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Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: SYN 1049 Prometheus vs Sampson     
Date:   Jan 19, 2024
#R1#
Johnson scores with a sloppy right hand. Graves should have avoided that one.
Johnson scoring well with a low kick there.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Johnson appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Champ Johnson seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Johnson looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Johnson avoids the body shot from Graves.
Johnson with the counter takedown but Graves avoids it easily.
Johnson with a nice calf kick.
Johnson misses with a telegraphed body shot #TD#
and Graves counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Johnson wants to get back to his feet but he's too absorbed in his own little project and Graves manages to pass to side control. #REVB#
Johnson 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.
Graves stops Johnson from getting back to his feet.
Graves throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Johnson is trying to stand.
Johnson has hold of Graves's hands but Graves slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Graves scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Johnson wants to get back to his feet.
Graves has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Graves wants to take a breather but Johnson is having none of it.
Johnson is trying to stand up here but Graves is controlling him well.
Graves is trying to control. Johnson wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Johnson wants to get back to his feet.#T1#
Graves is keen to just control but Johnson is a slippery customer.
Johnson keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Graves is nestled in close to Johnson, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Graves prevents Johnson from standing back up.
Johnson is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.
Graves wants to pass to mount but Johnson is defending the position.
Graves seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Johnson does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Graves working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.
Johnson won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Johnson is trying to stand back up but Graves is controlling him
Graves looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Johnson with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position. #ES2#
Johnson makes some distance and scrambles quickly back to his feet. Nice work!
A cross from Graves lands.#T2#
Graves is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Johnson.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Johnson.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Johnson manages to avoid it.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Johnson moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Johnson looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Graves takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Graves misses with a hook. Johnson ducked under it nicely.
Johnson misses with a looping left.
Graves 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.
Johnson lands with a shot to the body.
Graves closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Johnson connects with an inside leg kick.
Johnson looks to land a right hand but Graves moved out of range.
Graves was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Johnson throws a jab when Graves was well out of range.
Graves takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Graves defending well as Johnson loads up on a big left hand. #T3#
Johnson scores with the left hand. Graves knows he should have avoided that one.
Johnson connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Graves's hands.
Graves looks to throw the jab but Johnson is out of range.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Graves will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Graves takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Johnson moves away.
Graves slips a jab from Johnson.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Johnson does a little dance to reset his feet.
Johnson circles away from the clinch attempt.
Graves sets himself, and Johnson steps forward looking for the clinch! Graves avoids it this time.
Johnson moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Johnson tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Johnson.
Johnson just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves 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.
Johnson is looking to clinch.
Graves appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.#T4#
Johnson connects with a leg kick.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Johnson scores with the left hand. Graves knows he should have avoided that one.
Graves fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Johnson manages to avoid it.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Johnson moves away.
Johnson's corner calls for a 1-2. Johnson obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Johnson dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Johnson misses with a body shot.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves checks a leg kick.
Johnson throws out a loose jab but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Johnson swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
A nice leg kick from Johnson, right into the meat of the thigh.
Johnson tries to clinch but Graves is having none of it.
Graves appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Champ Johnson dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Johnson throws out a leg kick but Graves moves out of range and Johnson only half commits.
An attempted straight right counter from Graves misses the target.
That kick from Johnson tenderised Graves's leg. Graves is trying to keep his angry face on.
Graves moves away from the strike by Johnson.
Johnson fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Graves manages to avoid it.
A counter left hand to the body from Graves misses its target.
Johnson keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Johnson misses with a wild body shot.
Graves misses with a few strikes there.
Graves tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Johnson swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
Graves walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Johnson has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Johnson digs a good body shot into Graves's ribs.
Johnson lands a right hook to the body.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
It seemed like Johnson was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Graves swings for the body but Johnson moves out of range.
Johnson lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.#T1#
Johnson tries to clinch but Graves is having none of it.
An inside leg kick lands from Johnson.
Johnson jabs Graves to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Champ Johnson seems to be getting the better of the standup.
A nice leg kick lands there from Johnson.
The fighters circle momentarily. Johnson darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Johnson moves into range and connects with a jab.
Johnson swings for the body but Graves moves out of range.
Graves is really struggling to find his range with his punches. Johnson's reach advantage is clearly causing him problems.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Johnson.
It looked like Graves was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Johnson.
A big right from Graves misses.
Graves goes for a double leg but Johnson avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Johnson continues to drive forward.
Graves misses with a body punch.
A shot in the inside from Johnson.
Johnson misses with some punches.
Graves lands a right hand.
Johnson lands a shot to the body.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Johnson.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#BC#
Graves pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Graves is looking to wear down Johnson with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Johnson connects with a solid leg kick. #T2#
Johnson listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Champ Johnson is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
A low kick lands for Johnson.
Graves throws a body punch but Johnson moves out of range.
Nice defenses there by Johnson.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Johnson manages to avoid it.
Johnson misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Johnson scores with a nice strike.
Johnson lands a body shot.
Johnson tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Johnson.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Johnson was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Johnson thumps Graves with a low kick.
Johnson cracks Graves with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Johnson scores with a decent looking hook.
Graves ducks right into an uppercut from Johnson.
Graves is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Graves thows a left - swing and a miss! #T3#
Johnson comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Graves takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Johnson dodges the punch combination from Graves.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Johnson.
Graves throwing a counter right hand but Johnson manages to avoid it.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
The fighters circling - Graves throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Johnson just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Johnson throws a counter combo.
Johnson misses with a wild body shot.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Johnson does a little dance to reset his feet.
Johnson swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Graves.
The fighters circling - Graves throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Graves doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Jab by Johnson.
Johnson slips under a jab.#T4#
Graves slips under a jab from Johnson.
A left lands for Johnson.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Johnson avoids the body shot from Graves.
Johnson lands a slapping body shot.
Johnson has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
A low kick lands for Johnson. #CL2#
Johnson moves into the clinch successfully. #BC2#
Johnson pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Graves jabs at Johnson's body.
Johnson keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Johnson appeared to try and counter that last move with a leg kick.
Graves throws a body punch but Johnson moves out of range.
Johnson connects with an inside leg kick.
Graves throws a body punch but Johnson moves out of range.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Johnson dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves throws a lazy right hand but Johnson sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Johnson connects with a jab.
Johnson uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Champ Johnson showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!#R3#
Johnson tries to clinch up.
A nice leg kick from Johnson, right into the meat of the thigh.
Johnson slaps away a takedown attempt from Graves, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Johnson ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Johnson manages to avoid it.
Graves chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Johnson can pounce on him.
Johnson is looking to slow Graves down with leg kicks.
Johnson lands a nice looking body shot.
Johnson lands a jab to the head.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves misses with a straight left.
Johnson swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Graves was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Johnson moves away from the strike by Graves.
A cross from Johnson lands.#T1#
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Johnson manages to avoid it.
Graves lands a nice shot to the body.
Johnson buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Johnson with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Johnson tests Graves's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Graves takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Graves fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Johnson moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Johnson connects with a solid leg kick.
Graves throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Johnson chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Johnson pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.#T2#
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Johnson connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Graves momentarily.
Johnson displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Graves throws out the jab.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Graves drops his hands momentarily and Johnson takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Graves is trying hard to land a takedown here. Johnson sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Graves takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Graves drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Johnson connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Johnson moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Graves scores with a body shot.
Johnson throws a hook but Graves avoids it easily.
Johnson misses with a looping left.
Johnson displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Graves throws out the jab.
Graves takes a jab right on the kisser. #T3#
Johnson with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Johnson tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Johnson.
Johnson throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
A counter left hand to the body from Graves misses its target.
Johnson is looking to score with low kicks.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Johnson fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Graves looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Graves gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Johnson scores with a body shot.
Johnson moves out of range as Graves strikes.
Johnson dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Graves. That did some damage!
Johnson cracks a nice hook into Graves's ribs.
Johnson scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Johnson throws a nice outside leg kick. #T4#
Johnson fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Graves on the side of the head.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Johnson.
An inside leg kick lands from Johnson.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Johnson scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
That kick from Johnson tenderised Graves's leg. Graves is trying to keep his angry face on.
Johnson attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Graves jabs Johnson to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Graves lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Johnson buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Johnson cracks Graves with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Graves uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Johnson.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Johnson feints and then cracks Graves's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Graves down.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Yuuki Gou scores the fight 27:30
Judge Hirohito Nitta scores the fight 27:30
Judge Shigeki Fujiwara scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Champ Johnson!

After the fight, Champ Johnson was humble in paying tribute to his opponent but made it clear he wants to go on to bigger and better things. It seemed to go down well with the crowd who cheered him loudly.

 

Event: SYN 1042 Danger vs Pinks     
Date:   Dec 16, 2023
#R1#
Johnson stuns Graves with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Graves fails to land with a series of punches.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Johnson throws a big shot that misses.
Graves swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Johnson fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Graves has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Graves has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Johnson.
Graves is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
Graves throws a body punch but Johnson moves out of range.
Johnson throws a nice inside leg kick.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Johnson was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Graves blocks a jab.
Johnson lands a nice looking body shot. #CL2#
Johnson moves into the clinch.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves lands a left hand.
Graves misses with a body punch.
Graves tries to work over Johnson's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Graves misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Johnson misses with a short punch on the inside. #T1#
Graves has Johnson pushed against the cage.
Graves tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Johnson prevents a body shot from Graves.
Johnson misses with some punches.
Johnson throws a punch but it's blocked by Graves.
Johnson lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Graves backwards.
Graves wants to stall.
Graves misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Graves tries a body shot but Johnson blocks it.
Graves lands a shot to the body.
Johnson misses with a hook from the clinch.
Graves blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
The fighters are pressed against the cage, as the pace of the fight slows.
Graves blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Graves goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Graves creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Graves takes a shot to the head.
Graves scores with a hook to the body.#T2##BC2#
Johnson's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Champ Johnson is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Johnson is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Graves.
Graves connects with a good right hand that stumbles Johnson. Johnson circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.#CL#
Graves has managed to clinch.
Graves tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Graves creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut. #BC2#
Johnson breaks from the clinch.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Johnson paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Johnson is looking to slow Graves down with leg kicks.
The sound of bone on bone echoes around the arena as Graves checks a leg kick.
Graves throws a body punch but Johnson moves out of range.
Graves takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Graves moves out of range as Johnson strikes.
Graves is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Johnson misses with a straight right. #T3#
Johnson keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Johnson scores with a slapping inside leg kick.#CL2#
Johnson gets in close and instigates a clinch. #BC#
Graves breaks the clinch.
Johnson throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
A bone on bone clash there as Graves blocks the leg kick.
Johnson takes a swing at Graves's ribcage but misses.
It looked like Graves was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Johnson.
Johnson just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Johnson.
A jab from Johnson does it's job there.#TD#
Graves shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Johnson is trying to defend but Graves finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Johnson wants to get back to his feet. #T4#
Graves wants to pass the guard but Johnson is defending well.
Johnson is trying to stand back up but Graves is controlling him
Johnson is in trouble now - Graves has advanced to mount!
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!
Graves landing strikes from the mount.
Graves lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.
Graves raining down hammerfists from mount.
Johnson takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.#ROC#Johnson is rocked!
You get the feeling that Johnson really doesn't like being in this position too much.
Johnson is still in real trouble! Can Graves finish him?
Johnson is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.
Johnson seems to have recovered his senses.
Graves is in the full mount, landing strikes.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Johnson wants to get back to his feet.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Johnson lands a leg kick that knocks Graves off balance momentarily.
Graves is looking to clinch but Johnson is avoiding it.
Champ Johnson seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Graves swings for the body but Johnson moves out of range.
Johnson throws a nice outside leg kick.
Johnson lands a jab to the nose.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Johnson lands a nice shot that snaps Graves's head back.
Graves cracks a nice hook into Johnson's ribs.
Johnson lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Johnson bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves takes a swing at Johnson's ribcage but misses.
Graves swings for the body but Johnson moves out of range.
Johnson throws a leg kick that is checked
and Graves counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Graves takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Johnson displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Graves. #T1#
Johnson swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Graves counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Johnson thinking.
Johnson ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Graves avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Johnson lands a jab to the nose.
Johnson scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Graves takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Johnson throws a nice inside leg kick.
Johnson misses with a body shot.
Graves swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Johnson dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Johnson throws a jab when Graves was well out of range.
Johnson keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Johnson looks to score with a jab to the body but Graves is just out of range.
Johnson with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Johnson lands with a thumping leg kick.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Johnson misses with a wild body shot. #T2#
Johnson dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Johnson was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves misses with an uppercut.
Johnson lands with a hook. Graves tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Johnson throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Johnson is just out of range.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Johnson manages to avoid it.
Johnson has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Johnson changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Johnson connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Johnson does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.
Johnson misses with an uppercut.
Johnson lands a lovely overhand right.
Johnson throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown. Johnson tries to sprawl out of it but Graves keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Johnson manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing. #T3#
Johnson scoring well with a low kick there. #CL2#
Graves tries to keep at a distance but Johnson has taken the fight into the clinch.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Johnson.
Graves is trying to stall.
Johnson blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Graves lands with a right to the head.
Ernest Graves has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Johnson fails to land with a short punch on the inside. #BC2#
Johnson escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Johnson scores with a nice strike.
Johnson misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves.
Johnson throws a hook but Graves avoids it easily.
Graves changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
An inside leg kick lands from Johnson.
Graves throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Johnson stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.#T4#
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Johnson is just out of range.
Johnson tried to score with a low kick but Graves checks it.#CL#
Graves has managed to clinch.
Johnson lands a right hand that snaps the head of Graves backwards.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Johnson has a couple of punches blocked by Graves.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Johnson.
Graves tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Graves wants to stall.
A short uppercut from Graves.
Graves lands a body shot.
Graves lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Johnson.
Johnson blocks a body shot from Graves.
Graves doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Graves stalling in the clinch but Johnson improves position.
Graves prevents Johnson from breaking the clinch.
Graves goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Graves tries to work over Johnson's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Champ Johnson showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Graves's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!#R3#
Johnson throws out a loose jab but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Johnson was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Johnson swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Graves is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Johnson lands a jab to Graves's midsection.
Johnson jabs Graves to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Johnson throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Johnson connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Johnson steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Graves.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Johnson.
Johnson defending well as Graves loads up on a big left hand.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A looping hook to the body misses from Johnson. Graves does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
Johnson lands with a hook. Graves tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Graves misses with a double jab.
Graves on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Graves throws out a loose jab but Johnson uses good head movement to avoid it. #T1#
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Johnson only half commits to the counter leg kick.
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot. #CL#
Graves darts in and clinches Johnson up against the cage.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Graves.
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Johnson's elbow.
Graves lands a right hand that snaps the head of Johnson backwards.
Johnson struggles to land a body shot inside as Graves controls his hands.
Johnson misses with some punches.
Johnson has a couple of punches blocked by Graves.
Graves misses with a punch to the body.
Graves controlling the action here for a moment. #BC2#
Johnson's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Some bone on bone action there as Graves checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one.
Johnson throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Johnson moves away.#T2#
Johnson takes a swing at Graves's ribcage but misses.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Johnson throws out the jab.
A solid leg kick lands there for Johnson.
A solid leg kick lands there for Johnson.
Johnson lands a nice shot to the body.
Good standup being displayed there by Graves as he connects with a hook.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Johnson just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Johnson uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Johnson bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Graves's head.
Graves lands a jab to Johnson's midsection.
Graves checks a leg kick.
Graves closes the distance and clinches up with Johnson, looking for a takedown. Graves pushes Johnson against the cage but Johnson circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Johnson cracks Graves with an open hand slap.
Graves misses with a straight right. #CL2#
Johnson gets a clinch. #T3#
A head punch blocked on the inside by Graves.
Johnson throws a head punch that misses.
Johnson swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Johnson throws a head punch that misses.
Graves blocking some punches.
Johnson prevents a body shot from Graves.
Graves tries a body shot but Johnson blocks it.
Graves swings wildly with an uppercut but Johnson uses good head movement to avoid it.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Graves.
Graves works on Johnson's body with a couple of short punches.#BC2#
Johnson breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Johnson throws a leg kick which misses Graves's front leg but catches the back leg as Graves tries to avoid it.
Johnson scores with a leg kick.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves throws a body punch but Johnson moves out of range.
Graves steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Johnson.
Johnson lands a jab to Graves's midsection.#T4#
Graves checks the leg kick.
Champ Johnson seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A low kick lands for Johnson.
Johnson connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Johnson does a little dance to reset his feet.
Johnson scores with a punch to the head.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Johnson digs a good hook to Graves's body.
Graves throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Johnson's waist but Johnson gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Graves off to one side.
Johnson staying out of range there.
Johnson throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
A quick step to the side and Graves tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Johnson throws a leg kick which misses Graves's front leg but catches the back leg as Graves tries to avoid it.
Johnson just misses with a punch to the body.
Johnson has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Johnson manages to avoid it.
Johnson throws a body punch but Graves moves out of range.
A quick step to the side and Graves tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves is looking to wear down Johnson with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Johnson fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Graves.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Johnson does a little dance to reset his feet.

And that's the end of the fight!
Champ Johnson comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Johnson has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ian Loll scores the fight 28:29
Judge Yves DeLean scores the fight 28:29
Judge Alec Ball scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Champ Johnson!

In his post fight interview, Champ Johnson started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

 

Event: SYN 1037 Takahashi vs Seran     
Date:   Nov 29, 2023
#R1#
Graves walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Akhtankhanov throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
It looked like Graves was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Akhtankhanov.
Graves throws a body punch but Akhtankhanov moves out of range.
Akhtankhanov slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Akhtankhanov fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Graves.
Graves on the wrong end of a nice hook.
A nice leg kick from Akhtankhanov, right into the meat of the thigh.
Akhtankhanov scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Graves throws a series of punches but Akhtankhanov moves out of range.
Akhtankhanov fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Graves manages to avoid it.
Jab by Akhtankhanov.
Akhtankhanov throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Akhtankhanov digs a good body shot into Graves's ribs.
Akhtankhanov scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK. #T1#
Akhtankhanov takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Akhtankhanov throws a quick inside leg kick.
Decent striking displayed by Akhtankhanov there.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body. #TD#
Graves gets a takedown into half guard.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Akhtankhanov is defending well.
Graves wants to control but Akhtankhanov is keeping him busy.
Graves throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Akhtankhanov is defending well.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T2#
Graves wants to control but Akhtankhanov is keeping him busy.
Akhtankhanov tries to get to full guard but Graves has control of the leg.
Graves slows the pace down in half guard.
Akhtankhanov is staying active underneath Graves, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Graves missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Akhtankhanov is defending well. #SUB#
Graves is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Akhtankhanov doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Graves. #T3#
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Akhtankhanov is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.
Graves landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Akhtankhanov is staying active underneath Graves, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Akhtankhanov is trying to maintain the position but Graves is very close to passing his half guard.
Akhtankhanov really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Graves. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Akhtankhanov is looking for a sweep. Graves is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#T4#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Akhtankhanov keeps control of the position for the meantime. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Akhtankhanov works Graves's body with a nice hook.
The fighters are starting to get sweaty, which will make takedowns a bit more tricky.
Akhtankhanov 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.
A low kick from Akhtankhanov misses
and Graves counters with a straight right hand.
A good leg kick by Akhtankhanov.
Akhtankhanov throws a hook but Graves blocks it.
Akhtankhanov scores with a jab to the jaw.
Akhtankhanov fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Graves.
Graves lands a nice shot to the body.
A big left from Akhtankhanov misses.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Akhtankhanov.
Graves was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Sultanbek Akhtankhanov dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Akhtankhanov throws an overhand right that lands on Graves's shoulder, as Graves tries to avoid the shot.
Akhtankhanov has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves looks to land a right hand but Akhtankhanov moved out of range.
Akhtankhanov on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Sultanbek Akhtankhanov seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Akhtankhanov throws out the jab.
Graves lands a body shot.
Akhtankhanov misses with a straight left.
Akhtankhanov takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Akhtankhanov throws a looping overhand right but Graves ducks down to avoid it.
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Akhtankhanov lands with a thumping leg kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Akhtankhanov jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Graves dips to his left and cracks Akhtankhanov with an uppercut!
Akhtankhanov pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Akhtankhanov with a nice calf kick.
Sultanbek Akhtankhanov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves checks a leg kick nicely.#T1#
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Akhtankhanov.
Akhtankhanov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves throws a right and a left that both miss.
Akhtankhanov looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Akhtankhanov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot. #TD#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Akhtankhanov enables Graves to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Akhtankhanov manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Akhtankhanov can't keep his opponent in guard - Graves advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Graves working over Akhtankhanov with some ground and pound. Akhtankhanov looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Akhtankhanov blocking the ground and pound attempt from Graves.
Graves works his way into side control. #T2#
Akhtankhanov avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Graves.
The ground and pound from Graves seems to be hitting the mat more than his opponent.
Akhtankhanov parries the strikes from Graves easily there. Graves is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Akhtankhanov to escape.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Graves wants to control but Akhtankhanov is keeping him busy.
Graves in side control lands a decent elbow.
Graves wants to control but Akhtankhanov is keeping him busy. #T3#
Graves looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Akhtankhanov is avoiding damage well.
Akhtankhanov is looking for a sweep.
Akhtankhanov defending against the ground and pound.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves tries to advance to mount but Akhtankhanov denies him.
Graves working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Akhtankhanov taking a bit of punishment here - Graves scoring with strikes.
Graves throwing ground and pound but whilst doing so, he forgets to control position and Akhtankhanov works his way back to half guard. Good composure under pressure.
Akhtankhanov keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound. #T4#
Graves missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Akhtankhanov is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Graves scores with a couple of nice shots.
Akhtankhanov won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Akhtankhanov keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Akhtankhanov is trying to get back to full guard.#SUB#
Graves is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Akhtankhanov doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Graves.
Graves thows a huge punch but Akhtankhanov dodges it nicely.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Jab from Graves.
Graves takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Akhtankhanov cracks Graves with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Nice takedown defense from Akhtankhanov. No joy for Graves on that attempt.
Akhtankhanov lands with a cross.
Akhtankhanov throws a shot from downtown. Graves moves away and avoids it.
Graves fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Akhtankhanov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves takes one on the button.
Graves takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Akhtankhanov bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Graves looks to land a right hand but Akhtankhanov moved out of range.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nice takedown defense from Akhtankhanov. No joy for Graves on that attempt.
Graves is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Akhtankhanov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Akhtankhanov.
Akhtankhanov throws a shot from downtown. Graves moves away and avoids it.
Akhtankhanov dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Graves. That did some damage!#T1#
Akhtankhanov's corner calls for a 1-2. Akhtankhanov obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Graves throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Graves walks into a left hand.
Graves's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Akhtankhanov connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Graves scrambles back to his feet.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Akhtankhanov let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Akhtankhanov lands a really nice looking cross but Graves seems unphased.
A looping hook to the body misses from Akhtankhanov. Graves does a little dance to reset his feet.
Akhtankhanov throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Akhtankhanov uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
A solid leg kick lands there for Akhtankhanov.
Donk. Akhtankhanov catches Graves right on the button with a cross.
Graves throws a body punch but Akhtankhanov moves out of range.
Akhtankhanov looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Graves lands a nice hook to Akhtankhanov's body. Akhtankhanov takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.#T2#
Graves's corner calls for a 1-2. Graves obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Akhtankhanov throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Graves sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Graves misses with a straight left.
Akhtankhanov lands with a shot to the body.
Graves is looking to wear down Akhtankhanov with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Akhtankhanov misses with a wild body shot.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Akhtankhanov throws a looping overhand right but Graves ducks down to avoid it.
Sultanbek Akhtankhanov is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Akhtankhanov thows a left - swing and a miss!
Graves blocks a jab.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Akhtankhanov was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
A big right from Graves misses.
Graves shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Akhtankhanov sprawls well. Akhtankhanov wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Graves gets slowly back to his feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.#T3#
Akhtankhanov avoids the body shot from Graves.
Akhtankhanov connects with a nice looking jab.
Akhtankhanov with a hook.
Akhtankhanov scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Graves needs to keep his hands up - Akhtankhanov had a free shot at his head there.
Akhtankhanov throws a body shot but no joy.
It looked like Graves was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
Akhtankhanov scores with a hook to the body. Graves takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Graves swings for the body but Akhtankhanov moves out of range.
A nice leg kick lands there from Akhtankhanov.
Akhtankhanov waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
Akhtankhanov connects with an inside leg kick.
Akhtankhanov jabs Graves right on the nose. Graves blinks but takes it well.
Graves throws a hook but Akhtankhanov blocks it.#T4#
Akhtankhanov swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves connects with a single shot there.
Akhtankhanov lands with an overhand left.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Akhtankhanov moves away.
Graves slips under a jab from Akhtankhanov.
Graves jabs at Akhtankhanov's body.
Akhtankhanov misses with a body shot.
Akhtankhanov lands with an uppercut that bounces Graves off the cage and back into range.
Akhtankhanov lands a jab to the head.
A decent looking cross lands there for Akhtankhanov.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Akhtankhanov was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves takes a swing at Akhtankhanov's ribcage but misses.

And that's the end of the fight!
Sultanbek Akhtankhanov comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Akhtankhanov has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 28:29
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 28:29
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Sultanbek Akhtankhanov!

A very excited looking Sultanbek Akhtankhanov 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.

 

Event: SYN 1031 Torhte vs Trollslayer     
Date:   Nov 10, 2023
#R1#
Graves is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
White Jr ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Graves moves away.
White Jr misses with a body shot.
White Jr takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Graves on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot. #CL2#
Graves gets tackled into the cage by White Jr. White Jr maintains the clinch.
White Jr goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
White Jr scores with a hook to the body.
Graves takes a shot to the head.
White Jr tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
White Jr misses with a knee strike.
White Jr trying to land knees to the body.
Graves misses with a hook to the ribs.
White Jr blocks a body shot from Graves.
White Jr prevents a body shot from Graves.
White Jr tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Graves avoids it.
The referee is keeping an eye on Graves - much more stalling and he will separate the fighters.
Graves goes for a body shot but it's blocked. #TD#
Graves gets a trip takedown into half guard.#T1#
Graves throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
White Jr is trying to control but can't.
Graves not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
White Jr trying to control here.
Graves is trying to control the action in half guard but White Jr is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Graves sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. White Jr defending well though.
White Jr is looking for a sweep. Graves is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Still in half guard, Graves seems content to control.
White Jr on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Graves not landing any meaningful shots this time. #T2#
White Jr is doing well to control the position and prevent Graves from advancing to side control.
White Jr really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Graves. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
White Jr is refusing to be controlled, as Graves sits in half guard.
Graves is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because White Jr is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.#REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
White Jr punishes Graves's body with a nice straight punch.
Graves connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.#CL2#
White Jr has managed to clinch. #T3#
Both fighters working to control the clinch.
Graves doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Graves misses with a body punch.
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with White Jr's elbow.
Graves misses with a hook to the ribs.
White Jr lands a body punch in the clinch.
Graves's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
A head punch blocked on the inside by Graves.
White Jr is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Graves is defending well for now.
White Jr misses with a punch to the body.
Graves misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Graves goes for a body shot but it's blocked. #BC#
Graves breaks from the clinch. #CL2#
White Jr closes the distance and clinches.
White Jr pushes Graves back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
White Jr leaning his opponent against the cage.
A short body shot lands from White Jr as the two fighters clinch.
Graves goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
White Jr cracks Graves with a nice body shot.#T4#
A short right from White Jr.
White Jr gets through Graves's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
We've been informed that White Jr has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.
White Jr lands with a left to the head.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves tries to work over White Jr's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Graves takes a shot to the head.
White Jr tries to throw a body punch but Graves avoids it by throwing White Jr back against the cage.
Graves wants to take the fight to the mat but White Jr manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
White Jr tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Graves misses with a hook to the ribs.
Graves blocks an uppercut.
Graves misses with a shot to the kidneys.
White Jr lands on the inside with an uppercut.
White Jr works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
White Jr tries a knee to the head but Graves blocks it.
White Jr can't find room to land a body shot as Graves controls the action.
White Jr goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
White Jr misses with a body punch.
A nice right hand lands inside from White Jr.
Graves presses White Jr against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
White Jr lands a shot to the body.
White Jr is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Graves is defending well for now.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Bruce White Jr dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
White Jr lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Graves at a distance.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as White Jr throws out the jab.
Graves swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but White Jr is just out of range.
White Jr throws a hook but Graves avoids it easily.
Graves takes a swing at White Jr's ribcage but misses.
The fight stays on the outside here - White Jr looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
White Jr is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves blocks a leg kick.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves lands a nice shot to the body. #CL2#
White Jr takes the fight into the clinch.
White Jr has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#T1#
White Jr misses with a hook from the clinch.
A left hand lands to the body for Graves.
A right hand to the body from White Jr.
Graves managing to block the knees to the body from White Jr.
A hook to the body from Graves.
Graves managing to block the knees to the body from White Jr.
Graves pushes White Jr back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
White Jr throws a head punch that misses.
White Jr swings away with an uppercut that misses.
White Jr tries to throw a body punch but Graves avoids it by throwing White Jr back against the cage.
White Jr scores with a nice hook to the head.
Graves misses with a shot to the kidneys.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Graves.
Graves misses with a hook to the ribs.
White Jr swings wildly with an uppercut but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Graves avoiding damage as White Jr throws knees to the body.
Graves misses with a body punch. #BC#
Graves manages to break the clinch. #T2#
White Jr misses with a body shot
and Graves counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps White Jr thinking.
Bruce White Jr seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves throws the left hand but White Jr avoids the punch easily.
White Jr throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
White Jr tries to close the distance and clinch up but Graves swats him away and circles back towards the center.
White Jr finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
White Jr ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
White Jr tries to clinch up.
White Jr swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves is looking to wear down White Jr with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by White Jr.
White Jr scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Graves thows a left - swing and a miss!
The fight stays on the outside here - White Jr looks like he's thinking about clinching though.#T3#
White Jr tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Graves manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
White Jr connects with a single shot there.
White Jr looks to score with a jab to the body but Graves is just out of range.
Graves slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
White Jr defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Graves.
White Jr misses the shot to the body.
White Jr throws out a loose jab but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Graves throws a sloppy body shot
and White Jr counters with a straight right hand.#ROC2#Graves is rocked!#CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
White Jr tries to close the distance and clinch but Graves swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Oh Graves is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Bruce White Jr seems to be getting the better of the standup.
White Jr comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
White Jr throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
White Jr drops Graves with a straight left! Oh this is bad for Graves! White Jr dives in and starts dropping bombs - the referee has no choice but to step in and save him!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:59 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Bruce White Jr!
After winning the bout, Bruce White Jr thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: SYN 1025 Choke vs Swole     
Date:   Oct 15, 2023
#R1#
Graves checks the leg kick nicely there.
Graves has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Tōshi in the buildup to the fight.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Von Alkum is just out of range.
Von Alkum takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Von Alkum moves away.
Graves uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Von Alkum.
Graves with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Von Alkum throws a quick inside leg kick.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A jab from Von Alkum misses.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Von Alkum manages to avoid it.
Graves is looking to wear down Von Alkum with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Von Alkum scores with a crisp jab that stopped Graves in his tracks. #T1#
Von Alkum waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
Graves lands a jab.
Von Alkum avoids the body shot from Graves.
Graves shoots in for a takedown but Von Alkum shows good takedown defense.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Von Alkum does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves checks a leg kick.
A jab from Von Alkum misses.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #TD#
Graves looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Von Alkum!
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T2#
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Von Alkum is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Von Alkum takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.
Graves misses with the ground and pound.
Von Alkum is trying to improve his position.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves misses with the ground and pound.
Graves trying to control the action but Von Alkum is working from the bottom.
Graves working away.#T3#
Von Alkum prevents Graves from moving into mount.
Von Alkum sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Graves trying to pass the guard but Von Alkum defending well.
Graves wants to control but Von Alkum is keeping him busy.
Graves thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Graves wants to control but Von Alkum is keeping him busy.
Von Alkum is trying to stand up here but Graves is controlling him well.
Graves passes to side control.
Graves throwing strikes but missing, from side control. #T4#
Graves working away.
Graves lands an elbow.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Von Alkum is working to avoid the ground and pound but Graves connects with a decent elbow.
Graves working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Von Alkum is trying to buck Graves off.
Graves working the ground and pound but Von Alkum is defending the strikes.
Graves advances to full mount.
Graves thowing shots but they're missing.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
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#
Von Alkum takes a jab right on the kisser.
Graves moves away from the strike by Von Alkum.
Graves takes a swing at Von Alkum's ribcage but misses.
Von Alkum throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
Graves shoots in for a takedown but Von Alkum shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Von Alkum flicks out a counter leg kick but Graves steps away.
Graves throws a jab but it's blocked by Von Alkum.
Graves on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Von Alkum. Von Alkum obviously looking to wear him down.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Von Alkum.
Graves avoids a punch combination nicely. #T1##TD#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Graves.

Von Alkum sneaks out the side door and pushes Graves away - he's back to his feet. The crowd show their appreciation for the escape.
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot. #TD#
Von Alkum gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Graves to score an easy takedown into full guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves postures up in Von Alkum's guard and throws a big left but Von Alkum blocks it. #T2#
Von Alkum is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Graves trying to control but Von Alkum is working from the bottom.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Von Alkum is keeping the position.
Von Alkum trying to keep a closed guard but Graves is proving a slippery customer.
Von Alkum keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Graves connects with a couple of short punches.#T3#
Graves is fighting to break Von Alkum's control of his arms but Von Alkum is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Von Alkum is retaining full guard.
Graves landing with the ground and pound.
Graves postures up.
Graves advances position into side control!
Sloppy strikes there by Graves.
Von Alkum takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.
Graves is working Von Alkum over with some ground and pound from side control. #T4#
Von Alkum prevents Graves from moving into mount. #SUB#
Graves swings around for an armbar but Von Alkum sees it coming a mile off and turns beautifully into Graves's guard.
Graves manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Von Alkum manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
Ernest Graves overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Von Alkum is keeping the position for now.
Von Alkum is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Von Alkum manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Graves manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
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#
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Von Alkum manages to avoid it.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Von Alkum does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves digs a good hook to Von Alkum's body.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Von Alkum 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 Graves has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Graves and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Von Alkum defending well as Graves loads up on a big left hand.
Von Alkum throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves throws a series of punches but Von Alkum moves out of range.
Von Alkum tries to land a leg kick but Graves saw it coming and moves away.
Graves wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.#T1#
Von Alkum stuffs the takedown.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Von Alkum does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves backing away here, and Von Alkum unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
A little jabbing left from Von Alkum on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Von Alkum scores with a nice head shot.#CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
The fighters circling - Von Alkum throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Von Alkum.
Graves misses with a body punch
and Von Alkum counters with a nice uppercut.
Graves takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Von Alkum uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Klaus Von Alkum has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Graves gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Von Alkum connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Von Alkum uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Graves swings for the body but Von Alkum moves out of range.
Graves misses with a two punch combination.
Graves throws a body punch but Von Alkum moves out of range.
Von Alkum scores with a jab to the jaw.#ROC2#Graves is rocked!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Von Alkum closes the distance and lands a brutal uppercut that knocks Graves out! We're looking at the replay now - he was out before he hit the floor!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:56 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Klaus Von Alkum!
After winning the bout, Klaus Von Alkum thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: SYN 1017 Seran vs Gein     
Date:   Sep 13, 2023
#R1#
De Minaur throws a leg kick that is checked
and Graves counters with a nice uppercut. #CUT2#It looks like Rod De Minaur has been cut.
De Minaur lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Graves stuns De Minaur with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
A slapping body kick lands there for De Minaur.
Rod De Minaur seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
A little feinted left hand from De Minaur on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Graves misses with a hook
and De Minaur connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Graves 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.
De Minaur tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but De Minaur was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
De Minaur cracks a nice hook into Graves's ribs.
Graves jabs at De Minaur's body.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves misses with a left hand
and De Minaur counters with a nice uppercut.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy. #T1#
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but De Minaur is just out of range.
De Minaur thinks about countering with a body kick.
De Minaur with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Graves throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
De Minaur throws a head kick that Graves semi-blocks. #CUT#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves swings and misses with a shot to the body
and De Minaur counters with a straight right hand.#ROC#Graves is rocked!
Graves tries to clinch up but De Minaur circles away and keeps his distance.
Graves is still on wobbly legs! Can De Minaur finish him?
Graves misses with the combination.
Graves seems to have recovered his senses.
De Minaur scores with a kick to the body.
Jab from De Minaur.
Rod De Minaur is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Graves lands a slapping body shot. #T2#
De Minaur lands a jab to the head.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves walks into a jab.
Graves takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
De Minaur cracks Graves with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Graves throws a body punch but De Minaur moves out of range.
De Minaur thinks about countering with a body kick.
A nice inside leg kick there by De Minaur. That's going to slow Graves down.
Graves is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down De Minaur rather than just go for the knockout.
De Minaur scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
De Minaur leaves Graves with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
De Minaur is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Graves moves out of range as De Minaur strikes.
De Minaur is really peppering his opponent's head with punches.
Graves uses good head movement to avoid the hook from De Minaur.
De Minaur looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
A jab from De Minaur does it's job there.#T3#
De Minaur pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Graves slips a straight right by De Minaur.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
De Minaur looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
De Minaur keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but De Minaur was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves misses the jab.
De Minaur thumps Graves with a low kick.
De Minaur ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
De Minaur half committed to a counter leg kick.
De Minaur connects with a solid leg kick.
Graves misses the jab.#T4#
Graves blocks a jab.
A countering left hand to the body from Graves misses.
Graves throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around De Minaur's waist but De Minaur gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Graves off to one side.
De Minaur throws a poor cross that misses
and Graves counters with a nice uppercut.
De Minaur keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
It appears De Minaur was looking to counter with a kick there.
De Minaur throws a lazy head kick
and Graves makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
De Minaur walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
De Minaur dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Graves. That did some damage!
Graves misses with a body shot.
De Minaur feinted there with a counter leg kick.
Graves throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck De Minaur on the side of the head.
Graves misses with a body shot.
De Minaur fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Graves manages to avoid it.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Graves! But no joy.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Rod De Minaur will probably get the nod.
Both fighters have cut men working on them during the interval.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
De Minaur lands with an uppercut that bounces Graves off the cage and back into range.
Decent striking displayed by De Minaur there.
De Minaur takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
De Minaur connects with a single shot there.
De Minaur connects with a body shot.
Graves lands a jab to De Minaur's midsection.
De Minaur uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
De Minaur scores with a punch to the head.
Graves lands a body shot.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Graves misses with a jab to the body
and De Minaur counters with a stiff right hand. #T1#
Nice body punch from Graves.
Jab by De Minaur.
Rod De Minaur is winning the standup battle so far.
Graves stuns De Minaur with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Graves takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Graves uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from De Minaur.
De Minaur moves out of range of the strikes.
A head kick by De Minaur misses
and Graves counters with a left to the body.
De Minaur lands a jab to the nose.
Graves throws out a loose jab but De Minaur uses good head movement to avoid it.
De Minaur takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
De Minaur throws a jab when Graves was well out of range.#T2#
De Minaur throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
De Minaur is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
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!
Graves uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from De Minaur.
That's a knee to de groin and it's over and out! Graves crumples to the ground after an illegal strike from De Minaur - the referee stops the clock and Graves gets 5 minutes to recover from that one. "I'm sorry" says De Minaur. Graves manages to get back to his feet and the fight resumes.
De Minaur fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Graves.
De Minaur throws a jab but it's blocked by Graves.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
De Minaur throws a head kick that misses.
Graves throws the left hand but De Minaur avoids the punch easily.
De Minaur throws a head kick that misses.
Graves now looks to counter with a shot at the body.#T3#
De Minaur thuds a left hand into Graves's body.
De Minaur lands a glancing blow to the side of Graves's head.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by De Minaur.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but De Minaur is just out of range.
Nice defenses there by De Minaur.
De Minaur was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
De Minaur throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but De Minaur is just out of range.
De Minaur thumps Graves with a low kick.
De Minaur scores with a leg kick.
Graves swings and misses with a shot to the body
and De Minaur counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Both these guys seem content to just stand up and trade with each other but Graves might want to think about changing up his gameplan a bit because over the course of the fight, De Minaur has got the better of the exchanges.
A jab from De Minaur misses. #T4#
De Minaur tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but De Minaur is just out of range.
De Minaur is looking to counter with head kicks.
De Minaur digs a good body shot into Graves's ribs.
A punch combination from Graves misses.
Graves misses with a body shot
and De Minaur cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves dives in for a single leg takedown but De Minaur sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
De Minaur misses with a body kick.
Graves's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.
Whack! De Minaur lands a heavy head kick that drops Graves. The ref tackles De Minaur to stop the fight - a great save by the referee because Graves was done.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:48 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Head Kick). Rod De Minaur!
Rod De Minaur took to the mic in his post fight interview and said 'Some fans where missing my KO's, well...'.

 

Event: SYN 1014 Kilo vs Drax     
Date:   Sep 01, 2023
#R1#
Graves lands a jab to Kilgore's midsection.
Graves misses with a body shot
and Kilgore counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Kilgore throws a counter high kick but Graves was just alert enough to avoid it.
Kilgore circles away from the clinch attempt.
Graves takes a swing at Kilgore's ribcage but misses.
Kilgore looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves 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.
Graves misses with a jab to the body
and Kilgore counters with a nice uppercut.
A big left from Kilgore misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves moves forwards but Kilgore connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Kilgore showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Graves.
Kilgore misses with a hook to the body
and Graves counters with a lovely straight right hand!#T1#
Graves misses the body punch
and Kilgore counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Graves throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Graves throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd. #CL2#
Graves pushes Kilgore up against the cage in a clinch.#BC#
Kilgore escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Kilgore looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Kilgore misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Kilgore does a little dance to reset his feet.#TD2#
Graves looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Kilgore!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves working away.#T2#
Graves in side control, throwing shots but Kilgore defends.
Kilgore avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Graves.
Graves misses with the ground and pound.
Graves has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Graves trying to control the action but Kilgore is working from the bottom.
Sloppy strikes there by Graves.#T3#
Graves tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
Graves looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Kilgore is avoiding damage well.
Kilgore avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Graves.
Graves advances to mount.
Poor strikes thrown by Graves there. More accuracy and less frantic strikes would help!
Kilgore tries to get back to half guard but can't. #T4#
Kilgore tries to hold on but Graves postures up.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Kilgore manages to regain half guard whilst avoiding the strikes.
Kilgore is in trouble now - Graves has advanced to mount!
Kilgore tries to get back to half guard but can't.
BOOM! Graves connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Graves punching from mount but Kilgore doing a good job of avoiding damage.
Graves lands a nice shot to the head.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
That's time! Kilgore's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Graves takes a swing at Kilgore's ribcage but misses. #CUT2#It looks like Tacitus Kilgore has been cut.#TD2#
Graves feints and as Kilgore raises his hands in defense, Graves changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Graves scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Graves showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Graves throws a big elbow that misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves throwing strikes from guard but Kilgore blocks nicely.
Kilgore knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Graves on the ground.
Graves scoring with some ground and pound. #T1#
Graves wants to pass the guard but Kilgore is keeping the position.
Kilgore is trying to control the position but Graves postures up.
Graves postures up in Kilgore's guard and throws a big left but Kilgore blocks it.
Kilgore working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Graves.
Graves throwing strikes but missing.
Graves wants to control from the top but Kilgore keeps moving.
Graves throwing strikes from guard but Kilgore blocks nicely. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Kilgore has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.#TD2#
Graves shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Graves showed some decent athleticism there.
Kilgore is staying active underneath Graves, who seems content to just control the action from this position. #T3#
Graves looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Kilgore with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Graves working to pass to mount. He's got his hand pressing down on Kilgore's thigh. Kilgore counters though and makes it back to full guard.
Graves stands and throws Kilgore's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Graves is working Kilgore over with some ground and pound from side control.
Kilgore struggling a bit here.
Kilgore avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Graves.
Graves has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
The ground and pound from Graves seems to be hitting the mat more than his opponent. #T4##SUB2#
Graves looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Kilgore is looking to reverse the position.
Graves lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face. #CUT2#Tacitus Kilgore's cut is getting worse.
Graves in side control, throwing shots but Kilgore defends.
Graves tries to score with some ground and pound. Kilgore controls his posture well this time though and the shots don't do any damage.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Graves throwing ground and pound but whilst doing so, he forgets to control position and Kilgore works his way back to half guard. Good composure under pressure.
Graves missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Tacitus Kilgore's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!#R3#
Graves takes a swing at Kilgore's ribcage but misses.
Graves takes a swing at Kilgore's ribcage but misses.
Kilgore throws a shot to the body.
Graves fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Kilgore throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
A nice side step and Graves releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Kilgore misses with an uppercut. Graves saw that one coming.
A little jabbing left from Graves on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Graves thuds a left hand into Kilgore's body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#TD2#
Graves closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Kilgore's guard.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Kilgore swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T1#
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Kilgore is keeping the position for now.
Graves working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Graves in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Graves looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.#SUB#
Kilgore has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Graves can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.#T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Graves throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Kilgore sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Kilgore keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Kilgore throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Nice body punch from Graves.
Kilgore misses with a body shot.
Graves's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Kilgore connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Graves scrambles back to his feet.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Kilgore. Graves shrugs it off though.
Kilgore uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Graves.
Kilgore throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #T3#
Graves with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Kilgore keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Kilgore tries a low kick but Graves avoids it.
Kilgore on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Graves throws a hook but Kilgore blocks it.
Nice defenses there by Graves.
Graves lands a right hook to the body.
Graves wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Graves missing with a left hand there. Kilgore was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Kilgore ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Tacitus Kilgore has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T4#
Graves moves out of range of the body kick.
A countering left hand to the body from Graves misses.
Graves moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Kilgore takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Graves dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
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!
Graves connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Kilgore does a little dance to reset his feet.
An attempted straight right counter from Kilgore misses the target.
Kilgore steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Graves.
Kilgore doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Graves stuns Kilgore with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.

And that's the end of the fight!
Ernest Graves comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Graves has outworked and out performed his opponent in all aspects of the game today. He was simply too good and the decision should be no more than a formality. 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 Hirohito Nitta scores the fight 26:30
Judge Sosuke Kotani scores the fight 26:30
Judge Yukihiro Shimada scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

Ernest Graves thanked the fans post fight for their support.

 

Event: SYN 1009 Troll vs Fin III     
Date:   Aug 11, 2023
#R1#
Bleak shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Graves pinned against the cage. Graves gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Good shot there by Bleak.
Graves looks to land a right hand but Bleak moved out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Bleak.
Graves swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.#TD2#
Bleak dives in and scores a takedown into Graves's guard.#T1#
Bleak won't allow Graves to sweep him here.
Graves is working hard here to advance position.
Graves looking to control.
Bleak trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Graves is trying to keep Bleak in close.
Graves wants to sweep but no luck.
Bleak tries to free his leg and advance position but Graves is retaining full guard. #SUB#
Bleak throws a sloppy strike and Graves has hooked up an armbar on the loose arm! He's turned and extended fully! Bleak is forced to tap! Great BJJ from Graves!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: SYN 1002 Maluga vs Washington     
Date:   Jul 14, 2023
#R1#
Graves throws a body punch but Kilgore moves out of range.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Kilgore looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Nice body punch from Graves.
Graves throws a body punch but Kilgore moves out of range.
Graves throws a looping overhand right but Kilgore ducks down to avoid it.
Kilgore moves into range and connects with a jab. #CUT#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves 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.
Kilgore throws a big shot that misses.
Kilgore takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Graves wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Kilgore is just out of range.
Graves swings for the body but Kilgore moves out of range. #CL2#
Graves closes the distance and pushes Kilgore back into the cage.
Graves has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Kilgore avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.#BC#
Kilgore breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Tacitus Kilgore is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#T1#
Kilgore chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Graves is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Kilgore rather than just go for the knockout.
Graves doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown. Kilgore tries to sprawl out of it but Graves keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Kilgore manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Graves dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Graves misses with a jab to the body
letting Kilgore counter with a right hand.
Kilgore needs to keep his hands up - Graves had a free shot at his head there.
Graves throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Kilgore throws an off balance right hand
and Graves counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
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!
Nice uppercut lands for Graves. That snapped Kilgore's head back. #T2#
Kilgore feints and then cracks Graves's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Graves down.
Graves changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Kilgore misses the shot to the body.
Kilgore gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Graves.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Kilgore scores with a nice head shot.#KD#
Kilgore sends Graves crashing to the mat with a devastating uppercut! Kilgore is motioning to the referee to let Graves up. He wants to try and finish this one on the feet!#ROC#Graves is rocked!
A telegraphed right hand from Kilgore misses the target.
Graves is still on wobbly legs! Can Kilgore finish him?
A head kick by Kilgore - that's a beauty! Graves is out but he's somehow still standing... he's going... going... gone. Like a drunk walking down the middle of the road, the inevitable face plant follows and the delayed knockout arrives. Even Kilgore can't help but laugh at the bizarre end to this one!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:39 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Head Kick). Tacitus Kilgore!
Tacitus Kilgore retains his lightweight title!
A relieved looking Tacitus Kilgore thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

 

Event: SYN 999 Olsen vs Washington     
Date:   Jul 03, 2023
#R1#
Panic misses with a low kick as Graves jumps back.
A quick step to the side and Graves tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Panic throws a looping overhand right but Graves ducks down to avoid it.
A telegraphed right hand from Panic misses the target.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Panic.
Graves throws a right and a left that Panic avoids nicely.
Graves has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Tōshi in the buildup to the fight.
Graves looks to throw the jab but Panic is out of range.
Panic avoids the body shot from Graves.
Panic fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Graves has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Panic.
Graves scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Panic uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Graves.
Panic has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.#CUT#It looks like Satanic Panic has been cut.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Panic lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
A jab from Graves does it's job there.
Nice body punch from Graves.
Panic uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Graves missing with a left hand there. Panic was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Panic goes for a spinning back kick but it misses. #T1#
Panic misses with a straight right.
Graves scores with a nice head shot.
Graves jabs at Panic's body.
Graves needs to keep his hands up - Panic had a free shot at his head there.#CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves lands a nice shot that snaps Panic's head back.
Graves keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Panic.
Graves misses with an uppercut. Panic saw that one coming.
Graves with a jab.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Panic.
Panic buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Panic manages to avoid it.
Graves throws a body punch but Panic moves out of range.
Panic misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves falls off balance throwing a combination
and Panic counters with a nice leg kick.
Panic ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
Graves lands a body shot.
Graves shoots for a double leg takedown but Panic sprawls well. He's pushed Graves's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily. #T2#
Panic chopping away at his opponent's legs.
A slapping leg kick lands for Panic.
Graves takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Panic uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Panic lands a right hook to the body.
Panic just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Graves scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Panic doesn't seem bothered though.
Panic connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Graves walks into a jab.#ROC2#Graves is rocked!
An inside leg kick lands from Panic.
Graves lands a head shot.
A right-left combo lands from Graves.
Graves misses with a hook to the body
letting Panic counter with a right hand.
Oh Graves is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Panic cracks Graves on the jaw with a powerful right hand and Graves falls backwards against the cage. Panic follows up with more strikes that drop Graves to his knees. Panic keeps the pressure on and the referee jumps in to save Graves! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Satanic Panic!
Satanic Panic decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

 

Event: SYN 992 Bleak vs Seran     
Date:   Jun 14, 2023
#R1#
Graves is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Hatfield.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Hatfield does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Hatfield.
Graves wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Hatfield throws out the jab.
Hatfield throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Graves is trying to close the distance and clinch up, after that failed offence from Hatfield.
Hatfield lands a front kick.
Graves lands with a good body shot.
Hatfield connects with a looping right hand.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hatfield swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Hatfield tries to work over Graves's front leg with a kick but Graves checks it.
Hatfield misses with a shot to the body
and Graves counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Graves is looking to wear down Hatfield with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Hatfield gets off balance looking for a body kick
and Graves makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.#T1#
Graves uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Hatfield.
Graves connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Hatfield's hands.#CL#
Graves moves into the clinch successfully.
Graves blocks an uppercut.
A right hand to the body from Graves.
Hatfield's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Graves tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Hatfield throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but Graves blocks it with crossed arms.
Hatfield scores with a shoulder strike. #BC2#
Hatfield's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves swings for the body but Hatfield moves out of range.
Hatfield closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Hatfield loads up on a big right hand but Graves slips the punch.
A counter left hand to the body from Graves misses its target.
Hatfield misses with a lunging right hand
and Graves counters with a lovely shot to the body.
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!
Hatfield tries to move into range but Graves moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.#T2#
Graves with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Hatfield doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Graves uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Hatfield.
A counter left hand to the body from Graves misses its target.
Hatfield fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Graves manages to avoid it.
Hatfield takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Hatfield avoids the body shot from Graves.
A big right from Hatfield misses.
Graves slips under a jab from Hatfield.
Hatfield clobbers Graves with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Graves lands a jab to Hatfield's midsection.
Hatfield takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.#T3#
Hatfield misses with a hook
enabling Graves to counter with a crisp jab.
Graves wants to clinch.
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
The fighters circling - Hatfield throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Hatfield misses with a straight right.
Graves wants to take advantage of his opponent's missed offense by moving into the clinch.
Graves defending well as Hatfield loads up on a big left hand.
Graves connects with a body shot that sends Hatfield's belly button to the back.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Hatfield takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
A shot to the liver by Graves. Beautiful body shot.#T4#
Graves moves away from the strike by Hatfield.
Graves is looking to counter the offense by Hatfield and move into the clinch.
Hatfield takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Hatfield tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Hatfield.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Hatfield does a little dance to reset his feet.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Hatfield! But no joy.
A combination from Hatfield does no damage.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Hatfield misses with a double jab.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Hatfield manages to avoid it.
Hatfield with a nice cross.#TD#
Graves drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Graves is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Graves 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.
Hatfield wants to stand and escape but Graves is having none of it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Graves moves out of range of the strikes.
Graves swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Graves lands a nice shot to the body.
Graves slips under a jab from Hatfield.
Hatfield avoids the body shot from Graves.
Graves misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Hatfield was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Hatfield throws a counter combo.
Ernest Graves is winning the standup battle so far.
Graves tries to clinch up but Hatfield circles away and keeps his distance.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves lands with a nice body punch.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Hatfield.
Graves ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Graves lands a body shot. #T1#
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Hatfield.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Hatfield.
It looked like Graves was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Hatfield.
Hatfield avoids the body shot from Graves.
Jab by Graves.
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Hatfield can do to turn this around?
A shot to the body from Graves misses
letting Hatfield counter with a right hand.
Hatfield throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Hatfield ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Graves moves away.
A counter left hand to the body from Graves misses its target.
Graves throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Hatfield does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Hatfield is just out of range.
Hatfield pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Hatfield scores with a jab.#T2#
Graves scores with a jab to the body.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Hatfield throws a leg kick but Graves moved away.
Graves lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves lands a right hook to the body.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Hatfield is just out of range.
A combination from Hatfield does no damage.
Hatfield attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Graves moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Graves lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Hatfield at a distance.
Hatfield misses with a hook.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Hatfield was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.#T3#
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Hatfield was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Hatfield misses the shot to the body.
Hatfield misses with a right hand
and Graves counters with a left to the body.
Hatfield misses with an uppercut. Graves saw that one coming.
Hatfield leaves Graves with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.#TD#
Graves shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.

Hatfield has scooted to the edge of the canvas and used the cage to get back to his feet. Graves has stuck on his opponent and is forcing him back against the cage.
Graves digs a right hand into Hatfield's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Hatfield's gas tank.
Hatfield is breathing heavily.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Hatfield.
Graves tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Graves lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Hatfield.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves effectively controlling the action here.#T4#
Graves struggles to land a body shot inside as Hatfield controls his hands.
Hatfield is pressed up against the cage. Graves has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Hatfield down to the mat. Hatfield avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves with a hook.
Graves defending well as Hatfield loads up on a big left hand.
The fighters circling - Hatfield throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Hatfield looks to land a left hand but Graves moved out of range nicely.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Hatfield manages to avoid it.
Graves tries to clinch up but Hatfield circles away and keeps his distance.
Graves dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves lands a nice shot to the body.
Hatfield takes a punch to the jaw and another one to the bread basket.
Hatfield misses with a hook.
Hatfield takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! This is the final round!#R3#
Graves fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves stuns Hatfield with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.#CL#
Graves has Hatfield up against the cage in a clinch.
Hatfield is looking to control Graves's arms but Graves gets an underhook and turns him. Now Hatfield has his back to the cage. #BC#
Graves breaks from the clinch.
Graves fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Hatfield is just out of range.
A little jabbing left from Hatfield on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Graves misses with a double jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves scores with a jab to the body.
Hatfield thows a left - swing and a miss!
Graves is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Graves throws a body punch but Hatfield moves out of range.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Hatfield does a little dance to reset his feet.#T1#
Hatfield lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Graves shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Hatfield but Hatfield pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Hatfield throws a series of punches but Graves avoids them all with ease.
Graves thuds a left hand into Hatfield's body.
Hatfield misses with an uppercut
and Graves makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Hatfield takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Graves misses with a body shot.
A little jabbing left from Hatfield on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Hatfield misses with a lunging right hand
and Graves counters with a stiff right hand.
Graves bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Hatfield's head.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Hatfield misses with a low kick.#CL#
Graves closes the distance and pushes Hatfield back into the cage.#T2#
Graves tries to throw a body punch but Hatfield avoids it by throwing Graves back against the cage.
Graves tries to throw a body punch but Hatfield avoids it by throwing Graves back against the cage.
Graves stalling in the clinch but Hatfield improves position.
Hatfield misses with a short punch on the inside.
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Hatfield's elbow.
Hatfield fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Hatfield's elbow.
Graves tries to throw a body punch but Hatfield avoids it by throwing Graves back against the cage.
Graves lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Hatfield backwards.
Hatfield misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Hatfield misses with a short punch on the inside.
Graves trying to control the position but instead, Hatfield has worked for underhooks and has pushed Graves into the cage.
Hatfield wants to break the clinch but can't.
Hatfield is trying to maintain a safe position but Graves gets an underhook and turns Hatfield into the cage.#BC#
Graves breaks from the clinch.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Hatfield throws a big shot that misses.#T3#
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Hatfield 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 Graves has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Graves and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Hatfield throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Graves stuns Hatfield with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Hatfield takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Graves lands with a good body shot.
Nice uppercut there from Graves.
Graves jabs Hatfield to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Graves lands an overhand right.
Hatfield takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Graves lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.#T4#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Hatfield swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Hatfield misses with a right hand
and Graves connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Graves digs a good hook to Hatfield's body.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Hatfield does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Hatfield's head backwards.
Riley Hatfield is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Graves walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Hatfield rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Graves moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Hatfield keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Hatfield doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Hatfield connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Riley Hatfield has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Ernest Graves is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Hatfield misses with a body shot.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Kenichi Hosakawa scores the fight 30:27
Judge Ren Mimura scores the fight 30:27
Judge Yukihiro Shimada scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

After winning the bout, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: SYN 988 Olsen vs Hoost     
Date:   May 26, 2023
#R1#
Bleak throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves scores with a nice head shot.
Bleak tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Bleak.
Graves blocks a jab.#TD2#
Bleak drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Bleak lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Bleak trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Bleak postures up.
Bleak postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Graves has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Bleak has passed into side control.
Bleak throws a strike aimed at the side of Graves's head but Graves avoids it well.
Bleak is looking to take a break and control but Graves is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Graves tries to improve position but can't.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T1#
Graves manages to get back to half guard.
Bleak scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Bleak wants to control but Graves is keeping him busy.
Graves on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Bleak has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Bleak passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Graves!
Graves keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Bleak working his ground and pound in the gym.
Graves is bucking up trying to escape but Bleak cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
Graves is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Graves is working hard here to advance position.#T2##SUB2#
Bleak has control of Graves's right arm, working for a kimura. It's a bit of a token attempt though and Graves regains control of the situation pretty easily.
Bleak with good strikes from the mount here!
Bleak lands a couple of good shots and Graves has given up his back, trying to escape the position!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves tries to break free.
Bleak is landing with strikes. Graves can't take much more of this.
Bleak controlling well, preventing Graves from escaping the position. #SUB2#
Bleak is working really hard to secure the rear naked choke. Graves defends successfully for a significant amount of time. Both fighters are looking very determined.
Bleak gets his hooks in and is throwing strikes.
Graves rolls and manages to get back to half guard. Nicely done. #T3#
Bleak lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Bleak winds up and cracks Graves with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Bleak looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Graves is doing well to avoid being mounted. He's controlling the position at the moment.
Ground and pound from Bleak.
Bleak trying to mount his opponent but Graves defends it.
Ground and pound from Bleak.
Graves manages to get to full guard.
Bleak working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Graves's head.#T4#
Bleak is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Bleak wants to pass the guard but Graves is keeping the position.
Bleak connects with a couple of short punches.
Graves bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Bleak's guard. #REVR##SUB2#
Bleak is looking for a triangle but Graves pushes his legs off easily. #SUB2#
Bleak is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Graves defends well.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Bleak swivels though and keeps the full guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Darsin Bleak dominated that round.
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#
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves swings for the body but Bleak moves out of range.
Bleak with the counter takedown but Graves avoids it easily.
Bleak scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.#TD2#
Bleak fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Graves to the ground. Bleak is now in Graves's guard.
Bleak has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Bleak wants to control from the top but Graves keeps moving.
Graves wants to sweep here but Bleak controlling him for the moment.
Bleak postures up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bleak trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Bleak stands up over Graves, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Bleak postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect. #T1#
Bleak looking to pass the guard.
Bleak wants to control from the top but Graves keeps moving.
Graves bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Bleak's guard. #REVR##SUB2#
Bleak is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Bleak is retaining full guard. #SUB2#
Bleak looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Graves has picked Bleak up and slammed him! Bleak can't keep hold of the triangle and Graves manages to pass to side control!
Bleak manages to land a sweep and he's now on top! Lovely Jiu Jitsu!
Graves works his way to full guard. Good work.#T2##SUB#
Graves is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Bleak defends well.#SUB#
Bleak avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Bleak scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Graves wants to sweep but no luck.
Graves trying to keep a closed guard but Bleak is proving a slippery customer.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Bleak accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Graves manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Bleak manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR##SUB2#
Graves got a little sloppy there for a moment and Bleak has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Graves has managed to get both his arms back between Bleak's legs - danger averted.#T3#
Bleak wants to sweep but no luck. #SUB2#
Bleak has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Graves can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Bleak throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Bleak keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Graves stopping the sweep attempt from Bleak.#T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Graves controls from within his opponent's guard. #SUB2#
Bleak is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Graves is aware though and is defending well.#SUB2#
Bleak throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #SUB2#
Bleak has his foot on Graves's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Graves works his way back into a safe position though.#SUB2#
Bleak is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Bleak keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves passes Bleak's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Darsin Bleak showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
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.#R3##TD2#
Bleak changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Graves looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Graves defending against the ground and pound.
Graves avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Bleak.
Graves taking punishment in the form of punches.
Bleak trying to control the position but Graves is working away.
Graves takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
Graves tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Bleak is looking to take a break and control but Graves 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.
Graves is trying to get back to half guard.#T1##SUB2#
Bleak is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Graves has escaped the position, nice work there. #SUB2#
Bleak looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Bleak is putting a hurting on Graves here, landing some big shots from side control.
Graves is in a tricky position but he's been working on his transitions down at Tōshi, so we'll see if he gets out of it.
Graves is looking to regain half guard here but Bleak keeps moving and retains side control.
Graves on the wrong end of some ground and pound.
Bleak moving around in side mount but really he's just happy to control for now. #T2#
Bleak sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Graves is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Graves defending against the ground and pound.
Bleak lands a decent elbow from side control.
Darsin Bleak has got the better of the ground game so far.
Graves tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Bleak wants to control but Graves is keeping him busy.
Bleak looks up at the clock and then as Graves takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Bleak smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude! #SUB2#
Bleak is trying to get an arm triangle but Graves is defending well.
Bleak scores with punches from side control. #ROC2#Graves is rocked!#T3#
Bleak looks up at the clock and then as Graves takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Bleak smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
Oh Graves is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!#SUB2#
Bleak is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Graves is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Bleak scores with a couple of short elbows.
Bleak trying to control the action but Graves is working from the bottom.
Graves seems to have got his legs back now.
Graves is looking for a sweep.
Graves regains half guard.
Graves regains full guard. Nicely done.
Bleak trying to control but Graves is working from the bottom.
Bleak sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Graves's guard.
Graves is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Graves slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.#T4#
Graves has momentary wrist control but Bleak slips an elbow through the middle.
Bleak works over Graves with some ground and pound from guard.
Bleak postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Bleak won't allow Graves to sweep him here.
Graves utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Graves looking for a sweep. Not yet Graves, not yet.
Bleak pushing down on Graves's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Bleak scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves is not content to let Bleak control the position.
Graves is looking for a sweep. Bleak is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Darsin Bleak really dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R4#
Graves wants to clinch up but Bleak keeps it at a distance.
Graves avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Graves uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Bleak.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Bleak moves away.
Darsin Bleak seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Bleak swings for the body but Graves moves out of range.
Graves walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Bleak avoids the body shot from Graves.
Bleak takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Bleak misses with a wild body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A looping hook to the body misses from Bleak. Graves does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves throws a body punch but Bleak moves out of range.
Bleak throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Graves sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Graves lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering. #T1#
Bleak throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Graves on the side of the head. #TD2#
Bleak looking to score a takedown here. Graves is defending well but Bleak drives through and ends up in Graves's guard.
Graves looking for a sweep. Not yet Graves, not yet. #SUB#
Graves has his foot on Bleak's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Bleak works his way back into a safe position though.
Bleak landing some decent shots from guard.
Bleak is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Bleak wants to control from the top but Graves keeps moving.
Bleak chips away with some ground and pound.#SUB#
Graves escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Bleak gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Bleak chips away with some ground and pound.#T2#
Bleak throws a big right hand that misses.
Bleak postures up.
Bleak trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Bleak missing there with some ground and pound from the guard. #SUB#
Graves is looking for a triangle but Bleak pushes his legs off easily.
Graves looking to hit a scissor sweep but Bleak is one step ahead there. #SUB#
Graves has his foot on Bleak's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Bleak works his way back into a safe position though.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Bleak forces his way into half guard.#SUB2#
Bleak 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. #T3#
Graves wants to improve his position but Bleak is controlling well.
Bleak wants to control but Graves is keeping him busy.
Bleak scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Graves is trying to get back to full guard.
Graves gets back to full guard.
Graves wants to improve his position but instead Bleak has moved into half guard. #T4#
Bleak not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Graves wants to get back to full guard.
Bleak winds up and cracks Graves with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Graves gets back to full guard.
Bleak trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Bleak pushes down on Graves's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Graves is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Bleak scores with a couple of nice shots.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves regains full guard. Nicely done.
Graves managing to control the position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Darsin Bleak dominated that fourth round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!#R5##CL2#
Bleak clinches with his opponent.
Graves misses with a punch to the body.
Graves scores with a shoulder strike. #TD2#
Bleak gets the body lock takedown. After a quick scramble, Graves regains guard.
Bleak throws a big right hand that misses.
Bleak wants to control from the top but Graves keeps moving.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bleak stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.
Graves not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Graves avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Bleak wants to control from the top but Graves keeps moving. #T1#
Graves looking for a sweep. Not yet Graves, not yet.
Bleak throwing strikes from guard but Graves blocks nicely.
Bleak keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Graves's head.
Graves looking to hit a scissor sweep but Bleak is one step ahead there.
Bleak postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Graves looking to hit a scissor sweep but Bleak is one step ahead there.
Bleak trying to control but Graves is working from the bottom.
Ernest Graves has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.#SUB#
Graves is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Bleak content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Graves is trying to control the position but Bleak postures up.
Graves avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Bleak stands up over Graves, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Bleak scoring with punches to the head and body.
Bleak won't allow Graves to sweep him here.
Bleak stands up over Graves, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Bleak is working Graves over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy. #SUB#
Graves is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Bleak defends well.#T3#
Bleak forces his way into half guard.
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.
Graves is trying to get back to full guard.
Bleak working Graves over with strikes.
Darsin Bleak is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Graves is looking to improve his position.
Bleak with a momentary lay and pray from half guard. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Graves missing with punches from the bottom.
Neither fighter is being very active at the moment, with Bleak in particular looking to stall.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Graves is trying to stand.

And that's the end of the fight!
Darsin Bleak comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Bleak 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 Sosuke Kotani scores the fight 45:50
Judge Yuuki Gou scores the fight 45:50
Judge Shigeki Sano scores the fight 45:50

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Darsin Bleak!

Darsin Bleak is the new lightweight champion!
During a confident post fight interview, Darsin Bleak thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

 

Event: SYN 984 Graves vs. Kilgore     
Date:   May 12, 2023
#R1#
Graves fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Kilgore was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Kilgore swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Kilgore ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Graves moves away.
Kilgore throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves walks into a straight right hand from Kilgore.
Graves has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Tōshi in the buildup to the fight.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kilgore throws a head kick that misses.
Kilgore tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Kilgore.
Kilgore misses the jab.
Graves appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.#T1#
Kilgore misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Kilgore throws the left hand but Graves avoids the punch easily.
Graves is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Kilgore ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Graves moves away.
A counter left hand to the body from Graves misses its target.
Kilgore changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Kilgore avoids it really well and circles away.
Kilgore loads up on a big right hand but Graves slips the punch.
Graves half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.#T2##TD#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Graves.
You can see the frustration on Kilgore's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Graves wants to control but Kilgore is keeping him busy.
Graves throwing strikes but Kilgore manages to buck up and roll into a nice reversal - now he's on top in side control!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves is positioning himself to get back to half guard. #T3#
Graves is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Kilgore's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Kilgore controlling the pace.
Kilgore prevents Graves from improving his position.
Kilgore is looking to stall here but Graves recovers full guard.
Graves lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR##T4##SUB2#
Kilgore is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Graves working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Graves throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Kilgore works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Graves's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Kilgore is keeping the position for now.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Graves postures up in Kilgore's guard and throws a big left but Kilgore blocks it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
A big left from Kilgore misses.
Graves tries to counter with a takedown but Kilgore is quick to defend against it.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Kilgore is just out of range.
It seemed like Kilgore was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.#CL2#
Kilgore clinches up against the cage.
Graves misses with a shot to the kidneys. #TD#
Graves jumps guard and drags Kilgore to the mat. He's obviously going to be looking for submissions off his back.
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kilgore stays in close to Graves's body and controls the position.
Graves wants to sweep but no luck. #T1#
Kilgore is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.#SUB#
Graves is looking to cinch up a triangle. Kilgore throws the leg off to one side though and gets in tight to Graves's body to avoid the submission. Graves has instead reached around Kilgore's neck and now has a guillotine! Oh, this is biiiig trouble! Graves arches his back and squeezes and forces the tap from his hapless opponent.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:27 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves retains his lightweight title!
After winning the bout, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: SYN Supernova XIII     
Date:   Apr 22, 2023
#R1#
Kilgore throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Graves sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Graves feints the counter takedown.
Graves takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Graves walks into a jab.
Kilgore throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
And Graves tries to counter it with a takedown but Kilgore pushes his down on his head and steps out.
A swing and a miss from Kilgore.
Kilgore lands a lovely overhand right.
Kilgore swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Graves let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Tacitus Kilgore seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Kilgore misses with a low kick as Graves jumps back.
Kilgore looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Graves moves out of range of the leg kick from Kilgore.
Graves on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kilgore throws a leg kick #TD2#
and Graves counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Graves.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Kilgore is retaining full guard.
Graves landing some decent shots from guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Graves accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand. #T1#
Kilgore looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Graves throwing strikes from guard but Kilgore blocks nicely.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Kilgore is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Kilgore is retaining full guard.
Graves keeps trying to improve his position.#T2#
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.
Graves trying to control but Kilgore is working from the bottom.
Graves throws a big elbow that misses.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters, thinking about a standup.
Kilgore trying to control the position. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Graves uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Kilgore.
Graves appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Kilgore throws a leg kick #TD2#
and Graves counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Graves is keen to just control but Kilgore is a slippery customer.
Kilgore keeping hold of Graves's head, controlling as best he can.
Graves is pressing down on Kilgore's thigh, looking to free his foot. Kilgore is holding on for now. #T3#
Graves is looking to pass Kilgore's guard but actually Kilgore recovers to full guard.
Kilgore keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Graves accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Kilgore is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves is fighting to break Kilgore's control of his arms but Kilgore is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.#T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Kilgore is keeping the position.
Graves throwing strikes from guard but Kilgore blocks nicely.
Graves engaging in some classic timewasting tactics. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Graves blocks a low kick nicely.
Kilgore cracks Graves with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Kilgore avoids the body shot from Graves.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Kilgore throws a leg kick but Graves sees it coming and checks it nicely.
Kilgore thows a leg kick but Graves checks it #TD2#
and Graves counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Kilgore is controlling Graves's trapped leg to prevent Graves from advancing to side control.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Kilgore moves out of range as Graves strikes.
Kilgore throws a leg kick but Graves moved away.
Graves doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Graves takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Kilgore swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Graves avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Kilgore misses with a wild body shot.
And Graves tries to counter it with a takedown but Kilgore pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Kilgore scores with a hook.
Kilgore looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Tacitus Kilgore is winning the standup battle so far.
Kilgore cracks Graves with an open hand slap.
Kilgore misses with a right hand
and Graves counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Kilgore.
Graves let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Kilgore lands a right hook to the body.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Kilgore manages to avoid it.
Kilgore throws a low kick but Graves moves out of range easily.
Graves now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Kilgore misses with a body shot.
Graves feints the counter takedown.
Tacitus Kilgore is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#T1#
Kilgore connects with a single shot there.
Kilgore throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Kilgore looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Kilgore misses with a body kick.
A countering left hand to the body from Graves misses.
Kilgore misses with a hook. Graves ducked under it nicely.
Graves with the counter takedown but Kilgore avoids it easily.
Graves is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Kilgore rather than just go for the knockout.
Kilgore throws out a leg kick but Graves moves out of range and Kilgore only half commits.
Graves feints the counter takedown.
Kilgore throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Despite the aggression on Graves's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
A low kick from Kilgore misses #TD2#
and Graves counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Graves.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Kilgore is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Kilgore trying to control the position. #T2#
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Kilgore swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Kilgore is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Kilgore keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Graves wants to control from the top but Kilgore keeps moving.
Kilgore seems keen to control Graves's posture.#REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.#T3#
Kilgore with a hook.
Kilgore throws a hook but Graves blocks it.
Kilgore misses the jab.
Kilgore moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Kilgore lands a leg kick that knocks Graves off balance momentarily.
Kilgore looks to throw the jab but Graves is out of range.
Graves let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Graves uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Kilgore.
Kilgore misses with an uppercut. Graves saw that one coming.
Kilgore walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Graves checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
Kilgore swings and misses with a shot to the body#TD2#
and Graves counters with a single leg into guard. Kilgore didn't expect that.
Ernest Graves has got the better of the ground game so far.
Kilgore utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Kilgore controls Graves momentarily but Graves frees himself. #T4#
Kilgore keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Kilgore is keeping the position.
Kilgore controls Graves momentarily but Graves frees himself.
Kilgore avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves trying to control but Kilgore is working from the bottom.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tacitus Kilgore dominated that second round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R3#
Kilgore throws an ugly left hook that misses #TD2#
and Graves counters with a single leg into guard. Kilgore didn't expect that.
Graves wants to control from the top but Kilgore keeps moving.
Graves throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Kilgore works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Kilgore has control of Graves's left arm, preventing Graves from doing any damage.
Graves postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Graves cracks Kilgore with a solid left hand.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Graves throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Kilgore works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Kilgore keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully. #T1#
Graves throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Kilgore works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Graves is looking to work some ground and pound but Kilgore has wrist control.
Graves throwing strikes from guard but Kilgore blocks nicely.
Graves controlling from the top position. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Kilgore misses with a straight right.
Kilgore just misses with a punch to the body.
And Graves tries to counter it with a takedown but Kilgore pushes his down on his head and steps out.
A slapping leg kick lands for Kilgore.
Kilgore throws an overhand right that lands on Graves's shoulder, as Graves tries to avoid the shot.
Kilgore throws out a powerful jab.
Graves bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.#T2#
Kilgore tries a low kick but Graves avoids it.
Graves tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Kilgore throws a leg kick but Graves sees it coming and moves out of range.
Kilgore fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Graves on the side of the head.
Kilgore throws a hook but Graves avoids it easily.
Kilgore throws a lazy uppercut
and Graves counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Kilgore misses with a lunging right hand
and Graves counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Some wild striking there from Kilgore.
Graves doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
The fighters circling - Kilgore throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Graves tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Decent striking displayed by Kilgore there.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Kilgore scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Kilgore misses with an uppercut
and Graves counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Kilgore throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Graves sees it coming and avoids it easily.#T3#
Graves blocks a jab.
Kilgore thows a leg kick but Graves checks it #TD2#
and Graves decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Kilgore's guard.
Graves advances to half guard.
Graves is just content to waste time from the top position. Kilgore takes advantage of the situation and regains full guard.
Graves engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Kilgore is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T4#
Graves missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Graves postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Kilgore works some decent striking defense from the bottom. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Kilgore throws a body punch but Graves moves out of range.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves really dominated that round.
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.#R4#
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Kilgore.
A big right from Kilgore misses.
Kilgore throws a jab when Graves was well out of range.
Kilgore throws a leg kick #TD2#
so Graves counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Kilgore is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves chips away with some ground and pound.
Kilgore seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves connects with a couple of short punches.
Graves trying to control but Kilgore is working from the bottom.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #T1#
Graves loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Kilgore holds on and takes a little breather.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Kilgore swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves with a flurry of punches that miss.
Kilgore keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Kilgore throws a body punch but Graves moves out of range.
Graves drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Kilgore defends it well.
The fighters circling - Kilgore throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
And Graves tries to counter it with a takedown but Kilgore pushes his down on his head and steps out.#T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Kilgore buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Kilgore jabs Graves to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Kilgore scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Kilgore throws a lazy uppercut #TD2#
and Graves counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Graves.
Graves trying to control but Kilgore is working from the bottom.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Graves working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Kilgore is retaining full guard.
Kilgore preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Graves passes into half guard. #T3#
Kilgore is trying to maintain the position but Graves is very close to passing his half guard.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Kilgore is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Graves is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Kilgore won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Graves lands strikes from half guard.
Kilgore wants to improve his position but Graves is controlling well. #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.
Graves lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt. #CUT2#It looks like Tacitus Kilgore has been cut.
Graves throwing shots but Kilgore is blocking nicely.
Graves throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but Kilgore is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Graves throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Graves takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that fourth round.
The cut man is working on Tacitus Kilgore's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. Let's get this one finished - here comes the final round!#R5#
Graves looks to land a right hand but Kilgore moved out of range.
Graves slips under a jab.
Graves appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Kilgore throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Kilgore throws a leg kick that is checked#TD2#
and Graves counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Graves with a momentary lay and pray from half guard.
Graves prevents Kilgore from improving his position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kilgore is refusing to be controlled, as Graves sits in half guard. #T1#
Graves working over Kilgore with some ground and pound. Kilgore looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Graves thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Kilgore's head.
Kilgore is looking to control Graves's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Kilgore avoid being mounted?
Graves is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for Kilgore!
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Kilgore is looking to escape.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves lands a shot to the body, followed up by a shot to the exposed head of his trapped opponent. #T2#
Kilgore is bucking up trying to escape but Graves cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
BOOM! Graves connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Graves in mount throwing good strikes here, bouncing his opponent's head off the canvas.
Graves controlling from mount.
Graves thowing strikes but they're hitting the gloves, not doing any damage.
Poor strikes thrown by Graves there. More accuracy and less frantic strikes would help!
Kilgore is desperately trying to improve his position but Graves has a good base and remains in mount.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
The referee warns Kilgore that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head.
Graves postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Kilgore looks a forlorn figure. #T3#
Graves punching from mount but Kilgore doing a good job of avoiding damage.
Graves has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves throws some wild stikes that Kilgore manages to avoid easily.
Kilgore is bucking up trying to escape but Graves cracks him with another couple of good strikes.#ROC2#Kilgore is rocked!#CUT2#Tacitus Kilgore's cut is getting worse.
A big strike lands for Graves! That's really hurt Kilgore and he's turned his back - Graves keeps firing away and the ref dives in to stop the fight! Graves jumps to his feet to celebrate the victory!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:47 of round 5, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves is the new lightweight champion!
A relieved looking Ernest Graves thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

 

Event: SYN 974 Maluga vs. Fuentes     
Date:   Apr 07, 2023
#R1#
Vice swings for the body but Graves moves out of range.
Graves tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Vice throws a shot from downtown. Graves moves away and avoids it.
Vice misses with a hook.
A nice side step and Graves releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Vice swings for the body but Graves moves out of range.
Graves is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Vice with a body shot.
Graves avoids the body shot from Vice.
Graves steps in looking to clinch after the strikes miss from Vice.
Graves lands a nice shot to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
The fighters circling - Vice throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Graves is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Vice takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Vice misses with an uppercut. #T1#
Graves takes one on the chin but seems OK. #CL2#
Graves closes the distance and clinches.
Vice makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Vice working hard to break the clinch.
Graves doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Graves leaning against his opponent.
Vice misses with some punches.
Graves misses with a punch on the inside. #TD2#
Graves lands a nice trip takedown into half guard.
Vice is looking to get back to is feet but Graves passes into side control.
Vice is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Graves asserts his dominance and retains side control.
Vice prevents Graves from moving into mount.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Vice is avoiding damage well.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Vice keeps working. #T2#
Graves is putting a hurting on Vice here, landing some big shots from side control.
Graves cracks Vice with a big right hand but Vice just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
Vice is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Graves has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Graves working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
Vice gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there!
Vice really wants to buck Graves off and get back to his feet.
Graves lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Vice wants to get back to his feet.
Vice takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
Graves looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
Vice'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.
Graves lands a nice shot to the head.
Graves has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
The referee warns Vice that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head. #T3#
Graves raining down hammerfists from mount.
Graves fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
Vice is trying to get to the cage to help him get back to his feet.
Graves working away from the top, dropping strikes.#CUT2#It looks like Miami Vice has been cut.
Graves is in the full mount, landing strikes.
Vice wants to use the cage to get back to his feet here.
Graves has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Vice's face.
Graves postures up and lands a whopping elbow - oh that's hurt Vice bigstyle! Two more strikes land for Graves and the fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
Our winner, Ernest Graves, 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: SYN 967 Maluga vs. Bigg     
Date:   Mar 15, 2023
#R1##TD2#
Graves gets a takedown into half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves throwing shots but Blyad is blocking nicely.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Graves working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
Graves is nestled in close to Blyad, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Blyad keeps working.
Graves working Blyad over with strikes. #SUB#
Blyad is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Graves pulls his head out easily.
Blyad trying to control here.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves passes to side control.
Graves looks up at the clock and then as Blyad takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Graves smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude! #T1#
Graves wants to control but Blyad is keeping him busy.
Blyad avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Graves.
Graves working the body and head with strikes.
Blyad prevents Graves from moving into mount.
Graves has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Graves trying to control the action but Blyad is working from the bottom.
Graves advances nicely into full mount.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T2#
Graves lands a big elbow.
Graves lands with some vicious ground and pound - can Blyad hang on?
Blyad tries to lock up and control but Graves gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Graves lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Graves is still in mount, landing shots to his trapped opponent. Blyad can't stay in a position like this for much longer.
Oooooh, big shot lands for Graves! Blyad is hurt baaadly! Graves is firing away with more strikes - Blyad is covering up... the ref is warning him to do something. He's just covering up though still and the ref has to step in to end the fight! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:45 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
A victorious Ernest Graves thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

 

Event: SYN 960 Randleman vs. Dinapoli     
Date:   Feb 22, 2023
#R1#
Takahashi connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Takahashi moves in looking to clinch but Graves pushes him off.
Graves changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Ryoto Takahashi seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Takahashi loads up on a big right hand but Graves slips the punch.
Graves half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Takahashi 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.
Takahashi missing with a left hand there. Graves was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Graves half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Takahashi throws a looping overhand right but Graves ducks down to avoid it.
Graves has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Tōshi in the buildup to the fight.
Graves on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
Takahashi thows a body kick. Graves tries to catch it but that hurt him.
Takahashi throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
A quick step to the side and Graves tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves misses with a takedown attempt
and Graves takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Takahashi misses with a left hand #TD#
so Graves counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Takahashi is adopting a defensive guard.#T1#
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Takahashi is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Takahashi keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Graves throwing strikes from guard but Takahashi blocks nicely.
Graves seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up.
Takahashi 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.#T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Takahashi keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Takahashi working a defensive guard here. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Takahashi lands with a thumping leg kick.
Takahashi throws the left hand but Graves avoids the punch easily.
Takahashi doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.#CL#
Graves fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Takahashi, pushing him back against the cage.#T3#
Graves stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Takahashi digs a right hand underneath Graves's ribcage. Graves let out a lung full of air as it connected.
Takahashi tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Graves stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Takahashi is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Takahashi misses with a body punch.
Takahashi throws a punch but it's blocked by Graves.
Takahashi tries to throw a body punch but Graves avoids it by throwing Takahashi back against the cage.
Graves is looking for a takedown.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves goes for a takedown in the clinch but Takahashi prevents it.
Takahashi tries a body shot but Graves blocks it.
Takahashi blocking some punches.
Takahashi tries to throw a body punch but Graves avoids it by throwing Takahashi back against the cage.
Graves works on Takahashi's body with a couple of short punches.
Graves will no doubt start fighting again in a minute but for now he's just having a little rest, leaning Takahashi up against the cage.
Takahashi misses with a body punch. #T4#
Graves tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Graves lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Graves stalling.
Graves swings wildly with an uppercut but Takahashi uses good head movement to avoid it.
Takahashi pushes Graves back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Takahashi.
Graves lands with a left to the head.
Graves blocks a body shot from Takahashi.
Graves has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Takahashi avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Graves wants a takedown but no success here.
Graves taking a breather.
Graves lands a hook to the side of the head.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves dictating the pace here, as the fighters clinch against the cage.
Takahashi tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Takahashi tries to work over Graves's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Graves is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Graves goes for a takedown attempt but Takahashi pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
Takahashi connects with a body shot.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Ryoto Takahashi will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.#R2#
Takahashi turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Takahashi lands with a shot to the body.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body. #CL2#
Takahashi closes the distance and pushes Graves back into the cage.
Graves lands a right hand.
Takahashi misses with a body punch.
Graves tries a body shot but Takahashi blocks it.
Takahashi lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Takahashi lands with a left to the head.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves lands a hook to the side of the head.
Graves wants a takedown but no success here.
Takahashi tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Takahashi tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Graves is stalling here.
Graves is trying to drag Takahashi to the mat but Takahashi just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.#T1#
Nice body punch from Takahashi.
Takahashi scores with a shot to the side of Graves's head.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Takahashi.
Takahashi lands a right hand.
Graves blocking some punches.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Graves.
Takahashi tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Both guys are working to get underhooks.
Takahashi lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Graves backwards.
Both guys are working to get underhooks.
Takahashi misses with a punch to the body.
Takahashi struggles to land a body shot inside as Graves controls his hands.
Takahashi has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves wants to stall.
A head punch on the inside from Graves fails to land.
Graves looking for a takedown.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
A short right from Takahashi on the inside.
Graves's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!#T2#
Takahashi working aggressively here.
Takahashi gets through Graves's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Takahashi's elbow.
Takahashi works on Graves's body with a couple of short punches.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Takahashi tries a body shot but Graves blocks it.
Takahashi prevents a body shot from Graves.
Takahashi lands a nice uppercut.
Graves tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Graves lands on the inside with an uppercut.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Graves.
Graves lands a body punch.
A nice right hand lands inside from Takahashi.
Takahashi swings away with an uppercut that misses.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Takahashi.
Takahashi scores with a shot to the side of Graves's head.
A nice right hand lands inside from Takahashi.
Takahashi swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Takahashi blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Takahashi throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Gravess head.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Graves. #T3#
Graves is working Takahashi over against the cage.
Graves tries to work over Takahashi's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Graves fails to pull guard.
Takahashi is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Graves doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Takahashi lands with a short shot to the head.
Takahashi is working Graves over against the cage.
A head punch on the inside from Takahashi fails to land.
A short uppercut from Takahashi.
Takahashi throws a punch but it's blocked by Graves.
Takahashi tries a body shot but Graves blocks it.
Graves pushes Takahashi back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
Graves lands a shoulder strike.
A nice right hand lands inside from Takahashi.
Graves tries to throw a body punch but Takahashi avoids it by throwing Graves back against the cage.
Graves drops down looking for an ankle pick but Takahashi pulls his leg out and moves away.
Nice cross by Takahashi.#ROC2#Graves is rocked!#T4#
Takahashi pushes Graves away with a front kick.
Oh Graves is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Takahashi cracks Graves with a big right hand that sees him stumbling back against the cage! Graves falls to his knees and Takahashi doesn't need a second invitatation - he rushes in and fires off several unanswered shots that force the referee to stop the fight! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:21 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ryoto Takahashi!
Ryoto Takahashi seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: SYN 953 Maluga vs. Leifsson 6     
Date:   Jan 25, 2023
#R1#
A shot to the body from Graves misses
and Vice counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Vice cracks Graves with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Graves fails with a takedown attempt.
Vice throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Vice misses with an uppercut. Graves saw that one coming.
A slapping leg kick lands for Vice.
Graves closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so. #T1#
Graves drops his hands momentarily and Vice takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head. #ROC2#Graves is rocked!#CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Vice throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Graves.
Graves went nuts there looking for a big combo counter but none of the flurry connected.
Graves fails with a takedown attempt. #TD#
Graves is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Vice's half guard.

Vice kicks off Graves and gets to his feet. #T2#
Graves takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!#KD2#
Vice cracks Graves with a big right hand that sends him to the floor! Graves looks wobbly but he's sprung back up to his feet straight away… can Vice finish him?
Oh Graves is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Vice circles away from the clinch attempt
and Vice counters with a powerful cross that connects right on the chin and the lights go out! A massive one punch knock out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:29 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Miami Vice!
After winning the bout, Miami Vice thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: SYN 948 Garuda vs. Krylov     
Date:   Jan 08, 2023
#R1#
Graves slips a jab from Myers.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Myers defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Graves.
Myers thuds his right hand into Graves's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.#CL#
Myers gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Nice body punch from Graves - that landed with a thud.
Graves is trying to stall. #TD#
Myers pulls guard effortlessly.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Myers is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB#
Myers is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Myers working away from the bottom but not quite defensive enough there because Graves has passed into half guard! #T1#
Graves is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
Graves scores with a couple of good head shots there.
Myers is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Graves landing punches.
Myers tries to lock up and control but Graves gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Graves has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.#T2#
Graves pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Graves working away from the top, dropping strikes.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Graves working his ground and pound in the gym. So far it seems to be working well.
Myers taking shots to the head.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Myers can't escape the position.
Graves raining down shots from the mount!
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Graves lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.#ROC2#Myers is rocked!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Myers takes a big shot to the dome and his eyes have rolled back in his head! Graves's killer instinct has kicked in as he finishes the fight with more strikes. Impressive finish.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
After winning the bout, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: SYN 943 Exotic vs. Bird     
Date:   Dec 14, 2022
#R1#
Graves shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Seran defends it nicely.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Seran lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Seran keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves misses with a jab to the body
and Seran counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.#CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Seran.
Seran was about to counter that last move with a leg kick but changes his mind.#TD#
Graves fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Seran to the ground. Graves is now in Seran's guard.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #T1#
Seran utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Graves 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.
Graves loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Graves postures up.
Seran can't keep his opponent in guard - Graves advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Seran tries to get to full guard but Graves has control of the leg. #T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Seran wants to control but Graves is keeping busy.
Seran wants to get back to full guard.
Seran slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Graves working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Seran's head.#SUB2#
Seran has an omoplata and is looking to use it perhaps as a submission or perhaps to transition. Graves is in a bit of discomfort here, but he's managed to free himself and has dived into side control! That didn't work out too well for Seran.
Seran wants to control but Graves postures up.#T3#
Graves wants to control but Seran is keeping him busy.
Graves in side control, throwing shots but Seran defends.
Seran is trying to improve his position.
Seran can't do much from the bottom here.
Graves tries to advance to mount but Seran denies him.
You can see the frustration on Seran's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Seran keeps working.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.
Seran is looking for a sweep.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves trying to control the action but Seran is working from the bottom. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Graves misses with a hook to the body
and Seran counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Graves throws a right hand that misses
and Seran counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Graves fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Graves shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Seran but Seran pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Seran was about to counter that last move with a leg kick but changes his mind.
Graves thuds a left hand into Seran's body.#TD#
Graves is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Seran's half guard.
Graves scoring with strikes to the body and head. #CUT#It looks like Olyn Seran has been cut.
Seran gets back to full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Seran wants to sweep but no luck.
Graves lands a couple of digs.#T1#
Graves won't allow Seran to sweep him here.
Ernest Graves overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#SUB2#
Seran is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Graves is aware though and is defending well.
Graves throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Seran works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Graves working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Seran's head.
Graves trying to control but Seran is working from the bottom.
Graves engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Seran wants to sweep here but Graves controlling him for the moment. #T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Graves slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Seran stops Graves from passing to mount.
Seran is trying to improve his position.
Seran is trying to control Graves's posture but Graves avoids it.
Graves tries to move into full mount but can't pass Seran's legs. #T3#
Graves lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Seran down.
Graves landing strikes.
Seran tries to buck Graves off but Graves is having none of it.
Graves throws a knee to the body but it doesn't do much damage.
Graves scores with punches from side control.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Seran keeps working.
Graves is really struggling to control Seran but he's trying to hold on to the position.
Graves slows the pace down. #T4#
Seran is trying to improve his position.
Who's going to make the next move?
Seran sneaks back into half guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Seran is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
Both fighters have cut men working on them during the interval.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
Graves shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Seran defends it nicely.
Graves swings away with a body shot that misses
and Seran cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Seran dodges the punch combination from Graves.
Seran throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
Graves misses with a body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves shoots in but no luck this time.
Seran let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown but Seran manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Graves's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Seran! But no joy.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Graves sizes up Seran with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle. #T1#
Graves is trying hard to land a takedown here. Seran sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
A countering left hand to the body from Seran misses.
Olyn Seran seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Seran throws a counter combo.
Graves tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Seran swivels and escapes.#TD#
Graves gets the takedown into side control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Seran is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Olyn Seran has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Graves working away.
Graves landing a few strikes.
Graves lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Seran is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Graves landing strikes. #T3#
Seran is looking for a sweep.
Seran is not content to let Graves control the position.
Seran is trying to get back to half guard.
Seran manages to work his way to half guard, despite Graves's best efforts.#T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Seran is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Seran has hold of Graves's hands but Graves slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Graves is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
Seran is looking to improve his position but Graves isn't that keen on the idea.
Graves raining down hammerfists from mount.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Seran is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Seran throwing punches from his back but nothing is landing.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Paul Tew scores the fight 30:27
Judge Daniel Bishop scores the fight 30:27
Judge James Glass scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

Ernest Graves thanked the fans post fight for their support.

 

Event: C141: De Minaur vs. Graves 2     
Date:   Nov 19, 2022
#R1#
A swing and a miss from De Minaur.
Graves misses with a takedown
enabling De Minaur to counter with a crisp jab. #CUT#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
The fighters circling - De Minaur throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Graves gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily #KD#
and De Minaur counters with a nice right hand that sends Graves toppling to the canvas! Graves scrambles and gets back to his feet - can De Minaur finish him?!#ROC#Graves is rocked!
Are you kidding me?! De Minaur ducked down and unloaded an uppercut from hell that sent Graves clean off his feet! Someone make me a GIF - that's knockout of the night for sure!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:25 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Rod De Minaur!
Rod De Minaur retains his lightweight title!
Rod De Minaur decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

 

Event: C135: Mumu vs. Puno 2     
Date:   Oct 15, 2022
#R1#
Graves throws a series of punches but Ji Woo avoids them all with ease.
Ji Woo tries a quick counter leg kick but Graves is wise to it.#TD#
Graves gets the takedown into side control.
Ji Woo manages to land a sweep and he's now on top! Lovely Jiu Jitsu!
Graves is trying to get back to full guard.
Ji Woo is taking a breather. Graves 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.
Graves is looking to improve his position.
Ji Woo looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Graves tries to roll over but Ji Woo keeps him under control.
Ji Woo seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense. #T1#
Ji Woo is trying to control the action in half guard but Graves is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Ji Woo is thwarting Graves's attempts to control the position.
Graves gets back to full guard.
Graves is trying to control the position from the bottom.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Ji Woo stands and throws Graves's legs to the side, diving into side control.
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.
Ji Woo wants to control but Graves is keeping him busy.
Ji Woo has knee on belly and moves into mount.
Ji Woo sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.
Ji Woo can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Graves is looking to escape.
Graves is writhing around trying to get back to his feet. #T3#
Graves is looking to improve his position but Ji Woo isn't that keen on the idea.
Graves wants to hold on but Ji Woo pushes him away.
Graves working to try and regain half guard.
Ji Woo tries to control but Graves wriggling away.
Ji Woo controlling the pace for now.
Let's hope that Ji Woo has the urge to step up the pace any second now because for the last 15 or 20 seconds he's just been holding on tight.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Graves tries to lock up and control but Ji Woo gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Graves working to try and regain half guard.
Graves tries to hold on but Ji Woo pushes him away.
Ji Woo looking to control and managing it successfully.
Graves really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Graves is working hard here to advance position.
Ji Woo trying to control but Graves is having none of it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Bong Ji Woo dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2##TD#
Graves changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Ji Woo looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Ji Woo tries to bench press Graves off him but Graves keeps the position.
Ji Woo can't do much from the bottom here.
Ji Woo tries to improve position but can't.
Graves looks up at the clock and then as Ji Woo takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Graves smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
We've been hearing that Graves has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Ji Woo is trying to control Graves's posture but Graves avoids it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Ji Woo to see if he's OK.
Ji Woo is looking to regain half guard here but Graves keeps moving and retains side control.
Graves looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Ji Woo is avoiding damage well. #T1#
The ground and pound from Graves seems to be hitting the mat more than his opponent.
The strikes coming from Graves are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
Ji Woo wants to control but Graves postures up.
Graves advances to full mount.
Graves lands with some strikes.
Graves punishing his opponent with strikes.
Ji Woo is wriggling around trying to escape.
Graves trying to control but Ji Woo is having none of it.
Graves lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.#T2#
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Ji Woo is looking to escape.
Ji Woo 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.
Ji Woo is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Graves seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
Ji Woo keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound. #T3#
Graves prevents Ji Woo from improving his position.
Ji Woo is refusing to be controlled, as Graves sits in half guard.
Ji Woo is looking to control Graves's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Ji Woo avoid being mounted?
Ji Woo is staying active underneath Graves, who seems content to just control the action from this position. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Ji Woo trying to control from the bottom. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Ji Woo can do to turn this around?
Ji Woo throws the left hand but Graves avoids the punch easily.
Graves swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
and Ji Woo counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Graves thinking.
Graves thuds a left hand into Ji Woo's body.
A jab from Graves does it's job there.
Graves scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves swings for the body but Ji Woo moves out of range.
Ji Woo throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Graves walks into a stiff left hand from Ji Woo.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Ji Woo does a little dance to reset his feet.
Ji Woo throws a shot from downtown. Graves moves away and avoids it.
A counter left hand to the body from Graves misses its target.
Graves looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Graves lands with a good body shot.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves lands with a right hand.
Ji Woo takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Graves scores with a shot to the body.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Graves appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Ji Woo keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ji Woo throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Ji Woo slips a jab and a cross from Graves.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Graves lands a right hook to the body.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves misses with a looping left.#T1#
Ji Woo takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Ji Woo lands with a kick to the ribs.
Graves lands with a good body shot.
Ernest Graves is winning the standup battle so far.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Ji Woo looks to score with a jab to the body but Graves is just out of range.
Bong Ji Woo is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Ji Woo stuffs the takedown.
Graves lands a nice hook to Ji Woo's body. Ji Woo takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Ji Woo throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves 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.
Sloppy strikes from Graves. Those never looked like landing.
Graves staying out of range there.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Ji Woo moves away.
Graves scores with a jab to the body.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #T2#
Graves bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves misses with a jab to the body
and Ji Woo cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
That's a knee to de groin and it's over and out! Graves crumples to the ground after an illegal strike from Ji Woo - the referee stops the clock and Graves gets 5 minutes to recover from that one. "I'm sorry" says Ji Woo. Graves manages to get back to his feet and the fight resumes.
Graves misses with a double jab.
Ji Woo appeared to try and counter that last move with a leg kick.
Graves jabs at Ji Woo's body.
Ji Woo connects with a crisp jab.
Ji Woo just misses with a punch to the body.
Ji Woo paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Ji Woo thumps Graves with a low kick.
A telegraphed right hand from Ji Woo misses the target.
Graves is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Graves takes a swing at Ji Woo's ribcage but misses.
Graves missing with a left hand there. Ji Woo was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Graves punishes Ji Woo's body with a nice straight punch.#T3##TD#
Graves fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Ji Woo sprawls well initially but Graves persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Still in half guard, Graves seems content to control.
Ji Woo moves into full guard.
Graves is stalling in the full guard.
Ji Woo is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Graves trying to control but Ji Woo is working from the bottom.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Ji Woo is keeping the position for now. #T4#
Ji Woo keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters, thinking about a standup.
Ji Woo not looking particularly offensive just at the moment. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Ji Woo.
Ji Woo uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Ji Woo misses with a body kick.
Ji Woo pivots, looking for a leg kick but Graves is out of range and Ji Woo settles back down.
Graves was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Ji Woo throws a body kick, spinning off balance#TD#
and Graves counters with a nice double leg into side control. Ji Woo won't be happy with that.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ji Woo is looking to regain half guard here but Graves keeps moving and retains side control.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 29:28
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 29:28
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

An out of breath Ernest Graves thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: C130: Graves vs. De Minaur     
Date:   Sep 24, 2022
#R1#
De Minaur throws a hook but Graves avoids it easily.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but De Minaur moves away.
De Minaur swings for the body but Graves moves out of range.
De Minaur throws a big shot that misses.
De Minaur explodes with a nice body kick and back out of range. Nice work.
Graves throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent De Minaur stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Graves swings for the body but De Minaur moves out of range.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves on the wrong end of a nice hook.#CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from De Minaur.
Graves misses with a telegraphed body shot #KD2#
and De Minaur counters with a nice right hand that sends Graves toppling to the canvas! Graves scrambles and gets back to his feet - can De Minaur finish him?!#ROC2#Graves is rocked!
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves walks into a picture perfect straight right hand from De Minaur! He's gone down face first to the canvas, unconscious before he even hit the floor! Ohhhh. My. Goodness! That boys and girls was a beautiful knockout! Give that man a biscuit!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:53 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Rod De Minaur!
Rod De Minaur is the new lightweight champion!
During a confident post fight interview, Rod De Minaur thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

 

Event: C125: Dixon vs. Skystalker     
Date:   Sep 03, 2022
#R1#
Sloppy strikes from Graves. Those never looked like landing.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves lands a nice hook to Reinikainen's body. Reinikainen takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Graves punishes Reinikainen's body with a nice straight punch.
Reinikainen wants to clinch up but Graves keeps it at a distance.
Reinikainen on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Graves tries to score a power double leg takedown but Reinikainen sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Graves somewhat.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves misses with a jab, cross combination.
Reinikainen throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
Reinikainen fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Graves checks it well.
Graves has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Tōshi in the buildup to the fight.
Graves throws a shot to the body.
Reinikainen walks into a left hand. #T1##CL2#
Reinikainen clinches.
Reinikainen misses with a short punch on the inside.
Graves lands a body shot in the clinch.
Graves tries to score a body lock takedown but Reinikainen shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Graves blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Graves prevents a body shot from Reinikainen.
Reinikainen misses with a body punch.
Reinikainen is a painfully thin specimen of a man. You do wonder whether a good body kick would snap him clean in two.
Reinikainen throws a head punch that misses.
A head punch on the inside from Reinikainen fails to land.
Graves goes for a takedown attempt but Reinikainen pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Reinikainen avoids the body shot from Graves.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Reinikainen.
Graves scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Reinikainen doesn't seem bothered though.
Graves has his takedown stuffed
letting Reinikainen counter with a right hand. #CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.#T2#
Reinikainen throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
A counter left hand to the body from Graves misses its target.
Graves jabs Reinikainen to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Graves misses with a left hand
and Reinikainen counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Reinikainen fails with an attempt to clinch.
Reinikainen avoids the body shot from Graves.
A little jabbing left from Reinikainen on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.#TD#
Graves closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Ground and pound from Graves.
Reinikainen is staying active underneath Graves, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Reinikainen is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Reinikainen works his way to full guard. Good work.
Reinikainen working a defensive guard but Graves passes into half guard. #T3#
Graves with a momentary lay and pray from half guard.
Reinikainen tries to roll over but Graves keeps him under control.
Reinikainen is trying to maintain the position but Graves is very close to passing his half guard.#SUB2#
Reinikainen looking for submissions off his back.
Reinikainen is refusing to be controlled, as Graves sits in half guard.
Graves wants to pass to mount but Reinikainen is defending the position.
Reinikainen trying to get back to full guard but Graves takes advantage of the position and moves to full mount!
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Reinikainen is looking to escape. #T4#
Reinikainen tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Graves with the ground and pound from mount.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Graves landing strikes from the mount.
Reinikainen is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
Reinikainen is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Reinikainen is working to get back to half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Graves shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Reinikainen defends it nicely.
Graves shoots in and drives through. Reinikainen sprawls well.
Graves tries to score a power double leg takedown but Reinikainen sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Graves somewhat.
Reinikainen looks like he wants to counter punch here.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves lands with a nice body punch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Reinikainen scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Graves misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too. #T1#
Graves fails with the takedown
and Reinikainen counters with a nice uppercut.
Graves looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Reinikainen is fending him off so far but Graves persists. Nope, Reinikainen circles away and we're back to standing.
It seemed like Reinikainen was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Graves fails to land the takedown.
A little jabbing left from Reinikainen on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Reinikainen.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Reinikainen moves away.
Reinikainen looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Reinikainen is using his reach advantage to land shots from outside his opponent's range.
Graves throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Reinikainen can do to turn this around?#TD#
Graves throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Reinikainen was covering up waiting for the punch and Graves finishes the takedown easily into guard.
Graves is working Reinikainen over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes. #T2#
Reinikainen not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Graves is stalling in the full guard. #SUB2#
Reinikainen looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Graves has picked Reinikainen up and slammed him! Reinikainen can't keep hold of the triangle and Graves manages to pass to side control!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves tries to move to mount but Reinikainen blocks the move with his legs.
Reinikainen tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Reinikainen is not in a great position here, taking some shots. #T3#
Reinikainen is looking for a sweep.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Reinikainen is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Reinikainen is trying to control Graves's posture but Graves avoids it.
Reinikainen is trying to work for a sweep but Graves has mounted him!
Graves with a couple of short strikes.
Reinikainen is working to get back to half guard.
Graves wants to control the pace but Reinikainen is squirming around nicely.
Reinikainen really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Reinikainen wants to control but Graves is having none of it.
Reinikainen 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.#T4#
Graves trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Graves tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
Reinikainen is looking to get to half guard.
Ernest Graves overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Reinikainen wants to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Graves fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves prevents Reinikainen from getting the reversal.
Graves tries to control but Reinikainen wriggling away.
Graves looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
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.#R3#
A shot to the body from Graves misses
letting Reinikainen counter with a right hand.
Graves shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves scores with a jab.
Graves looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Reinikainen is fending him off so far but Graves persists. Nope, Reinikainen circles away and we're back to standing.
Reinikainen only half commits to the counter leg kick.
Reinikainen misses with a series of wild punches.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Reinikainen moves away.
Reinikainen misses with a lunging right hand #TD#
and Graves counters with a nice double leg into side control. Reinikainen won't be happy with that.
Reinikainen is looking to regain half guard here but Graves keeps moving and retains side control.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Reinikainen is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Graves lands an elbow. #T1#
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Reinikainen is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Reinikainen is looking for a sweep.
Graves working away.
Reinikainen tries to slip a leg under to move to half guard but Graves presses down on the leg and jumps into full mount!
Reinikainen taking shots to the head.
Graves working the ground and pound effectively.
Graves sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.
Graves wants to control the pace but Reinikainen is squirming around nicely. #T2#
Reinikainen is wriggling around trying to escape.
Reinikainen tries to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Graves lands a heavy elbow.
Reinikainen is in all sorts of trouble here.
Graves controlling from mount.
Graves working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Graves controlling from mount.
A nice elbow there by Graves.#T3#
Graves lands a shot to the body, followed up by a shot to the exposed head of his trapped opponent.
Reinikainen working to try and regain half guard.
Reinikainen is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Graves putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Graves punishing his opponent with strikes.
Graves prevents Reinikainen from getting the reversal.
Graves takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Graves working the ground and pound effectively.
Graves takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.#T4#
Graves fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there! #ROC#Reinikainen is rocked!
Graves with the ground and pound from mount.
Reinikainen is still in real trouble! Can Graves finish him?
Reinikainen is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
Reinikainen is in a horrible position here. Graves smacks him with another shot as he tries to escape the position.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Reinikainen keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Reinikainen seems to have recovered his senses.
Graves lands a couple of good shots and Reinikainen has given up his back, trying to escape the position!
Reinikainen is really stuck here.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves clearly takes that round.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R4#
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Reinikainen was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Reinikainen throws a counter combo.
Reinikainen has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.#TD#
Graves feints and as Reinikainen raises his hands in defense, Graves changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Graves passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Reinikainen is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Reinikainen is looking to reverse the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Reinikainen is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Reinikainen tries to improve position but can't. #T1#
Graves trying to control the position but Reinikainen is working away.
Reinikainen is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Graves's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Graves is keen to just control but Reinikainen is a slippery customer.#SUB2#
Reinikainen looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB2#
Reinikainen looking to force a kimura from the bottom here. He's concentrating on that move too much though and Graves pushes past his half guard into mount!
Graves lands a heavy elbow.
Reinikainen is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
Reinikainen really trying hard to get back to half guard here. #T2#
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Reinikainen is looking to escape.
Graves fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
Graves controlling from mount.
Graves with a couple of short strikes.
Graves looking to control but Reinikainen is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Reinikainen is trying desperately to improve position.
BOOM! Graves connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Reinikainen is wriggling around trying to escape. #T3#
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves controlling from mount.
Graves landing shots from mount.
Reinikainen is trying desperately to improve position.
Graves controlling the position easily from mount.
Graves 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.
Graves with shots to the head and body - Reinikainen looks very uncomfortable down there.
Reinikainen tries to reverse the position but Graves maintains control.
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Reinikainen is looking to escape. #T4#
Reinikainen gets back to half guard.
Graves lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Graves wants to take a breather but Reinikainen is having none of it.
Graves controlling the pace.
Graves lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Graves lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Graves is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for Reinikainen!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves had his way with Artturi Reinikainen in that round.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!#R5##TD#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Graves.
Artturi Reinikainen has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Reinikainen tries to buck Graves off but Graves is having none of it.
Reinikainen is still trying to improve position.
Graves wants to control for a moment but Reinikainen uses the opportunity to move back to half guard. #SUB2#
Reinikainen is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Graves pulls his head out easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves lands with a punch from half guard.
Graves wants to take a breather but Reinikainen is having none of it. #T1#
Graves is taking a breather. Reinikainen 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.
Reinikainen trying to control but Graves postures up.
Graves not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Reinikainen is refusing to be controlled, as Graves sits in half guard.
Reinikainen tries to roll over but Graves keeps him under control.#T2#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Graves performing his best blanket impression for a moment. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Reinikainen displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Graves.
Graves is looking to wear down Reinikainen with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Reinikainen moves away.
It seemed like Reinikainen was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Reinikainen throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Graves slips under a jab from Reinikainen.
Graves throws a big counter combination but Reinikainen scrambles out of danger and avoids any damage.
Graves tries for a takedown but Reinikainen circles away easily
and Reinikainen counters with a straight right hand.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #T3#
Graves fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.#TD#
Graves feints and as Reinikainen raises his hands in defense, Graves changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Reinikainen looking to control. #SUB2#
Reinikainen looking for a guillotine here but Graves defends easily.
Graves throwing strikes but missing.
Reinikainen 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.#T4#
Graves passes Reinikainen's left leg - he's now in half guard. #SUB2#
Reinikainen looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Graves has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Reinikainen takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Graves controlling the position easily from mount.
Ernest Graves is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Reinikainen is flailing around like a fish out of water, trying to land strikes.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Yukihiro Shimada scores the fight 50:45
Judge Ren Mimura scores the fight 50:45
Judge Tatsuya Matsuyama scores the fight 50:45

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

Ernest Graves retains his lightweight title!
Ernest Graves seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: C121: Puno vs. Brown     
Date:   Aug 20, 2022
#R1#
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
Graves misses with a takedown attempt - Al Balushi sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Al Balushi throws a body kick but he was well out of range there. #TD2#
Graves closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Al Balushi quickly recovers to half guard.
Graves throws a big elbow that misses, also allowing Al Balushi to regain full guard.
Al Balushi looking to hit a scissor sweep but Graves is one step ahead there.
Graves postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Al Balushi avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Al Balushi is retaining full guard.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Al Balushi is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T1#
Graves stopping the sweep attempt from Al Balushi.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Graves is looking to advance position but Al Balushi has hit a scissor sweep - now he's on top in mount!#REVR#
Graves can't escape the position.
Graves keeps trying to improve his position.
Graves is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.#T2#
Al Balushi tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
Graves tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Graves 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.
Graves moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Graves looking to hit a scissor sweep but Al Balushi is one step ahead there.
Al Balushi has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.#SUB2#
Graves is looking for a triangle but Al Balushi pushes his legs off easily. #T3##SUB2#
Graves is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Al Balushi is aware though and is defending well.
Graves wants to sweep but no luck.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Graves is looking for a triangle but Al Balushi pushes his legs off easily.
Graves wants to improve his position but instead Al Balushi has moved into half guard. #T4#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Graves is looking for a sweep. Al Balushi is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Al Balushi takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.
Graves makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Graves.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Graves is on top in guard. #REVB#
Graves looking to pass the guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Al Balushi controlling the position.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Al Balushi displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Graves throws out the jab.
Al Balushi thows a leg kick but Graves checks it #TD2#
and Graves counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Graves.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Al Balushi wants to sweep here but Graves controlling him for the moment.
Graves throws a big right hand that misses.
Graves wants to control from the top but Al Balushi keeps moving.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Al Balushi is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves postures up.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters, thinking about a standup.#T1#
Graves throws a big elbow that misses.
Graves lands a couple of digs.
Al Balushi working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Graves.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Graves trying to control but Al Balushi is working from the bottom.
Graves throwing strikes from guard but Al Balushi blocks nicely.
Graves wants to control from the top but Al Balushi keeps moving.
Graves throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Al Balushi works some decent striking defense from the bottom. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Graves trying to move into half guard but instead Al Balushi has managed to sweep!#REVR#
Graves is looking to sweep but instead, Al Balushi has passed into half guard.
Graves manages to get to full guard.
Graves working a defensive guard here.
Graves lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Graves cracks Al Balushi with a solid left hand.
Graves trying to control but Al Balushi is working from the bottom. #T3#
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Graves is looking to work some ground and pound but Al Balushi has wrist control.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Al Balushi is keeping the position.
Graves throws a strike but Al Balushi rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVR#
Al Balushi preventing the sweep.
Graves 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#
Graves stalling away here and it's allowed Al Balushi to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
Graves with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.#T4#
Graves wants to pass the guard but Al Balushi is keeping the position.
Ernest Graves has got the better of the ground game so far.
Graves is pushing down on Al Balushi's leg trying to pass to half guard. Al Balushi is fighting to maintain full guard but Graves has managed to sneak the leg through.
Graves content to control rather than advance.
Graves misses with a head shot. Al Balushi uses the momentum to regain guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Graves wants to control from the top but Al Balushi keeps moving.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R3#
Graves blocks a low kick nicely.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Al Balushi looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Al Balushi changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Al Balushi misses with a left hand
and Graves counters with a lovely straight right hand!
A solid leg kick lands there for Al Balushi.
Al Balushi blocks a jab.
Graves looks to throw the jab but Al Balushi is out of range.
It looked like Al Balushi wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Graves shoots in for a double leg but Al Balushi sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Al Balushi scores with a leg kick.
Graves lands the left hand.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Al Balushi.
Graves has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#T1#
Graves misses with a few strikes there.
Graves will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Al Balushi misses with a low kick as Graves jumps back.
Al Balushi throws the left hand but Graves avoids the punch easily.
Graves shoots for a double leg takedown but Al Balushi sprawls well. He's pushed Graves's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Graves takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Al Balushi moves away.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Al Balushi misses with a leg kick.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Al Balushi throws out the jab. #T2#
Al Balushi uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Graves.
Graves scores with a jab to the body.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Al Balushi.
Graves lands a glancing blow to the side of Al Balushi's head.
Al Balushi tries to work over Graves's front leg with a kick but Graves checks it.
Graves looks to throw the jab but Al Balushi is out of range.
Al Balushi misses with a body kick.
Al Balushi throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves swings for the body but Al Balushi moves out of range.
Al Balushi fires out a quick counter leg kick but Graves just manages to avoid it.
Graves scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Zaid Al Balushi is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Al Balushi moves away.
Graves lunges at Al Balushi with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Al Balushi's hand. #T3#
Al Balushi goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
A combination from Graves does no damage.
A quick step to the side and Al Balushi tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves avoids the body shot from Al Balushi.
Graves looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Al Balushi is fending him off so far but Graves persists. Nope, Al Balushi circles away and we're back to standing.
Zaid Al Balushi has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Graves throws a looping overhand right but Al Balushi ducks down to avoid it.
Al Balushi throws a body kick that digs right into the meat.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Al Balushi does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Al Balushi counters with a stiff right hand.
Al Balushi moves away from the strike by Graves.
Graves defending well as Al Balushi loads up on a big left hand.
Graves misses with a wild body shot. #T4#
Graves pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Graves scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
A shot to the body from Graves misses
and Al Balushi counters with a nice kick to the body.
Al Balushi on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Al Balushi counters with a body kick.
Graves throws a hook but Al Balushi blocks it.
Al Balushi uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Al Balushi slips under a jab from Graves.
A low kick lands for Al Balushi.
Ernest Graves seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Graves swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Graves takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close third round but Ernest Graves just about did enough to take it.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R4#
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Al Balushi bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Al Balushi thumps Graves with a low kick.
Graves darts in looking for a takedown but Al Balushi gets double underhooks and turns Graves into the cage.
Al Balushi quickly followed up with a counter body kick but doesn't connect.
Graves keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Al Balushi uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Graves.
Graves throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Al Balushi counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Graves throws a big shot that misses.
Graves connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Al Balushi momentarily.
Al Balushi throws a leg kick which misses Graves's front leg but catches the back leg as Graves tries to avoid it. #T1#
Al Balushi uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Graves.
A punch lands to the side of Al Balushi 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Graves shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Al Balushi but Al Balushi pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Al Balushi throws a body kick that misses.
Graves throws a hook but Al Balushi avoids it easily.
An attempted straight right counter from Al Balushi misses the target.
Al Balushi throws a big shot that misses.
Graves changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Graves connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Al Balushi momentarily.
Al Balushi takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Al Balushi appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
Al Balushi throws a leg kick but Graves checks it.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Al Balushi. #T2#
Al Balushi keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Graves.
Graves misses with a shot to the body
and Al Balushi connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Al Balushi tries to move into range but Graves moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Al Balushi jabs Graves to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Graves shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Zaid Al Balushi has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Graves misses with an uppercut. Al Balushi saw that one coming.
A little feinted left hand from Al Balushi on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves connects with a crisp jab.
Graves lands a slapping body shot.
Al Balushi jabbing away but nothing is landing.
As Al Balushi backs off Graves throws a huge counter combo but Al Balushi manages to avoid it all.
Graves takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Al Balushi swings and misses with a hook to the body. #T3#
Al Balushi moves out of range as Graves strikes.
Al Balushi looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
The fighters circle momentarily. Graves darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Al Balushi throws a leg kick which misses Graves's front leg but catches the back leg as Graves tries to avoid it.
Graves digs a good hook to Al Balushi's body.
That's a knee to de groin and it's over and out! Graves crumples to the ground after an illegal strike from Al Balushi - the referee stops the clock and Graves gets 5 minutes to recover from that one. "I'm sorry" says Al Balushi. Graves manages to get back to his feet and the fight resumes.
Graves tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Al Balushi defends well and Graves ends up having to push Al Balushi into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Al Balushi tries to score with a low kick but Graves moves his leg out of the way.
Al Balushi misses with a low kick.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Graves, as that shot connected.
Al Balushi connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.#TD2#
Al Balushi gets caught napping as Graves dives in and scores a takedown. Al Balushi manages to retain guard.#T4#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Al Balushi working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Graves.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Al Balushi is keeping the position for now.
Graves connects with a couple of short punches.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Al Balushi is keeping the position.
Al Balushi preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that fourth round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action. This is the final round!#R5#
Al Balushi throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Al Balushi bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Al Balushi misses with the combination.
Al Balushi scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Graves swings widly with a right hand
and Al Balushi counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Graves fails with the takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Al Balushi sprawls well. Al Balushi wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Graves gets slowly back to his feet.#T1#
Al Balushi throws a low kick but it's checked well by Graves.
Al Balushi tries to land a leg kick but Graves saw it coming and moves away.
Graves pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Al Balushi misses with a looping right.
Graves throws a series of punches but Al Balushi moves out of range.
Al Balushi throws a body kick despite being completely out of range
and Graves counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Al Balushi throws a low kick but Graves avoids it.
Graves misses with a jab to the body
and Al Balushi cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Graves misses with a straight right.
Nice defenses there by Al Balushi.
As Graves backs away, Al Balushi returns fire with a leg kick that just misses.
Graves waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Al Balushi.
A quick step to the side and Al Balushi tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Zaid Al Balushi has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Graves misses with an uppercut.
Graves scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Graves swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
letting Al Balushi counter with a right hand.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Al Balushi does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Al Balushi looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Al Balushi lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Al Balushi throws a right hand that Graves ducks under and follows up with a left that Graves also avoids with ease.
Al Balushi walks into a left hand.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Al Balushi thumps Graves with a low kick.
Al Balushi 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.
A telegraphed right hand from Graves misses the target. #T3#
Al Balushi waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
Graves throws an off balance right hand
and Al Balushi counters with a nice leg kick.
Al Balushi tests Graves's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Graves's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.
Al Balushi waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
Al Balushi lands a nice leg kick that just misses Graves's sensitive parts.
Graves scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Al Balushi thuds his right hand into Graves's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Graves swings for the body but Al Balushi moves out of range.
A jab from Graves finds it's way through Al Balushi's defenses.
Graves will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Zaid Al Balushi has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Graves misses with a right hand
enabling Al Balushi to counter with a crisp jab. #T4#
Al Balushi misses with a leg kick.
Graves will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Graves fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Al Balushi misses with a straight right.
Graves throws out a counter right but Al Balushi avoids it with no problem.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves throws a body punch but Al Balushi moves out of range.
A little feinted left hand from Al Balushi on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Graves dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Al Balushi looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Graves misses with a looping right.
Graves takes one to the chin there.
Graves shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Al Balushi as he jumps to the side.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Shigeki Fujiwara scores the fight 46:49
Judge Yukihiro Shimada scores the fight 46:49
Judge Yasuomi Hirokawa scores the fight 46:49

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

Ernest Graves is the new lightweight champion!
A very excited looking Ernest Graves 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.

 

Event: C118: Olsen vs. Puno     
Date:   Aug 06, 2022
#R1#
Kilgore throws a looping overhand right but Graves ducks down to avoid it.
Graves lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Graves stuns Kilgore with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
The fighters circling - Kilgore throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Kilgore throws a looping overhand right but Graves ducks down to avoid it.
Graves swings for the body but Kilgore moves out of range.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Kilgore throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
Graves walks into a left hand.
Graves has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Tōshi in the buildup to the fight.
Graves digs a good body shot into Kilgore's ribs.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kilgore misses with an uppercut #TD#
and Graves counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Graves 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.
Kilgore looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Kilgore keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully. #T1#
Graves passes Kilgore's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Graves has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Kilgore wants to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Graves controlling from the full mount.
Kilgore takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
Graves throws a wild left hand from mount and Kilgore manages to wriggle his way back to half guard.
Kilgore is refusing to be controlled, as Graves sits in half guard. #T2#
Graves thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Graves lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Graves not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Graves misses with a head shot. Kilgore uses the momentum to regain guard.
Graves works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Graves is looking for the mount but instead finds himself back in full guard. #T3#
Graves loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Graves is pushing down on Kilgore's leg trying to pass to half guard. Kilgore is fighting to maintain full guard but Graves has managed to sneak the leg through.
Graves sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Kilgore defending well though.
Graves is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Kilgore wants to get back to full guard.
Graves tries to pass the half guard into mount. Kilgore knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Graves not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Graves wants to control but Kilgore is keeping him busy.
Graves throwing shots but Kilgore is blocking nicely. #T4#
Graves working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but Kilgore is holding on for dear life with his legs. #SUB#
Kilgore is defending against the submission attempts here by Graves.
Graves has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Graves sends his fist crashing into the mat - the crowd let out a collective ooooooh. Let's hope he's not broken it!
Kilgore manages to work a leg through to get back to half guard here. Good work there by Kilgore, under a barage of strikes from Graves.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R2##TD#
Kilgore gets caught flat footed, as Graves shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Graves 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.
Graves advances to half guard.
Graves is keen to just control but Kilgore is a slippery customer.
Graves is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Kilgore is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.
Graves is pressing down on Kilgore's thigh, looking to free his foot. Kilgore is holding on for now.
Graves throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but Kilgore is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Graves wants to control but Kilgore is keeping him busy. #T1#
Kilgore won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Graves not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Graves throws a strike but Kilgore avoids it easily and moves to full guard.
Graves pushes down on Kilgore's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Graves throwing shots but Kilgore is blocking nicely.
Kilgore won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Kilgore manages to get to full guard. #T2#
Graves postures up and lands a big shot to Kilgore's brow.
Graves preventing the sweep.
Graves distracts Kilgore with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Kilgore swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves won't allow Kilgore to sweep him here. #T3#
Graves landing with the ground and pound.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Kilgore is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Kilgore works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Kilgore trying to keep a closed guard but Graves is proving a slippery customer.
Graves throws a big elbow that misses.
Kilgore keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves throws a strike but Kilgore rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVB#
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves is looking to sweep but instead, Kilgore has passed into half guard. #T4#
Graves is looking to get back to full guard here but Kilgore has managed to pass to side control instead.
Graves sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Graves is looking to improve his position.
Kilgore is thwarting Graves's attempts to control the position.
Graves wants to get back to full guard.
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Kilgore can do to turn this around?
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Graves moves into full guard.
Graves manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Kilgore manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves 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#
Graves avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Graves attempts a counter takedown but Kilgore avoids it well and moves away.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Kilgore was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Kilgore takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK. #TD#
Graves gets the takedown into side control.
Kilgore struggling a bit here.
Kilgore is not content to let Graves control the position.
Graves working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kilgore takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.
Graves throws a knee to the body but it doesn't do much damage.
Graves working the ground and pound but Kilgore is defending the strikes. #T1#
Graves passes to full mount! That's big trouble for Kilgore!
Graves lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Graves thuds his fist into the canvas! Oooouch!
Poor strikes thrown by Graves there. More accuracy and less frantic strikes would help!
Graves lands a nice shot to the head. #CUT#It looks like Tacitus Kilgore has been cut.
Graves thuds his fist into the canvas! Oooouch!
Kilgore avoids a series of strikes thrown by Graves.
Graves throwing shots from mount but they're not landing.
Graves misses with a head shot.#T2#
Graves thowing shots but they're missing.
Graves dominating with strikes here.
Graves lands with some vicious ground and pound - can Kilgore hang on?
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves misses with a series of strikes from mount. He'll no doubt be working on his ground and pound when he gets back to the gym.
Graves thowing shots but they're missing.
Graves landing shots from mount.
Kilgore is in a horrible position here, under a barrage of strikes, he's managing to avoid any damage.
Graves throwing strikes but Kilgore uses the opportunity to regain half guard.
Kilgore won't allow Graves to pass to mount. #T3#
Graves passes to full mount!
Graves looking to land elbow strikes but Kilgore uses the position to regain half guard.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Kilgore keeps working.
Graves not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Ernest Graves overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Graves is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
Graves postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Kilgore looks a forlorn figure. #CUT#That has opened up Tacitus Kilgore's cut even more.
Graves throws an elbow from mount that misses. Lucky escape for Kilgore because Graves loaded up on that one.
Tacitus Kilgore has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T4#
Graves thuds his fist into the canvas! Oooouch!
Graves unloading with bombs!
Graves landing strikes from the mount.
Kilgore holding onto his opponent's waist for dear life, as Graves tries to land some strikes to get him to release his grip.
Graves putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!#CUT#The cut above Tacitus Kilgore's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves dominating with strikes here.#CUT#Tacitus Kilgore's cut is absolute horrible now. This looks like something out of a horror film with blood covering both fighters.

The referee calls the doctor in to look at Tacitus Kilgore's cut. Oh no, the doctor has called an end to the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:58 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Ernest Graves!
An out of breath Ernest Graves thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: C115: Murhaa vs. Owens     
Date:   Jul 23, 2022
#R1#
Graves misses with a hook.
Joteel connects with a body shot.
Joteel keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Graves.
A little feinted left hand from Joteel on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
A telegraphed right hand from Joteel misses the target.
Graves tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Joteel defends well and Graves ends up having to push Joteel into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Graves lands a nice shot to the body.
Joteel lands with a thumping leg kick.
Graves lands a nice hook to Joteel's body. Joteel takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Graves fails to land the takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Joteel looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Joteel is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight. #T1#
Joteel just misses with a punch to the body.
Joteel stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Joteel wants it to stay on the feet.
Jacque Joteel has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Graves throws a right hand that Joteel ducks under and follows up with a left that Joteel also avoids with ease.
An attempted straight right counter from Joteel misses the target.
Graves avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Graves swings for the body but Joteel moves out of range.
Joteel misses with a hook
and Graves counters with a nice uppercut.
Graves misses with a jab, cross combination.
Graves misses with a hook to the body
and Joteel counters with a leg kick.
Joteel lands a right hook to the body.
Joteel takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Joteel has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Chakuriki LA Gym in the buildup to the fight.
Joteel takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Joteel throws a leg kick #TD2#
and Graves counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Joteel! #T2#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Joteel is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Graves working away.
Graves wants to control but Joteel is keeping him busy.
Joteel is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Joteel can't do much from the bottom here.
Graves passes to full mount! That's big trouble for Joteel! #T3#
Graves thuds his fist into the canvas! Oooouch!
Joteel working to try and regain half guard.
Graves fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
Joteel is working to get back to half guard.
Graves has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Graves unloading with bombs!
Graves sends his fist crashing into the mat - the crowd let out a collective ooooooh. Let's hope he's not broken it!
Joteel blocking the ground and pound.
The crowd growing excited in anticipation of a finish here! Right on cue, Graves cracks his opponent with a massive right hand that draws loud cheers!
Graves is in the full mount, landing strikes.
The referee warns Joteel that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head. #ROC2#Joteel is rocked!#T4#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves postures up and connects with a big shot that has rocked Joteel badly. He's trying desperately to grab hold of Graves around the waist but Graves pushes him off and unloads with more strikes, forcing the referee to jump in and save him! Graves is the winner by TKO! Graves jumps onto the cage and shouts into the camera. "We did it momma!"

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:21 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
Our winner, Ernest Graves, 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: C111: Murhaa vs. Wojcik     
Date:   Jul 09, 2022
#R1#
Graves takes a swing at Blyad's ribcage but misses. #TD#
Graves bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.#SUB#
Graves working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Blyad is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Blyad tries to bench press Graves off him but Graves keeps the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Blyad is still trying to improve position.
Graves slows the pace down.
Blyad is looking for a sweep.#T1#
Blyad taking a bit of punishment here - Graves scoring with strikes.
Graves throws an elbow but Blyad slips to the side and avoids it well.#SUB#
Graves looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Blyad can't do much from the bottom here.
Blyad tries to improve position but can't.
Graves trying to control the action but Blyad is working from the bottom.
Blyad is looking to regain half guard here but Graves keeps moving and retains side control.
Graves scoring with punches from side control. #T2#
Blyad is looking to regain half guard here but Graves keeps moving and retains side control. #SUB#
Graves thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Blyad keeps working.
Blyad gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there!
Graves landing strikes, looking to finish! #T3#
Graves dominating with strikes here.
Blyad wants to control but Graves is having none of it.
Graves lands a nice shot to the head.
Graves in mount throwing good strikes here, bouncing his opponent's head off the canvas.
Graves looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
Blyad is working to get back to half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves landing shots from mount.
Blyad is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
We've been hearing that Graves has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Graves connects with a couple of good shots from mount. #ROC#Blyad is rocked!#T4#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Oooooh, big shot lands for Graves! Blyad is hurt baaadly! Graves is firing away with more strikes - Blyad is covering up... the ref is warning him to do something. He's just covering up though still and the ref has to step in to end the fight! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:28 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
After winning the bout, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: C105: Kahn vs. Stalinovich     
Date:   Jun 19, 2022
#R1#
Ji Woo connects with a looping right hand.
Ji Woo pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Ji Woo swings widly with a right hand
and Graves counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Graves scores with a body shot.
Graves slips under a jab.#CL#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Graves is trying to drag Ji Woo to the mat but Ji Woo just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Ji Woo gets through Graves's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Ji Woo has a couple of punches blocked by Graves.
Ji Woo lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Ji Woo lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Graves is looking to control Ji Woo's arms but Ji Woo gets an underhook and turns him. Now Graves has his back to the cage.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Ji Woo. #TD2#
Graves gets a nice trip takedown into half guard.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ji Woo moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Graves stopping the sweep attempt from Ji Woo.#T1#
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Ji Woo is keeping the position for now.
Ji Woo keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Graves trying to control but Ji Woo is working from the bottom.
Ji Woo is adopting a defensive guard.
Ji Woo is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Graves slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.#T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Graves lands a few punches from side control.
Graves throwing shots but missing, from side control.
Ji Woo prevents Graves from moving into mount.
Ji Woo is trying to improve his position.
Graves working the body and head with strikes.
Graves lands a nice forearm strike.
Ji Woo is looking for a sweep.
Graves lands a few punches from side control.
Graves scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Ji Woo to see if he's OK.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Graves working his ground and pound in the gym. So far it seems to be working well.
Graves grinds an elbow into Ji Woo's temple.
Ji Woo is looking for a sweep.
Graves is trying to move to mount but Ji Woo reverses beautifully and ends up in Graves's guard. #T3##SUB2#
Graves is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Ji Woo sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Graves's guard.
Graves manages to get to full guard.
Graves wants to sweep here but Ji Woo controlling him for the moment.
Ji Woo wants to control from the top but Graves keeps moving.
Ji Woo is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long. #T4#
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.
Ji Woo trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Ji Woo has passed into side control.
Graves is trying to get back to half guard.
Graves is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Ji Woo off and has taken his back!
Graves has his opponent trapped and is landing shots. Not a good position for Ji Woo.
Ji Woo can't escape the position.
Graves is punishing Ji Woo with some ground and pound.
Graves scores with strikes from the back.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Ji Woo looking to land some kicks to the body here.
A shot to the body from Graves misses
and Ji Woo counters with a lovely straight right hand!#CUT#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Ji Woo throws out a loose jab but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Ji Woo digs a good body shot into Graves's ribs.
Graves punishes Ji Woo's body with a nice straight punch.
Graves stuns Ji Woo with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Ji Woo lands a kick to the ribs of his opponent. Nice work there - in and out in a flash.
Ji Woo moves out of range of the strikes.#CL#
Ji Woo closes the distance and clinches.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves is working for takedown but Ji Woo is calmly controlling the position for now.
Ji Woo has a couple of punches blocked by Graves.
A head punch on the inside from Graves fails to land.
Graves prevents a body shot from Ji Woo.
Graves tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
I was talking to Ji Woo's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.#BC2#
Graves pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.#TD2#
Graves throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Ji Woo tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Graves is in Ji Woo's guard.#T1#
Graves wants to control from the top but Ji Woo keeps moving.
Ji Woo 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.
Ji Woo trying to keep a closed guard but Graves is proving a slippery customer.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Ji Woo is keeping the position for now.
Graves has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Ji Woo's guard.
Graves trying to mount his opponent but Ji Woo defends it.
Ji Woo is looking for a sweep. Graves is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Graves takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.#T2#
Ji Woo gets back to full guard.
Ji Woo controls Graves momentarily but Graves frees himself.
Ernest Graves has got the better of the ground game so far.#SUB#
Ji Woo throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Ji Woo wants to sweep here but Graves controlling him for the moment.
Graves looking to pass the guard. #SUB#
Ji Woo isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Graves stacks Ji Woo on his neck as he steps over and passes to the side. He's now in a much more dominant position where he can look to do some serious damage. Nice move by Graves!
Ji Woo is not content to let Graves control the position. #T3#
Ji Woo is looking for a sweep.
Graves throwing shots but missing, from side control.
Ji Woo wants to control but Graves postures up.
Graves works a knee to the body and follows up with a nice elbow to the head.
Graves lands an elbow.
Ji Woo tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Graves tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
Graves trying to control the action but Ji Woo is working from the bottom. #T4#
Ji Woo tries to improve position but can't.
Graves tries to advance to mount but Ji Woo denies him.
Ji Woo is looking for a sweep.
Graves tries to advance to mount but Ji Woo denies him.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Ji Woo is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves cracks Ji Woo with a big elbow.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3##CL#
Ji Woo rushes Graves and presses him up against the cage.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Ji Woo.
Graves tries for a takedown but Ji Woo manages to get underhooks.
Graves working aggressively here. #TD2#
Graves has managed to pull guard. Let's see whether he can work an aggressive guard. It will also be interesting to see what tactics Ji Woo uses from the top position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Ji Woo wants to control from the top but Graves keeps moving.
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Graves keeping moving, preventing Ji Woo from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves wants to sweep but no luck.
Graves has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Ji Woo has passed into side control. #T1#
Graves is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.
Ji Woo moves into full mount! Graves won't be happy about that!
Graves is writhing around trying to get back to his feet. #SUB#
Graves tries to improve his position but Ji Woo has taken his back! Ji Woo has a choke - it's sunk in pretty tight... Will Graves tap? No... maybe... yes! He's tapped! Ji Woo pushes Graves away and gets up to celebrate with his corner!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:43 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Bong Ji Woo!
Bong Ji Woo seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: Combate 100: Los Angeles     
Date:   May 28, 2022
#R1#
Graves changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Joteel tries to avoid it but Graves manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Joteel to the ground. Joteel escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Joteel feinted there with a counter leg kick.
Graves misses with a looping right.
Joteel throws a low kick but Graves avoids it.
A shot to the liver by Graves. Beautiful body shot.
Joteel keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Graves.
Graves connects with a looping right hand.
Joteel pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves slips a straight right by Joteel.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves throws a hook but Joteel avoids it easily.
Joteel fires out a quick counter leg kick but Graves just manages to avoid it.
The crowd cheers as Joteel lands an impressive looking overhand right. Graves doesn't seem phased though.
Joteel moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Graves lands a jab to the nose.#T1#
Graves lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Graves lands with an uppercut that bounces Joteel off the cage and back into range.
Joteel misses with a low kick.
Graves scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
The fight stays on the outside here - Graves looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Graves throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Joteel's waist but Joteel gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Graves off to one side.
It looked like Joteel wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Graves connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Graves with a jab.
Graves avoids the body shot from Joteel.
Joteel has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Chakuriki LA Gym in the buildup to the fight.#T2#
A cross from Graves lands.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Joteel takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Joteel misses with the body kick
enabling Graves to counter with a crisp jab.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Graves 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.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Graves clobbers Joteel with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Graves scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Graves's corner calls for a 1-2. Graves obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range. #CL2#
Graves clinches. #T3#
Joteel tries a body shot but Graves blocks it.
Joteel works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Joteel tries to throw a body punch but Graves avoids it by throwing Joteel back against the cage.
Graves misses with a punch on the inside.
Joteel lands a body punch.
A short body shot lands from Joteel as the two fighters clinch.
Graves jumps guard but Joteel stands there with Graves around his waist. Graves gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Jacque Joteel has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
A right hook to the body lands for Joteel.
A head punch on the inside from Graves fails to land.
Joteel tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Joteel.
A nice left hand lands by Joteel.
Graves fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
A right hook to the body lands for Joteel.
Joteel doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Joteel tries a body shot but Graves blocks it.
Joteel cracks Graves with a nice body shot.
A nice right hand lands inside from Joteel.
Graves has a couple of punches blocked by Joteel. #T4#
Joteel blocking some punches.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Graves.
Joteel lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Graves or not.
Joteel struggles to land a body shot inside as Graves controls his hands.
A shot in the inside from Joteel.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Joteel.
Graves misses with a short punch on the inside.
Joteel lands a knee to the head there! That was nasty! #CUT#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.#TD2#
Graves has managed to pull guard. Let's see whether he can work an aggressive guard. It will also be interesting to see what tactics Joteel uses from the top position.
Joteel sitting in guard here, content to control.
Joteel has controlled the position for a good 20 seconds, which will no doubt be starting to frustrate his opponent.
Joteel's ground tactics aren't going to win him many fans. Let's hope he's got fireworks for us if he gets back to his feet because he's not doing much on the ground.
Graves wants to hit a sweep here but Joteel passes into full mount! Oh no, disaster for Graves there!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
That's time! Joteel's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Joteel takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Graves darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Graves rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Joteel counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Joteel walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Joteel displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Graves.
Joteel tried to counter with a leg kick but Graves avoided it.#TD2#
Graves closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Joteel's guard.#T1#
Graves connects with a couple of short punches.
Joteel keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Joteel looking for a sweep. Not yet Joteel, not yet.
Graves prevents Joteel from getting back to his feet.
Graves preventing the sweep.
Graves looking to sit in guard and control but Joteel gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR#
Graves 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.
Joteel content to stall in guard here.
Joteel stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.#T2#
Joteel stays in close to Graves's body and controls the position. #SU#
Joteel gets to his feet - Graves follows without any prompting.
Graves scores with a sloppy right hand. Joteel should have avoided that one.
Graves dives in and grabs Joteel's left leg, looking for a takedown. Joteel pushes down on Graves's head and hops out.
Ernest Graves seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Joteel misses with a hook. Graves ducked under it nicely.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
An attempted straight right counter from Joteel misses the target.
Graves thows a left - swing and a miss!
Joteel on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot. #T3#
Graves uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Joteel.
Joteel swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Joteel takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
A low kick from Joteel misses
and Graves cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Joteel tests Graves's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Graves shoots in but no luck this time.
A little feinted left hand from Joteel on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Jacque Joteel has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Graves throws a jab when Joteel was well out of range.
A little feinted left hand from Joteel on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Graves connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Joteel's hands.
Graves misses with a jab, cross combination.
A counter left hand to the body from Joteel misses its target.
Jacque Joteel is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Graves shoots for a takedown but Joteel saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Joteel half committed to a counter leg kick.
Graves closes the distance and clinches up with Joteel, looking for a takedown. Graves pushes Joteel against the cage but Joteel circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Joteel is looking to counter with a shot to the body.#T4#
Graves misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Graves throws a body punch but Joteel moves out of range.
Joteel appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
A bone on bone clash there as Graves blocks the leg kick.
Graves closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so. #ROC#Graves is rocked!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
A shot to the body from Joteel misses
enabling Graves to counter with a crisp jab.
The fighters circling - Graves throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
A shot to the body from Graves misses
and Joteel counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Graves is still on wobbly legs! Can Joteel finish him?
Joteel misses with the combination.
Nice straight punches there by Graves. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Graves.
Joteel dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Ernest Graves will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R3#
Graves paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Graves seems to have recovered his senses.#TD2#
Graves looking to score a takedown here. Joteel is defending well but Graves drives through and ends up in Joteel's guard.
Joteel pulls Graves in close to prevent any damage.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Joteel is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Joteel is retaining full guard.
Graves is still trying to improve position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Joteel keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully. #T1#
Graves is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
Joteel looking for a sweep. Not yet Joteel, not yet.
Joteel keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Graves doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Joteel connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Graves fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Joteel avoids it really well and circles away.
Graves checks a leg kick nicely.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Graves.
Jacque Joteel has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.#T2#
Graves throws a sloppy body shot #CL#
and Joteel moves into the clinch.
Joteel tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Graves's elbow.
Joteel tries to throw a body punch but Graves avoids it by throwing Joteel back against the cage.
Joteel tries a body shot but Graves blocks it.
Joteel struggles to land a body shot inside as Graves controls his hands.
A shot in the inside from Joteel.
Graves throws a punch but it's blocked by Joteel.
Graves tries to stall but Joteel uses the opportunity to gain a better position.
Joteel tries to throw a body punch but Graves avoids it by throwing Joteel back against the cage.
Joteel landing knees to the body. They look like they could hurt.
Graves blocks a body shot from Joteel.
Joteel fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Joteel tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Joteel misses with the head strike.
Joteel blocks a punch to the side of the head.
A short left from Joteel. #T3#
Joteel lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Still in the clinch, Graves scores with a nice short uppercut.
Graves fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
A short right from Joteel.
Graves working aggressively here.
Graves misses with the head strike.
Joteel lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Graves misses with the head strike.
A shot in the inside from Joteel.
Joteel lands a left hand that snaps the head of Graves backwards.
Graves wants to stall.
A short uppercut from Graves.
Joteel working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Joteel lands a big right hand that drops Graves! The killer instinct kicks in and Joteel finishes his opponent with a series of strikes from mount. A dominating finish by Joteel!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:53 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Jacque Joteel!
Jacque Joteel retains his lightweight title!
Our winner, Jacque Joteel, 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: C98: Nagasaki vs. Kenobi 4     
Date:   May 14, 2022
#R1#
Graves cracks Jackson with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
We've been told by Jackson's head coaches at LVPED that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Graves looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Jackson defending well as Graves loads up on a big left hand.
Graves scores with a nice head shot.
A swing and a miss from Graves.
Graves 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.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves stuns Jackson with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Jackson on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Graves slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Graves slips under a jab.
Graves throws out a counter right but Jackson avoids it with no problem.
Jackson throws a body punch but Graves moves out of range.
Graves avoids a punch combination nicely.
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!
Graves connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Graves slips a jab from Jackson.#T1#
Jackson pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Graves staying out of range there.
Graves swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Nice uppercut there from Graves.
Graves misses with a looping right.
Jackson is looking to chop away at Graves's legs.
Graves might want to mix his strikes up a bit more. He's just going for head shots at the moment and that can become a bit predictable.
Jackson smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.#TD2#
Graves shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Jackson is trying to defend but Graves finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Graves trying to control from half guard but Jackson is working away.
Graves not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Graves missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Graves sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Jackson defending well though. #T2#
Graves throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Graves lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Jackson's head.
Jackson knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Graves on the ground.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Jackson is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Jackson is looking to improve his position.
Jackson won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Jackson wants to control but Graves is keeping busy.
Graves missing with some ground and pound from the half guard. #T3#
Jackson is not content to let Graves control the position.
Graves missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Graves thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Jackson's head.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but Jackson is holding on for dear life with his legs.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Jackson is looking to improve his position.
Jackson won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Graves wants to control but Jackson is keeping him busy.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Graves tries to pass the half guard into mount. Jackson knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Jackson taking some punishment here, with Graves in his half guard.
Graves thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Jackson's head.
Graves thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Jackson's head. #SUB2#
Graves is trying to work for a kimura but Jackson is defending well.
Graves is trying to control the action in half guard but Jackson is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Graves is looking to advance position but Jackson won't allow it.
Jackson wants to improve his position but Graves is controlling well.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves 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#
Jackson throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Jackson doesn't manage to clinch there - Graves circles away.
Jackson misses with a body shot.
Graves slips a jab from Jackson.
Jackson throws a leg kick which misses Graves's front leg but catches the back leg as Graves tries to avoid it.
Jackson swings widly with a right hand
and Graves counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Graves moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Graves throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Jackson on the side of the head.
Jackson throws a looping overhand right but Graves ducks down to avoid it.
Jackson rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Graves counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jackson dodges the punch combination from Graves.
Jackson takes one to the chin there.#T1#
Graves checks the leg kick nicely there.
Graves goes for a double leg but Jackson avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Jackson continues to drive forward.#CL#
Graves gets tackled into the cage by Jackson. Jackson maintains the clinch.
Graves gets through Jackson's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Jackson lands a body shot in the clinch.
Graves swings wildly with an uppercut but Jackson uses good head movement to avoid it.
Jackson fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Jackson. #TD2#
Graves decides to pull guard. #SUB2#
Graves is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Graves lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Jackson is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves looking to pass the guard. #T2#
Graves postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Jackson is keeping the position.
Jackson keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Jackson's head.
Graves works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves wants to control but Jackson is keeping him busy.
Graves passes to full mount!
Graves dominating with strikes here.#T3#
A nice elbow there by Graves.
Graves unloading with bombs!
Graves has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Jackson?
Graves lands a big shot there that rocks Jackson but he's holding on and managing to survive for now.
Graves lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.
Graves lands a nice shot to the head.
Graves lands a big shot there that rocks Jackson but he's holding on and managing to survive for now.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
Graves looking to control but Jackson is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Graves cracks Jackson with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena. #ROC2#Jackson is rocked!#T4#
Graves lands a heavy elbow.
The crowd growing excited in anticipation of a finish here! Right on cue, Graves cracks his opponent with a massive right hand that draws loud cheers!
Oh Jackson is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Graves lands with some strikes.
Graves has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Jackson's face.
Graves drops a big elbow. That's hurt Jackson! More shots from Graves and the ref steps in! The fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:43 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
A determined Ernest Graves didn't want to dwell on this fight in his post fight interview. Instead he was more keen to state he wants a title shot. Let's see if he gets it!

 

Event: C96: Nagasaki vs. Kenobi 3     
Date:   Apr 30, 2022
#R1#
Graves misses with a hook #CL#
and Terrell counters by moving into the clinch.
Terrell doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Graves blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Terrell misses with a hook to the ribs.
Good body shot from Graves.
Graves lands an uppercut.
Graves lands a shoulder strike.
Graves blocking some punches.
A left hand lands to the body for Graves.
Terrell misses with the head strike.
Terrell working aggressively here.
Terrell 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.
Terrell swings wildly with an uppercut but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
A right hand to the body from Terrell.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Terrell.
Terrell tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Terrell.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Terrell. #TD2#
Graves has managed to pull guard. Let's see whether he can work an aggressive guard. It will also be interesting to see what tactics Terrell uses from the top position.
Graves is looking to sweep but instead, Terrell has passed into half guard. #T1#
Graves wants to control but Terrell is keeping busy.
Graves tries to roll over but Terrell keeps him under control.
Graves gets back to full guard.
Graves looking for a sweep. Not yet Graves, not yet.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Terrell got a little sloppy there for a moment and Graves has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Terrell has managed to get both his arms back between Graves's legs - danger averted.
Graves lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Terrell swivels though and keeps the full guard. #T2#
Graves with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Terrell keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Terrell thows some rabbit punches from the bottom but they don't do any damage.
Graves makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Graves working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Graves passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Graves staying calm.
Graves lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Terrell down. #T3#
Graves wants to control but Terrell is keeping him busy.
Terrell regains half guard.
Graves works his foot free and advances to mount.
Graves lands a nice shot to the head.
Graves with the ground and pound from mount.
Graves with good strikes from the mount here!
Graves trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Graves looking to finish with strikes here! #T4#
Graves looking to control but Terrell is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Terrell wants to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Graves misses with a series of strikes from mount. He'll no doubt be working on his ground and pound when he gets back to the gym.
Graves fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Terrell is in all sorts of trouble here.
Graves landing punches.
Graves tries to control but Terrell wriggling away.
Graves putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
A nice elbow there by Graves.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Graves throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Graves jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Terrell displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Graves throws out the jab.
Terrell on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Terrell tests Graves's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Terrell throws a hook to the side of Graves's head but Graves sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Terrell throws a head kick that misses.
Phillip Terrell seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Terrell swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Graves counters with a nice uppercut.
Graves waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Terrell.
Graves uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Terrell.
Graves drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Terrell defends it well.
Terrell throws a head kick but Graves moves out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Graves closes the distance and clinches up with Terrell, looking for a takedown. Graves pushes Terrell against the cage but Terrell circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Terrell with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Graves to score with a decent uppercut.
Terrell takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
A big right from Terrell misses. #T1#
Graves walks into a straight right hand from Terrell.
Graves on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Terrell lands a leg kick that knocks Graves off balance momentarily.
Terrell misses with a body shot
and Graves makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Terrell lands a jab. Then a cross. Then finally a nice hook to the body. Good work there by Terrell.
Graves looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Graves throws a shot from downtown. Terrell moves away and avoids it.
Terrell takes a punch to the jaw and another one to the bread basket.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Graves misses with a looping left.
Terrell throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Graves sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Graves looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Terrell connects with a leg kick.
Terrell takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Terrell misses with a jab, cross combination.
Graves swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Terrell dips down and scores with a jab to the body.#T2#
The fighters circle momentarily. Terrell darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Terrell looks to land a combination. Graves sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Graves blocks a low kick nicely.
Jab by Terrell.
Graves throws a hook but Terrell avoids it easily.
Terrell misses with a kick to the body
and Graves counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
A big right from Graves misses.
Graves throws a jab when Terrell was well out of range.
A nice leg kick lands there from Terrell.
Terrell tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Terrell.
Graves throws out a counter right but Terrell avoids it with no problem.
Terrell throws a body shot but no joy.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Graves! But no joy.
Terrell tries to clinch there but Graves circles away.
Graves throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Terrell stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Graves ducks right into an uppercut from Terrell.
Graves avoids the clinch attempt nicely. #T3#
Graves takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Phillip Terrell is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
A looping hook to the body misses from Terrell. Graves does a little dance to reset his feet.
Terrell connects with the punch.
Terrell looks to land a body kick but Graves moved away.
Terrell is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Graves.
Terrell throws a nice inside leg kick.
Terrell bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Terrell appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
Terrell is looking to clinch.
Terrell missing with a left hand there. Graves was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Terrell waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
Graves changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Terrell ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
Terrell uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Graves has time to react.
Phillip Terrell is winning the standup battle so far.
Graves throws out a loose jab but Terrell uses good head movement to avoid it.
Terrell throws the left hand but Graves avoids the punch easily.
Graves swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.#T4#
Terrell tries to score with a low kick but Graves moves his leg out of the way.
Terrell swings and misses with a shot to the body
enabling Graves to counter with a crisp jab.
Terrell lands a glancing blow to the side of Graves's head.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Terrell throws a sloppy body shot
and Graves counters with a straight right hand.
Terrell throws a leg kick that misses.
Graves scores with a jab to the head.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Graves, as that shot connected.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Terrell.
Graves avoids the body shot from Terrell.
Graves is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Terrell.
Terrell swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Terrell's corner calls for a 1-2. Terrell obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Terrell throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Terrell fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Graves checks it well.
Graves moves out of range of the strikes.
Graves looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Phillip Terrell will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Terrell blocks a jab.
Graves fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Terrell looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
A shot to the liver by Graves. Beautiful body shot.
Terrell misses with an uppercut. Graves saw that one coming.
Terrell misses with a low kick as Graves jumps back.
Graves throws a hook to the side of Terrell's head but Terrell sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Terrell throws a jab but it's blocked by Graves.
Terrell lands a nice looking kick to the body. Graves takes a step back to recover.
Graves defending well as Terrell loads up on a big left hand.
Terrell throws a body shot but no joy.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Terrell ducks right into an uppercut from Graves.
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Terrell scores with a hook.
Terrell uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Graves.
Terrell blocks a jab.
Graves might want to mix his strikes up a bit more. He's just going for head shots at the moment and that can become a bit predictable.#T1#
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
A quick step to the side and Terrell tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
The crowd cheers as Graves lands an impressive looking overhand right. Terrell doesn't seem phased though.
Terrell throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range. #TD2#
Terrell gets caught flat footed, as Graves shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Graves has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Terrell is keeping the position for now.
Graves forces his way into half guard.
Terrell keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Graves working his ground and pound in the gym. So far it seems to be working well.#SUB2#
Graves is working for an americana but Terrell has been sneaky and has managed to get back to half guard, whilst Graves was thinking about the submission.
Graves passes Terrell's left leg - he's now in half guard. #T2#
Graves thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Graves looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Terrell with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Graves wants to advance to full mount but Terrell doesn't think that's going to happen and regains full guard instead.
Graves loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Terrell keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Graves pushing down on Terrell's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Graves lands a nice short elbow.
Terrell is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #T3#
Graves misses with a head shot. Terrell uses the momentum to regain guard.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Terrell swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves stands and throws Terrell's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Graves tries to advance to mount but can't.
Graves trying to control the action but Terrell is working from the bottom. #T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Graves tries to move to mount but Terrell blocks the move with his legs.
Graves is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Graves tries to advance to mount but Terrell instead regains half guard.
Graves looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Terrell tries to roll over but Graves keeps him under control.

And that's the end of the fight!
Ernest Graves comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Graves has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Yukihiro Shimada scores the fight 28:29
Judge Taro Takaoka scores the fight 28:29
Judge Tatsuya Matsuyama scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

During a confident post fight interview, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

 

Event: C93: Alyoshin vs. Fujimoto     
Date:   Apr 09, 2022
#R1##CL2#
Lermontov moves into the clinch successfully.
Graves lands a left hand. #TD2#
Lermontov gets control of Graves's arms and successfully pulls guard. Lermontov will no doubt be looking for submissions off his back.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Lermontov swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Lermontov's head.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Lermontov working for a triangle but Graves defends it easily.
Lermontov working a defensive guard here.
Graves scoring with some ground and pound.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Graves got a little sloppy there for a moment and Lermontov has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Graves has managed to get both his arms back between Lermontov's legs - danger averted.
Graves pushes down on Lermontov's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Graves wants to take a breather but Lermontov is having none of it. #T1#
Graves works his foot free and advances to mount.
Graves putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Graves unloading with bombs!#ROC#Lermontov is rocked!
Graves lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Lermontov is still in real trouble! Can Graves finish him?
We've been hearing that Graves has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Graves cracks Lermontov with a big head shot that has him covering up instantly! He's rolled onto his side and the referee has seen enough - this one is aaaaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:47 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: C91: Tofail vs. Fujimoto 2     
Date:   Mar 27, 2022
#R1#
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but White Jr is just out of range.
White Jr swings widly with a right hand
and Graves counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
White Jr uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
White Jr scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Graves steps to his left, right into the path of a big body kick from White Jr. That one must have hurt.#TD2#
Graves gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows White Jr to score an easy takedown into full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
White Jr wants to control from the top but Graves keeps moving.
Graves 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#
Graves tries to pass the half guard into mount. White Jr knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
White Jr is looking to improve his position. #T1#
Graves trying to control the action but White Jr is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
White Jr is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Graves pulls his head out easily.
White Jr tries to strike from the bottom but it doesn't land. #SUB2#
White Jr actively working from the bottom here.
Graves passes the guard and advances to mount!
Graves is in the full mount, landing strikes.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as White Jr is looking to escape.
Graves lands a nice shot to the head. #T2#
Graves raining down hammerfists from mount.
We've been hearing that Graves has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.#SUB#
Graves has hold of White Jr's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and White Jr manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger.
Graves working White Jr over with strikes here.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
White Jr is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
White Jr slips a leg in and gets back to half guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
White Jr is trying desperately to improve position.
Graves avoids the attempt from White Jr to control.#T3#
Graves postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. White Jr looks a forlorn figure. #ROC#White Jr is rocked!
Graves drops a big elbow. That's hurt White Jr! More shots from Graves and the ref steps in! The fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:34 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
After winning the bout, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.
Bruce White Jr was interviewed post fight and said 'I'll be back!'.

 

Event: C86: Bobblehead vs. Bangin     
Date:   Feb 20, 2022
#R1#
Ahma connects with a crisp jab. #CUT#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Ahma is looking to clinch.
Despite the aggression on Graves's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Graves lands with a cross.
Ahma with a nice cross.#TD2#
Graves closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Graves throws a strike but Ahma avoids it easily and moves to full guard.
Graves makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Ahma avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Ahma is retaining full guard.
Ahma keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
Graves has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.#T1#
Graves trying to pass the guard. He's being very persistent here but Ahma manages to land a sweep and now he's on top! #REVR#
Graves keeping full guard, as Ahma tries to pass.
Graves is looking to sweep but instead, Ahma has passed into half guard.
Graves works his way to full guard. Good work.
Ahma trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Ahma pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Graves is keeping the position for now.
Graves wants to sweep here but Ahma controlling him for the moment. #T2#
Ahma's corner is telling him to maintain position.
Ahma stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.#SUB2#
Graves has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Ahma can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Graves wants to sweep but no luck.
Ahma has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Ahma controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Ahma stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.
Graves keeping full guard, as Ahma tries to pass.
Ahma sitting in guard here, content to control. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.#T3#
No joy there for Ahma, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Ahma is looking to clinch but Graves is avoiding it.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Graves! But no joy.#CL#
Ahma closes the distance and clinches.
The pace really dropping off here, momentarily.
Ahma's corner are urging him to control the action in the clinch for a moment, rather than mount any serious offense. I'm sure the crowd appreciate those instructions... not.
Graves changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Ahma fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Ahma is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Graves looks to land a left hand but Ahma moved out of range nicely.#T4##CL#
Ahma clinches. #BC#
Ahma breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat. #TD#
Graves gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Ahma to score an easy takedown into full guard.
Graves looking for a sweep. Not yet Graves, not yet.
Graves being controlled here, momentarily.
Ahma stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.
Graves controls Ahma momentarily but Ahma frees himself.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Graves has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Ahma can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Graves keeping moving, preventing Ahma from controlling successfully.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Verneri Ahma dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
That's time! Ahma's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Ahma throws a good cross that connects.
Graves takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Graves unleashes a big counter combination but Ahma bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
Graves takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Jab, jab by Graves - just one landing.
Ahma scores with a spinning back kick!
Ahma throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Graves.
Nice shot by Ahma.#ROC#Graves is rocked!
Verneri Ahma is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Ahma misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Graves is still on wobbly legs! Can Ahma finish him?
Graves looks up at the clock. Bad move! Ahma lands a right hand from hell, dropping Graves. Ahma pounces and finishes the fight with a flurry of punches and elbows.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:38 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Verneri Ahma!
An out of breath Verneri Ahma thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: OFK 161 - Mogg Vs Jahouli     
Date:   Jan 22, 2022
#R1#
Graves moves out of range as Petrov strikes.
Graves swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Petrov.
Graves throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Petrov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Graves checks the leg kick.
Petrov misses the body punch
and Graves counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Graves throws a series of punches but Petrov moves out of range.
Petrov displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Graves throws out the jab.
Petrov looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Petrov throws a lazy uppercut
and Graves counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Petrov is looking to chop away at Graves's legs.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Petrov misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Graves scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Graves lands with a nice combination. Petrov backs away looking to recover.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Petrov uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Graves.#T1#
Graves lands a head shot.
Graves lands a jab.
Graves lands with a right hand.
Graves lands a jab. Then a cross. Then finally a nice hook to the body. Good work there by Graves.#ROC#Petrov is rocked!
Graves drops Petrov with a straight right hand, right on the button! Graves follows him down to the mat and pounds him out with hammerfists until the referee jumps in to end the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:36 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
During a confident post fight interview, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

 

Event: OFK 156 - Cosby Vs Jarr     
Date:   Jan 02, 2022
#R1#
Copeland tries to close the distance and clinch but Graves swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Graves fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Copeland looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.#TD#
Graves feints and as Copeland raises his hands in defense, Graves changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Copeland bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Graves's guard. #REVB#
Graves seems to have improved his submission grappling technique since last time we saw him. Let's see if he can pull off a submission.
Graves wants to sweep here but Copeland controlling him for the moment. #SUB#
Graves looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Graves wants to sweep here but Copeland controlling him for the moment.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves is trying to keep Copeland in close.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves wants to sweep here but Copeland controlling him for the moment.
Graves can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Copeland controls the pace.
Graves avoiding any damage from the ground and pound. #T1#
Copeland with a flurry of punches that miss. #SUB#
Graves looking for a guillotine here but Copeland defends easily.
Graves 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.
Copeland tries to free his leg and advance position but Graves is retaining full guard.
Graves is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Copeland trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Copeland preventing the sweep.
Copeland throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Graves works some decent striking defense from the bottom. #SUB#
Graves is looking for a triangle but Copeland pushes his legs off easily.
Copeland slips nicely into half guard.
Copeland is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Graves is looking for a sweep. Copeland is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#T2#
Copeland throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man. #SUB#
Graves looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB2#
Copeland is working for a kimura but Graves is defending it quite comfortably.
Copeland is looking to advance position but Graves won't allow it.
Copeland thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Graves's head.
Graves keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound. #SUB#
Graves looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Copeland has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Graves tries to reverse the position but Copeland maintains control.#T3#
Graves sneaks a leg under to get to half guard.
Copeland is looking to take a break and control but Graves is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #SUB2#
Copeland 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.
Graves is trying to control but can't. #SU2#
Copeland gets to his feet - back to striking we go!
Graves listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Copeland throws a jab but it's blocked by Graves.
Copeland is looking to take this fight into the clinch.#T4##CL2#
Copeland pushes Graves up against the cage in a clinch.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Graves.
Copeland is trying to stall.
Graves blocks a punch to the side of the head. #BC#
Graves escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Copeland is looking to clinch but Graves is avoiding it.
Graves drops down looking for a counter takedown but Copeland sprawls and moves away.
Graves swats away the attempt to clinch by Copeland.
Copeland tries to clinch there but Graves circles away.
Graves throws a hook to the side of Copeland's head but Copeland sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Copeland misses the jab.
Copeland ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
Graves uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Copeland has time to react.
Copeland moves in looking to clinch but Graves pushes him off.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Copeland tries to close the distance and clinch but Graves swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Copeland fails with an attempt to clinch.
Graves throwing a counter right hand but Copeland manages to avoid it.
Graves swats away the attempt to clinch by Copeland.#CL2#
Copeland closes the distance and clinches.
Graves fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Graves scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Graves on the defensive, avoiding the knees to the body.
Graves lands with a short punch from the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Copeland working some nice short punches in the clinch.#TD#
Graves turns his hips and lands a very nice judo throw into side control!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Copeland keeps working.
Copeland tries to bench press Graves off him but Graves keeps the position. #SUB#
Graves is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Copeland is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now. #T1#
Copeland on the wrong end of some ground and pound.
Graves lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Copeland down.
Copeland regains half guard.
The fighters are battling for position here. Copeland manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Copeland is keeping the position.
Graves is working hard here to advance position.
Graves won't allow Copeland to sweep him here.
Copeland is still trying to improve position.#SUB2#
Copeland is looking for a triangle but Graves pushes his legs off easily.
Graves passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Graves in side control lands a decent elbow. #T2#
Copeland tries to improve position but can't.
Copeland is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Copeland is not content to let Graves control the position.
Graves lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Copeland down.
Copeland is looking for a sweep.
Graves lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face.
Copeland is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.
Copeland wants to get back to full guard.
Graves working Copeland over with strikes.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves is looking to advance position but Copeland won't allow it.
Copeland wants to control but Graves is keeping busy.
Graves wants to control but Copeland is keeping him busy.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Graves lands a nice short elbow.
Copeland regains full guard. Nicely done. #T3#
Copeland keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Copeland is retaining full guard.
Graves working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Copeland's head.
Copeland keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Graves stopping the sweep attempt from Copeland.
Graves passes Copeland's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Copeland is trying to get back to full guard.
Copeland keeps trying to improve his position.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Copeland is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Copeland tries to kick Graves off but Graves keeps his base steady and stays in half guard. #T4#
Copeland regains full guard. Nicely done. #SUB2#
Copeland had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Graves defends it easily.
Copeland 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#
Graves makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Graves.#SUB#
Graves is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle. #SUB#
Graves working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Copeland doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Copeland manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Copeland stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.
Copeland slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Graves tries to get back to half guard but can't.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Copeland tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Graves manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Copeland is looking to clinch.
Graves circles away from the clinch attempt.
Graves throwing a counter right hand but Copeland manages to avoid it.
Graves throws a series of punches but Copeland avoids them all with ease.
Copeland is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Copeland tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Graves paws at him with a jab and circles away.
It looked like Graves wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Copeland tries to clinch up but Graves circles away and keeps his distance.
Graves keeps the fight on the outside.
Copeland tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Graves throws a big counter combination but Copeland scrambles out of danger and avoids any damage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Copeland tries to clinch there but Graves circles away.
Graves scores with a jab to the jaw.#CL2#
Copeland has managed to clinch.
Copeland misses with the head strike.
Copeland throws a punch but it's blocked by Graves. #T1##BC#
Graves pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Graves scores with a hook.
Graves on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Copeland tries to close the distance and clinch but Graves swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Graves clobbers Copeland with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Graves throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Despite the aggression on Copeland's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Copeland slips a jab from Graves.
Graves misses with a jab, cross combination.
A right-left combo lands from Graves. #TD2#
Copeland drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Copeland keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Graves's head.
Graves lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR#
Ernest Graves overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Copeland manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Graves manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Graves is on top in guard. #REVR##T2##SUB2#
Copeland has his foot on Graves's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Graves works his way back into a safe position though.
Graves slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Graves wants to control but Copeland is keeping him busy.
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Copeland can do to turn this around?
Copeland is looking to reverse the position.#SUB#
Graves is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Copeland has escaped the position, nice work there.
Graves tries to move into full mount but can't pass Copeland's legs.
Both fighters have adopted an aggressive gameplan on the ground!
Copeland tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Copeland is not content to let Graves control the position. #T3#
Copeland tries to improve position but can't.
Copeland is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Graves off and has taken his back!
Graves rolls and manages to get back to half guard. Nicely done.
Copeland is trying to get back to his feet now but his leg is trapped.
Copeland is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Graves tries to roll over but Copeland keeps him under control.
Graves slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Copeland passes into half guard.
Copeland landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent. #T4#
Graves is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Copeland's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Copeland's back!
Graves lands an elbow to the side of the head.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves throwing damaging strikes from the back! Copeland could be in trouble here!
Graves lands shots from the back.
Graves is hanging on to Copeland's back as he tries to escape. #SUB#
Graves looking for the choke from the back.
Graves scores with a nice shot to the head of his opponent. Copeland is looking for a way out.
Graves is trying to stick to Copeland's back but Copeland is turning into Graves. He's managed to reverse the position - now he's in Graves's guard. Polite applause from the crowd in appreciation of some nice Jiu Jitsu by Copeland.
Copeland preventing the sweep.
Graves lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR#
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Copeland swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Aafke Stam scores the fight 30:27
Judge Radbod Blank scores the fight 30:27
Judge Patrick Alders scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

A victorious Ernest Graves thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.
Travis Copeland was interviewed post fight and said 'No one likes seeing their opponent's hand raised, but that just means that they were the better man today. My team at 3Band MMA and I will break down this match and make the proper changes for my next camp.'.

 

Event: OFK 148 - Cosby Vs Mogg     
Date:   Dec 05, 2021
#R1#
Graves lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Plutov lets the fists fly and connects with a left straight followed by a right hook.
Graves swats away the attempt to clinch by Plutov.
Graves with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Plutov to score with a decent uppercut.
Graves wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Plutov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Graves lands with a cross.
Plutov closes the distance but Graves moves to the side
and Graves counters with a nice uppercut.
The fight stays on the outside here - Plutov looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Plutov throws a big shot that misses.
Plutov moves forwards but Graves connects with a nice, crisp jab.
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!
Plutov throws a series of punches but Graves avoids them all with ease.
Plutov throws a left and a right that both miss #TD#
and Graves counters with a nice double leg into side control. Plutov won't be happy with that.

Plutov throws his opponent off and manages to get back to his feet! Nicely done!#T1#
Plutov tries to clinch there but Graves circles away.
A jab from Graves misses.
Plutov connects with a high kick. #CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Donk. Graves catches Plutov right on the button with a cross.
Graves scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Plutov throws a chopping leg kick but Graves manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
As Plutov looks to move away, Graves throws a big counter combo but Plutov just gets out of the way.
Graves avoids the head kick by Plutov.
Graves takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Graves misses with a wild combination.
As Graves backs off Plutov throws a huge counter combo but Graves manages to avoid it all.
Plutov lands with a slapping head kick.
Graves has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Tōshi in the buildup to 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!
Plutov wants to clinch.
Graves attempts a counter takedown but Plutov avoids it well and moves away.#T2#
Plutov scores with a jab to the body.
Graves connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.#TD#
Graves 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.
Plutov wants to get back to his feet but Graves passes into half guard. #REVB#
Plutov pushes Graves off looking to stand but Graves dives back in and keeps control.
Graves controlling the pace.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Plutov keeps working.
Graves working Plutov over with strikes.
Graves working over Plutov with some ground and pound. Plutov looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Plutov is trying to stand back up but Graves is controlling him
Graves landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent. #T3#
Graves tries to pass the half guard into mount. Plutov knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Graves missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but Plutov is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Plutov tries to kick Graves off but Graves keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
Graves is keen to just control but Plutov is a slippery customer.
Graves tries to pass the half guard into mount. Plutov knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Plutov keeps working.
Plutov taking some punishment here, with Graves in his half guard.
Plutov keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Graves throwing shots but Plutov is blocking nicely.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T4#
Plutov is looking to escape.
Graves is looking to advance position but Plutov won't allow it.
Graves working over Plutov with some ground and pound. Plutov looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#ES2#
Plutov has one foot on Graves's thigh - he pushes off and manages to get back to his feet.#TD#
Graves shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Plutov napping and manages to drive through into side control!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves trying to control the action but Plutov is working from the bottom.
Plutov is trying to escape and get back to his feet.
Graves trying to control the action but Plutov is working from the bottom.
Both fighters have adopted an aggressive gameplan on the ground!
Plutov tries to wriggle free to get back to his feet but he's given up his back! Oops.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
A slapping body kick lands there for Plutov.
Graves uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Plutov.
Plutov misses with a looping left.
Plutov tries to close the distance and clinch but Graves swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Plutov.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Plutov throws a lazy uppercut
enabling Graves to counter with a crisp jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Plutov drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Graves bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Plutov's head backwards.
Plutov throws a shot from downtown. Graves moves away and avoids it.
Plutov throws a body kick that misses
and Graves connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Plutov tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Graves manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.#T1#
Plutov throws a body shot but no joy.
Plutov misses with a looping left.
It looked like Graves wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Wasyl Plutov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Plutov misses with a body shot.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Graves, as that shot connected.
Graves showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Plutov.
Plutov lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.
Plutov looks to land a right hand but Graves moved out of range.
A decent looking cross lands there for Graves.
Graves is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Graves dodges the punch combination from Plutov.
Graves misses with an uppercut. Plutov saw that one coming.
Plutov misses with a lunging right hand
and Plutov takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Plutov steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Graves.#T2#
Plutov stuffs the takedown.
Graves lands a nice shot that snaps Plutov's head back.
Wasyl Plutov is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Plutov doesn't manage to clinch there - Graves circles away.
Plutov slips a jab from Graves.
Graves slips a jab from Plutov.
Graves is looking to counter punch.
Graves throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Plutov.
Plutov misses with a lunging right hand
and Graves counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Plutov just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves throwing a counter right hand but Plutov manages to avoid it.
Plutov scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Graves throws a right and a left that both miss.
As Graves backs off Plutov throws a huge counter combo but Graves manages to avoid it all.
A head kick misses from Plutov.
Graves attempts a counter takedown but Plutov avoids it well and moves away.
Plutov tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Graves manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Graves avoids the head kick by Plutov.
Graves was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Plutov slips a straight right by Graves.
Wasyl Plutov is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.#T3#
Plutov throws a right hand that misses
enabling Graves to counter with a crisp jab.
Plutov misses with a left hand
and Graves makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Plutov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Plutov.
Graves feinted with a counter takedown.
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Plutov can do to turn this around?
A swing and a miss from Graves.
Graves 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.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Plutov 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 Graves has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Graves and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
A jab from Plutov misses.
Plutov throws a right hand that Graves ducks under and follows up with a left that Graves also avoids with ease.
Graves appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Plutov waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
Plutov throws a right and a left that both miss.
Plutov throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Plutov throws a head kick that half lands.
Graves connects with a good right hand that stumbles Plutov. Plutov circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Plutov is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves throws a right hand that Plutov ducks under and follows up with a left that Plutov also avoids with ease.#T4#
Plutov misses with a double jab
and Graves counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Graves with a jab.
Graves moves into range and throws a combination. A nice jab followed by a hook to the body.
Graves swats away the attempt to clinch by Plutov.
Plutov swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
enabling Graves to counter with a crisp jab.
Plutov misses the jab.
Jab by Graves.
Plutov tries to clinch
and Plutov takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
The fight stays on the outside here - Plutov looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Graves takes a shot to the body in his stride.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
That's time! Back to the action! And we move into the final round!#R3#
Graves throws a big shot that misses.
Plutov looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.#CL2#
Plutov closes the distance and clinches.
Still in the clinch, Graves scores with a nice short uppercut.
Plutov takes a shot to the head.
Graves tries to score a body lock takedown but Plutov shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Plutov pushes Graves back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Plutov lands a nice uppercut.
Graves is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Plutov has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Graves presses Plutov against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Plutov looking to throw knees to the head but Graves is blocking nicely. #BC#
Graves pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Graves takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Graves takes a head kick and keeps coming.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
A decent looking cross lands there for Graves.
Plutov throws a series of punches but Graves moves out of range. #T1#
Graves bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Plutov misses with a head kick.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Graves.
Graves connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.#TD#
Graves throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Plutov was covering up waiting for the punch and Graves finishes the takedown easily into guard.
Graves advances position into side control!
Graves trying to control the action but Plutov is working from the bottom.
Graves working the ground and pound.
Plutov tries to escape but Graves is in control.
The strikes coming from Graves are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
Graves 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.#T2#
Graves working the ground and pound but Plutov is defending the strikes.
Plutov is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Graves has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Plutov stops Graves from passing to mount.
Graves prevents Plutov from escaping the position.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Plutov is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Plutov pushes Graves away and creates a bit of space to escape. He's almost out here... but no, Graves gets a good hold of his legs and remains firmly in side control.
Graves taking a breather here.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Plutov tries to escape but Graves is in control.
Graves is chipping away with strikes.
Plutov is pushing Graves's head away, looking to escape. Graves manages to hold on to the position though.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Plutov keeps working.
Ernest Graves overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#T3##SUB#
Graves is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Plutov has escaped the position, nice work there.
Plutov stops Graves from passing to mount.
Plutov tries to escape but Graves is in control. #ES2#
Plutov explodes and escapes back to his feet! Nice escape there!
Graves scores with a body shot.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Graves.
Plutov tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Graves manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Graves feinted with a counter takedown.
Plutov rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
enabling Graves to counter with a crisp jab.
Plutov uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Graves.#T4#
Plutov throws out a loose jab but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Plutov ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Plutov misses with a series of wild punches.
Graves attempts a counter takedown but Plutov avoids it well and moves away.
Graves smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Graves steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Plutov.
Plutov throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Plutov misses with a double jab
and Graves counters with a left and a right that stings Plutov.
Wasyl Plutov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Plutov fails with an attempt to clinch.
Graves dives in for a single leg takedown but Plutov sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Plutov is trying to maintain a safe position but Graves gets an underhook and turns Plutov into the cage.
Ernest Graves is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Graves.
Graves takes an elbow to the temple.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ben Hemmingworth scores the fight 30:27
Judge Bruno Hogan scores the fight 30:27
Judge John Mangel scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

Ernest Graves seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: OFK 138 -     
Date:   Oct 31, 2021
#R1#
Holloway misses with a kick to the body.
Max Holloway seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Holloway misses with a wild body shot.
Graves throws a right and a left that both miss.
Some bone on bone action there as Graves checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one.
It looked like Graves was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Holloway.
Graves closes the distance and lands a one-two.
A jab from Holloway does it's job there.
Holloway 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.
Graves throws a right and a left that both miss.
Holloway throws a jab when Graves was well out of range.
Graves has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Tōshi in the buildup to the fight.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Holloway.
Holloway tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Graves swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Graves on the wrong end of a nice jab.#CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Holloway.
Holloway throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Holloway tries a head kick but it misses.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Holloway.
Graves walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.#ROC2#Graves is rocked!
Holloway moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Oh Graves is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!#T1#
Holloway throws a leg kick that is checked#TD#
and Graves counters with a single leg into guard. Holloway didn't expect that.

Holloway wriggles free and stands up.
Holloway drops Graves with a straight left! Oh this is bad for Graves! Holloway dives in and starts dropping bombs - the referee has no choice but to step in and save him!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:12 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Max Holloway!
Max Holloway is the new lightweight champion!
Max Holloway really struggled to get his t-shirt on before his hand was raised. Making sure that FUClothing logo gets some air time is pretty tricky when you're all sweaty.

 

Event: OFK 131 - Graves Vs plutov     
Date:   Oct 09, 2021
#R1##CL2#
Plutov moves into range and clinches up with Graves.
Knees to the body from Plutov.
Graves will no doubt start fighting again in a minute but for now he's just having a little rest, leaning Plutov up against the cage.
Plutov misses with the head strike.
Graves is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Plutov is defending well.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Graves.
Graves avoids a wild elbow strike from Plutov.
Graves blocks the elbow strike.
Graves has Plutov pressed against the cage.
The pace really dropping off here, momentarily.
Graves gets a warning from the ref for wasting time.
Graves lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Plutov stalling here - the referee won't stand for too much of that.
Plutov lands a damaging elbow. #CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves tries to pull guard but Plutov forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Graves lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Graves wants a takedown but no success here.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Plutov pushes Graves back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.#T1#
Plutov using the Thai clinch to land knees to the body.
Graves softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
A short right from Graves.
Graves struggles to land a body shot inside as Plutov controls his hands.
Plutov misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Graves working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Plutov is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Graves is defending well for now.
Plutov tries to land knees in the clinch but Graves avoids the damage to the body.
Graves has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Plutov avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Graves.
Plutov throws a head punch that misses.
Plutov creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses.
Plutov effectively controlling the action here.
Graves scores with a shot to the side of Plutov's head.
Graves tries to pull guard but Plutov forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
A shot in the inside from Graves.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nice body punch from Graves - that landed with a thud.
Plutov has been looking to improve his clinch game in recent weeks. Graves seems to have the measure of him in the clinch so far, so let's see if Plutov can turn it around.
Plutov goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Graves stalling against the cage. #T2#
Graves blocks an elbow strike.
Graves has been working on his balance at Tōshi, so perhaps that has help him stuff some of the takedown attempts by Plutov.
Plutov is pressed up against the cage. Graves has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Plutov down to the mat. Plutov avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance. #CL2#
Plutov gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Plutov.
Plutov misses with a short punch on the inside.
Graves lands a nice uppercut.
Plutov tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Graves throws a head punch that misses.
Plutov doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Plutov unloads a knee to the mid-section. Graves lets out a prehistoric sounding urrrrgh.
Graves blocks an elbow strike.
Plutov blocking some punches.
A bit of stalling here from Plutov.
Plutov throws an elbow but it's blocked.
Plutov throws an elbow that misses.
Graves taking a break, stalling in the clinch.
Graves lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Graves tries to pull guard but Plutov holds him up against the cage and eventually Graves drops back down to his feet.
Graves working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.#T3#
Graves misses with a hook from the clinch.
Knees to the body from Plutov.
Graves tries to throw a body punch but Plutov avoids it by throwing Graves back against the cage.
Graves tries to score a body lock takedown but Plutov shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Nice elbow from Plutov.
Graves swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Graves tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
A head punch on the inside from Graves fails to land.
Graves misses with some punches.
Plutov tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Graves fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Plutov tries to land a knee to the head but Graves blocks with his arms.
Graves misses with a hook from the clinch.
Plutov is leaning against Graves and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Plutov's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Plutov lands a shot to the body.
Graves tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A short uppercut from Graves.
Graves swings wildly with an uppercut but Plutov uses good head movement to avoid it. #T4#
Plutov utilising his Muay Thai to score with a knee to the body.
This has been an exciting period of action!
A quick uppercut on the inside from Graves.
Plutov working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Plutov tries to work over Graves's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Plutov unloads a knee to the mid-section. Graves lets out a prehistoric sounding urrrrgh.
Plutov misses with the head strike.
Graves blocking some punches.
Graves scores with a nice hook to the head.
The fighters are starting to get sweaty, which will make takedowns a bit more tricky.
Kneeeeees! The crowd are calling for knees to the body. Plutov obliges.
Graves throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Plutovs head.
Plutov throws an elbow but it misses.
Graves doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Graves lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
The pace slowing considerably in the clinch, as Plutov takes a break from that fighting nonsense to think about the finer things in life.
Plutov throws an elbow that misses.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Plutov misses with an elbow over the top.
With the fighters up against the cage, Plutov throws an elbow but misses.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Wasyl Plutov will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Plutov misses with a jab, cross combination.
Graves was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Graves cracks Plutov with a good jab.
Plutov stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Plutov misses with a wild body shot.
Plutov rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Graves connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Graves sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.
Graves showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Plutov.
Graves avoids the body shot from Plutov.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Plutov lands a jab.
A combination from Plutov does no damage.
Graves lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Graves lunges at Plutov with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Plutov's hand.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Plutov misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves. #T1##CL#
Graves moves into the clinch.
Plutov with the Thai clinch. He's looking to land a big knee but he's not managed it this time.
Plutov tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Plutov using the Thai clinch to land knees to the body.
A short right from Plutov on the inside.
Plutov looks to throw an elbow but misses.
Plutov stalling in the clinch but Graves improves position.
Plutov tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Graves scores with a shoulder strike.
Graves lands with a short head shot on the inside.
A short left from Graves.
A short right from Graves on the inside.
Graves misses with the head strike.
Graves working aggressively here.
Graves lands with a right to the head.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Plutov scores a nice knee to the body.
Plutov misses with an elbow over the top.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Graves creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut. #T2#
Graves blocks an elbow strike.
Graves swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Plutov looking to stall. #TD#
Graves ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Graves no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard.
Plutov must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Graves is trying to control the position but Plutov postures up.
Plutov postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Plutov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Graves is keeping the position for now. #SU2#
Plutov decides to stand up and beckons his opponent to follow. #TD#
Plutov gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Plutov is retaining full guard.
Plutov keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Plutov is keeping the position.#T3#
Graves stops Plutov from standing up.
Graves pushing down on Plutov's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Plutov is trying to stand up here but Graves is controlling him well.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Plutov keeps working.
Graves looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Plutov is trying to stand. #T4#
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.
Plutov is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.
Graves tries to pass the half guard into mount. Plutov knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Graves works his way into side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves tries to move to mount but Plutov blocks the move with his legs.
Graves advances to full mount.
Graves raining down hammerfists from mount.
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Plutov is looking to escape.
Plutov is trying to stand.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R3#
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Graves, as that shot connected. #CL2#
Plutov pushes Graves up against the cage in a clinch.
Graves lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Plutov.
Plutov misses with an elbow strike.
Ernest Graves has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Plutov throws an elbow but it's blocked.
Graves lands a right hand.
Graves wants a takedown.
Graves avoiding damage as Plutov throws knees to the body.
Plutov creates a bit of space for himself and sneaks an elbow through Graves's defenses.
Plutov pushes off and fires off an elbow that misses, before clinching up again, against the cage.
Plutov with an attempt at a knee that misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves throws a head punch that misses.
Plutov prevents a body shot from Graves.
Plutov working aggressively here.
Both guys are working to get underhooks.
Graves avoids a wild elbow strike from Plutov.
Graves pushes Plutov back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Graves lands with a short shot to the head. #T1#
Plutov is looking to control Graves's arms but Graves gets an underhook and turns him. Now Plutov has his back to the cage.
Graves slows down the pace here.
Graves is trying to pull guard but Plutov turns him against the cage and we stay in the clinch.
Graves lands a left hand that snaps the head of Plutov backwards.
Graves gets through Plutov's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Graves scores with a nice hook to the head.
Graves is trying to drag Plutov to the mat but Plutov just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves wants a takedown.
Plutov is pressed up against the cage. Graves has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Plutov down to the mat. Plutov avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Graves misses with a straight right.
Plutov misses with a hook
and Graves counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#CL2#
Graves gets tackled into the cage by Plutov. Plutov maintains the clinch.
Plutov lands a nice elbow from the clinch. #T2#
Plutov is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Graves misses with a hook from the clinch. #TD#
Graves pulls guard effortlessly.
Plutov postures up and lands a big shot to Graves's brow.
Ernest Graves overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Plutov is looking to stand up but Graves won't let him.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#SUB#
Graves had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Plutov defends it easily.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Graves is on top in guard. #REVR#
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Plutov keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully. #ES2#
Plutov kicks Graves off and gets to his feet.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Plutov throws out the jab.
Plutov will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away. #T3#
Plutov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Plutov.
Plutov throws a sloppy head kick and Graves moves out of range easily. #CL2#
Plutov clinches with his opponent.
A head punch on the inside from Graves fails to land.
Plutov is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Graves misses with a punch on the inside.
Plutov has a couple of punches blocked by Graves.
Plutov working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Plutov tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Graves's elbow.
Plutov swings wildly with an uppercut but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Plutov lands an elbow just above Graves 's eye.
Graves lands with a right to the head.
A short right from Graves on the inside.
Plutov lands a nice elbow from the clinch.
Plutov throws an elbow that misses. #T4#
A head punch blocked on the inside by Plutov.
Plutov wants to stall.
Graves working aggressively here.
Graves lands with a short shot to the head.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Plutov throws an elbow but it's blocked.
Plutov prevents a body shot from Graves.
Graves softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Plutov scores with a nice hook to the head.
Graves managing to block the knees to the body from Plutov.
Plutov lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Plutov lands a hook to the side of the head.
Plutov blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Plutov lands a left hand that snaps the head of Graves backwards.
Plutov blocking some punches.
Graves scores with a nice hook to the head.
A left hand lands to the body for Plutov. #TD#
Graves has hold of one of Plutov's legs. Plutov is fighting the takedown attempt but Graves gets the trip and lands the takedown into guard.

Plutov has managed to wall walk up one of the corner posts to get back to his feet. Graves is pushing him up against the cage, looking to control the position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close third round but Wasyl Plutov just about did enough to take it.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R4#
Plutov uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Graves.
Plutov throws an off balance right hand
and Graves counters with a lovely shot to the body.
A head kick by Plutov misses
letting Graves counter with a right hand.
Plutov rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Graves counters with a nice uppercut.
Plutov lands a slapping body shot.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Plutov.
Graves looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Plutov takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Plutov slips a straight right by Graves.#CL2#
Plutov clinches with his opponent.
Graves controlling the action here for a moment.
Plutov is trying to stall. #T1#
Plutov is trying to maintain a safe position but Graves gets an underhook and turns Plutov into the cage.
Graves dodges an elbow strike from Plutov.
Graves tries to throw a body punch but Plutov avoids it by throwing Graves back against the cage.
Some stalling of biblical proportions here from Graves.
Graves scores with a shot to the side of Plutov's head.
Plutov swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Graves lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Plutov backwards.
Graves leaning his opponent against the cage.
A head punch on the inside from Graves fails to land.
Plutov prevents the takedown attempt.
Plutov holding his opponent close, against the cage.
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Plutov's elbow.
Graves trying to stall but Plutov improves his position.
Graves lands a right hand that snaps the head of Plutov backwards. #T2#
Graves misses with a hook to the ribs.
A nice left hand lands by Plutov.
A battle for position here, against the cage.
Graves digs a right hand underneath Plutov's ribcage. Plutov let out a lung full of air as it connected.
Plutov wants to stall. #TD#
Graves works for the underhooks and manages to get a trip 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!
Plutov is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Graves is controlling him.
Graves missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#ES2#
Plutov has his feet on Graves's hips. He pushes off and gets to his feet. Nice work.
Plutov misses with a hook.
Plutov swings widly with a right hand
and Graves counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Wasyl Plutov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Plutov throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Graves is looking to counter with a shot to the body.#T3#
Plutov tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Plutov is absolutely dripping with sweat - he looks exhausted.
Plutov rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Graves moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
An attempted straight right counter from Graves misses the target.
Plutov will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Wasyl Plutov is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Plutov displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Graves throws out the jab.
Plutov looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Plutov throws a right hand that misses
and Graves connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
A jab from Plutov misses.
Plutov jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Plutov misses with a body shot.
Graves tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Plutov paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Plutov throws a wild combination but nothing lands. #CL2#
Plutov rushes Graves and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.#T4#
Plutov blocking some punches.
Graves lands a nice uppercut.
Plutov is pressed up against the cage. Graves has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Plutov down to the mat. Plutov avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Graves scores with the left hand. Plutov knows he should have avoided that one.
Plutov tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
No joy there for Plutov, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Plutov has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.#CL2#
Plutov darts in and clinches Graves up against the cage.
Graves is trying to drag Plutov to the mat but Plutov just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Plutov stalling in the clinch but Graves improves position.
Plutov is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Graves is defending well for now.
Graves drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Plutov trying to land knees to the body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close fourth round but I would say that Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
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. This is the final round!#R5#
Nice cross by Plutov.
Graves looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Plutov feints a jab promting Graves to slip. Plutov then demonstrates his capabilities by jabbing again. Graves slips again and ducks right into an uppercut.#CL2#
Plutov clinches up with Graves and pushes him back against the cage.
Plutov misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Graves.
Plutov lands with a right to the head.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves goes for a takedown attempt but Plutov pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
Graves throws a lazy right hand but Plutov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Plutov misses with a lunging right hand
and Graves counters with a one-two to the body.
Plutov waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
An attempted straight right counter from Graves misses the target.
Graves avoids the body shot from Plutov. #T1#
Plutov avoids the body shot from Graves.
Plutov tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Ernest Graves is winning the standup battle so far.
Graves throws a jab but it's blocked by Plutov.
Plutov throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
Graves walks into a straight right hand from Plutov.
Plutov misses with the combination.
Plutov throws a sloppy head kick
and Graves counters with a right hand to the body.
Plutov pushes Graves away with a front kick.
Graves avoids the body shot from Plutov.
Graves tries to clinch but Plutov is having none of it.
Graves catches Plutov with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Nice shot lands for Plutov.#T2#
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown but Plutov manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Graves's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Plutov throws a head kick that looked like it stung. #CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Plutov lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Plutov has a couple of punches blocked by Graves.
Graves lands a body shot.
Graves avoids a wild elbow strike from Plutov.
A body shot lands from Graves.
Plutov is wobbling all over the place through exhaustion. Will he make it to the final bell?
Graves lands a shoulder strike.
Graves swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Plutov stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Graves is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Plutov doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Graves lands with a short head shot on the inside. #T3#
Graves misses with the head strike.
Graves dodges an elbow strike from Plutov.
Plutov trying to land knees to the body.
Graves trying to control the position but instead, Plutov has worked for underhooks and has pushed Graves into the cage.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Graves creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Plutov fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Plutov with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Graves avoids the elbow strike from Plutov, against the cage.
Graves's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Graves lands an uppercut.
Graves misses with a punch on the inside.
Plutov throws a punch but it's blocked by Graves.
Graves blocking some punches.
Plutov misses with a hook to the ribs.
Graves lands a body punch in the clinch.
Graves working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.#T4#
Plutov misses with a body punch. #TD#
Graves jumps guard. #SUB#
Graves looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Plutov has decided he wants to stand but the closed guard of Graves is proving hard to escape from.
Both fighters have adopted an aggressive gameplan on the ground!
Graves looking to hit a scissor sweep but Plutov is one step ahead there.

And that's the end of the fight!
Wasyl Plutov comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Plutov has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Saam Ante scores the fight 48:48
Judge Radbod Blank scores the fight 49:48
Judge Wagner Zegers scores the fight 46:49

The fight is ruled a draw!

Ernest Graves retains his title. It's always disappointing when a championship fight ends as a draw but that's what happens when you leave the fight in the judges hands!

 

Event: OFK 123 - Power Vs Volkov     
Date:   Sep 11, 2021
#R1##CL2#
McDonnell clinches.
McDonnell letting Graves take a breather here.
McDonnell is looking to control Graves's arms but Graves gets an underhook and turns him. Now McDonnell has his back to the cage.
Graves tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. McDonnell smiles and moves away.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from McDonnell.
A telegraphed right hand from McDonnell misses the target.
Graves waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract McDonnell.
McDonnell misses with a hook to the body
and Graves counters with a two punch combo.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
McDonnell looks to throw the jab but Graves is out of range.
McDonnell throws a right and a left that Graves avoids nicely.
McDonnell takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Graves closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so. #T1#
McDonnell throws a predictable looking body shot
enabling Graves to counter with a crisp jab.
McDonnell misses with an uppercut #TD#
and Graves counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Graves performing his best blanket impression for a moment. #SUB#
Graves is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and McDonnell defends it well. #SUB#
Graves 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.
McDonnell tries to get to full guard but Graves has control of the leg. #T2#
McDonnell is staying active underneath Graves, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Graves has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
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. Graves connects with a nice short shot to McDonnell's temple.
Graves slips a nice elbow through McDonnell's hands, connecting with McDonnell's forehead.
Graves tries to pass to full mount but McDonnell defends it.
Graves is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound. #CUT#It looks like Ger McDonnell has been cut.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears. #T3#
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but McDonnell is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Graves trying to control from half guard but McDonnell is working away.
McDonnell wants to get back to full guard.
McDonnell won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
McDonnell is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
McDonnell really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Graves. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Graves tries to pass to full mount but McDonnell defends it.
Graves looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Graves wants to pass the guard but McDonnell is defending well. #SUB#
Graves 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. #T4#
Graves wants to take a breather but McDonnell is having none of it.
Graves passes to full mount!
The crowd growing excited in anticipation of a finish here! Right on cue, Graves cracks his opponent with a massive right hand that draws loud cheers!
McDonnell is wriggling around trying to escape.
Graves working McDonnell over with strikes here.
McDonnell wants to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Graves has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of McDonnell's face.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves landing strikes from the mount and McDonnell is in trouble!
McDonnell tries to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ger McDonnell's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Graves moves out of range of the strikes.
McDonnell throws the left hand but Graves avoids the punch easily.
Graves looks to land a right hand but McDonnell moved out of range.
A slow jab from McDonnell misses its intended target. #TD#
Graves scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Graves cracks McDonnell with a big right hand but McDonnell just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
McDonnell is looking for a sweep.
Graves lands some shots froms side control.#CUT#That has opened up Ger McDonnell's cut even more.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
McDonnell tries to bench press Graves off him but Graves keeps the position.
Graves advances to full mount.
Graves with shots to the head and body - McDonnell looks very uncomfortable down there. #T1#
Graves scores with a couple of good head shots there.
Graves sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.
Graves with a couple of short strikes.#CUT#The cut above Ger McDonnell's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
McDonnell tries to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Graves lands a couple of good shots and McDonnell has given up his back, trying to escape the position!#CUT#Ger McDonnell's cut is absolute horrible now. This looks like something out of a horror film with blood covering both fighters.

The referee calls the doctor in to look at Ger McDonnell's cut. Oh no, the doctor has called an end to the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:49 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves retains his lightweight title!
A less than humble Ernest Graves misjudged his post fight interview somewhat and came across a little too arrogant whilst trying to hype up his own abilities.

 

Event: OFK 117 - Shamrock Vs Volkov     
Date:   Aug 21, 2021
#R1##CL#
Plutov has taken the fight to the clinch.
Graves is stalling here.
Nice body punch from Graves - that landed with a thud.
Plutov blocks an uppercut.
Plutov lands a nice uppercut.
Graves tries for a takedown. No joy.
Plutov looks to throw an elbow but misses.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Graves.
Our sources have told us that Plutov has been working on his elbows in the gym.
Plutov misses with an elbow strike.
Graves is looking to control Plutov's arms but Plutov gets an underhook and turns him. Now Graves has his back to the cage.
Graves lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Graves gets through Plutov's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Plutov looks to throw an elbow but misses.
Plutov throws a nice elbow but it doesn't land.
Plutov is trying to maintain a safe position but Graves gets an underhook and turns Plutov into the cage.
Plutov creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses.
A nice glancing elbow lands by Plutov.
Plutov working aggressively here.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Plutov looks to throw an elbow but misses.
Plutov lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Graves or not. #TD2#
Graves has managed to pull guard. Let's see whether he can work an aggressive guard. It will also be interesting to see what tactics Plutov uses from the top position.
Graves looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T1#
Graves is still trying to improve position.#SUB2#
Graves has his foot on Plutov's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Plutov works his way back into a safe position though.
Plutov throwing strikes but missing. #SU#
Plutov gets to his feet. Graves looking to butt scoot but the ref puts an end to that. On your feet son! #TD2#
Graves feints and as Plutov raises his hands in defense, Graves changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.

Plutov uses the cage to get back to his feet.
Wasyl Plutov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#CL#
Plutov clinches up with Graves and pushes him back against the cage.
Plutov's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Plutov dictating the pace here, as the fighters clinch against the cage.
Graves blocks a body shot from Plutov.
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!
Nice body punch from Graves.
Graves misses with a punch on the inside.
Plutov has a couple of punches blocked by Graves.
Plutov working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.#T2#
Graves lands a right hand that snaps the head of Plutov backwards.
Graves lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Plutov or not.
Graves lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Plutov blocks an uppercut.
Graves fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Graves pushes Plutov back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Graves takes a shot to the head.
Graves scores with a nice hook to the head.
Plutov looking to throw knees to the head but Graves is blocking nicely.
Graves lands a shoulder strike.
Graves lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Plutov is trying to maintain a safe position but Graves gets an underhook and turns Plutov into the cage.
Graves managing to block the knees to the body from Plutov.
Plutov missing with knees to the body.
Plutov swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Graves scores with a shoulder strike.
Plutov tries to stall but Graves uses the opportunity to gain a better position.
Graves scores with a nice hook to the head.
Graves works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Plutov misses with a short punch on the inside. #T3#
Graves lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Plutov lands with a left to the head.
Plutov pushes off and fires off an elbow that misses, before clinching up again, against the cage.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Graves.
Plutov taking a breather.
Plutov is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Graves is keeping busy.
Graves tries to pull guard but Plutov won't allow it.
Wasyl Plutov has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Graves is working Plutov over against the cage.
A right hook to the body lands for Plutov.
Graves lands a hook that snaps the head of Plutov backwards.
Graves throws a head punch that misses.
Graves throws a punch but it's blocked by Plutov.
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Plutov's elbow.
Graves throws a punch but it's blocked by Plutov.
Plutov lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Graves misses with a body punch.
A head punch on the inside from Graves fails to land.
Plutov letting Graves take a breather here.#T4##TD2#
Graves has picked Plutov up - he's going for a ride! Graves dumps his opponent to the mat with a thud and settles into half guard.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Plutov pushes Graves off looking to stand but Graves dives back in and keeps control.
Plutov is in trouble now - Graves has advanced to mount!
Graves lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.
Graves thuds his fist into the canvas! Oooouch!
You get the feeling that Plutov really doesn't like being in this position too much.
Graves has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Plutov's face.
Graves won't let Plutov get back to his feet... He wants to keep the fight where it is for now.
Graves lands a big elbow.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Graves putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Graves with good strikes from the mount here!
Plutov'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.
Graves lands with some vicious ground and pound - can Plutov hang on?
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves 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#
Plutov swings and misses with a shot to the body
enabling Graves to counter with a crisp jab.
Plutov walks into a jab.
Graves moves away from the strike by Plutov.
Graves wants to clinch.#CL#
Plutov moves into the clinch.
Plutov blocking some punches.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Plutov lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Plutov tries a knee to the head but he's missed.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Graves.
Graves takes an elbow to the temple.
Graves working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Graves throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Plutovs head. #T1#
Plutov lands a nice elbow. #CUT#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves misses with a hook from the clinch.
The pace slowing considerably in the clinch, as Plutov takes a break from that fighting nonsense to think about the finer things in life.
Plutov is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Plutov blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Plutov digs a right hand underneath Graves's ribcage. Graves let out a lung full of air as it connected.
Graves misses with the head strike.
Graves has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves avoids a wild elbow strike from Plutov.
Plutov's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Graves blocks the elbow strike. #TD2#
Graves has double underhooks and is working for a body lock takedown. He's got it. The fighters land in half guard but Plutov regains guard immediately.
Graves is standing up over Plutov. Plutov looks to escape but Graves dives into side control.
Graves working the body and head with strikes.
Graves creates a bit of distance and throws down some hard shots.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Plutov is looking to work his way out of this bad position but Graves is controlling him well.
Ernest Graves has got the better of the ground game so far.#T2#
Graves trying to control the position but Plutov is working away.
Plutov tries to wriggle free to get back to his feet but he's given up his back! Oops.
Plutov is trying to get back to his feet but he's not managed it yet. #T3#
Plutov prevents Graves from getting a body triangle.
Graves is punishing Plutov with strikes - can he finish him?!
Graves lands a couple of good shots to his opponent's body and a final shot to the head. Good little attack there by Graves.
Plutov is covering up but some of the strikes from Graves are getting through and doing damage.
Plutov looking very determined here, making life difficult for Graves. #SUB2#
Plutov is displaying good submission defense - not really looking in danger of submitting to the rear naked choke at the moment. That could change in an instant of course if Graves gets his way!
Graves softening up his opponent with strikes here.
Plutov is trying to get back to his feet but he's not managed it yet.
Graves struggling to keep hold of the position.
Graves gets his hooks in and is throwing strikes.
Plutov is trying to get back to his feet but Graves has full control of the position and if anything, Plutov has just worked his way into a worse spot.
Graves has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.#T4#
Plutov looking very determined here, making life difficult for Graves. #SUB2#
Graves patiently working for the choke. Which fighter will keep their nerve here?
This has been an exciting period of action!
Plutov is trapped and Graves is scoring with shots to the head and body. #SUB2#
Graves is working hard for the rear naked choke here.
Graves scores with strikes from the back.
Plutov is trying to get back to his feet but he's not managed it yet.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R3#
Graves shoots in for a takedown but Plutov shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown. Plutov tries to sprawl out of it but Graves keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Plutov manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Plutov.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Graves.#CL#
Plutov closes the distance and pushes Graves back into the cage.
Graves lands a right hand.
Graves looking for a takedown.
Wasyl Plutov has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Plutov tries a body shot but Graves blocks it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
With the two fighters working up against the cage, Plutov just misses with a elbow thrown towards Graves's brow.
Graves drops down looking for an ankle pick but Plutov pulls his leg out and moves away.
Wasyl Plutov is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Plutov throws a series of punches but Graves moves out of range.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Sloppy strikes from Plutov. Those never looked like landing. #T1#
Graves connects with the punch.
Plutov lunges at Graves with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Graves's hand.
Plutov throws a hook but Graves avoids it easily.
Graves with the counter takedown but Plutov avoids it easily.
Plutov connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.#CL#
Plutov has managed to clinch.
Plutov prevents the takedown attempt.
Graves's corner are urging him to control the action in the clinch for a moment, rather than mount any serious offense. I'm sure the crowd appreciate those instructions... not.
Plutov stalling the fight.
Both fighters working to control the clinch.
Graves leaning his opponent against the cage.
Plutov trying to stall but Graves improves his position.
Plutov tries to land a knee to the head but Graves blocks with his arms. #T2#
Graves is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Plutov is keeping busy.#BC2#
Graves breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Plutov misses with a hook. Graves ducked under it nicely.
Graves walks into a straight right hand from Plutov.
A chopping leg kick lands by Plutov.
Graves blocks a jab.
Graves scores with a jab.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Plutov takes one on the chin but keeps coming. #CL#
Plutov fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Graves, pushing him back against the cage.
Plutov throws a nice elbow but it doesn't land.
Plutov is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Graves is keeping busy.
Plutov scores with an uppercut up the middle.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Graves.
Plutov lands on the inside with an uppercut. #T3#
Graves lands a right hand that snaps the head of Plutov backwards.
Plutov misses with a hook from the clinch.
Graves lands a left hand.
Graves blocks an elbow strike.
Graves goes for a takedown attempt but Plutov pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance. #CL#
Plutov clinches with his opponent.
Graves stalling.
Graves makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Plutov misses with an elbow over the top.
Plutov trying to land knees to the body.
Graves lands with a left to the head.
Plutov with an attempt at a knee that misses.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Graves.
Graves avoids the elbow strike from Plutov, against the cage.
Graves scores with a nice hook to the head.#T4#
A nice left hand lands by Graves.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Plutov is looking to control Graves's arms but Graves gets an underhook and turns him. Now Plutov has his back to the cage.
Graves misses with some punches.
Graves lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Plutov.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Graves blocks a body shot from Plutov.
Plutov's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Graves taking a breather.#TD2#
Graves jumps guard and drags Plutov to the mat. He's obviously going to be looking for submissions off his back.
Graves 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#
Plutov is staying active underneath Graves, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Plutov is trying to stand back up but Graves is controlling him
Graves takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Graves is nestled in close to Plutov, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close third round but Ernest Graves just about did enough to take it.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R4#
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Plutov.
Graves is looking for the big counter here.#CL#
Plutov rushes Graves and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Graves lands a hook that snaps the head of Plutov backwards.
Plutov misses with a hook to the ribs.
Graves scores with a shoulder strike.
Plutov blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Graves makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Come on Graves - let's have some action - none of this stalling nonsense.
Graves swings wildly with an uppercut but Plutov uses good head movement to avoid it. #BC2#
Graves breaks from the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
The crowd cheers as Plutov lands an impressive looking overhand right. Graves doesn't seem phased though.#CL#
Plutov gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Plutov misses with a short punch on the inside.
Plutov tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Graves avoids it.
Graves lands a left hand that snaps the head of Plutov backwards. #T1#
Plutov lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Graves lands with a good tight uppercut to the head. #TD2#
Graves gets a trip takedown into half guard.
Graves lands with a punch from half guard.
Graves seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Plutov pushes Graves off looking to stand but Graves dives back in and keeps control.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Plutov is defending well.
Plutov is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Graves scores with a couple of nice shots.
Graves works his way into full mount!
Graves postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Plutov looks a forlorn figure.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Plutov'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. #T2#
Graves looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
The crowd growing excited in anticipation of a finish here! Right on cue, Graves cracks his opponent with a massive right hand that draws loud cheers! #ROC2#Plutov is rocked!
Plutov'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.
Oh Plutov is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Graves with a couple of short strikes.
Plutov takes a big shot to the dome and his eyes have rolled back in his head! Graves's killer instinct has kicked in as he finishes the fight with more strikes. Impressive finish.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:49 of round 4, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves is the new lightweight champion!
Ernest Graves decided to go for the less than humble approach in his post fight interview, telling everyone how he is going to conquer the world. The crowd seemed to like it when really that sort of approach could have gone either way.

 

Event: OFK 111 - Plutov Vs Holloway     
Date:   Jul 31, 2021
#R1#
Graves throws a two punch combo that lands nicely.
Graves swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Twelve tries to move into range but Graves moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Graves wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Graves moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Graves is looking to clinch but Twelve is avoiding it.
Twelve swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Graves scores with a crisp jab that stopped Twelve in his tracks.
Graves lands a right hook to the body.
Twelve doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves lands a nice shot to the body.
A head kick misses from Twelve.
We've been hearing reports that Graves has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Twelve is just out of range.
Graves scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Graves dives in for a single leg takedown but Twelve sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Twelve with the Thai clinch. He's looking to land a big knee but he's not managed it this time.
A short body shot lands from Graves as the two fighters clinch.
Graves blocks the elbow strike.
Twelve pushes off an throws an elbow but Graves leans to the side and avoids it. We're back to clinching against the cage.
Graves pushes Twelve back against the cage and unloads with a body punch. #T1#
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Twelve's elbow.
Graves blocks an elbow strike.
Graves is leaning against Twelve and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Graves dodges an elbow strike from Twelve.
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Twelve's elbow.
Graves is working Twelve over against the cage.#TD#
Graves successfully pulls guard.
Twelve postures up in Graves's guard and throws a big left but Graves blocks it.
Graves trying to keep a closed guard but Twelve is proving a slippery customer. #SUB#
Graves looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Twelve won't allow Graves to sweep him here. #T2##SUB#
Graves looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Twelve has picked Graves up and slammed him! Graves can't keep hold of the triangle and Twelve manages to pass to side control!
Graves is looking for a sweep.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves is working hard here to advance position.
Twelve really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Graves. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Twelve in side control, throwing shots but Graves defends.
Graves managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Twelve.
You can see the frustration on Graves's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#T3#
Graves parries the strikes from Twelve easily there. Twelve is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Graves to escape.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Graves gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Graves wants to improve his position but Twelve is controlling well.
Graves works his way to full guard. Good work.
Graves looking for a sweep. Not yet Graves, not yet. #SUB#
Twelve is sitting in close to Graves's body. Graves has gone for a guillotine from the bottom. Oh damn, that looks pretty tight! Twelve is panicking - it looks like this one could be all over! Yes, Twelve is tapping! That was a very nice submission by Graves.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves decided to go for the less than humble approach in his post fight interview, telling everyone how he is going to conquer the world. The crowd seemed to like it when really that sort of approach could have gone either way.

 

Event: OFK 104 - Shamrock Vs Power     
Date:   Jul 07, 2021
#R1#
A big left from Plutov misses.
Plutov throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Plutov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves slips a jab and a cross from Plutov.
We've been hearing reports that Graves has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Plutov is just out of range.
Plutov misses with a low kick.
A left lands for Graves.
Plutov misses the jab.
Plutov walks into a jab.
Graves changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Plutov misses the jab.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Plutov moves away.
Plutov throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves jabs Plutov right on the nose. Plutov blinks but takes it well.
Plutov takes a body punch but keeps moving.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Plutov fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Graves manages to avoid it.#CL#
Plutov tries to keep at a distance but Graves has taken the fight into the clinch.
Graves is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Plutov pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Graves tries to throw a body punch but Plutov avoids it by throwing Graves back against the cage.
Plutov swings wildly with an uppercut but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it. #T1#
Graves blocks a body shot from Plutov.
Graves managing to block the knees to the body from Plutov.
Plutov misses with some punches.
Plutov avoiding damage. #BC#
Graves breaks the clinch.
Plutov takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Graves is looking to wear down Plutov with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Graves blocks a jab.
Graves defending well as Plutov loads up on a big left hand.
Graves slips a jab and a cross from Plutov.
Left hook, right uppercut from Plutov.
Graves scores with a body shot.
Graves lands with a good body shot.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Plutov.
Graves works the jab nicely.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Plutov throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.
A telegraphed right hand from Plutov misses the target.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves checks the leg kick.#T2#
Plutov throws the left hand but Graves avoids the punch easily.
Plutov takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Plutov scores with a jab to the head.
Graves scores with a hook to the body. Plutov takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves punishes Plutov's body with a nice straight punch.
Plutov has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.
Plutov misses with a looping right.
Good standup being displayed there by Plutov as he connects with a hook.
Plutov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Plutov.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Plutov manages to avoid it.
Graves scores with a jab to the head.
Plutov stuffs the takedown.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Plutov moves away.
The crowd cheers as Plutov lands an impressive looking overhand right. Graves doesn't seem phased though.
Plutov looks to throw the jab but Graves is out of range.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses. #CL2#
Plutov closes the distance and clinches.
Graves lands with a right to the head. #T3#
Graves is leaning against Plutov and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Graves can't find room to land a body shot as Plutov controls the action. #TD#
Graves turns his hips and lands a very nice judo throw into side control!
Graves tries to advance to mount but Plutov denies him.
Plutov is working to avoid the ground and pound but Graves connects with a decent elbow.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Plutov is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Graves looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Plutov is avoiding damage well.
Plutov is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Graves asserts his dominance and retains side control.
Graves lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Plutov down. #T4#
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Plutov is pushing Graves's head away, looking to escape. Graves manages to hold on to the position though.
Graves controls the position.
Plutov is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Graves has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Graves working the head with strikes.
Graves sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Plutov is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Graves tries to move into full mount but can't pass Plutov's legs.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Plutov is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.
Graves trying to control the action but Plutov is working from the bottom.
Graves grinds an elbow into Plutov's temple.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Plutov pushes Graves away and creates a bit of space to escape. He's almost out here... but no, Graves gets a good hold of his legs and remains firmly in side control.
Graves wants to control but Plutov is keeping him busy.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
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#
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Plutov moves away.
Wasyl Plutov is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Graves throws a sloppy body shot
and Plutov counters with a good low kick that Graves was not able to check.
Plutov scores with a nice right hand.
Graves slips under a jab from Plutov.
Plutov with a jab.
Graves showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Plutov.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Plutov moves into range and throws a combination. A nice jab followed by a hook to the body.
Graves throws a body punch but Plutov moves out of range.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Plutov is just out of range.
Plutov lunges at Graves with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Graves's hand.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Plutov swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Graves swings for the body but Plutov moves out of range.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Plutov was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Plutov moves away.
A nice side step and Plutov releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Graves showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Plutov.
Graves bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.#T1#
Graves misses with the combination. #TD#
Graves closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.

Plutov bucks up and manages to escape back to his feet!
Graves dips down and scores with a jab to the body.#TD#
Graves is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Plutov's 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!
Plutov is trying to stand.
Graves is trying to control. Plutov wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Plutov taking some punishment here, with Graves in his half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Plutov does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Graves lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Plutov pushes Graves off looking to stand but Graves dives back in and keeps control. #T2#
Graves tries to pass the half guard into mount. Plutov knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Plutov is staying active underneath Graves, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Graves not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Graves lands with a punch from half guard.
Plutov tries to kick Graves off but Graves keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
Graves is nestled in close to Plutov, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but Plutov is holding on for dear life with his legs. #ES2#
Plutov has managed to escape just enough to sneak back to his feet but Graves is on him like a limpet, forcing Plutov back against the cage.
Graves scores with a nice hook to the head.
Graves misses with some punches.
Graves tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Graves fails to pull guard. #T3#
Plutov lands a left hand that snaps the head of Graves backwards.
Plutov is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Graves is keeping busy.
Graves tries to pull guard but Plutov holds him up against the cage and eventually Graves drops back down to his feet.
Graves misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Plutov creates a bit of space for himself and sneaks an elbow through Graves's defenses. #CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Plutov scores a nice knee to the body.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Graves jumps guard but Plutov turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Plutov lands with a short shot to the head.
Plutov struggles to land a body shot inside as Graves controls his hands.
Stalling in the clinch from Graves.
Graves throws a head punch that misses.
Plutov tries to land a knee to the head but Graves blocks with his arms.
Graves scores with a shoulder strike.
Graves working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Graves blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Graves scores with a shoulder strike.
Graves misses with a hook to the ribs. #T4#
Graves wants a takedown.
Kneeeeees! The crowd are calling for knees to the body. Plutov obliges.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
A body shot lands from Plutov.
Plutov lands a glancing elbow in the clinch.
Plutov tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Plutov lands a knee to the body.
Plutov blocking some punches.
Plutov with the Thai clinch, lands a knee to the head.
Graves tries to pull guard but Plutov holds him up against the cage and eventually Graves drops back down to his feet.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Graves creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Graves throws a head punch that misses.
Graves tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Plutov misses with a punch to the body.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Nice elbow from Plutov.
Plutov lands a damaging elbow.
Graves tries a body shot but Plutov blocks it.
Graves blocks a knee to the body. He'll have a nicely bruised forearm in the morning.
Graves will no doubt start fighting again in a minute but for now he's just having a little rest, leaning Plutov up against the cage.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Wasyl Plutov showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R3#
Graves takes a swing at Plutov's ribcage but misses.
Graves fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Ernest Graves is winning the standup battle so far.
Graves keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Plutov.
Graves throws a predictable looking body shot
enabling Plutov to counter with a crisp jab.
Plutov moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.#ROC2#Graves is rocked!
Danga de danga de dang - Plutov scores with a four punch combination!
Oh Graves is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
It's a brutal combination of punches from Plutov! Graves is backing up but he can't get away as Plutov lands with one final shot to the jaw that drops Graves and ends the fight. Great knockout.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:24 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Punches). Wasyl Plutov!
Wasyl Plutov is the new lightweight champion!

 

Event: OFK 98 - Dokov Vs Kriel     
Date:   Jun 16, 2021
#R1##CL#
Graves clinches up with The Zealot and pushes him back against the cage.
Graves lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Graves lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of The Zealot backwards.
The Zealot is a painfully thin specimen of a man. You do wonder whether a good body kick would snap him clean in two.
Graves lands a body punch.
A left hand lands to the body for Graves.
The Zealot can't find room to land a body shot as Graves controls the action.
A short right from Graves on the inside.
Graves lands a body punch. #TD#
Graves pulls guard.
Graves looking for a sweep. Not yet Graves, not yet. #SUB#
Graves is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Graves looking for a sweep. Not yet Graves, not yet. #SUB#
Graves looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
The Zealot stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.
Graves might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Graves lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR#
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. The Zealot swivels though and keeps the full guard. #T1#
The Zealot can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Graves controls the pace.
The Zealot keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
The Zealot looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
We've been hearing that Graves has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Graves wants to pass the guard but The Zealot is keeping the position.
Graves in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Graves throwing strikes but missing.
The Zealot keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Graves in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Graves sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed The Zealot's guard.
Graves not landing any meaningful shots this time.
The Zealot looks like he's trying to stand up.
Graves is looking to advance position but The Zealot won't allow it.
Graves 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.
Graves is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for The Zealot!
Graves punching from mount but The Zealot doing a good job of avoiding damage. #T3#
Graves lands a big shot there that rocks The Zealot but he's holding on and managing to survive for now.
Graves landing shots from mount.
The Zealot is in a horrible position here. Graves smacks him with another shot as he tries to escape the position.
Graves lands a big shot to the head and The Zealot winces in pain. He's tapped out due to strikes!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:36 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves is the new lightweight champion!
Ernest Graves bigged himself up after the win. The crowd seemed to love it.

 

Event: SYN 798 Conor vs. Maluga 6     
Date:   May 16, 2021
#R1##TD2#
Nakano gets caught flat footed, as Graves shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Nakano pulls Graves in close to prevent any damage.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nakano's ground tactics aren't going to win him many fans. Let's hope he's got fireworks for us if he gets back to his feet because he's not doing much on the ground.
Graves landing some decent shots from guard.
Graves wants to control from the top but Nakano keeps moving.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Graves accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nakano working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Graves.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Graves scoring with punches to the head and body. #T1#
Graves wants to pass the guard but Nakano is keeping the position.
Graves postures up in Nakano's guard and throws a big left but Nakano blocks it.
Graves postures up and lands a big shot to Nakano's brow.
Graves passes Nakano's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Graves missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Graves not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Graves trying to control from half guard but Nakano is working away.
Graves lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Graves throws a strike but Nakano avoids it easily and moves to full guard.
Graves working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #T2#
Graves passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Graves trying to control the position but Nakano is working away. #SUB2#
Graves working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
Graves throwing strikes but Nakano manages to buck up and roll into a nice reversal - now he's on top in side control!
Graves 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.
Nakano is moving around in side control but his primary objective seems to be to maintain the position.
Graves manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Graves wants to improve his position but Nakano is controlling well. #T3#
Nakano controlling the action here.
Graves tries to roll over but Nakano keeps him under control.#SUB2#
Graves looking for submissions off his back.
Nakano perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there. #T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Nakano looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Still in half guard, Nakano seems content to control.
Graves has a hand on Nakano's thigh, trying to get back to full guard. Nakano takes advantage of the position though and mounts him!
Nakano trying to control but Graves is having none of it.
Graves tries to reverse the position but Nakano maintains control.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
Graves stands and throws Nakano's legs to the side, diving into side control.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Nakano wants to land a leg kick but Graves is out of range.
Graves with a poor takedown
and Nakano counters with an outside leg kick.
Nice sprawl there from Nakano as Graves shoots in.
Graves shoots for a takedown but Nakano saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Naoyuki Nakano has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Graves.
Graves takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Graves has a nice red mark on his side after a thudding body kick by Nakano.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown but Nakano manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Graves's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Nakano looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Graves stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Nakano.
Graves shoots in but no luck this time.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Nakano throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nakano lands with a thumping leg kick.
Nakano motions for Graves to come forward. Nakano throws a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Nakano fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Graves.
Graves shoots in and drives through. Nakano sprawls well.
Nakano feints and then cracks Graves's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Graves down.
Graves checks a leg kick.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Nakano scores with a leg kick. #T1#
Nakano scores with a kick to the body.
Graves checks the leg kick.
Nakano goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Nakano tries to land a leg kick but Graves saw it coming and moves away.
Nakano looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Nakano throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Nakano wants to slow Graves down by chopping away at his legs.
Nakano misses with a body kick.
Nakano throws a low kick, looking for Graves's leg but Graves calmly moves out of range.
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves has a takedown stuffed.
Nakano will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Graves! But no joy.
Graves fails with the takedown
and Nakano counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
A nice leg kick from Nakano, right into the meat of the thigh.
Nakano thumps Graves with a low kick.
Graves with a hook.#T2#
Graves goes for a double leg but Nakano avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Nakano continues to drive forward.
Nakano scoring well with a low kick there.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nakano throws a quick head kick that skims the top of Graves's head.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves fails with the takedown.
Graves shoots for a takedown but Nakano saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Nakano looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Graves is breathing heavily.
Graves looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Nakano is fending him off so far but Graves persists. Nope, Nakano circles away and we're back to standing.
No luck for Graves with that takedown attempt.
Graves shoots in and drives through. Nakano sprawls well.
Nakano throws a quick counter head kick but Graves was just out of range.
Nakano thuds a left hand into Graves's body.
Nakano throws a front kick that sends Graves stumbling back into the cage.
Nakano looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Nakano fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Nakano connects with a high kick.
Graves fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Graves takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there. #T3#
Nakano fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Graves has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Nakano uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.#TD2#
Graves is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Nakano's half guard.
Graves thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Nakano's head.
Ernest Graves has got the better of the ground game so far.
Graves is trying to control the action in half guard but Nakano is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Graves tries to pass the half guard into mount. Nakano knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Nakano is looking to control Graves's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Nakano avoid being mounted?
Graves with the ground and pound but Nakano uses the opportunity to regain guard.
Graves is fighting to break Nakano's control of his arms but Nakano is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
Nakano keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass. #T4#
Graves is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Nakano is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Graves can do to turn this around?#ES#
Nakano is edging up against the cage. He's using the cage to get back to his feet. Nice work there - the fighters are clinched.
Nakano swings away with an uppercut that misses.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!#BC#
Nakano breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Nakano is looking to wear down Graves with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Graves shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Nakano dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Graves. That did some damage!
Nice shot by Nakano.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Graves.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Naoyuki Nakano dominated that second round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Nakano swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Graves looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Graves misses with a takedown attempt - Nakano sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Nakano bobs and weaves and then throws a good body kick.
Nakano is looking to chop away at Graves's legs.
Nakano connects with a body shot.#TD2#
Graves dives in and scores a takedown into Nakano's guard.

Nakano wriggles free and stands up.
Graves's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.
Graves fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Graves shoots in for a double leg but Nakano sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Naoyuki Nakano has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Graves takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Nakano fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Graves has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Nakano.
That kick from Nakano tenderised Graves's leg. Graves is trying to keep his angry face on.
Nakano throws out a leg kick but Graves moves out of range and Nakano only half commits.
Graves dives in and grabs Nakano's left leg, looking for a takedown. Nakano pushes down on Graves's head and hops out.
Nakano is looking to counter with a body kick.#T1#
Nakano connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Nakano fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Graves.
Nakano lands a nice looking kick to the body. Graves takes a step back to recover.
Graves on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Nakano. Nakano obviously looking to wear him down.
Nakano scoring well with a low kick there.
Graves misses with a body punch
and Nakano counters with an inside leg kick.
An inside leg kick lands from Nakano.
Nakano goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Graves fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Nakano avoids it really well and circles away.
Nakano throws a low kick but Graves avoids it.
Graves shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Nakano sprawls well. Nakano wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Graves gets slowly back to his feet.
Graves darts in looking for a takedown but Nakano gets double underhooks and turns Graves into the cage. #T2#
Graves changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Nakano tries to avoid it but Graves manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Nakano to the ground. Nakano escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Naoyuki Nakano is winning the standup battle so far.
Graves takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie.
Nakano connects with an inside leg kick.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nakano stuffs the takedown.
A slapping leg kick lands for Nakano.
Nakano connects with a solid leg kick.
Some wild striking there from Nakano.
Nakano throws a leg kick which misses Graves's front leg but catches the back leg as Graves tries to avoid it.
Graves shoots in but no luck this time.
Nakano throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
Nakano buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Nakano lands a nice looking kick to the body. Graves takes a step back to recover.
Graves has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Nakano finds it's way round the side to connect with Graves's head.
Graves misses with a takedown attempt - Nakano sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.#T3#
Graves misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Graves has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Nakano.
Graves will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Nakano lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Graves misses with a takedown
and Nakano counters with a leg kick that reverborates around the arena.
Graves has developed a nice purple lump on his ribcage, as a result of some heavy body kicks from Nakano.
Nakano is looking to slow Graves down with leg kicks.
Nakano lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Nakano lands a leg kick that knocks Graves off balance momentarily.
Nakano turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Nakano throws a good cross that connects.
Graves shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Nakano sprawls well. Nakano wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Graves gets slowly back to his feet.
Graves throws a right and a left that Nakano avoids nicely. #T4#
Nakano pushes Graves away with a front kick.
Nakano lands with a kick to the ribs.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
A thudding body kick lands there by Nakano!
Nakano swings away with a leg kick that misses.
An inside leg kick lands from Nakano.
Graves misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Nakano thinks about countering with a body kick.
Nakano scores with a jab to the head.
Graves shoots for a double leg takedown but Nakano sprawls well. He's pushed Graves's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Nakano lands a leg kick that knocks Graves off balance momentarily.
A nice inside leg kick there by Nakano. That's going to slow Graves down.
Nakano throws a chopping leg kick but Graves manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Nakano with a nice calf kick.
An inside leg kick lands from Nakano.
Graves shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Nakano counters with a good low kick that Graves was not able to check.

And that's the end of the fight!
Naoyuki Nakano showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Nakano 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 James Atkins scores the fight 29:27
Judge James Glass scores the fight 29:27
Judge Paul Tew scores the fight 29:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Naoyuki Nakano!

Naoyuki Nakano managed to slip a mention for his sponsors, Urban Fighter, into his post fight interview.

 

Event: Syn Kerr vs Zulu     
Date:   Apr 18, 2021
#R1##TD2#
Graves closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Tertelgte did well to prevent Graves getting side control.#SUB2#
Graves is working for a submission of some sort.
Tertelgte is holding on to half guard well.
Graves looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
We've been hearing good reports from Tertelgte'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.
Graves is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tertelgte regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Graves.
Graves won't allow Tertelgte to get back to his feet. #T1#
Graves postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Tertelgte bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Graves's guard. #REVR#
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves working a defensive guard here.
Graves looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Graves controls Tertelgte momentarily but Tertelgte frees himself. #SUB2#
Graves looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Tertelgte passes into half guard.
Graves has a hand on Tertelgte's thigh, trying to get back to full guard. Tertelgte takes advantage of the position though and mounts him!
Graves is trying desperately to improve position.#T2#
Graves is still trying to improve position.
Tertelgte controlling the pace for now.
Graves really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Graves manages to regain half guard. Good work.
Graves 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.
Tertelgte prevents Graves from improving his position.
Well, if Tertelgte 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.
Graves slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.#T3#
Graves 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#
Graves is looking for a kimura but Tertelgte is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Graves to get the leverage. #SUB2#
Graves is working for a kimura but Tertelgte is defending it quite comfortably. #SUB2#
Graves is working for a submission of some sort.
Tertelgte is trying to maintain the position but Graves is very close to passing his half guard.#T4#
Graves stalling away here and it's allowed Tertelgte to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
Tertelgte keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Tertelgte moves to clinch but Graves breaks away
and Graves counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Tertelgte pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Tertelgte lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Graves at a distance.
Tertelgte keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Graves.
Graves darts in looking for a takedown but Tertelgte gets double underhooks and turns Graves into the cage.
Graves has his takedown stuffed
and Tertelgte counters with a nice body shot.
Tertelgte misses with a body kick.
Tertelgte misses with an uppercut. Graves saw that one coming.
Graves dives in for a single leg takedown but Tertelgte sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Ernie Tertelgte has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tertelgte walks into a stiff left hand from Graves.
Tertelgte scores with a spinning back kick!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Tertelgte slaps away a takedown attempt from Graves, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Tertelgte throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Graves on the side of the head. #CUT#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.#T1#
Graves fails with a takedown attempt.
Graves shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Tertelgte pinned against the cage. Tertelgte gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Tertelgte seemed to be looking to counter by closing the distance.
Graves on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there. #ROC#Graves is rocked!
Graves looks up at the clock. Bad move! Tertelgte lands a right hand from hell, dropping Graves. Tertelgte pounces and finishes the fight with a flurry of punches and elbows.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:46 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernie Tertelgte!
A relieved looking Ernie Tertelgte thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

 

Event: Syn Maluga vs Piano 2     
Date:   Mar 21, 2021
#R1##TD2#
Graves throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. C K tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Graves is in C K's guard.
Graves working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of C K's head.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. C K is keeping the position for now.
Graves stopping the sweep attempt from C K.
C K is in a tricky position. We've heard reports from his gym mates at Roosters Coop that he's been drilling escapes, so let's see if he can get back to his feet.
Graves sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed C K's guard.
Graves passes to full mount!
C K is trying desperately to improve position.
C K wants to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves with shots to the head and body - C K looks very uncomfortable down there.
C K is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Graves wants to take his opponent's back but he's not managed it.
Graves looking to control but C K is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
C K is trying to escape the mount.
C K is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
C K throwing punches from his back but nothing is landing. #T1#
Graves moves to the back. #SUB2#
Graves is looking to finish the fight by rear naked choke. C K knows exactly what he's got planned though, so he's defending well. Maybe a few strikes would soften C K for a finish. #SUB2#
C K is staying cool under pressure, defending well against the rear naked choke attempt from his opponent. #SUB2#
Graves 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, C K has freed his hand and lives to survive another… well, another couple of seconds at least!
Graves controlling well, preventing C K from escaping the position. #SUB2#
Graves looking to break C K's wrist control so he can sink in the choke. C K remaining controlled and patient though - he really has to keep calm otherwise Graves will wrap this one up with the rear naked choke!
C K trying to control but not successfully.
C K is taking damage to the body and head.
Graves keeps control of the position as C K tries to break free. #T2#
C K trying to control but he's just got himself in more trouble.
C K is keeping busy. #SUB2#
Graves is staying calm and holding on to the back position, whilst working on a rear naked choke. C K is defending well though. Graves let's go of the attempt for now.
C K trying to control the hands but Graves won't let him.
Graves lands with a hammerfist to the side of C K's head.
Well, with Graves on his back, surely it's only a matter of time before C K is tapping out... Can he escape the position?
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
C K is in bad spot here. #SUB2#
Graves tightening his grip on C K, looking for the choke.
Graves lands with a hammerfist to the side of C K's head.#SUB2#
Graves is working really hard to secure the rear naked choke. C K defends successfully for a significant amount of time. Both fighters are looking very determined.
Both fighters have adopted an aggressive gameplan on the ground!
C K is keeping busy. #T3#
C K is defending well here and trying to improve his position.
Graves is throwing strikes from the back here. Oh that last one was to the back of the head. Graves gets a warning from the referee. He throws another strike to the back of the head straight away though and the referee has seen enough. He breaks up the two fighters and stands them back up. Graves gets a real talking to here and is lucky not to get a point deducted. Graves apologises and we restart here on the feet.
Graves darts in looking for a takedown but C K gets double underhooks and turns Graves into the cage. #TD2#
Graves 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.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #SUB#
C K has his foot on Graves's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Graves works his way back into a safe position though.
Graves passes easily into side control. Nice work.
C K struggling a bit here.
C K tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Graves trying to control the action but C K is working from the bottom.
Graves lands a decent elbow from side control. #T4#
Graves cracks C K with a big right hand but C K just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
C K is looking for a sweep.
Graves tries to move into full mount but can't pass C K's legs.
Graves is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.#SUB2#
Graves tries for a kimura but C K is defending well.
Graves tries to move to mount but C K blocks the move with his legs.
Graves working away.
Graves tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves trying to control the action but C K is working from the bottom.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Graves scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Sloppy strikes from C K. Those never looked like landing.
Graves fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Graves dives in for a single leg takedown but C K sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
C K misses with the combination.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown. C K tries to sprawl out of it but Graves keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. C K manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Louis C K has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
No joy there for C K, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
No joy there for C K, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
C K throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.#TD2#
Graves throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. C K was covering up waiting for the punch and Graves finishes the takedown easily into guard.
C K throwing strikes off his back to little effect. #SUB#
C K throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #T1#
Graves passes into half guard.
C K wants to get back to full guard.
Graves is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for C K!
Graves wants to control the pace but C K is squirming around nicely.
Graves punishing his opponent with strikes.
Graves takes C K's back. Could be looking for a rear naked choke here - either way, C K is in trouble.
Graves tries to keep control of the position but C K is staying busy.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves not allowing C K to control his hands. #SUB2#
Graves is working for the rear naked choke. He has one arm under the chin but C K has hold of the other arm. A bit of a stalemate here.
Graves punishes C K with strikes from the back mount. #T2##SUB2#
Graves patiently working for the choke. Which fighter will keep their nerve here?
C K turns into Graves and is now in his guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#SUB2#
Graves throws his legs up looking for a submission but C K uses it to pass to side control.
C K throwing shots but missing, from side control.
C K scoring with punches and elbows.
Graves has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.
C K is looking to take a break and control but Graves is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Graves tries to get to full guard but C K has control of the leg.
Graves trying to control but C K postures up.
C K scores with a couple of good hammerfists.#T3#
Graves is looking to improve his position.
C K sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Graves defending well though.
The fighters are battling for position here. Graves manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
C K trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but C K has passed into side control.
Graves gets back to half guard.#SUB2#
Graves looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#T4#
C K missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Graves is looking to improve his position.
C K will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Graves slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
C K throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Graves works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Graves is still trying to improve position.
C K throws a big elbow that misses.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Ernest Graves will probably get the nod - 10:9.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. So, we enter the final round. Let's see if either fighter can bring us a finish, or whether we're going to the judges scorecards.#R3#
Graves shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
C K leaves Graves with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.#TD2#
Graves shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Graves showed some decent athleticism there. #SUB2#
C K is defending against the submission attempts here by Graves.
C K has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Graves is working away from the top position though.
C K misses with some strikes from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
C K gets full guard.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. C K swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves advances position into side control!
C K stops Graves from passing to mount. #T1#
C K can't do much from the bottom here.
Graves in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
C K gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there!
C K tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Ernest Graves has got the better of the ground game so far.
Graves postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. C K looks a forlorn figure.
C K is trying to escape the mount.
C K is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
Graves scores with a couple of good head shots there. #SUB2#
Graves looking for a guillotine from mount but C K is having none of it.
C K swinging wildly from the bottom but he's not landing.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Graves working his ground and pound in the gym. So far it seems to be working well.
Graves trying to control but C K is having none of it. #T2#
C K wants to control but Graves is having none of it.#SUB2#
Graves has hold of C K's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and C K manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger. #SUB2#
Graves wants to finish this one by submission but C K is holding onto his waist, trying to prevent any attacks from Graves.
C K wants to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Graves with some aggressive grappling here, looking for the finish.
C K bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#T3#
Graves wants to sweep here but C K controlling him for the moment.
Graves keeps trying to improve his position.
C K is pushing down on Graves's leg trying to pass to half guard. Graves is fighting to maintain full guard but C K has managed to sneak the leg through.
C K sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Graves defending well though.
Graves trying to hold on to C K's head to control him but C K postures up.
C K wants to free his trapped foot but Graves is holding on for dear life with his legs.
C K sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Graves defending well though. #T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Graves has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. C K is working away from the top position though.
Graves tries to get to full guard but C K has control of the leg.
Graves is looking to get full guard. It looks like he might be successful but at the last minute C K jumps into side control!
Graves is not content to let C K control the position.
Louis C K has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Graves is trying to improve his position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Ernest Graves is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 26:30
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 26:30
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 26:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

After the fight, Ernest Graves was humble in paying tribute to his opponent but made it clear he wants to go on to bigger and better things. It seemed to go down well with the crowd who cheered him loudly.

 

Event: Syn Pulkkinen vs Barbarian     
Date:   Feb 20, 2021
#R1#
Whitaker jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Whitaker with a jab.#TD#
Graves gets the takedown into side control.
Graves is trying to move to mount but Whitaker reverses beautifully and ends up in Graves's guard.
Whitaker wanted to stand there but Graves had control of the position.
Graves is looking to sweep but instead, Whitaker has passed into half guard.
Graves wants to improve his position but Whitaker is controlling well.
Graves is working hard here to advance position.
Graves trying to hold on to Whitaker 's head to control him but Whitaker postures up. #T1#
Graves wants to get back to full guard.#SUB#
Graves is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Whitaker pulls his head out easily.
Graves works his way to full guard. Good work.#SUB#
Graves escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Whitaker gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Graves wants to sweep here but Whitaker controlling him for the moment. #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.
Whitaker tries to stand but Graves is controlling from the bottom. #SUB#
Graves has an omoplata and is looking to use it perhaps as a submission or perhaps to transition. Whitaker is in a bit of discomfort here, but he's managed to free himself and has dived into side control! That didn't work out too well for Graves.#SU2#
Whitaker decides to take the fight back to the feet. #TD#
Graves decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
Graves is figuring out what he wants to do next.#SUB#
Graves is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Whitaker has managed to free his arm - good work. #T3#
Whitaker is holding on to half guard well.
Graves is looking for the mount but instead finds himself back in full guard.
Graves works a leg free and moves into half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Whitaker manages to get to full guard.
Graves wants to control from the top but Whitaker keeps moving. #T4#
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Whitaker looking to hit a scissor sweep but Graves is one step ahead there.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Whitaker is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
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#
Graves keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Whitaker .
Whitaker misses with a hook.
Whitaker uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Graves has time to react.#TD#
Graves closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Whitaker 's guard.
Whitaker tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Whitaker is keeping the position for now.
Graves looking to sit in guard and control but Whitaker gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB#
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Whitaker must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SU2#
Whitaker stands and steps away. Graves gets to his feet too and we're back to the striking game. #T1#
Graves on the wrong end of a nice hook.#TD#
Graves closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Whitaker 's guard.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Whitaker is keeping the position for now.
Whitaker is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves lands a couple of elbows.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Whitaker swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Whitaker keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Whitaker is keeping the position.#T2#
Whitaker controlling the position.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Whitaker is retaining full guard.
Graves preventing the sweep.
Whitaker seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
Graves trying to control but Whitaker is working from the bottom. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Roy Whitaker seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#TD#
Graves is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Whitaker 's half guard.
Graves throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage. #T3#
Graves is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
Graves has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Graves trying to control but Whitaker is having none of it.
Whitaker blocking the ground and pound.
Graves fails to move to back control.
Graves misses with a series of strikes from mount. He'll no doubt be working on his ground and pound when he gets back to the gym.
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Whitaker is looking to escape.
Whitaker 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.#T4#
Graves wants to pass to mount but Whitaker is defending the position.
Graves throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Graves tries to pass to full mount but Whitaker defends it.
Graves throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Graves lands strikes from half guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB#
Graves is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Whitaker defends it well.
Whitaker keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
Graves moves forwards but Whitaker connects with a nice, crisp jab.#TD#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Whitaker enables Graves to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Whitaker manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Graves with a flurry of punches that miss.
Graves trying to pass the guard. He's being very persistent here but Whitaker manages to land a sweep and now he's on top! #REVB#
Whitaker stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.
Graves is trying to keep Whitaker in close.
Graves looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Whitaker puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves is looking for a sweep. Whitaker is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Whitaker is trying to get back to his feet now but his leg is trapped.
Graves wants to get back to full guard but Whitaker has mounted him!#T1#
Graves regains half guard.
Graves is trying to get back to full guard.
Whitaker tries to stand but can't do so whilst Graves controls his leg.
Graves is looking to get back to full guard here but Whitaker has managed to pass to side control instead.
A control attempt from Graves but he's now mounted!
Graves gets back to half guard.#T2#
Graves tries to roll over but Whitaker keeps him under control.
Whitaker tries to stand but his hand is stuck under Graves.
Graves tries to get to full guard but Whitaker has control of the leg. #SU2#
Whitaker escapes and gets back to his feet. #TD#
Graves feints and as Whitaker raises his hands in defense, Graves changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Graves is looking to pass into half guard but Whitaker pushes him away with his feet and jumps on top - now Whitaker is in guard.#REVB#
Graves looking to hit a scissor sweep but Whitaker is one step ahead there. #T3##SUB#
Whitaker avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Whitaker tries to stand but Graves is controlling from the bottom.
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Graves bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Whitaker 's guard. #REVR#
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Graves trying to control but Whitaker is working from the bottom. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Whitaker is keeping the position.
Graves advances position into side control!
Graves trying to control the action but Whitaker is working from the bottom.
Graves creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Whitaker sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Whitaker trying to control but Graves flips him over like a cheap hooker and has his back!
Roy Whitaker has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Ernest Graves is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Whitaker is in bad spot here.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Kenichi Hosakawa scores the fight 30:27
Judge Sosuke Kotani scores the fight 30:27
Judge Shigeki Fujiwara scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

Ernest Graves spent the whole post fight interview bigging himself up. It didn't go down that well with the fans after a while as they thought it was a bit arrogant.

 

Event: SYN 776 Piano vs Barbarian     
Date:   Jan 24, 2021
#R1#
Graves avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Starman pushes forward with a 1-2 combination that forces Graves back to the cage. Starman follows up with a solid lead hook to the liver.
Graves will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Starman throws a series of punches but Graves avoids them all with ease.
Graves shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Starman but Starman pushes him off and we're back to square one.#TD2#
Graves shoots in and bounces Starman off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
Starman keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Starman has his hands on Graves's head, controlling the position.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Starman is keeping the position for now. #T1#
Graves works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but Starman is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Graves is still trying to improve position.
Starman controlling the leg, holding on to half guard. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Graves is pressing down on Starman's thigh, looking to free his foot. Starman is holding on for now. #SUB#
Graves goes for a cartwheel guard pass here but Starman does a handstand and catches Graves in mid air with a triangle! Could it be? It is! It's the triple decker pecker wrecker! The fighters land on the ground with Starman on top - Graves is already out from the submission! Starman gives Graves's pecker the obligatory post submission twist and this one is aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaall over! Are you kidding me! That is world class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. That guy is my hero!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:37 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (TDPW) . John Starman!
Our winner, John Starman, 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: SYN 769     
Date:   Jan 02, 2021
#R1#
Graves tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Kurosaki swivels and escapes.
Graves shoots in for a double leg but Kurosaki sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Kurosaki leaves Graves with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves is trying hard to land a takedown here. Kurosaki sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Good standup being displayed there by Kurosaki as he connects with a hook.#CUT2#It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Kurosaki stuffs the takedown attempt from Graves. Graves gets slowly back to his feet.
Kurosaki looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Graves throws a series of punches but Kurosaki moves out of range.
Graves has been working on his balance at Tōshi, so perhaps that has help him stuff some of the takedown attempts by Kurosaki.
Graves scores with a nice strike.
Kurosaki tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Kurosaki lands a jab.#ROC2#Graves is rocked!
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Kurosaki steps into range and unloads a brutal right left combo! Graves is out on his feet! Kurosaki sets himself and nearly takes Graves's head off with a straight right, sending him crashing to the mat! Wow, that was nasty... but awesome! Wooo!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:44 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Akio Kurosaki!
Akio Kurosaki tried to hype himself up post fight but didn't word it too well and it ended up with him sounding like a bit of a tool.

 

Event: Syn 765     
Date:   Dec 13, 2020
#R1##TD#
Graves looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Hero!
Hero sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Graves prevents Hero from improving his position.
Hero wants to get back to full guard but Graves has passed into side control.
Hero tries to improve position but can't.
Hero is trying to control Graves's posture but Graves avoids it.
Hero is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Hero keeps working.
Hero is looking for a sweep.
Hero manages to land a sweep and he's now on top! Lovely Jiu Jitsu!#T1#
Graves tries to roll over but Hero keeps him under control.
Graves gets full guard.
Hero trying to control but Graves is working from the bottom.
Hero preventing the sweep.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Graves is on top in guard. #REVR#
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Hero keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully. #SUB2#
Hero looking for a guillotine here but Graves defends easily.
Graves stopping the sweep attempt from Hero.#T2#
Hero trying to keep a closed guard but Graves is proving a slippery customer.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Hero is keeping the position.
Graves postures up.
Graves stands and throws Hero's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Graves tries to move to mount but Hero blocks the move with his legs.
Hero is looking for a sweep.
Hero can't do much from the bottom here.
Graves tries to advance to mount but Hero denies him.
Hero gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard. #T3#
Hero is trying to control but can't. #SUB#
Hero is defending against the submission attempts here by Graves.
Hero tries to roll over but Graves keeps him under control.
Hero won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Hero 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.
Graves trying to control from half guard but Hero is working away.
Graves trying to mount his opponent but Hero defends it.
Graves passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Hero! #T4#
Graves is landing with some decent strikes but Hero is trying to advance his position so the referee is letting the fight continue.
Hero really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
BOOM! Graves connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Hero manages to regain half guard. Good work. #SUB#
Graves is working for a kimura but Hero is defending it quite comfortably.
The fighters are battling for position here. Hero manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Hero is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Graves is aware though and is defending well.#SUB2#
Hero looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Hero keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2##TD#
Graves shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Graves was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
Hero is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Graves's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
We've been hearing that Graves has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Hero wants to control but Graves is keeping busy.
Graves wants to pass to mount but Hero is defending the position.
Hero wants to get back to full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hero trying to control from the bottom.
Hero wants to get back to full guard.#T1#
Graves slips a nice elbow through Hero's hands, connecting with Hero's forehead.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Hero gets full guard.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Hero is retaining full guard.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Hero is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves won't allow Hero to sweep him here.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #SUB2#
Hero has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Graves can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Hero can do to turn this around?
Hero keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Graves advances position into side control!
Hero is looking for a sweep.#T2#
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Hero is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Hero is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Graves wants to control but Hero is keeping him busy.
Graves has knee on belly and moves into mount.
Hero tries to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Graves content just to control the position here. #T3#
Hero has given up his back - I don’t know if this is a deliberate ploy to try and escape or if he is just struggling down there.
Graves is working the ground and pound. Can Hero escape?
Hero trying to control but not successfully.
Graves trying to control.#SUB#
Graves looking to break Hero's wrist control so he can sink in the choke. Hero remaining controlled and patient though - he really has to keep calm otherwise Graves will wrap this one up with the rear naked choke!
Graves is landing with strikes. Hero can't take much more of this.
Hero is really stuck here. #SUB#
Graves 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, Hero has freed his hand and lives to survive another… well, another couple of seconds at least!
Graves scores with punches to the body. #T4#
Hero just trying to survive but Graves is wriggling into a better position, looking to finish.
Graves is hanging on to Hero's back as he tries to escape.
Graves tries to keep control of the position but Hero is staying busy.
Hero can't escape the position. #SUB#
Graves has his opponent's back and is working for the choke.
Graves is trying to stick to Hero's back but Hero is turning into Graves. He's managed to reverse the position - now he's in Graves's guard. Polite applause from the crowd in appreciation of some nice Jiu Jitsu by Hero.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves 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.
Graves is working hard here to advance position.
Hero slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB#
Graves is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Hero is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! This is the final round!#R3#
Graves sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.#TD#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Graves.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Hero wants to control but Graves postures up.
Hero manages to work his way to half guard, despite Graves's best efforts.
Hero keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Hero wants to control the action here but instead Graves manages to pass to full mount!
Hero slips a leg in and gets back to half guard.#SUB2#
Hero actively working from the bottom here.
Hero slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Hero keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Hero is keeping the position.#T1#
Hero trying to keep a closed guard but Graves is proving a slippery customer. #SUB2#
Hero working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Graves doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Oh but Hero is tightening it up a little... Graves has to be careful here... He's got his foot tucked under now, this looks tight! Graves reacted too slowly and this one could be over in a matter of seconds! YES! Graves taps out! Nice BJJ there by Hero!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:48 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Choke). Dollar Hero!
A less than humble Dollar Hero misjudged his post fight interview somewhat and came across a little too arrogant whilst trying to hype up his own abilities.

 

Event: Syn Turner vs Mumu     
Date:   Nov 15, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Graves looks for a takedown but Uesugi sprawls well.
Uesugi stuffs the takedown.
A nice side step and Uesugi releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Graves shoots in but Uesugi avoids the takedown attempt easily.
It seemed like Uesugi was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Graves closes the distance and clinches up with Uesugi, looking for a takedown. Graves pushes Uesugi against the cage but Uesugi circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Graves.
Uesugi looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Uesugi displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Graves.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Uesugi stuns Graves with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Uesugi defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Graves.
A little jabbing left from Uesugi on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Graves fails with a takedown attempt.#T1#
Uesugi tries to bum rush Graves with a series of wild strikes but Graves uses good footwork to avoid the assault.#TD#
Graves looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Uesugi!
Uesugi tries to buck Graves off but Graves is having none of it.
Uesugi prevents Graves from moving into mount.
Uesugi gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Graves is thwarting Uesugi's attempts to control the position.
Uesugi is controlling Graves's trapped leg to prevent Graves from advancing to side control.#T2#
Uesugi is refusing to be controlled, as Graves sits in half guard.
Graves throwing shots but Uesugi is blocking nicely. #SUB2#
Uesugi looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
We've been hearing that Graves has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Graves tries to pass to full mount but Uesugi defends it.
Uesugi trying to control but Graves postures up. #SUB2#
Uesugi looking for submissions off his back.
Graves looks to score some points with some ground and pound.#T3#
Uesugi gets full guard.
Uesugi keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Uesugi swivels though and keeps the full guard. #SUB2#
Uesugi isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Graves stacks Uesugi on his neck as he steps over and passes to the side. He's now in a much more dominant position where he can look to do some serious damage. Nice move by Graves!
Uesugi struggling a bit here.
Uesugi manages to land a sweep and he's now on top! Lovely Jiu Jitsu!#SUB2#
Uesugi 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. #SUB2#
Uesugi is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Graves is just riding it out for now. Uesugi eventually gives up the hold. #T4#
Graves wants to improve his position but Uesugi is controlling well. #SUB2#
Uesugi is looking for a kimura here.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves regains full guard. Nicely done.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Kagekatsu Uesugi will probably get the nod.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Graves shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Uesugi let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.#TD#
Graves closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Uesugi quickly recovers to half guard.
Graves wants to pass to mount but Uesugi is defending the position.
Uesugi is trying to maintain the position but Graves is very close to passing his half guard.
Graves wants to control but Uesugi is keeping him busy.
Graves scoring with strikes to the body and head. #SUB2#
Uesugi actively working from the bottom here.
Graves is trying to advance to mount but he's lost his balance and Uesugi reverses the position - he's now on top in Graves's guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Graves 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#
Graves looking for subs off his back but Uesugi has passed one foot through into half guard. #SUB2#
Uesugi is working for a submission of some sort. #SUB2#
Uesugi is working for a kimura but Graves is defending it quite comfortably.
Graves moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.#T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Graves is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#SUB#
Graves looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Uesugi distracts Graves with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Uesugi preventing the sweep.
Uesugi throwing strikes but missing. #SU2#
Uesugi stands and steps away. Graves gets to his feet too and we're back to the striking game.
Graves shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Uesugi looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Nice sprawl there from Uesugi as Graves shoots in.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Uesugi leaves Graves with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.#T3#
Graves with a lazy takedown attempt
and Uesugi counters with a nice body shot.
Graves looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Graves fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Uesugi avoids it really well and circles away.
Uesugi throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown. Uesugi tries to sprawl out of it but Graves keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Uesugi manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Graves dives in for a single leg takedown but Uesugi sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.#TD#
Graves shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Uesugi's guard.#SUB2#
Graves avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #SUB2#
Uesugi working for a triangle but Graves defends it easily. #T4#
Uesugi is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#SUB2#
Uesugi has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Graves can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Kagekatsu Uesugi will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action. This is the final round!#R3##TD#
Graves looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Uesugi keeps working. #SUB2#
Uesugi is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Graves pulls his head out easily.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves passes into side control, despite Uesugi's attempt to control the position.
Uesugi on the wrong end of some ground and pound.
Uesugi tries to improve position but can't.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Uesugi wants to control but Graves postures up.
Graves advances to mount.
Uesugi is writhing around trying to get back to his feet. #T1#
Graves landing shots from mount.
Uesugi wants to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Ernest Graves overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Graves wants to control the pace but Uesugi is squirming around nicely.
Graves lands with some vicious ground and pound - can Uesugi hang on?
Graves trying to control but Uesugi is having none of it.
Graves has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Uesugi's face.
Uesugi is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
Ernest Graves has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Kagekatsu Uesugi is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.#T2#
Uesugi prevents any damage by holding on tight.#SUB#
Graves is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Uesugi can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.
Uesugi is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
Graves misses with a head shot.
Uesugi stops Graves from taking his back. Still, being mounted isn't any better.
Uesugi is writhing around trying to get back to his feet. #T3#
Uesugi is controlling an arm, preventing Graves from taking his back. Although keeping him in mount is no better to be honest.
Graves working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Uesugi wants to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Graves working Uesugi over with strikes here.
Uesugi controls the position.
Uesugi holding onto his opponent's waist for dear life, as Graves tries to land some strikes to get him to release his grip.
Uesugi tries to lock up and control but Graves gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.#SUB#
Graves goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Uesugi turns into him and now he's in Graves's guard.
Graves looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T4#
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Uesugi can do to turn this around?
Uesugi slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB#
Graves throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 28:29
Judge Percy O'Donnell scores the fight 28:29
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Kagekatsu Uesugi!

An out of breath and clearly excited Kagekatsu Uesugi thanked KOMBAT KLOTHING for their help and support (and free stuff they sent him).

 

Event: Syn 723     
Date:   Oct 17, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Gusmao misses with a looping right.
Gusmao turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Gusmao waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
Graves appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown but Gusmao manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Graves's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Gusmao uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Gusmao swings for the body but Graves moves out of range.
Graves with the counter takedown but Gusmao avoids it easily.
We've been told by Gusmao's head coaches at Kevin Spacey`s Basement of Doom that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Graves misses with a takedown attempt #CL#
and Gusmao counters by moving into the clinch. Good anticipation by Gusmao.
Gusmao can't find room to land a body shot as Graves controls the action.
Graves dodges an elbow strike from Gusmao.
Graves is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Gusmao gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Henrique Gusmao has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Gusmao looks to throw an elbow but misses.
Gusmao lands with a left to the head.
Graves drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Gusmao swings wildly with an uppercut but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#TD2#
Graves is trying to trip Gusmao. He has hold of a leg but Gusmao is hopping around, keeping his balance for the moment. Graves persists though and gets the takedown into guard.
Graves postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Gusmao is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves passes into half guard. #T1##SUB2#
Graves is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Graves trying to pass the guard but Gusmao defending well.
Graves prevents Gusmao from improving his position.
Gusmao is staying active underneath Graves, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Gusmao won't allow Graves to pass to mount. #SUB2#
Graves is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Gusmao is just riding it out for now. Graves eventually gives up the hold.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves is looking to advance position but Gusmao won't allow it. #T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Graves trying to advance position but Gusmao counters by regaining guard.
Gusmao pulls Graves in close to prevent any damage.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Gusmao bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Graves's guard. #REVR#
Gusmao stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.#T3#
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.#SUB2#
Graves is looking for a triangle but Gusmao pushes his legs off easily. #T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.#SUB2#
Graves has his foot on Gusmao's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Gusmao works his way back into a safe position though.#SUB2#
Graves is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Gusmao defends well.
Gusmao won't allow Graves to sweep him here.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.
Gusmao has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Graves has a closed guard, preventing Gusmao from standing up. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Graves shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Gusmao but Gusmao pushes him off and we're back to square one.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Henrique Gusmao dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Gusmao turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Graves shoots and misses
and Gusmao cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Graves stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Gusmao.
Graves takes one to the side of the head.
Graves looks for a takedown but Gusmao sprawls well.
Gusmao chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Gusmao misses with a low kick.
Gusmao throws a front kick aimed at Graves's knee but Graves avoids it well.
Nice takedown defense from Gusmao. No joy for Graves on that attempt.
Henrique Gusmao has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Gusmao takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Graves changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Gusmao tries to avoid it but Graves manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Gusmao to the ground. Gusmao escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Gusmao misses the shot to the body.
Gusmao scores with a sloppy right hand. Graves should have avoided that one.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown but Gusmao manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Graves's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Graves fails with a takedown attempt.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Gusmao defends it nicely.#T1#
Gusmao misses with an uppercut. Graves saw that one coming.
Henrique Gusmao is winning the standup battle so far.
Gusmao swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Gusmao's corner calls for a 1-2. Gusmao obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Gusmao with a hook.
Gusmao throws a leg kick which misses Graves's front leg but catches the back leg as Graves tries to avoid it.
Gusmao defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Graves.
Graves fails to land the takedown.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown. Gusmao tries to sprawl out of it but Graves keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Gusmao manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Gusmao is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Gusmao is looking to clinch but Graves is avoiding it.
Graves shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Gusmao misses with a wild body shot.
Gusmao looks to land a right hand but Graves moved out of range.
Graves tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Gusmao swivels and escapes.
Gusmao misses with a wild body shot.
A countering left hand to the body from Graves misses.
Gusmao throws a leg kick but Graves sees it coming and checks it nicely. #T2#
Gusmao lands a really nice looking cross but Graves seems unphased. #TD2#
Graves drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.#ES#
Gusmao explodes and escapes back to his feet! Nice escape there!
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Gusmao is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Graves can do to turn this around?
Gusmao leaves Graves with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Gusmao misses the shot to the body.
A little jabbing left from Graves on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Graves tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Gusmao swivels and escapes.
Gusmao tries to clinch but Graves is having none of it.
A leg kick checked by Graves.
Graves checks a low kick from Gusmao.
Graves now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Graves tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Gusmao swivels and escapes.
Gusmao jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Graves checks a leg kick. #TD2#
Graves is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Gusmao's half guard.#ES#
Gusmao kicks off Graves and gets to his feet.
Gusmao lands with a shot to the body. #T3#
Gusmao throws a jab when Graves was well out of range.
Gusmao throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Gusmao swivels and escapes.#TD2#
Graves throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Gusmao tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Graves is in Gusmao's guard.
Gusmao wants to sweep but no luck.
Gusmao keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Gusmao keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Henrique Gusmao overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Gusmao trying to control the position here.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Gusmao is keeping the position for now. #T4#
Graves loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Gusmao wants to sweep here but Graves controlling him for the moment.
Gusmao has momentary wrist control but Graves slips an elbow through the middle.
Graves trying to control but Gusmao is working from the bottom.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Graves working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
Graves passes Gusmao's left leg - he's now in half guard.
Graves is pressing down on Gusmao's thigh, looking to free his foot. Gusmao is holding on for now.
Gusmao is doing well to control the position and prevent Graves from advancing to side control.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Henrique Gusmao dominated that second round.
That's time! Gusmao's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3#
Graves changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Gusmao tries to avoid it but Graves manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Gusmao to the ground. Gusmao escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Gusmao displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Graves.
Gusmao with a jab.
Gusmao slaps away a takedown attempt from Graves, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Henrique Gusmao has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Gusmao misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves.
Gusmao lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Gusmao is looking to slow Graves down with leg kicks.
Graves fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Graves shoots in for a takedown but Gusmao shows good takedown defense.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves shoots for a double leg takedown but Gusmao sprawls well. He's pushed Graves's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Gusmao swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
No luck for Graves with that takedown attempt.
Gusmao tries to counter by clinching up but Graves breaks away and moves out of range.
Graves dives in and grabs Gusmao's left leg, looking for a takedown. Gusmao pushes down on Graves's head and hops out.
Graves takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Graves 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.
Gusmao bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.#T1#
Nice straight punches there by Gusmao. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Gusmao.#TD2#
Gusmao gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Gusmao wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Graves in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Graves cracks Gusmao with a solid left hand.
Gusmao keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Ernest Graves has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Henrique Gusmao is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T2#
Gusmao bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Graves's guard. #REVR#
Gusmao won't allow Graves to sweep him here.
Graves throwing strikes off his back to little effect.
Gusmao seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up. #SUB2#
Graves working away from the bottom but not quite defensive enough there because Gusmao has passed into half guard!
Graves tries to get to full guard but Gusmao has control of the leg.
Graves is still trying to improve position.#T3#
Graves gets full guard.
Graves bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Gusmao's guard. #REVB#
Graves scoring with punches to the head and body.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Gusmao swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Graves slips nicely into half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves throwing shots but Gusmao is blocking nicely. #T4#
Gusmao is trying to control but can't.
Graves trying to pass the guard but Gusmao defending well. #SUB2#
Graves is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Gusmao is just riding it out for now. Graves eventually gives up the hold. #ES#
Gusmao makes some distance and scrambles quickly back to his feet. Nice work!
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Gusmao throws out the jab.
Graves jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Graves shoots for a takedown but Gusmao saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
As Graves tries to get set, Gusmao tries to push him back and clinch up but Graves manages to avoid the attempt.
Gusmao scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Kenichi Hosakawa scores the fight 30:27
Judge Taro Takaoka scores the fight 30:27
Judge Shirou Masuda scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Henrique Gusmao!

Henrique Gusmao was full of energy after the big win and talked about how he thinks he can do big things in this sport. The crowd were appreciative of his determination to succeed.

 

Event: Syn Point vs Puno 3     
Date:   Sep 20, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Graves tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Gusmao defends well and Graves ends up having to push Gusmao into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Graves is looking to clinch but Gusmao is avoiding it.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Graves, as that shot connected.
Gusmao connects with a leg kick.
Gusmao thumps Graves with a low kick.#TD#
Graves changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Gusmao looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.#ES2#
Gusmao explodes and escapes back to his feet! Nice escape there!
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!
Graves checks the leg kick.
Graves appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
Graves shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Gusmao sprawls well. Gusmao wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Graves gets slowly back to his feet.
Graves fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves works Gusmao's body with a nice hook.
Graves stuns Gusmao with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Gusmao.#TD#
Gusmao tries to sprawl but Graves drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Gusmao keeps control of the position for the meantime. #T1##SUB#
Graves is working for a kimura here but Gusmao manages to reverse the position and he's now in Graves's guard.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Graves is on top in guard. #REVR#
Gusmao looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Gusmao is keeping the position.
Graves trying to pass the guard. He's being very persistent here but Gusmao manages to land a sweep and now he's on top! #REVB#
Graves looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Gusmao puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard.
Graves is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #T2#
Graves is working hard here to advance position.
Graves is looking to get full guard. It looks like he might be successful but at the last minute Gusmao jumps into side control!
Graves gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Graves tries to get to full guard but Gusmao has control of the leg.
Neither fighter is being very active at the moment, with Gusmao in particular looking to stall.#T3#
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves wants to control but Gusmao is keeping busy.
Graves tries to get to full guard but Gusmao has control of the leg. #SUB#
Graves is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Gusmao pulls his head out easily.
Gusmao tries to pass to full mount but Graves defends it. #T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Gusmao perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
Graves wants to improve his position but Gusmao is controlling well.
Graves has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Gusmao is working away from the top position though.#REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Gusmao with a nice calf kick.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Gusmao is just out of range.
Gusmao misses with a low kick as Graves jumps back.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Henrique Gusmao dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Graves lands a jab to Gusmao's midsection.
Gusmao throws a chopping leg kick but Graves manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Graves scores with a jab to the jaw.
Graves fails with the takedown.
Gusmao is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Graves.
Gusmao has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Gusmao finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Graves went nuts there looking for a big combo counter but none of the flurry connected.
Gusmao throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Gusmao misses with a low kick.
Graves looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Gusmao takes a swing at Graves's ribcage but misses.
Gusmao throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Gusmao slaps away a takedown attempt from Graves, before circling back to the center of the mat.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. 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.
Gusmao lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Graves scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Gusmao doesn't seem bothered though.
Gusmao connects with the punch.
Nice takedown defense from Gusmao. No joy for Graves on that attempt. #T1#
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Gusmao is just out of range.#TD#
Graves closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Gusmao did well to prevent Graves getting side control.
Graves passes to side control.
Graves tries to advance to mount but Gusmao instead regains half guard.
Graves tries to pass to full mount but Gusmao defends it.
Graves wants to take a breather but Gusmao is having none of it.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves is pressing down on Gusmao's thigh, looking to free his foot. Gusmao is holding on for now.
Graves is trying to control the action in half guard but Gusmao is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #T2#
Graves trying to advance position but Gusmao counters by regaining guard.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Gusmao is keeping the position.
Gusmao is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Gusmao keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass. #T3#
Graves trying to move into half guard but instead Gusmao has managed to sweep!#REVB##SUB#
Graves is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Gusmao is aware though and is defending well.#SUB#
Graves looking for subs off his back but Gusmao has passed one foot through into half guard. #SUB#
Graves looking for submissions off his back.
Gusmao prevents Graves from improving his position.
Graves manages to get to full guard. #T4##SU2#
Gusmao stands up from guard. Let's bang!
Graves works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Gusmao misses with a looping left.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves is trying hard to land a takedown here. Gusmao sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet. #TD#
Graves fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Gusmao sprawls well initially but Graves persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Graves wants to take a breather but Gusmao is having none of it.
We've been hearing that Graves has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Gusmao tries to roll over but Graves keeps him under control.
Graves has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Henrique Gusmao will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Graves uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Graves is looking to wear down Gusmao with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Graves has a takedown stuffed.
A nice inside leg kick there by Gusmao. That's going to slow Graves down.
Graves avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Graves connects with a jab.
Graves fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Gusmao throws a big shot that misses.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves tries for a takedown but Gusmao sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#TD#
Graves shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Gusmao is trying to defend but Graves finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.#ES2#
Gusmao pushes Graves off and gets back 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!
Graves throws a hook but Gusmao avoids it easily.#T1#
Gusmao throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #TD#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Graves.
Gusmao parries the strikes from Graves easily there. Graves is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Gusmao to escape.
Graves misses with an attempted head punch from side control.
Graves advances to full mount.
Graves working Gusmao over with strikes here.
Henrique Gusmao has got the better of the ground game so far.
Graves landing shots from mount.
Gusmao working to try and regain half guard.
Graves looking to control but Gusmao is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Ernest Graves has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Gusmao holds on for dear life.
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Gusmao is looking to escape.
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!
Gusmao has worked his way to half guard, taking advantage of Graves's lack of action. #T3#
Graves seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Gusmao does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Gusmao won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Gusmao is trying to get back to full guard.
Graves is pressing down on Gusmao's thigh, looking to free his foot. Gusmao is holding on for now.
Henrique Gusmao is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Graves is trying to advance to mount but he's lost his balance and Gusmao reverses the position - he's now on top in Graves's guard.
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy. #T4##SUB#
Graves had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Gusmao defends it easily.
Graves wants to sweep but no luck. #SU2#
Gusmao gets to his feet. Graves looking to butt scoot but the ref puts an end to that. On your feet son!
Gusmao connects with a nice looking jab.
Gusmao staying out of range there.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Gusmao! But no joy.
Gusmao misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Graves lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Gusmao at a distance.
A left lands for Gusmao.
A nice leg kick from Gusmao, right into the meat of the thigh.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves thuds his right hand into Gusmao's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.

And that's the end of the fight!
That was a close round. You could make an argument for either fighter but I would give it to Ernest Graves.
Well Gusmao has outworked and out performed his opponent in all aspects of the game today. He was simply too good and the decision should be no more than a formality. 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 Percy O'Donnell scores the fight 29:28
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 29:29
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight 29:29

The fight is ruled a majority draw!

 

Event: SYN Animalia Paradoxa     
Date:   Aug 16, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Turner throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Turner has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Razor Sharp Training Systems in the buildup to the fight.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
Graves changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Turner tries to avoid it but Graves manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Turner to the ground. Turner escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Graves slips under a jab from Turner.
Turner comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.#CL#
Turner rushes Graves and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Turner prevents a takedown attempt there.
Turner swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Turner misses with a hook from the clinch.
Turner presses Graves against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Graves tries to throw a body punch but Turner avoids it by throwing Graves back against the cage.
Graves tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
A right hand to the body from Graves.
Graves misses with a body punch.
Graves goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves can't find room to land a body shot as Turner controls the action.
Turner tries to work over Graves's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Graves tries to work over Turner's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Turner's elbow.
Graves blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
A right hand to the body from Graves.
Graves tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Graves tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Turner's elbow. #T1#
Graves prevents a body shot from Turner.
Graves blocking some punches.
Turner lands with a light punch inside.
Turner prevents the takedown attempt.
Elgin Turner has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.#BC#
Turner breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Graves uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Turner.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Turner ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Graves moves away.
Turner walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Turner lands a really nice looking cross but Graves seems unphased.
Graves blocks a leg kick.
Graves takes a swing at Turner's ribcage but misses.
Turner throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Turner misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves.
Turner misses with a body shot.
Graves uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Turner.
Turner looks to land a right hand but Graves moved out of range.
Graves thows a left - swing and a miss!
Graves throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Turner stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Turner keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Turner takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Graves takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.#T2#
A jab from Turner finds it's way through Graves's defenses.
Graves slips under a jab from Turner.
Turner defending well as Graves loads up on a big left hand.
Turner feints and then cracks Graves's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Graves down.
Graves connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Turner throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Graves uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Turner.
Graves looks to land a left hand but Turner moved out of range nicely.
Turner is trying to close the distance and clinch up, after that failed offence from Graves.
Graves slips under a jab from Turner.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body. #CL2#
Graves clinches.
A head punch on the inside from Turner fails to land.
Graves misses with a body punch.
Graves doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Turner lands with a short head shot on the inside.
A short right from Turner on the inside.
Graves tries a body shot but Turner blocks it.
Graves tries a body shot but Turner blocks it.
Graves looking to stall.
Turner blocks a body shot from Graves.
Turner lands a right hand that snaps the head of Graves backwards. #T3#
Stalling in the clinch from Graves.
Turner swings wildly with an uppercut but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Graves blocks an uppercut.
Turner blocks a body shot from Graves.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Graves.
Graves lands a body shot in the clinch.
Turner scores with a shoulder strike.
Turner lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Graves backwards.
A short right from Turner on the inside.
Graves wants a takedown.
Graves lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Graves doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Turner lands an uppercut.
Turner gets through Graves's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Graves blocking some punches.
Turner misses with the head strike.
Graves misses with a hook to the ribs.
Graves wants a takedown.
Turner lands with a short head shot on the inside.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Turner throws a head punch that misses. #BC#
Turner's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.#T4#
Graves takes one to the side of the head.
Turner keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Graves scores with a nice head shot.
Graves throws a shot from downtown. Turner moves away and avoids it.
Graves lands with an overhand left.
Graves connects with a body shot that sends Turner's belly button to the back.
Graves getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Turner tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Turner.
Turner throws a body punch but Graves moves out of range.
Graves with a nice cross.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Turner moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Graves lands with a cross.
Graves throws a lazy right hand but Turner sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Turner moves forwards but Graves connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Turner rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Graves moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Turner slips under a jab from Graves.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown. Turner tries to sprawl out of it but Graves keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Turner manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
A counter left hand to the body from Turner misses its target.
Graves takes one on the button.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Elgin Turner dominated that round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action.#R2#
Graves throws a hook to the side of Turner's head but Turner sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Turner connects with an inside leg kick.
Turner connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Graves checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Graves lands a nice looking body shot. #CL2#
Graves has managed to clinch.
Graves can't find room to land a body shot as Turner controls the action. #BC#
Turner pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Jab by Turner.
Nice uppercut there from Turner.
A big left from Turner misses.
Turner misses with the combination.
Turner blocks a jab.
A nice leg kick lands there from Turner.
Turner throws a chopping leg kick but Graves manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Turner takes one to the chin there.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Graves staying out of range there.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Turner moves away.
Turner swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Graves ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Nice jab there from Turner. #T1#
Turner is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Graves.
Turner takes one to the chin there.
Turner scores with a decent looking hook.
Turner takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Turner throws out a loose jab but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Turner looks to land a right hand but Graves moved out of range.
Graves loads up on a big right hand but Turner slips the punch.
Turner is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Graves can do to turn this around?
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Turner throws out the jab.
A jab lands there for Graves.
Turner throws a good cross that connects.
Graves slips a straight right by Turner.
Graves scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Turner doesn't seem bothered though.
Elgin Turner is winning the standup battle so far.
Turner misses with a straight right.
Graves takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Turner misses with a wild body shot.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
Graves bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
A jab lands there for Graves.
Turner will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away. #T2#
Graves tries to move into range but Turner moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Graves slips under a jab.
Turner punishes Graves's body with a nice straight punch.
Turner tries to move into range but Graves moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Turner throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Graves lands a jab.#TD2#
Graves fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Turner sprawls well initially but Graves persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Turner trying to control from the bottom.
Turner is looking for a sweep. Graves is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Turner trying to control but Graves postures up.
Turner won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Turner is refusing to be controlled, as Graves sits in half guard.
Graves is pressing down on Turner's thigh, looking to free his foot. Turner is holding on for now. #T3#
Turner trying to hold on to Graves's head to control him but Graves postures up. #SUB2#
Graves is looking for a kimura but Turner is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Graves to get the leverage.
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but Turner is holding on for dear life with his legs. #SUB2#
Graves 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.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Turner is defending well.
Turner trying to control but Graves postures up.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Graves working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
Turner moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.#T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Graves trying to control but Turner is working from the bottom.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Turner is keeping the position for now.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves trying to control but Turner is working from the bottom.
Turner keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Turner looking for a sweep. Not yet Turner, not yet.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Turner has Graves pulled in close to control his posture.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Graves trying to control but Turner is working from the bottom.
Turner has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!#R3#
Turner throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Graves stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Graves takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
A swing and a miss from Turner.
Graves looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Turner jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Graves is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Turner.
Turner changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Turner throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Turner slips a jab from Graves.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Turner moves away.
Graves scores with a sloppy right hand. Turner should have avoided that one.
Graves shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Turner pinned against the cage. Turner gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves throws the left hand but Turner avoids the punch easily.
It looked like Turner wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Graves scores with a hook to the body. Turner takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Turner misses with a straight right.
A jab from Graves misses.
Turner throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Turner throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
A little jabbing left from Graves on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Graves wants to clinch up but Turner keeps it at a distance.#T1#
Turner throws a looping overhand right but Graves ducks down to avoid it.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Turner does a little dance to reset his feet.
Turner lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Graves takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Graves's jab looks to have found its range, popping Turner under the eye.
Elgin Turner is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Turner jabs Graves right on the nose. Graves blinks but takes it well.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Turner fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Graves is out of range.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Turner jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Graves misses with a straight left.
Turner tries to clinch but Graves is having none of it.
Turner lands a nice shot to the body.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Turner connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Graves scrambles back to his feet.
Graves scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Turner doesn't seem bothered though.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Turner.
Graves lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Turner at a distance. #T2#
Graves looks to throw the jab but Turner is out of range.
Turner throws an overhand right that lands on Graves's shoulder, as Graves tries to avoid the shot.
Turner cracks Graves with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
A big right from Turner misses.
Turner jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Graves tests Turner's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Graves goes for a double leg but Turner avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Turner continues to drive forward.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
A big left from Turner misses.
Graves throws a body punch but Turner moves out of range.
Turner throws a good cross that connects.
Graves scores with a jab.
Turner throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Graves sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Turner fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.#CL#
Turner drives through and clinches with Graves against the cage.
Graves tries a body shot but Turner blocks it.
Graves misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Turner tries to throw a body punch but Graves avoids it by throwing Turner back against the cage.
Turner looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Graves takes a shot to the head.
Turner lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Graves tries to work over Turner's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target. #T3#
Turner misses with a body punch.
Turner throws a punch but it's blocked by Graves.
Turner misses with a short punch on the inside.
Come on Graves - let's have some action - none of this stalling nonsense.
Turner throws a punch but it's blocked by Graves. #TD2#
Graves has picked Turner up - he's going for a ride! Graves dumps his opponent to the mat with a thud and settles into half guard.
Graves works his foot free and advances to mount.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Turner sneaks a leg under to get to half guard.
Turner tries to get to full guard but Graves has control of the leg.
Turner slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Graves postures up in Turner's guard and throws a big left but Turner blocks it. #T4#
Graves wants to control from the top but Turner keeps moving.
Turner pulls Graves in close to prevent any damage.
Graves keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Turner's head.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Turner is retaining full guard.
Turner controls Graves momentarily but Graves frees himself.
Graves advances position into side control!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Turner struggling a bit here.
Turner gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Graves looks to score some points with some ground and pound.

And that's the end of the fight!
That was a close round. You could make an argument for either fighter but I would give it to Elgin Turner.
I think Turner 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 Frank Antenori scores the fight 29:28
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 29:28
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Elgin Turner!

Elgin Turner spent the whole post fight interview bigging himself up. It didn't go down that well with the fans after a while as they thought it was a bit arrogant.

 

Event: Syn 696 Point vs Puno     
Date:   Jul 04, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
A combination from Graves does no damage.
Rhod takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Rhod takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves misses with a hook.
Rhod steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Graves.
Rhod misses with an attempted mid kick.
Rhod uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Graves.
Rhod lands a jab to the nose.
Nice defenses there by Rhod.
Graves backing away here, and Rhod unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Graves jabs Rhod to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Rhod with the inside leg kick.
A chopping leg kick lands by Rhod.
Rhod is looking to score with low kicks.
Graves has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Tōshi in the buildup to the fight.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Rhod only half commits to the counter leg kick.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
The fighters circling - Rhod throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Rhod manages to avoid it.
Rhod lands a right hook to the body.
Graves uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Rhod.
Rhod throws a jab but it's blocked by Graves.
Graves shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Rhod as he jumps to the side.
Rhod throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Rhod ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Graves moves away.#T1#
Graves misses with a hook.
Graves tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Rhod thows a left - swing and a miss!
Rhod keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Graves fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Rhod is just out of range.
Graves loads up on a big right hand but Rhod slips the punch.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Rhod misses with a low kick.
Jab, jab by Graves - just one landing.
The fighters circling - Graves throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Rhod keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
A swing and a miss from Graves.
A jab lands there for Rhod.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Rhod tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Rhod.
Rhod scores with a jab to the head.
Rudy Rhod is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
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!
Graves 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.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Rhod was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Graves.
Graves has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Graves there as he acknowledges the shot.#T2#
Graves throws a jab but it's blocked by Rhod.
Rhod keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Rhod is looking to score with low kicks.
Graves takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Graves scores with a decent looking hook.
Rhod uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
A slow jab from Rhod misses its intended target.
Rhod misses with an attempted mid kick.
Graves dives in for a single leg takedown but Rhod sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Rhod connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Rhod throws out a loose jab but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Graves lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.
Rhod lands a leg kick that knocks Graves off balance momentarily.
Rhod closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Rhod has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.
A shot to the liver by Rhod. Beautiful body shot.
Graves takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Rhod misses with a wild body shot.
Rhod connects with a leg kick.
Graves moves out of range as Rhod strikes.
Rhod's jab looks to have found its range, popping Graves under the eye.
A good leg kick by Rhod. #T3#
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Rhod moves away.
Rhod moves into range and connects with a jab.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Rhod throws out the jab.
Rhod stuffs the takedown.
A countering left hand to the body from Rhod misses.
Rhod misses with a body kick.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Graves takes a swing at Rhod's ribcage but misses.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Rhod throws out the jab.
Graves lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Graves staying out of range there.
Rhod fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Graves looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Rhod throws a looping overhand right but Graves ducks down to avoid it.
Rhod misses with a hook. Graves ducked under it nicely.
Rhod misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves.
Graves tries to clinch there but Rhod circles away.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Rhod stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Rhod wants it to stay on the feet.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Rhod keeps the fight on the outside.
An inside leg kick lands from Rhod.
Graves moves out of range as Rhod strikes.
Graves is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Rhod throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#T4#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Rhod throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Rhod throws a leg kick which misses Graves's front leg but catches the back leg as Graves tries to avoid it.
Rhod is landing a lot of head punches in this opening round! Graves had better start moving his head a bit unless he wants his face to turn into pâté.
Rhod chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Rhod throws a body shot but no joy.
Rhod lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Graves circles away quickly and effectively.
Rhod misses with a looping right.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Rhod.
Rhod throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Rhod keeps the fight on the outside.
Graves misses the jab.
Rhod fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Graves manages to avoid it.
Graves clobbers Rhod with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves throws a body punch but Rhod moves out of range.
Rhod stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Rhod loads up on a big right hand but Graves slips the punch.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Graves cracks Rhod with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
A punch lands to the side of Graves 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Rhod lands a nice looking body shot.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Donk. Graves catches Rhod right on the button with a cross.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Rudy Rhod dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Graves shoots for a double leg takedown but Rhod sprawls well. He's pushed Graves's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Rhod has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Rhod lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Graves uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Rhod.
Rhod loads up on a big right hand but Graves slips the punch.
Jab by Graves.#CL#
Rhod tries to keep at a distance but Graves has taken the fight into the clinch.
Graves misses with a hook to the ribs.
Rhod has had enough of the clinch and is looking to separate.#BC2#
Rhod breaks the clinch.
Graves checks the leg kick.
Rhod moves forwards but Graves connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Graves uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Rhod lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
A nice inside leg kick there by Rhod. That's going to slow Graves down.
Rhod moves out of range as Graves strikes.
A punch combination from Graves misses.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#CL#
Graves has Rhod up against the cage in a clinch.
Rhod is looking to break free of the clinch but Graves has double underhooks.
Rhod blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Graves is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage. #T1#
Rhod tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Graves misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Graves prevents a body shot from Rhod.
Rhod trying to stall but Graves improves his position.
Graves misses with a body punch. #BC#
Graves breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Rhod has worked on his takedown defense in the runup to this fight and it is paying off so far.
Graves stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Rhod.
Rhod cracks Graves with a right hand to the side of the head.
Rhod missing with a left hand there. Graves was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Rhod throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Rhod swinging wildly here.
Graves closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Graves misses with a straight left.
Rhod swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Graves keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Rhod.
Rhod throws a hook but Graves blocks it.
Rhod defending well as Graves loads up on a big left hand.
Graves looks to land a left hand but Rhod moved out of range nicely.
Rhod throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
Rhod fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Graves has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Graves fails with the takedown.#T2#
Rhod takes a swing at Graves's ribcage but misses.
Graves dodges the punch combination from Rhod.
Graves throwing a counter right hand but Rhod manages to avoid it.
Graves lands a right hook to the body.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Rhod manages to avoid it.
Rhod throws a solid leg kick but Graves takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Rhod.
Graves throws a jab when Rhod was well out of range.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Rhod connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
That kick from Rhod tenderised Graves's leg. Graves is trying to keep his angry face on.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Graves is defended easily by Rhod.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Rhod throws a jab but it's blocked by Graves.
Rhod fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Graves manages to avoid it.
Rhod throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Rhod walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
A telegraphed right hand from Rhod misses the target.
Rhod avoids the body shot from Graves.
Rhod lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.#T3#
Graves is trying hard to land a takedown here. Rhod sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
It seemed like Rhod was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Rhod slips a straight right by Graves.
Rhod misses with a looping left.
Graves lands a lovely overhand right.
Graves lands a body shot.
Graves defending well as Rhod loads up on a big left hand.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Rhod.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Rhod.
Graves uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Rhod.
Graves throws a hook but Rhod avoids it easily.
Rhod swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves throws an overhand right that lands on Rhod's shoulder, as Rhod tries to avoid the shot.
Graves doesn't manage to clinch there - Rhod circles away.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Rhod.
Rudy Rhod seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Rhod finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Graves defending well as Rhod loads up on a big left hand.
Graves checks a low kick from Rhod.
Graves avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Rhod throws a nice outside leg kick.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Rhod misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too. #T4#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Rhod moves away.
Rhod tries to score with a low kick but Graves moves his leg out of the way.
Graves dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves throws a big shot that misses.
Graves fails in his attempt to clinch.
Rhod misses with an attempted mid kick.
Rhod throws a looping overhand right but Graves ducks down to avoid it.
Graves throwing a counter right hand but Rhod manages to avoid it.
Graves slips under a jab from Rhod.
Graves is looking to counter punch.
Rhod connects with an inside leg kick.
Rhod connects with a solid leg kick.
The sound of bone on bone echoes around the arena as Graves checks a leg kick.
Graves comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Graves throws an overhand right that lands on Rhod's shoulder, as Rhod tries to avoid the shot.
Rhod is looking to slow Graves down with leg kicks.
Rhod blocks a jab.
Rhod looks to land a right hand but Graves moved out of range.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Rhod manages to avoid it.
Graves takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Rhod 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.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Rhod throws a jab but it's blocked by Graves.
Graves throws the left hand but Rhod avoids the punch easily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Rudy Rhod showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
Rhod bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Graves's head backwards.
Graves connects with a body shot.
Rhod bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Rhod misses with an uppercut.
Rhod misses the shot to the body.
It looked like Graves was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
Rhod tries to score with an inside leg kick but telegraphs it and Graves is able to avoid easily.
Rhod fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Graves has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Rhod gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Jab by Rhod.
An inside leg kick from Rhod misses.
Graves was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Rhod takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Graves uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Rhod.
Graves tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Rhod paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Rhod throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Rhod is looking to chop away at Graves's legs.
Graves throws a body punch but Rhod moves out of range.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#CL#
Graves clinches with his opponent.
Rhod blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Rhod is trying to break the clinch but Graves has him pressed against the cage. #T1#
Graves can't find room to land a body shot as Rhod controls the action.
Graves tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Rhod wants to break free. God knows he wants to breaaaak freeee.
Graves misses with a punch to the body.
Rhod struggles to land a body shot inside as Graves controls his hands.
Rhod wants to get back to striking at distance but Graves won't allow it.
A hook to the body from Graves.
Graves has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Rhod after a bit of a struggle.
Rhod scores with a hook to the body.#BC2#
Rhod's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Graves swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Rhod moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Graves blocks a low kick nicely.
The fighters circling - Rhod throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Rhod cracks Graves with a good jab.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Rhod avoids it really well and circles away.
Rhod looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Ernest Graves has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Rhod throws a leg kick but Graves moved away.
Rhod takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Graves is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Graves throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Graves scores with a jab to the head.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Rhod cracks Graves with a right hand to the side of the head.
Graves on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Rhod. Rhod obviously looking to wear him down.
Rhod scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
A shot to the liver by Rhod. Beautiful body shot.
Rhod wants to slow Graves down by chopping away at his legs.
Graves connects with a good right hand that stumbles Rhod. Rhod circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Rhod takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Rhod has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Rhod.
Rhod scores with a leg kick.
Rhod connects with a solid leg kick.
Rhod bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Rhod scores with a jab to the jaw.
Rudy Rhod is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.#T3#
Rhod takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Rhod keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves loads up on a big right hand but Rhod slips the punch.
Graves throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Rhod throws a nice inside leg kick.
Rhod turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Rhod digs a good body shot into Graves's ribs.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves backing away here, and Rhod unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Rhod thuds his right hand into Graves's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Rhod throws a hook but Graves blocks it.
Rhod scores with a jab to the head.
Graves throws a hook to the side of Rhod's head but Rhod sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Graves lands a nice hook to Rhod's body. Rhod takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Rhod scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Rhod takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Rhod moves away.
Rhod throws a hook to the side of Graves's head but Graves sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Rhod connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Graves momentarily.
Rhod looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks. #T4#
No luck with that takedown attempt from Graves.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Rhod lands with a cross.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Rhod throws a right and a left that both miss.
Graves misses with an uppercut.
Rhod lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Graves lands with a shot to the body.
Rhod blocks a jab.
Graves lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Rhod at a distance.
Graves fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Rhod turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Rhod thows a body kick. Graves tries to catch it but that hurt him.
Donk. Rhod catches Graves right on the button with a cross.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Graves sizes up Rhod with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Graves misses with an uppercut.
Rhod swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Graves was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Graves misses with a looping right.
Rhod looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Rhod was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Rudy Rhod.
I've got Rhod winning every round here. Surely the decision will go his way and he'll pick up a well deserved decision victory. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 27:30
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 27:30
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Rudy Rhod!

After winning the bout, Rudy Rhod thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: Syn 692 Turner vs Gravas     
Date:   Jun 13, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Kansalainen jabbing away but nothing is landing.
A little jabbing left from Graves on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
A jab lands there for Graves.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves closes this distance looking for a takedown but Kansalainen circles away.
Graves dives in and grabs Kansalainen's left leg, looking for a takedown. Kansalainen pushes down on Graves's head and hops out.
Kansalainen uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Graves.
Kansalainen with a hook.
Graves scores with the left hand. Kansalainen knows he should have avoided that one.
Kansalainen throws out a powerful jab.
Kansalainen is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.#TD2#
Graves throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Kansalainen was covering up waiting for the punch and Graves finishes the takedown easily into guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#SUB#
Kansalainen looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Kansalainen can't keep his opponent in guard - Graves advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Graves looking to pass the half guard. Not this time. #T1#
Graves stalling.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Kansalainen is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Graves missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Graves is looking to pass Kansalainen's guard but actually Kansalainen recovers to full guard.
Kansalainen definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Kansalainen is keeping the position for now.
Kansalainen trying to keep a closed guard but Graves is proving a slippery customer. #T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Kansalainen is really struggling to control Graves but he's trying to hold on to the position.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Kansalainen is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Kansalainen seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
Kansalainen keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully. #SUB#
Kansalainen has managed to work for a loose triangle. I think Graves should be able to defend this one pretty easily though. Oh, Kansalainen has tightened it up now! Graves should have reacted faster there - he's in big trouble and yes, he's tapped out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Tapani Kansalainen!
In his post fight interview, Tapani Kansalainen started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

 

Event: Syn 687 Point vs Alzheimer     
Date:   May 16, 2020
#R1#
Graves throws a hook but Sea blocks it.
Sea defending well as Graves loads up on a big left hand.
Sea throws a nice inside leg kick.
A big left from Sea misses.
Graves takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Graves moves in looking to clinch but Sea pushes him off.
Sea tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Sea walks into a left hand.
Sea misses with a body kick.
Graves scores with a sloppy right hand. Sea should have avoided that one.
Graves scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Sea doesn't seem bothered though.
Graves pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Sea goes for a spinning back kick but it misses. #TD2#
Sea drives through with a takedown into Graves's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Sea content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots. #SUB#
Graves escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Sea gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Graves seems to have improved his submission grappling technique since last time we saw him. Let's see if he can pull off a submission.
Graves wants to sweep but no luck.
Sea throwing strikes from guard but Graves blocks nicely. #T1#
Graves looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Graves is working actively from the bottom, looking for submissions. He's escaped his hips to the side and he's going for an armbar! Sea has his hands clasped together but Graves extends and breaks Sea's desperate grasp, forcing a tap out due to armbar! Nice BJJ displayed there by Graves.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:31 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ernest Graves!
After the fight, Ernest Graves was humble in paying tribute to his opponent but made it clear he wants to go on to bigger and better things. It seemed to go down well with the crowd who cheered him loudly.

 

Event: Demolition 9 - TBA     
Date:   Feb 05, 2020
#R1#
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Stoddler looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Stoddler manages to avoid it.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Stoddler.
Graves digs a good body shot into Stoddler's ribs.
Graves moves away from the strike by Stoddler.
Graves throws a jab when Stoddler was well out of range.
Graves uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Stoddler has time to react.
Stoddler misses with a double jab. #CL2#
Stoddler tries to keep at a distance but Graves has taken the fight into the clinch.
A head punch on the inside from Stoddler fails to land.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Stoddler lands on the inside with an uppercut. #BC#
Stoddler breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Stoddler is just out of range.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Stoddler rather than just go for the knockout.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses. #T1#
Graves avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Graves wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Stoddler finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Stoddler is looking to counter with head kicks.#TD2#
Graves gets a takedown into half guard.#SUB2#
Graves is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg. #SUB2#
Graves is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Stoddler sees it coming and defends easily.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Stoddler is defending well.
Graves passes into side control, despite Stoddler's attempt to control the position. #T2#
You can see the frustration on Stoddler's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#SUB2#
Graves working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Graves working his ground and pound in the gym. So far it seems to be working well.
Graves wants to control but Stoddler is keeping him busy.
Graves tries to move to mount but Stoddler blocks the move with his legs.
Stoddler is not content to let Graves control the position. #T3#
Stoddler tries to improve position but can't. #SUB2#
Graves is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Stoddler knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Stoddler struggling a bit here.
Graves trying to control the action but Stoddler is working from the bottom.
Graves working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Graves trying to control the action but Stoddler is working from the bottom. #T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Graves works to advance to full mount. Stoddler defends for a few seconds but eventually he succumbs.
Graves trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Stoddler wriggling around on the bottom manages to avoid the strikes thrown by Graves.
Stoddler tries to hold on but Graves postures up.
Stoddler tries to reverse the position but Graves maintains control.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves wants to take Stoddler's back here but Stoddler is holding on to an arm, himself looking to escape.
Stoddler just holding on.
Graves is trying to take his opponent's back.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves 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#
Graves lands with a shot to the body.
Graves swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
and Stoddler counters with a right hand to the body.
Graves comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Stoddler tries to move into range but Graves moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
A shot to the liver by Graves. Beautiful body shot.
Graves avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Stoddler throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Graves sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Stoddler was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves lands with a shot to the body.
Stoddler cracks Graves with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.#CUT#
It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves shoots in and drives through. Stoddler sprawls well.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Stoddler is just out of range.
Stoddler swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
A shot to the liver by Graves. Beautiful body shot.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd. #T1#
Stoddler pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Graves sizes up Stoddler with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Graves slips a jab from Stoddler.
Stoddler doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Graves scores with a hook to the body. Stoddler takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Graves thuds a left hand into Stoddler's body.#TD2#
Graves shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Graves showed some decent athleticism there.
Stoddler is doing well to control the position and prevent Graves from advancing to side control.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Stoddler is defending well.
Graves is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.#T2##SUB2#
Graves is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Stoddler doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Graves.
Graves wants to pass to mount but Stoddler is defending the position.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!#T3#
Stoddler is looking for a sweep. Graves is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Graves wants to pass to mount but Stoddler is defending the position.
Graves looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Stoddler is looking for a sweep. Graves is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Graves tries to pass to full mount but Stoddler defends it.
Graves is stalling here. Stoddler is in no mood to hang around though. He's locked up a kimura from the bottom! Graves seems to be keeping calm but he's forced to roll out of the hold and Stoddler has ended up in side control on the top. Nice work. #T4#
Graves sneaks back into half guard.
Stoddler tries to pass to full mount but Graves defends it.
Graves wants to control but Stoddler is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Stoddler wants to control but Graves is keeping him busy.
Graves tries to get to full guard but Stoddler has control of the leg.
Stoddler sitting and controlling from the half guard.
Graves trying to get back to full guard but Stoddler takes advantage of the position and moves to full mount!
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.
#R3#
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Stoddler moves away.
Graves cracks a nice hook into Stoddler's ribs.
Stoddler takes a swing at Graves's ribcage but misses.
Stoddler lands a really nice looking cross but Graves seems unphased.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Stoddler.
Stoddler throws out a loose jab but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
Stoddler showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Graves.
Stoddler swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Stoddler keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Graves takes a swing at Stoddler's ribcage but misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A nice leg kick lands there from Stoddler.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Stoddler manages to avoid it.
Stoddler connects with a body shot that sends Graves's belly button to the back.
Stoddler feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Gravess jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Stoddler.#T1#
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves misses with a looping left.
Graves scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Stoddler doesn't seem bothered though.
Stoddler listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Graves throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
A shot to the liver by Graves. Beautiful body shot.
Graves lands a jab to Stoddler's midsection.
Graves throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Stoddler throws a sloppy head kick and Graves moves out of range easily.
Graves clobbers Stoddler with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Graves connects with a body shot.#KD#
Oooooh!!! Stoddler has knocked Graves down with a huge combo! Stoddler steps away and waves a wobbly Graves back to his feet! This one might not go much longer!#ROC#
Graves is rocked!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Stoddler was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves is still on wobbly legs! Can Stoddler finish him?
Graves steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Stoddler.
Ernest Graves seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Stoddler circles away from the clinch attempt.
Stoddler throws an uppercut from hell that sends Graves clean off his feet! He's out cold! Stoddler stands back and admires his work as he thinks about that KO of the night award that is surely being wrapped up for him back stage.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:56 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tud Stoddler!
Tud Stoddler retains his lightweight title!
Tud Stoddler spent the whole post fight interview bigging himself up. It didn't go down that well with the fans after a while as they thought it was a bit arrogant.

 

Event: Demolition 6 - Valdez v Graves     
Date:   Jan 20, 2020
#R1#
Graves scores with a hook to the body. Valdez takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Valdez missing with a left hand there. Graves was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Graves let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
We've been told by Valdez's head coaches at Crassus that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.#TD2#
Graves looking to score a takedown here. Valdez is defending well but Graves drives through and ends up in Valdez's guard.
Graves is pushing down on Valdez's leg trying to pass to half guard. Valdez is fighting to maintain full guard but Graves has managed to sneak the leg through.
Graves is looking for the mount but instead finds himself back in full guard.
Graves trying to move into half guard but instead Valdez has managed to sweep!#REVR#
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy. #SUB2#
Graves working for a triangle but Valdez defends it easily.
Graves wants to sweep here but Valdez controlling him for the moment. #SUB2#
Valdez avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #T1##SUB2#
Graves is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Graves looking to hit a scissor sweep but Valdez is one step ahead there.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Graves holds on and takes a little breather.
Valdez looking to control the position here, rather than advance. #T2#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Graves lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Graves passes Valdez's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Valdez knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Graves on the ground.
Graves trying to control from half guard but Valdez is working away.
Graves is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for Valdez!
Graves wants to control the pace but Valdez is squirming around nicely.
Graves is trying to take his opponent's back. #T3#
Graves trying to control but Valdez is having none of it.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Valdez wants to hold on but Graves pushes him away.
Graves looking to control but Valdez is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.#SUB2#
Graves working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet. #T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.#SUB2#
Graves is looking to secure an arm. He's managed it! He's pivoting for an armbar - that looks tight! But Valdez has managed to get out of it and now he's in a dominant position. Nice work from Valdez!
Graves wants to sweep but no luck.
Graves looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Valdez puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves wants to get back to full guard.#SUB2#
Graves is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Valdez pulls his head out easily.
Valdez keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.
Graves 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.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Valdez prevents Graves from improving his position.
Graves has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Valdez is working away from the top position though.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves 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#
Graves lands with a good body shot.
Graves ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Valdez misses with a hook.
Valdez looks to land a right hand but Graves moved out of range.
Graves appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.#TD2#
Graves looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
Graves is looking to pass Valdez's guard but actually Valdez recovers to full guard.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Graves's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Valdez keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Graves is looking to advance position but Valdez has hit a scissor sweep - now he's on top in mount!#REVR##T1#
Graves can't escape the position.
Graves manages to regain half guard. Good work.
Graves is looking to control Valdez's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Graves avoid being mounted?
Valdez prevents Graves from improving his position.#T2#
Graves trying to get back to full guard but Valdez takes advantage of the position and moves to full mount!
Ernest Graves has got the better of the ground game so far.
Graves is trying to escape the mount.
Graves 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.#SUB2#
Graves actively working from the bottom here.
Valdez is figuring out what he wants to do next.#T3#
Graves trying to keep hold of his opponent's head but Valdez manages to pass to mount!
Valdez prevents Graves from getting the reversal.
Graves gets back to half guard.
Graves wants to get back to full guard.
Graves wants to control but Valdez is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Graves is trying to get back to full guard.
Graves is still trying to improve position.#T4#
Graves is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Graves keeps trying to improve his position.
Valdez is controlling the pace.
Graves is looking to improve his position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Ernest Graves will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!
#R3#
Graves jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Valdez throws a half hearted mid kick.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
A little feinted left hand from Valdez on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves connects with a body shot that sends Valdez's belly button to the back.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Valdez manages to avoid it.
It looked like Valdez was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Graves.
Graves moves out of range as Valdez strikes.
Graves swings widly with a right hand
enabling Valdez to counter with a crisp jab.
Graves has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Valdez misses with a head kick.
Graves misses with a jab to the body
and Valdez counters with a nice body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Valdez on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot. #TD2#
Graves looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves stands and throws Valdez's legs to the side, diving into side control. #T1#
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Valdez keeps working. #SUB2#
Graves tries for a kimura but Valdez is defending well.
Valdez prevents Graves from moving into mount.
Graves advances nicely into full mount.
Graves wants to take Valdez's back but he can't do it this time. #SUB2#
Graves goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Valdez turns into him and now he's in Graves's guard.
DeMario Valdez has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Valdez stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.#SUB2#
Graves looking for a guillotine here but Valdez defends easily.
Valdez is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Graves wants to sweep here but Valdez controlling him for the moment. #T3#
Valdez trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves trying to keep a closed guard but Valdez is proving a slippery customer.
Graves 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#
Graves is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Valdez defends well.
Graves looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Graves working a defensive guard here.
Graves looking for a sweep. Not yet Graves, not yet. #SUB2#
Graves looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy. #SUB2#
Graves working for submissions but it's allowed Valdez to get to half guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves wants to get back to full guard.

And that's the end of the fight!
Ernest Graves comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Graves has outworked and out performed his opponent in all aspects of the game today. He was simply too good and the decision should be no more than a formality. 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 Percy O'Donnell scores the fight 27:30
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 27:30
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

A very excited looking Ernest Graves 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.

 

Event: Demolition 2- Bone v Floyd     
Date:   Dec 27, 2019
#R1#
Sitsongrit gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Graves swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Graves tests Sitsongrit's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Graves 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.
Sitsongrit moves out of range as Graves strikes.
Sitsongrit looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Sitsongrit on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Graves misses with a hook. Sitsongrit ducked under it nicely.
Sitsongrit throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
Sitsongrit takes a punch to the jaw and another one to the bread basket.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Sitsongrit.
Graves misses with a hook.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Sitsongrit was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves misses with a shot to the body
and Sitsongrit counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Sitsongrit swats away the attempt to clinch by Graves.
Sitsongrit uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Graves.
Graves tries to close the distance and clinch up but Sitsongrit swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Graves throws a jab but it's blocked by Sitsongrit.
Sitsongrit swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.#TD#
Graves closes the distance and gets a double leg, slamming Sitsongrit to the mat! Sitsongrit manages to get full guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves advances position into side control!#T1#
Sitsongrit manages to work his way to half guard, despite Graves's best efforts.
Graves has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Sitsongrit really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Sitsongrit manages to regain half guard. Good work. #SUB2#
Sitsongrit actively working from the bottom here.
Sitsongrit tries to roll over but Graves keeps him under control.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Sitsongrit keeps working. #SUB2#
Sitsongrit actively working from the bottom here.
Sitsongrit wants to get back to full guard.
Graves trying to control the pace. #SUB2#
Sitsongrit looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#T2#
Graves uses his free foot to push down on Sitsongrit's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Sitsongrit.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Graves looking for an armbar but decides to keep the dominant position instead. #SUB#
Graves with some aggressive grappling here. He's looking for submissions here, rather than waiting for the opportunity to counter.
Graves pushing the pace here, looking to move to his opponents back and work for a finish.
Sitsongrit tries to get back to half guard but can't. #SUB#
Graves looking for a guillotine from mount but Sitsongrit is having none of it. #SUB#
Graves has control of Sitsongrit's right arm, working for a kimura. It's a bit of a token attempt though and Sitsongrit regains control of the situation pretty easily.
Sitsongrit sneaks a leg under to get to half guard.#T3#
Sitsongrit makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Sitsongrit.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Graves is working hard here to advance position.#SUB2#
Sitsongrit working for a triangle but Graves defends it easily.
Graves trying to control but Sitsongrit is working from the bottom.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Sitsongrit is retaining full guard. #T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.#SUB2#
Sitsongrit is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Graves is aware though and is defending well.#SUB2#
Sitsongrit is active off his back here, looking for submissions. #SUB2#
Sitsongrit throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Graves looking to pass the guard.
Graves trying to control but Sitsongrit is working from the bottom.
Sitsongrit can't keep his opponent in guard - Graves advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Neither fighter is being very active at the moment, with Graves in particular looking to stall.#SUB2#
Sitsongrit looking for submissions off his back.
Graves works his way into side control.
Sitsongrit is looking for a sweep.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
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#
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
A little jabbing left from Sitsongrit on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Julio Cesar Sitsongrit is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Sitsongrit rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Graves moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Graves was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Sitsongrit slips under a jab from Graves.
Sitsongrit appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Sitsongrit displaying good standup as he scores with a three punch combination.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves throws a sloppy body shot
and Sitsongrit counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Sitsongrit is just out of range.
Graves takes a swing at Sitsongrit's ribcage but misses.
Sitsongrit is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sitsongrit missing with a left hand there. Graves was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Graves, as that shot connected.
Graves smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Sitsongrit! But no joy.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves shoots for a takedown but Sitsongrit saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.#T1#
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Sitsongrit was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Sitsongrit looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Graves takes a swing at Sitsongrit's ribcage but misses.
Sitsongrit throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Graves throwing a counter right hand but Sitsongrit manages to avoid it.
Horrible takedown attempt by Graves or perhaps it was just good defense by Sitsongrit, which made it look bad.
Graves looks to throw the jab but Sitsongrit is out of range.
Graves scores with a hook to the body. Sitsongrit takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Sitsongrit takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Graves cracks Sitsongrit with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Sitsongrit's coach down at Men Only. No Liberals ! was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Sitsongrit's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
Graves dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Sitsongrit was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Sitsongrit throws out the jab.
Graves throws a series of punches but Sitsongrit moves out of range.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
A telegraphed right hand from Sitsongrit misses the target. #T2#
Graves fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Sitsongrit looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Sitsongrit moves away.
Sitsongrit throws a counter combo.
Graves scores with a nice strike.
Sitsongrit takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Graves looks to throw the jab but Sitsongrit is out of range.
Sitsongrit looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Graves uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Nice cross by Graves.
Sitsongrit staying out of range there.
Sitsongrit scores with the left hand. Graves knows he should have avoided that one.
Graves misses with a hook. Sitsongrit ducked under it nicely.
Graves scores with a nice right hand.
Sitsongrit takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Sitsongrit throws a jab when Graves was well out of range.
Ernest Graves is winning the standup battle so far.
Graves misses with a hook. Sitsongrit ducked under it nicely.
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Sitsongrit can do to turn this around?#T3#
Graves with a jab.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Sitsongrit takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Sitsongrit looks to land a combination but Graves avoids it well.
Graves throwing a counter right hand but Sitsongrit manages to avoid it.
Graves punishes Sitsongrit's body with a nice straight punch.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Sitsongrit does a little dance to reset his feet.
Sitsongrit looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Sitsongrit ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
Sitsongrit misses the jab.
Graves darts in looking for a takedown but Sitsongrit gets double underhooks and turns Graves into the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ernest Graves. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves slips a jab and a cross from Sitsongrit.
Sitsongrit takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Graves works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Sitsongrit stuffs the takedown attempt from Graves. Graves gets slowly back to his feet.
Sitsongrit throws a hook but Graves avoids it easily.#T4#
Graves missing with a left hand there. Sitsongrit was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Sitsongrit! But no joy.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nice defenses there by Sitsongrit.
Sitsongrit misses with a hook.
Sitsongrit lands a jab to the head.
Graves drops his hands momentarily and Sitsongrit takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Sitsongrit throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Sitsongrit blocks a jab.
Sitsongrit lands a jab to the nose.
Graves misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Sitsongrit uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Graves scores with a hook.
Graves jabs Sitsongrit to the body, keeping him at a distance.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're 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.
#R3#
Graves tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Sitsongrit manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
A swing and a miss from Graves.
A little jabbing left from Sitsongrit on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Sitsongrit steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Graves.
As Graves backs off Sitsongrit throws a huge counter combo but Graves manages to avoid it all.
Graves scores with a hook.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Sitsongrit moves away.
A countering left hand to the body from Sitsongrit misses.
Sitsongrit has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Sitsongrit there as he acknowledges the shot.
Graves looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
A telegraphed right hand from Graves misses the target.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Sitsongrit does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
Sitsongrit unleashes a big counter combination but Graves bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
No joy there for Graves, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Sitsongrit ducks right into an uppercut from Graves.
Sitsongrit ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Graves moves away.
Graves scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.#T1#
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Sitsongrit uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Graves.
Sitsongrit slips under a jab.
Graves lands a body shot.
Sitsongrit feints a jab promting Graves to slip. Sitsongrit then demonstrates his capabilities by jabbing again. Graves slips again and ducks right into an uppercut.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Sitsongrit throws out the jab.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Graves.
Graves tries to clinch but Sitsongrit moves out of range.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Graves.
Sitsongrit throws a counter combo.
Graves fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.#T2#
Sitsongrit closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves lands a nice looking body shot.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Sitsongrit has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Sitsongrit slips under a jab.
Sitsongrit swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves looks to land a left hand but Sitsongrit moved out of range nicely.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Graves is defended easily by Sitsongrit.
Graves with a body punch. A glancing blow.
A telegraphed right hand from Graves misses the target.
As Graves backs off Sitsongrit throws a huge counter combo but Graves manages to avoid it all.#T3#
Graves scores with a decent looking hook.
Graves scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Graves fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Sitsongrit misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Good exchange - Graves coming out on top.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Sitsongrit manages to avoid it.
Graves lands the left hand.
Julio Cesar Sitsongrit has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Graves scores with a jab. Sitsongrit acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Sitsongrit listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Graves lands with a good body shot.
Graves throws a shot from downtown. Sitsongrit moves away and avoids it.
Graves throws a good cross that connects.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves walks into a jab.
Graves misses the shot to the body. #T4#
Sitsongrit throws a hook but Graves blocks it.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Sitsongrit changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Graves loads up on a big right hand but Sitsongrit slips the punch.
Nice body punch from Graves.
Nice jab there from Sitsongrit.
Sitsongrit misses with a jab, cross combination.
Sitsongrit might want to mix his strikes up a bit more. He's just going for head shots at the moment and that can become a bit predictable.
Sitsongrit keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Graves lands with a cross.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Ernest Graves is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
A shot to the liver by Graves. Beautiful body shot.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight 30:27
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 30:27
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

A relieved looking Ernest Graves thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

 

Event: RISE 118 Stoddler v Graves     
Date:   Nov 29, 2019
#R1#
Graves closes the distance and clinches up with Stoddler, looking for a takedown. Graves pushes Stoddler against the cage but Stoddler circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Stoddler throws a counter high kick but Graves was just alert enough to avoid it.
Graves fails with the takedown
and Stoddler cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Graves misses with a takedown
and Stoddler counters with a nice uppercut. #CUT#
It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Tud Stoddler has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
Stoddler looks to land a right hand but Graves moved out of range.
Graves shoots in looking for a takedown. Stoddler tries to sprawl out of it but Graves keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Stoddler manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Stoddler throws a jab but it's blocked by Graves.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Stoddler.
Graves misses with a takedown attempt #KD#
and Stoddler counters with a crisp one two that drops Graves! Stoddler thinks about following him to the mat for a moment but instead steps back and waves Graves to his feet! Graves is in big trouble!#ROC#
Graves is rocked!#TD2#
Graves scores with a takedown into Stoddler's guard.
Graves is still in real trouble! Can Stoddler finish him?
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Stoddler looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it. #T1#
Graves seems to have recovered his senses.
Graves postures up.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Graves passes Stoddler's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Graves thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Stoddler's head.
Stoddler is in a tricky position but he's been working on his transitions down at The Jungle Room, so we'll see if he gets out of it.
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but Stoddler is holding on for dear life with his legs. #SUB2#
Graves is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Stoddler controlling the position for now.#T2#
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.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Stoddler is defending well.
Stoddler is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Stoddler is pressing down on Graves's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Stoddler trying to keep a closed guard but Graves is proving a slippery customer.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Stoddler is retaining full guard. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.#T3##CL2#
Graves pushes Stoddler up against the cage in a clinch.
Graves has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Stoddler avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
A right handed body shot lands from Stoddler.
Graves wants a takedown.
Stoddler makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Stoddler misses with a body punch.
Stoddler tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Stoddler lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Stoddler tries a body shot but Graves blocks it.
A short body shot lands from Graves as the two fighters clinch.
Graves is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Stoddler is defending well.
Graves tries for a takedown but Stoddler manages to get underhooks.
Stoddler fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Stoddler lands with a light punch inside.
Stoddler doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Graves misses with a body punch.
Stoddler scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Stoddler prevents the takedown attempt. #T4#
Stoddler tries to break free but Graves pushes him back against the cage.
Stoddler is pressed up against the cage. Graves has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Stoddler down to the mat. Stoddler avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Graves shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Stoddler as he jumps to the side.
Stoddler swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Nice defenses there by Graves.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Stoddler as he avoids it easily.
Graves looks for a takedown but Stoddler sprawls well.
Stoddler lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Graves circles away quickly and effectively.
Graves shoots in but Stoddler avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Stoddler cracks Graves with a good jab.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Tud Stoddler dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ernest Graves's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!
#R2#
Stoddler leaves Graves with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Graves.
Stoddler throwing a counter right hand but Graves manages to avoid it.
A swing and a miss from Stoddler.
Stoddler misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves.
Graves shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Stoddler pinned against the cage. Stoddler gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Tud Stoddler has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ernest Graves.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Graves tries for a takedown but Stoddler circles away easily
and Stoddler counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Graves fails with the takedown.#T1#
Stoddler with a hook.
Graves will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Graves looks up at the clock. Bad move! Stoddler lands a right hand from hell, dropping Graves. Stoddler pounces and finishes the fight with a flurry of punches and elbows.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:26 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tud Stoddler!
Tud Stoddler retains his lightweight title!
Tud Stoddler bigged himself up after the win. The crowd seemed to love it.

 

Event: RISE 108 Snowdon v Togashi     
Date:   Oct 26, 2019
#R1#
Starman blocks a jab.#CL2#
Starman clinches with his opponent.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Graves.
Starman struggles to land a body shot inside as Graves controls his hands.
Starman misses with a short punch on the inside.
Graves misses with some punches.
Starman trying to land knees to the body.
Starman pushes Graves back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
We've been informed that Starman has been sparring a lot of Muay Thai in the buildup to this fight so let's see if that has an impact on the result.
Graves avoiding damage as Starman throws knees to the body.
Graves cracks Starman with a nice body shot.
Graves misses with a punch on the inside.
Graves misses with a short punch on the inside.
Starman misses with a body punch.
Graves tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Graves lands a left hand.
Graves lands a shoulder strike.
Nice body punch from Graves.
Graves working aggressively here.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Starman struggles to land a body shot inside as Graves controls his hands. #T1#
Starman wants to push off and get back to the center of the mat but Graves has him pressed against the cage.#TD#
Graves has moved round to his opponent's back and is looking for a suplex! Oh snap! He's tossed Starman clear over his head and slammed him to the mat!
Starman is in a world of trouble here. He's outmatched on the ground here and he'd better get Graves off his back sharpish unless he wants to be submitted.#SUB#
Graves is staying calm and holding on to the back position, whilst working on a rear naked choke. Starman is defending well though. Graves let's go of the attempt for now.
Will Graves go for the finish here or will he try and keep control of the position? #SUB#
Graves is working for the choke. I would put my money on him to finish from this position. He's rolled onto his back and has dragged Starman with him. Starman is trying to defend but Graves has an arm under the chin now! Starman grimaces and is forced to tap out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:48 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Ernest Graves!
An out of breath Ernest Graves thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.
John Starman spoke after the fight, saying 'Come on not again!'.

 

Event: RISE 101 Paa v Kilpatrick     
Date:   Oct 05, 2019
#R1#
Graves fails to land with a series of punches.
A right-left combo lands from Curry. #CUT2#
It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Curry thuds a left hand into Graves's body.
Curry pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Graves connects with a nice looking jab.
Graves takes a swing at Curry's ribcage but misses.
Curry throws a counter combo.
Graves slips a jab from Curry.
Curry throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
A countering left hand to the body from Curry misses.
Curry tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Curry.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves lands a jab to the head.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Graves takes one to the side of the head. #T1#
Graves connects with a nice looking jab.
Curry slips a jab from Graves.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Curry's coach down at Touch Butt in the Park was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Curry's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
Curry tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Curry.
Curry tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Curry.
Graves rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Curry counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Curry throws the left hand but Graves avoids the punch easily.#CL#
Graves gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Curry lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Curry misses with a hook from the clinch. #BC2#
Curry's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Curry's jab looks to have found its range, popping Graves under the eye.
Curry uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Graves.
Graves connects with a crisp jab. #T2#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Decent striking displayed by Graves there.
Decent striking displayed by Graves there.
Graves fakes the body blow, causing Curry to drop his hands! Left hook to the temple! Curry goes stiff, and falls face first into the mat. Goodnight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:19 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Ernest Graves!
A relieved looking Ernest Graves thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

 

Event: RISE 94 Falcone v Butabi     
Date:   Sep 07, 2019
#R1#
Smith looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Graves's corner calls for a 1-2. Graves obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range. #CUT#
It looks like Scott Smith has been cut.
Graves lands a nice shot that snaps Smith's head back.
Smith fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Nice sprawl there from Graves as Smith shoots in.
Ernest Graves has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Scott Smith.
Graves pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Smith misses with a takedown attempt - Graves sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.#TD#
Graves gets the takedown into side control.
Smith looking for a sweep but Graves has passed into full mount! Oh no!
Graves prevents Smith from getting the reversal.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Smith is trying to escape the mount but Graves keeps good control and instead manages to take Smith's back.
Smith just trying to survive but Graves is wriggling into a better position, looking to finish.
Smith tries to roll but Graves sticks to his back. #T1#
Smith is still trying to improve position.#SUB#
Smith is displaying good submission defense - not really looking in danger of submitting to the rear naked choke at the moment. That could change in an instant of course if Graves gets his way! #SUB#
Graves is looking for the choke from the back position but Smith is controlling his hands well.
Graves is hanging on to Smith's back as he tries to escape.
Graves is throwing punches to the body, looking to soften Smith up.
Graves is not going to allow Smith to sit and survive in this position.
Smith is really stuck here.
Graves tries to get the hooks in deep but Smith pushed the leg off. #SUB#
Graves looking to break Smith's wrist control so he can sink in the choke. Smith remaining controlled and patient though - he really has to keep calm otherwise Graves will wrap this one up with the rear naked choke!
Graves trying to secure his dominant position for a moment - making sure Smith doesn't escape.
Smith just trying to survive but Graves is wriggling into a better position, looking to finish. #T2#
Smith is keeping busy.
Graves has the hooks in. Smith is trying to push off one leg but he has to do so cautiously to avoid being submitted.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Graves is throwing punches to the body, looking to soften Smith up. #SUB#
Graves working for a choke but Smith is defending well.
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!
Graves trying to control momentarily. #SUB#
Graves looking for the choke from the back.
Smith manages to reverse the position and now he's in Graves's guard. Nice work there by Smith.
Smith trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T3#
Graves keeping full guard, as Smith tries to pass.
Graves bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Smith's guard. #REVR#
Graves passes Smith's right leg, so he's now in half guard. #SUB2#
Smith with the active half guard here but Graves passes nicely into side control.
Smith takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
Smith is looking for a sweep.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves moves into full mount!
Graves lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Graves trying to control but he's not successful this time. #T4#
Smith is trying to escape the mount.
Smith is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Smith is wriggling around here but as he tries to escape, Graves has taken his back.
Smith is trying to break free.
Smith trying to control the hands but Graves breaks the grip.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#SUB#
Graves patiently working for the choke. Which fighter will keep their nerve here?
Graves keeps control of the position as Smith tries to break free.
Graves not allowing Smith to control his hands. #SUB#
Graves 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, Smith has freed his hand and lives to survive another… well, another couple of seconds at least!
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Scott Smith's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.
#R2#
Smith takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Smith looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Graves is fending him off so far but Smith persists. Nope, Graves circles away and we're back to standing.
Smith goes for a double leg but Graves avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Graves continues to drive forward.
Smith shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Ernest Graves has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Scott Smith.
Smith shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Smith takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Jab, jab by Graves - just one landing. #ROC#
Smith is rocked!
Smith throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Graves's waist but Graves gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Smith off to one side.
It looked like Graves wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Graves lands a jab and follows it up with a massive straight that knocks Smith out cold! Smith is crumpled in the corner, his head only propped up by the cage! That's one for the organiziational promos right there! Wow, what a finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:42 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Punches). Ernest Graves!
An out of breath Ernest Graves thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: RISE 88: Petrov vs. Mason 2     
Date:   Aug 07, 2019
#R1#
Pentele feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Gravess jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Pentele staying out of range there.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Pentele.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Pentele was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Pentele throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Pentele throws a leg kick which misses Graves's front leg but catches the back leg as Graves tries to avoid it.
Graves avoids a punch combination nicely.
Pentele has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Malmi Aitta in the buildup to the fight.
Graves throws a hook but Pentele blocks it.
Pentele is looking for a counter combo.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Pentele ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
Nice shot by Graves.#CUT2#
It looks like Pentti Pentele has been cut.
Pentele with a body punch. A glancing blow. #TD2#
Graves shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves wants to pass to mount but Pentele is defending the position. #T1#
Pentele controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.
Graves passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Pentele!
Graves 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.
Graves throws some wild stikes that Pentele manages to avoid easily.
Graves wants to take his opponent's back but instead Pentele manages to regain half guard.
Graves looking to pass the half guard. Not this time. #T2#
Graves is looking to pass Pentele's guard but actually Pentele recovers to full guard.
Pentele has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Graves stopping the sweep attempt from Pentele.
Pentele has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Pentele can't keep his opponent in guard - Graves advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount. #T3#
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Graves prevents Pentele from improving his position.
Pentele is not content to let Graves control the position.#SUB2#
Graves is trying to work for a kimura but Pentele is defending well.
Graves wants to free his trapped foot but Pentele is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Pentele tries to get to full guard but Graves has control of the leg.
Pentele is looking to control Graves's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Pentele avoid being mounted?
Pentele is not content to let Graves control the position.#T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Pentele keeping hold of Graves's head, controlling as best he can.
Graves is trying to control the action in half guard but Pentele is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Pentele moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Graves passes easily into side control. Nice work.#SUB2#
Graves tries for a kimura but Pentele is defending well.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Pentele tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Graves wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Who's going to make the next move?
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Pentti Pentele's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!
#R2#
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Pentele does a little dance to reset his feet.
A swing and a miss from Graves.
Good standup being displayed there by Pentele as he connects with a hook.
Graves throws a hook but Pentele blocks it.
Pentele goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Graves throws a right hand that misses
and Pentele counters with a left to the body.
Pentele throws a half hearted mid kick.
Pentele lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Pentti Pentele is winning the standup battle so far.
Pentele lands a nice looking body shot.
Pentele staying out of range there.
Pentele scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Pentele on the side of the head.
Pentele takes one to the chin there.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves blocks a jab.
A big left from Graves misses.
Pentele chopping away at his opponent's legs. #T1#
Graves misses the jab.
Graves takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Graves throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Pentele counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Pentele with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Graves takes a push kick to the midsection and stumbles backwards.
Pentele jabs Graves to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Graves misses with an uppercut. Pentele saw that one coming.
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Pentele connects with a body shot.
Pentele displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Graves throws out the jab.
Pentele looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Pentele was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves misses with an uppercut. Pentele saw that one coming.
Graves swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches. #T2#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves misses with a looping right.
Pentele scores with a punch to the head.
Graves connects with a body shot.
Pentele connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Pentele lands with a cross.
Graves throws a lazy uppercut
letting Pentele counter with a right hand.
Graves takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Pentele swings away with a body shot that misses
and Graves cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Graves drops his hands momentarily and Pentele takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Graves takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Graves throws a body punch but Pentele moves out of range.
Graves takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Graves tries to move into range but Pentele moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Pentele staying out of range there.
Graves gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Pentele.#T3#
Graves throws a looping overhand right but Pentele ducks down to avoid it.
Pentele throws a head kick that half lands.
Pentele throws a leg kick but Graves checks it.
Graves is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Graves throws a lazy right hand but Pentele sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Pentele getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Pentele throws a leg kick but Graves sees it coming and checks it nicely.
Graves misses with an uppercut
and Pentele counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Pentele is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Graves can do to turn this around?
Graves takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Graves's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Pentele connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Graves scrambles back to his feet.
Pentti Pentele is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Pentele moves out of range of the strikes.
It looked like Pentele wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Pentele fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Graves looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Pentele misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves.
Pentele tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Pentele.
Graves missing with a left hand there. Pentele was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Pentele swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.#T4#
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Pentele moves away.
Pentele was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Pentele throws a jab when Graves was well out of range.
Graves looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Graves takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Pentele scores with a hook to the body. Graves takes a step back and tries to catch his breath. #CL2#
Graves instigates a clinch.
Graves scores with a shoulder strike.
Graves goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Graves working aggressively here. #BC2#
Graves pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Pentele throws a body shot but no joy.
A nice side step and Graves releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Graves lands with a good body shot.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Pentele waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
Pentele ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
Pentele is looking to counter punch.
Graves throws a poor cross that misses
and Pentele counters with a stiff right hand.
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Pentele.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Pentti Pentele dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Pentti Pentele's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Pentele throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Graves displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Pentele throws out the jab.
Pentele clobbers Graves with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Pentele's corner calls for a 1-2. Pentele obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Pentele throws a jab but it's blocked by Graves.
Nice defenses there by Graves.
Graves works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
A looping hook to the body misses from Pentele. Graves does a little dance to reset his feet.
Pentele misses with a body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves throws a hook but Pentele avoids it easily.
A little feinted left hand from Pentele on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Pentele slips under a jab from Graves.
Graves takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Nice jab there from Pentele.
Pentele throws a series of punches but Graves avoids them all with ease. #T1#
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Pentele, as that shot connected.
Pentele sizes up Graves with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Pentele fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Graves has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Nice shot by Pentele.
Pentele throws a leg kick but Graves moved away.
Pentele does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.
Pentele swings away with a body shot that misses
and Graves counters with a nice body shot.
A swing and a miss from Pentele.
Graves throws a jab when Pentele was well out of range.
Nice defenses there by Pentele.
A low kick from Pentele misses
and Graves counters with a straight right hand.
Graves lands with an overhand left.
Graves walks into a stiff left hand from Pentele.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves misses with an uppercut
and Graves takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Ernest Graves has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Pentti Pentele is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T2#
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Pentele moves away.
Pentele looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Pentele connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Pentele scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Graves has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Graves jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Graves uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Pentele.
Graves is the more experienced fighter here and he's going to need to draw on some of that experience if he's going to pull this one out the bag.
Graves throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Pentele swings and misses with a shot to the body#KD2#
and Graves counters with a crisp one two that drops Pentele! Graves thinks about following him to the mat for a moment but instead steps back and waves Pentele to his feet! Pentele is in big trouble!#ROC2#
Pentele is rocked!
Pentele connects with a looping right hand.
Oh Pentele is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
The sound of bone on bone echoes around the arena as Graves checks a leg kick.
Graves misses with a straight right.
Pentele seems to have got his legs back now.
Graves throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves cracks Pentele with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Graves throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Pentele counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#T3#
Graves misses with an uppercut
and Pentele counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Graves fails with the takedown
and Pentele counters with a left to the body.
Graves misses with a hook to the body
and Pentele cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Pentele connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Pentele bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Pentele does a little dance to reset his feet.
Pentele catches Graves with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Pentele takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Pentele will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away.
Graves drops his hands momentarily and Pentele takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Graves misses with a few strikes there.
Pentele swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Pentele uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Pentele swings for the body but Graves moves out of range. #T4#
Graves throws a big shot that misses.
Graves walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Pentele misses with a straight left.
Pentele scores with a crisp jab that stopped Graves in his tracks.
Graves takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Graves misses with a hook
and Pentele counters with a left to the body.
Graves throws a shot to the body.
Graves lands a jab to Pentele's midsection.
Pentele takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Graves keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Pentele.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Graves walks into a straight right hand from Pentele.
Graves takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?
Graves misses the body punch
and Pentele counters with a stiff right hand.

And that's the end of the fight!
Pentti Pentele showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Pentele 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 Timothy Bukovac scores the fight for Pentti Pentele!
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight for Pentti Pentele!
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight for Pentti Pentele!

Pentti Pentele wins by unanimous decision!

Pentti Pentele opened up his post fight interview with a scream to camera that he wants a title shot! Whether he deserves the shot will be up to the management of the organization, so I guess he'll have to wait and see.

 

Event: RISE 82 - King of the Jungle     
Date:   Jul 08, 2019
#R1#
Merlin swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Merlin slips under a jab.
Graves defending well as Merlin loads up on a big left hand.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Graves has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Merlin finds it's way round the side to connect with Graves's head.
Graves misses with an uppercut #TD#
and Merlin decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Graves's guard.
Graves 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.
Merlin trying to control but Graves is working from the bottom.
Graves lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB##SUB#
Graves avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #SUB#
Merlin looking for a guillotine here but Graves defends easily. #SUB#
Merlin is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle. #T1#
Graves stands and throws Merlin's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Merlin is looking for a sweep.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Merlin wants to control but Graves postures up.
Merlin gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Graves tries to pass the half guard into mount. Merlin knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
The fighters are battling for position here. Merlin manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Merlin seems to have improved his submission grappling technique since last time we saw him. Let's see if he can pull off a submission.
Merlin looking for a sweep. Not yet Merlin, not yet.
Merlin has momentary wrist control but Graves slips an elbow through the middle.#SUB#
Merlin is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Merlin can't keep his opponent in guard - Graves advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount. #T2#
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Graves looking to pass the half guard. Not this time. #SUB#
Merlin looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Graves works his way into side control.
Graves trying to control the position but Merlin is working away. #SUB2#
Graves wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Merlin, who protects the arm well.
Merlin is looking to reverse the position.#SUB2#
Graves tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T3#
Merlin is trying to control Graves's posture but Graves avoids it.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Merlin is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Graves moves into full mount! #SUB2#
Graves is working for a guillotine from mount but Merlin frees his head quite easily.
Graves with good strikes from the mount here!
Merlin really trying hard to get back to half guard here. #T4#
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Merlin is looking to escape.
Merlin can't escape the position.
Graves lands a couple of good shots and Merlin has given up his back, trying to escape the position!
Will Graves go for the finish here or will he try and keep control of the position? #SUB2#
Graves is staying calm and holding on to the back position, whilst working on a rear naked choke. Merlin is defending well though. Graves let's go of the attempt for now.
Will Graves go for the finish here or will he try and keep control of the position? #SUB2#
Graves patiently working for the choke. Which fighter will keep their nerve here?#SUB2#
Merlin showing good submission defense here. #SUB2#
Merlin is staying cool under pressure, defending well against the rear naked choke attempt from his opponent.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.
#R2#
Merlin lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Merlin thuds his right hand into Graves's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Merlin drops down looking for a counter takedown but Graves sprawls and moves away.
Merlin takes one on the chin but keeps coming. #ROC2#
Merlin is rocked!
Graves throws a jab but it's blocked by Merlin.
Oh Merlin is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Graves has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Graves cracks Merlin on the jaw with a powerful right hand and Merlin falls backwards against the cage. Graves follows up with more strikes that drop Merlin to his knees. Graves keeps the pressure on and the referee jumps in to save Merlin! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:33 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
A relieved looking Ernest Graves thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

 

Event: RFL-79 Bartoli Vs. Kondo 2     
Date:   Jun 08, 2019
#R1#
Graves throws a poor cross that misses
and Stoddler counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Graves takes one on the chin but keeps coming. #CUT2#
It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Today's fight clock is brought to you by... OOOH that's a huge shot by Stoddler! Graves is in big trouble here - the ref steps in to save him and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:16 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tud Stoddler!
Our winner, Tud Stoddler, 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: RFL-76 Paa Vs. Middle Weight     
Date:   May 18, 2019
#R1#
Graves misses with a hook
and Bayushi connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#CUT2#
It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves throws a hook but Bayushi avoids it easily.
Graves misses with a wild combination.
Bayushi wants to land a leg kick but Graves is out of range.
Nice uppercut lands for Bayushi. That snapped Graves's head back.
Bayushi throws a body shot but no joy.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Bayushi moves away.
Graves lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Bayushi circles away quickly and effectively.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A cross from Graves lands.
Bayushi tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Bayushi is looking to score with low kicks.
Graves throws an off balance right hand
and Bayushi counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Graves defending well as Bayushi loads up on a big left hand.
Bayushi 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.#T1#
Graves works the jab nicely.
Graves misses with a right hand
and Bayushi counters with a left right combination that sends Graves crashing to the mat - Bayushi wastes no time in diving on top of him and pounding Graves out for a TKO! Devastating finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:15 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Shoju Bayushi!
Our winner, Shoju Bayushi, 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: RFL- 74 FE Vs. UTH 2     
Date:   Apr 27, 2019
#R1#
Graves looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Stoddler dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves takes one to the chin there.#CUT2#
It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Stoddler displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Graves. #TD#
Graves fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Stoddler sprawls well initially but Graves persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Graves trying to pass the guard but Stoddler defending well.
Stoddler is looking to control Graves's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Stoddler avoid being mounted?
Stoddler is looking to improve his position.
Stoddler regains full guard. Nicely done. #T1#
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Stoddler is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Stoddler is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Stoddler keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Stoddler has his hands on Graves's head, controlling the position.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Stoddler swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Graves looking to pass the guard. #T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
Stoddler is adopting a defensive guard.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Stoddler steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Graves.
A cross from Graves lands.#CUT#
It looks like Tud Stoddler has been cut.
Graves fails with the takedown
and Stoddler counters with a straight right hand.
Stoddler connects with a body shot that sends Graves's belly button to the back.
Tud Stoddler is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Graves walks into a straight right hand from Stoddler.
Graves throws out a powerful jab.
Stoddler loads up on a big right hand but Graves slips the punch.
The fighters circling - Stoddler throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Graves thuds a left hand into Stoddler's body.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Stoddler 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 Graves has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Graves and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.#T3#
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Stoddler now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Stoddler jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Graves moves away from the strike by Stoddler.
Graves is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Stoddler to score with a decent uppercut.#ROC2#
Graves is rocked!
Stoddler throws the left hand but Graves avoids the punch easily.
Graves is looking to counter punch.
Graves misses with a body punch
enabling Stoddler to counter with a crisp jab.
Oh Graves is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Nice jab there from Stoddler.
Graves takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
A slapping leg kick lands for Stoddler.
Stoddler cracks Graves with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Stoddler works Graves's body with a nice hook.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Stoddler throws a nice inside leg kick.
Stoddler lands a jab to Graves's midsection.
Stoddler throws an overhand right that drops Graves like a sack of potatoes! Stoddler dives in to finish the fight with more strikes and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tud Stoddler!
Tud Stoddler is the new lightweight champion!
After winning the bout, Tud Stoddler thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: RFLFN-22 Morris Vs. Graves     
Date:   Apr 10, 2019
#R1#
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Morris does a little dance to reset his feet.
Morris cracks Graves with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Graves looks to land a left hand but Morris moved out of range nicely.#CL2#
Graves has managed to clinch.
Morris gets through Graves's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Graves trying to stall but Morris improves his position.
Graves's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Graves struggles to land a body shot inside as Morris controls his hands.
Graves lands with a short shot to the head.
Graves lands a left hand.
Graves blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Morris misses with some punches.
A short right from Graves on the inside.
Graves lands with a right to the head.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Morris takes a shot to the head.
Both fighters working to control the clinch.
Morris misses with a punch on the inside.
Morris lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Morris tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Graves's elbow.
Morris scores with a nice hook to the head.#T1#
Morris stalling.
Graves digs a right hand underneath Morris's ribcage. Morris let out a lung full of air as it connected.
Graves lands a hook to the side of the head.
Graves throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
Graves makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
A right handed body shot lands from Graves.
Morris misses with the head strike.
Graves misses with the head strike.
A head punch on the inside from Morris fails to land. #BC2#
Graves's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Morris looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Morris on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Morris slips under a jab.
Morris throws a leg kick
and Graves counters with a straight right hand.
Graves cracks a nice hook into Morris's ribs.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Morris finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt. #TD2#
Graves closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth. #T2#
Morris tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Graves tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
Graves advances nicely into full mount.
Graves looking to control but Morris is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Morris has given up his back here. Will Graves look for the submission or keep pounding away?
Well, with Graves on his back, surely it's only a matter of time before Morris is tapping out... Can he escape the position?#SUB2#
Morris is staying cool under pressure, defending well against the rear naked choke attempt from his opponent.
Despite being in a bad position, Morris is controlling the hands, preventing any submission attempts. #T3#
Graves wants to control but Morris is keeping busy.#SUB2#
Graves patiently working for the choke. Which fighter will keep their nerve here?#SUB2#
Graves patiently working for the choke. Which fighter will keep their nerve here?
Graves trying desperately to keep hold of the dominant position. #SUB2#
Morris defending nicely against the rear naked choke attempt.
Graves controlling the position well here. Morris rolled but Graves kept the hooks locked in and stayed in the dominant position. #T4##SUB2#
Graves is working for a rear naked choke. Morris is not defending it well and Graves has tightened it up quickly! This could be all over! Morris refuses to tap and goes to sleep, forcing the referee to intervene. A little trickle of blood came out of Morris's nose as his head slumped to the floor. That is naaaasty!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:23 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves is the new lightweight champion!
Ernest Graves seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.
Nick Morris spoke after the fight, saying 'bboriiing'.

 

Event: RFL-71     
Date:   Apr 06, 2019
#R1#
Graves connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Bayushi momentarily.
Graves looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Bayushi throws out a powerful jab.#CUT2#
It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves doesn't manage to clinch there - Bayushi circles away.
Graves smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Graves thuds his right hand into Bayushi's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.#ROC#
Bayushi is rocked!
Bayushi misses with an uppercut
and Graves counters with a beautiful right hand that knocks Bayushi out cold! What a finish! Graves 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 0:38 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Ernest Graves!
A relieved looking Ernest Graves thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.
In defeat, Shoju Bayushi stepped up to the mic, saying 'The biggest thing I learned from losing? Winning is better.'.

 

Event: RFLFN-18 Morris Vs.Valdez     
Date:   Mar 13, 2019
#R1#
Smith shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Graves counters with a left to the body.
Graves throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Smith stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Graves throws a looping overhand right but Smith ducks down to avoid it.
Smith fails with a takedown attempt.
A countering left hand to the body from Graves misses.
Nice jab there from Graves.
Smith misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Scott Smith. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves scores with a jab to the jaw.
A jab from Graves finds it's way through Smith's defenses.
Today's fight clock is brought to you by... OOOH that's a huge shot by Graves! Smith is in big trouble here - the ref steps in to save him and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:46 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

 

Event: RFLFN-15 HHW vs. Farina     
Date:   Feb 20, 2019
#R1#
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Valdez does a little dance to reset his feet.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Valdez walks into a jab.#CUT2#
It looks like DeMario Valdez has been cut.
Donk. Valdez catches Graves right on the button with a cross.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Valdez is just out of range.
Graves misses with a shot to the body
letting Valdez counter with a right hand.
Valdez scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Graves changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Valdez bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Valdez throws a jab when Graves was well out of range.
Graves throws an off balance right hand
and Valdez counters with a nice uppercut.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Graves lands a nice looking body shot.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Valdez manages to avoid it.
Graves needs to keep his hands up - Valdez had a free shot at his head there.
Nice defenses there by Graves.
Valdez takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Valdez keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves blocks a jab.#T1#
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Valdez was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Graves is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Valdez rather than just go for the knockout.
Valdez fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Graves manages to avoid it.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Valdez manages to avoid it.
Valdez is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Graves takes a swing at Valdez's ribcage but misses.
Graves on the wrong end of a nice hook.
It looks like Valdez has been trying to sharpen up his punching technique, as it looks crisper than last time we saw him.
A big right from Valdez misses.
Graves swings away with a body shot that misses
and Valdez counters with a straight right hand.#ROC#
Graves is rocked!
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves is still on wobbly legs! Can Valdez finish him?
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves seems to have recovered his senses.
Graves scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Graves takes a swing at Valdez's ribcage but misses.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Valdez scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Valdez lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Valdez manages to avoid it.
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!
Valdez avoids the body shot from Graves.
Valdez throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Valdez misses with a straight left.
Graves feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Valdezs jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Valdez. #T2#
Graves throws a jab but it's blocked by Valdez.
Nice jab there from Valdez.
Valdez is really peppering his opponent's head with punches.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Valdez scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Valdez looks to land a left hand but Graves moved out of range nicely.
Graves sizes up Valdez with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Graves moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Valdez keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Valdez is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Graves walks into a jab.
Graves throws a body punch but Valdez moves out of range.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Today's fight clock is brought to you by... OOOH that's a huge shot by Valdez! Graves is in big trouble here - the ref steps in to save him and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:49 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). DeMario Valdez!
DeMario Valdez bigged himself up after the win. The crowd seemed to love it.

 

Event: RFLFN-12 LHW vs. Shadow     
Date:   Jan 29, 2019
#R1#
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Dasilva on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Dasilva shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Graves sprawls well. Graves wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Dasilva gets slowly back to his feet.#TD#
Dasilva drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Graves manages to get back to half guard.#SUB2#
Graves looking for submissions off his back.
Dasilva works his way into full mount!
Graves is working to get back to half guard.
Dasilva with some aggressive grappling here, looking for the finish. #T1#
Graves is trying desperately to improve position.
Graves manages to regain half guard. Good work.
Graves gets full guard.
Dasilva passes into half guard.
Graves tries to roll over but Dasilva keeps him under control.
Graves is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Dasilva's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Dasilva's back!
Dasilva is trying to break free.
Dasilva is in a tricky position but he's been working on his transitions down at Far-Q Fight Club, so we'll see if he gets out of it.
Dasilva tries to escape the position - he's now mounted. Is that better or worse? Hard to tell!
Dasilva is looking to improve his position but Graves isn't that keen on the idea.#T2#
Dasilva tries to hold on but Graves pushes him away. #SUB2#
Graves jumps to side control looking for an arm triangle but Dasilva manages to avoid the submission attempt.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Dasilva is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Dasilva prevents Graves from improving position.
Graves trying to control the action but Dasilva is working from the bottom.
This fight is sponsored by Chainsaw 7. More blood and guts and stuff like that, in cinemas everywhere now!#T3#
Dasilva is trying to control Graves's posture but Graves avoids it.
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Dasilva is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #SUB2#
Graves tries for a kimura but Dasilva is defending well.
Graves tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
Dasilva is not content to let Graves control the position. #T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Graves working the strikes but Dasilva uses the opportunity to regain half guard.
Dasilva is trying to control but can't.
Graves tries to pass to full mount but Dasilva defends it.
Dasilva is looking for a sweep. Graves is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Dasilva trying to control from the bottom.
Graves is trying to advance to mount but he's lost his balance and Dasilva reverses the position - he's now on top in Graves's guard.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Graves is on top in guard. #REVB#
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.
#R2##TD#
Dasilva feints and as Graves raises his hands in defense, Dasilva changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Dasilva seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up.
Dasilva wants to control from the top but Graves keeps moving.
Dasilva tries to free his leg and advance position but Graves is retaining full guard. #SUB2#
Graves throws his legs up looking for a submission but Dasilva uses it to pass to side control.
Graves has found himself in a tricky position here. He's been working his transitions in training so let's see if he can work his way out of it.#SUB#
Dasilva tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Dasilva has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Graves gets back to half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Dasilva is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Graves is trying to get back to full guard.#T1#
Dasilva is trying to control the action in half guard but Graves is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Graves wants to control but Dasilva is keeping busy.
Graves is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Graves makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Graves.
Graves 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.
Dasilva trying to control but Graves is working from the bottom.
Dasilva is really struggling to control Graves but he's trying to hold on to the position.
Dasilva postures up. #T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.#SUB2#
Graves looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Dasilva passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Dasilva working the head with strikes. #SUB#
Dasilva is trying to get an arm triangle but Graves is defending well.
Graves manages to work his way to half guard, despite Dasilva's best efforts.
Graves is staying active underneath Dasilva, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Dasilva performing his best blanket impression for a moment.
Graves slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Graves 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.#T3#
Dasilva tries to free his leg and advance position but Graves is retaining full guard.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Graves is on top in guard. #REVB#
Graves postures up.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Dasilva regains full guard. Nicely done.
Graves wants to control from the top but Dasilva keeps moving.
Dasilva is adopting a defensive guard.#T4#
Dasilva keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Humberto Dasilva overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Dasilva 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.
Graves wants to pass the guard but Dasilva is keeping the position.
Graves looking to sit in guard and control but Dasilva gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR#
Dasilva stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Graves swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Dasilva is working hard here to advance position.
Dasilva stands and throws Graves's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Graves can't do much from the bottom here.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Humberto Dasilva dominated that second round.
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. This is the final round!
#R3#
Dasilva takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Dasilva takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Dasilva lands a nice looking body shot.
Dasilva will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
A telegraphed right hand from Dasilva misses the target.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Dasilva throws a right hand that misses
and Dasilva takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Dasilva gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Graves counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Dasilva thinking.
Graves lands a slapping body shot.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Dasilva is just out of range.
Graves throws a shot to the body.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves slips a straight right by Dasilva.
Dasilva has a takedown stuffed.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Humberto Dasilva. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves lands a nice looking body shot.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Dasilva throws a jab when Graves was well out of range.#T1#
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Ernest Graves is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Dasilva scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Graves doesn't seem bothered though.
Graves throws a hook to the side of Dasilva's head but Dasilva sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Graves fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Dasilva manages to avoid it.
A little feinted left hand from Dasilva on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Dasilva misses with a hook
and Graves counters with a right hand to the body.
Dasilva lands with a good body shot.
Graves uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Dasilva.
Dasilva throws a right hand that misses
and Graves counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves throws a body punch but Dasilva moves out of range.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Dasilva lands with a straight right. Graves didn't see that one coming.
Dasilva tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Dasilva.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves scores with a shot to the body. #T2#
Graves digs a good hook to Dasilva's body.
Dasilva misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Dasilva has a takedown stuffed.
Ernest Graves seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Graves digs a good hook to Dasilva's body.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Dasilva is trying hard to land a takedown here. Graves sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Graves avoids the body shot from Dasilva.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Dasilva misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.#TD#
Graves gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Graves keeping moving, preventing Dasilva from controlling successfully. #T3#
Graves not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Dasilva slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Graves wants to sweep here but Dasilva controlling him for the moment.
Graves working a defensive guard here.
Dasilva looking to pass the guard.
Dasilva trying to control but Graves is working from the bottom.
Graves bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Dasilva's guard. #REVB##T4#
Dasilva looking to control.
Graves passes Dasilva's left leg - he's now in half guard.
Dasilva is trying to control but can't.
Dasilva is looking to get full guard. It looks like he might be successful but at the last minute Graves jumps into side control!#SUB2#
Graves is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Dasilva has escaped the position, nice work there.
Dasilva takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.#SUB2#
Graves thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Dasilva sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.

And that's the end of the fight!
Ernest Graves comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Graves has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Trevor Gratis scores the fight 28:29
Judge Dillan Fox scores the fight 28:29
Judge Yves DeLean scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

An out of breath Ernest Graves thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: RFLFN-9     
Date:   Jan 09, 2019
#R1#
Graves scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Graves lands a slapping body shot.
Spong tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Graves swivels and escapes.
Spong takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Spong has been working on his striking defense in training and it's paying off as Graves is landing a low percentage of strikes.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Graves thuds a left hand into Spong's body.
Graves dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Spong shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Graves jabs Spong to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Spong looks winded!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Spong takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Graves scores with a shot to the body.
Tyronne Spong seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Spong takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Graves jabs Spong to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Graves comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Graves jabs at Spong's body.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Spong is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.#TD2#
Spong gets a double leg takedown into Graves's guard.#SUB#
Graves has his feet on Spong's thighs here. He's pushed Spong off and worked for a very quick armbar from the bottom! He's flipped onto his stomach and he's cranking hard on the arm! Spong screams in pain and taps out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ernest Graves!
After winning the bout, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.
Tyronne Spong spoke after the fight, saying 'ill be back ,just didnt get the trainning right thats were i lost it '.

 

Event: RFL-53 No Limits     
Date:   Nov 24, 2018
#R1#
Graves works Brown's body with a nice hook.
Brown shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Graves sprawls well. Graves wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Brown gets slowly back to his feet.
Graves doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Brown takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
We've been told by Brown's head coaches at Kalashnikov ELITE MMA Gym that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Brown takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Brown shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Graves as he jumps to the side.
Graves thuds a left hand into Brown's body.
Brown shoots in for a takedown but Graves shows good takedown defense.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Joshua Brown. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Graves lands a body shot.
Graves throws a good cross that connects. #CUT2#
It looks like Joshua Brown has been cut.#KD2#
Graves feints and then winds up with a huge right hand that connects perfectly and sends Brown sprawling to the canvas! Brown rolls over backwards and springs off the cage and manages to regain his footing - how acrobatic! Oh, he's still wobbly - can Graves finish him?! #ROC2#
Brown is rocked!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves lands an uppercut, right on the button! Brown tumbles backwards into the cage, staring vacantly into space! He's got no idea where he is, who he is or what day it is... Poor guy.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:54 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Ernest Graves!
During a confident post fight interview, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.
Joshua Brown spoke after the fight, saying 'I will learn from this!!'.

 

Event: RFL-49     
Date:   Oct 27, 2018
#R1#
Schulz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Schulz.
Schulz misses with a few strikes there.
Graves moves away from the strike by Schulz.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Schulz manages to avoid it.
Schulz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves.
Schulz lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Schulz.
Schulz now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Schulz throws a hook to the side of Graves's head but Graves sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Schulz throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Schulz misses with a hook
and Graves counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.#CUT#
It looks like Armin Schulz has been cut.
Graves swings for the body but Schulz moves out of range.
Graves avoids the body shot from Schulz.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Graves definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Schulz lands with a good body shot.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Schulz uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Graves missing with a left hand there. Schulz was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Schulz! But no joy.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Schulz ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Schulz misses with a body shot
and Graves counters with a lovely straight right hand!#T1#
Graves checks a leg kick.
Graves swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Schulz avoids the body shot from Graves.
Schulz let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Schulz manages to avoid it.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Schulz was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves misses with a jab to the body
and Schulz counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Graves takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Graves scores with a nice head shot.
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
A quick step to the side and Graves tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Schulz takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Schulz takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Schulz throws a jab but it's blocked by Graves.
Graves lands a right hook to the body.
Graves takes a swing at Schulz's ribcage but misses.
Graves throws out a powerful jab.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Schulz keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Schulz moves away.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Schulz was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Schulz swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.#T2#
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Schulz was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
The fighters circling - Schulz throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Graves takes a swing at Schulz's ribcage but misses.
Graves thuds a left hand into Schulz's body.
Graves is looking to wear down Schulz with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Graves with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Schulz throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle. #CL2#
Schulz moves into the clinch.
Schulz prevents a body shot from Graves.
Schulz lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Schulz swings away with an uppercut that misses. #BC2#
Schulz escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Schulz is just out of range.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Schulz was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body. #T3#
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Schulz moves away.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Graves swings for the body but Schulz moves out of range.
Graves throws a sloppy body shot
and Schulz cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Schulz was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves lands a glancing blow to the side of Schulz's head.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Schulz throws a series of punches but Graves avoids them all with ease.
Schulz lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Graves at a distance.
Schulz looks to land a combination. Graves sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Schulz punishes Graves's body with a nice straight punch.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves takes a swing at Schulz's ribcage but misses.
A cross from Schulz lands.
Schulz misses with an uppercut. Graves saw that one coming.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Schulz moves away.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Schulz.
Graves misses the shot to the body.
Graves fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Schulz looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.#T4#
Graves swings for the body but Schulz moves out of range.
Schulz tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Graves was well out of range. Poor timing from Schulz.
Schulz swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Schulz lands with a shot to the body.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Schulz jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Schulz keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Schulz uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Schulz uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Graves takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Graves misses with a body shot.
Schulz catches Graves with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Graves throws out a loose jab but Schulz uses good head movement to avoid it.
Schulz is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Graves with a body shot.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Schulz throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Graves takes a swing at Schulz's ribcage but misses.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
Schulz paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
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 Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Armin Schulz's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!
#R2#
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Schulz is just out of range.
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Schulz moves away.
It seemed like Schulz was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Schulz lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Schulz looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Graves tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Schulz was well out of range. Poor timing from Graves.
Schulz thuds a left hand into Graves's body.
Schulz throws out a loose jab but Graves uses good head movement to avoid it.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Schulz does a little dance to reset his feet.
Schulz scores with a nice head shot.
Graves takes one on the chin but keeps coming. #ROC2#
Graves is rocked!
Armin Schulz seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Graves throws a body punch but Schulz moves out of range.
Oh Graves is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Graves seems to be squinting his left eye. Perhaps he got a poke in that previous exchange. Schulz shows no mercy and swarms him with a barage of strikes! Graves is backing up but Schulz catches him with a final right hook that drops him! Graves covers up and the referee steps in to end the fight! Schulz Jumps to his feet and flashes his guns to the crowd. Oh yeah, baby! How'd you like them apples?!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:41 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Armin Schulz!
An out of breath Armin Schulz thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: RFL 44.5 Silva Jr vs Granger 2     
Date:   Sep 26, 2018
#R1#
White fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Graves manages to avoid it.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
White looks for a takedown but Graves sprawls well.#TD#
White shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than White was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
Graves is looking to regain half guard here but White keeps moving and retains side control.
Graves is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on White's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
White trying to mount his opponent but Graves defends it.
White is keen to just control but Graves is a slippery customer.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
White is looking for a kimura but Graves is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for White to get the leverage.
Graves looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
White is just content to waste time from the top position. Graves takes advantage of the situation and regains full guard. #SUB2#
Graves looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Graves looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T1#
White advances to half guard.
White looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
White uses his free foot to push down on Graves's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Graves.
White controlling from the full mount.
Graves is squirming around, avoiding White's attempts to control the action.
White takes Graves's back. Could be looking for a rear naked choke here - either way, Graves is in trouble.
Graves is defending well here and trying to improve his position. #T2##SUB#
White looking for the choke from the back.
Graves turns into White and is now in his guard. #SUB#
Graves avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Graves wants to stand but White has a closed guard, so he can't escape.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. White swivels though and keeps the full guard. #SUB#
White escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Graves gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance. #SUB#
Graves got a little sloppy there for a moment and White has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Graves has managed to get both his arms back between White's legs - danger averted.
White wants to get back to his feet but Graves is in a dominant position and won't allow it. #T3#
White keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
Graves is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Graves stands and throws White's legs to the side, diving into side control.
White prevents Graves from moving into mount.
White tries to slip a leg under to move to half guard but Graves presses down on the leg and jumps into full mount!
White is controlling an arm, preventing Graves from taking his back. Although keeping him in mount is no better to be honest.
White can't escape the position.
Graves scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish White?
Graves lands a shot to the body, followed up by a shot to the exposed head of his trapped opponent. #T4#
White is trying to escape the mount. #SUB2#
Graves is working on an americana here. Ooh, that looks pretty nasty! Nope, White has managed to escape the submission attempt.
Graves moves to back control.
Graves is hanging on to White's back as he tries to escape.
A lull in the action here.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
White tries to break free.
A lull in the action here.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
That's time! Back to the action!
#R2#
White throws a head kick but Graves moves out of range.
White jabbing away but nothing is landing.
A big right from Graves misses.
White looks for the body kick but Graves saw that one coming.
Graves appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
White keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves slips under a jab.
White looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
White looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
White fails to land with a series of punches.
Graves swings and misses with a shot to the body#TD#
and White counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
White will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Graves is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#SUB2#
Graves looking for a guillotine here but White defends easily.
Shannon White overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Graves is on top in guard. #REVB#
White keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully. #T1##SUB2#
White wants to reverse the position here. Graves has hold of a leg though and he's dropped back looking for a kneebar! The fighters roll across the mat but White is forced to tap! White looks devastated but at least his leg points in the right direction.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:22 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kneebar). Ernest Graves!
Ernest Graves thanked the fans post fight for their support.

 

Event: IXF 37     
Date:   Jun 17, 2018
#R1#
Graves throws out a loose jab but Rohozeanu uses good head movement to avoid it.
A jab from Graves misses.
We've been hearing reports that Graves has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Graves fails with a takedown attempt.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Graves lands a jab to the nose.
Graves misses with a straight left.
Rohozeanu swings for the body but Graves moves out of range.
Graves scores with a jab. Rohozeanu acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Some wild striking there from Rohozeanu.
Graves throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Graves scores with a jab to the head.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Rohozeanu on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Graves waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Rohozeanu.
Rohozeanu throws a big counter head kick but Graves avoids it with no problem.
Graves looks to throw the jab but Rohozeanu is out of range.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Rohozeanu swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Graves counters with a lovely straight right hand!#TD2#
Rohozeanu closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Rohozeanu lands in his opponent's guard.
Graves looking to hit a scissor sweep but Rohozeanu is one step ahead there. #T1#
Graves looking to control but Rohozeanu passes into half guard.
Rohozeanu prevents Graves from improving his position.
Graves regains full guard. Nicely done. #SUB#
Graves is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Rohozeanu stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.
Rohozeanu postures up and lands a big shot to Graves's brow.
Graves looking to hit a scissor sweep but Rohozeanu is one step ahead there. #T2#
Rohozeanu landing with the ground and pound. #SUB#
Graves working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Rohozeanu doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Rohozeanu manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Rohozeanu must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Rohozeanu lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Rohozeanu lands a couple of elbows.
Graves manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Rohozeanu manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR##SUB#
Graves is holding a leg here, probably looking for an ankle lock - he drops back and goes for it! Rohozeanu is in trouble! Is it all over??? No! Rohozeanu has escaped and now he's on top! #REVB#
Rohozeanu is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound. #T3#
Rohozeanu stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.
Rohozeanu is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Graves not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Rohozeanu trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB#
Graves is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Rohozeanu is aware though and is defending well.
We've been informed that Rohozeanu has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.
Graves looking for a sweep. Not yet Graves, not yet.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Rohozeanu distracts Graves with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Graves manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Rohozeanu manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
Graves wants to pass the guard but Rohozeanu is keeping the position.#T4#
Rohozeanu lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Rohozeanu postures up.
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Rohozeanu content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Rohozeanu keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Graves's head.#SUB#
Graves has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Rohozeanu can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #SUB2#
Rohozeanu drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Rohozeanu jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Rohozeanu stopping the sweep attempt from Graves.
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 Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!
#R2##TD#
Graves drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Rohozeanu keeping full guard, as Graves tries to pass.
Graves preventing the sweep.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Rohozeanu pulls Graves in to control the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves content to stall in guard here.
Graves trying to control but Rohozeanu is working from the bottom.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.#T1##REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Rohozeanu tries to bum rush Graves with a series of wild strikes but Graves uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Rohozeanu gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Rohozeanu throws a body kick that misses.
Rohozeanu takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Rohozeanu steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Graves.
Rohozeanu appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Graves is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Graves throws a jab but it's blocked by Rohozeanu.
Rohozeanu throws a big shot that misses.
Graves moves into range and connects with a jab.
Rohozeanu throws a sloppy head kick
and Graves counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Rohozeanu throws a sloppy head kick and Graves moves out of range easily.
Rohozeanu waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
Ernest Graves is winning the standup battle so far.
Rohozeanu keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Graves.
Rohozeanu drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Graves defends it well.
Rohozeanu on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves avoids the head kick by Rohozeanu. #T2#
Rohozeanu uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Graves.
Rohozeanu blocks a jab.
Rohozeanu swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Rohozeanu swats away the attempt to clinch by Graves.
Rohozeanu throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Rohozeanu throws a right hand that Graves ducks under and follows up with a left that Graves also avoids with ease.
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Rohozeanu can do to turn this around?
Rohozeanu throws a head kick that Graves semi-blocks.
Graves jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Rohozeanu takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Costel Rohozeanu is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Graves fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Rohozeanu manages to avoid it.
Rohozeanu tries to score with a low kick but Graves moves his leg out of the way.
A jab lands there for Rohozeanu.
Graves swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Rohozeanu moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.#T3#
Graves uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Rohozeanu.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Rohozeanu is just out of range.
Graves blocks a head kick by Rohozeanu.
Rohozeanu steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Graves.
Graves misses with a right hand
and Rohozeanu counters with a left and a right that stings Graves.
A swing and a miss from Graves.
Graves misses with a looping left.
Rohozeanu looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Rohozeanu ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
Rohozeanu misses with an uppercut. Graves saw that one coming.
Graves fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.#TD2#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Graves enables Rohozeanu to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Graves manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Rohozeanu lands a couple of elbows.
Rohozeanu working some strikes from top position.
Graves looking to hit a scissor sweep but Rohozeanu is one step ahead there. #T4#
Rohozeanu trying to control but Graves is working from the bottom.
Graves lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR#
Costel Rohozeanu has got the better of the ground game so far.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Rohozeanu holds on and takes a little breather.
Graves sitting in guard here, content to control.
Graves stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Rohozeanu swivels though and keeps the full 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 Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! And we move into the final round!
#R3#
Rohozeanu takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Rohozeanu thows a left - swing and a miss!
Graves swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Rohozeanu throws a right and a left that both miss.
Graves was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Rohozeanu rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Graves counters with a nice uppercut.
Graves lands with a nice body punch.
Graves tries to clinch but Rohozeanu is having none of it.
Graves works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Graves swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Rohozeanu uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Graves.
Rohozeanu staying out of range there.
Rohozeanu misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves thuds a left hand into Rohozeanu's body.
Graves misses with an uppercut. Rohozeanu saw that one coming.
Graves misses with a body shot
and Graves takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Sloppy strikes from Rohozeanu. Those never looked like landing.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Rohozeanu does a little dance to reset his feet.
Rohozeanu looks like he wants to counter punch here.#T1#
Rohozeanu with a jab.
Rohozeanu uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Graves.
Graves looks to score with a jab to the body but Rohozeanu is just out of range.
Graves uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Rohozeanu.
Graves jabs Rohozeanu to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Graves misses with a right hand
and Rohozeanu counters with a head kick. That will keep Graves thinking before he tries any more sloppy attacks!
Rohozeanu misses with a jab, cross combination.
Rohozeanu uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Rohozeanu thuds a left hand into Graves's body.
Graves just misses with a punch to the body.
And Rohozeanu tries to counter it with a takedown but Graves pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Rohozeanu uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Graves.
Graves swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
A head kick misses from Rohozeanu.
Graves misses with a body shot
letting Rohozeanu counter with a right hand.
Rohozeanu tries a head kick but it misses.
Rohozeanu slips under a jab from Graves.#T2#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Rohozeanu.
Graves throws a jab but it's blocked by Rohozeanu.
Rohozeanu takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Rohozeanu throws a series of punches but Graves moves out of range.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
Graves misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Rohozeanu.
Graves takes a swing at Rohozeanu's ribcage but misses.
Graves checks a low kick from Rohozeanu.
The fighters circling - Graves throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Sloppy strikes from Rohozeanu. Those never looked like landing.
Graves was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
The crowd cheers as Graves lands an impressive looking overhand right. Rohozeanu doesn't seem phased though.
Graves looks to land a right hand but Rohozeanu moved out of range.
Graves throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Graves swings widly with a right hand #TD2#
and Rohozeanu counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Graves!
Graves tries to get back to half guard but can't.#T3#
Graves regains half guard.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Rohozeanu takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Rohozeanu lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Graves wants to get back to full guard but Rohozeanu has mounted him!
Graves is looking to get to half guard.
Rohozeanu cracks Graves with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Graves really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Rohozeanu working away from the top, dropping strikes.#T4#
Graves taking shots to the head.
BOOM! Rohozeanu connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Rohozeanu postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Graves looks a forlorn figure.
Rohozeanu controlling the pace for now.
Costel Rohozeanu has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Graves takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Graves is bucking up trying to escape but Rohozeanu cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
Graves is trying desperately to improve position.
Rohozeanu scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Graves? #ROC2#
Graves is rocked!

And that's the end of the fight!
Costel Rohozeanu comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Graves 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 Dirk Anderson scores the fight 29:28
Judge Michael Johnstone scores the fight 29:28
Judge Winston Alpacca scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

Ernest Graves seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.
Costel Rohozeanu spoke after the fight, saying 'Congratulations to my opponent. He was the better fighter tonight.'.

 

Event: IXF 33     
Date:   Jun 03, 2018
#R1#
Jonhson moves in looking to clinch but Graves pushes him off.
Jonhson changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Graves tries to avoid it but Jonhson manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Graves to the ground. Graves escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Jonhson.
Jonhson tries to clinch but Graves is having none of it.
Graves throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Jonhson sees it coming and avoids it easily.
As Graves backs off Jonhson throws a huge counter combo but Graves manages to avoid it all.
Graves dips to his left and cracks Jonhson with an uppercut!
Jonhson defending well as Graves loads up on a big left hand.
Graves scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Jonhson doesn't seem bothered though.
Graves throws a lazy right hand but Jonhson sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
A head kick misses from Jonhson.
Graves lands a really nice looking cross but Jonhson seems unphased.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves lands with a hook. Jonhson tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
We've been hearing reports that Graves has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Graves stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Jonhson fails with a takedown attempt.
Ernest Graves has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Mohammed Jonhson.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves misses with a left hand
and Jonhson counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Graves connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.#T1#
Graves misses with a straight left.
Jonhson misses with a takedown attempt
letting Graves counter with a right hand.
Graves misses with a right hand
and Jonhson counters with a right hand to the body.
Graves looks to land a right hand but Jonhson moved out of range.
Graves circles away from the clinch attempt.
Graves connects with a body shot.
Graves smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Graves scores with a nice strike.
Jonhson shoots in for a takedown but Graves shows good takedown defense.
Graves connects with a crisp jab. #TD#
Graves drives through with a takedown into guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Graves with a flurry of punches that miss.
Jonhson keeping moving, preventing Graves from controlling successfully.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T2#
Graves wants to pass the guard but Jonhson is keeping the position.
Graves postures up and lands a big shot to Jonhson's brow.
Graves trying to control but Jonhson is working from the bottom.
Jonhson being controlled here, momentarily.
Graves trying to control but Jonhson is working from the bottom.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Graves is posturing up here but Jonhson has hold of an arm and he's gone for an armbar! Graves tries to roll out but it's too tight and Graves has to tap! Slick submission there by Jonhson!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Mohammed Jonhson!

 

Event: IXF 26     
Date:   May 12, 2018
#R1#
Graves misses the body punch
enabling Gibbet to counter with a crisp jab.
Gibbet keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Gibbet misses with a hook. Graves ducked under it nicely.
Graves's corner calls for a 1-2. Graves obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Gibbet slips a straight right by Graves.
Gibbet scores with a nice head shot.
Graves misses with a straight right.
Gibbet looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Gibbet throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Graves moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Graves takes a swing at Gibbet's ribcage but misses.
Gibbet scores with a nice right hand.
Gibbet scores with a hook to the body. Graves takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Gibbet moves away.
Gibbet thinks about the counter body kick.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
Graves wants to clinch.#T1#
A combination from Gibbet does no damage.
It looked like Graves wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Graves throws a right hand that misses #KD2#
and Gibbet counters with a crisp one two that drops Graves! Gibbet thinks about following him to the mat for a moment but instead steps back and waves Graves to his feet! Graves is in big trouble!#ROC2#
Graves is rocked!
Gibbet knocks out Graves with a massive right hand! The ref tackles Gibbet before he can follow up with any more strikes and that's it everyone. Gibbet picks up the big W with a huge KO!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:16 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Flibberti Gibbet!
After winning the bout, Flibberti Gibbet thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: IXF 22     
Date:   Apr 28, 2018
#R1#
Seimens lunges at Graves with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Graves's hand.
Seimens waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Graves.
Graves scores with a jab.
Graves misses the body punch
and Seimens counters with a straight right hand.#CUT#
It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Graves throws a body shot but no joy.
Seimens definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Graves with a nice cross.
Graves dives in and grabs Seimens's left leg, looking for a takedown. Seimens pushes down on Graves's head and hops out.
Graves throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves misses with an uppercut. Seimens saw that one coming.
Seimens drops Graves with a naaaaasty hook - Graves is in real trouble here! Seimens dives in to side control and pounds out his opponent for a TKO victory! The crowd goes nuts!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:30 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ben Seimens!
In his post fight interview, Ben Seimens started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

 

Event: Quick Fight Championship     
Date:   Apr 19, 2018
#R1#
Good exchange - Graves coming out on top.
Farooqi pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Farooqi fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss. #TD2#
Farooqi shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Graves is in a tricky position but he's been working on his transitions down at King Of Pain, so we'll see if he gets out of it.
Graves wants to improve his position but Farooqi is controlling well.
Graves is trying to maintain the position but Farooqi is very close to passing his half guard.
Graves tries to get to full guard but Farooqi has control of the leg.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Graves has a hand on Farooqi's thigh, trying to get back to full guard. Farooqi takes advantage of the position though and mounts him!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T1#
Farooqi unloading with bombs!
Farooqi controlling the pace for now.
Graves tries to reverse the position but Farooqi maintains control.
Farooqi controlling from mount.
Graves really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Farooqi really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Graves. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Graves bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!#SUB2#
Farooqi looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar. #T2##SUB2#
Farooqi working for a triangle but Graves defends it easily.
Graves pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Farooqi is keeping the position for now.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Graves is pushing down on Farooqi's leg trying to pass to half guard. Farooqi is fighting to maintain full guard but Graves has managed to sneak the leg through.
Graves trying to mount his opponent but Farooqi defends it.
Farooqi controlling the position well.
Graves throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage. #T3#
Farooqi keeps control of the position for the meantime.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Farooqi can do anything to dispel that myth.
Graves wants to lay and pray for a moment but Farooqi keeps working.
Farooqi has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Graves is working away from the top position though.
Farooqi is doing well to control the position and prevent Graves from advancing to side control.
Farooqi is pressing down on Graves's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Graves slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Graves advances to mount.
Farooqi is in all sorts of trouble here. #T4#
Graves trying to control but Farooqi is having none of it.
Farooqi is trying to escape the mount.
Graves trying to control but Farooqi is having none of it.
Graves wants to take Farooqi's back here but Farooqi is holding on to an arm, himself looking to escape.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Farooqi is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
Farooqi throwing hammer fists to the chest of Graves. What's that going to do exactly?
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 Ernest Graves will probably get the nod.
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#
Graves rushes in with a sloppy looking punch #TD2#
and Farooqi counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Farooqi wants to pass to mount but Graves is defending the position. #SUB2#
Farooqi is working for a kimura but Graves is defending it quite comfortably.
Graves works his way to full guard. Good work.
Graves looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Farooqi stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Graves swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Graves tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Farooqi controls the pace of the fight for a moment.#T1#
Graves wants to sweep here but Farooqi controlling him for the moment. #SUB#
Graves working for a triangle but Farooqi defends it easily.
Farooqi controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Abdul Farooqi has got the better of the ground game so far.
Graves 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.#REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.#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.
Graves swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Graves lands a really nice looking cross but Farooqi seems unphased.
Graves throws a hook but Farooqi blocks it.
Graves clobbers Farooqi with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Abdul Farooqi is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Farooqi throws a right hand that Graves ducks under and follows up with a left that Graves also avoids with ease.
A little feinted left hand from Graves on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Farooqi pulls out of a head kick attempt.
It looked like Graves wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Graves lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Graves changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Graves scores with a decent looking hook.
Farooqi shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Graves throws a jab but it's blocked by Farooqi.
Horrible takedown attempt by Farooqi or perhaps it was just good defense by Graves, which made it look bad.
Farooqi ducks under a wild hook from Graves.#T3#
Graves throws an off balance right hand #TD2#
so Farooqi counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Graves bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Farooqi's guard. #REVR#
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Farooqi is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Farooqi controlling the position.
Graves stands and throws Farooqi's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Graves looking to control but instead Farooqi has slipped a leg in, to regain half guard.
Graves is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
Graves trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Farooqi avoids a series of strikes thrown by Graves. #T4#
Farooqi can't escape the position.
Graves trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Farooqi wants to control but Graves is having none of it.
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!
Graves punching from mount but Farooqi doing a good job of avoiding damage.
Farooqi is trying desperately to improve position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Farooqi is squirming around, avoiding Graves's attempts to control the action.
Graves is still in mount, landing shots to his trapped opponent. Farooqi can't stay in a position like this for much longer.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Graves fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Farooqi moves out of range of the strikes.
Donk. Graves catches Farooqi right on the button with a cross.
Graves rushes in with a sloppy looking punch #TD2#
and Farooqi counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Farooqi connects with a nice short shot to Graves's temple.
Well, if Farooqi 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.
Farooqi prevents Graves from improving his position.
Graves is looking to control Farooqi's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Graves avoid being mounted?
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Farooqi wants to pass to mount but Graves is defending the position.
Farooqi controlling the action here.#T1#
Graves is looking for a sweep. Farooqi is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Graves gets full guard.
Farooqi is pushing down on Graves's leg trying to pass to half guard. Graves is fighting to maintain full guard but Farooqi has managed to sneak the leg through.
Graves is in trouble now - Farooqi has advanced to mount!
Graves is trying desperately to improve position.
The referee warns Graves that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head.
Farooqi controlling the position easily from mount. #T2#
Graves tries to get back to half guard but can't. #SUB2#
Farooqi has hold of Graves's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and Graves manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger.
Graves keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard. #T3#
Graves is working hard here to advance position.
Farooqi controlling from mount.
Farooqi lands a heavy elbow.
Graves tries to reverse the position but Farooqi maintains control.
Farooqi controlling the position easily from mount.
Farooqi with good strikes from the mount here!
Graves is looking to improve his position but Farooqi isn't that keen on the idea.#T4##SUB2#
Farooqi working for a guillotine from mount but Graves is in no mood to give up.
Farooqi controlling from mount.
Graves can't escape the position.
Farooqi lands a heavy elbow.
Farooqi looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
Farooqi controlling the position easily from mount.
Graves is trying to escape the mount.
Abdul Farooqi has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Ernest Graves is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Graves taking shots to the head.

And that's the end of the fight!
Abdul Farooqi comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Graves 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 Dirk Anderson scores the fight 28:29
Judge Michael Johnstone scores the fight 29:28
Judge Daniel Franklin scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by split decision... Ernest Graves!

After winning the bout, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: Quick Fight Championship     
Date:   Apr 11, 2018
#R1#
Murhy tries to close the distance and clinch but Graves swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Graves is looking to counter punch.
Murhy displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Graves throws out the jab.
Graves lands with a cross.
Graves leaves Murhy with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Murhy walks into a stiff left hand from Graves.
Murhy misses with a takedown
and Graves counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Murhy shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Murhy takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Ernest Graves has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Arran Murhy.
Graves missing with a left hand there. Murhy was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Murhy throws a sloppy head kick and Graves moves out of range easily.
A big left from Graves misses.
Murhy tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Graves paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Graves connects with a good right hand that stumbles Murhy. Murhy circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Jab by Graves.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Murhy throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Graves throwing a counter right hand but Murhy manages to avoid it.#T1#
Murhy drops his hands momentarily and Graves takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Graves connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.#CL#
Graves clinches up with Murhy and pushes him back against the cage.
Graves lands a body shot in the clinch.
A short right from Graves.
Graves lands with a light punch inside.
Graves softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Graves.
Murhy looking to slow down the pace here.
Graves stalling against the cage.
Murhy tries to pull guard but Graves won't allow it.
Graves scores with a shoulder strike.
A nice left hand lands by Graves.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
A hook to the body from Graves.
Graves gets underhooks to prevent Murhy's takedown attempt. #T2#
Graves lands a right hand that snaps the head of Murhy backwards.
Graves lands a nice uppercut.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Graves.
Graves lands with a left to the head.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Graves creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Murhy's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Graves lands a body punch in the clinch.
Graves throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Murhys head.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Graves creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Murhy wants a takedown but no success here. #BC#
Graves manages to break the clinch.
Murhy ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
Murhy takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Graves listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Murhy takes one to the side of the head. #TD#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Graves.
Murhy looks winded!#T3#
Graves tries to get to his feet but he's trapped momentarily.
Graves lands an elbow.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Graves tries to get to his feet but he's trapped momentarily.
Murhy tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Murhy prevents Graves from improving position. #SUB#
Graves is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Murhy is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now. #SU#
Graves decides to stand back up. Graves steps back and let's Murhy get back to his feet.#T4#
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.
Graves throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Murhy on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Graves throws a jab but it's blocked by Murhy.
Murhy wants to counter with a clinch but Graves pushes him away.
Murhy moves away from the strike by Graves. #TD#
Graves scores with a takedown into Murhy's guard.
We've been hearing that Graves has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Graves trying to control but Murhy is working from the bottom.
Murhy is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Graves trying to control the position from guard on top but Murhy is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Graves working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that round.
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##TD#
Graves looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Graves trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Graves knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Murhy on the ground.
Graves wants to control from the top but Murhy keeps moving.
Graves slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Graves tries to stand but Murhy controls the position and pulls Graves into his guard.
Graves tries to free his leg and advance position but Murhy is retaining full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Murhy is pulling down on Graves's head to control his posture.
Graves stops Murhy from standing up.
Murhy looking to control but Graves passes into half guard.
Graves trying to mount his opponent but Murhy defends it. #T1#
Graves trying to control the action but Murhy is working from the bottom.
Graves passes to full mount!
Graves tries to stand up but he's trapped just for the moment.
Murhy slips a leg in and gets back to half guard.
Murhy is not content to let Graves control the position.#T2#
Graves is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Murhy is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.
Murhy won't allow Graves to pass to mount.
Ernest Graves overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#SUB#
Graves is looking for a kimura here.
Graves tries to stand but his hand is stuck under Murhy.
Graves works his way into full mount!
Graves is trying to stand up but he's being controlled by his opponent. #T3#
Murhy is desperately trying to improve his position but Graves has a good base and remains in mount.
Graves fails to advance to Murhy's back.
The crowd growing excited in anticipation of a finish here! Right on cue, Graves cracks his opponent with a massive right hand that draws loud cheers!
Graves misses with a head shot.
Murhy is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Graves can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Murhy is looking to escape. #T4##SUB#
Graves moves into side control, trying to work for a kimura. That looks painful! Will he finish!!?? No, Murhy has worked his arm free - good work by Murhy!
Graves is looking to take a break and control but Murhy is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Graves is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Murhy can do to turn this around?
Murhy tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Graves tries to get to his feet but he's trapped momentarily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ernest Graves dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!
#R3#
Jab from Graves.
Graves cracks Murhy with a right hand to the side of the head.
Graves is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Graves displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Murhy. #CL#
Graves rushes Murhy and presses him up against the cage.
A short left from Graves. #BC#
Graves breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Graves connects with a right hand. Murhy shakes it off.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Murhy takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Ernest Graves is winning the standup battle so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Murhy takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Murhy gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Graves counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Murhy ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
Murhy moves away from the strike by Graves. #T1#
Murhy steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Graves.
A swing and a miss from Graves.
Graves throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
And Murhy responds with a good body kick, but Graves manages to step out the way in time.#CL#
Graves has Murhy up against the cage in a clinch.
Nice body punch from Graves.
Murhy tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Ernest Graves has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Arran Murhy.
Graves lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage. #BC2#
Murhy's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Murhy tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Graves defends well and Murhy ends up having to push Graves into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Murhy wants to clinch but Graves slips to the side
and Graves counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Murhy drops his hands momentarily and Graves takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Graves's jab looks to have found its range, popping Murhy under the eye.
Murhy looks for a takedown but Graves sprawls well.
Murhy takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.#T2#
Murhy with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Graves to score with a decent uppercut.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Murhy wants to clinch
letting Graves counter with a right hand.
Graves lands a lovely overhand right.#CL#
Graves has closed the distance and engaged Murhy in a clinch.
Graves working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Murhy has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Graves scores with a nice hook to the head.
Graves lands a hook to the side of the head.
Graves throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Murhys head.
Murhy tries to pull guard but Graves won't allow it.
Murhy tries to pull guard but Graves forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Graves lands a left hand. #BC2#
Murhy breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Murhy works over Graves's head and body with a nice combination.#T3#
Graves misses with a right hand
and Murhy makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Murhy moves away from the strike by Graves.
Murhy doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.#CL#
Murhy gets tackled into the cage by Graves. Graves maintains the clinch.
Graves scores with a shot to the side of Murhy's head.
Murhy letting Graves take a breather here.#BC#
Graves breaks the clinch.
Arran Murhy is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Murhy shoots and misses
and Murhy takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Graves scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Graves bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Murhy gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Graves with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Graves lands a jab to the head.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Graves scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.#ROC#
Murhy is rocked!#T4#
Graves scores with a nice right hand.
Murhy is still on wobbly legs! Can Graves finish him?#TD#
Graves closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Murhy is not in a great position here, taking some shots. #SUB#
Graves tries for a kimura but Murhy is defending well.
Graves tries to get to his feet but he's trapped momentarily.
Murhy is trying to control Graves's posture but Graves avoids it.
Graves tries to move into full mount but can't pass Murhy's legs.
Graves lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Murhy down.
Graves controlling from side mount.
Graves working the ground and pound from side control.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Graves wants to stand but Murhy is controlling his arm.
Murhy seems to have recovered his senses.
Graves trying to control the position but Murhy is working away.
Arran Murhy has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Ernest Graves is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Murhy gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there!

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge David Hoff scores the fight 30:26
Judge Peter Branson scores the fight 30:26
Judge Bart Greer scores the fight 30:26

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernest Graves!

An out of breath Ernest Graves thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: Quick Fight Championship     
Date:   Apr 05, 2018
#R1#
Graves with a nice cross.#KD#
Van Der Hoorn drops Graves with a beautiful combination! Graves stares up at his opponent, who ushers him back to his feet - Van Der Hoorn is looking for the KO!#ROC#
Graves is rocked!#CUT#
It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.#CL2#
Graves pushes Van Der Hoorn up against the cage in a clinch.
Graves is still on wobbly legs! Can Van Der Hoorn finish him?
Van Der Hoorn tries for a takedown but Graves manages to get underhooks.
Graves throws a head punch that misses.
Van Der Hoorn misses with a body punch.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
A short right from Graves.
Van Der Hoorn tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Graves blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Graves manages to get underhooks and slows down the pace for a moment.
Graves swings away with an uppercut that misses. #BC#
Van Der Hoorn breaks the clinch.
Van Der Hoorn tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Graves paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Van Der Hoorn shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Graves sprawls well. Graves wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Van Der Hoorn gets slowly back to his feet.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Graves! But no joy.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Peter Van Der Hoorn. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Van Der Hoorn throws a right and a left that both miss.
Graves throws a hook but Van Der Hoorn blocks it.
Van Der Hoorn closes this distance looking for a takedown but Graves circles away.
Graves seems to have recovered his senses.
Graves moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Graves stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Van Der Hoorn tries to close the distance and clinch up but Graves swats him away and circles back towards the center.
A jab from Graves does it's job there.
Van Der Hoorn takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Van Der Hoorn shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Graves as he jumps to the side.
Van Der Hoorn takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.#T1#
Graves fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Graves lands the left hand.
Van Der Hoorn lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Graves connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Van Der Hoorn's hands.
Graves 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.
The crowd cheers as Graves lands an impressive looking overhand right. Van Der Hoorn doesn't seem phased though.#ROC2#
Van Der Hoorn is rocked!
Graves lands hard precision jab right on the jaw that stiffens Van Der Hoorn up and sends him tumbling to the mat! The ref grabs Graves from behind before he can pounce. Some folks in the crowd didn't like that stoppage, but I saw Van Der Hoorn's eyes roll way back in his head, he was done.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:31 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Ernest Graves!
After winning the bout, Ernest Graves thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: Quick Fight Championship     
Date:   Apr 02, 2018
#R1#
Graves's corner calls for a 1-2. Graves obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Graves scores with a jab to the head.
Graves loads up on a big right hand but Law slips the punch.
Law drops his hands momentarily and Graves takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Graves fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Law on the side of the head.#TD2#
Law shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
Law is standing up over Graves. Graves looks to escape but Law dives into side control. #REVR#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves tries to buck Law off but Law is having none of it.#SUB2#
Law is working to tighten his grip on Graves's neck. He's isolated an arm and is working for an arm triangle. Graves has recognised the danger and is trying to turn with the submission but Law is really squeezing tight and eventually Graves passes out! Law breaks the hold and jumps onto the cage to celebrate! Submission of the night, I'd say!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:52 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Arm Triangle). Ben Law!

 

Event: Quick Fight Championship     
Date:   Mar 25, 2018
#R1#
Graves works Aoki's body with a nice hook.
Graves thows a left - swing and a miss!
Decent striking displayed by Aoki there.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Aoki.
Graves ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Aoki takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Graves looks to land a left hand but Aoki moved out of range nicely.
Aoki lands a nice hook to Graves's body. Graves takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Ernest Graves seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Graves tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Aoki blocks a jab.
Aoki cracks Graves with a right hand to the side of the head.
We've been hearing reports that Graves has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Aoki defending well as Graves loads up on a big left hand.
Aoki takes one to the chin there.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves slips under a jab.
Graves was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Aoki rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Graves moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Aoki slips under a jab.
Aoki throws a jab but it's blocked by Graves.
Aoki ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Aoki jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Aoki throws a lazy right hand but Graves sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#T1#
Aoki takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Graves throws a jab when Aoki was well out of range.
Graves keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Graves misses with an uppercut.
Aoki scores with a body shot.
Aoki throws the left hand but Graves avoids the punch easily.
Aoki misses with a straight left.
Aoki throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Graves throws a hook to the side of Aoki's head but Aoki sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Aoki digs a good body shot into Graves's ribs.
Graves misses with a wild body shot.
Aoki digs a good body shot into Graves's ribs.
Graves ducks under a wild hook from Aoki.
Graves tries to clinch up.
Graves takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Graves steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Aoki.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Graves cracks Aoki with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.#T2#
Jab by Graves.
Rei Aoki is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Graves blocks a jab.
Aoki throws a combination. Graves tries to block but a couple of punches get through.#CUT2#
It looks like Ernest Graves has been cut.
Aoki takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Graves throws a lazy uppercut
and Aoki counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Graves tries to move into range but Aoki moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Graves slips under a jab from Aoki.
Graves pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Aoki takes one on the button.
Graves lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Graves is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
A telegraphed right hand from Graves misses the target.
Aoki takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Aoki with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Graves to score with a decent uppercut.
Graves lands a glancing blow to the side of Aoki's head.
Graves is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Aoki lands a lovely overhand right.
Graves throws a lazy uppercut
letting Aoki counter with a right hand. #ROC2#
Graves is rocked!#T3#
Graves defending well as Aoki loads up on a big left hand.
Graves lands with an overhand left.
Aoki staying out of range there.
Aoki misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Graves.
Aoki ducks under a wild hook from Graves.
A slow jab from Graves misses its intended target.
Graves loads up on a big right hand but Aoki slips the punch.
Aoki is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Graves with a body shot.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Graves is defended easily by Aoki.
A looping hook to the body misses from Graves. Aoki does a little dance to reset his feet.
Aoki is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Aoki walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Aoki gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Aoki misses with an uppercut. Graves saw that one coming.
Aoki fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Graves on the side of the head.
Aoki lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
The fighters circle momentarily. Graves darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.#T4#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves scores with the left hand. Aoki knows he should have avoided that one.
Graves looks to throw the jab but Aoki is out of range.
Donk. Aoki catches Graves right on the button with a cross.
Aoki takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Graves throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Aoki sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Aoki throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Graves is really peppering his opponent's head with punches.
Nice shot by Graves.
Graves throws the left hand but Aoki avoids the punch easily.
Graves pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Graves cracks Aoki with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Graves missing with a left hand there. Aoki was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Aoki walks into a straight right hand from Graves.#ROC#
Aoki is rocked!
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Graves keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Aoki is still on wobbly legs! Can Graves finish him?
A big right from Graves misses.
Aoki has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Graves finds it's way round the side to connect with Aoki's head.
Graves scores with the left hand. Aoki knows he should have avoided that one.
Aoki avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Graves closes the distance and lands a vicious right hand that drops Aoki! Graves dives in looking to finish! Aoki is still trying to defend himself but he's taking too many shots and the referee has no choice but to stop the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ernest Graves!

 

Event: Quick Fight Championship     
Date:   Mar 21, 2018
#R1#
A big right from Graves misses. #CL#
Graves tries to keep at a distance but Amirov has taken the fight into the clinch.
Amirov is trying to break the clinch but Graves is controlling him.
Graves scores with a shoulder strike.
Graves lands with a short shot to the head.
Amirov stalling in the clinch but Graves improves position.
Graves misses with the head strike.
Both guys are working to get underhooks.
Amirov is trying to pull guard but Graves has him pressed against the cage.
Graves swings wildly with an uppercut but Amirov uses good head movement to avoid it.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Amirov.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A battle for position here, against the cage.
Graves tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A head punch on the inside from Graves fails to land.
Graves lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Amirov backwards. #T1#
Amirov jumps guard but Graves stands there with Amirov around his waist. Amirov gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Graves scores with a nice hook to the head.#TD#
Amirov has moved round to his opponent's back and is looking for a suplex! Oh snap! He's tossed Graves clear over his head and slammed him to the mat!
Graves tries to roll but Amirov sticks to his back. #SUB#
Graves defends a rear naked choke attempt by controlling one of Amirov's arms.
Amirov doesn't have the hooks in and Graves manages to turn into his guard.
Amirov pulls Graves in close to his closed guard and prevents Graves from doing any damage or advancing position.
Graves forces his way into half guard.
Amirov is staying active underneath Graves, who seems content to just control the action from this position. #T2#
Amirov on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Graves uses his free foot to push down on Amirov's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Amirov.
Amirov is trying to escape the mount.
Graves tries to control but Amirov wriggling away.
Graves prevents Amirov from getting the reversal.
Amirov is working hard here to advance position.
Graves looking to control but Amirov is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Graves raining down hammerfists from mount.#T3##SUB2#
Graves looking for an armbar but decides to keep the dominant position instead. #SUB2#
Graves is working close to his opponent, looking to work a submission by the looks of things. Oh, he's managed to get a guillotine from mount as his opponent reached up! That looks tiiiiight! Will he tap? YES, he's tapped! Impressive submission by Graves!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:23 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Ernest Graves!

 

Event: Quick Fight Championship     
Date:   Mar 14, 2018
#R1#
Smith throws a body shot but no joy.
Smith takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Graves.
Graves digs a good body shot into Smith's ribs.
Graves lands with an uppercut that bounces Smith off the cage and back into range.
Graves lands a lovely overhand right.
Graves connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
A punch lands to the side of Smith 's head but he takes it in his stride.#TD#
Smith shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Graves is trying to defend but Smith finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Graves scrambles, trying to get to his feet, but Smith manages to mount him!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Graves is wriggling around trying to escape. #SUB#
Smith has hold of an arm here, looking to extend it. He's committed to the armbar attempt here! Will he get it?! Yes! Graves is forced to tap!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Scott Smith!

 

 
 
 
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