Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Jul 29, 2018

#R1#
Costel throws a hook but Pozar avoids it easily.
Costel takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Pozar lands with a straight right. Costel didn't see that one coming.#TD2#
Costel looking to score a takedown here. Pozar is defending well but Costel drives through and ends up in Pozar's guard.
Costel scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Costel has been taking part in the yoga sessions down at Q Club. Presumably he's going to look for a slick submission... Or maybe he's looking to avoid one.
Costel is in close to Pozar's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Costel cracks Pozar with a solid left hand.#SUB#
Pozar working for a triangle but Costel defends it easily. #SUB#
Pozar throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #SUB#
Pozar escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Costel gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Costel trying to control the position from guard on top but Pozar is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Costel has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.#T1#
Costel chips away with some ground and pound.
Costel wants to control from the top but Pozar keeps moving. #SUB#
Costel got a little sloppy there for a moment and Pozar has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Costel has managed to get both his arms back between Pozar's legs - danger averted.#SUB#
Costel avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Costel is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact. #SUB#
Pozar is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Pozar throwing strikes off his back to little effect.
Pozar keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully. #SUB#
Pozar looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar. #T2#
Costel chips away with some ground and pound.
Costel scoring with some ground and pound.
Pozar keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully.
Pozar will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Costel lands a couple of digs.#ROC2#
Pozar is rocked!
Costel trying to control but Pozar is working from the bottom.
Oh Pozar is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Costel makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.#SUB#
Pozar has his foot on Costel's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Costel works his way back into a safe position though.#SUB#
Costel avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Costel lands a couple of elbows.
Costel content to stall in guard here.
Costel landing with the ground and pound. #SUB#
Costel avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Costel landing with the ground and pound. #T3##SUB#
Pozar is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Costel defends well.
Costel scoring with some ground and pound.
Costel slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Costel content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Costel landing with the ground and pound.
Costel wants to control from the top but Pozar keeps moving.
Costel cracks Pozar with a solid left hand.
Costel wants to control from the top but Pozar keeps moving.
Costel slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Pozar really does look like a pencil wearing a pair of gloves. Let's hope he has a gameplan to suit that ridiculous body shape.
Costel working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
Pozar struggling a bit here.
Pozar is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Costel has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Costel working the head and body with strikes. #T4#
You can see the frustration on Pozar's face as Costel controls the position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Costel scores with a couple of short elbows.
Pozar wings away with a couple of strikes but they don't land.
Pozar on the wrong end of some ground and pound. #SUB2#
Costel has an Americana. Pozar didn't react quickly enough there and he's in big trouble now! He tries to squirm out but is forced to tap! Costel is delighted and gyrates in front of the ring girls. They seem to like the attention - it'll be interesting to see if Costel hooks up with any of them at the after show party.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:30 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Neculai Costel!
An out of breath Neculai Costel thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.
Pozar Pozar was interviewed post fight and said 'Thanks my sponsors and all my fans!!!'.

Event: MMMA Yaj Vs Madness 3
Date: Jul 18, 2018

#R1##TD2#
Jokinen manages to get an easy takedown there - catching Costel on his heels. He'll look to pass Costel's guard now, I'm sure.
Costel looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Jokinen advances to half guard.
Jokinen looking to pass the half guard. Not this time. #SUB2#
Jokinen is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Costel sees it coming and defends easily.
Costel moves into full guard.
Jokinen looking to pass the guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel wants to sweep here but Jokinen controlling him for the moment.
Jokinen pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Costel is keeping the position for now. #T1#
Jokinen trying to control the position from guard on top but Costel is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Jokinen postures up.
Jokinen has been taking part in the yoga sessions down at HELLCADEMY (Ground Training). Presumably he's going to look for a slick submission... Or maybe he's looking to avoid one.
Jokinen trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Costel lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR#
Costel is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Jokinen can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Costel controls the pace.
Costel has controlled the position for a good 20 seconds, which will no doubt be starting to frustrate his opponent.
Costel keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Jokinen's head.
Costel trying to control but Jokinen is working from the bottom. #T2#
Jokinen is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Jokinen is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
Jokinen keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully.
Jokinen 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.
Costel has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Jokinen looking to control.
Costel slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.
Costel postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Jokinen utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Costel trying to control the position from guard on top but Jokinen is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB2#
Jokinen escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Costel gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance. #T3##SUB2#
Jokinen is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Costel defends well.
Costel trying to control but Jokinen is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Jokinen is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Costel postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Costel working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Jokinen's head.
Costel is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Costel lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Costel 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.
Costel postures up and lands a big shot to Jokinen's brow. #T4#
Costel lands a couple of digs.
Costel is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Costel landing some decent shots from guard.
Costel trying to control the position from guard on top but Jokinen is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Jokinen working a defensive guard here.
Costel trying to control the position from guard on top but Jokinen is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Jokinen trying to control the position.
Costel landing with the ground and pound.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Costel trying to control the position from guard on top but Jokinen is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Costel with a nice head shot there.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.
#R2##TD#
Costel scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Costel lands an elbow. #ROC#
Jokinen is rocked!
Jokinen tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Jokinen takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Jokinen is still in real trouble! Can Costel finish him?#SUB#
Costel tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Costel has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Jokinen seems to have recovered his senses.
Costel is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Jokinen can do to turn this around?
Jokinen tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Neculai Costel overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Costel working the head with strikes.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jokinen is trying to improve his position.
Jokinen on the wrong end of some ground and pound.
Costel cracks Jokinen with a big right hand but Jokinen just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go. #T1#
Jokinen can't do much from the bottom here.
Costel laying and praying for a moment but Jokinen takes advantage and regains half guard.
Jokinen tries to roll over but Costel keeps him under control.
Costel slips a nice elbow through Jokinen's hands, connecting with Jokinen's forehead.#SUB#
Costel is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Jokinen wants to improve his position but Costel is controlling well.
Jokinen is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Costel seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Costel lands with a punch from half guard. #T2#
Jokinen has his hands clasped together around Costel's back. He's all about the action.#SUB#
Costel is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Costel slips a nice elbow through Jokinen's hands, connecting with Jokinen's forehead.
Jokinen is refusing to be controlled, as Costel sits in half guard. #SUB#
Costel is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Jokinen is just riding it out for now. Costel eventually gives up the hold.
Jokinen wants to improve his position but Costel is controlling well.
Jokinen is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Costel's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Costel's back!#T3##SUB2#
Jokinen working from the back looking to end the fight with a rear naked choke. Costel is doing well to defend. Jokinen seems to have got his hand under the chin though and he's sunk the choke in! Costel is forced to tap and this one is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:25 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Ori Jokinen!
Ori Jokinen took to the microphone after his victory and thanked his sponsors, ON TAP 160Q Nutrition for their support in the buildup to the fight.
Neculai Costel was interviewed post fight and said 'Suge pula'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 162
Date: Jan 13, 2018

#R1#
I Can uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Costel has time to react.
Costel works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
I Can misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Costel.
I Can throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Costel has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
A head kick misses from Costel.
Costel fails with a takedown attempt.
A shot to the liver by I Can. Beautiful body shot.
Costel avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
An attempted straight right counter from Costel misses the target.
A slapping leg kick lands for Costel.
Costel takes a swing at I Can's ribcage but misses.
It seemed like I Can was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
I Can throws a left and a right that both miss #TD#
and Costel counters with a single leg into guard. I Can didn't expect that.
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!
I Can trying to control the position.
I Can 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#
I Can is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Costel defends well.#T1#
I Can is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
I Can wants to sweep here but Costel controlling him for the moment.
Costel trying to control but I Can is working from the bottom.
I Can tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Costel throws a big right hand that misses.
Costel trying to stand up but can't free himself from I Can's guard.
I Can seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T2#
There's not a lot going on here and the crowd are letting the fighters know they're not willing to tolerate a lack of action.
I Can not looking particularly offensive just at the moment. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Costel with a poor takedown
and I Can counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Costel lands a straight punch to the body, keeping I Can at a distance.
I Can misses with a hook. Costel ducked under it nicely.
I Can tries to bum rush Costel with a series of wild strikes but Costel uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Costel bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
I Can throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Costel fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Costel misses with a takedown
enabling I Can to counter with a crisp jab. #ROC2#
Costel is rocked!
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Neculai Costel. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Both fighters step back and shake their arms out. I Can engages and cracks Costel with a massive lead left hook - Costel tumbles to the floor, out cold! What a shot! I Can is delighted - all that hard work in training paid off!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Because I Can!
Because I Can bigged himself up after the win. The crowd seemed to love it.
Neculai Costel was interviewed post fight and said 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 161
Date: Jan 06, 2018

#R1#
Thong Song misses the body punch
and Costel counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Costel has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
Costel fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Thong Song manages to avoid it.
A big left from Thong Song misses.
A slow jab from Thong Song misses its intended target.
Costel doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Thong Song counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Thong Song throws a jab but it's blocked by Costel.
Costel bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Thong Song changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Costel lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.
Costel misses with a low kick.
Thong Song lands a high kick!
Thong Song throws a leg kick that misses.
Thong Song throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Costel on the side of the head.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Costel connects with a jab.
Costel uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Thong Song.
Costel fails with a takedown attempt from distance.#T1#
Thong Song connects with a crisp jab.
Costel throws a right hand that Thong Song ducks under and follows up with a left that Thong Song also avoids with ease.#TD#
Costel shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Costel thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Thong Song's head.
Costel throwing shots but Thong Song is blocking nicely.
Costel keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.
Thong Song is looking to improve his position.
Thong Song moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Costel is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Costel trying to control but Thong Song is working from the bottom. #T2##SUB2#
Thong Song has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Costel can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Costel trying to control the position from guard on top but Thong Song is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Costel trying to stand up but can't free himself from Thong Song's guard.
Thong Song keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully.
Thong Song has Costel pulled in close to control his posture. #T3#
Costel throws an elbow that misses. Thong Song uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Costel's guard. Nice move by Thong Song!#REVB##SUB#
Costel is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Costel trying to control the position here.
Costel might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.#SUB#
Costel throws his legs up looking to secure a triangle. Oh, that looks pretty tight, I gotta say! Thong Song escapes and throws Costel's legs to the side, diving into side control!
Costel looks to move to half guard but instead Thong Song has passed into mount! Damn!
Costel wants to hold on but Thong Song pushes him away.#T4#
Thong Song looking to control but Costel is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Costel is trying to escape the mount.
Costel bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
Costel throws a big right hand that misses.
Thong Song looking to control. #SUB2#
Thong Song throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Costel stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Thong Song swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Thong Song keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully.
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 Neculai Costel will probably get the nod.
That's time! Back to the action!
#R2#
Costel avoids a kick to the body.
The fighters circling - Thong Song throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Costel pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Thong Song throws an overhand right that lands on Costel's shoulder, as Costel tries to avoid the shot.
Costel throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Costel looks to land a right hand but Thong Song moved out of range.
Costel misses with a looping right.
Costel looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Thong Song swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Costel shoots and misses
letting Thong Song counter with a right hand.
Costel misses with a hook.
Costel fails to land the takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Thong Song misses with a looping left.
Thong Song lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Thong Song misses with an uppercut.
Thong Song checks a leg kick. #T1#
Costel looks for a takedown but Thong Song sprawls well.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Neculai Costel. That's going to take a lot out of him.
No luck for Costel with that takedown attempt.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Thong Song! But no joy.
Costel uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Thong Song.
Costel will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Thong Song takes one to the chin there.
Costel dives in and grabs Thong Song's left leg, looking for a takedown. Thong Song pushes down on Costel's head and hops out.
Costel falls off balance throwing a combination
and Thong Song counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Costel walks into a stiff left hand from Thong Song.
Costel shoots in looking for a takedown but Thong Song manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Costel's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Costel throws an off balance right hand
enabling Thong Song to counter with a crisp jab.
Chang Thong Song is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Costel with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Thong Song to score with a decent uppercut.#T2#
Thong Song blocks a head kick by Costel.
Thong Song swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Thong Song scores with a jab to the jaw.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Nice jab there from Thong Song.
Costel rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Thong Song counters with a leg kick that reverborates around the arena.
Nice jab there from Thong Song.
Costel on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Thong Song has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.
Costel slips a straight right by Thong Song.
Costel tries a head kick but it misses.
Thong Song jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Thong Song fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Costel on the side of the head.
Costel falls off balance throwing a combination
and Thong Song cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Costel walks into a jab.#ROC2#
Costel is rocked!
Thong Song stuffs the takedown.
Good exchange - Costel coming out on top.
Thong Song has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Costel with a lazy takedown attempt
and Thong Song counters with a leg kick.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.#T3#
Thong Song moves out of range of the strikes.
Neculai Costel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Thong Song thuds his right hand into Costel's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Thong Song is using his reach advantage to land shots from outside his opponent's range.
Thong Song scores with a hook.
Oh Costel is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Costel throws a jab when Thong Song was well out of range.
Costel seems to have got his legs back now.
Thong Song changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Costel tries for a takedown but Thong Song circles away easily
and Thong Song counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Thong Song swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Costel.
Thong Song cracks Costel with a right hand to the side of the head.
Thong Song lands with a hook. Costel tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
A nice leg kick lands there from Thong Song.
Chang Thong Song seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Costel misses with a body shot
and Thong Song counters with a nice uppercut.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Thong Song uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Costel has time to react.
Thong Song drops a shoulder and throws an uppercut that cracks Costel right on the button. Costel goes down! Thong Song follows him to the mat and finishes the job with more strikes! Thong Song gets the win via TKO!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:57 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Chang Thong Song!
Chang Thong Song very nearly forgot to thank Red Light Coffeeshop amongst all the excitement of his win but just as the interview came to a close, he screamed their name. Hopefully he'll get a few nice freebies in the mail as a thank you.
Neculai Costel spoke after the fight, saying 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 156
Date: Dec 01, 2017

#R1#
A jab from Costel does it's job there.
Benderson lands a right hook to the body.
Costel ducks under a wild hook from Benderson.
Costel feints the counter takedown.
Benderson takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
A decent looking cross lands there for Benderson.
Benderson catches Costel with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Costel misses with a hook
letting Benderson counter with a right hand.
Benderson looks to land a combination but Costel avoids it well.
Costel steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Benderson.
Benderson slips a straight right by Costel.
Costel scores with a head kick.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Benderson throws a quick inside leg kick.
Costel keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Benderson connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Benderson throws a jab but it's blocked by Costel.
Donk. Costel catches Benderson right on the button with a cross.#CL#
Benderson instigates a clinch.
I was talking to Benderson's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Costel working hard to break the clinch.
A short right from Benderson on the inside. #T1#
Benderson landing knees to the body.
Benderson tries to land a knee to the head but misses.
Costel tries to land a knee to the head but Benderson blocks with his arms. #BC2#
Costel breaks from the clinch.
Benderson throws a right hand that Costel ducks under and follows up with a left that Costel also avoids with ease.
Costel tries a low kick but Benderson avoids it.
Benderson thuds his right hand into Costel's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.#ROC#
Costel is rocked!
Benderson tries to close the distance and clinch up but Costel swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Costel is still on wobbly legs! Can Benderson finish him?
Benderson steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Costel.
Costel seems to have recovered his senses.
Costel needs to keep his hands up - Benderson had a free shot at his head there.
Benderson pounces like a tiger and cracks Costel with a vicious hook! Costel is down but not out! Benderson follows up with more strikes forcing the ref to jump in and stop it!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:42 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Punches). Henson Benderson!
Neculai Costel was interviewed post fight and said 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 153
Date: Nov 12, 2017

#R1#
Costel ducks under a wild hook from Collins.
Costel drops down looking for a counter takedown but Collins sprawls and moves away.
Costel looks to land a left hand but Collins moved out of range nicely.
Costel lunges at Collins with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Collins's hand.
Collins misses with a wild body shot.
Costel moves out of range of the strikes.
Collins doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Costel cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Neculai Costel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Collins bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Like a baseball bat into the meat of his leg there - nice leg kick by Costel.
Costel swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.#TD2#
Collins feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
Costel wants to sweep but no luck.
Collins looking to pass the guard.
Costel trying to keep a closed guard but Collins is proving a slippery customer. #SUB#
Costel looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
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!
Collins looking to pass the guard. #T1#
Costel manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Collins manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
Costel stands and throws Collins's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Collins felt the need to train up his defensive grappling in the buildup to the fight. Presumably he was expecting to be in a difficult position like this, so let's see if he can get out of it.#SU#
Costel decides to stand up, so the ref orders Collins to his feet.
Costel lands three nice shots there - that looked like it hurt! #TD2#
Costel tries to sprawl but Collins drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Costel tries to roll over but Collins keeps him under control.
The fighters are battling for position here. Costel manages to regain full guard. Nice work. #SUB#
Costel escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Collins gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Collins sitting in guard here, content to control. #T2##SUB#
Costel looking for a guillotine here but Collins defends easily.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Collins's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Collins landing with the ground and pound.
Collins is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Costel 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.
Collins wants to control from the top but Costel keeps moving.
Collins with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.#SUB#
Collins got a little sloppy there for a moment and Costel has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Collins has managed to get both his arms back between Costel's legs - danger averted.#T3#
Costel wants to sweep here but Collins controlling him for the moment.
Costel avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Collins stopping the sweep attempt from Costel.
Collins slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up. #SUB#
Costel is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Collins with a flurry of punches that miss.
Collins is looking to work some ground and pound but Costel has wrist control.
Collins landing with the ground and pound.
Collins cracks Costel with a solid left hand.#SUB#
Costel is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Collins is aware though and is defending well.#T4#
Collins wants to pass the guard but Costel is keeping the position.
Costel is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move. #REVR#
Collins wants to improve his position but Costel is controlling well.
Collins has hold of Costel's hands but Costel slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Collins makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Collins.
Collins lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Collins working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Collins trying to control but Costel is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Costel is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
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 Neculai Costel will probably get the nod.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!
#R2#
Costel lands with a hook. Collins tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Collins dives in for a single leg takedown but Costel sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Collins walks into a left hand.
Costel just misses with a punch to the body.
Collins fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Collins swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Collins displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Costel throws out the jab.
Collins takes a swing at Costel's ribcage but misses.
Costel turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Costel displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Collins.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Collins throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Costel smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Costel throws a jab but it's blocked by Collins. #TD2#
Collins drives through with a takedown into guard.
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!
Costel 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.#T1##SUB#
Costel working for a triangle but Collins defends it easily. #SUB#
Collins got a little sloppy there for a moment and Costel has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Collins has managed to get both his arms back between Costel's legs - danger averted.#SUB#
Costel looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Collins passes into side control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Costel regains half guard.
Collins works his way into full mount!
Collins with the ground and pound from mount. #T2#
Collins postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Costel looks a forlorn figure.
Collins landing strikes, looking to finish! #ROC2#
Costel is rocked!
Collins breaks from Costel's wrist control and lands an elbow.
Oh Costel is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Collins landing shots from mount.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Costel is desperately trying to improve his position but Collins has a good base and remains in mount.
Collins lands a shot to the body, followed up by a shot to the exposed head of his trapped opponent.
Collins loads up on a couple of big shots to the head that have Costel scrambling to escape. He can't get free though and several more unanswered shots from Collins land to the head. The referee has no choice but to stop the fight. Collins stands and salutes the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:42 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Misha Collins!
After the big win, Misha Collins made sure to do all the important stuff like thanking his sponsors Sun-Tzu and telling the interviewer how much he loves him.
Neculai Costel spoke after the fight, saying 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 148
Date: Oct 11, 2017

#R1#
Thong Song misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Costel.
Thong Song swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
A punch combination from Costel misses. #TD2#
Costel closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Costel lands in his opponent's guard.
Thong Song will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Costel looking to control the position here, rather than advance. #SUB#
Thong Song looking for a guillotine here but Costel defends easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Thong Song keeping full guard, as Costel tries to pass. #T1#
Costel trying to control but Thong Song is working from the bottom.
Costel throws a big right hand that misses.
Thong Song has his hands on Costel's head, controlling the position.
Costel is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Costel postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Thong Song is looking for a triangle here but Costel uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Thong Song wants to control but Costel postures up.#T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.#SUB2#
Costel goes for an armbar! This could be all over! Wait, no, Thong Song rolls with the submission and now he's on top in Costel's guard! Nice work there by Thong Song!
Costel trying to keep a closed guard but Thong Song is proving a slippery customer. #SUB2#
Costel had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Thong Song defends it easily.
Costel wants to sweep here but Thong Song controlling him for the moment. #SU#
Thong Song decides to stand up and beckons his opponent to follow.
Costel takes a body punch but keeps moving. #T3#
A big left from Thong Song misses.
Thong Song scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Costel doesn't seem bothered though.
Thong Song connects with a solid leg kick.
Costel blocks a head kick by Thong Song.
Costel tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Thong Song defends well and Costel ends up having to push Thong Song into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Chang Thong Song is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Thong Song ducks under a wild hook from Costel.
A low kick from Thong Song misses
and Costel counters with a nice uppercut.
Costel motions for Thong Song to come forward. Costel throws a leg kick but it misses it's target. #TD2#
Costel looking to score a takedown here. Thong Song is defending well but Costel drives through and ends up in Thong Song's guard.
Costel pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Thong Song is keeping the position for now. #SUB#
Thong Song is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Costel throws an elbow that misses. Thong Song uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Costel's guard. Nice move by Thong Song!#REVR##T4##SUB2#
Costel throws his legs up looking to secure a triangle. Oh, that looks pretty tight, I gotta say! Thong Song escapes and throws Costel's legs to the side, diving into side control!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#SUB#
Thong Song thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Costel is trying to get back to half guard.
Thong Song has control of an arm but Costel manages to advance to Thong Song's back!
Costel struggling to keep hold of the position.
Costel has the hooks in. Thong Song is trying to push off one leg but he has to do so cautiously to avoid being submitted.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Neculai Costel will probably get the nod.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action.
#R2#
Costel tries to grapple but his opponent circles
and Thong Song counters with an outside leg kick.
Thong Song is looking to slow Costel down with leg kicks.
Costel takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Thong Song lands a lovely overhand right.
Costel swings for the body but Thong Song moves out of range.
Thong Song takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Thong Song takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Costel keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Thong Song.
Thong Song fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Costel on the side of the head.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Costel.
Costel closes the distance and clinches up with Thong Song, looking for a takedown. Costel pushes Thong Song against the cage but Thong Song circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Thong Song appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
Costel throws a series of punches but Thong Song moves out of range.
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!
Thong Song connects with a right hand. Costel shakes it off.#T1#
Costel tries for a takedown but Thong Song circles away easily
and Thong Song counters with a nice uppercut.
Chang Thong Song has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Neculai Costel.
Thong Song misses with a straight left.
Costel throws out a counter right but Thong Song avoids it with no problem.
Costel throws a hook but Thong Song blocks it.
Thong Song moves into range and connects with a jab.
Thong Song lands a jab to the head.
Neculai Costel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Thong Song throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Costel misses with a few strikes there.
Thong Song throws a body shot but no joy.
Nice body punch from Thong Song.
Thong Song swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Thong Song stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Thong Song wants it to stay on the feet.
A telegraphed right hand from Thong Song misses the target.
Costel pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Costel catches Thong Song with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Thong Song moves out of range as Costel throws a body kick. #T2#
Thong Song connects with a jab.
Thong Song with a hook.
Costel shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it. #TD2#
Costel closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Costel lands in his opponent's guard.
Costel throws a big elbow that misses.
Costel content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Thong Song is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Thong Song is controlling Costel's posture.
Thong Song working a defensive guard here. #T3#
Costel lands a couple of elbows.
Thong Song keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully.
Thong Song avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Costel trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Thong Song keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully.
Costel missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Costel with a flurry of punches that miss. #SUB#
Thong Song looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Thong Song seems keen to control Costel's posture.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.#T4#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Costel working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Costel in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Thong Song keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Costel content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Costel chips away with some ground and pound.
Thong Song controlling Costel's posture.
Costel trying to control the position from guard on top but Thong Song is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Costel works a leg free and moves into half guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Chang Thong Song will probably get the nod.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Costel scores with a jab to the head. #TD2#
Thong Song gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Thong Song controls Costel momentarily but Costel frees himself.
Thong Song utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Thong Song working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Costel.
Costel passes Thong Song's left leg - he's now in half guard.
Thong Song keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Thong Song is not content to let Costel control the position.
Costel passes to full mount! #T1#
Costel controlling the pace for now.
Costel working Thong Song over with strikes here. #SUB2#
Costel is giving the impression that he's looking to ground and pound but he switches suddenly into a beautiful far side armbar! Thong Song is forced to tap! Great finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:40 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Neculai Costel!
Our winner, Neculai Costel, 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.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 143
Date: Sep 15, 2017

#R1##TD#
Costel shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Stark manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
Costel working some strikes from top position.
Costel trying to control the position from guard on top but Stark is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Costel controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Costel won't allow Stark to sweep him here.
Costel has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
Costel postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Stark is trying to control the position but Costel postures up.
Stark 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#
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel is controlling Stark's trapped leg to prevent Stark from advancing to side control.
Costel 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.#SUB#
Costel looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB#
Costel looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#T1#
Costel wants to improve his position but Stark is controlling well.
Stark wants to take a breather but Costel is having none of it.
Costel has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Stark is working away from the top position though.
Stark throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man. #SUB#
Costel looking for submissions off his back.#SUB2#
Stark is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Costel defends it well.
Stark trying to control the action but Costel is working from the bottom.
Costel trying to hold on to Stark's head to control him but Stark postures up. #SUB2#
Costel is defending against the submission attempts here by Stark.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Stark missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Stark trying to mount his opponent but Costel defends it.
Costel is trying to control but can't.
Stark is looking to take a break and control but Costel is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #SUB#
Costel looking for submissions off his back.
Costel wants to control but Stark is keeping busy.
Stark wants to lay and pray for a moment but Costel keeps working.
Stark thows a huge punch but Costel dodges it nicely. #SUB2#
Stark is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there. #T3##SUB2#
Stark is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Costel tries to roll over but Stark keeps him under control.#SUB#
Costel looking for submissions off his back.
Stark wants to free his trapped foot but Costel is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Costel has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Stark is working away from the top position though.#SUB2#
Stark is looking for a kimura here.
Costel trying to control from the bottom. #T4#
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.#SUB2#
Stark is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Costel has managed to free his arm - good work. #SUB#
Costel looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB#
Costel looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Costel looking for submissions off his back.#SUB2#
Stark is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Stark has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Costel 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.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB2#
Stark is working for a submission of some sort. #SUB#
Costel looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Khal Stark will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!
#R2#
Stark misses with a few strikes there.
Stark is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
Stark is looking to score with low kicks.
Khal Stark seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#CL#
Costel has closed the distance and engaged Stark in a clinch.
Costel wants a takedown.
Stark is defending well against a takedown attempt.#TD#
Costel has hold of one of Stark's legs. Stark is fighting the takedown attempt but Costel gets the trip and lands the takedown into guard.
Neculai Costel overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Costel wanted to stand there but Stark had control of the position.
Costel lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Stark tries to land a sweep but no joy.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Stark swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Stark is trying to control the position but Costel postures up.
Stark 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.#T1#
Stark is trying to control the position but Costel postures up.
Stark wants to hit a switch here but Costel passes into full mount! Oh no, disaster for Stark there!
Stark is trying to escape the mount.
Costel working Stark over with strikes here. #SUB#
Costel working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet. #SUB#
Costel is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Stark can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.
Stark can't escape the position. #T2##SUB#
Costel is working on an americana here. Ooh, that looks pretty nasty! Nope, Stark has managed to escape the submission attempt.
Costel punishing his opponent with strikes.
Costel trying to control but he's not successful this time.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Costel sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.
Stark tries to hold on but Costel postures up.
Costel lands with some strikes.
Costel landing punches. #T3#
Costel controlling the pace for now.
Stark is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Costel fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
Costel lands a big shot there that rocks Stark but he's holding on and managing to survive for now.
Costel avoids the attempt from Stark to control.
Costel landing shots from mount.
Costel lands with some strikes.
Stark is wriggling around trying to escape.
Costel looking to finish Stark with some ground and pound. This is bad for Stark!#SUB#
Costel working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet.
Costel looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here. #T4#
Costel unloading with bombs!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
BOOM! Costel connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Costel breaks from Stark's wrist control and lands an elbow. #ROC#
Stark is rocked!
Stark wants to hold on but Costel pushes him away.
Costel is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Stark can do to turn this around?
Stark is trying to escape the mount.
Costel landing strikes from the mount.
Stark in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
Stark takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
Costel putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Costel looking to finish Stark with some ground and pound. This is bad for Stark!
Costel pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Stark is still in real trouble! Can Costel finish him?
Stark tries to hold on but Costel postures up.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that second round.
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#
Costel shoots for a double leg takedown but Stark sprawls well. He's pushed Costel's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Stark seems to have recovered his senses.
Stark is looking to clinch.
Stark bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Stark shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Stark misses with a head kick.
Stark throws an overhand right that lands on Costel's shoulder, as Costel tries to avoid the shot.
No joy there for Stark, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Costel is looking to slow Stark down with leg kicks. #CL#
Costel clinches up with Stark and pushes him back against the cage.
Costel wants a takedown.
Stark throws a head punch that misses.
Stark prevents the takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Neculai Costel. 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.#TD#
Costel gets the body lock takedown. After a quick scramble, Stark regains guard.
Stark keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Costel is really struggling to control Stark but he's trying to hold on to the position.
Stark looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T1#
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Costel accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Costel trying to control but Stark is working from the bottom.
Stark is pulling down on Costel's head. It's preventing any offense from Costel, at least for the moment.
Costel is pushing down on Stark's leg trying to pass to half guard. Stark is fighting to maintain full guard but Costel has managed to sneak the leg through.
Stark tries to get to full guard but Costel has control of the leg.
Stark won't allow Costel to pass to mount.
Stark wants to control but Costel is keeping busy.
Costel trying to control the action but Stark is working from the bottom. #T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Costel lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Costel is looking to take a break and control but Stark is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Stark keeping control of the position.
Costel landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent. #SUB#
Costel is working for a kimura but Stark is defending it quite comfortably.
Costel is nestled in close to Stark, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.#T3#
Costel throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Costel trying to mount his opponent but Stark defends it.
Stark is trying to control but can't.
Stark wants to sweep but Costel has passed to side control!
Stark tries to bench press Costel off him but Costel keeps the position.
Stark can't do much from the bottom here.
Stark takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Costel working the ground and pound. #T4##SUB#
Costel tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Costel has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Costel is chipping away with strikes.
Costel lands a nice forearm strike. #SU#
Costel decides to take the fight back to the feet.
Costel throws a right and a left that Stark avoids nicely.
A jab from Costel misses.
Costel missing with a left hand there. Stark was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Costel lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Stark misses with a straight right.
Costel throws a big counter combination but Stark scrambles out of danger and avoids any damage.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Costel darts in looking for a takedown but Stark gets double underhooks and turns Costel into the cage. #CL2#
Stark moves into the clinch successfully.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Costel is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Stark pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Stark misses with a short punch on the inside.

And that's the end of the fight!
Neculai Costel showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Costel has won this one but let's see what the judges have to say. 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 Matti Vanhoillinen scores the fight 29:27
Judge Tarja Halkonen scores the fight 30:27
Judge Arvi Lind scores the fight 29:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Neculai Costel!
During a confident post fight interview, Neculai Costel thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.
The defeated Khal Stark had this to say: 'Thanks to everyone!'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 138
Date: Aug 16, 2017

#R1#
Jetson ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Costel shoots for a takedown but Jetson saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Costel darts in looking for a takedown but Jetson gets double underhooks and turns Costel into the cage.
It seemed like Jetson was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Jetson tries a head kick but it misses.
Costel feinted with a counter takedown.
Jetson lands with a good body shot.
Costel closes this distance looking for a takedown but Jetson circles away.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Neculai Costel. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Jetson throws a hook but Costel avoids it easily.
Costel misses with a takedown attempt
and Jetson connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Costel throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Jetson swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Costel throws a nice outside leg kick. #TD#
Costel looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Costel is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Jetson controls Costel momentarily but Costel frees himself.
Costel looking to pass the guard.
Jetson is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
We've been hearing good reports from Costel's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.#T1#
Jetson keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully.
Jetson trying to keep a closed guard but Costel is proving a slippery customer.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Costel accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Costel tries to free his leg and advance position but Jetson is retaining full guard. #SUB2#
Jetson is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Costel trying to control but Jetson is working from the bottom. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Costel passes into half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Jetson is trying to maintain the position but Costel is very close to passing his half guard.
Jetson is looking for a sweep. Costel is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#SUB2#
Jetson actively working from the bottom here.#SUB2#
Jetson actively working from the bottom here.
Costel wants to pass to mount but Jetson is defending the position.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Costel thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas. #T3#
Costel looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Jetson with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Jetson regains full guard. Nicely done.
Jetson is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Costel is looking to stand up but Jetson won't let him.
Costel loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Jetson has momentary wrist control but Costel slips an elbow through the middle.
Jetson is pulling down on Costel's head to control his posture.
Jetson 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.
Jetson controlling Costel's posture.
Costel is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.#T4#
Costel sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Jetson's guard.
Costel looks to score some points with some ground and pound.#SU#
Costel decides to stand up.
Costel lands an overhand right.
Jetson misses with a low kick as Costel jumps back.
Costel slips a jab and a cross from Jetson.
A left lands for Costel.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Costel shoots in for a takedown but Jetson shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Riff Jetson is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Costel throws out a loose jab but Jetson uses good head movement to avoid it.
Jetson leaves Costel with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!
#R2#
Jetson throws a nice inside leg kick.
Jetson throws a half hearted mid kick.
Jetson takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Costel shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Jetson as he avoids it easily.
Costel tries to score with a low kick but Jetson moves his leg out of the way.
Costel misses with a series of wild punches.
Jetson feints and then cracks Costel's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Costel down.
Costel looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
and Jetson connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Costel lands a really nice looking cross but Jetson seems unphased.
Costel shoots in and drives through. Jetson sprawls well.
Jetson avoids the head kick by Costel.
A clash of legs there as Jetson blocks the low kick.#T1#
Costel moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Costel takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Costel takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Neculai Costel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Jetson throws a body shot but no joy.
Costel throws a big counter combination but Jetson scrambles out of danger and avoids any damage.
Costel lands with a head kick! That's gotta hurt.
Costel throws a right hand that misses
and Jetson makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
A good leg kick by Jetson.
Costel on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Sloppy strikes from Costel. Those never looked like landing.
Costel takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Jetson attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Jetson's jab looks to have found its range, popping Costel under the eye.
Costel bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Jetson changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Jetson rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Costel counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work. #T2#
Jetson throws a hook but Costel avoids it easily.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Costel.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Neculai Costel. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Jetson is looking to slow Costel down with leg kicks.
Costel throws the left hand but Jetson avoids the punch easily.
Jetson fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Costel.
Jetson looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Costel throwing a counter right hand but Jetson manages to avoid it.
Nice takedown defense from Jetson. No joy for Costel on that attempt.
Jetson feints a counter leg kick.
Costel shoots in for a double leg but Jetson sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Jetson delivers a nice body kick.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Costel on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Jetson moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Jetson throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Jetson scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.#T3#
Costel looks to score with a jab to the body but Jetson is just out of range.
Jetson lands a nice leg kick that just misses Costel's sensitive parts.
Riff Jetson seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Jetson lands a body shot.
A nice inside leg kick there by Costel. That's going to slow Jetson down.
Thud! ouch! good body kick from Jetson - that will leave a mark!
Jetson showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Costel.
A little jabbing left from Jetson on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Costel fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
A nice side step and Jetson releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Jetson misses with a straight right.
Costel dives in for a single leg takedown but Jetson sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Costel.
Jetson ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Costel moves away.
Jetson misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Costel. #T4#
Costel has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Jetson.
Jetson with a jab.
Costel connects with a body shot that sends Jetson's belly button to the back.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Costel takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Costel on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
Jetson steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Costel.
Jetson is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Costel with a body shot.
Jetson lands with an uppercut that bounces Costel off the cage and back into range.
Costel lands a nice looking body shot.
A slapping body kick lands there for Jetson.
Costel takes a punch to the jaw and another one to the bread basket.
Jetson lands a jab.#ROC2#
Costel is rocked!
Costel throws a head kick that Jetson semi-blocks.
Oh Costel is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Costel takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Costel seems to have got his legs back now.
Jetson connects with a body shot.
Costel tries to clinch but fails miserably
and Jetson counters with a solid body kick.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Riff Jetson showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Costel misses with a hook to the body
and Jetson counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Jetson goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Jetson throws a leg kick but Costel checks it.
Jetson uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Costel.
Jetson scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Costel keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab. #TD#
Costel shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Jetson napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Jetson struggling a bit here.
Jetson sneaks back into half guard.
Nice strikes from Costel there.
Jetson felt the need to train up his defensive grappling in the buildup to the fight. Presumably he was expecting to be in a difficult position like this, so let's see if he can get out of it.
Jetson is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Costel winds up and cracks Jetson with a swinging punch to the side of the head. #T1#
Jetson wants to get back to full guard.
Neculai Costel overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Jetson keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Jetson is looking to control Costel's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Jetson avoid being mounted?
Jetson is refusing to be controlled, as Costel sits in half guard.
Jetson won't allow Costel to pass to mount.
Costel looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Jetson with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position. #SUB#
Costel is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Jetson works his way to full guard. Good work.#T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.#SUB2#
Costel is posturing up here but Jetson has hold of an arm and he's gone for an armbar! Costel tries to roll out but it's too tight and Costel has to tap! Slick submission there by Jetson!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:31 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Riff Jetson!
In defeat, Neculai Costel stepped up to the mic, saying 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 133
Date: Jul 21, 2017

#R1#
Costel shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Pake pinned against the cage. Pake gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Costel has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Pride in the buildup to the fight.
Costel doesn't succeed with the takedown
enabling Pake to counter with a crisp jab. #KD2#
Oooooh!!! Pake has knocked Costel down with a huge combo! Pake steps away and waves a wobbly Costel back to his feet! This one might not go much longer!#ROC2#
Costel is rocked!
Costel tries for a takedown but Pake circles away easily
and Pake counters with a beautiful right hand that knocks Costel out cold! What a finish! Pake is going crazy, running around the mat, summersaulting off the corner posts and screaming into the cameras. Something tells me he's pretty happy!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:29 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Derui Pake!
During a confident post fight interview, Derui Pake thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.
In defeat, Neculai Costel stepped up to the mic, saying 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 129
Date: Jun 26, 2017

#R1#
Costel with a poor takedown
and Thong Song cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
A big right from Costel misses.
Thong Song looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.#TD#
Costel shoots in and bounces Thong Song off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
Thong Song controls Costel momentarily but Costel frees himself.
Thong Song is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
Costel has decided he wants to stand but the closed guard of Thong Song is proving hard to escape from.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel throws a strike but Thong Song rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVB#
Costel is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far. #ES#
Costel has managed to wall walk up one of the corner posts to get back to his feet. Thong Song is pushing him up against the cage, looking to control the position.#T1##BC#
Costel escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Costel is trying hard to land a takedown here. Thong Song sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Thong Song looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.#TD#
Costel shoots in and gets a takedown into Thong Song's guard.
Thong Song is trying to control the position but Costel postures up.
Costel working some strikes from top position.
Costel keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Thong Song's head.
Costel preventing the sweep.
Costel might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Thong Song is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.
Costel wanted to stand there but Thong Song had control of the position. #T2#
Thong Song is adopting a defensive guard.
The referee is asking the fighters to pick up the pace.
Costel postures up in Thong Song's guard and throws a big left but Thong Song blocks it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SU#
Thong Song is working an open guard so Costel takes the opportunity to get back to his feet.
Costel throws a nice looking combination but Thong Song bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
A countering left hand to the body from Thong Song misses.
Thong Song slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Costel ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Thong Song moves away.#T3#
Costel tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Thong Song displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Costel.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Neculai Costel. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Costel takes a swing at Thong Song's ribcage but misses.
Chang Thong Song is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Thong Song takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Thong Song takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Costel lands with a hook. Thong Song tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Thong Song slaps away a takedown attempt from Costel, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Costel on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Thong Song. Thong Song obviously looking to wear him down.
A jab from Thong Song does it's job there.
Costel uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Thong Song.
Costel lands a nice shot to the body.
A low kick from Costel is predictable there
and Thong Song counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#T4#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Costel lands a jab-cross combination.
Costel throws a body shot but no joy.
Thong Song avoids the body shot from Costel. #TD#
Costel shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Costel was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!#SU#
Costel stands up.
A jab from Thong Song misses.
Costel scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Neculai Costel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Costel jabs at Thong Song's body.
Costel scores with a nice strike.
Costel scores with a jab. Thong Song acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Costel throws the left hand but Thong Song avoids the punch easily.
Costel checks the leg kick nicely there.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that round.
That's time! Costel's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.
#R2#
The fighters circle momentarily. Costel darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Costel is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Thong Song can do to turn this around?
Costel shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Thong Song as he avoids it easily.
Costel shoots in looking for a takedown but Thong Song manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Costel's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Costel shoots in looking for a takedown. Thong Song tries to sprawl out of it but Costel keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Thong Song manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Neculai Costel. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Costel moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Neculai Costel is winning the standup battle so far.
A punch combination from Costel misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Costel misses with a lunging right hand
and Thong Song counters with a nice leg kick.
Costel lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Costel tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Thong Song paws at him with a jab and circles away.
A little jabbing left from Thong Song on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
A punch combination from Costel misses. #T1#
Costel looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Thong Song throws a big counter head kick but Costel avoids it with no problem.
Costel misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Thong Song waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Costel.
Thong Song connects with a good right hand that stumbles Costel. Costel circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Thong Song takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Thong Song throws a big shot that misses.
Costel half committed to a counter leg kick.
Costel swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Costel throws a body punch but Thong Song moves out of range.
Costel throws a right and a left that Thong Song avoids nicely.
Costel lands a jab to the nose.
Costel takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Costel throws a jab but it's blocked by Thong Song.
Thong Song doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.#TD#
Costel scores with a takedown into Thong Song's guard.#T2#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Thong Song is trying to control the position but Costel postures up.
Thong Song is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control. #SU#
Thong Song is working an open guard so Costel takes the opportunity to get back to his feet.
Costel scores with a punch to the head.
Thong Song defending well as Costel loads up on a big left hand.
Thong Song throws a fast counter high kick but Costel manages to duck under it in time.
Nice cross by Thong Song.
Thong Song keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Costel.
Costel needs to keep his hands up - Thong Song had a free shot at his head there.#ROC2#
Costel is rocked!
Thong Song scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Oh Costel is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Thong Song walks into a jab.
Thong Song jabs Costel right on the nose. Costel blinks but takes it well.#T3#
Costel scores with a nice head shot.
Thong Song misses the jab.
Costel misses with a head kick.
Costel falls off balance throwing a combination
and Thong Song makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Thong Song lands with a straight right. Costel didn't see that one coming.
Costel misses with an uppercut. Thong Song saw that one coming.
Thong Song ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Thong Song keeping at a good range here, avoiding a leg kick.
Costel throws a hook to the side of Thong Song's head but Thong Song sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Costel throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Thong Song flicks out a counter leg kick but Costel steps away.
BOOM! Thong Song lands a beautiful left hook that drops Costel. Costel tries to recover but Thong Song is having none of it, landing more punishing shots from mount. One final crushing shot and Costel lies motionless on the canvas. The fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:34 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Chang Thong Song! Chang Thong Song retains his featherweight title!
In his post fight interview, Chang Thong Song started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.
The defeated Neculai Costel had this to say: 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 120
Date: May 19, 2017

#R1#
That kick from Costel tenderised Tuft's leg. Tuft is trying to keep his angry face on.
Costel on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Tuft throws a nice looking combination but Costel bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.#TD#
Costel scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Costel lands with a punch from half guard.
Costel thows a huge punch but Tuft dodges it nicely.
Tuft wants to get back to his feet.
Costel scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Costel missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Costel trying to pass the guard but Tuft defending well.
Costel throwing shots but Tuft is blocking nicely. #T1#
Costel not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Tuft looks like he's trying to stand up.
Costel lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Costel controlling the action here. #SUB#
Costel is looking for a kimura but Tuft is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Costel to get the leverage.
Costel trying to control the action but Tuft is working from the bottom.
Costel perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Tuft avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Costel. #SUB#
Costel is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Tuft is just riding it out for now. Costel eventually gives up the hold.
Costel trying to pass the guard but Tuft defending well.
Costel works his foot free and advances to mount.
Costel scoring with strikes but Tuft is staying in there. #T3#
Costel lands a couple of good shots and Tuft has given up his back, trying to escape the position!
Costel misses with an elbow to the head.
Tuft can't escape the position.
Costel gets his hands free as Tuft looks to control.
Tuft tries to escape but Costel has the hooks in and won't let him break free.
Tuft covering up well under a series of strikes from Costel.
Costel missing with strikes. #SUB#
Costel is working for the rear naked choke. He has one arm under the chin but Tuft has hold of the other arm. A bit of a stalemate here.
Tuft trying to control the action but Costel just sinks the hooks in. #T4#
Costel lands strikes to the head. #SUB#
Costel looking for the choke but no joy.
Tuft is trying to get back to his feet but Costel has full control of the position and if anything, Tuft has just worked his way into a worse spot.#SUB#
Costel is working for the choke. It looks like he might have got it... has he...? Yes! Tuft is tapping out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Neculai Costel!
Our winner, Neculai Costel, 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.
In defeat, Gunnar Tuft stepped up to the mic, saying 'Damn grapplers, pff. '.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 115
Date: Apr 29, 2017

#R1#
Horrible takedown attempt by Edgar or perhaps it was just good defense by Costel, which made it look bad.
Edgar misses with a left hand #TD#
and Costel counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Edgar!
Costel is maintaining the dominant position - no doubt Edgar will start to get frustrated soon if he's not already.
Costel trying to control the position but Edgar is working away.
Edgar struggling a bit here.
Costel is looking to take a break and control but Edgar is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Edgar parries the strikes from Costel easily there. Costel is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Edgar to escape.
Sloppy strikes there by Costel.#T1#
Costel wants to control but Edgar is keeping him busy.
Edgar really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Costel. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Edgar is trying to escape the position but Costel is controlling the position.
Costel 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.
Costel sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Edgar is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Costel in side control, just content to control the action for now.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Edgar managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Costel.
Edgar takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.
You can see the frustration on Edgar's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
An elbow from Costel crashes against the mat.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T2#
Costel 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. #SUB#
Costel wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Edgar, who protects the arm well.
Costel looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Edgar is avoiding damage well.
Edgar parries the strikes from Costel easily there. Costel is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Edgar to escape. #SUB#
Costel is trying to get an arm triangle but Edgar is defending well.
Costel working the head with strikes.
Costel misses with an attempted head punch from side control.
Costel working away.#T3#
Edgar tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Costel wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Costel working the ground and pound from side control.
A lull in the action here.
Edgar can't do much from the bottom here.
Edgar defending against the ground and pound.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Costel lands a decent elbow from side control.
Edgar sneaks back into half guard.
Costel wants to control but Edgar is keeping him busy.
Costel is taking a breather. Edgar 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.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Edgar can do anything to dispel that myth.#T4#
Edgar is looking to improve his position.
Costel lands with a punch from half guard.
Edgar avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Costel.
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. Costel connects with a nice short shot to Edgar's temple.
Edgar is staying active underneath Costel, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Costel throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Edgar avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Costel.
Costel trying to control from half guard but Edgar is working away.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!
#R2#
Edgar throws a shot from downtown. Costel moves away and avoids it.#TD2#
Edgar closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Costel did well to prevent Edgar getting side control.
Costel has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Edgar is working away from the top position though.
Costel is pressing down on Edgar's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Costel wants to sweep here but Edgar controlling him for the moment.
Costel is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Edgar can do to turn this around?#SUB#
Costel has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Edgar can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Costel not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Costel is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Edgar is aware though and is defending well.#SUB#
Costel is looking for a triangle but Edgar pushes his legs off easily.
Edgar throws an elbow that misses. Costel uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Edgar's guard. Nice move by Costel!#REVR##T1#
Costel is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.#SUB#
Costel drops back for a leg here. A bit of a high risk move... He's looking for a kneebar by the looks of things. Now both of them are looking for submissions. Costel seems to have locked his on tight now - Edgar screams in pain and taps out furiously! It certainly was a high risk move but it's paid off for Costel, as he picks up the win!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:29 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kneebar). Neculai Costel!
A victorious Neculai Costel thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 106
Date: Mar 25, 2017

#R1##CL#
I Can gets tackled into the cage by Costel. Costel maintains the clinch.
I Can swings wildly with an uppercut but Costel uses good head movement to avoid it.
Costel is trying to drag I Can to the mat but I Can just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Costel is looking for a takedown up against the cage. I Can gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Costel wants a takedown but no success here.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Neculai Costel. That's going to take a lot out of him.#TD#
Costel has managed to pull guard. Let's see whether he can work an aggressive guard. It will also be interesting to see what tactics I Can uses from the top position. #ES#
Costel is edging up against the cage. He's using the cage to get back to his feet. Nice work there - the fighters are clinched.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel is looking to take this one to the mat.
I Can is trying to pull guard but Costel has him pressed against the cage.
Costel blocks a couple of punches on the inside. #T1#
I Can misses with a hook to the ribs. #BC#
Costel pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
I Can swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.#TD#
Costel throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. I Can was covering up waiting for the punch and Costel finishes the takedown easily into guard.
I Can is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
I Can being controlled here, momentarily.
Costel lands a couple of decent looking shots.#T2#
Costel works over I Can with some ground and pound from guard.#SUB2#
I Can throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Costel is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Costel has controlled the position for a good 20 seconds, which will no doubt be starting to frustrate his opponent.
Costel wants to stand but I Can has a closed guard, so he can't escape.
Costel landing some decent shots from guard. #SUB2#
I Can throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Costel has decided he wants to stand but the closed guard of I Can is proving hard to escape from.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T3#
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Costel connects with a couple of short punches.
I Can trying to control the position.
Costel looking to control the position here, rather than advance. #SU#
Costel gets to his feet. I Can looking to butt scoot but the ref puts an end to that. On your feet son!
A punch combination from Costel misses.
I Can has been working on his striking defense in training and it's paying off as Costel is landing a low percentage of strikes.
Costel tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but I Can paws at him with a jab and circles away.#CL#
Costel pushes I Can up against the cage in a clinch.
Costel lands with a short punch from the clinch. #T4##BC#
Costel escapes the clinch and we're back to striking. #TD#
Costel darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
I Can is looking to improve his position.
Costel is thwarting I Can's attempts to control the position.
We've been hearing that Costel has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
I Can tries to roll over but Costel keeps him under control.
Costel sitting and controlling from the half guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
I Can is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!
#R2#
I Can looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.#CL#
Costel fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with I Can, pushing him back against the cage.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Costel. #TD#
Costel gets double underhooks and manages to take the fight to the ground.
Costel controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Costel has decided he wants to stand but the closed guard of I Can is proving hard to escape from. #SUB2#
I Can looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
I Can wants to control but Costel passes easily into half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel is thwarting I Can's attempts to control the position.
I Can on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Costel works his way into full mount! #T1#
Costel controlling from mount.
Costel breaks from I Can's wrist control and lands an elbow.
Costel punishing his opponent with strikes.
Costel controlling from mount.
Costel avoids the attempt from I Can to control.
Costel tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
I Can really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Costel takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Costel is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that I Can can do to turn this around?#T2#
I Can working to try and regain half guard.
The referee warns I Can that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head.
Costel content just to control the position here.
I Can is looking to improve his position but Costel isn't that keen on the idea.#SUB#
Costel is working for a guillotine from mount but I Can frees his head quite easily.
I Can takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
Costel looking to control and managing it successfully.
Costel pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.#T3#
BOOM! Costel connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Costel looking to control and managing it successfully.
Costel breaks from I Can's wrist control and lands an elbow.
I Can tries to hold on but Costel pushes him away.
Costel scores with a couple of good head shots there.
Costel controlling the pace for now.
Costel unloading with bombs!
I Can gets back to half guard.
Costel stalling.
Costel lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt. #T4#
I Can works his way to full guard. Good work.
Costel works over I Can with some ground and pound from guard.
I Can 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.
Costel is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Costel working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of I Can's head.
Costel not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Costel trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
I Can looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Costel showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that second round.
That's time! Back to the action!
#R3##CL#
Costel has managed to clinch.
Costel working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Costel is looking to take this one to the mat.
A short right from Costel on the inside.
Costel has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by I Can after a bit of a struggle.
I Can fails to land with a short punch on the inside. #BC#
Costel breaks the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#CL#
Costel has taken the fight to the clinch.
Costel working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Costel fails to land with a short punch on the inside. #TD#
Costel pulls guard. #T1##ES#
Costel is edging up against the cage. He's using the cage to get back to his feet. Nice work there - the fighters are clinched.
I Can prevents the takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Neculai Costel. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Costel can't find room to land a body shot as I Can controls the action.
Costel is looking for a takedown up against the cage. I Can gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Costel wants to break free but I Can has control.
Costel blocks a couple of punches on the inside. #BC#
Costel's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
I Can is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
A shot to the body from I Can misses
and Costel counters with a nice uppercut.
Neculai Costel is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
I Can jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Costel with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling I Can to score with a decent uppercut.#T2##CL#
Costel clinches up with I Can and pushes him back against the cage.#BC#
Costel escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
A telegraphed right hand from I Can misses the target.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
I Can misses with a looping left.
Costel feints and then cracks I Can's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow I Can down. #CL#
Costel gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Costel is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but I Can is defending well.
I Can goes for a takedown in the clinch but Costel prevents it.
Costel has I Can pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. I Can manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Costel is working for takedown but I Can is calmly controlling the position for now.
Costel goes for a takedown in the clinch but I Can prevents it.
Neculai Costel has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Costel changes levels and goes for a takedown here. I Can fights it off and pushes away nicely. #T3##CL#
Costel gets a clinch. #TD#
Costel is working on a single leg takedown against the cage. I Can can't fight it off and eventually Costel manages to take the fight to the floor. I Can looks annoyed but at least he's managed to land in guard.
I Can is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Costel engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Costel passes I Can's left leg - he's now in half guard. #T4#
I Can tries to regain full guard. Instead though, Costel has advanced to mount. Uh oh.
Neculai Costel overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Costel controlling from mount.
I Can is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Costel tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel clearly takes that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!
#R4#
Costel is trying hard to land a takedown here. I Can sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet. #CL#
Costel drives through and clinches with I Can against the cage.
Costel goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
I Can misses with a punch on the inside.
Costel working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.#BC#
Costel manages to break the clinch.
I Can misses with a combination #CL#
and Costel counters by moving into the clinch. #BC#
Costel's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
I Can jabbing away but nothing is landing.
I Can throws a lazy uppercut
and Costel counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Costel avoids a punch combination nicely.
I Can pushing out the jab but it's not landing. #T1#
I Can lands a really nice looking cross but Costel seems unphased. #TD2#
I Can feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
I Can is absolutely dripping with sweat - he looks exhausted.
I Can stops Costel from standing up.
Costel keeping moving, preventing I Can from controlling successfully.
I Can prevents Costel from getting back to his feet. #ES#
Costel pushes I Can off for just long enough to get back to his feet. Very athletic spring there. #CL#
Costel drives through and clinches with I Can against the cage. #TD#
I Can is fighting off a takedown attempt but Costel is just too persistent for him and manages to trip I Can to the mat. I Can regains guard as soon as the fighters hit the mat.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Costel's corner is telling him to maintain position.
I Can is looking to sweep but instead, Costel has passed into half guard.
I Can tries to get to full guard but Costel has control of the leg. #T2#
I Can wants to get back to full guard but Costel has mounted him!
Costel controlling from the full mount.
I Can tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Costel takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
I Can can't escape the position. #T3#
Costel working the ground and pound effectively.
I Can 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.
I Can is looking to improve his position.
It looks like Costel is going to stand back up.
Costel is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Costel landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Costel tries to pass to full mount but I Can defends it. #T4#
Still in half guard, Costel seems content to control.
Costel 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.
I Can slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Costel is pushing down on I Can's leg trying to pass to half guard. I Can is fighting to maintain full guard but Costel has managed to sneak the leg through.
I Can is looking to improve his position.
Costel working the head and body with strikes.
Costel is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
I Can trying to hold on to Costel's head to control him but Costel postures up. #SU#
Costel decides to return to a standing position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel had his way with Because I Can in that round.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. Let's get this one finished - here comes the final round!
#R5##TD#
Costel drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Costel is staying tight to I Can's torso, preventing him from escaping.
I Can wants to control but Costel postures up.
Costel is working I Can over with some ground and pound from side control.
Costel lands a few punches from side control.
Costel taking a breather here.
Costel trying to control the action but I Can is working from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A lull in the action here.#T1#
Costel landing a few strikes. #SU#
Costel has had enough of the ground for now and decides to stand.
Costel dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Neculai Costel is winning the standup battle so far.
I Can throws a poor cross that misses
and Costel makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
I Can lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.
I Can is wobbling all over the place through exhaustion. Will he make it to the final bell?
Costel digs a good body shot into I Can's ribs.
Costel scoring well with a low kick there.
I Can on the wrong end of a nice hook.
I Can fails with a takedown attempt.#T2#
Costel tries to close the distance and clinch up but I Can swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Costel connects with a looping right hand.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Costel slips a jab and a cross from I Can.
I Can shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Costel counters with a lovely straight right hand!#ROC#
I Can is rocked!#TD#
Costel dives in and gets a big takedown. He lands in full mount and immediately unloads a series of heavy strikes! I Can has had enough and taps out.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:31 of round 5, we have a winner by way of Submission (Strikes). Neculai Costel!
A very excited looking Neculai Costel made sure he remembered to thank all the fans both in the arena and on the internet. He said all the coolest people spend all day on MMA websites, which got a big reaction.
Because I Can spoke after the fight, saying 'I'm so handsome i'm not surprised this guy was all over me the way he was!'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 98
Date: Feb 18, 2017

#R1#
Stark tries to land a front kick but Costel steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Costel tries to clinch but Stark is having none of it.
Stark throws a lazy uppercut
and Costel counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Stark connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.#TD#
Costel gets a takedown into half guard.#ES2#
Stark kicks off Costel and gets to his feet.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Good exchange - Stark coming out on top.
Stark scores with a jab to the jaw.
Stark misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too. #CL#
Costel clinches up against the cage.
Stark tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Costel avoids it.
Stark wants to break free. God knows he wants to breaaaak freeee.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Costel as Stark tries to tie him up.
Costel looking for a takedown.
Costel has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Stark is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
A shot in the inside from Stark.
Costel is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Stark gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Neculai Costel. That's going to take a lot out of him.#T1#
Costel is working for takedown but Stark is calmly controlling the position for now.
Costel is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Stark gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
A frustrated look appears on Stark's face as he tries to break the clinch.
Costel lands a right hand that snaps the head of Stark backwards. #BC2#
Stark manages to break the clinch.
Stark stuffs the takedown attempt from Costel. Costel gets slowly back to his feet.
Stark steps in looking to counter with the mid kick but it doesn't connect.
Stark throws an off balance right hand
and Costel counters with a body kick.
Costel on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Stark 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.
Stark has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.
Costel fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Stark listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Costel fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Stark unleashes a big counter combination but Costel bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
Stark's corner calls for a 1, 2 combination and Stark duly obliges. #ROC2#
Costel is rocked!
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
A punch combination from Stark misses.
Oh Costel is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Stark throws a body shot but no joy.
Costel looks to throw the jab but Stark is out of range.
Stark throws out a powerful jab.#CL#
Costel clinches with his opponent.
Stark pushes off and fires off an elbow that misses, before clinching up again, against the cage.
Costel swings away with an uppercut that misses.
A head punch on the inside from Stark fails to land. #T2#
Costel wants to take the fight to the mat but Stark manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
Stark working aggressively here.
Costel tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked. #BC#
Costel pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Stark drops Costel with a naaaaasty hook - Costel is in real trouble here! Stark dives in to side control and pounds out his opponent for a TKO victory! The crowd goes nuts!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:14 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Khal Stark!
Khal Stark is the new featherweight champion!
A loyal slave to those sponsorship dollars, Khal Stark made sure he mentioned Zenith Nutrition (160q/225$), along with how happy he was to win his fight.
Neculai Costel was interviewed post fight and said 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 91
Date: Jan 21, 2017

#R1##TD#
Greenebaum looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Costel!
Greenebaum throwing strikes but Costel manages to buck up and roll into a nice reversal - now he's on top in side control!
Greenebaum manages to work his way to half guard, despite Costel's best efforts.
Costel looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Greenebaum tries to get to full guard but Costel has control of the leg.
Costel controlling the action here.
Costel throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage. #T1#
Costel throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Greenebaum has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Costel lands a nice short elbow.
Costel wants to control but Greenebaum is keeping him busy.
Costel looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Greenebaum with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Costel thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Greenebaum's head.
Greenebaum tries to get to full guard but Costel has control of the leg.
Costel throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Costel seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Greenebaum does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #SUB2#
Costel is looking for submissions but instead, Greenebaum has regained full guard.
Greenebaum is trying to control the position from the bottom. #T2#
Costel is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound. #SUB#
Greenebaum is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Costel sitting in guard here, content to control.
Costel trying to control but Greenebaum is working from the bottom.
Greenebaum wants to sweep but no luck. #T3#
Costel is pushing down on Greenebaum's leg trying to pass to half guard. Greenebaum is fighting to maintain full guard but Costel has managed to sneak the leg through.
Costel not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Costel drops an elbow to the side of Greenebaum's head.
Costel lands with a punch from half guard.
Costel is trying to control. Greenebaum wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Greenebaum wants to improve his position but Costel is controlling well.
Costel is nestled in close to Greenebaum, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Costel lands with a punch from half guard.
Greenebaum is refusing to be controlled, as Costel sits in half guard.
Costel wants to free his trapped foot but Greenebaum is holding on for dear life with his legs.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Costel working his ground and pound in the gym.#T4#
Greenebaum is refusing to be controlled, as Costel sits in half guard.
Greenebaum wants to control but Costel is keeping busy.
Costel is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Greenebaum wants to improve his position but Costel is controlling well.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Costel lands with a punch from half guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that round.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.
#R2#
The fight stays on the outside here - Costel looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Costel tries to close the distance and clinch but Greenebaum swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Greenebaum changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Costel misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Greenebaum walks into a jab.
Greenebaum fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Costel wants to clinch up but Greenebaum keeps it at a distance.
Costel throws a quick inside leg kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Greenebaum avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Costel has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Costel shoots for a takedown but Greenebaum saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Greenebaum uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Costel.
Costel tries for a takedown but Greenebaum sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Lorne Greenebaum has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Neculai Costel.
Costel doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.#T1#
Greenebaum scores with a hook.
Greenebaum shapes like he's going to throw a leg kick but settles back down.
Costel uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Greenebaum.
Greenebaum looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Greenebaum throws a left and a right that both miss #TD2#
and Costel counters with a single leg into guard. Greenebaum didn't expect that.
Costel is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Costel wants to control from the top but Greenebaum keeps moving.
Costel is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Costel with a flurry of punches that miss. #T2#
Greenebaum looking for a sweep. Not yet Greenebaum, not yet. #SUB2#
Costel postures up as if he's going to throw some strikes but drops back for an ankle! Greenebaum is in big trouble! He looks ready to tap! But no, he's escaped and dives on top of Costel, into his guard. #REVR#
Greenebaum won't allow Costel to get back to his feet. #ES2#
Costel pushes Greenebaum off and scrambles back to his feet.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Greenebaum throws a leg kick which misses Costel's front leg but catches the back leg as Costel tries to avoid it.
Greenebaum looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Greenebaum lands a jab to Costel's midsection.#T3#
Costel lands the left hand.
Greenebaum shoots in but Costel avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Greenebaum looks to score with a jab to the body but Costel is just out of range.
Costel wants to clinch up but Greenebaum keeps it at a distance.#CL2#
Costel gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Costel wants a takedown.
Greenebaum is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Costel lands a left hand that snaps the head of Greenebaum backwards.
Costel lands a right hand that snaps the head of Greenebaum backwards. #TD2#
Costel gets the body lock takedown. After a quick scramble, Greenebaum regains guard.
Costel trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Greenebaum looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Costel with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.#T4##SUB2#
Costel drops back, looking for a kneebar! Greenebaum looks panicked! The fighters roll across the mat, one looking to finish, one looking to escape. Greenebaum looks to have wriggled free... Yes, he's got his leg free and he's dived into side control! Good work there from Greenebaum! #REVR#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Greenebaum cracks Costel with an elbow. That is naaassty.
Greenebaum throwing ground and pound but whilst doing so, he forgets to control position and Costel works his way back to half guard. Good composure under pressure.
Greenebaum throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Costel is trying to stand back up but Greenebaum is controlling him
Costel won't allow Greenebaum to pass to mount.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Back to the action!
#R3#
Costel shoots in for a takedown but Greenebaum shows good takedown defense.
Neculai Costel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Costel blocks a leg kick.
Costel tries for a takedown but Greenebaum circles away easily#TD#
and Greenebaum counters with a single leg into guard. Costel didn't expect that.
Costel is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Greenebaum is controlling him.
Costel keeping moving, preventing Greenebaum from controlling successfully.
Costel has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Costel wants to get back to his feet but he's too absorbed in his own little project and Greenebaum manages to pass to side control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel is trying to stand up here but Greenebaum is controlling him well. #T1##REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Lorne Greenebaum is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.#CL2#
Costel drives through and clinches with Greenebaum against the cage.
Still in the clinch, Costel scores with a nice short uppercut.#BC2#
Costel's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Costel gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily #TD#
and Greenebaum counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Lorne Greenebaum has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Neculai Costel.
Costel is looking to escape.
Costel is staying active underneath Greenebaum, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Costel tries to kick Greenebaum off but Greenebaum keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
Neculai Costel has got the better of the ground game so far.#T2##REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Costel checks a low kick from Greenebaum.
Costel tries to clinch but Greenebaum is having none of it. #CL2#
Costel has closed the distance and engaged Greenebaum in a clinch. #BC#
Greenebaum manages to break the clinch. #CL2#
Costel takes the fight into the clinch.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Costel has Greenebaum pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Greenebaum manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing. #BC#
Greenebaum breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Costel is looking to take this fight into the clinch.#T3#
Costel is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Costel keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Costel keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Greenebaum.#CL2#
Costel pushes Greenebaum up against the cage in a clinch.
Costel lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Costel swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Costel is struggling to control the position.
The pace slowing considerably in the clinch, as Costel takes a break from that fighting nonsense to think about the finer things in life. #BC#
Greenebaum breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance. #CL2#
Costel moves into the clinch.#T4#
Greenebaum is trying to break the clinch but Costel has him pressed against the cage.
Nice body punch from Costel - that landed with a thud.
Greenebaum is looking for a takedown.
Costel lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Costel holding his opponent close, against the cage. #BC2#
Costel breaks the clinch.
Costel is looking to clinch.
Greenebaum is looking to wear down Costel with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
The fighters circle momentarily. Costel darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Greenebaum tried to score with a low kick but Costel checks it.#CL2#
Greenebaum gets tackled into the cage by Costel. Costel maintains the clinch.
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!
Costel misses with some punches.
Greenebaum is trying to slow down the pace in the clinch, to catch his breath.
Costel goes for a takedown in the clinch but Greenebaum prevents it.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close third round but Neculai Costel just about did enough to take it.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!
#R4##TD#
Greenebaum closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth. #ES2#
Costel throws Greenebaum to one side and escapes!
Greenebaum ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Costel moves away.
Greenebaum looks to score with a jab to the body but Costel is just out of range.#CL2#
Costel gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Costel scores with a shot to the side of Greenebaum's head.
Greenebaum trying to stall but Costel improves his position.
Costel is working for takedown but Greenebaum is calmly controlling the position for now.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!#BC2#
Costel escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Costel doesn't manage to clinch there - Greenebaum circles away.
Horrible takedown attempt by Costel or perhaps it was just good defense by Greenebaum, which made it look bad.
Costel tries to clinch #TD#
and Greenebaum decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Costel's guard.#T1#
Greenebaum stops Costel from standing up.
Costel is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.
Greenebaum stands up over Costel, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Costel wants to stand up but Greenebaum is controlling him.
Greenebaum stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Costel swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Costel wants to stand but Greenebaum is controlling the position.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.#REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.#T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Some bone on bone action there as Costel checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one.
Greenebaum misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Lorne Greenebaum is winning the standup battle so far.
Greenebaum swings widly with a right hand
enabling Costel to counter with a crisp jab.
Greenebaum throws a low kick, looking for Costel's leg but Costel calmly moves out of range.
Costel blocks a low kick nicely.
Costel darts in looking for a takedown but Greenebaum gets double underhooks and turns Costel into the cage.
Lorne Greenebaum has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Neculai Costel.
Costel fails with an attempt to clinch.
Greenebaum misses with a jab, cross combination. #CL2#
Costel has managed to clinch.
A short body shot lands from Costel as the two fighters clinch.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Costel stops a takedown attempt from Greenebaum. #TD2#
Greenebaum is fighting off a takedown attempt but Costel is just too persistent for him and manages to trip Greenebaum to the mat. Greenebaum regains guard as soon as the fighters hit the mat.#T3#
Costel slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Costel with a nice head shot there.
Greenebaum looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Costel controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Costel trying to control the position from guard on top but Greenebaum is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
We must be close to a standup if these guys don't pick up the pace.
Greenebaum is looking to sweep but instead, Costel has passed into half guard. #T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Costel not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Greenebaum taking some punishment here, with Costel in his half guard.
Costel performing his best blanket impression for a moment.
Ground and pound from Costel.
Costel stalling away here and it's allowed Greenebaum to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard. #SUB#
Greenebaum escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Costel gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that fourth round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! 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.
#R5##CL2#
Costel closes the distance and clinches.
Costel tries for a takedown but Greenebaum manages to get underhooks. #BC#
Greenebaum pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.#CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.#BC2#
Costel breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Greenebaum chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Costel can pounce on him.
Greenebaum misses the shot to the body.
Costel swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Greenebaum shoots in looking for a takedown but Costel manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Greenebaum's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Nice sprawl there from Greenebaum as Costel shoots in.#CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Costel is trying to stall. #T1##BC2#
Costel breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Greenebaum lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Greenebaum tried to score with a low kick but Costel checks it.
Greenebaum misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Costel. #CL2#
Costel has taken the fight to the clinch. #BC2#
Costel pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Greenebaum throws a leg kick that misses.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Costel.
Lorne Greenebaum has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Neculai Costel.
Costel swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Greenebaum.
Greenebaum takes a swing at Costel's ribcage but misses.
Lorne Greenebaum has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2##CL2#
Costel moves into the clinch.
Costel drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Costel can't get the takedown. #BC#
Greenebaum breaks from the clinch.
Costel tries to clinch but Greenebaum is having none of it.
Greenebaum tries to counter with a takedown but Costel is quick to defend against it.
Greenebaum misses with a leg kick.
Greenebaum shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Costel defends it nicely.
Costel tries to clinch up but Greenebaum circles away and keeps his distance.
Costel lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
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!
Greenebaum avoids the clinch attempt nicely. #T3##CL2#
Costel has closed the distance and engaged Greenebaum in a clinch.
Costel has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Greenebaum is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.#TD2#
Costel has picked Greenebaum up - he's going for a ride! Costel dumps his opponent to the mat with a thud and settles into half guard.
Greenebaum is pressing down on Costel's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Costel is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact. #SUB#
Greenebaum is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Costel defends well.#SUB#
Greenebaum throws his legs up looking for a submission but Costel uses it to pass to side control.
Both of our modern day gladiators look out of it here - a gruelling 5 rounds of action taking it's toll on them, no doubt.#SUB2#
Costel looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything. #T4#
Greenebaum takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Greenebaum tries to bench press Costel off him but Costel keeps the position.
Costel working the head and body with strikes.
Costel is putting a hurting on Greenebaum here, landing some big shots from side control.
Neculai Costel is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
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!
Greenebaum is looking for a sweep.
Greenebaum taking punishment in the form of punches.
Costel creates a bit of distance and throws down some hard shots.

And that's the end of the fight!
Neculai Costel comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Costel winning every round here. Surely the decision will go his way and he'll pick up a well deserved decision victory. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Tarja Halkonen scores the fight 45:50
Judge Roosa Järviläinen scores the fight 45:50
Judge Ben Zyskovitsi scores the fight 45:50

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Neculai Costel!
Neculai Costel is the new featherweight champion!
Our winner, Neculai Costel, 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.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 85
Date: Dec 24, 2016

#R1##CL2#
Costel darts in and clinches Meese up against the cage.
Meese is trying to force a seperation but Costel has the dominant position.#BC2#
Costel's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Costel looks for a takedown but Meese sprawls well.
A little feinted left hand from Meese on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Costel with a poor takedown
and Meese counters with a straight right hand.#CL2#
Costel fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Meese, pushing him back against the cage.
Costel goes for a takedown attempt but Meese pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
Georges Meese has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Neculai Costel.
Meese keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Meese throws an overhand right that lands on Costel's shoulder, as Costel tries to avoid the shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#CL2#
Costel drives through and clinches with Meese against the cage. #TD2#
Costel lands a nice trip takedown into half guard.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Meese looks like he's trying to stand up.
Costel tries to pass to full mount but Meese defends it. #T1#
Costel missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Meese is trying to stand back up but Costel is controlling him
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Costel is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Meese is trying to stand.
Costel sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Meese defending well though. #SUB2#
Costel is working for a submission of some sort. #SUB2#
Meese is defending against the submission attempts here by Costel.
Meese wants to get back to his feet.
Meese tries to push off, looking to stand up, but Costel manages to move to mount! #T2#
Costel has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Meese's face.
Meese's coaches at Holding Cell have been working on his defensive grappling in preparation for this fight so let's see if he can get out of this tricky position.
Meese trying desperately to get to his feet.
Costel with shots to the head and body - Meese looks very uncomfortable down there.
Meese is trying to escape but when you're mounted that's not too easy.
Costel putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Costel punishing his opponent with strikes.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Meese's corner are shouting for him to stand up but that's bad cornering - how is he meant to stand up when he's mounted? He should be looking to improve his position on the ground before trying to stand back up.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Costel with a couple of short strikes.
Meese tries to buck Costel off but he can't manage it.
Costel landing shots from mount.
Meese squirming around on the bottom, looking to escape. #SUB2#
Costel looking to secure an arm triangle but Meese defends it well.
Costel lands a heavy elbow. #ROC2#
Meese is rocked!#T3#
Costel lands a big shot to the head and Meese winces in pain. He's tapped out due to strikes!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Strikes). Neculai Costel!
During a confident post fight interview, Neculai Costel thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 76
Date: Nov 17, 2016

#R1#
Costel misses with a jab, cross combination.
Greenebaum throws a leg kick but Costel moved away.
Greenebaum takes a swing at Costel's ribcage but misses.
Greenebaum takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Costel throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Greenebaum's waist but Greenebaum gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Costel off to one side.
Costel lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.#TD2#
Costel looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
Greenebaum is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Greenebaum is trying to control but can't. #SUB2#
Costel is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game. #SUB2#
Costel is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Greenebaum defends it well.
Greenebaum's coaches at DiscoClub have been working on his defensive grappling in preparation for this fight so let's see if he can get out of this tricky position.#T1#
Greenebaum moves into full guard. #SUB#
Costel lying in Greenebaum's guard like a wet fish here, stalling away. Greenebaum decides he's had enough of all that nonsense - he escapes his hips and locks up an armbar! Wow, that was slick! Costel taps! This one is aaaaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:47 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Lorne Greenebaum!
Lorne Greenebaum retains his featherweight title!
A less than humble Lorne Greenebaum misjudged his post fight interview somewhat and came across a little too arrogant whilst trying to hype up his own abilities.
The defeated Neculai Costel had this to say: 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: MMAHelsinki - 67
Date: Oct 06, 2016

#R1##TD2#
Costel shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
Costel trying to mount his opponent but Conner defends it. #SUB2#
Conner is defending against the submission attempts here by Costel. #SUB2#
Costel is looking for a kimura but Conner is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Costel to get the leverage. #SUB2#
Costel seems to be working for a kimura but Conner defends the submission attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount. #SUB2#
Costel looks like he's working for a submission but he's not found anything just yet.#T1##SUB2#
Costel working for a guillotine from mount but Conner is in no mood to give up. #SUB2#
Costel with some aggressive grappling here. He's looking for submissions here, rather than waiting for the opportunity to counter.
Conner wants to use the cage to get back to his feet here.
Costel fails to move to back control. #SUB2#
Costel has hold of Conner's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and Conner manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger. #SUB2#
Costel working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet. #T2##SUB2#
Costel looking to secure an arm triangle but Conner defends it well. #SUB2#
Costel working for a guillotine from mount but Conner is in no mood to give up.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Costel goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Conner turns into him and now he's in Costel's guard.
Conner knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Costel on the ground.#SU#
Conner decides he's had enough of playing guard and decides to stand. Come on Costel, up you get!
Costel tries for a takedown but Conner circles away easily
and Conner counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head. #T3#
Costel moves out of range of the body kick from Conner.
Conner connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Costel momentarily.
Conner stuffs the takedown attempt from Costel. Costel gets slowly back to his feet.
Conner throws a body shot but no joy.
No joy there for Conner, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Conner doesn't manage to clinch there - Costel circles away.
Costel with the counter takedown but Conner avoids it easily.
Costel misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Damien Conner has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Neculai Costel.
Costel looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Conner looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Damien Conner is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Conner scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.#T4#
Costel ducks under a wild hook from Conner.
Costel drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Conner defends it well.
Costel uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Conner.#TD2#
Costel closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
This has been an exciting period of action!#SUB2#
Costel swings around for an armbar but Conner sees it coming a mile off and turns beautifully into Costel's guard.#SU#
Conner gets to his feet - Costel follows without any prompting.
Costel dives in and grabs Conner's left leg, looking for a takedown. Conner pushes down on Costel's head and hops out.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Conner.
Costel misses with a leg kick
and Costel takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Costel avoids a punch combination nicely.
Conner swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Conner punishes Costel's body with a nice straight punch.
Conner throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Costel tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Conner defends well and Costel ends up having to push Conner into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Damien Conner dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.
#R2##TD2#
Conner gets caught napping as Costel dives in and scores a takedown. Conner manages to retain guard.#SUB2#
Costel drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Costel jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Costel trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #SUB2#
Costel drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Costel jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position. #SUB2#
Costel drops back looking for a leg! Conner is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Conner manages to kick Costel off! Costel jumps back into Conner's guard.
Costel pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Conner is keeping the position for now.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Neculai Costel has got the better of the ground game so far.
Conner controlling the position.#T1#
Costel forces his way into half guard.
Conner looks like he's trying to stand up.
Conner on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Conner tries to get out of the position.#SUB2#
Costel is trying to work for a kimura but Conner is defending well. #SUB2#
Conner makes his way to full guard, as Costel worked for a kimura.
Conner trying to control the position.
Conner looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Conner looking to control.
Conner wants to stand up but Costel is controlling him. #SUB2#
Costel drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Costel jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Costel is looking to pass into half guard but Conner pushes him away with his feet and jumps on top - now Conner is in guard.#REVR##SUB2#
Costel had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Conner defends it easily.#SUB2#
Costel is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Conner is aware though and is defending well.#T3#
Costel 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#
Costel 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.
Conner pushes Costel off looking to stand but Costel dives back in and keeps control.
Conner trying to hold on to Costel's head to control him but Costel postures up. #SUB2#
Costel is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #T4##SUB2#
Costel has hold of the far side arm. He's working for the Kimura, can Conner defend it? Costel steps over the head and cranks it - Conner is tapping out! That was textbook stuff right there - nice submission victory for Costel!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:06 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Neculai Costel!
An out of breath Neculai Costel thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

Event: WFB: First Blood
Date: Aug 21, 2016

#R1##TD#
Costel shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Costel showed some decent athleticism there. #SUB#
Costel seems like he's working for an arm triangle here. He's freed his trapped foot and he's rotating nicely. Gas is in big trouble! He's tapping out! This one is aaaaaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:18 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Arm Triangle). Neculai Costel!
An out of breath Neculai Costel thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

Event: G #32 BOAGRIUS vs SISSYPANTS
Date: Jul 30, 2016

#R1#
Costel chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Costel throws a quick inside leg kick.
Nice body kick there by Costel.
Puimakone throws a shot from downtown. Costel moves away and avoids it.
Costel comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Costel connects with an inside leg kick.
Costel throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Puimakone throws a lazy right hand but Costel sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Puimakone throws a shot from downtown. Costel moves away and avoids it.
Costel is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Costel misses with a low kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Costel scores with a head kick.
Costel with a jab.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Puimakone takes one on the chin but seems OK. #T1#
Costel throws a head kick that misses.
Neculai Costel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Costel throws a body kick that misses
and Puimakone makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Costel walks into a stiff left hand from Puimakone.
Puimakone moves out of range of the strikes.
Costel keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Costel changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Costel throws a leg kick that misses.
Costel scores with a shot to the body.
Puimakone throws a jab but it's blocked by Costel.
Puimakone 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.
Costel throws a front kick aimed at Puimakone's knee but Puimakone avoids it well.
A clash of legs there as Puimakone blocks the low kick.#T2#
Puimakone throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Costel with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Costel avoids the body shot from Puimakone.
Costel moves out of range as Puimakone strikes.
Costel keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Costel lands a kick to the ribs of his opponent. Nice work there - in and out in a flash.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Puimakone moves out of range of the strikes.
Costel throws a half hearted mid kick.
Puimakone was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Costel throws a head kick that looked like it stung.
Puimakone moves out of range as Costel throws a body kick.
Puimakone blocks a head kick by Costel. #TD2#
Costel feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.#T3#
Puimakone trying to strike from the bottom but really, it's not the best position to be doing that from!
Costel showing good wrestling skills to control the position. #SUB#
Puimakone has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Costel can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #SUB#
Puimakone has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Costel can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Costel not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
It looks like Costel might be adopting somewhat of a lay and pray gameplan here, which I'm sure won't go down too well with the paying fans in attendance... Or the ring announcers come to think of it.#T4#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Costel trying to control the position from guard on top but Puimakone is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Puimakone is controlling Costel's posture.
Costel won't allow Puimakone to sweep him here.
Costel stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Puimakone swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Puimakone might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Puimakone tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Costel is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.#TD2#
Costel changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Puimakone looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!
#R2#
Costel throws a quick inside leg kick.
Costel slips under a jab.
Puimakone tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Costel was well out of range. Poor timing from Puimakone.
Nice shot lands for Puimakone.
Costel lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Costel misses the shot to the body.
Puimakone was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
A jab from Costel misses.
A little feinted left hand from Puimakone on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Puimakone waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Costel.
Costel changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Costel finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Neculai Costel seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Costel swings for the body but Puimakone moves out of range.
Puimakone pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Costel tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Puimakone swivels and escapes.#T1#
Puimakone throws a shot from downtown. Costel moves away and avoids it.
Costel shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Puimakone sprawls well. Puimakone wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Costel gets slowly back to his feet.
Costel uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Puimakone.
Costel lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Puimakone throws a looping overhand right but Costel ducks down to avoid it.
Costel misses with a body shot.
A little feinted left hand from Puimakone on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Costel looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Puimakone is really struggling to find his range with his punches. Costel's reach advantage is clearly causing him problems.
Puimakone works the jab nicely.
Puimakone throws a hard body shot but it just misses. #T2#
Costel displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Puimakone throws out the jab.
Costel tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Costel lands a jab to the head.
Costel throws a leg kick but Puimakone sees it coming and moves out of range.
Puimakone throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Costel sees it coming and avoids it easily.#KD#
Oooooh!!! Puimakone has knocked Costel down with a huge combo! Puimakone steps away and waves a wobbly Costel back to his feet! This one might not go much longer!#ROC#
Costel is rocked!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Costel takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Costel is still on wobbly legs! Can Puimakone finish him?
A clash of legs there as Puimakone blocks the low kick.
Puimakone is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Costel misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Puimakone.
It looked like Puimakone wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Costel ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Puimakone just misses with a punch to the body.
Costel pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Puimakone uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Costel.
Puimakone half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Costel scores with a nice strike.
The fighters circling - Puimakone throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Puimakone loads up on a big right hand but Costel slips the punch.
A bone on bone clash there as Puimakone blocks the leg kick.
Costel seems to have recovered his senses.
Puimakone misses with a looping right.#T3#
Costel throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.
A swing and a miss from Costel.
Puimakone looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Puimakone ducks under a wild hook from Costel.
Costel uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Puimakone.
Costel has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Costel misses with the body kick
and Puimakone counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Puimakone checks a leg kick.
Nice defenses there by Costel.
A looping hook to the body misses from Costel. Puimakone does a little dance to reset his feet.
Puimakone checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Costel has his takedown stuffed
and Puimakone counters with a right hand to the body.
Naksuttava Puimakone has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Neculai Costel.#T4#
Puimakone throws a jab but it's blocked by Costel.
Costel swings for the body but Puimakone moves out of range.
Costel throws a solid leg kick but Puimakone takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Costel.
A punch lands to the side of Puimakone 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Puimakone misses with a looping left.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Puimakone throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Jab, jab by Puimakone - just one landing.
Costel throws a feint and then finishes with a kick to the body.
A looping hook to the body misses from Puimakone. Costel does a little dance to reset his feet.
Costel throws a leg kick
and Puimakone cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Naksuttava Puimakone dominated that second round.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Costel darts in and out, connecting with a jab. #KD#
Puimakone sends Costel crashing to the mat with a devastating uppercut! Puimakone is motioning to the referee to let Costel up. He wants to try and finish this one on the feet!
Costel shoots and misses
and Puimakone counters with a crisp right that sends Costel to the canvas! Puimakone follows up with punches from the mount and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:16 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Naksuttava Puimakone!
A very excited looking Naksuttava Puimakone made sure he remembered to thank all the fans both in the arena and on the internet. He said all the coolest people spend all day on MMA websites, which got a big reaction.
The defeated Neculai Costel had this to say: 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: ITFL 5.2
Date: Jun 29, 2016

#R1#
Ng digs a good hook to Costel's body.
Charles Ng seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Ng thows a left - swing and a miss!
Costel scores with a jab to the body.
Costel pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Ng throws a series of punches but Costel moves out of range.
Costel misses with a low kick.
Ng swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Ng misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Costel.
Ng on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Costel. Costel obviously looking to wear him down.
Ng loads up on a big right hand but Costel slips the punch.
Costel half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Costel misses with a takedown attempt
and Ng cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Ng falls off balance throwing a combination #TD#
so Costel counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Ng is wriggling around but Costel manages to pass to half guard.
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!#REVB#
Ng wants to control but Costel is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Costel keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.#T1#
Costel is trying to control the action in half guard but Ng is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Costel is looking to stall here but Ng recovers full guard. #SUB#
Costel has gone for a leg lock! Ng slips out almost immediately though and dives into Costel's guard.#REVB##SUB#
Costel has his foot on Ng's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Ng works his way back into a safe position though.#SUB#
Costel throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Costel looking to control but Ng passes into half guard. #T2#
Costel is looking to improve his position.
Costel trying to control from the bottom.
Ng trying to mount his opponent but Costel defends it.
Costel is looking for a sweep. Ng is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Costel trying to control but Ng postures up.
Costel is pressing down on Ng's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Costel working a defensive guard here.
Ng sitting in guard here, content to control. #T3#
Ng looking to pass the guard.
Costel keeping moving, preventing Ng from controlling successfully. #SU2#
Ng gets to his feet. Costel looking to butt scoot but the ref puts an end to that. On your feet son!
Ng swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Costel uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Ng.
Ng connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Costel looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Ng jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent. #ROC2#
Costel is rocked!
Ng cracks Costel with a brutal left hook that knocks him out cold! This one is over in a flash! Game over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:51 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Charles Ng!
Our winner, Charles Ng, 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.
Neculai Costel spoke after the fight, saying 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: G #20 CRESPO vs BADASS
Date: May 28, 2016

#R1#
Some bone on bone action there as Jebe checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one.
Costel fails with a takedown attempt.
Costel blocks a jab.
Nice takedown defense from Jebe. No joy for Costel on that attempt.
Jebe throws a good cross that connects.
Costel shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
It looked like Jebe wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Zurgadai Jebe has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Neculai Costel.
No luck for Costel with that takedown attempt. #CL#
Costel tries to keep at a distance but Jebe has taken the fight into the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jebe lands an uppercut.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Jebe.
Jebe blocking some punches.
A head punch on the inside from Costel fails to land. #BC#
Jebe breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat. #T1#
Jebe throws a shot from downtown. Costel moves away and avoids it.
Costel feints the counter takedown.
Jebe throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
Costel with a lazy takedown attempt
and Jebe counters with a lovely straight right hand!#ROC#
Costel is rocked!
Jebe avoids a kick to the body.
Costel is still on wobbly legs! Can Jebe finish him?
Costel shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Jebe sprawls well. Jebe wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Costel gets slowly back to his feet.
Costel has done a lot of speed work in the buildup to this fight.
BOOM! Jebe lands a beautiful left hook that drops Costel. Costel tries to recover but Jebe is having none of it, landing more punishing shots from mount. One final crushing shot and Costel lies motionless on the canvas. The fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:30 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Zurgadai Jebe!
Zurgadai Jebe retains his bantamweight title!
Zurgadai Jebe thanked the fans post fight for their support.
Neculai Costel was interviewed post fight and said 'You win some, you lose some. I have to give it to Hess, he was sneakyer tonight.'.

Event: GENERATION #18
Date: May 07, 2016

#R1##TD#
Costel scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.#SUB#
Costel is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Hess knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Costel takes a little break here. Hess wants to take advantage but he is being controlled well.
Costel seems to have a rather negative gameplan on the ground. He seems keen to just score the takedown and hold down Hess for as long as he can get away with.
Costel will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.#SUB#
Costel tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Costel has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Hess tries to improve position but can't.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Costel looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything. #SUB#
Costel looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything. #T1#
Hess is looking to regain half guard here but Costel keeps moving and retains side control.
Costel staying calm.
Hess is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Costel's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.#SUB2#
Hess looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Well, if Costel is going to just lie there, perhaps we should talk about what we're having for dinner tonight… I'm having a ham and pineapple pizza… Yum. Can't wait. #SUB2#
Hess looking for submissions off his back.
Hess tries to roll over but Costel keeps him under control.#T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.#SUB#
Costel is trying to work for a kimura but Hess is defending well. #SUB#
Costel is trying to work for a kimura but Hess is defending well.
Costel stalling.
Costel trying to pass the guard but Hess defending well.
Costel wants to control but Hess is keeping him busy.
Hess is looking to improve his position. #SUB#
Costel is trying to work for a kimura but Hess is defending well. #T3##SUB2#
Hess looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB2#
Hess looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Hess is not content to let Costel control the position.
Costel wants to pass the guard but Hess is defending well.
The referee calls for the fighters to work. #SUB#
Costel is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Hess has managed to free his arm - good work.
Costel prevents Hess from improving his position.#SUB2#
Hess is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Costel pulls his head out easily. #T4#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.#SUB2#
Hess looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB2#
Hess looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Hess is looking for a sweep. Costel is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Hess is not content to let Costel control the position.#SUB2#
Hess looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB#
Costel is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB2#
Hess is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Costel pulls his head out easily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!
#R2#
Hess keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot. #TD#
Costel shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Costel wants to control but Hess is keeping him busy.
Hess wants to control but Costel is keeping busy. #SUB#
Hess is defending against the submission attempts here by Costel. #SUB#
Costel is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Hess defends it well.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hess is looking for a sweep. Costel is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Costel controlling the action here.#SUB#
Costel is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg. #T1#
Hess is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #SUB#
Costel is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Hess is just riding it out for now. Costel eventually gives up the hold. #SUB2#
Hess is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Costel pulls his head out easily. #SUB#
Costel is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there. #SUB2#
Hess actively working from the bottom here.#T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Costel seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Hess does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Costel is controlling the pace.
Costel is pressing down on Hess's thigh, looking to free his foot. Hess is holding on for now.
Hess really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Costel. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.#SUB2#
Hess looking for submissions off his back.#SUB2#
Hess looking for submissions off his back.
Hess is staying active underneath Costel, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Costel wants to pass the guard but Hess is defending well.
Costel is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Hess can do to turn this around?#SUB#
Costel is looking for a kimura here. #T3#
Hess is refusing to be controlled, as Costel sits in half guard.
Neculai Costel overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#SUB2#
Hess looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB#
Costel is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game. #SUB2#
Hess looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Costel works his way into side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Hess is not content to let Costel control the position. #T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Hess is looking for a sweep.
Costel staying calm.
Costel is looking to take a break and control but Hess is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #SUB#
Costel is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Hess has escaped the position, nice work there.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Hess gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there!
Costel content just to control the position here.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Neculai Costel dominated that second round.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Hess avoids a kick to the body. #TD#
Costel drives through with a takedown into guard.
Hess keeping moving, preventing Costel from controlling successfully. #SUB#
Costel drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Costel jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position. #SUB2#
Hess is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Costel passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Hess tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Costel wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hess trying to control but Costel flips him over like a cheap hooker and has his back!#SUB#
Hess fending off the submission attempt from Costel. #SUB#
Costel working for the choke. #T1##SUB#
Costel is persistently looking for the submission but Hess is defending it well.
Costel controlling well, preventing Hess from escaping the position. #SUB#
Costel is persistently looking for the submission but Hess is defending it well.
Hess tries to break free.
The crowd hopeful of a finish here - Costel's supporters are on their feet, screaming for him to go for the rear naked choke. #SUB#
Costel working for the choke.
Hess looks to control his opponent's hands but he's not mananging it at the moment. #T2##SUB#
Costel looking for the RNC.
Hess tries to escape but Costel has the hooks in and won't let him break free. #SUB#
Hess fending off the submission attempt from Costel.
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!
I really don't envy Hess right now. #SUB#
Costel looking for the RNC.
Hess trying to control but he's just got himself in more trouble.
The crowd hopeful of a finish here - Costel's supporters are on their feet, screaming for him to go for the rear naked choke. #T3#
Costel not allowing Hess to control his hands. #SUB#
Costel working for a choke but Hess is defending well. #SUB#
Costel is staying calm and holding on to the back position, whilst working on a rear naked choke. Hess is defending well though. Costel let's go of the attempt for now.
Hess is really stuck here.
Hess wants to control his opponent's hands but Costel gets his hands free. #SUB#
Costel is working really hard to secure the rear naked choke. Hess defends successfully for a significant amount of time. Both fighters are looking very determined. #SUB#
Costel is looking to finish the fight by rear naked choke. Hess knows exactly what he's got planned though, so he's defending well. Maybe a few strikes would soften Hess for a finish. #T4##SUB#
Costel has his hand under the chin of his opponent looking for the choke. He's nearly got it! This one could be all over! But no, Hess has freed his hand and lives to survive another… well, another couple of seconds at least!
Hess is trying to break free. #SUB#
Costel sinks in the hooks and is looking for the choke. He's got it! Hess taps out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:43 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Neculai Costel!
During a confident post fight interview, Neculai Costel thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

Event: GENERATION #16
Date: Apr 23, 2016

#R1#
Deens throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Deens has been working on his striking defense in training and it's paying off as Costel is landing a low percentage of strikes.
Deens throws out a powerful jab.
Leo Deens seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Deens throws an overhand right that lands on Costel's shoulder, as Costel tries to avoid the shot.
A kick lands to the mid section there for Costel.#CL2#
Deens has closed the distance and engaged Costel in a clinch. #TD#
Costel jumps guard and drags Deens to the mat. He's obviously going to be looking for submissions off his back. #SUB#
Deens is sitting in close to Costel's body. Costel has gone for a guillotine from the bottom. Oh damn, that looks pretty tight! Deens is panicking - it looks like this one could be all over! Yes, Deens is tapping! That was a very nice submission by Costel.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:38 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Neculai Costel!
Our winner, Neculai Costel, 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.

Event: GENERATION #15
Date: Apr 16, 2016

#R1#
Jebe connects with a solid leg kick.
Jebe cracks Costel with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.#CL#
Jebe clinches up against the cage.
Jebe gets underhooks to prevent Costel's takedown attempt.
We've been hearing reports that Jebe has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
A short body shot lands from Costel as the two fighters clinch.
Jebe struggles to land a body shot inside as Costel controls his hands.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Jebe.
Costel tries to work over Jebe's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Costel misses with a hook from the clinch.
Costel scores with a shot to the side of Jebe's head.
Costel tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Jebe's elbow.
The pace slowing considerably in the clinch, as Jebe takes a break from that fighting nonsense to think about the finer things in life.
Jebe lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Jebe scores with a shoulder strike.
The pace really dropping off here, momentarily.
Jebe is pressed up against the cage. Costel has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Jebe down to the mat. Jebe avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Costel misses with a low kick.
Costel swings for the body but Jebe moves out of range. #T1#
A shot to the liver by Jebe. Beautiful body shot.
Jebe connects with a right hand. Costel shakes it off.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Costel lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Jebe has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Jebe and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Costel has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Jebe.
Jebe 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.
Jebe throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Donk. Jebe catches Costel right on the button with a cross.#ROC#
Costel is rocked!
Costel throws a jab when Jebe was well out of range.
Costel is still on wobbly legs! Can Jebe finish him?
Jebe misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Costel.
Jebe drops Costel with a naaaaasty hook - Costel is in real trouble here! Jebe dives in to side control and pounds out his opponent for a TKO victory! The crowd goes nuts!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:41 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Zurgadai Jebe!
Zurgadai Jebe retains his bantamweight title!
After winning the bout, Zurgadai Jebe thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

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