Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 50
Date: Jan 27, 2017

#R1#
Jaksinen throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Jaksinen slaps away a takedown attempt from Soderberg, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Soderberg throws a leg kick that is checked
and Jaksinen counters with a straight right hand.
Jaksinen tries to clinch up.
Espo Jaksinen seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Soderberg takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Soderberg shoots in but no luck this time.
Soderberg slips a straight right by Jaksinen.
A quick step to the side and Soderberg tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Jaksinen throws a good cross that connects.
Soderberg misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Rufus Soderberg. That's going to take a lot out of him.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jaksinen moves out of range as Soderberg strikes.
Jaksinen pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Soderberg feinted with a counter takedown.
Jaksinen lands a vicious shot with the stealth of a sniper and the strength of a viper. Are vipers that strong? I can think of lots of things that are stronger than a viper - not many rhyme with sniper though. #T1#
Jaksinen lands a jab-cross combination. #CL2#
Jaksinen has managed to clinch.
Soderberg tries to pull guard but Jaksinen won't allow it. #BC#
Soderberg escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Jaksinen lands a body shot.
Soderberg looks to land a right hand but Jaksinen moved out of range.
Soderberg throws a body punch but Jaksinen moves out of range.
Jaksinen tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Soderberg was well out of range. Poor timing from Jaksinen.
Jaksinen misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Jaksinen throws a lazy head kick #TD#
and Soderberg counters with a takedown into side control. #ES2#
Jaksinen bucks up and manages to escape back to his feet!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Soderberg looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Soderberg lands a nice hook to Jaksinen's body. Jaksinen takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Soderberg misses the jab.
Jaksinen throws a big counter head kick but Soderberg avoids it with no problem.#T2#
A head kick misses from Jaksinen.
Jaksinen throws a sloppy head kick and Soderberg moves out of range easily.
Soderberg ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Jaksinen throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Soderberg on the side of the head.
Jaksinen goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
Jaksinen fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Soderberg on the side of the head.
Jaksinen keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Jaksinen misses with a head kick.
A head kick by Jaksinen misses
and Soderberg counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
A punch lands to the side of Jaksinen 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Soderberg throws a body kick that digs right into the meat.
Soderberg looks to throw the jab but Jaksinen is out of range. #T3#
Soderberg fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Soderberg uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Jaksinen.
Jaksinen keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Jaksinen scores with a decent looking hook.
Soderberg blocks a head kick by Jaksinen. #KD2#
Jaksinen lands a big head kick that sends Soderberg tumbling to the mat! Jaksinen takes a step backwards and waves Soderberg back to his feet - he wants the finish!#ROC2#
Soderberg is rocked!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Soderberg misses the shot to the body.
Oh Soderberg is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Jaksinen stuns Soderberg with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Soderberg avoids the head kick by Jaksinen.
Jaksinen lunges in with a left hook that violently twists Soderberg head around and knocks him out cold! Jaksinen hops onto the cage and yells out at the top of his lungs - Yeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaah! They're showing the replay on the big screens now; that was nasty! I hope one of the photographers got a good shot of it.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:54 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Espo Jaksinen!
Our winner, Espo Jaksinen, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.
Rufus Soderberg was interviewed post fight and said 'I'm not done. I'm not done. '.

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 49
Date: Jan 20, 2017

#R1#
Sullivan misses with a takedown
and Soderberg counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Sullivan thinking.
Soderberg scores with a punch to the head.
Sullivan looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Soderberg is fending him off so far but Sullivan persists. Nope, Soderberg circles away and we're back to standing.
Soderberg swings for the body but Sullivan moves out of range.
Soderberg looks to score with a jab to the body but Sullivan is just out of range.
Soderberg connects with a high kick. #CUT2#
It looks like Jeremy Sullivan has been cut.
Sullivan has a takedown stuffed.
Soderberg changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Jeremy Sullivan. That's going to take a lot out of him.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sullivan fails with the takedown
and Soderberg counters with a three punch combo that has Sullivan backing up. Sullivan nods at Soderberg to acknowledge the strikes.#TD#
Sullivan shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Soderberg's guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Sullivan is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound. #T1#
Sullivan looking to pass the guard.
Sullivan won't allow Soderberg to sweep him here.
Sullivan postures up in Soderberg's guard and throws a big left but Soderberg blocks it.
Sullivan has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Sullivan working some strikes from top position.#SUB2#
Soderberg has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Sullivan can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Soderberg working a defensive guard here.
Sullivan distracts Soderberg with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Soderberg keeping moving, preventing Sullivan from controlling successfully.
Sullivan chips away with some ground and pound.#SUB2#
Soderberg looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Sullivan passes into side control.
Sullivan scores with punches from side control. #T2##SUB#
Sullivan tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Sullivan has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #SUB#
Sullivan is trying to get an arm triangle but Soderberg is defending well.
Soderberg parries the strikes from Sullivan easily there. Sullivan is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Soderberg to escape.
Soderberg tries to bench press Sullivan off him but Sullivan keeps the position.
Sullivan lands a decent elbow from side control.
Sullivan 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.
Soderberg is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Soderberg is still trying to improve position.
Sullivan in side control lands a decent elbow.
Sullivan wants to lay and pray for a moment but Soderberg keeps working.
Soderberg is trying to improve his position.#T3#
Sullivan working the head with strikes.
Sullivan connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Soderberg some visible discomfort.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Soderberg wants to control but Sullivan postures up.
Soderberg takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.#SUB#
Sullivan is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Soderberg is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Sullivan trying to control the action but Soderberg is working from the bottom.
Sullivan lands a decent elbow from side control.
Sullivan scoring with punches from side control. #T4##SUB#
Sullivan is trying to get an arm triangle but Soderberg is defending well.
Soderberg can't do much from the bottom here.
Soderberg takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.
Soderberg is trying to control Sullivan's posture but Sullivan avoids it.
Soderberg tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Sullivan wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control. #SUB#
Sullivan is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Soderberg is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Soderberg is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Sullivan off and has taken his back!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
I really don't envy Sullivan right now.
Soderberg struggling to land strikes to the head as Sullivan covers up.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jeremy Sullivan dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Jeremy Sullivan's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.
#R2#
A slow jab from Soderberg misses its intended target.
The fight stays on the outside here - Sullivan looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Sullivan avoids a kick to the body.
Sullivan appears to be looking for a counter takedown.#CL#
Sullivan closes the distance and pushes Soderberg back into the cage.
Sullivan fails to pull guard. #TD2#
Soderberg ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Soderberg no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard.
Soderberg 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.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Sullivan's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sullivan preventing the sweep.
Sullivan sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Sullivan scoring with punches to the head and body. #T1#
Soderberg keeping moving, preventing Sullivan from controlling successfully. #SUB2#
Soderberg looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Sullivan is pushing down on Soderberg's leg trying to pass to half guard. Soderberg is fighting to maintain full guard but Sullivan has managed to sneak the leg through.
Sullivan is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Soderberg can do to turn this around?
Sullivan seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Soderberg does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #SUB2#
Soderberg looking for submissions off his back.
Sullivan working Soderberg over with strikes.
Sullivan takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Sullivan trying to control the action but Soderberg is working from the bottom.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
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. Sullivan connects with a nice short shot to Soderberg's temple.
Soderberg is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Sullivan scores with a couple of nice shots.
Sullivan looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Soderberg is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Sullivan scores with a couple of nice shots.#ROC#
Soderberg is rocked!#T2#
Soderberg trying to control but Sullivan postures up.
Soderberg is still in real trouble! Can Sullivan finish him?#SUB2#
Soderberg looking for submissions off his back.
Soderberg seems to have recovered his senses.#SUB#
Sullivan is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
Sullivan performing his best blanket impression for a moment.
Sullivan 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.
Soderberg is trying to get back to full guard.
Soderberg on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Sullivan controlling the position here and throwing strikes from the top. Nice elbow lands there... and another... and another... oh, Soderberg is out! Sullivan gets to his feet and admires his work - nice finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:55 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Jeremy Sullivan!
A victorious Jeremy Sullivan thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.
Rufus Soderberg was interviewed post fight and said 'I'm not done. I'm not done. '.

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 47
Date: Jan 07, 2017

#R1#
Soderberg gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
No joy there for Booger, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Booger misses with a wild body shot.
Booger displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Soderberg throws out the jab.
Booger changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.#TD#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Soderberg enables Booger to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Soderberg manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Booger stands and throws Soderberg's legs to the side, diving into side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Soderberg tries to improve position but can't.
Soderberg can't do much from the bottom here.
Booger is putting a hurting on Soderberg here, landing some big shots from side control.
Soderberg is trying to improve his position.
Soderberg wants to control but Booger postures up.
Booger lands some shots froms side control.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Soderberg is looking to regain half guard here but Booger keeps moving and retains side control.
Soderberg wants to control but Booger postures up.
Soderberg is looking to regain half guard here but Booger keeps moving and retains side control.
You can see the frustration on Soderberg's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#T1#
Booger cracks Soderberg with an elbow. That is naaassty.
Booger landing with strikes to the head and body from side control.
Soderberg takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Booger in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Booger lands an elbow.
Booger throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Soderberg takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.
Soderberg is looking to regain half guard here but Booger keeps moving and retains side control.
Booger lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Soderberg down.
Soderberg tries to bench press Booger off him but Booger keeps the position.
Booger tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
Booger lands some shots froms side control.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Soderberg is looking to reverse the position.
Booger scoring with punches from side control.
Booger lands an elbow. #T2#
Booger is putting a hurting on Soderberg here, landing some big shots from side control. #ROC#
Soderberg is rocked!
A big shot lands for Booger! That's hurt Soderberg! Will he recover? Booger fires away with more strikes and the referee has to step in to stop the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:23 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Chris Booger!
A relieved looking Chris Booger thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.
Rufus Soderberg was interviewed post fight and said 'I'm not done. I'm not done. '.

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 42
Date: Nov 26, 2016

#R1#
Barnard connects with a leg kick. Soderberg looked like he was expecting something else and didn't defend it.
Barnard lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Soderberg circles away quickly and effectively.
Soderberg is trying hard to land a takedown here. Barnard sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Barnard keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Soderberg.
Barnard throws a counter combo.
Barnard swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Soderberg quickly followed up with a counter body kick but doesn't connect.
Barnard has been spending a lot of time sparring his boxing in the run up to the fight, trying to sharpen up those hands and look for a knockout.
Soderberg jabs Barnard right on the nose. Barnard blinks but takes it well.
Soderberg catches Barnard with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Soderberg lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Soderberg steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Barnard.
Barnard with a nice cross.
A shot to the liver by Soderberg. Beautiful body shot.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Barnard swinging wildly here.
Barnard stuffs the takedown.
Barnard looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Nice shot by Barnard.#T1#
Barnard scores with a nice one two combo and darts back out of range to avoid anything coming in the opposite direction. #CUT2#
It looks like Rufus Soderberg has been cut.
Barnard throws a left and a right that both miss #TD#
and Soderberg counters with a shoot takedown. Barnard fights it but they end up in guard.
Barnard seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Soderberg's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Soderberg throws a strike but Barnard rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVB#
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Soderberg not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Barnard is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long. #SUB#
Soderberg is looking for a triangle but Barnard pushes his legs off easily. #T2#
Soderberg is trying to control the position but Barnard postures up.
Soderberg is really struggling to control Barnard but he's trying to hold on to the position.
Soderberg is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Barnard is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.
Barnard passes into half guard.
Barnard content to sit in half guard and control for a moment.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#SU2#
Barnard stands up from half guard... He's had enough of that ground malarky for the time being.
Barnard throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Soderberg fails with a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Rufus Soderberg. That's going to take a lot out of him.#T3#
Soderberg takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Soderberg digs a good hook to Barnard's body.
Soderberg is on the wrong end of a nice combination from Barnard.
Soderberg misses with a two punch combination.
Horrible takedown attempt by Soderberg or perhaps it was just good defense by Barnard, which made it look bad.
Barnard closes the distance and lands a one-two.
Barnard uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Soderberg.
Soderberg throws a body punch but Barnard moves out of range. #T4#
Barnard will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Good leg kick by Barnard there. It's the ones that make that thud noise that hurt and that was an almighty thud.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Barnard stalks Soderberg and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Soderberg's face. Soderberg staggers backwards, shaken.
Soderberg takes a swing at Barnard's ribcage but misses.
Barnard fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Soderberg manages to avoid it.
Kobus Barnard is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Barnard throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Soderberg.
A punch combination from Barnard misses.
Soderberg throwing a counter right hand but Barnard manages to avoid it.
Barnard thows a left - swing and a miss!
It looked like Soderberg was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Barnard.
Barnard shuffles to his left behind two crisp jabs. Soderberg eats them both and turns towards Barnard to reposition himself and eats a stinging right hand-left hook combo.
Soderberg slips under a jab from Barnard.
A big right from Soderberg misses.
It seemed like Barnard was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kobus Barnard dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Rufus Soderberg's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.
#R2#
Barnard misses with the combination.
Barnard has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
A right-left combo lands from Barnard.
A looping hook to the body misses from Soderberg. Barnard does a little dance to reset his feet.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Barnard! But no joy.
Soderberg shoots and misses
and Barnard counters with a straight right hand.
Soderberg swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Barnard feints a counter leg kick.
Barnard throws a nice looking combination but Soderberg bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Barnard throws a head kick that half lands.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Barnard thuds a left hand into Soderberg's body.
Barnard pushes forward with a 1-2 combination that forces Soderberg back to the cage. Barnard follows up with a solid lead hook to the liver.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Left hook, right uppercut from Barnard.
Soderberg shoots for a takedown but Barnard saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.#T1#
Barnard will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Soderberg misses with a wild body shot.
Barnard just misses with a punch to the body.
Barnard misses with a body shot.
A combination from Barnard does no damage.
Soderberg is looking to wear down Barnard with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Soderberg slips under a jab.
Soderberg throws a big shot that misses.
Soderberg catches Barnard with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Soderberg sizes up Barnard with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Barnard slaps away a takedown attempt from Soderberg, before circling back to the center of the mat.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Rufus Soderberg. That's going to take a lot out of him.#T2#
Soderberg throws a lazy uppercut
and Barnard counters with a nice body shot.
The fighters are starting to get sweaty, which will make takedowns a bit more tricky.
Barnard fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Soderberg has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Barnard keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Soderberg shoots in but Barnard avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Barnard digs a good body shot into Soderberg's ribs.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Barnard swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Soderberg appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Barnard looks to land a combination. Soderberg sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Soderberg fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
It seemed like Barnard was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Soderberg misses with a left hand
and Barnard counters with a nice leg kick. #T3#
Barnard looks to land a left hand but Soderberg moved out of range nicely.
Barnard throws a nice looking combination but Soderberg bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Barnard catches Soderberg with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Soderberg ducks right into an uppercut from Barnard.
Kobus Barnard seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Soderberg slips a jab and a cross from Barnard.
A nice leg kick lands there from Barnard.
Barnard catches Soderberg with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Barnard lands with a cross.
Soderberg fails to land with a series of punches.
Soderberg looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Barnard swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Soderberg showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Barnard. #T4#
Soderberg shoots in looking for a takedown. Barnard tries to sprawl out of it but Soderberg keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Barnard manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Soderberg misses with the combination.
Soderberg throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Barnard sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Soderberg walks into a left hand.
Soderberg misses with a jab to the body
enabling Barnard to counter with a crisp jab.
Barnard lands a jab. Then a cross. Then finally a nice hook to the body. Good work there by Barnard.
Barnard throws a nice looking combination but Soderberg bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Barnard throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kobus Barnard showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Rufus Soderberg's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. This is the final round!
#R3#
Barnard misses with an uppercut.
Soderberg looks to land a right hand but Barnard moved out of range.
Barnard lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Nice shot lands for Barnard.
Barnard moves out of range of the strikes.
Soderberg looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Barnard throws a series of punches but Soderberg moves out of range.
Soderberg appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Soderberg on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Barnard throws a nice looking combination but Soderberg bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Barnard misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Barnard.
Barnard lands a jab. Then a cross. Then finally a nice hook to the body. Good work there by Barnard.#T1#
Barnard slips a jab and a cross from Soderberg.
Barnard moves away from the strike by Soderberg.
Soderberg shoots in for a takedown but Barnard shows good takedown defense.
Barnard lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross. #ROC2#
Soderberg is rocked!
Barnard keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Oh Soderberg is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Barnard throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Soderberg feinted with a counter takedown.
Soderberg seems to have got his legs back now.
Soderberg looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Soderberg has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.
Soderberg misses with a straight left.
Soderberg tries to move into range but Barnard moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Soderberg scores with a leg kick.
Soderberg gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Barnard counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Rufus Soderberg has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Both fighters are breathing heavily.#T2#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Soderberg misses the shot to the body.
Barnard connects with a crisp jab.
Barnard goes for a small jab and connects. Now Barnard goes in closer pressing the issue. Left hook, right straight! Soderberg stumbles back but Barnard runs in with a huge uppercut knocking Soderberg to the ground! What a finish! You have to wonder if Soderberg will ever be the same after a knockout like that.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:19 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Punches). Kobus Barnard!
Jumping up and down and very excited, Kobus Barnard waved his t-shirt featuring Lion Fightwear's logo in front of the cameras.
Rufus Soderberg was interviewed post fight and said 'I'm not done. I'm not done. '.

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 38
Date: Oct 22, 2016

#R1#
A shot to the liver by Soderberg. Beautiful body shot.
Soderberg is looking to land body kicks.
Soderberg tries to bum rush Rusted with a series of wild strikes but Rusted uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Rusted changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Rusted seems to be moving with more speed, compared to his last bout. He must have been working on that in the gym.
Soderberg fails to land the takedown.
Soderberg catches Rusted with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Soderberg throws a hook but Rusted blocks it.
Soderberg looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Rusted misses with a wild body shot.
Soderberg misses with a right hand
and Rusted counters with a nice low kick that buckles Soderberg's knee momentarily.
Soderberg tries to score a power double leg takedown but Rusted sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Soderberg somewhat.
Jethro Rusted has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Rufus Soderberg.#T1#
Rusted scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
Rusted ducks right into an uppercut from Soderberg.
Soderberg stuns Rusted with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Soderberg throws out a loose jab but Rusted uses good head movement to avoid it.
Soderberg throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Soderberg comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Rusted scores with a nice body kick.
Rusted dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Soderberg. That did some damage!
Soderberg takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie. #T2#
Soderberg takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Rusted slips under a jab.
Soderberg swings widly with a right hand
and Rusted counters with a straight right hand.
Rusted lands a nice looking kick to the body. Soderberg takes a step back to recover.
Rusted throws a push kick but Soderberg slaps the foot to one side.
Soderberg changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Rusted scores with a leg kick.
Soderberg fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Rusted on the side of the head.
Rusted throws a sloppy head kick and Soderberg moves out of range easily.
Rusted cracks a nice hook into Soderberg's ribs.
Rusted throws a leg kick but Soderberg sees it coming and checks it nicely.
Soderberg fails with a takedown attempt from distance.#T3#
Soderberg throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Rusted sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Soderberg connects with the punch.
Rusted scores with a leg kick.
Soderberg misses with a jab to the body
and Rusted counters with a nice low kick that buckles Soderberg's knee momentarily.
Soderberg misses with a wild body shot.
Rusted misses with the body kick
and Soderberg counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Rusted throws a nice looking combination but Soderberg bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Rusted moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Rusted uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Soderberg has time to react.
Soderberg throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Rusted stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Rusted scores with a decent looking hook.
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!
Rusted blocks a jab.#T4#
Rusted wants to slow Soderberg down by chopping away at his legs.
Soderberg clobbers Rusted with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Soderberg feints with a shoulder and throws a nice leg kick to Rusted's calf.
Soderberg lands a jab to Rusted's midsection.
Soderberg changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Rusted tries to avoid it but Soderberg manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Rusted to the ground. Rusted escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Soderberg ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Rusted moves away.
Soderberg closes the distance and clinches up with Rusted, looking for a takedown. Soderberg pushes Rusted against the cage but Rusted circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Rusted moves out of range as Soderberg throws a body kick.
Soderberg rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Rusted counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
A nice leg kick lands there from Rusted.
Soderberg pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jethro Rusted dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!
#R2#
Soderberg shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Rusted as he jumps to the side.
Rusted fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Rusted is looking to slow Soderberg down with leg kicks.
Rusted lands a leg kick that knocks Soderberg off balance momentarily.
Soderberg's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.
A head kick by Soderberg misses
and Rusted makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Both these guys seem content to just stand up and trade with eachother but Soderberg might want to think about changing up his gameplan a bit because over the course of the fight, Rusted has got the better of the exchanges.
Soderberg swings widly with a right hand
and Rusted makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Rusted uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Soderberg.
Ouch! a nice leg kick from Rusted, right into the meat. #TD2#
Soderberg fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Rusted to the ground. Soderberg is now in Rusted's guard.
Soderberg wants to control from the top but Rusted keeps moving. #T1##SUB#
Rusted has an omoplata and is looking to use it perhaps as a submission or perhaps to transition. Soderberg is in a bit of discomfort here, but he's managed to free himself and has dived into side control! That didn't work out too well for Rusted.
Soderberg creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Rusted sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Soderberg staying calm.
Soderberg wants to lay and pray for a moment but Rusted keeps working.
Rusted parries the strikes from Soderberg easily there. Soderberg is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Rusted to escape. #T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Soderberg content to control the pace. The referee will try and keep them active though. #SUB2#
Soderberg swings around for an armbar but Rusted sees it coming a mile off and turns beautifully into Soderberg's guard.
Rusted content to stall in guard here.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Soderberg wants to sweep but no luck. #SU#
Rusted gets to his feet - Soderberg follows without any prompting. #T3##TD2#
Soderberg drives through with a takedown into guard.
Soderberg trying to control the position from guard on top but Rusted is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Rusted keeping full guard, as Soderberg tries to pass.
Rusted has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Soderberg working some strikes from top position.
Rusted pulls Soderberg in to control the position. #SUB#
Rusted is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Soderberg defends well.
Soderberg trying to pass the guard. He's being very persistent here but Rusted manages to land a sweep and now he's on top! #REVR##T4#
Soderberg 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.#SUB2#
Soderberg escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Rusted gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Rusted content to stall in guard here.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Soderberg tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Soderberg is trying to keep Rusted in close.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jethro Rusted dominated that second round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!
#R3#
Soderberg on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
Rusted is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Soderberg can do to turn this around?
Rusted throws a push kick but Soderberg slaps the foot to one side.
Soderberg drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Rusted defends it well.
Rusted moves away from the strike by Soderberg.
A combination from Soderberg does no damage.
Soderberg misses with a jab to the body
and Rusted counters with a nice body kick.
Rusted lands a nice looking body shot.
Soderberg shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Rusted as he avoids it easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Rusted cracks the inside of Soderberg's front leg.
Rusted uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Soderberg.
Rusted tries to counter with a takedown but Soderberg is quick to defend against it.
Soderberg takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Rusted moves out of range of the body kick from Soderberg.
Soderberg on the wrong end of a nice jab.#T1#
Rusted misses with a jab to the body
letting Soderberg counter with a right hand.
Rusted connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Soderberg has developed a nice purple lump on his ribcage, as a result of some heavy body kicks from Rusted.
Soderberg takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie.
Soderberg swings for the body but Rusted moves out of range.
A lazy body kick from Soderberg
and Rusted counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Rusted is looking to wear down Soderberg with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
A head kick from Rusted lands but Soderberg takes it in his stride.
A solid body kick from Rusted.
Rusted pulls out of a head kick attempt.
And Soderberg tries to counter it with a takedown but Rusted pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Rusted with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Rusted tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Soderberg was well out of range. Poor timing from Rusted.
Rusted tries a head kick but it misses. #T2#
Soderberg swings widly with a right hand
and Rusted counters with a low kick, right behind Soderberg 's knee.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
A solid leg kick lands there for Rusted.
Rusted connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Soderberg's hands.
Soderberg misses the body punch
and Rusted counters with an inside leg kick.
Rusted lands with a nice body kick.
Soderberg takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Rusted dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Rusted scores with a body shot.
Rusted lands a jab to the head.
Rusted fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.#T3#
Rusted ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Rusted swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Soderberg.
Soderberg looks for a takedown but Rusted sprawls well.
Sloppy strikes from Rusted. Those never looked like landing.
A shot to the liver by Rusted. Beautiful body shot.
Both fighters circling a little - Rusted finishes the exchange with a kick to the body.
Soderberg takes one on the button.
Rusted will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
A shot to the liver by Rusted. Beautiful body shot.#T4#
Rusted thuds a mid kick into his opponent's body. That will wear on Soderberg if he has to take too many more of those.
A left lands for Rusted.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Soderberg throws a hook to the side of Rusted's head but Rusted sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Rusted lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Rusted fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Soderberg has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Rusted throws a nice inside leg kick.
Soderberg misses with a jab to the body
and Rusted counters with a solid body kick.
Soderberg dodges the punch combination from Rusted.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jethro Rusted clearly takes that round.
That's time! Rusted's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.
#R4#
Rusted lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Soderberg throws a jab but it's blocked by Rusted.
Rusted tried to counter with a leg kick but Soderberg avoided it.
Rusted scores with a leg kick.
Horrible takedown attempt by Soderberg or perhaps it was just good defense by Rusted, which made it look bad.
Soderberg takes one on the chin but seems OK.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Rusted thuds his shin into the meat of Soderberg's side.
Rusted thuds his shin into the meat of Soderberg's side.
Rusted fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.#T1#
Rusted tried to score with a low kick but Soderberg checks it.
Soderberg changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Soderberg throws a poor cross that misses
and Rusted counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
A cross from Rusted lands.
Soderberg avoids a kick to the body.
Soderberg with the counter takedown but Rusted avoids it easily.
Soderberg throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
An inside leg kick lands from Rusted.
A leg kick checked by Rusted.
Rusted explodes with a nice body kick and back out of range. Nice work.
Jethro Rusted is winning the standup battle so far.
Soderberg on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
Soderberg is absolutely dripping with sweat - he looks exhausted.
Soderberg throws a sloppy body shot
and Rusted connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
A nice inside leg kick there by Rusted. That's going to slow Soderberg down. #T2#
Rusted wants to slow Soderberg down by chopping away at his legs.
Rusted throws a nice head kick!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Rusted takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Rusted leaves Soderberg with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Rusted jabs Soderberg to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Soderberg throws a predictable looking body shot
and Rusted counters with a nice body kick.
Nice shot lands for Rusted.
Rusted bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Soderberg's head.#T3#
Rusted throws a body kick that digs right into the meat.
Rusted comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Soderberg dodges the punch combination from Rusted.
Rusted cracks the inside of Soderberg's front leg.
Soderberg checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Soderberg on the wrong end of a nice low kick. He's acting like it's no big deal but he doesn't want to take many more of those.
Soderberg has a nice red mark on his side after a thudding body kick by Rusted.
Rusted throws a wild combination but nothing lands. #T4#
Soderberg on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Like a baseball bat into the meat of his leg there - nice leg kick by Rusted.
Soderberg throws a right hand that misses
and Rusted makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Rusted throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
A solid leg kick lands there for Rusted.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Rusted checks the leg kick nicely there.
Rusted looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Soderberg misses with a hook
and Rusted counters with a nice body kick.
Soderberg misses with a wild combination.
Rusted throws a leg kick
and Soderberg counters with a stiff right hand.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jethro Rusted had his way with Rufus Soderberg in that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!
#R5#
Soderberg stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Rusted.
You can see that Soderberg has visibly slowed down as a result of the leg kicks
Soderberg throws a half hearted mid kick.
Rusted misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Rusted moves away from the strike by Soderberg.
Soderberg throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Rusted counters with a right hand to the body.
Rusted wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Soderberg tries for a takedown but Rusted circles away easily
and Rusted counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Rusted lands with an uppercut that bounces Soderberg off the cage and back into range.
Soderberg is wobbling all over the place through exhaustion. Will he make it to the final bell?
Rusted wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Rusted scores with a kick to the midsection.#T1#
Rusted pushes Soderberg away with a front kick.
Rusted lands a nice shot to the body.
Rusted fakes the leg kick and cracks Soderberg in the body.
Rusted fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Soderberg.
Rusted looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
A head kick from Rusted lands but Soderberg takes it in his stride.
Rusted dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Rusted throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
And Soderberg tries to counter it with a takedown but Rusted pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Rusted throws a front kick that sends Soderberg stumbling back into the cage.
Soderberg avoids the body shot from Rusted.
Soderberg drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Rusted defends it well.
Rufus Soderberg has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Rusted lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Soderberg misses the body punch
and Rusted counters with a nice low kick that buckles Soderberg's knee momentarily.
Soderberg takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Soderberg takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
An inside leg kick from Rusted misses.
A lazy left from Rusted finds it's target.
A looping hook to the body misses from Rusted. Soderberg does a little dance to reset his feet.
Soderberg swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Rusted digs a good body shot into Soderberg's ribs.
Good exchange - Rusted coming out on top.
Rusted ducks under a wild hook from Soderberg.
Jethro Rusted is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T3#
Rusted throws a left and a right that both miss
and Soderberg counters with a nice uppercut.
That kick from Rusted tenderised Soderberg's leg. Soderberg is trying to keep his angry face on.
Soderberg misses with a hook
and Rusted makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Rusted uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Soderberg.
Rusted feinted there with a counter leg kick.
Rusted connects with a solid leg kick.
Nice body kick from Rusted.
Rusted fakes the leg kick and cracks Soderberg in the body.
Rusted lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Rusted throws a half hearted mid kick.
Soderberg misses with a hook
and Rusted counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head. #T4#
Rusted scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Soderberg feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Rusteds jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Soderberg throws a jab but it's blocked by Rusted.
A thudding body kick lands there by Rusted!
Soderberg misses with a body shot
and Rusted counters with a nice body kick.
Rusted fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Soderberg tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Soderberg tries for a takedown but Rusted circles away easily
and Rusted counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Soderberg thinking.
Rusted fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.

And that's the end of the fight!
Jethro Rusted showed his dominance in that final round.
Well I reckon that's a shut out for Rusted, winning every round. Will the judges agree? They are the ones who matter, even if they are often depressingly incompetent. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Arvi Lind scores the fight 50:44
Judge Roosa Järviläinen scores the fight 50:45
Judge Matti Vanhoillinen scores the fight 50:43

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Jethro Rusted!
An out of breath Jethro Rusted thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.
Rufus Soderberg was interviewed post fight and said 'I'm not done. I'm not done. '.

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 36
Date: Oct 08, 2016

#R1#
Soderberg shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Keller as he avoids it easily.
Soderberg lands a jab, followed by a cross and another cross, as Keller backs up against the cage. #TD2#
Soderberg throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Keller was covering up waiting for the punch and Soderberg finishes the takedown easily into guard.
Keller working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Soderberg.
Keller working a defensive guard here. #SUB#
Soderberg got a little sloppy there for a moment and Keller has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Soderberg has managed to get both his arms back between Keller's legs - danger averted.
Keller working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Soderberg.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Soderberg looking to sit in guard and control but Keller gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR#
Keller throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Soderberg works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Keller pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Soderberg is keeping the position for now. #T1#
Keller is working hard here to advance position.
Keller has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.#SUB2#
Soderberg throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #SUB2#
Soderberg looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening. #SUB2#
Soderberg escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Keller gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Keller preventing the sweep.
Keller looking to pass the guard.
Keller postures up in Soderberg's guard and throws a big left but Soderberg blocks it. #T2#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Soderberg is trying to control the position but Keller postures up.
Keller wants to control from the top but Soderberg keeps moving.
Keller is really struggling to control Soderberg but he's trying to hold on to the position.#SUB2#
Soderberg is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Keller is aware though and is defending well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Soderberg looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Keller passes into half guard.
Keller thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Soderberg's head.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Keller is trying to control the action in half guard but Soderberg is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Keller thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Keller passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Soderberg! #T3#
Keller tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
Keller scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Soderberg?
Soderberg is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Soderberg tries to control Keller's body but Keller pushes him off. Soderberg squirms to his side and now Keller has his back!
Soderberg breaks Keller's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
Soderberg trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Keller preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Keller looking for a sweep. Not yet Keller, not yet.
Keller keeping moving, preventing Soderberg from controlling successfully.
Soderberg pushing down on Keller's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work. #T4#
Soderberg trying to control from half guard but Keller is working away. #SUB#
Keller looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Soderberg thows a huge punch but Keller dodges it nicely.
Keller wants to control but Soderberg is keeping busy.
Keller is looking for a sweep. Soderberg is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Soderberg seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Keller wants to improve his position but Soderberg is controlling well.
Soderberg wants to control but Keller is keeping him busy.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Rufus Soderberg will probably get the nod.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!
#R2#
A jab from Soderberg finds it's way through Keller's defenses.
Soderberg looks to land a right hand but Keller moved out of range.
It looked like Keller wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Ouch! a nice leg kick from Keller, right into the meat.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Keller, as that shot connected.
Keller misses with a wild body shot.
Decent striking displayed by Soderberg there.
Soderberg takes a swing at Keller's ribcage but misses.
Soderberg walks into a stiff left hand from Keller.
Keller misses with a straight right.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Keller swings widly with a right hand
and Soderberg counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Keller misses with a series of wild punches.
Keller thows a leg kick but Soderberg checks it
and Soderberg counters with a nice uppercut. #T1#
Soderberg keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Keller looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Keller keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Soderberg misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Keller.
Keller looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Keller connects with a solid leg kick.
Keller takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Soderberg connects with a body shot that sends Keller's belly button to the back.
Keller lands a lovely overhand right.
Soderberg scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Keller with a nice cross.
Keller displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Soderberg.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Soderberg throws a wild body kick that Keller sees coming a mile off.#T2#
Keller throws a hook but Soderberg avoids it easily.
And Soderberg tries to counter it with a takedown but Keller pushes his down on his head and steps out.
A jab from Soderberg misses.
Keller scores with a crisp jab that stopped Soderberg in his tracks.
Soderberg pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
It looked like Keller wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Keller throws a feint and then finishes with a kick to the body.
Soderberg misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Keller.
Keller throws a head kick that misses.
And Soderberg tries to counter it with a takedown but Keller pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Soderberg on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Keller displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Soderberg throws out the jab.
Soderberg throws a body kick that misses
and Soderberg takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Keller connects with a body shot that sends Soderberg's belly button to the back.
Keller swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
A nice side step and Soderberg releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.#T3#
Soderberg scores with a hook.
Soderberg shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.#TD2#
Soderberg closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Keller did well to prevent Soderberg getting side control.
Soderberg is breathing heavily.
Keller is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Keller makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Keller.
Keller utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound. #T4#
Soderberg lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Soderberg slips nicely into half guard.
Keller trying to control from the bottom.
Keller is looking to get back to full guard here but Soderberg has managed to pass to side control instead.
Keller manages to get one leg in to regain half guard. #SUB2#
Soderberg seems to be looking for submissions.
Soderberg not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Keller tries to get to full guard but Soderberg has control of the leg.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#SUB#
Keller 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 Soderberg. Oh but Keller has got full guard now! Oh boy! This one could be over very soon! Soderberg goes limp - he's gone! Keller jumps up and celebrates with the crowd - fantastic submission finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:59 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Virgil Keller!
Virgil Keller retains his middleweight title!
Virgil Keller thanked the fans post fight for their support.
In defeat, Rufus Soderberg stepped up to the mic, saying 'I'm not done. I'm not done. '.

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 33
Date: Sep 17, 2016

#R1#
Soderberg misses with a lunging right hand
and Rusted counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Soderberg loads up on a big right hand but Rusted slips the punch.
Soderberg waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Rusted.
Soderberg lands with a hook. Rusted tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head. #TD2#
Soderberg fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Rusted sprawls well initially but Soderberg persists and gets the takedown into half guard. #SUB#
Rusted looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Rusted trying to control here.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Soderberg lands a nice short elbow.#SUB2#
Soderberg is looking for a kimura here.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Soderberg trying to control the action but Rusted is working from the bottom. #T1##SUB#
Rusted is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Soderberg pulls his head out easily.
Soderberg working over Rusted with some ground and pound. Rusted looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Soderberg not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Soderberg trying to control from half guard but Rusted is working away.
Rusted tries to kick Soderberg off but Soderberg keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Nice strikes from Soderberg there.
Soderberg prevents Rusted from improving his position.
Soderberg throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Soderberg throwing shots but Rusted is blocking nicely.
Soderberg wants to take a breather but Rusted is having none of it.
Soderberg lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Rusted looks like he's trying to stand up.
Soderberg is taking a breather. Rusted says something to him but it's hard to make out. Perhaps he's telling him to get on with it and actually do something.
Rusted controlling the position for now.#T3#
Rusted regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Soderberg.
Rusted working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Soderberg.
Rusted lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR##SUB2#
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Soderberg looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Rusted passes into half guard.
Soderberg trying to control from the bottom.
Rusted tries to stand but can't do so whilst Soderberg controls his leg.
Soderberg moves into full guard. #T4#
Soderberg working a defensive guard here. #SUB2#
Soderberg has his feet on Rusted's thighs here. He's pushed Rusted off and worked for a very quick armbar from the bottom! He's flipped onto his stomach and he's cranking hard on the arm! Rusted screams in pain and taps out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:29 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Rufus Soderberg!
As Rufus Soderberg got his breath back, he grabbed the microphone and managed to blurt out the following: ...'.

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 31
Date: Sep 03, 2016

#R1#
Jalkalukko connects with an inside leg kick.
Soderberg throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
An inside leg kick lands from Jalkalukko.
Jalkalukko throws a front kick aimed at Soderberg's knee but Soderberg avoids it well.
Soderberg with the counter takedown but Jalkalukko avoids it easily.
Jalkalukko uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Soderberg.
Soderberg throws a leg kick but Jalkalukko moved away.
A chopping leg kick lands by Jalkalukko.
Soderberg throws a head kick but Jalkalukko moves out of range.
Soderberg keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Jesse Jalkalukko seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Soderberg feints and then cracks Jalkalukko's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Jalkalukko down.
Jalkalukko misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jalkalukko attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
We've been hearing reports that Jalkalukko has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Soderberg uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Jalkalukko has time to react.
Soderberg just misses with a punch to the body.
Jalkalukko looked to counter with a high kick but didn't commit.
Jalkalukko shoots in for a takedown but Soderberg shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Soderberg is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.#T1#
Jalkalukko works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Jalkalukko scores with a leg kick.
Soderberg jabs at Jalkalukko's body.
Soderberg lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Jalkalukko at a distance.
Jalkalukko tries to land a leg kick but Soderberg saw it coming and moves away.
Jalkalukko tries to work over Soderberg's front leg with a kick but Soderberg checks it.
Soderberg lands with an overhand left.
Soderberg scores with a sloppy right hand. Jalkalukko should have avoided that one. #ROC2#
Jalkalukko is rocked!
Soderberg Throws a clean left jab. Soderberg Twirls his body and connects with a Spinning Back Fist that connects flush with Jalkalukko's chin! Jalkalukko crumbles to the ground and Soderberg follows up with some unanswered strikes. It's all over!! Nice standup skills displayed by Soderberg!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:45 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Rufus Soderberg!
Rufus Soderberg looked relieved post fight as he said the following; '...'.

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 28
Date: Aug 06, 2016

#R1#
Soderberg closes this distance looking for a takedown but Rusted circles away.
Rusted jinks towards his opponent looking like he wants to counter with a mid kick but doesn't commit.
Soderberg loads up on a big right hand but Rusted slips the punch.
Rusted half committed to a counter leg kick.
Good shot there by Soderberg.
Soderberg on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
Soderberg tries to land a body kick#TD#
and Rusted counters with a takedown into side control.
Soderberg stops Rusted from passing to mount.
Soderberg is looking for a sweep.
Soderberg takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Soderberg is being controlled here.
Soderberg is trying to improve his position.
Rusted misses with a strike but at least he's keeping busy, looking to cause some damage - that will still help him when it comes to the judges scorecards.
Soderberg prevents Rusted from moving into mount. #T1#
Soderberg is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.
Rusted working the head and body with strikes.
Soderberg tries to get to full guard but Rusted has control of the leg.
Soderberg trying to control here. #SUB2#
Soderberg is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Rusted pulls his head out easily.
Rusted trying to pass the guard but Soderberg defending well. #SUB2#
Soderberg looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Rusted working Soderberg over with strikes.
Soderberg tries to get to full guard but Rusted has control of the leg.
Soderberg is in trouble now - Rusted has advanced to mount! #T2#
Rusted scoring with strikes but Soderberg is staying in there.
Soderberg takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
Rusted controlling from mount.
Rusted can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Soderberg is looking to escape.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Soderberg bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Soderberg loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Rusted pulls Soderberg in close to his closed guard and prevents Soderberg from doing any damage or advancing position.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Rusted is on top in guard. #REVR##T3##SUB2#
Soderberg working for a triangle but Rusted defends it easily.
Rusted pushes down on Soderberg's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Soderberg gets back to full guard.
Soderberg is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move. #REVB##SUB2#
Soderberg is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Rusted doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Soderberg. #T4##SUB#
Rusted looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Rusted looking to force a kimura from the bottom here. He's concentrating on that move too much though and Soderberg pushes past his half guard into mount!
Soderberg avoids the attempt from Rusted to control.
Rusted 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.
Soderberg is trying to control here but Rusted has managed to regain half guard.
Ground and pound from Soderberg.
Rusted gets back to full guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jethro Rusted dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.
#R2#
Soderberg takes a push kick to the midsection and stumbles backwards.
Rusted looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Soderberg misses with a kick to the body
and Rusted connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Soderberg misses with a body kick.
Soderberg is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Rusted.
Rusted throws a head kick that Soderberg semi-blocks.
Rusted misses with a series of wild punches.
Soderberg is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Rusted with a body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Soderberg misses with a hook.
And Rusted counters with a quick kick to the body but Soderberg blocks it.
Rusted is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Soderberg can do to turn this around?
Rusted scores with a nice right hand. #T1#
Soderberg looks to land a right hand but Rusted moved out of range.
Soderberg misses with a looping left.
And Rusted counters with a quick kick to the body but Soderberg blocks it.
Rusted rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Soderberg moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Soderberg slips a jab and a cross from Rusted.
Soderberg throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Rusted went nuts there looking for a big combo counter but none of the flurry connected.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Soderberg is defended easily by Rusted.
Rusted feinted with a counter takedown.
Soderberg fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Rusted is out of range.
Rusted lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Rusted cracks a nice hook into Soderberg's ribs.#T2#
Soderberg misses with an attempted mid kick.
Soderberg looks to land a left hand but Rusted moved out of range nicely.
Rusted bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Soderberg's head.
A jab from Rusted finds it's way through Soderberg's defenses.
Soderberg misses with a body shot.
Soderberg throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Rusted sees it coming and avoids it easily.
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!
Soderberg ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Rusted moves away.
Rufus Soderberg seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Soderberg misses with a jab, cross combination.
It looked like Rusted was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
Soderberg tries to move into range but Rusted moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Soderberg swinging wildly here. #T3#
Good exchange - Soderberg coming out on top.
Soderberg misses with a right hand
and Rusted counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Soderberg misses with a series of wild punches.
Soderberg chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Rusted can pounce on him.
Soderberg feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Rusteds jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Soderberg throws out a powerful jab.
Donk. Rusted catches Soderberg right on the button with a cross.
Rusted misses with a straight left. #T4#
Soderberg on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Soderberg shoots and misses
and Soderberg takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Rusted dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Soderberg. That did some damage!#TD2#
Soderberg closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Rusted's guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Rusted wants to sweep here but Soderberg controlling him for the moment.
Rusted has control of Soderberg's left arm, preventing Soderberg from doing any damage.
Soderberg postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Rusted has his hands on Soderberg's head, controlling the position.
Soderberg wants to pass the guard but Rusted is keeping the position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jethro Rusted dominated that second round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Rusted misses with a wild combination.
Soderberg misses with a wild body shot.
Rusted tries to bum rush Soderberg with a series of wild strikes but Soderberg uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Soderberg takes a jab right on the kisser.
Rusted misses with the body kick
and Soderberg counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Rusted thinking.
Soderberg throws a right hand that Rusted ducks under and follows up with a left that Rusted also avoids with ease.
Rusted lands a jab to the head.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Soderberg showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Rusted.
Rusted lands the left hand.#T1#
Soderberg shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Rusted but Rusted pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Rusted is looking light on his feet compared to last time was saw him fight.
Rusted throws a head kick that misses.
Rusted just misses with a punch to the body.
Soderberg fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Rusted manages to avoid it.
Soderberg dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Soderberg throws an overhand right that lands on Rusted's shoulder, as Rusted tries to avoid the shot.
Rusted throws a body punch but Soderberg moves out of range.
A kick lands to the mid section there for Rusted.
Rufus Soderberg has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Soderberg with a poor takedown
enabling Rusted to counter with a crisp jab.
Soderberg lands a glancing blow to the side of Rusted's head.
Rusted slips a jab from Soderberg.
Soderberg with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Rusted jabs at Soderberg's body.
Soderberg throws out a loose jab but Rusted uses good head movement to avoid it.
Soderberg misses with a combination
and Rusted counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Soderberg looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Rusted is fending him off so far but Soderberg persists. Nope, Rusted circles away and we're back to standing.
Jethro Rusted has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Rufus Soderberg.
Soderberg takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Soderberg is trying hard to land a takedown here. Rusted sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Like a baseball bat into the meat of his leg there - nice leg kick by Rusted.
Jethro Rusted is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T3#
Soderberg throws a right hand that misses
and Rusted counters with a two punch combo.
Soderberg shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Rusted counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Rusted chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Rusted moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
The crowd cheers as Rusted lands an impressive looking overhand right. Soderberg doesn't seem phased though.#TD#
Soderberg gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.#SUB2#
Soderberg looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Rusted not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up. #T4#
Rusted pushing down on Soderberg's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
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!
Rusted is thwarting Soderberg's attempts to control the position.#SUB2#
Soderberg is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Rusted pulls his head out easily. #SUB2#
Soderberg looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Rusted is figuring out what he wants to do next.
Soderberg trying to get back to full guard but Rusted takes advantage of the position and moves to full mount!

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ben Zyskovitsi scores the fight 30:27
Judge Arvi Lind scores the fight 30:27
Judge Johanna Lukiainen scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Jethro Rusted!
Jethro Rusted seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.
In defeat, Rufus Soderberg stepped up to the mic, saying 'I'm not done. I'm not done. '.

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 21
Date: Jun 11, 2016

#R1#
Amaral slips under a jab from Soderberg.
Amaral throws a series of strikes that have Soderberg backpedaling.
Nice defenses there by Amaral.
Soderberg scores with a jab to the head.
Amaral ducks right into an uppercut from Soderberg.
Soderberg misses with a two punch combination.
Amaral dips to his left and cracks Soderberg with an uppercut!
Amaral scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Amaral misses with an uppercut. Soderberg saw that one coming.
Soderberg misses with a left hand
and Amaral counters with a straight right hand.
Soderberg shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Amaral counters with a lovely straight right hand!#T1#
Amaral uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Soderberg.
Amaral throwing a counter right hand but Soderberg manages to avoid it.
Soderberg looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Soderberg takes one to the chin there.
Amaral throws a head kick that misses.
Amaral wants to clinch up but Soderberg keeps it at a distance.
Soderberg feints the counter takedown.
Amaral is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Soderberg misses with a takedown
and Amaral counters with a nice uppercut.
Soderberg throws a hook to the side of Amaral's head but Amaral sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Amaral seem to be loading up, looking for a big counter.
Amaral takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Amaral throws a lazy uppercut #TD2#
and Soderberg counters with a single leg into guard. Amaral didn't expect that.
Amaral wants to stand and escape but Soderberg is having none of it. #T2#
Soderberg postures up in Amaral's guard and throws a big left but Amaral blocks it.
Soderberg postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Soderberg is looking to work some ground and pound but Amaral has wrist control.
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Soderberg trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Soderberg pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Amaral is keeping the position for now.
Soderberg lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Soderberg stops Amaral from standing up.
Soderberg missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Soderberg accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Amaral is in a tricky position. We've heard reports from his gym mates at Elite Burn that he's been drilling escapes, so let's see if he can get back to his feet.
Soderberg stops Amaral from standing up.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.#T3#
Soderberg trying to control the position from guard on top but Amaral is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
A head kick by Amaral misses
and Soderberg counters with a right hand to the body.
Amaral throws the left hand but Soderberg avoids the punch easily.
Soderberg slips a straight right by Amaral.
Amaral connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Rafael Amaral is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Amaral tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Soderberg feints the counter takedown.
Soderberg ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Amaral moves away.
Amaral is looking to counter with head kicks.
Amaral is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Soderberg throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Amaral throws a big counter combination but Soderberg scrambles out of danger and avoids any damage.
Amaral throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Soderberg sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Soderberg throws a wild body kick that Amaral sees coming a mile off.
Amaral lifts his leg as if looking to counter with a high kick.
Soderberg lands a nice hook to Amaral's body. Amaral takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes. #T4#
Soderberg fails with the takedown
and Amaral counters with a straight right hand.
Rafael Amaral has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Rufus Soderberg.
Amaral throws a nice head kick!
Soderberg misses with a takedown attempt
and Amaral counters with a two punch combo.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Soderberg loads up on a big right hand but Amaral slips the punch.
Amaral connects with a leg kick. Soderberg looked like he was expecting something else and didn't defend it.
Soderberg throws a body shot but no joy.
Amaral misses with a lunging right hand #TD2#
and Soderberg counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Soderberg.
Soderberg working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Soderberg wants to control from the top but Amaral keeps moving.
Amaral is adopting a defensive 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 Rafael Amaral will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!
#R2#
Amaral tries a low kick but Soderberg avoids it.
Soderberg looks to score with a jab to the body but Amaral is just out of range.
Soderberg swings widly with a right hand
letting Amaral counter with a right hand.
Soderberg throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
A looping hook to the body misses from Soderberg. Amaral does a little dance to reset his feet.
Soderberg shoots for a takedown but Amaral saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Soderberg scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Soderberg shoots in for a takedown but Amaral shows good takedown defense.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Amaral scores with a punch to the head.
Amaral throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Soderberg keeps the fight on the outside.#T1#
Amaral throws a head kick that misses.
A head kick misses from Amaral.
Nice jab there from Amaral.
Soderberg is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Amaral.
Amaral misses with the combination.
Soderberg punishes Amaral's body with a nice straight punch.
Amaral connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Soderberg throws a left and a right that both miss
and Amaral counters with a stiff right hand. #T2#
Amaral stuffs the takedown.
Rafael Amaral has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Rufus Soderberg.
Soderberg swings and misses with a shot to the body
letting Amaral counter with a right hand.
Amaral stuffs the takedown attempt from Soderberg. Soderberg gets slowly back to his feet.
Soderberg lands a slapping body shot.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Amaral throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Rufus Soderberg seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Soderberg throws a sloppy body shot
and Amaral counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Soderberg with a jab.
Soderberg cracks the inside of Amaral's front leg. #CL#
Amaral moves into the clinch.#T3#
Soderberg jumps guard but Amaral turns him against the ropes and keeps the fight standing.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Amaral.
Amaral working aggressively here.
Amaral goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Amaral misses with the head strike.
Amaral is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Soderberg can do to turn this around?
Amaral tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Soderberg avoids it.
Soderberg lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Amaral lands a right hand that snaps the head of Soderberg backwards.
Amaral misses with a punch to the body.
Amaral misses with the head strike.
Nice body punch from Soderberg.
Amaral missing with knees to the body.
Amaral prevents a body shot from Soderberg.
A shot in the inside from Amaral. #T4#
Amaral throws a nice elbow but it doesn't land.
Amaral misses with a punch on the inside.
Soderberg tries to work over Amaral's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Amaral tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A short right from Amaral on the inside.
Soderberg lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Amaral or not.
Soderberg lands with a right to the head.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
A head punch on the inside from Soderberg fails to land.
Soderberg misses with a hook to the ribs.
Amaral misses with some punches.
Amaral swings wildly with an uppercut but Soderberg uses good head movement to avoid it.
Soderberg throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
Soderberg misses with a hook to the ribs.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Rafael Amaral dominated that second round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! So, we enter the final round. Let's see if either fighter can bring us a finish, or whether we're going to the judges scorecards.
#R3#
Amaral misses with a double jab
and Soderberg counters with a nice uppercut.
Amaral uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Soderberg.
Rafael Amaral is winning the standup battle so far.
Soderberg will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away.
Soderberg gets off balance looking for a body kick
and Amaral cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Amaral misses with a wild combination.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Soderberg dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Amaral ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Amaral scores with a punch to the head.#T1#
Amaral feints with a shoulder and throws a nice leg kick to Soderberg's calf.
Amaral takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Amaral misses with a head kick.
Amaral missing with a left hand there. Soderberg was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
As Amaral backs off Soderberg throws a huge counter combo but Amaral manages to avoid it all.
Amaral lands a nice shot that snaps Soderberg's head back.
A swing and a miss from Amaral.
Soderberg connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Amaral throws a head kick that misses
and Soderberg cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Amaral throws a body shot but no joy.
A countering left hand to the body from Soderberg misses.
Soderberg lands with a right hand.
Rufus Soderberg has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Soderberg lands with a cross.
A looping hook to the body misses from Soderberg. Amaral does a little dance to reset his feet.
Amaral lands a head kick!
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!
Soderberg has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Amaral finds it's way round the side to connect with Soderberg's head.
Soderberg with a poor takedown
and Amaral counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Soderberg uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Amaral.
Amaral misses with a hook.#CL#
Amaral gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Amaral trying to land knees to the body. #T3#
Soderberg tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Amaral fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Amaral stalls.
Soderberg digs a right hand into Amaral's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Amaral's gas tank.
Soderberg is leaning against Amaral and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Amaral throws a punch but it's blocked by Soderberg.
Amaral makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Soderberg misses with a punch to the body.
Amaral lands a left hand.
Rafael Amaral has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Amaral lands a right hand.
Soderberg managing to block the knees to the body from Amaral.
Soderberg has a couple of punches blocked by Amaral.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Amaral. #T4#
Soderberg blocking some punches.
A short body shot lands from Soderberg as the two fighters clinch.
Amaral misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Soderberg lands a nice shot to the body.
Amaral looking to throw knees to the head but Soderberg is blocking nicely.
Soderberg is working for a takedown up against the ropes. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Rafael Amaral has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Rufus Soderberg.
Soderberg tries a body shot but Amaral blocks it.
Amaral fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Soderberg wants to get back to striking at distance but Amaral won't allow it.
Amaral gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Soderberg.
Amaral misses with a hook from the clinch.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Soderberg misses with a punch to the body.
Amaral blocks a punch to the side of the head.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Soderberg.

And that's the end of the fight!
Rafael Amaral showed his dominance in that final round.
Well I reckon that's a shut out for Amaral, winning every round. Will the judges agree? They are the ones who matter, even if they are often depressingly incompetent. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Arvi Lind scores the fight 30:27
Judge Tarja Halkonen scores the fight 30:27
Judge Ben Zyskovitsi scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Rafael Amaral!
During a confident post fight interview, Rafael Amaral thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.
Rufus Soderberg spoke after the fight, saying 'I'm not done. I'm not done. '.

Event: Helsinki Fighting League: 18
Date: May 21, 2016

#R1##TD#
Benton bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Soderberg sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Benton is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Soderberg trying to control from the bottom.
Benton wants to lay and pray for a moment but Soderberg keeps working. #SUB#
Benton is trying to work for a kimura but Soderberg is defending well.
Soderberg is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Benton is trying to control the action in half guard but Soderberg is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #SUB#
Benton is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Soderberg is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #T1##SUB#
Benton is looking for a kimura here. #SUB#
Soderberg is looking to regain full guard. He's left an arm up in the air though and Benton has latched onto it... Big trouble! Benton pivots for an armbar - it's in tight and it Soderberg is tapping in no time flat! Great counter grappling there from Benton!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:36 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Grant Benton!
An out of breath Grant Benton thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.
The defeated Rufus Soderberg had this to say: 'I'm not done. I'm not done. '.

Event: Helsinki Fight Night 2
Date: Apr 23, 2016

#R1#
Cousteau is looking to clinch.
Soderberg feinted with a counter takedown.
Cousteau cracks Soderberg with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.#TD2#
Cousteau closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Cousteau lands in his opponent's guard.#SUB#
Soderberg has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Cousteau can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Soderberg controls Cousteau momentarily but Cousteau frees himself.
Cousteau tries to free his leg and advance position but Soderberg is retaining full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cousteau connects with a couple of short punches.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Cousteau working his ground and pound in the gym. So far it seems to be working well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Soderberg looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Soderberg preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Soderberg wants to sweep here but Cousteau controlling him for the moment. #T1##SUB#
Soderberg is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Cousteau scoring with some ground and pound.
Cousteau trying to control the position from guard on top but Soderberg is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cousteau stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Soderberg swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Cousteau postures up in Soderberg's guard and throws a big left but Soderberg blocks it.
Soderberg pulls Cousteau in close to his closed guard and prevents Cousteau from doing any damage or advancing position.
Cousteau passes Soderberg's left leg - he's now in half guard.
Soderberg is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Cousteau's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Cousteau's back!#T2#
The crowd hopeful of a finish here - Soderberg's supporters are on their feet, screaming for him to go for the rear naked choke.
Cousteau breaks Soderberg's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Cousteau throws a big elbow that misses. #SUB#
Soderberg throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #SUB#
Soderberg has thrown up a leg looking for a triangle. Cousteau doesn't defend quickly enough and Soderberg has managed to lock this one up! Can Cousteau escape?! NO! He's tapping out! Damn, that was a quick submission - congrats to Soderberg on a fantastic submission victory.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:46 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Rufus Soderberg!
In his post fight interview, Rufus Soderberg gave a big smile as he said '...'.

Event: Helsinki Fight Night 1
Date: Apr 02, 2016

#R1#
Soderberg thuds his right hand into Damione Deathclaw's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.#TD2#
Damione Deathclaw shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Damione Deathclaw showed some decent athleticism there. #SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there. #SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Soderberg doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Damione Deathclaw.
Damione Deathclaw trying to control the action but Soderberg is working from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Soderberg looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Soderberg looking for submissions off his back.
The fighters are trapped in the ropes so we're going to have a reposition here. The ref calls for a break and repositions the fighters in the center of the ring.#T1#
Soderberg is looking for a sweep. Damione Deathclaw is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Soderberg wants to control but Damione Deathclaw is keeping busy. #SUB#
Soderberg is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Damione Deathclaw pulls his head out easily. #SUB#
Soderberg looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Soderberg wants to get back to full guard.
Damione Deathclaw is pressing down on Soderberg's thigh, looking to free his foot. Soderberg is holding on for now. #SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique.
Damione Deathclaw works his foot free and advances to mount. #T2#
Damione Deathclaw wants to control the pace but Soderberg is squirming around nicely.
Damione Deathclaw controlling from the full mount. #SUB2#
Soderberg defends a decent attempt at a guillotine from Damione Deathclaw.
Soderberg is wriggling around trying to escape.
Soderberg stops Damione Deathclaw from taking his back. Still, being mounted isn't any better. #T3#
Soderberg sneaks a leg back under and regains half guard and is working straight away to try and get back to guard. He hasn't managed just yet though.
Damione Deathclaw frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Damione Deathclaw tries to control but Soderberg wriggling away.
Soderberg can't escape the position.
Soderberg is squirming around, avoiding Damione Deathclaw's attempts to control the action. #SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Soderberg turns into him and now he's in Damione Deathclaw's guard.
Soderberg connects with a couple of short punches.#T4#
Soderberg missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Soderberg won't allow Damione Deathclaw to sweep him here.
Soderberg wants to control from the top but Damione Deathclaw keeps moving.
Damione Deathclaw tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Damione Deathclaw preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Soderberg's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Soderberg has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.#SUB2#
Soderberg avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.
Soderberg not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Damione Deathclaw wants to sweep but no luck. #SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw working for a triangle but Soderberg defends it easily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Calypso Damione Deathclaw dominated that round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action.
#R2#
Damione Deathclaw uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Damione Deathclaw throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Soderberg uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Damione Deathclaw.
Soderberg appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
Calypso Damione Deathclaw seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Damione Deathclaw lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.#TD2#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Soderberg enables Damione Deathclaw to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Soderberg manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Damione Deathclaw wants to pass the guard but Soderberg is keeping the position.
Soderberg is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw has gone for a leg lock! Soderberg slips out almost immediately though and dives into Damione Deathclaw's guard.#REVR#
Calypso Damione Deathclaw has got the better of the ground game so far.
Soderberg lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.#T1#
Soderberg working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Damione Deathclaw's head.
Soderberg throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Damione Deathclaw works some decent striking defense from the bottom. #SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw looking for a guillotine here but Soderberg defends easily. #SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Soderberg cracks Damione Deathclaw with a solid left hand.#SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Soderberg defends it easily.
Soderberg trying to control the position from guard on top but Damione Deathclaw is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T2#
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Soderberg's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Damione Deathclaw keeping moving, preventing Soderberg from controlling successfully.
Soderberg postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Soderberg postures up and lands a big shot to Damione Deathclaw's brow. #SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw is looking for a triangle but Soderberg pushes his legs off easily. #SUB2#
Damione Deathclaw has managed to work for a loose triangle. I think Soderberg should be able to defend this one pretty easily though. Oh, Damione Deathclaw has tightened it up now! Soderberg should have reacted faster there - he's in big trouble and yes, he's tapped out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:59 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Calypso Damione Deathclaw!
An out of breath and clearly excited Calypso Damione Deathclaw thanked Pitt Nutrition 160Q! for their help and support (and free stuff they sent him).
In defeat, Rufus Soderberg stepped up to the mic, saying 'I'm not done. I'm not done. '.

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