stand and escape but Ortiz is having none of it.
Ortiz's corner is telling him to maintain position.

Malczynski is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Ortiz is aware though and is defending well.
Malczynski is looking to stand up but Ortiz isn't so interested in that idea.
Malczynski looking to control.
Malczynski looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Ortiz content to stall in guard here.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Malczynski darts in looking for a takedown but Ortiz gets double underhooks and turns Malczynski into the cage.
Ortiz is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Ortiz tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Malczynski swivels and escapes.

Malczynski closes the distance and clinches.
Malczynski is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Ortiz looks winded!
Malczynski is trying to push Ortiz away but Ortiz has him pressed against the cage, so he's going nowhere.
Malczynski gets underhooks to prevent Ortiz's takedown attempt.
Malczynski tries to break free but Ortiz pushes him back against the cage.

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

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Ortiz is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.

Malczynski looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Malczynski will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Malczynski holds on and takes a little breather.
Ortiz controls from within his opponent's guard.
Malczynski looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Malczynski working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Ortiz.
Malczynski is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Malczynski really does look like a pencil wearing a pair of gloves. Let's hope he has a gameplan to suit that ridiculous body shape.
Ortiz controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Ortiz should think about turning a few of those tyres round his middle into muscle if he wants people to take him seriously as an athlete.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.

Ortiz darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Ortiz not doing much here.
Malczynski is trying to get back to full guard.
Well, if Ortiz 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 crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Malczynski gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Ortiz misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Ortiz jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Malczynski walks away with a smile on his face. Ortiz gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.

Malczynski gets tackled into the cage by Ortiz. Ortiz maintains the clinch.

Ortiz has Malczynski pressed up against the cage. He's trying to work for a single leg takedown. Ortiz pulls back from the cage and twists to the side, sending Malczynski tumbling to the mat - Ortiz dives into Malczynski's guard.
Ortiz controls from within his opponent's guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ortiz is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Malczynski trying to keep a closed guard but Ortiz is proving a slippery customer.
Malczynski is working an open guard here, looking to improve his position. No doubt that will leave him open to counters but at least he's being more offensive.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ortiz controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Malczynski is trying to control the position but Ortiz postures up.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Ortiz stopping the sweep attempt from Malczynski.
Ortiz prevents Malczynski from getting back to his feet.
Randy Ortiz has got the better of the ground game so far.
Ortiz is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Ortiz lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Malczynski can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Ortiz controls the pace.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Malczynski takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Malczynski appears to be looking for a counter takedown.

Ortiz fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Malczynski to the ground. Ortiz is now in Malczynski's guard.
Ortiz controlling from the top position.
Malczynski is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move.

Ortiz makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Ortiz.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Ortiz can do anything to dispel that myth.
Ortiz wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Malczynski pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Ortiz is keeping the position for now.
Malczynski looking to sit in guard and control but Ortiz gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.

The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Ortiz advances position into side control!
Ortiz works a knee to the body and follows up with a nice elbow to the head.
Ortiz is moving around in side control but his primary objective seems to be to maintain the position.
Ortiz scoring with punches from side control.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Ortiz controlling the position from side mount.
Let's hope that Ortiz 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.
Ortiz connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Malczynski some visible discomfort.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Ortiz controlling from side mount.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Randy Ortiz showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!

Ortiz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Malczynski fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Ortiz shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Malczynski defends it nicely.
Ortiz has a takedown stuffed.
Dawid Malczynski has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Randy Ortiz.

Ortiz gets a double leg takedown into Malczynski's guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ortiz is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Ortiz preventing the sweep.

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

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ortiz postures up and lands a big shot to Malczynski's brow.
Ortiz content to stall in guard here.
Malczynski avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Ortiz controls from within his opponent's guard.

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.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Ortiz fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.

Ortiz closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Ortiz takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Ortiz is pausing for a moment. What's he doing? It looks like he's clearing his nose. Oh dude! He's shot a load of snot all down Malczynski's shoulder. That is not cool.
Malczynski wants to control but Ortiz postures up.
Ortiz in side control lands a decent elbow.
Malczynski manages to land a sweep and he's now on top! Lovely Jiu Jitsu!
Malczynski is looking to take a break and control but Ortiz is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Ortiz is looking to improve his position.
It looks like Malczynski is going to stand back up.
Malczynski is keen to just control but Ortiz is a slippery customer.
Ortiz gets back to full guard.

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.
Ortiz is trying to keep Malczynski in close.
Ortiz wants to stand but Malczynski is controlling the position.
Ortiz looking to hit a scissor sweep but Malczynski is one step ahead there.
Malczynski trying to control the position from guard on top but Ortiz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Randy Ortiz.
I think Ortiz has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ben Hemmingworth scores the fight 28:29
Judge Summer Carpenter scores the fight 29:28
Judge Bruno Hogan scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by split decision... Randy Ortiz!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
28%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Tim Laret (ranked 4868 p4p, 450 weight class) and Cristian Eriksen (ranked 4399 p4p, 434 weight class). Both fighters really staring each other down here, as Cristian Eriksen enters the cage!

Laret
vs
Eriksen

185 cm
19
185 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

180 cm
23
193 lbs
4 - 0 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid boxing
Good chin

Good wrestler
Basic striking
Solid 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 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of New York, Tim Laret !
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Hilo, Cristian Eriksen!
The judges for this bout are Winston Howard, Damien Edna and Ben Watson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Eriksen scores with a nice strike.
Eriksen swats away the attempt to clinch by Laret .
Decent striking displayed by Eriksen there.
Laret takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Eriksen digs a good hook to Laret 's body.

Eriksen clinches with his opponent.
Eriksen lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
Eriksen lands with a left to the head.
Still in the clinch, Eriksen scores with a nice short uppercut.
Eriksen lands a shoulder strike.
Laret has had enough of the clinch and is looking to separate.
Laret 's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Eriksen pushes Laret back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Laret is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Eriksen is defending well.
Laret looking to slow down the pace here.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Eriksen.
A frustrated look appears on Laret 's face as he tries to break the clinch.
A short uppercut from Eriksen.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Laret 's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Eriksen lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Eriksen makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Eriksen.
Laret is breathing heavily.
Eriksen scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Eriksen softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Eriksen lands an uppercut.
Laret wants to push off and get back to the center of the mat but Eriksen has him pressed against the cage.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Eriksen as Laret tries to tie him up.
Eriksen lands with a light punch inside.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Eriksen.
A frustrated look appears on Laret 's face as he tries to break the clinch.
Laret takes a shot to the head.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Laret 's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Laret tries to break free but Eriksen pushes him back against the cage.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Eriksen creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Laret 's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Eriksen lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Eriksen lands a nice uppercut.
Laret looks like he'd prefer to be striking at range right now.
Eriksen lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Eriksen lands a body punch.
Eriksen lands with a light punch inside.
Eriksen lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Eriksen lands a shoulder strike.
Laret 's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Eriksen lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Eriksen lands an uppercut.
Eriksen lands with a right to the head.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Eriksen creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Eriksen lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
A short body shot lands from Eriksen as the two fighters clinch.
Eriksen lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Eriksen lands a left hand that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
Nice body punch from Eriksen.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Eriksen lands with a light punch inside.
Eriksen pushes Laret back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Eriksen lands a shoulder strike.
Eriksen is working Laret over against the cage.
A short right from Eriksen.
Eriksen lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
Eriksen lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Eriksen makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
A nice right hand lands inside from Eriksen.
A short left from Eriksen.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Eriksen creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Eriksen lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Laret 's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Eriksen lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Eriksen lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Eriksen.
A shot in the inside from Eriksen.
Eriksen lands a left hand.

Laret is rocked!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Eriksen lands with a left to the head.
A nice left hand lands by Eriksen.
Eriksen lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Eriksen lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Oh Laret is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Eriksen lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
Eriksen lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
A short left from Eriksen.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Eriksen.
Eriksen lands a nice uppercut.
Eriksen lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Eriksen lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Eriksen creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Laret takes a shot to the head.
Eriksen lands a left hand.
Eriksen lands a hook that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Eriksen lands an uppercut.
A short right from Eriksen.
Eriksen lands with a light punch inside.
Eriksen lands with a short shot to the head.
Eriksen scores with a shot to the side of Laret 's head.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Eriksen lands with an overhand left.
Laret seems to have got his legs back now.
Eriksen has been the more effective fighter overall so far.

Eriksen moves into the clinch.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Eriksen.
A head punch on the inside from Laret fails to land.
Eriksen lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
Eriksen lands a right hand that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
Eriksen lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
Eriksen lands with a short shot to the head.
Eriksen lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Eriksen gets through Laret 's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Eriksen lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Laret backwards.
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!
A short right from Eriksen on the inside.
Eriksen lands a big right hand that drops Laret ! The killer instinct kicks in and Eriksen finishes his opponent with a series of strikes from mount. A dominating finish by Eriksen!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:50 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Cristian Eriksen!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
88%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Daniel Atlas (ranked 5026 p4p, 391 weight class) and Mario Price (ranked 5655 p4p, 415 weight class). On his way into the cage it seems that Daniel Atlas has been attacked by a crazed fan! It looks like it might have been the just bleed guy! Luckily Daniel Atlas seems to be OK! I thought that lunatic was in prison!?

Atlas
vs
Price

175 cm
25
155 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

168 cm
18
155 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

Good wrestling
Basic striking
Self confident

BJJ Purple Belt
Counter fighter
Determined

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 Helsinki, Daniel Atlas!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Mario Price!
The judges for this bout are Ron Honeybunn, Darius Henderson and Eliza Hachem.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Atlas bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Atlas wants to stand but Price is controlling his arm.
Price is trying to control Atlas's posture but Atlas avoids it.
Atlas working the ground and pound.
Atlas fails to land a wild elbow strike.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Check out the look on Atlas's face as he threw that strike - that's one determined fighter!
Atlas scoring with punches from side control.
You can see the frustration on Price's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Price is trying to avoid being dragged into an even worse position than he's already in but Atlas is staying active.
Atlas lands some shots froms side control.
Price is looking for a sweep.
Atlas connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Price some visible discomfort.
Atlas remains in side control and seems content to stay there. It's a versatile position from which he can work both strikes and submissions, whilst maintaining that control, so maybe he'll sit here for a while.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Price taking a bit of punishment here - Atlas scoring with strikes.
Atlas is chipping away with strikes.
Price on the wrong end of some ground and pound.
Atlas working the ground and pound from side control.

Price is rocked!
Atlas lands a decent elbow from side control.
Price is still in real trouble! Can Atlas finish him?
Price trying to remain calm as Atlas controls from the top position.
Price is trying to control Atlas's posture but Atlas avoids it.
Price seems to have recovered his senses.
A lull in the action here as Atlas stalls from top position.
Atlas scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Price to see if he's OK.
Price can't do much from the bottom here.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Price is trying to improve his position.
Atlas scores with punches from side control.
Atlas lands a nice forearm strike.
Price is trying to improve his position.
Atlas in side control lands a decent elbow.
Price takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.
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!
Atlas working the head with strikes.
Atlas scoring with punches and elbows.
Atlas scoring with punches from side control.
Atlas cracks Price with a big elbow. Oh, he's hurt! Atlas immediately mounts and start dropping bombs! Price is done! The referee jumps in and saves him from any more punishment - a quick and decisive finish by Atlas!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Daniel Atlas!

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 lightweight MMA rules bout between Richard Wakeling (ranked 3934 p4p, 411 weight class) and Corey Bent (ranked 5620 p4p, 481 weight class). Richard Wakeling looks tired to me. Hopefully he has got enough gas left in the tank to put in a good performance.

Wakeling
vs
Bent

178 cm
25
158 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

170 cm
18
158 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Very strong

BJJ White Belt
Brawler
Determined

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 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of New York, Richard Wakeling!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Corey Bent!
The judges for this bout are Topper Green, Skip Squint and Darius Henderson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Wakeling tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Bent throws a right and a left that Wakeling avoids nicely.

Bent looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Wakeling!
Bent taking a breather here.
Wakeling is pushing Bent's head away, looking to escape. Bent manages to hold on to the position though.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Wakeling is letting Bent control him for a moment.
Wakeling is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Wakeling is looking to work his way out of this bad position but Bent is controlling him well.
Bent lands a few punches from side control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Wakeling explodes and escapes back to his feet! Nice escape there!
Wakeling looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Wakeling pulls out of a head kick attempt.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Bent throws a sloppy head kick and Wakeling moves out of range easily.
Wakeling misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.

Bent closes the distance and pushes Wakeling back into the cage.
Wakeling wants to break free but Bent has control.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Bent landing knees to the head.
Bent lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Bent will no doubt start fighting again in a minute but for now he's just having a little rest, leaning Wakeling up against the cage.
Wakeling is looking to break free of the clinch but Bent has double underhooks.

Bent has clasped his hands together around Wakeling's back... aaand, he's got a takedown into side control. Nicely done.
Wakeling is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Bent has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Wakeling is breathing heavily.
Wakeling is working to avoid the ground and pound but Bent connects with a decent elbow.

Bent tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Wakeling taking a bit of punishment here - Bent scoring with strikes.
Bent scoring with punches and elbows.
Bent working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Bent looks up at the clock and then as Wakeling takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Bent smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
The referee tells the fighters to keep busy.
Bent trying to control the action but Wakeling is working from the bottom.
Bent prevents Wakeling from escaping the position.
Bent looks up at the clock and then as Wakeling takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Bent smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Wakeling takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Bent controlling the position from side mount.
Wakeling takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Bent wants to control but Wakeling is keeping him busy.
Wakeling is trying to escape and get back to his feet.
Bent lands some shots froms side control.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Bent is chipping away with strikes.
Wakeling takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Bent is putting a hurting on Wakeling here, landing some big shots from side control.
Bent cracks Wakeling with a big elbow.
Wakeling is not content to let Bent control the position.
Wakeling takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Wakeling tries to escape but Bent is in control.
Bent cracks Wakeling with an elbow. That is naaassty.
Wakeling is pushing Bent's head away, looking to escape. Bent manages to hold on to the position though.
Wakeling is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Bent scores with a couple of short elbows.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Bent lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Wakeling down.
Wakeling is trying to get back to his feet.
Bent looks up at the clock and then as Wakeling takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Bent smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
Wakeling wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!
Wakeling taking a bit of punishment here - Bent scoring with strikes.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Bent grinds an elbow into Wakeling's temple.
Bent remains in side control and seems content to stay there. It's a versatile position from which he can work both strikes and submissions, whilst maintaining that control, so maybe he'll sit here for a while.
Wakeling wants to get back to his feet but Bent drags him back down.
Wakeling takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Bent is putting a hurting on Wakeling here, landing some big shots from side control.

Wakeling is rocked!
Bent working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
Oh Wakeling is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Bent lands a nice forearm strike.
Bent cracks Wakeling with a big elbow. Oh, he's hurt! Bent immediately mounts and start dropping bombs! Wakeling is done! The referee jumps in and saves him from any more punishment - a quick and decisive finish by Bent!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Corey Bent!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
44%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Rodolfo Moraes (ranked 4509 p4p, 373 weight class) and Szymon Kasprzyk (ranked 4205 p4p, 348 weight class). Rodolfo Moraes had real problems making weight for this fight. After initially coming in at 146.2lbs, he had two hours to make the official fight weight. He made it but it will have taken a lot out of him to cut those extra few pounds. Well, I have no idea who's going to take this one!

Moraes
vs
Kasprzyk

175 cm
25
157 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

178 cm
25
154 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

BJJ Brown Belt
Brawler
Hates pizza

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of New York, Rodolfo Moraes!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Szymon Kasprzyk!
The judges for this bout are Chris Dean, John Mangel and Eliza Hachem.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Moraes gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily

and Kasprzyk holds on and brings the fighters into a clinch.
Moraes is looking to take this one to the mat.

Kasprzyk ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Kasprzyk no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard.
Moraes loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Moraes throws a big right hand that misses.
Moraes working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Moraes postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Kasprzyk wants to stand and escape but Moraes is having none of it.
Kasprzyk is controlling Moraes's posture.
Moraes wants to stand but Kasprzyk is controlling his posture from full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Moraes postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Moraes lands a couple of decent looking shots.

Kasprzyk is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Moraes is aware though and is defending well.
Kasprzyk trying to keep a closed guard but Moraes is proving a slippery customer.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Kasprzyk preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Kasprzyk has momentary wrist control but Moraes slips an elbow through the middle.
Moraes is looking to work some ground and pound but Kasprzyk has wrist control.
Moraes loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Moraes's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Kasprzyk is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Moraes is controlling him.
Moraes is looking to work some ground and pound but Kasprzyk has wrist control.
Kasprzyk avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Moraes in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Moraes missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Moraes missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Kasprzyk avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Moraes working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Moraes postures up in Kasprzyk's guard and throws a big left but Kasprzyk blocks it.
Moraes is looking to work some ground and pound but Kasprzyk has wrist control.
Moraes is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Moraes keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Kasprzyk's head.
Moraes with a flurry of punches that miss.
Moraes scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Moraes throwing strikes from guard but Kasprzyk blocks nicely.
Kasprzyk wants to sweep here but Moraes controlling him for the moment.
Kasprzyk looks winded!

Kasprzyk is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Moraes lands a couple of digs.
Moraes with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Kasprzyk utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Moraes won't allow Kasprzyk to sweep him here.
Moraes connects with a couple of short punches.
Moraes distracts Kasprzyk with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Moraes trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Moraes throws a big elbow that misses.
Moraes throwing strikes from guard but Kasprzyk blocks nicely.
Moraes wants to stand but Kasprzyk has a closed guard, so he can't escape.
Moraes with a flurry of punches that miss.
Moraes makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Moraes with a flurry of punches that miss.
Moraes scoring with some ground and pound.
Moraes throwing strikes from guard but Kasprzyk blocks nicely.

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

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Moraes is looking to stand up but Kasprzyk won't let him.
Moraes with a flurry of punches that miss.
Moraes trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Kasprzyk looking for a sweep. Not yet Kasprzyk, not yet.
Kasprzyk preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Moraes throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Moraes is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Moraes 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.
Moraes trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Moraes won't allow Kasprzyk to sweep him here.
Moraes postures up.
Moraes throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Kasprzyk works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Kasprzyk avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Moraes dives in and grabs Kasprzyk's left leg, looking for a takedown. Kasprzyk pushes down on Moraes's head and hops out.
Nice takedown defense from Kasprzyk. No joy for Moraes on that attempt.
Kasprzyk defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Moraes.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Rodolfo Moraes. That's going to take a lot out of him.

A momentary lapse in concentration from Moraes enables Kasprzyk to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Moraes manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Rodolfo Moraes overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Kasprzyk chips away with some ground and pound.
Kasprzyk is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Moraes has a closed guard, preventing Kasprzyk from standing up.
Kasprzyk trying to control the position from guard on top but Moraes is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Kasprzyk is posturing up here but Moraes has hold of an arm and he's gone for an armbar! Kasprzyk tries to roll out but it's too tight and Kasprzyk has to tap! Slick submission there by Moraes!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:58 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Rodolfo Moraes!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
33%

Main event

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Syd Sydney (ranked 4086 p4p, 457 weight class) and George Diaz (ranked 2946 p4p, 369 weight class). This should be fireworks!

Sydney
vs
Diaz

178 cm
25
177 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

187 cm
18
178 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
Very quick

BJJ Blue 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 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Syd Sydney!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Montreal, George Diaz!
The judges for this bout are Francis DeMontford, Donatello Bradman and Ben Watson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Diaz is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Diaz closes the distance but Sydney moves to the side

and Sydney counters with a single leg into guard. Diaz didn't expect that.
We could do with one of the fighters taking the initiative a bit more on the ground - they're both waiting to capitalize on a mistake.
Sydney stands up over Diaz, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Sydney cracks Diaz with a solid left hand.

Diaz looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Sydney is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Diaz has momentary wrist control but Sydney slips an elbow through the middle.
Sydney makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Sydney lands a couple of digs.
Sydney is in close to Diaz's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Sydney lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Sydney's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Sydney working some strikes from top position.
Diaz looks winded!

That's one minute gone in the round.
Diaz has momentary wrist control but Sydney slips an elbow through the middle.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Sydney's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Sydney distracts Diaz with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Sydney content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Sydney working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Diaz's head.
Sydney keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Diaz's head.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Sydney scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Sydney lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Sydney working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Diaz's head.
Sydney with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Sydney cracks Diaz with a solid left hand.

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

Diaz is rocked!

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Sydney working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Sydney lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Diaz is still in real trouble! Can Sydney finish him?
Sydney makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Sydney stands up over Diaz, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Sydney is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Sydney arches his back and unloads with a massive left and a right! Diaz's eyes roll back into his head, he's out cold! The ref dives in to stop the fight - wow, they were hard shots!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:30 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Syd Sydney!