Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: C284: Marley vs Anderson
Date: Mar 03, 2024

#R1##TD#
Cruz feints and as Broderick raises his hands in defense, Cruz changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Broderick is pulling down on Cruz's head. It's preventing any offense from Cruz, at least for the moment.
Cruz postures up and lands a big shot to Broderick 's brow.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Broderick wants to stand and escape but Cruz is having none of it.
We've been hearing that Cruz has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Broderick has control of Cruz's left arm, preventing Cruz from doing any damage.
Cruz trying to control but Broderick is working from the bottom.
Broderick wants to sweep here but Cruz controlling him for the moment.
Cruz throwing strikes but missing.
Broderick keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Broderick tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Cruz wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Broderick is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.#T1##SUB#
Cruz looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything. #SUB#
Cruz is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Broderick is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Cruz tries to move to mount but Broderick blocks the move with his legs.
Cruz working away.
Broderick tries to get back to half guard but can't.
The referee tells the fighters to keep busy.
Broderick can't do much from the bottom here. #SUB#
Cruz tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though. #SUB#
Cruz tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Cruz has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #T2#
Cruz staying calm.
Cruz lands an elbow.
Broderick tries to buck Cruz off but Cruz is having none of it.
Broderick prevents Cruz from moving into mount.
Cruz trying to control the position but Broderick is working away.
Cruz scoring with punches and elbows.
Broderick manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
The fighters are battling for position here. Broderick manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Cruz tries to free his leg and advance position but Broderick is retaining full guard.
Broderick pulls Cruz in close to his closed guard and prevents Cruz from doing any damage or advancing position.#T3#
Cruz slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Cruz is trying to get an arm triangle but Broderick is defending well.
Broderick tries to improve position but can't.
Cruz working the ground and pound.
Cruz working away.#SUB#
Cruz is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Broderick has escaped the position, nice work there.
Cruz misses with the ground and pound.
Cruz tries to advance to mount but Broderick denies him.
Broderick is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Cruz's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Broderick is looking for a sweep. Cruz is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#T4#
Cruz 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.
Cruz wants to take a breather but Broderick is having none of it.
Broderick is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Cruz's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Cruz's back!
Cruz trying to control but he's just got himself in more trouble.
Cruz wants to escape the position.
Cruz is working hard here to advance position.
Cruz breaks Broderick 's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Broderick is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Cruz distracts Broderick with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Cruz looking to pass the guard.
Broderick is trying to control the position from the bottom.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz 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#
Nice sprawl there from Broderick as Cruz shoots in.
Broderick lands a jab to the head. #CUT2#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Broderick leaves Cruz with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Broderick stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Broderick wants it to stay on the feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
Cruz doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Broderick cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Cruz dives in and grabs Broderick 's left leg, looking for a takedown. Broderick pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.
Ricardo Cruz 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.
Cruz shoots for a double leg takedown but Broderick sprawls well. He's pushed Cruz's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Broderick missing with a left hand there. Cruz was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Jab from Broderick .
Cruz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Broderick counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.#ROC2#Cruz is rocked!#T1#
Broderick closes the distance and lands a brutal uppercut that knocks Cruz out! We're looking at the replay now - he was out before he hit the floor!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:07 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Hunter Broderick !
Hunter Broderick thanked the fans post fight for their support.

Event: OFK 358 - Johnson Vs Highwind
Date: Dec 10, 2023

#R1#
Gomez slaps away a takedown attempt from Cruz, before circling back to the center of the mat.
We've been hearing reports that Cruz has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Cruz dives in for a single leg takedown but Gomez sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
A head punch on the inside from Gomez fails to land.
Gomez'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.
A head punch on the inside from Gomez fails to land.
Cruz blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Gomez lands a nice uppercut.#BC2#
Gomez breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Nice takedown defense from Gomez. No joy for Cruz on that attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. 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.
Cruz slips a jab and a cross from Gomez.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Gomez throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.#CL2#
Cruz tries to keep at a distance but Gomez has taken the fight into the clinch.
Still in the clinch, Gomez scores with a nice short uppercut.
Cruz tries to pull guard but Gomez forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Gomez fails to land with a short punch on the inside. #T1#
Gomez misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Cruz.
Cruz is looking for a takedown.
A right handed body shot lands from Gomez.
Gomez lands a right hand that snaps the head of Cruz backwards.
Gomez tries to throw a body punch but Cruz avoids it by throwing Gomez back against the cage.
Gomez is pressed up against the cage. Cruz has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Gomez down to the mat. Gomez avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance. #TD#
Cruz closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Gomez did well to prevent Cruz getting side control.

Gomez manages to escape and get back to his feet!
Cruz shoots in but Gomez avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Gomez tests Cruz's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
Cruz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Gomez counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Horrible takedown attempt by Cruz or perhaps it was just good defense by Gomez, which made it look bad.
Cruz is breathing heavily.#T2#
A jab lands there for Gomez.#CUT2#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
A looping hook to the body misses from Gomez. Cruz does a little dance to reset his feet.#CL2#
Cruz tries to keep at a distance but Gomez has taken the fight into the clinch.#BC2#
Gomez breaks from the clinch. #TD#
Cruz closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Gomez did well to prevent Cruz getting side control.
Gomez looks like he's trying to stand up.
Cruz seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Gomez does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #ES2#
Gomez kicks Cruz off and gets back to his feet.
Cruz looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.#CL2#
Cruz gets tackled into the cage by Gomez. Gomez maintains the clinch. #T3#
Cruz is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Cruz has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Gomez is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
Cruz goes for a takedown in the clinch but Gomez prevents it.
Gomez lands with a short punch from the clinch. #TD#
Cruz wants the takedown. Gomez is fighting it off but Cruz persists and manages to bring the fight to the ground, ending up in Gomez's guard against the cage.#ES2#
Gomez pushes Cruz off and scrambles back to his feet.
Cruz moves forwards but Gomez connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Cruz fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Gomez avoids it really well and circles away.
Gomez throws a hook but Cruz avoids it easily.
Gomez jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Gomez misses with a straight left.
Cruz keeping at a good range here, avoiding a leg kick.
Cruz fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Gomez avoids it really well and circles away.#T4#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Gomez waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Cruz.
Cruz fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Gomez is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Gomez comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Cruz takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Gomez lands with an uppercut that bounces Cruz off the cage and back into range.
Gomez will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Schwartz Gomez is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#TD#
Cruz closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Gomez's guard.

Gomez has butterfly guard. He's looking to stand up here. He pushes Cruz off him and springs to his feet nicely. The crowd applauds.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Cruz.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Gomez lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Cruz circles away quickly and effectively.
Cruz changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Gomez throws a right and a left that Cruz avoids nicely.
Cruz throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Gomez's waist but Gomez gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Cruz off to one side.
Cruz throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Gomez's waist but Gomez gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Cruz off to one side.
Cruz is trying hard to land a takedown here. Gomez sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Schwartz Gomez dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2##CL2#
Gomez clinches.
Gomez has been looking to improve his clinch game in recent weeks. Cruz seems to have the measure of him in the clinch so far, so let's see if Gomez can turn it around.#BC2#
Gomez pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Gomez connects with a body shot.
Cruz throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Gomez's waist but Gomez gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Cruz off to one side.
A jab from Gomez does it's job there.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt - Gomez sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Cruz tries to score a power double leg takedown but Gomez sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Cruz somewhat.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz shoots for a takedown but Gomez saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Decent striking displayed by Gomez there.
Cruz gets caught by a brutal right hook which buckles his knees! Cruz tries to backpedal with his spaghettilegs but Gomez is headhunting and goes for the kill. A jab and a right hook connect and Cruz buckles badly as his eyes roll back. The referee steps in and saves Cruz!! Cruz is complaining but he was clearly out on his feet. Gomez throws his mouthpiece into the crowd. Mmmm spit-tastic.

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

Event: OFK 350 - Escalante Vs Cruz
Date: Nov 12, 2023

#R1##CL#
Escalante closes the distance and clinches.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Escalante manages to get underhooks.
Our sources have told us that Escalante has been working on his elbows in the gym.
Escalante gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Cruz.
Escalante misses with a punch on the inside.
Escalante swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Cruz is trying to drag Escalante to the mat but Escalante just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Vicente Escalante has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.#TD2#
Cruz works for the underhooks and manages to get a trip takedown into guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Escalante is keeping the position for now.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cruz trying to control but Escalante is working from the bottom. #T1#
Cruz advances position into side control!
Cruz tries to score with some ground and pound. Escalante controls his posture well this time though and the shots don't do any damage.
Cruz looks up at the clock and then as Escalante takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Cruz smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
Sloppy strikes there by Cruz.#SUB2#
Cruz goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Escalante has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Cruz but great work by Escalante.
Cruz is looking to regain half guard here but Escalante keeps moving and retains side control.
You can see the frustration on Cruz's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Cruz is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Escalante's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.#T2#
Cruz wants to get back to full guard.#SU#
Escalante stands up and beckons Cruz to join him on the feet.
Escalante throws a quick inside leg kick.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Cruz has been working on his takedowns a lot in the buildup to the fight and we can only assume he's going to look to take this to the mat.#CL#
Escalante moves into range and clinches up with Cruz.
Escalante is pressed up against the cage. Cruz has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Escalante down to the mat. Escalante avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
A head kick misses from Escalante.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Escalante uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Cruz has time to react.
Escalante with a nice cross.#CUT#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Cruz dives in and grabs Escalante's left leg, looking for a takedown. Escalante pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.
Escalante scores with a hook to the body. Cruz takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Escalante misses with a looping left.
No luck for Cruz with that takedown attempt. #T3#
Escalante throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Cruz looks winded!
Escalante lands a nice leg kick that just misses Cruz's sensitive parts.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown. Escalante tries to sprawl out of it but Cruz keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Escalante manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Escalante as he jumps to the side.
Escalante throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Cruz has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Escalante.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Cruz gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Escalante makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.#CL#
Escalante has taken the fight to the clinch.
Cruz looking for a takedown.
Escalante gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Cruz. #T4#
A nice right hand lands inside from Escalante.
Cruz is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Escalante is defending well.
Escalante lands a hook to the side of the head.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
The fighters are starting to get sweaty, which will make takedowns a bit more tricky.
Cruz goes for a takedown attempt but Escalante pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
Nice uppercut lands for Escalante. That snapped Cruz's head back.
Cruz looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Escalante is fending him off so far but Cruz persists. Nope, Escalante circles away and we're back to standing.
Escalante stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
A jab lands there for Escalante.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Escalante fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Cruz switches off momentarily and Escalante cracks him with a monster right hand! Cruz topples backwards and makes a semi conscious attempt to cover up, as Escalante dives in to land one more shot, before the referee has time to call the fight. What a finish by Escalante!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Vicente Escalante!
Vicente Escalante retains his middleweight title!
Vicente Escalante really struggled to get his t-shirt on before his hand was raised. Making sure that Brooklyn Apothecary logo gets some air time is pretty tricky when you're all sweaty.

Event: OFK 341 - Escalante Vs Bizih
Date: Oct 14, 2023

#R1##CL#
Kurtev instigates a clinch. #TD#
Kurtev turns his back and goes for a hip toss. It's a bit messy but it gets the job done and Kurtev manages to end up in side control.
Kurtev in side control lands a decent elbow.
Cruz is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Kurtev postures up a little and throws a couple of hammerfists but they don't connect properly.
Kurtev wants to control but Cruz is keeping him busy.
Kurtev tries to score with some ground and pound. Cruz controls his posture well this time though and the shots don't do any damage.
Cruz is trying to get back to half guard.
Cruz managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Kurtev.
You can see the frustration on Cruz's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Cruz tries to improve position but can't.
Cruz on the wrong end of some ground and pound.
Kurtev trying to control the action but Cruz is working from the bottom.
Cruz gets back to half guard.#T1#
Cruz avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Kurtev.
Cruz tries to roll over but Kurtev keeps him under control.
Cruz is trying to control but can't.
Cruz slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Kurtev wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving.
Kurtev has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Cruz utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Cruz avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Kurtev trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Cruz not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Cruz escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Kurtev gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance. #SUB2#
Kurtev avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #T2#
Cruz is looking to sweep but instead, Kurtev has passed into half guard.
Cruz wants to get back to full guard.
Cruz is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Cruz taking some punishment here, with Kurtev in his half guard.
Cruz is looking to get back to full guard here but Kurtev has managed to pass to side control instead.
Kurtev landing with strikes to the head and body from side control.
Cruz dodges the ground and pound from Kurtev.
Kurtev throws a strike aimed at the side of Cruz's head but Cruz avoids it well.
Cruz tries to improve position but can't.
Cruz sneaks back into half guard.
Cruz has hold of Kurtev's hands but Kurtev slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Cruz avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Kurtev.
Cruz trying to keep hold of his opponent's head but Kurtev manages to pass to mount! #T3#
Cruz is trying desperately to improve position.
Cruz tries to hold on but Kurtev postures up.
Cruz keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Kurtev lands a big shot there that rocks Cruz but he's holding on and managing to survive for now.
Cruz is desperately trying to improve his position but Kurtev has a good base and remains in mount.
Kurtev raining down hammerfists from mount.
Cruz taking shots to the head. #ROC#Cruz is rocked!
Cruz gets back to half guard.
Kurtev looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Kurtev not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Kurtev missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Nice strikes from Kurtev there. #T4#
Cruz wants to get back to full guard.
Kurtev scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Cruz blocking the ground and pound attempt from Kurtev.
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!
Kurtev wants to control but Cruz is keeping him busy.
Cruz wants to control but Kurtev is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Cruz tries to get to full guard but Kurtev has control of the leg.
Kurtev working over Cruz with some ground and pound. Cruz looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Kurtev landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Kurtev wants to take a breather but Cruz is having none of it.
Kurtev prevents Cruz from improving his position.
Cruz keeps trying to improve his position.#SUB2#
Cruz actively working from the bottom here.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Krisko Kurtev dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2##TD2#
Cruz 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.
Cruz postures up.
Cruz won't allow Kurtev to sweep him here.
Cruz forces his way into half guard.
Kurtev wants to control but Cruz is keeping busy.
Kurtev landing rabbit punches to the side of Cruz's head. Not doing much damage but still scoring a few points. #SUB#
Kurtev looking for submissions off his back.
Kurtev is refusing to be controlled, as Cruz sits in half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kurtev trying to hold on to Cruz's head to control him but Cruz postures up.
Kurtev wants to improve his position but Cruz is controlling well.
Cruz has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount. #T1#
Cruz in mount throwing good strikes here, bouncing his opponent's head off the canvas.
Cruz seems to be looking to move to his opponent's back but Kurtev is holding on tight.
Cruz looking to control but Kurtev is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Cruz blocks Kurtev's feeble attempts to strike from the bottom.
Cruz lands with some strikes.#SUB2#
Cruz quickly switches position and commits to an armbar! It's a big risk for Cruz but it's paid off an Kurtev is forced to tap! Nice work by Cruz.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:45 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: OFK 332 - Jankovic Vs Marek
Date: Sep 10, 2023

#R1#
Nice sprawl there from Gomez as Cruz shoots in.
Cruz fails with the takedown.
Gomez throws out a counter right but Cruz avoids it with no problem.
Cruz shoots in but no luck this time.
Gomez throws out a counter right but Cruz avoids it with no problem.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz avoids a punch combination nicely.
Cruz appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.#TD#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
Cruz drops an elbow to the side of Gomez's head.
Gomez is looking to escape.
Cruz controlling the action here.
Cruz throws a strike but Gomez avoids it easily and moves to full guard.
Cruz trying to control but Gomez is working from the bottom.
Cruz postures up and lands a big shot to Gomez's brow.
Cruz 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.
Cruz trying to control but Gomez is working from the bottom. #T1#
Cruz chips away with some ground and pound.
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses.
Gomez preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage. #ES2#
Gomez scrambles and gets back to his feet.
Cruz walks into a stiff left hand from Gomez.
Gomez misses the shot to the body.
Gomez pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Good exchange - Gomez coming out on top.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown. Gomez tries to sprawl out of it but Cruz keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Gomez manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing. #TD#
Cruz shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Gomez manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.#ES2#
The fighters are working up against the cage. Gomez manages to wriggle his way back to his feet, so the fighters are now clinched against the cage.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Gomez tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage. #T2#
Gomez lands an uppercut.
Cruz is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Gomez is defending well.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Gomez.
Cruz tries for a takedown. No joy.
Gomez lands a hook to the side of the head.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Gomez.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Gomez manages to get underhooks.
Gomez scores with a shoulder strike.
Cruz tries to score a body lock takedown but Gomez shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Gomez lands a body shot in the clinch.
Cruz is breathing heavily.
Gomez can't find room to land a body shot as Cruz controls the action.
Gomez lands an uppercut.#BC2#
Gomez breaks the clinch.
Gomez throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Cruz stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Cruz tries to score a power double leg takedown but Gomez sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Cruz somewhat.#T3#
Gomez leaves Cruz with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Gomez bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Cruz's head.#CUT2#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.#TD#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
Gomez is trying to stand up here but Cruz is controlling him well.
Cruz passes to side control. #SUB#
Cruz tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Gomez is trying to buck Cruz off.#SUB#
Cruz wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Gomez, who protects the arm well.
Cruz tries to advance to mount but Gomez denies him. #T4##SUB#
Cruz goes for an armbar! This could be all over! Wait, no, Gomez rolls with the submission and now he's on top in Cruz's guard! Nice work there by Gomez!
Gomez must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.#SUB#
Cruz has his feet on Gomez's thighs here. He's pushed Gomez 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! Gomez screams in pain and taps out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:35 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: OFK 322 - Hedegaard Vs Claw
Date: Aug 06, 2023

#R1#
Cruz looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
We've been hearing reports that Cruz has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Howard throws a hook but Cruz blocks it.#TD#
Cruz looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
Howard is looking to improve his position.
Howard moves into full guard.
Howard keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass.
Cruz controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Howard keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz is working hard here to advance position.
Cruz content to stall in guard here. #T1#
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Howard is keeping the position for now.
Cruz trying to control but Howard is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Howard throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #SUB2#
Howard working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Cruz doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Cruz manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Howard looking to control.
Howard manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Cruz manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
Howard missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Cruz looking for a sweep. Not yet Cruz, not yet. #SUB#
Cruz has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Howard can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Cruz keeping full guard, as Howard tries to pass. #T2#
Howard wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving. #SUB#
Cruz working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Howard doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Oh but Cruz is tightening it up a little... Howard has to be careful here... He's got his foot tucked under now, this looks tight! Howard reacted too slowly and this one could be over in a matter of seconds! YES! Howard taps out! Nice BJJ there by Cruz!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:32 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Choke). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: OFK 315 -
Date: Jul 15, 2023

#R1#
Bizihwaeile lands a really nice looking cross but Cruz seems unphased. #CUT2#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Cruz shoots in and drives through. Bizihwaeile sprawls well.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Bizihwaeile.
Cruz walks into a left hand.
Bizihwaeile throws a right hand that Cruz ducks under and follows up with a left that Cruz also avoids with ease.
Nice sprawl there from Bizihwaeile as Cruz shoots in.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz walks into a jab.
Bizihwaeile cracks Cruz with a nasty uppercut that draws ooohs from the crowd and sends Cruz tumbling backwards onto the mat. He tries to recover but Bizihwaeile pounces and lands a hail of unanswered strikes that forces the referee to step in to end the fight! Cruz is not happy but he gave the referee no choice!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:33 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Feaqeuin Bizihwaeile!
Feaqeuin Bizihwaeile decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: OFK 308 - Cubbedge Vs Gazersky
Date: Jun 18, 2023

#R1#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Brown shows good takedown defense.
Brown throws a counter combo.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Brown counters with a one-two to the body.
Cruz changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Brown tries to avoid it but Cruz manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Brown to the ground. Brown escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
and Brown counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Cruz shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Brown defends it nicely.
Brown lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.#TD#
Cruz looking to score a takedown here. Brown is defending well but Cruz drives through and ends up in Brown's guard.
Brown is looking to stand up but Cruz isn't so interested in that idea. #T1#
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Brown is keeping the position.
Cruz throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Brown works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Brown is looking to stand up but Cruz isn't so interested in that idea.
Cruz 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.
Brown keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Brown wants to get back to his feet but Cruz is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Brown can't keep his opponent in guard - Cruz advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Cruz passes to side control.
Cruz tries to land with some ground and pound but misses. #SUB#
Cruz thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
We've been hearing that Cruz has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Cruz tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it. #T2#
Cruz trying to control the position but Brown is working away.
Brown is looking to work his way out of this bad position but Cruz is controlling him well.
Cruz cracks Brown with a big right hand but Brown just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Brown is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Sloppy strikes there by Cruz.
Brown is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.
Cruz in side control lands a decent elbow. #SUB#
Cruz working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
Brown tries to escape but Cruz is in control.
Cruz works to advance to full mount. Brown defends for a few seconds but eventually he succumbs.
Brown in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head. #T3#
Brown is really trying hard to get back to his feet.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Cruz has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Brown's face.
Cruz looking to control but Brown is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Cruz punishing his opponent with strikes.
Cruz tries to control but Brown wriggling away.
Cruz takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Cruz looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
Brown trying desperately to get to his feet.
Brown is squirming around, avoiding Cruz's attempts to control the action.
Cruz lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.
Brown prevents Cruz from taking his back.
Cruz controlling the position easily from mount.
Brown squirming around on the bottom, looking to escape. #T4#
Cruz working Brown over with strikes here.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Cruz lands a heavy elbow.
Brown really wants to buck Cruz off and get back to his feet.
Cruz pushing the pace here, looking to move to his opponents back and work for a finish.
Brown wants to try and get back to his feet.
Cruz with good strikes from the mount here!
Cruz fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there! #SUB#
Cruz is in full mount, looking to secure a guillotine but Brown is surviving well by controlling Cruz's body position as best he can.
Brown is trying to stand up.
Cruz trying to control but Brown is having none of it. #ES2#
Brown somehow manages to escape the mount and get back to his feet!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz 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#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Brown as he jumps to the side.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt
and Brown counters with a three punch combo that has Cruz backing up. Cruz nods at Brown to acknowledge the strikes.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
and Brown counters with a three punch combo that has Cruz backing up. Cruz nods at Brown to acknowledge the strikes.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz closes the distance and clinches up with Brown, looking for a takedown. Cruz pushes Brown against the cage but Brown circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Brown is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Cruz dives in for a single leg takedown but Brown sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Brown throws a counter combo.#BC2#
Brown's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Brown displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Cruz.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Brown avoids it really well and circles away.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.#T1#
Cruz looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
As Cruz backs off Brown throws a huge counter combo but Cruz manages to avoid it all.
Cruz has a takedown stuffed.
As Cruz backs off Brown throws a huge counter combo but Cruz manages to avoid it all.
Bill Brown is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
and Brown counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Cruz with a poor takedown
and Brown counters with a left and a right that stings Cruz.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Brown is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Brown counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Horrible takedown attempt by Cruz or perhaps it was just good defense by Brown, which made it look bad.
Brown lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.#T2#
Cruz tries for a takedown but Brown sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Cruz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Brown counters with a series of strikes. Cruz will be more careful next time no doubt.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Cruz darts in looking for a takedown but Brown gets double underhooks and turns Cruz into the cage. #BC2#
Brown breaks from the clinch.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Brown sprawls well. Brown wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Brown as he jumps to the side.
Brown is looking for the big counter here.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Brown throws a counter combo.#T3#
Cruz misses with a takedown
and Brown counters with a one-two to the body.
Cruz fails with the takedown
and Brown counters with a one-two to the body.
Cruz shoots in but Brown avoids the takedown attempt easily.
As Cruz backs off Brown throws a huge counter combo but Cruz manages to avoid it all.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Brown counters with a one-two to the body.
Cruz fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Brown is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Cruz shoots in and drives through. Brown sprawls well.
Brown lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.
No luck for Cruz with that takedown attempt. #T4#
Cruz tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Brown swivels and escapes.
Brown is working the combinations to good effect here.
Cruz fails with the takedown.
Despite the aggression on Brown's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Ricardo Cruz is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Cruz closes the distance and clinches up with Brown, looking for a takedown. Cruz pushes Brown against the cage but Brown circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Brown unleashes a big counter combination but Cruz bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
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!
Cruz tries to score a power double leg takedown but Brown sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Cruz somewhat.
Brown is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Cruz gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Brown counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Brown counters with a series of strikes. Cruz will be more careful next time no doubt.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Bill Brown showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
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#
Cruz fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Despite the aggression on Brown's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Brown counters with a two punch combo.
Cruz fails with the takedown.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Brown counters with a two punch combo.
Cruz looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz fails with the takedown
and Brown counters with a three punch combo that has Cruz backing up. Cruz nods at Brown to acknowledge the strikes.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Cruz throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Brown's waist but Brown gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Cruz off to one side. #T1#
Brown keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Cruz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Brown counters with a series of strikes. Cruz will be more careful next time no doubt.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Brown counters with a one-two to the body.
Cruz shoots in for a double leg but Brown sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
As Cruz backs off Brown throws a huge counter combo but Cruz manages to avoid it all.
Cruz tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Brown swivels and escapes.
Brown stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Brown wants it to stay on the feet.
Brown is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.#T2#
Cruz is trying hard to land a takedown here. Brown sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Brown lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.
Cruz fails with the takedown.
Brown is looking for the big counter here.
Brown has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Cruz fails with the takedown
and Brown counters with a three punch combo that has Cruz backing up. Cruz nods at Brown to acknowledge the strikes.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt
and Brown counters with a three punch combo that has Cruz backing up. Cruz nods at Brown to acknowledge the strikes.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
and Brown counters with a three punch combo that has Cruz backing up. Cruz nods at Brown to acknowledge the strikes.
Cruz is trying hard to land a takedown here. Brown sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Despite the aggression on Brown's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Cruz is trying hard to land a takedown here. Brown sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Brown is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Brown stuffs the takedown attempt from Cruz. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Brown is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Cruz dives in and grabs Brown's left leg, looking for a takedown. Brown pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.#T3#
Cruz fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Brown avoids it really well and circles away.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Brown as he jumps to the side.
Brown stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Brown wants it to stay on the feet.
Brown throws a counter combo.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Brown counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Cruz gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Brown counters with a series of strikes. Cruz will be more careful next time no doubt.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Cruz.
Brown throws a counter combo.
Brown displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Cruz.
Brown throws a counter combo.#T4#
Cruz tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Brown defends well and Cruz ends up having to push Brown into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.#BC2#
Brown breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Cruz has a takedown stuffed.
Despite the aggression on Brown's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Brown but Brown pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Bill Brown seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Brown counters with a series of strikes. Cruz will be more careful next time no doubt.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Cruz.

And that's the end of the fight!
Bill Brown comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Brown 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 Nard Betker scores the fight 26:29
Judge Paulsen Ambrosius scores the fight 26:29
Judge Patrick Alders scores the fight 26:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Bill Brown!
A relieved looking Bill Brown 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: OFK 302 - Marek Vs Jankovic
Date: May 28, 2023

#R1#
Cruz closes this distance looking for a takedown but Ninja circles away.#TD#
Ninja scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Cruz is staying active underneath Ninja, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Cruz slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Cruz working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Ninja.
Ninja might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Cruz looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Cruz trying to keep a closed guard but Ninja is proving a slippery customer.
Ninja trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom.
Ninja is in close to Cruz's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Ninja chips away with some ground and pound.
Ninja keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Cruz's head.
Ninja has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ninja trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom.
Cruz is trying to control the position but Ninja postures up. #SUB2#
Cruz is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Ninja scoring with some ground and pound.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Ninja from controlling successfully. #T1#
Cruz is trying to keep Ninja in close.
Ninja is looking to work some ground and pound but Cruz has wrist control.#SUB2#
Ninja got a little sloppy there for a moment and Cruz has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Ninja has managed to get both his arms back between Cruz's legs - danger averted.
Ninja trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB2#
Ninja got a little sloppy there for a moment and Cruz has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Ninja has managed to get both his arms back between Cruz's legs - danger averted.#SUB2#
Cruz escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Ninja gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Cruz looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Ninja works over Cruz with some ground and pound from guard.
Ninja trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cruz lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Cruz prevents Ninja from getting back to his feet. #T2#
Ninja is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Cruz won't allow Ninja to sweep him here.
Cruz in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Cruz is pushing down on Ninja's leg trying to pass to half guard. Ninja is fighting to maintain full guard but Cruz has managed to sneak the leg through.
Cruz missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Cruz trying to control the action but Ninja is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Ninja defends it well.
Cruz is trying to control the action in half guard but Ninja is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Cruz working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
Cruz stops Ninja from getting back to his feet.
Ninja works his way to full guard. Good work.
Ninja preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Ninja is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Cruz defends well.
Cruz postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.#T3#
Cruz 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.
Ninja wants to stand up but Cruz is controlling him.
Ninja 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.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Ninja is keeping the position for now.
Cruz pushes down on Ninja's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Cruz trying to control from half guard but Ninja is working away. #SUB#
Ninja looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Ninja is trying to maintain the position but Cruz is very close to passing his half guard.#T4#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Ninja is trying to stand.
Cruz thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Cruz is nestled in close to Ninja, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Ninja is looking to control Cruz's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Ninja avoid being mounted?
Ninja wants to get back to his feet.
Cruz is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Ninja is trying to stand back up but Cruz is controlling him
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Ricardo Cruz will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Cruz changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Ninja tries to avoid it but Cruz manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Ninja to the ground. Ninja escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet. #TD#
Ninja gets a takedown into half guard.
Cruz is not content to let Ninja control the position.
Cruz tries to get to full guard but Ninja has control of the leg.
Ninja working the head and body with strikes.
Ninja wants to free his trapped foot but Cruz is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Ninja is keen to just control but Cruz is a slippery customer.
Ninja trying to pass the guard but Cruz defending well.
Cruz has hold of Ninja's hands but Ninja slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz is trying to get back to full guard.
We've been hearing that Ninja has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.#SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar. #T1#
Ninja trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Ninja postures up and lands a big shot to Cruz's brow.
Ninja keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Cruz's head.#SUB2#
Ninja got a little sloppy there for a moment and Cruz has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Ninja has managed to get both his arms back between Cruz's legs - danger averted.
Ninja landing with the ground and pound.
Ninja won't allow Cruz to sweep him here.
Ninja with a nice head shot there.
Ninja makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.#SUB2#
Ninja avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Ninja from controlling successfully.
Cruz is trying to control the position but Ninja postures up.
Ninja trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom.
Ninja postures up and lands some nice ground and pound. #T2#
Ninja wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving.
Ninja scoring with punches to the head and body.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Cruz is on top in guard. #REVB#
Ninja is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Cruz won't allow Ninja to sweep him here.
Cruz pushes down on Ninja's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Ninja wants to get back to his feet.
Ninja trying desperately to get back to his feet here but he's not having any joy at all. He's going to tire himself out if he's not careful.
Cruz is looking to stall here but Ninja recovers full guard. #T3#
Cruz pushes down on Ninja's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but Ninja defending well.
Ninja wants to control but Cruz is keeping busy.
Ninja is looking to escape.
Cruz takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.
Ninja trying to control but Cruz postures up.
Cruz is just content to waste time from the top position. Ninja takes advantage of the situation and regains full guard.
Cruz postures up.
Cruz is looking to work some ground and pound but Ninja has wrist control.
Cruz with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.#T4#
Ninja 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.
Ninja wants to stand and escape but Cruz is having none of it.
Ninja can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cruz controls the pace.
Cruz lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Cruz chips away with some ground and pound.
Cruz passes Ninja's left leg - he's now in half guard. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Ninja defends it well.
Ninja tries to kick Cruz off but Cruz keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz wants to advance to full mount but Ninja doesn't think that's going to happen and regains full guard instead.
Ninja wants to get back to his feet but Cruz is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
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 Murilo Ninja will probably get the nod.
That's time! Back to the action! The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!#R3#
Cruz throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Ninja's waist but Ninja gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Cruz off to one side.
Cruz tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Ninja swivels and escapes.
Ninja misses with a hook.
Ninja jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent. #CUT#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Cruz moves out of range as Ninja strikes.
Cruz ducks under a wild hook from Ninja.
Cruz is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.#TD#
Ninja throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Cruz was covering up waiting for the punch and Ninja finishes the takedown easily into guard. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking to cinch up a triangle. Ninja throws the leg off to one side though and gets in tight to Cruz's body to avoid the submission. Cruz has instead reached around Ninja's neck and now has a guillotine! Oh, this is biiiig trouble! Cruz arches his back and squeezes and forces the tap from his hapless opponent.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:40 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: OFK 289 - Santaban Vs Marek
Date: Apr 15, 2023

#R1#
Kelly throws the left hand but Cruz avoids the punch easily.
Jab, jab by Kelly - just one landing.
Kelly scores with a jab to the head.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Kelly shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Cruz dives in and grabs Kelly's left leg, looking for a takedown. Kelly pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.
The fighters circling - Kelly throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Cruz looks for a takedown but Kelly sprawls well.
Kelly steps in looking to clinch after the strikes miss from Cruz.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Kelly throws a jab but it's blocked by Cruz.
Cruz drops down looking for a counter takedown but Kelly sprawls and moves away.
Kelly cracks Cruz with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Cruz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Kelly counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Kelly counters with a right hand to the body. #TD#
Cruz closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Kelly's 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!
Kelly tries to land a sweep but no joy.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Cruz got a little sloppy there for a moment and Kelly has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Cruz has managed to get both his arms back between Kelly's legs - danger averted.
Cruz throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Kelly looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T1#
Cruz trying to control but Kelly is working from the bottom.
We've been hearing that Cruz has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Cruz lands a couple of elbows.
Kelly tries to land a sweep but no joy.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Kelly looking for a guillotine here but Cruz defends easily.
Kelly not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Kelly looking to hit a scissor sweep but Cruz is one step ahead there.
Kelly keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Cruz lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Kelly can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cruz controls the pace.
Kelly looking to control.
Kelly manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Cruz manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB##T2#
Cruz wants to sweep here but Kelly controlling him for the moment.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Cruz is on top in guard. #REVR#
Cruz advances position into side control!
Cruz controls the position from side control.
Cruz tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
Kelly is looking to regain half guard here but Cruz keeps moving and retains side control. #SUB#
Cruz is trying to get an arm triangle but Kelly is defending well. #T3#
Kelly gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard. #SUB#
Kelly is defending against the submission attempts here by Cruz.
Kelly is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Cruz's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Cruz's back!
Cruz is keeping busy.
Cruz trying to control the position but Kelly manages to sink in the hooks.
Cruz is really stuck here.
Cruz tries to escape the position - he's now mounted. Is that better or worse? Hard to tell!
Kelly trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Cruz is in all sorts of trouble here. #T4#
Cruz regains half guard.
Cruz is pressing down on Kelly's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Cruz is on top in guard. #REVR#
Cruz landing some decent shots from guard.
Cruz trying to control but Kelly is working from the bottom.
Cruz passes Kelly's left leg - he's now in half guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Kelly is looking for a sweep. Cruz is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#SUB#
Cruz is working for a kimura but Kelly is defending it quite comfortably.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Pat Kelly will probably get the nod.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action.#R2#
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Kelly.
Cruz shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Kelly pinned against the cage. Kelly gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Cruz tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Kelly defends well and Cruz ends up having to push Kelly into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Kelly fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Ricardo Cruz is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.#CL2#
Kelly moves into the clinch.
Kelly digs a right hand into Cruz's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Cruz's gas tank.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Kelly fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Cruz takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Nice takedown defense from Kelly. No joy for Cruz on that attempt.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Kelly as he avoids it easily.
Kelly keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.#T1#
Nice defenses there by Cruz.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Kelly lands with an overhand left.
Decent striking displayed by Kelly there.
Kelly has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#TD2#
Kelly scores with a takedown into Cruz's guard.
Kelly is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Kelly wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving.
Kelly is pushing down on Cruz's leg trying to pass to half guard. Cruz is fighting to maintain full guard but Kelly has managed to sneak the leg through.
Kelly winds up and cracks Cruz with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Kelly prevents Cruz from improving his position.
Cruz is working hard here to advance position.#T2#
Cruz is in trouble now - Kelly has advanced to mount!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Cruz is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Ricardo Cruz overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Kelly cracks Cruz with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Kelly lands a heavy elbow.
BOOM! Kelly connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Kelly landing strikes, looking to finish!
Kelly has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Cruz's face.
Cruz 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.
Cruz tries to roll over but Kelly keeps him under control.
Kelly thows a huge punch but Cruz dodges it nicely.
Cruz trying to control but Kelly postures up. #T3#
Kelly working the head and body with strikes.
My spies in 3Band MMA inform me that Kelly has been getting involved in the gym's BJJ sparring sessions. Let's see whether that pays dividends!
Cruz is looking to improve his position.
Cruz taking some punishment here, with Kelly in his half guard.
Kelly working over Cruz with some ground and pound. Cruz looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Kelly seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Cruz does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Kelly prevents Cruz from improving his position.
Cruz won't allow Kelly to pass to mount.
Cruz wants to improve his position but Kelly is controlling well.
Cruz is not content to let Kelly control the position.
Cruz blocking the ground and pound attempt from Kelly.
Kelly wants to take a breather but Cruz is having none of it.
Cruz wants to get back to full guard.#T4#
Kelly is trying to control the action in half guard but Cruz is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Cruz wants to control but Kelly is keeping busy.
Cruz is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Cruz is not content to let Kelly control the position.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Kelly lands a nice short elbow.
Cruz is looking for a sweep. Kelly is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Kelly is trying to control the action in half guard but Cruz is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Cruz works his way to full guard. Good work.
Cruz 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.
Kelly scoring with punches to the head and body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Pat Kelly 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. And we move into the final round!#R3#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Kelly shows good takedown defense.
Cruz avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Cruz closes the distance and clinches up with Kelly, looking for a takedown. Cruz pushes Kelly against the cage but Kelly circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Kelly looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Pat Kelly seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Cruz ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Kelly throws a hook to the side of Cruz's head but Cruz sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Cruz dives in and grabs Kelly's left leg, looking for a takedown. Kelly pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
No luck for Cruz with that takedown attempt.
Cruz takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Kelly fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Cruz on the side of the head.
Kelly lands a nice shot to the body.
Kelly pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kelly misses with an uppercut. Cruz saw that one coming.#TD#
Cruz scores with a takedown into Kelly's guard.

Kelly manages to wriggle out and sneak his way back up to his feet, so the fighters are now clinched up against the cage.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cruz changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Kelly fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.#T1##TD2#
Kelly throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Cruz tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Kelly is in Cruz's guard.
Kelly wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving. #SUB#
Cruz working for a triangle but Kelly defends it easily.
Kelly cracks Cruz with a solid left hand.
Kelly works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Kelly uses his free foot to push down on Cruz's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Cruz.
Cruz is trying to escape the mount.
Kelly lands a heavy elbow. #T2#
Cruz is in all sorts of trouble here.
Kelly with shots to the head and body - Cruz looks very uncomfortable down there.
Kelly lands a nice shot to the head. #CUT2#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Cruz is desperately trying to improve his position but Kelly has a good base and remains in mount.
Kelly tries to control but Cruz wriggling away.
Cruz is looking to get to half guard.
Kelly trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Kelly prevents Cruz from getting the reversal.
Kelly cracks Cruz with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Cruz bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
Kelly lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Kelly is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact. #T3#
Kelly distracts Cruz with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Kelly passes into half guard.
Cruz is not content to let Kelly control the position.
Kelly prevents Cruz from improving his position.
Kelly wants to pass the guard but Cruz is defending well.
Kelly throwing shots but Cruz is blocking nicely. #SUB2#
Kelly 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.
Kelly is nestled in close to Cruz, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.#T4#
Cruz is looking for a sweep. Kelly is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Cruz wants to get back to full guard but Kelly has passed into side control.
Cruz is looking for a sweep.
Cruz looking for a sweep but Kelly has passed into full mount! Oh no!
Kelly controlling the pace for now.
Cruz can't escape the position.
Kelly can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Cruz is looking to escape.
Kelly cracks Cruz with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Ricardo Cruz has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Pat Kelly is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Kelly working the ground and pound effectively.

And that's the end of the fight!
Pat Kelly comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Kelly 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 Saam Ante scores the fight 27:30
Judge Nard Betker scores the fight 27:30
Judge Wagner Zegers scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Pat Kelly!

Event: OFK 280 - Cruz Vs Khan
Date: Mar 12, 2023

#R1#
A looping hook to the body misses from Khan. Cruz does a little dance to reset his feet.
Khan misses with a straight right. #TD#
Cruz shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Cruz is trying to control the action in half guard but Khan is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Cruz trying to mount his opponent but Khan defends it.
Khan trying to control from the bottom. #SUB#
Cruz seems to be looking for submissions.
Khan is looking for a sweep. Cruz is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Khan is refusing to be controlled, as Cruz sits in half guard.
Cruz sitting and controlling from the half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz trying to control from half guard but Khan is working away.
Khan has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Cruz is working away from the top position though.#T1##SUB#
Cruz is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game. #SUB#
Cruz seems to be working for a kimura but Khan defends the submission attempt.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Khan wants to improve his position but Cruz is controlling well.
Khan slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Khan is controlling Cruz's posture.
Cruz lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Khan keeps moving. #T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Khan looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Cruz trying to control but Khan is working from the bottom.
Cruz is fighting to break Khan's control of his arms but Khan is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
Cruz controlling from the top position.
Cruz trying to control but Khan is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Cruz has gone for a leg lock! Khan slips out almost immediately though and dives into Cruz's guard.#REVB##SUB#
Cruz isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Khan stacks Cruz 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 Khan!
Cruz is trying to improve his position.#T3#
Cruz is working hard here to advance position.
Cruz seems a little lost for a moment, as Khan dominates the positioning.
Cruz is not content to let Khan control the position.
Khan taking a breather here.
Cruz is looking to reverse the position.
Khan wants to lay and pray for a moment but Cruz keeps working.
Cruz gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Cruz regains full guard. Nicely done. #T4#
Khan stays in close to Cruz's body and controls the position.
Cruz looking to hit a scissor sweep but Khan is one step ahead there.
Khan is pushing down on Cruz's leg trying to pass to half guard. Cruz is fighting to maintain full guard but Khan has managed to sneak the leg through.
Khan looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Cruz is looking to improve his position.
Cruz gets back to full guard.
Khan's corner is telling him to maintain position.
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.

A close round but Bora Khan will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt - Khan sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Khan lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Cruz will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Cruz misses with a takedown
and Khan cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz walks into a straight right hand from Khan.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Khan but Khan pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Cruz has a takedown stuffed.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt
and Khan counters with a stiff right hand. #CUT2#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Khan smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Cruz looks for a takedown but Khan sprawls well.
Cruz takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure. #T1#
Cruz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Khan counters with a lovely straight right hand!#ROC2#Cruz is rocked!
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Khan counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Khan lands a head shot.
Oh Cruz is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Khan has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
A left lands for Khan.
Khan 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.
Bora Khan is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Nice sprawl there from Khan as Cruz shoots in.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Khan but Khan pushes him off and we're back to square one.
BOOM! Khan lands a beautiful left hook that drops Cruz. Cruz tries to recover but Khan is having none of it, landing more punishing shots from mount. One final crushing shot and Cruz lies motionless on the canvas. The fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:39 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Bora Khan!
Bora Khan is the new middleweight champion!
Bora Khan thanked the fans post fight for their support.

Event: OFK 271 - Escalante Vs Cruz
Date: Feb 11, 2023

#R1#
Cruz takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.#TD2#
Cruz gets the takedown into side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Cruz is in a dominant position here, looking for a kimura. Escalante looks calm but he's in trouble here. Cruz gets his leg over his opponent's head and yanks on the arm. Escalante is tapping like a morse code operator on the titanic! SOS! SOS! Cruz lets go of the hold and Escalante can pop his arm back in it's socket.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Ricardo Cruz!
Ricardo Cruz is the new middleweight champion!
In defeat, Vicente Escalante stepped up to the mic, saying 'I yam what I yam...that's all I yam.'.

Event: OFK 259 - New Year Fight Night
Date: Dec 31, 2022

#R1#
Cruz closes the distance and clinches up with Hedegaard, looking for a takedown. Cruz pushes Hedegaard against the cage but Hedegaard circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Hedegaard manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
Cruz working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Cruz has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Hedegaard wants to sweep here but Cruz controlling him for the moment.
Hedegaard trying to control the position.
Hedegaard keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Hedegaard is trying to control the position but Cruz postures up.
Cruz keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Hedegaard's head.#SUB#
Hedegaard had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Cruz defends it easily.
Hedegaard will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Cruz landing with the ground and pound.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Hedegaard swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Hedegaard seems to have improved his submission grappling technique since last time we saw him. Let's see if he can pull off a submission.
Cruz stopping the sweep attempt from Hedegaard.#T1#
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Hedegaard is keeping the position.
Cruz content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Cruz controls from within his opponent's guard.
Cruz postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Cruz stopping the sweep attempt from Hedegaard.
Cruz stays in close to Hedegaard's body and controls the position.
Hedegaard keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Cruz loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Hedegaard not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Cruz trying to control but Hedegaard is working from the bottom.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #T2##SUB#
Hedegaard looking for a guillotine here but Cruz defends easily.
Cruz showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Cruz trying to control but Hedegaard is working from the bottom.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.#TD#
Hedegaard scores with a takedown into Cruz's guard.
Cruz looking to hit a scissor sweep but Hedegaard is one step ahead there. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening. #T3##SUB2#
Cruz is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Cruz wants to sweep but no luck. #SUB2#
Cruz escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Hedegaard gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Cruz wants to improve his position but instead Hedegaard has moved into half guard.
Hedegaard is trying to control the action in half guard but Cruz is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #SUB#
Hedegaard wants to work for an arm triangle but Cruz is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Cruz 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.
Cruz is looking to improve his position.
Cruz is refusing to be controlled, as Hedegaard sits in half guard.
Hedegaard is really struggling to control Cruz but he's trying to hold on to the position.#T4#
Cruz is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Hedegaard's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Hedegaard's back!
Hedegaard rolls and manages to get back to half guard. Nicely done.
Hedegaard works his way to full guard. Good work.
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Hedegaard swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Hedegaard really does look like a pencil wearing a pair of gloves. Let's hope he has a gameplan to suit that ridiculous body shape.#SUB#
Hedegaard is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Cruz defends well.#SUB#
Hedegaard looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Cruz passes Hedegaard's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Cruz passes to full mount!
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz cracks Hedegaard with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Hedegaard taking shots to the head.
Cruz wants to control the pace but Hedegaard is squirming around nicely.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2##TD#
Hedegaard drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Hedegaard wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving.
Hedegaard is looking to work some ground and pound but Cruz has wrist control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Hedegaard works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Cruz moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Hedegaard sitting in guard here, content to control. #SUB2#
Cruz escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Hedegaard gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Hedegaard from controlling successfully.
Ricardo Cruz has got the better of the ground game so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz wants to improve his position but instead Hedegaard has moved into half guard. #SUB2#
Cruz looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#T1#
Hedegaard wants to pass to mount but Cruz is defending the position.
Cruz moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Hedegaard trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Hedegaard looking to pass the guard.
Hedegaard works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Cruz is holding on to half guard well.
Hedegaard prevents Cruz from improving his position.
Cruz manages to get to full guard. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar. #T2#
Hedegaard trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Hedegaard scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Hedegaard stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Cruz swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Cruz 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.
Hedegaard not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Hedegaard wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving. #SUB2#
Cruz working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Hedegaard doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Hedegaard manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Hedegaard from controlling successfully. #T3##SUB2#
Cruz has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Hedegaard can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Hedegaard has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Cruz 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#
Cruz is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Cruz tries to pass the half guard into mount. Hedegaard knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt. #SUB#
Hedegaard is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Cruz pulls his head out easily.
Hedegaard gets full guard.
Hedegaard trying to keep a closed guard but Cruz is proving a slippery customer.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Hedegaard keeps moving. #T4#
Hedegaard keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass. #SUB#
Cruz avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Cruz controls from within his opponent's guard. #SUB#
Hedegaard looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Cruz controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Cruz advances position into side control!
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Hedegaard regains half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Ricardo Cruz 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.#R3#
No luck for Cruz with that takedown attempt.
Cruz tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Hedegaard swivels and escapes.
Hedegaard changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.#TD#
Hedegaard looking to score a takedown here. Cruz is defending well but Hedegaard drives through and ends up in Cruz's guard.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Hedegaard from controlling successfully. #SUB2#
Cruz has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Hedegaard can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Hedegaard scoring with punches to the head and body.
Hedegaard trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB2#
Cruz escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Hedegaard gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hedegaard stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Cruz swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Cruz looking to hit a scissor sweep but Hedegaard is one step ahead there. #T1#
Hedegaard postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Cruz looking to control. #SUB#
Hedegaard drops back looking for a leg! Cruz is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Cruz manages to kick Hedegaard off! Hedegaard jumps back into Cruz's guard.
Hedegaard preventing the sweep.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Hedegaard from controlling successfully. #SUB2#
Cruz escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Hedegaard gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Hedegaard slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening. #T2##SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Cruz takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Hedegaard trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Cruz is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Hedegaard is pushing down on Cruz's leg trying to pass to half guard. Cruz is fighting to maintain full guard but Hedegaard has managed to sneak the leg through.
The fighters are battling for position here. Cruz manages to regain full guard. Nice work. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Hedegaard trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Hedegaard from controlling successfully.
Hedegaard slips nicely into half guard.
Cruz works his way to full guard. Good work.#T3##SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a triangle but Hedegaard pushes his legs off easily.
Hedegaard trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Hedegaard keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Cruz's head.#SUB2#
Hedegaard avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #SUB#
Hedegaard drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Hedegaard jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Hedegaard from controlling successfully.
Hedegaard won't allow Cruz to sweep him here.
Hedegaard trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.#SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Hedegaard defends well.#SUB2#
Cruz working for a triangle but Hedegaard defends it easily.
Hedegaard scoring with some ground and pound.
Hedegaard working some strikes from top position.
Cruz manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Hedegaard manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
Hedegaard 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.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Hedegaard keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass. #SUB#
Hedegaard has his foot on Cruz's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Cruz works his way back into a safe position though.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but Simon Hedegaard did the better work so I'd imagine he'll take it.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R4#
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown but Hedegaard manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Cruz's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Cruz shoots for a double leg takedown but Hedegaard sprawls well. He's pushed Cruz's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt - Hedegaard sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Simon Hedegaard has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Hedegaard waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Cruz.#TD2#
Cruz fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Hedegaard sprawls well initially but Cruz persists and gets the takedown into half guard. #SUB#
Hedegaard looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB2#
Cruz seems to be looking for submissions.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Hedegaard 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.
Hedegaard is looking to control Cruz's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Hedegaard avoid being mounted?
Cruz content to sit in half guard and control for a moment.
Cruz is absolutely dripping with sweat - he looks exhausted.#T1##SUB2#
Cruz is trying to work for a kimura but Hedegaard is defending well.
Cruz wants to free his trapped foot but Hedegaard is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Hedegaard wants to get back to full guard.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Cruz lands a nice short elbow.
Hedegaard works his way to full guard. Good work.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Hedegaard is keeping the position.
Cruz pushes down on Hedegaard's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Hedegaard is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Cruz's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Cruz's back!
Hedegaard keeps control of the position as Cruz tries to break free. #T2#
Cruz is still trying to improve position.
Cruz breaks Hedegaard's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard. #SUB#
Hedegaard working for a triangle but Cruz defends it easily.
Cruz trying to control but Hedegaard is working from the bottom.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Cruz's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Hedegaard trying to control the position.
Cruz tries to free his leg and advance position but Hedegaard is retaining full guard.
Cruz preventing the sweep. #SUB#
Cruz got a little sloppy there for a moment and Hedegaard has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Cruz has managed to get both his arms back between Hedegaard's legs - danger averted.#T3#
Cruz slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.#SUB2#
Cruz wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Hedegaard, who protects the arm well.
Cruz tries to advance to mount but Hedegaard denies him.
Hedegaard is trying to improve his position.
Cruz has knee on belly and now moves to full mount! Trouble for Hedegaard!
Cruz landing strikes, looking to finish!
Cruz lands a big elbow.
Cruz prevents Hedegaard from getting the reversal.#SUB2#
Cruz is going oldschool here, as he tries to force Hedegaard to tap using a forearm choke. This isn't 1993 though, so Hedegaard shrugs it off.
Cruz with good strikes from the mount here!#T4#
Hedegaard is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Cruz has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Hedegaard's face.
Cruz can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Hedegaard is looking to escape.
A nice elbow there by Cruz.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cruz can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Hedegaard is looking to escape. #SUB2#
Cruz is working for a guillotine from mount but Hedegaard frees his head quite easily.
Cruz lands a couple of good shots and Hedegaard has given up his back, trying to escape the position!
Cruz controlling the position well here. Hedegaard rolled but Cruz kept the hooks locked in and stayed in the dominant position. #SUB2#
Cruz is persistently looking for the submission but Hedegaard is defending it well.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz 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#
Cruz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown #TD#
so Hedegaard counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Hedegaard trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom.
Cruz bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Hedegaard's guard. #REVB#
Cruz not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up. #SUB#
Hedegaard working for a triangle but Cruz defends it easily.
Cruz pushing down on Hedegaard's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Hedegaard defends it well. #SUB2#
Cruz is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Cruz is wobbling all over the place through exhaustion. Will he make it to the final bell?
Hedegaard is looking for a sweep. Cruz is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#T1#
Hedegaard regains full guard. Nicely done.
Cruz sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Hedegaard's guard. #SUB2#
Cruz is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Hedegaard has managed to free his arm - good work. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a kimura here. #SUB2#
Cruz maintaining the dominant position here and is working for a kimura. He's locked it up! Hedegaard could be in real trouble here! He's trying to wriggle out but Cruz has cracked it and Hedegaard is screaming in pain - he's tapped out! Great finish by Cruz!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:54 of round 5, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Ricardo Cruz!
Ricardo Cruz is the new middleweight champion!

Event: OFK 245 - Paris Vs Kelly
Date: Nov 12, 2022

#R1##TD#
Cruz gets a takedown into half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Kurtev is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Kurtev tries to strike from the bottom but it doesn't land.
Kurtev misses with some strikes from the bottom. #SUB2#
Kurtev looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Cruz moves into full mount! Kurtev won't be happy about that!
BOOM! Cruz connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Kurtev wants to control but Cruz is having none of it.
Kurtev taking shots to the head.
Cruz trying to control but Kurtev is having none of it. #SUB#
Cruz is working on an americana here. Ooh, that looks pretty nasty! Nope, Kurtev has managed to escape the submission attempt.
Kurtev is flailing around like a fish out of water, trying to land strikes.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#SUB#
Cruz is in full mount, looking to secure a guillotine but Kurtev is surviving well by controlling Cruz's body position as best he can. #T1##SUB#
Cruz jumps to side control looking for an arm triangle but Kurtev manages to avoid the submission attempt.
Kurtev is trying to control Cruz's posture but Cruz avoids it.
Kurtev is looking for a sweep.
Cruz trying to control the position but Kurtev is working away. #SUB#
Cruz tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Cruz has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Kurtev gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Kurtev missing with punches from the bottom.
Cruz wants to take a breather but Kurtev is having none of it.
Kurtev tries to strike from the bottom but it doesn't land.
Cruz stalling away here and it's allowed Kurtev to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
Kurtev wants to sweep here but Cruz controlling him for the moment. #T2##SUB2#
Kurtev looking for a guillotine here but Cruz defends easily.
Kurtev is trying to keep Cruz in close.
Cruz stands and throws Kurtev's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Kurtev regains half guard.#SUB#
Cruz is working for a kimura but Kurtev is defending it quite comfortably.
Kurtev tries to strike from the bottom but it doesn't land. #ES2#
Kurtev manages to escape and get back to his feet! #TD#
Kurtev gets caught flat footed, as Cruz shoots in with a quick 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!
Cruz tries to free his leg and advance position but Kurtev is retaining full guard. #SUB2#
Kurtev had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Cruz defends it easily.
Cruz pushes down on Kurtev's leg and manages to get into half guard.#T3#
Kurtev is trying to get back to full guard.
Cruz lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears. #SUB#
Cruz seems to be working for a kimura but Kurtev defends the submission attempt.
Kurtev tries to strike from the bottom but it doesn't land.
Cruz is trying to control. Kurtev wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Cruz trying to mount his opponent but Kurtev defends it.
Kurtev misses with some strikes from the bottom.
Cruz seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
Kurtev wants to improve his position but Cruz is controlling well. #SUB#
Cruz is looking for a kimura but Kurtev is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Cruz to get the leverage. #T4#
Cruz blocks the strikes from Kurtev.
Kurtev throws a strike from the bottom that misses.
Nice strikes from Cruz there.
Kurtev trying to control here.
Kurtev throws a strike from the bottom that misses.
Kurtev lands with a few short shots to the body.
Cruz takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.
Kurtev is not content to let Cruz control the position.
Cruz blocks the strikes from Kurtev.
Cruz seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Kurtev does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Cruz is looking to advance position but Kurtev won't allow it. #SUB#
Cruz is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Kurtev doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Cruz.
Kurtev won't allow Cruz to pass to mount.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2##TD2#
Kurtev bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Kurtev working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Cruz is trying to get back to half guard.
Cruz gets back to half guard.
Ricardo Cruz overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Kurtev is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
Cruz keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Kurtev lands with some strikes.
Cruz is looking to improve his position but Kurtev isn't that keen on the idea.
Cruz is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Kurtev can do to turn this around?
Cruz is working hard here to advance position.
Cruz regains half guard.
Kurtev missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Kurtev scoring with strikes to the body and head. #CUT2#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.#T1#
Cruz is trying to control but Kurtev passes into side control!
Cruz taking punishment in the form of punches.
Cruz tries to improve position but can't.
Cruz gets back to half guard.#SUB#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back.
Nice strikes from Kurtev there. #SUB#
Cruz looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB2#
Kurtev 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. #SUB#
Cruz actively working from the bottom here.#T2#
Kurtev is nestled in close to Cruz, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Cruz makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Cruz.
Cruz is trying to control the position but Kurtev postures up.
Kurtev landing some decent shots from guard. #CUT2#Ricardo Cruz's cut is getting worse.#SUB#
Cruz looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Kurtev trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom.
Kurtev stands up over Cruz, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head. #CUT2#Ricardo Cruz's cut is bleeding quite badly. He's got to try and protect it.#SUB#
Cruz working for submissions but it's allowed Kurtev to get to half guard.
The fighters are battling for position here. Cruz manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Kurtev must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.#T3#
Kurtev throwing strikes but missing.
Kurtev makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Kurtev is working Cruz over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes. #CUT2#Jeez, Ricardo Cruz's cut is really nasty now. The referee must be thinking about getting that checked.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:36 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Krisko Kurtev!
Krisko Kurtev decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: OFK 233 - Pellegrini Vs Dokov
Date: Oct 01, 2022

#R1#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Gomez shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Cruz was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
Gomez wants to get back to his feet but Cruz drags him back down.#SUB2#
Cruz has an Americana. Gomez didn't react quickly enough there and he's in big trouble now! He tries to squirm out but is forced to tap! Cruz is delighted and gyrates in front of the ring girls. They seem to like the attention - it'll be interesting to see if Cruz hooks up with any of them at the after show party.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:30 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: OFK 223 - Do Urden Vs Barnes
Date: Aug 27, 2022

#R1##TD2#
Cruz manages to get an easy takedown there - catching Ninja on his heels. He'll look to pass Ninja's guard now, I'm sure.
Ninja keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass.
Cruz postures up.
Ninja is really struggling to control Cruz but he's trying to hold on to the position.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Ninja is keeping the position for now.
Ninja wants to sweep but no luck.
Ninja is looking to stand up but Cruz isn't so interested in that idea.
Ninja keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Ninja is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz forces his way into half guard.#SUB2#
Cruz is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Cruz stalling. #T1#
Ninja regains full guard. Nicely done.
Ninja wants to stand but Cruz is controlling the position.
Cruz passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Ninja wants to control but Cruz postures up.
Ninja is trying to escape and get back to his feet.#SUB2#
Cruz is working to tighten his grip on Ninja's neck. He's isolated an arm and is working for an arm triangle. Ninja has recognised the danger and is trying to turn with the submission but Cruz is really squeezing tight and eventually Ninja passes out! Cruz breaks the hold and jumps onto the cage to celebrate! Submission of the night, I'd say!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Arm Triangle). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: OFK 204 - Kiran Vs Gunner
Date: Jun 19, 2022

#R1#
Cruz looks for a takedown but White sprawls well.#CL2#
White forces Cruz back against the cage and clinches.#TD#
Cruz lands a takedown into guard.
Cruz trying to control but White is working from the bottom.
We've been hearing that Cruz has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Cruz advances to half guard. #SUB#
Cruz is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Cruz trying to control the action but White is working from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
White is defending against the submission attempts here by Cruz.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz is pressing down on White's thigh, looking to free his foot. White is holding on for now. #T1#
Cruz controlling the action here.
Cruz tries to pass to full mount but White defends it.
Cruz moves into full mount! White won't be happy about that!
Cruz controlling the position easily from mount.
White tries to hold on but Cruz postures up.#T2#
Cruz looking to control but White is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
White is trying to get back to his feet but can't.
Cruz fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
White is in a horrible position here. Cruz smacks him with another shot as he tries to escape the position.
Cruz lands a nice shot to the head. #SUB#
Cruz is looking to secure an arm. He's managed it! He's pivoting for an armbar - that looks tight! But White has managed to get out of it and now he's in a dominant position. Nice work from White! #SUB#
Cruz throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!#SUB#
Cruz has his foot on White's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. White works his way back into a safe position though.#T3##SUB#
White avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #SUB#
White got a little sloppy there for a moment and Cruz has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, White has managed to get both his arms back between Cruz's legs - danger averted.#SUB#
Cruz looking for a triangle here. White is fighting it but it looks tight! Cruz pulls the arm across and this one won't last much longer! Nope, White is tapping out - this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:36 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Choke). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: OFK 188 - Lovanov Vs Mad Onion
Date: Apr 24, 2022

#R1##TD2#
Cruz drives through with a takedown into Kurtev's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Kurtev keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully. #SUB#
Kurtev throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Cruz sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Kurtev's guard.
Kurtev trying to control here. #SUB#
Kurtev actively working from the bottom here.
Cruz working the head and body with strikes.
Cruz perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
Cruz takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Cruz with a momentary lay and pray from half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nice strikes from Cruz there.
Kurtev wants to control but Cruz is keeping busy and won't allow it. #SUB2#
Cruz is working for a submission of some sort.
Cruz wants to control but Kurtev is keeping him busy. #T1#
Cruz passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Kurtev!
Kurtev is looking to get to half guard.
Kurtev wants to hold on but Cruz pushes him away.
Cruz takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Kurtev in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head. #SUB2#
Cruz has control of Kurtev's right arm, working for a kimura. It's a bit of a token attempt though and Kurtev regains control of the situation pretty easily.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Cruz looking to control but Kurtev is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Cruz working his ground and pound in the gym. So far it seems to be working well.#SUB2#
Cruz has control of Kurtev's right arm, working for a kimura. It's a bit of a token attempt though and Kurtev regains control of the situation pretty easily.
Kurtev wants to hold on but Cruz pushes him away.#T2#
Kurtev tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Cruz avoids the attempt from Kurtev to control.
Cruz lands with some vicious ground and pound - can Kurtev hang on?
Cruz tries to control but Kurtev wriggling away.
Kurtev tries to hold on but Cruz postures up.
Cruz has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Kurtev really wants to buck Cruz off and get back to his feet.
Cruz cracks Kurtev with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.#SUB2#
Cruz is working on an americana here. Ooh, that looks pretty nasty! Nope, Kurtev has managed to escape the submission attempt.
Cruz tries to control but Kurtev wriggling away.
Kurtev flailing away with punches but nothing is landing.
Cruz in mount throwing good strikes here, bouncing his opponent's head off the canvas.
Kurtev is wriggling around trying to escape.
Kurtev tries to lock up and control but Cruz gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.#T3#
Cruz looking to control but Kurtev is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Kurtev in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
Cruz controlling the pace for now.
Kurtev is desperately trying to improve his position but Cruz has a good base and remains in mount.
Cruz pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Kurtev swinging wildly from the bottom but he's not landing.
Kurtev tries to lock up and control but Cruz gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Cruz putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Cruz landing strikes from the mount and Kurtev is in trouble!
Cruz avoids the attempt from Kurtev to control.
Kurtev is looking to get to half guard.
Cruz postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Kurtev looks a forlorn figure. #T4#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Kurtev is looking to get to half guard.
Cruz putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Kurtev has given up his back. Will we see Cruz going for some submissions?
I really don't envy Kurtev right now.
Kurtev rolls and manages to get back to half guard. Nicely done.
Kurtev connecting with a few gentle strikes.
Cruz is trying to control the action in half guard but Kurtev is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Cruz frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Cruz moves to the back.
Kurtev trying to control but he's just got himself in more trouble.
Kurtev rolls, trying to escape but Cruz keeps control of the position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2##TD2#
Kurtev tries to sprawl but Cruz drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Kurtev is trying to get back to full guard.#SUB2#
Cruz is trying to work for a kimura but Kurtev is defending well.
Kurtev tries to strike from the bottom but it doesn't land.
Cruz seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime. #SUB#
Kurtev looking for submissions off his back.
Cruz is trying to control. Kurtev wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Kurtev trying to hold on to Cruz's head to control him but Cruz postures up. #SUB#
Kurtev is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Cruz pulls his head out easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kurtev wants to control but Cruz is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Cruz frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Kurtev really trying hard to get back to half guard here. #T1#
Cruz raining down hammerfists from mount.
Kurtev is controlling an arm, preventing Cruz from taking his back. Although keeping him in mount is no better to be honest. #SUB2#
Cruz is in full mount, looking to secure a guillotine but Kurtev is surviving well by controlling Cruz's body position as best he can.
Kurtev regains half guard.
Cruz is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Kurtev flails away from the bottom but he's not doing any damage. #SUB2#
Cruz seems to be looking for submissions.
Cruz tries to pass the half guard into mount. Kurtev knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Kurtev trying to hold on to Cruz's head to control him but Cruz postures up.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but Kurtev defending well.
Cruz scores with a couple of good hammerfists.#T2##SUB#
Kurtev looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
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. Cruz connects with a nice short shot to Kurtev's temple.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but Kurtev defending well.
Cruz works his way into full mount! #SUB2#
Cruz with some aggressive grappling here. He's looking for submissions here, rather than waiting for the opportunity to counter.
Kurtev takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Kurtev taking shots to the head.
Cruz looking to control but Kurtev is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Kurtev tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Kurtev is in a horrible position here. Cruz smacks him with another shot as he tries to escape the position. #T3#
Kurtev throwing punches from his back but nothing is landing.
Cruz trying to control but Kurtev is having none of it.
Cruz is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
Kurtev is desperately trying to improve his position but Cruz has a good base and remains in mount.
Cruz landing strikes, looking to finish!
Cruz sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment. #SUB2#
Kurtev defends a decent attempt at a guillotine from Cruz.
Kurtev is trying to escape the mount.
Cruz raining down hammerfists from mount.
Ricardo Cruz has got the better of the ground game so far.#T4##SUB2#
Cruz looking for a guillotine from mount but Kurtev is having none of it.
Kurtev swinging wildly from the bottom but he's not landing.
Cruz moves to take his opponent's back. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for the choke from the back. #SUB2#
Kurtev preventing the rear naked choke attempt from Cruz.
The crowd hopeful of a finish here - Cruz's supporters are on their feet, screaming for him to go for the rear naked choke.
Cruz lands with a nice looking elbow that stuns Kurtev.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Cruz trying to control.#SUB2#
Cruz is working hard for the rear naked choke here.
Kurtev looks to control his opponent's hands but he's not mananging it at the moment. #SUB2#
Cruz working for a choke but Kurtev is defending well.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Kurtev's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3##TD#
Kurtev scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Kurtev throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Cruz gets full guard.#SUB2#
Cruz working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Kurtev doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Kurtev manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #SUB2#
Kurtev got a little sloppy there for a moment and Cruz has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Kurtev has managed to get both his arms back between Cruz's legs - danger averted.
Cruz 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#
Kurtev is trying to maintain the position but Cruz is very close to passing his half guard.
Cruz has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz drops an elbow to the side of Kurtev's head.
Kurtev missing with punches from the bottom.
Kurtev trying to control here. #T1#
Cruz seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense. #SUB2#
Kurtev is defending against the submission attempts here by Cruz.
Kurtev is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Cruz scores with a couple of nice shots.#SUB2#
Cruz in half guard on the top. He's looking for a kimura... He's got it locked and he's managed to free his trapped foot. Kurtev tries to escape but it's on too tight and he has to tap! Great BJJ skills there from Cruz!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:49 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: CFC 461: Cobb vs Fire
Date: Feb 19, 2022

#R1#
Reid moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.#CUT#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Reid throws a low kick but it's checked well by Cruz.
Cruz shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Reid defends it nicely.
Jaheim Reid has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Reid 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 Cruz has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Cruz and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in and gets a takedown into Reid's guard.

Reid kicks Cruz off and gets to his feet.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Reid lands a nice looking body shot.
Cruz shoots for a takedown but Reid saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Reid displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Cruz. #TD2#
Cruz looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Reid is trying to control the position but Cruz postures up.
Reid keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully. #T1#
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Reid controls Cruz momentarily but Cruz frees himself.
Cruz slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Reid tries to escape but Cruz is in control.
Cruz is trying to move to mount but Reid reverses beautifully and ends up in Cruz's guard.
Cruz is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#SUB#
Reid thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for subs off his back but Reid has passed one foot through into half guard.
Cruz is trying to get back to full guard.#T2#
Reid thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Reid missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Cruz wants to improve his position but Reid is controlling well.
Reid tries to stand but can't do so whilst Cruz controls his leg.
Cruz is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Reid is trying to control. Cruz wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Cruz is trying to maintain the position but Reid is very close to passing his half guard.#T3#
Reid controlling the action here.
Cruz is trying to get back to full guard.
Cruz trying to control from the bottom.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Reid wants to stand but Cruz has hold of a leg and an arm, so he's trapped for now.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cruz blocking the ground and pound attempt from Reid.
Cruz is pressing down on Reid's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Cruz looking to control.
Reid tries to stand but Cruz is controlling from the bottom.
Reid postures up and lands a big shot to Cruz's brow. #T4#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Reid trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Cruz working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Reid doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Reid manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #SUB2#
Reid avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Cruz looking for a sweep. Not yet Cruz, not yet. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a triangle but Reid pushes his legs off easily. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a triangle here but Reid uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Cruz wants to control but Reid postures up.
Cruz is trying to get back to half guard.
Cruz is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Reid's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jaheim Reid dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz'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.#R2#
A clash of legs there as Cruz blocks the low kick.
Reid throws a hook but Cruz blocks it.
Cruz takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Cruz closes the distance and clinches up with Reid, looking for a takedown. Cruz pushes Reid against the cage but Reid circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Reid thuds his right hand into Cruz's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Cruz avoids a punch combination nicely.
Cruz will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Reid is looking to chop away at Cruz's legs.
Reid misses with a hook. Cruz ducked under it nicely.
Cruz slips under a jab from Reid.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Reid as he jumps to the side.
Reid tried to counter with a leg kick but Cruz avoided it.
Jaheim Reid has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Reid misses the jab.
Cruz darts in looking for a takedown but Reid gets double underhooks and turns Cruz into the cage.
Reid scores with a jab. Cruz acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Reid stuns Cruz with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Jaheim Reid is winning the standup battle so far.
Reid stuffs the takedown.#T1#
Reid pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Reid sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
A little feinted left hand from Reid on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Cruz is breathing heavily.
Reid jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Cruz blocks the body kick.
Reid is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Cruz can do to turn this around?
Reid stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Reid wants it to stay on the feet.
Cruz staying out of range there.
Reid connects with a crisp jab.
Reid moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Nice uppercut lands for Reid. That snapped Cruz's head back.
Cruz will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Reid went nuts there looking for a big combo counter but none of the flurry connected.
Reid throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Cruz.
Reid looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Jaheim Reid is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
A nice leg kick from Reid, right into the meat of the thigh.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Reid sprawls well. Reid wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Reid sizes up Cruz with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle. #T2#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Reid bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Reid pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Cruz with the counter takedown but Reid avoids it easily.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt
and Reid counters with a low kick, right behind Cruz 's knee.
Reid is looking to score with low kicks.
Cruz closes this distance looking for a takedown but Reid circles away.
Reid throws a push kick but Cruz slaps the foot to one side.
Cruz tries to score a power double leg takedown but Reid sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Cruz somewhat.
Cruz seems to be squinting his left eye. Perhaps he got a poke in that previous exchange. Reid shows no mercy and swarms him with a barage of strikes! Cruz is backing up but Reid catches him with a final right hook that drops him! Cruz covers up and the referee steps in to end the fight! Reid Jumps to his feet and flashes his guns to the crowd. Oh yeah, baby! How'd you like them apples?!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:59 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Jaheim Reid!

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Jan 12, 2022

#R1#
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Trucks throws a wild combination but nothing lands. #TD#
Trucks looking for a takedown here - he's got it.#SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Cruz looking to hit a scissor sweep but Trucks is one step ahead there.
Trucks trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Trucks got a little sloppy there for a moment and Cruz has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Trucks has managed to get both his arms back between Cruz's legs - danger averted.#SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Trucks defends well.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz trying to keep a closed guard but Trucks is proving a slippery customer.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Cruz is on top in guard. #REVB##T1#
Cruz working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Trucks's head.
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Trucks swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Trucks keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully. #SUB#
Trucks throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Trucks throwing some rather feeble looking strikes off his back.
Cruz trying to control but Trucks is working from the bottom.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #SUB#
Trucks is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Trucks keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Cruz passes Trucks's right leg, so he's now in half guard. #T2##SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Trucks defends it well.
Trucks trying to control here.
Trucks is trying to stand.
Cruz trying to mount his opponent but Trucks defends it.
Trucks keeping hold of Cruz's head, controlling as best he can.
Cruz trying to control from Trucks's half guard. Trucks has other ideas though and has regained full guard. #SUB#
Trucks had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Cruz defends it easily.
Trucks keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass.
Cruz told us pre-fight that he has been working on his escapes in training. Let's see if he can call on some of his new skills to get back to his feet.
Cruz sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Trucks's guard. #T3#
Cruz stops Trucks from getting back to his feet. #SUB2#
Cruz is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Trucks has managed to free his arm - good work.
Trucks controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.
Cruz trying to control the action but Trucks is working from the bottom.
Trucks on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Cruz is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Trucks is just riding it out for now. Cruz eventually gives up the hold.
Trucks wants to get back to full guard.#T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Trucks is not content to let Cruz control the position.
Cruz has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Cruz fails to take his opponent's back.
Cruz trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Trucks is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Cruz controlling the pace for now.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Trucks tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Cruz raining down hammerfists from mount.#SUB2#
Cruz is going oldschool here, as he tries to force Trucks to tap using a forearm choke. This isn't 1993 though, so Trucks shrugs it off.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Derek Trucks's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Cruz tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Trucks stuffs the takedown.
Cruz fails with the takedown.
Cruz shoots in but no luck this time.
Derek Trucks has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.#TD#
Cruz tries to sprawl but Trucks drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Ricardo Cruz has got the better of the ground game so far.#SUB#
Cruz is defending against the submission attempts here by Trucks. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back.
Trucks is keen to just control but Cruz is a slippery customer.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz moves into full guard. #SUB2#
Cruz throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Trucks won't allow Cruz to sweep him here. #T1##SUB2#
Cruz working for submissions but it's allowed Trucks to get to half guard.
Cruz is looking to improve his position.
Trucks controlling the pace.
Cruz is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Cruz makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Cruz.
Cruz utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Trucks throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Cruz works some decent striking defense from the bottom. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for a guillotine here but Trucks defends easily. #T2#
Trucks missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Trucks trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cruz wants to sweep but no luck.
Trucks trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Trucks trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Trucks postures up.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a triangle but Trucks pushes his legs off easily.
Trucks working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Trucks accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand. #SUB2#
Trucks is trying to tuck his arms in to keep them safe but Cruz has managed to isolate one of them and has got a loose triangle. Trucks is looking to defend but Cruz has done well to lock his legs together - this could be big trouble for Trucks! Cruz pulls down on the head and a little smile comes across his face - he knows he's got it. Yep, Trucks taps out and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:18 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Ricardo Cruz!
Derek Trucks was interviewed post fight and said 'This is not my first rodeo! See you on the matt again!'.

Event: C76: Liu vs. Barbosa
Date: Dec 11, 2021

#R1#
Handicks throws a hook but Cruz avoids it easily.
Handicks catches Cruz with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Horrible takedown attempt by Cruz or perhaps it was just good defense by Handicks, which made it look bad.
Handicks throws a hook but Cruz avoids it easily.
Cruz fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Cruz ducks under a wild hook from Handicks.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt
and Handicks counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Johny Handicks has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Handicks slaps away a takedown attempt from Cruz, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Cruz avoids a lazy jab quite easily.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in and bounces Handicks off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
Handicks wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses.
Handicks looking for a sweep. Not yet Handicks, not yet.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Cruz accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand. #T1##SUB2#
Cruz drops back for a leg but he's not going to get it - he lets go and Handicks dives on top into guard.#REVR#
Cruz wants to sweep here but Handicks controlling him for the moment. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for a guillotine here but Handicks defends easily.
Handicks wants to stand but Cruz is controlling his posture from full guard.
Cruz told us pre-fight that he has been working on his escapes in training. Let's see if he can call on some of his new skills to get back to his feet.#SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a triangle here but Handicks uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Cruz tries to slip a leg under to move to half guard but Handicks presses down on the leg and jumps into full mount! #T2#
Cruz is desperately trying to improve his position but Handicks has a good base and remains in mount.
Cruz bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
Handicks is trying to control the position but Cruz postures up.
Handicks is pulling down on Cruz's head to control his posture.
Cruz 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.
Handicks pulls Cruz in close to prevent any damage.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Handicks wants to sweep but no luck.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Handicks is keeping the position for now. #T3#
Handicks 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#
Cruz wants to get back to full guard.#SUB2#
Cruz actively working from the bottom here.
Cruz tries to regain full guard. Instead though, Handicks has advanced to mount. Uh oh.
Cruz is trying to escape the mount.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Handicks controlling his opponent. #T4#
Cruz is working to get back to half guard.
Cruz wants to hold on but Handicks pushes him away.
Cruz tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Cruz regains half guard.
Cruz gets back to full guard.
Handicks is looking to stand up but Cruz won't let him. #SU#
Handicks gets to his feet and steps away from his opponent.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Johny Handicks dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Cruz avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Cruz fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Handicks throws a shot from downtown. Cruz moves away and avoids it.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Handicks slaps away a takedown attempt from Cruz, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Handicks stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Handicks wants it to stay on the feet.
Johny Handicks has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Handicks defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Cruz.
Ricardo Cruz is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Handicks as he avoids it easily.
A little feinted left hand from Handicks on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Cruz doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Handicks counters with a right hand to the body.
Jab, jab by Handicks - just one landing.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Handicks pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Cruz bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
letting Handicks counter with a right hand.
Handicks lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Cruz dives in and grabs Handicks's left leg, looking for a takedown. Handicks pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.
Cruz is breathing heavily.#T1#
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
and Handicks counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Handicks defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Cruz.
Handicks scores with a jab to the body.
Handicks is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Cruz can do to turn this around?
Handicks looks to land a right hand but Cruz moved out of range.
A jab from Handicks finds it's way through Cruz's defenses.
Cruz uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Handicks.
Cruz ducks under a wild hook from Handicks.
Handicks uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Handicks keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Handicks swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
Cruz needs to keep his hands up - Handicks had a free shot at his head there.
Handicks lands with a right hand. #T2#
Handicks looks to land a right hand but Cruz moved out of range.
Cruz slips a jab from Handicks.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Handicks throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Cruz dives in and grabs Handicks's left leg, looking for a takedown. Handicks pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.
Handicks pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Handicks pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Cruz doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Handicks counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Handicks cracks Cruz with a good jab.
Handicks throws the left hand but Cruz avoids the punch easily.
Nice sprawl there from Handicks as Cruz shoots in.
Handicks throws a lazy right hand but Cruz sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Handicks looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Cruz shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Handicks defends it nicely.
A telegraphed right hand from Handicks misses the target. #T3#
Handicks throws a series of punches but Cruz moves out of range.
Sloppy strikes from Handicks. Those never looked like landing.
Johny Handicks is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Cruz.
A big left from Handicks misses.
Handicks jabs at Cruz's body.
Handicks swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Cruz takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Handicks throws a shot from downtown. Cruz moves away and avoids it.
Handicks misses with a looping right.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Cruz defending well as Handicks loads up on a big left hand.
Cruz fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.#T4#
Handicks stuffs the takedown attempt from Cruz. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Handicks takes a swing at Cruz's ribcage but misses.
A big left from Handicks misses.
Handicks misses with a body shot.
Handicks just misses with a punch to the body.
Handicks works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Cruz with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Handicks to score with a decent uppercut.
Handicks stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Handicks wants it to stay on the feet.
Handicks is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Handicks but Handicks pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Johny Handicks is winning the standup battle so far.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Handicks shows good takedown defense.
Cruz takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Handicks throws a jab but it's blocked by Cruz.
Handicks scores with a sloppy right hand. Cruz should have avoided that one.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Johny Handicks dominated that second round.
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#
Cruz has a takedown stuffed.
Handicks throws a hook but Cruz avoids it easily.
Handicks stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Handicks wants it to stay on the feet.
Cruz blocks a jab.
Cruz ducks under a wild hook from Handicks.
Handicks just misses with a punch to the body.
The fighters circling - Handicks throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Cruz feints the counter takedown.
Cruz dives in for a single leg takedown but Handicks sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Johny Handicks has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Handicks shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Handicks feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Cruzs jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
A jab from Handicks misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz shoots and misses #CL#
and Handicks holds on and brings the fighters into a clinch.
Cruz takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.#BC#
Handicks breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Handicks scores with a hook to the body. Cruz takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Handicks swings and misses with a hook to the body.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Cruz. #T1#
Handicks throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Handicks displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Cruz.
Cruz keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Handicks.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Handicks circles away easily
and Handicks connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Handicks swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Cruz with the counter takedown but Handicks avoids it easily.
Cruz keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Cruz tries to score a power double leg takedown but Handicks sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Cruz somewhat.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Handicks shows good takedown defense.
Cruz shoots for a takedown but Handicks saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
No joy there for Handicks, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Handicks shows good takedown defense.
Johny Handicks is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T2#
Handicks scores with a jab to the body.
Cruz shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Handicks pinned against the cage. Handicks gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Cruz blocks a jab.
Handicks scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Cruz doesn't seem bothered though.
Handicks throws a big shot that misses.
Handicks scores with a nice right hand.
Handicks works over Cruz's head and body with a nice combination.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Handicks lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Cruz circles away quickly and effectively.
Handicks thows a left - swing and a miss!
Cruz changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Handicks tries to avoid it but Cruz manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Handicks to the ground. Handicks escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Handicks lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Cruz shoots in for a double leg but Handicks sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Handicks appears to be looking for a big counter.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.#T3#
Handicks scores with a body shot.
Handicks connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Cruz on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Handicks counters with a right hand to the body.
Cruz slips under a jab.
No luck for Cruz with that takedown attempt.
Handicks slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown. Handicks tries to sprawl out of it but Cruz keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Handicks manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Handicks swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Cruz dives in and grabs Handicks's left leg, looking for a takedown. Handicks pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.#T4#
Handicks with a nice cross.
Cruz doesn't succeed with the takedown
letting Handicks counter with a right hand.
Handicks jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Cruz has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Handicks paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Handicks lands a nice shot to the body.
Cruz slips a jab from Handicks.
Handicks lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Cruz circles away quickly and effectively.#TD2#
Cruz gets a double leg takedown into Handicks's guard.
Cruz won't allow Handicks to sweep him here.
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Handicks swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Handicks pulls Cruz in close to his closed guard and prevents Cruz from doing any damage or advancing position.
Handicks is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.

And that's the end of the fight!
Johny Handicks showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Handicks 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 Percy O'Donnell scores the fight 30:25
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 30:25
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 30:25

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Johny Handicks!
A very excited looking Johny Handicks rambled incoherently for about 5 minutes post fight about how awesome he is. It was kinda funny for a while but then everyone got annoyed.

Event: C60: Alyoshin vs. Kocak
Date: Sep 04, 2021

#R1#
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Yaj leaves Cruz with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Yaj looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Yaj misses with an uppercut. Cruz saw that one coming.
Cruz throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Yaj's waist but Yaj gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Cruz off to one side.
Pat Yaj has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.#TD2#
Cruz scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Yaj is looking to control Cruz's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Yaj avoid being mounted?
Yaj is in a bad position, trying to hold on for dear life but he is really struggling to maintain any sort of control.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Yaj 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.
Yaj is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Yaj is refusing to be controlled, as Cruz sits in half guard.
Cruz is controlling the pace. #T1##SUB2#
Cruz 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.
Cruz trying to control from half guard but Yaj is working away.
Yaj trying to control from the bottom.
Yaj slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Cruz advances position into side control!#T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Yaj is not content to let Cruz control the position.
Yaj tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Yaj is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Yaj wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!#SUB2#
Cruz wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Yaj, who protects the arm well.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Yaj is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T3##SUB2#
Cruz looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Cruz wants to lay and pray for a moment but Yaj keeps working.
Yaj looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.
Yaj tries to escape but Cruz is in control.
Cruz in side control, throwing shots but Yaj defends.
Yaj wants to control but Cruz postures up.
Yaj tries to bench press Cruz off him but Cruz keeps the position.
Yaj is not content to let Cruz control the position.
Yaj is trying to improve his position.#T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Yaj is not content to let Cruz control the position.
Cruz misses with the ground and pound.
Cruz working the ground and pound.
Yaj can't do much from the bottom here.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Cruz is trying to get an arm triangle but Yaj is defending well. #SUB2#
Cruz swings around for an armbar but Yaj sees it coming a mile off and turns beautifully into Cruz's guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Yaj is looking to stand up but Cruz won't let him.
Yaj won't allow Cruz to sweep him here.
Cruz looking to control.
Yaj tries to stand but Cruz is controlling from the bottom.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Ricardo Cruz will probably get the nod.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Yaj.
Cruz shoots in and drives through. Yaj sprawls well.
A nice inside leg kick there by Yaj. That's going to slow Cruz down.
Yaj tried to score with a low kick but Cruz checks it.
Ricardo Cruz is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Cruz takes a head kick and keeps coming. #CUT#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Yaj.
It appears Yaj was looking to counter with a kick there.
Pat Yaj has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Cruz fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Yaj.
Yaj paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.#T1#
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Yaj counters with a solid body kick.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
and Yaj counters with a nice uppercut. #TD2#
Cruz shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Yaj manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
Cruz is breathing heavily.
Yaj is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Cruz is controlling him.
Yaj is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Cruz can do to turn this around?
Yaj keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass.
Yaj looking to hit a scissor sweep but Cruz is one step ahead there.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #T2#
Yaj avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Yaj looking to control.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Yaj keeps moving.
Cruz preventing the sweep.
Yaj wants to stand up but Cruz is controlling him.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Cruz trying to control but Yaj is working from the bottom. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Yaj.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Yaj counters with a two punch combo.
Pat Yaj is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cruz shoots in but no luck this time.
Yaj lands a nice looking body shot. #T3#
Cruz keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Yaj.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt #KD#
and Yaj counters with a head kick that drops Cruz to the mat! Cruz scrambles across the canvas and gets back to his feet, still wobbly!#ROC#Cruz is rocked!
Cruz throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Yaj's waist but Yaj gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Cruz off to one side.
Cruz defending well as Yaj loads up on a big left hand.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Yaj.
Yaj feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Cruzs jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Cruz is still on wobbly legs! Can Yaj finish him?#CUT#That has opened up Ricardo Cruz's cut even more.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Yaj as he avoids it easily.
Cruz seems to have recovered his senses.
Cruz checks a low kick from Yaj.
Yaj misses with an attempted mid kick.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.#T4#
Yaj connects with an inside leg kick.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Cruz.
Yaj throws a body kick that misses.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Cruz dives in for a single leg takedown but Yaj sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Cruz looks for a takedown but Yaj sprawls well.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt - Yaj sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Yaj jabs Cruz to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Yaj but Yaj pushes him off and we're back to square one.
A solid body kick from Yaj.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Pat Yaj dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz'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#
Cruz shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Yaj defends it nicely.
Yaj defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Cruz.
An attempted straight right counter from Yaj misses the target.
Cruz takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Yaj throws a quick inside leg kick.
Yaj stuffs the takedown.
Yaj throws a quick counter kick to the body but Cruz avoids it.
Pat Yaj has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Cruz shoots for a double leg takedown but Yaj sprawls well. He's pushed Cruz's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Cruz moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Yaj connects with a high kick.
Yaj stuffs the takedown.
Ricardo Cruz 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.
Yaj moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Pat Yaj is winning the standup battle so far.
Yaj scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Yaj pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Yaj lands a really nice looking cross but Cruz seems unphased.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Cruz looks for a takedown but Yaj sprawls well.
Yaj looked to counter with a high kick but didn't commit.
Cruz takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.#T1#
Cruz blocks a head kick by Yaj.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown. Yaj tries to sprawl out of it but Cruz keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Yaj manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Yaj connects with a leg kick.
Yaj throws a nasty head kick that just misses. He throws another kick to the head of his opponent and almost takes it off! Cruz crumples to the floor and the fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:38 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Head Kick). Pat Yaj!
During a confident post fight interview, Pat Yaj thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

Event: C53: Muller vs. Francis
Date: Jul 31, 2021

#R1#
Spartan misses with a double jab.
We've been hearing reports that Cruz has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.#TD#
Cruz throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Spartan tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Cruz is in Spartan's guard.
Spartan keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Spartan wants to sweep here but Cruz controlling him for the moment.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Spartan is keeping the position for now.
Spartan trying to keep a closed guard but Cruz is proving a slippery customer.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cruz trying to control but Spartan is working from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Spartan is keeping the position.
Cruz trying to control but Spartan is working from the bottom.
Spartan not looking particularly offensive just at the moment. #T1#
Spartan pulls Cruz in close to prevent any damage.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Cruz has a takedown stuffed.
Spartan slaps away a takedown attempt from Cruz, before circling back to the center of the mat.#TD#
Cruz dives in and scores a takedown into Spartan's guard.
Spartan controls Cruz momentarily but Cruz frees himself.
Cruz tries to free his leg and advance position but Spartan is retaining full guard.
Spartan working a defensive guard here.
Cruz with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.#T2##SUB#
Cruz has gone for a leg lock! Spartan slips out almost immediately though and dives into Cruz's guard.#REVB#
Cruz wants to sweep here but Spartan controlling him for the moment.
Cruz keeping full guard, as Spartan tries to pass. #SUB#
Cruz looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Spartan trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB#
Cruz is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Cruz looking to control.
Cruz wants to sweep but no luck.
Cruz is trying to hold Spartan in close to prevent damage but Spartan has managed to pass into half guard. #T3#
Spartan seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Cruz does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Cruz gets back to full guard.
Spartan is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
It looks like Spartan might be adopting somewhat of a lay and pray gameplan here, which I'm sure won't go down too well with the paying fans in attendance... Or the ring announcers come to think of it.
We've been informed that Spartan has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.
Cruz bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Spartan's guard. #REVR#
Cruz stopping the sweep attempt from Spartan.
Spartan has his hands on Cruz's head, controlling the position.
Cruz throws an elbow that misses. Spartan uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Cruz's guard. Nice move by Spartan!#REVB##SUB#
Cruz looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Spartan passes into side control.
Cruz is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Spartan off and has taken his back!#T4#
You can see the frustration on Spartan's face… He knows he is in trouble unless he improves his position sooner rather than later.
Spartan just trying to survive but Cruz is wriggling into a better position, looking to finish. #SUB#
Cruz is working really hard to secure the rear naked choke. Spartan defends successfully for a significant amount of time. Both fighters are looking very determined.
Spartan tries to escape but Cruz has the hooks in and won't let him break free.
Cruz gets his hands free as Spartan looks to control.
I really don't envy Spartan right now.
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!#SUB#
Cruz looking for the choke from the back.
Cruz lands an elbow to the side of the head.
Cruz is looking to control Spartan but Spartan is wriggling around and keeping busy. #SUB#
Cruz is working really hard to secure the rear naked choke. Spartan defends successfully for a significant amount of time. Both fighters are looking very determined.
Cruz not allowing Spartan to control his hands.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2##TD#
Cruz darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.#ES2#
Spartan kicks off Cruz and gets to his feet.
Spartan scores with a shot to the body.
Spartan connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.#TD#
Cruz shoots in and bounces Spartan off the cage to secure the 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!
Cruz makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Spartan wants to sweep here but Cruz controlling him for the moment.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Spartan is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Spartan controlling the position.#T1#
Spartan wants to stand but Cruz is controlling the position.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Spartan keeps moving.
Spartan looking for a sweep. Not yet Spartan, not yet.
Cruz showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Cruz won't allow Spartan to get back to his feet.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Spartan is keeping the position.
Spartan wants to stand and escape but Cruz is having none of it.
Cruz trying to control but Spartan is working from the bottom.
Spartan tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Cruz is pushing down on Spartan's leg trying to pass to half guard. Spartan is fighting to maintain full guard but Cruz has managed to sneak the leg through.#SUB#
Cruz is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Spartan is just riding it out for now. Cruz eventually gives up the hold.
Cruz is looking to advance position but Spartan won't allow it. #T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Spartan wants to control but Cruz is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Spartan might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Cruz haven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.
Spartan is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Cruz's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Cruz's back!
Cruz staying busy and making it hard for Spartan to control.
Spartan is riding his opponent, not letting Cruz buck him off.
Cruz turns into Spartan and is now in his guard.
Cruz tries to free his leg and advance position but Spartan is retaining full guard.
Spartan managing to control the position.
Spartan keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass. #T3#
Cruz trying to control but Spartan is working from the bottom.
Spartan keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass.
Spartan working a defensive guard here.
Cruz won't allow Spartan to sweep him here.
Spartan pulls Cruz in close to his closed guard and prevents Cruz from doing any damage or advancing position.
Cruz working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Spartan swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Spartan wants to get back to his feet but Cruz is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Spartan keeps moving. #T4#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Spartan wants to sweep but no luck.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Spartan is keeping the position.
Spartan seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Spartan misses with an uppercut.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown but Spartan manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Cruz's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.#TD2#
Spartan looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Spartan from controlling successfully.
Spartan is looking to stand up but Cruz won't let him.
Spartan must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Spartan pushing down on Cruz's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work. #SUB#
Cruz looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Furio Spartan will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back 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##TD2#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Cruz enables Spartan to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Cruz manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Spartan tries to stand but Cruz is controlling from the bottom.
Cruz 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.#SUB#
Cruz had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Spartan defends it easily.
Spartan 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.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Cruz is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Cruz working a defensive guard but Spartan manages to pass into side control anyway. #T1#
Spartan controls the position.#SU2#
Spartan decides to stand back up.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Spartan is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Cruz with a body shot.
Spartan stuffs the takedown attempt from Cruz. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Cruz walks into a jab.
Cruz will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Spartan tries to clinch up.
Spartan lands with a two punch combination before moving back out of range.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown. Spartan tries to sprawl out of it but Cruz keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Spartan manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Spartan throws a counter combo.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Cruz shoots for a double leg takedown but Spartan sprawls well. He's pushed Cruz's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily. #T2#
Spartan lands with a nice body punch.
No luck for Cruz with that takedown attempt.
Cruz looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Cruz closes this distance looking for a takedown but Spartan circles away.
Spartan raises up his leg as if looking to counter with a high kick.#CL2#
Spartan drives through and clinches with Cruz against the cage.
This has been an exciting period of action!#TD#
Cruz has clasped his hands together around Spartan's back... aaand, he's got a takedown into side control. Nicely done.
Spartan struggling a bit here.
Cruz wants to control but Spartan is keeping him busy.
Spartan is trying to get back to half guard.
Spartan is not content to let Cruz control the position. #T3#
Spartan tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Cruz connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Spartan some visible discomfort.
Spartan can't do much from the bottom here.
Cruz cracks Spartan with an elbow. That is naaassty.
Cruz moves into full mount!
Ricardo Cruz overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Spartan is trying desperately to improve position.#SUB#
Cruz is working to isolate an arm here. It's a telegraphed submission attempt but he's gone for it anyway - and he's got it! Cruz extends the arm and Spartan is forced to tap!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: C38: Yaj vs. Marinov
Date: May 22, 2021

#R1##TD2#
Cruz shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Cruz showed some decent athleticism there.
Cruz perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there. #SUB2#
Cruz wants to work for an arm triangle but Pereira is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Cruz stalling away here and it's allowed Pereira to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
Cruz throws an elbow that misses. Pereira uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Cruz's guard. Nice move by Pereira!#REVR#
Pereira content to stall in guard here.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Pereira from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Pereira sitting in guard here, content to control. #SUB2#
Cruz working for a triangle but Pereira defends it easily. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Pereira defends well.#T1##SUB2#
Cruz has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Pereira can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar. #SUB2#
Cruz working for a triangle but Pereira defends it easily. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Pereira defends well.
Pereira controls from within his opponent's guard.
Pereira pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Cruz is keeping the position for now. #T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.#SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a triangle here but Pereira uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Cruz being controlled for a moment.
Pereira tries to advance to mount but can't.
Cruz is looking for a sweep.
Cruz manages to work his way to half guard, despite Pereira's best efforts.
Cruz is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #SUB2#
Cruz has guillotine here! It looks pretty tight! Could this be all over! No, Pereira escapes and passes into side control at the same time. Nice work there by Pereira!
Cruz stops Pereira from passing to mount. #T3#
Cruz tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Cruz keeps trying to improve his position.
Cruz trying to remain calm as Pereira controls from the top position.
Pereira trying to control the position but Cruz is working away.
Cruz manages to work his way to half guard, despite Pereira's best efforts.
Cruz makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Cruz.
Pereira looking to control the position here, rather than advance. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Pereira defends well.
Cruz wants to sweep but no luck. #T4#
Pereira trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #SUB2#
Cruz working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Pereira doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Pereira manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Pereira from controlling successfully. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Pereira defends well.#SUB2#
Cruz working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Pereira doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Pereira manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #SUB2#
Cruz working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Pereira doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Pereira manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Cruz is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#SUB2#
Cruz working for a triangle but Pereira defends it easily.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Ricardo Cruz 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#
Cruz gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Cruz fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Pereira wants to land a leg kick but Cruz is out of range.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Pereira sprawls well. Pereira wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Cruz darts in looking for a takedown but Pereira gets double underhooks and turns Cruz into the cage.
Michel Pereira has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Pereira shows good takedown defense.
Cruz shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Pereira defends it nicely.
Pereira lifts his leg as if looking to counter with a high kick.
Pereira slaps away a takedown attempt from Cruz, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Pereira was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.#T1#
Pereira turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
No luck for Cruz with that takedown attempt.
It looked like Pereira was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
Cruz takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Pereira scores with a one two! Cruz had his feet all tangled up there and couldn't avoid the strikes.
Michel Pereira is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown but Pereira manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Cruz's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Pereira fails to land with a series of punches.
Pereira scores with a jab to the head.
Cruz looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Cruz is breathing heavily.
Pereira displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Cruz.
Pereira looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Pereira is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Cruz can do to turn this around?
Cruz doesn't succeed with the takedown
letting Pereira counter with a right hand.
Michel Pereira is winning the standup battle so far.#T2#
Pereira defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Cruz.
Pereira swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Pereira scores with a sloppy right hand. Cruz should have avoided that one. #CUT#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.#CL#
Pereira gets a clinch.
Pereira throws a knee to the head but misses.
Pereira lands a body punch in the clinch.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Pereira.
Cruz looking for a takedown.
Pereira throws a knee to the head but misses.
Pereira lands a knee to the head there! That was nasty!
Pereira lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Pereira lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
I was talking to Pereira's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Pereira tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage. #T3#
Pereira tries a knee to the head but he's missed.
Pereira prevents a takedown attempt there.
Pereira with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Pereira misses with a knee to the head.
A knee to the head by Pereira.
Pereira throws a knee to the head but misses.
Pereira prevents a takedown attempt there.
Pereira throws a knee to the head but misses.
Cruz is looking to take this one to the mat.
Pereira with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Cruz has Pereira pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Pereira manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Pereira using the Thai plumb to throw knees but Cruz has his back arched nicely, preventing the strike. #T4#
Pereira misses with some punches.
Pereira working aggressively here.
Pereira scores with a knee to the head.
Michel Pereira has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Pereira tries a knee to the head but he's missed.
Pereira tries a knee to the head but Cruz blocks it.
Cruz tries for a takedown. No joy. #TD2#
Cruz gets a nice trip takedown into half guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Pereira wants to control but Cruz is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Pereira is looking to improve his position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Cruz is keen to just control but Pereira is a slippery customer.
Pereira gets back to full guard.
Cruz content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michel Pereira dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
Cruz fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown. Pereira tries to sprawl out of it but Cruz keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Pereira manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Pereira lunges at Cruz with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Cruz's hand.
Cruz fails with the takedown.
Pereira appears to be looking for a big counter.
Michel Pereira has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Pereira counters with a nice low kick that buckles Cruz's knee momentarily.
Cruz takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Pereira keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Pereira will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air. #T1#
Cruz chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Pereira can pounce on him.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Pereira as he jumps to the side.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Pereira counters with a straight right hand.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt #KD#
and Pereira counters with a head kick that drops Cruz to the mat! Cruz scrambles across the canvas and gets back to his feet, still wobbly!#ROC#Cruz is rocked!
Pereira batters Cruz with a massive right followed by a huge left! Cruz is out on his feet looking like a zombie as Pereira lands a final crushing right hand to drop Cruz to the mat with a gruesome thud! Pereira is running around like a mad man after that fight and for good reason!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:39 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Michel Pereira!
An out of breath Michel Pereira thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

Event: C24: Gee vs. Overflow
Date: Mar 20, 2021

#R1#
McCockiner misses with a hook.
Cruz shoots for a double leg takedown but McCockiner sprawls well. He's pushed Cruz's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
McCockiner misses with an uppercut.
McCockiner connects with a jab.#CUT#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
McCockiner throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
McCockiner lands a jab to Cruz's midsection.
Cruz dives in and grabs McCockiner's left leg, looking for a takedown. McCockiner pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.
Cruz has done a lot of speed work in the buildup to this fight.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown. McCockiner tries to sprawl out of it but Cruz keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. McCockiner manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Barry McCockiner has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
McCockiner loads up on a big right hand but Cruz slips the punch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
McCockiner connects with a nice looking jab.
Cruz shoots for a double leg takedown but McCockiner sprawls well. He's pushed Cruz's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
McCockiner appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
Barry McCockiner seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
McCockiner misses with an uppercut. Cruz saw that one coming.
Cruz tries for a takedown but McCockiner sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
McCockiner swings and misses with a 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!
Cruz moves away from the strike by McCockiner. #T1#
Cruz ducks under a wild hook from McCockiner.
McCockiner stuffs the takedown.
McCockiner pulls out of a head kick attempt.
McCockiner keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
McCockiner has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Undisputed in the buildup to the fight.
Cruz avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Nice defenses there by Cruz.
McCockiner jabbing away but nothing is landing.
McCockiner with a hook.
Cruz ducks under a wild hook from McCockiner.#TD2#
Cruz fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. McCockiner sprawls well initially but Cruz persists and gets the takedown into half guard. #SUB2#
Cruz is working for a submission of some sort.
Cruz drops an elbow to the side of McCockiner's head. #T2#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
McCockiner is trying to get back to full guard.
Cruz is trying to control. McCockiner wants to improve his position but can't escape this time. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a kimura here.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but McCockiner is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
McCockiner wants to get back to his feet.
McCockiner wants to improve his position but Cruz is controlling well.
Cruz wants to take a breather but McCockiner is having none of it.
Cruz throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage. #T3#
McCockiner is looking for a sweep. Cruz is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#SUB2#
Cruz is working for a kimura but McCockiner is defending it quite comfortably. #SUB2#
Cruz seems to be trying to get a kimura but instead McCockiner has recovered full guard.
McCockiner wants to sweep but no luck.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
McCockiner is trying to keep Cruz in close.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
McCockiner keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Cruz throwing strikes from guard but McCockiner blocks nicely.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but McCockiner is keeping the position.#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.
Cruz wants to control from the top but McCockiner keeps moving.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.
Cruz works over McCockiner with some ground and pound from guard.
Cruz tries to free his leg and advance position but McCockiner is retaining full guard.
McCockiner looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but McCockiner is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cruz 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.

Barry McCockiner dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
McCockiner throws a head kick that misses.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt - McCockiner sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
An attempted straight right counter from McCockiner misses the target.
Cruz fails with the takedown
and McCockiner counters with a nice uppercut.
McCockiner lands a lovely overhand right.
Ricardo Cruz is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Cruz blocks a head kick by McCockiner. #TD2#
Cruz feints and as McCockiner raises his hands in defense, Cruz changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
McCockiner is trying to control the position but Cruz postures up.
McCockiner wants to get back to his feet but Cruz is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz passes easily into side control. Nice work.
McCockiner is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Cruz can do to turn this around?
McCockiner is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Cruz off and has taken his back!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
McCockiner is not going to allow Cruz to sit and survive in this position. #T1#
Cruz wants to escape the position.
McCockiner trying to secure his dominant position for a moment - making sure Cruz doesn't escape.
McCockiner is trying to stick to Cruz's back but Cruz is turning into McCockiner. He's managed to reverse the position - now he's in McCockiner's guard. Polite applause from the crowd in appreciation of some nice Jiu Jitsu by Cruz.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but McCockiner is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cruz with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Cruz postures up.
Cruz postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Cruz trying to control but McCockiner is working from the bottom.
McCockiner avoiding any damage from the ground and pound. #T2#
McCockiner managing to control the position.
Cruz stays in close to McCockiner's body and controls the position.
Cruz trying to control but McCockiner is working from the bottom.
Cruz working some strikes from top position.
McCockiner keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
McCockiner looking for a sweep. Not yet McCockiner, not yet.
Cruz trying to control but McCockiner is working from the bottom.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. McCockiner is keeping the position for now.
Cruz wants to control from the top but McCockiner keeps moving. #T3#
Cruz connects with a couple of short punches.
Cruz passes McCockiner's right leg, so he's now in half guard. #SUB2#
Cruz is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
McCockiner tries to get to full guard but Cruz has control of the leg. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and McCockiner defends it well. #SUB2#
Cruz seems to be working for a kimura but McCockiner defends the submission attempt.
Cruz wants to take a breather but McCockiner is having none of it.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but McCockiner is defending well. #T4##SUB2#
Cruz is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so McCockiner is just riding it out for now. Cruz eventually gives up the hold.
McCockiner wants to control but Cruz is keeping busy and won't allow it. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a kimura here.
McCockiner slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz trying to control but McCockiner is working from the bottom.
Cruz passes McCockiner's left leg - he's now in half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Ricardo Cruz will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz'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!#R3#
McCockiner throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
McCockiner missing with a left hand there. Cruz was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with McCockiner but McCockiner pushes him off and we're back to square one.
McCockiner looks to score with a jab to the body but Cruz is just out of range.
McCockiner throws out a loose jab but Cruz uses good head movement to avoid it.
McCockiner is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Cruz blocks a jab.
McCockiner tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
McCockiner lands a nice looking body shot.
Cruz looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Barry McCockiner is winning the standup battle so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz goes for a double leg but McCockiner avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as McCockiner continues to drive forward.
McCockiner misses with an uppercut. Cruz saw that one coming.
Cruz looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
McCockiner swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Barry McCockiner has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Cruz tries for a takedown but McCockiner circles away easily
and McCockiner counters with a left to the body.
Cruz takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.#T1#
Cruz fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
McCockiner throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
McCockiner tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Cruz staying out of range there.
Cruz shoots for a double leg takedown but McCockiner sprawls well. He's pushed Cruz's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
McCockiner is looking to counter punch.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Cruz tries for a takedown but McCockiner circles away easily
and McCockiner counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
A telegraphed right hand from McCockiner misses the target. #KD#
McCockiner lands a big head kick that sends Cruz tumbling to the mat! McCockiner takes a step backwards and waves Cruz back to his feet - he wants the finish!#ROC#Cruz is rocked!#CUT#That has opened up Ricardo Cruz's cut even more.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
McCockiner lands hard precision jab right on the jaw that stiffens Cruz up and sends him tumbling to the mat! The ref grabs McCockiner from behind before he can pounce. Some folks in the crowd didn't like that stoppage, but I saw Cruz's eyes roll way back in his head, he was done.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:56 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Barry McCockiner!
Our winner, Barry McCockiner, 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: CFN10: Carvalho vs. Conway
Date: Jan 24, 2021

#R1#
Vendarra stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Vendarra wants it to stay on the feet.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt
and Vendarra cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#CUT2#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Vendarra looks to throw the jab but Cruz is out of range.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown. Vendarra tries to sprawl out of it but Cruz keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Vendarra manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
It seemed like Vendarra was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Vendarra circles away easily
and Vendarra counters with a lovely straight right hand!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown but Vendarra manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Cruz's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Vendarra counters with a slapping leg kick.
Cruz dives in and grabs Vendarra's left leg, looking for a takedown. Vendarra pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Vendarra sprawls well. Vendarra wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.#T1#
Vendarra misses with a left hand #TD#
so Cruz counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Vendarra wants to stand up but Cruz is controlling him.
Cruz forces his way into half guard.
Cruz wants to control but Vendarra is keeping him busy.
Vendarra is trying to stand back up but Cruz is controlling him
We've been hearing that Cruz has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Cruz tries to pass the half guard into mount. Vendarra knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Cruz wants to lay and pray for a moment but Vendarra keeps working.
Vendarra looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Cruz working over Vendarra with some ground and pound. Vendarra looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#T2#
Vendarra holds on for dear life, maintaining half guard for now. #SUB#
Vendarra is defending against the submission attempts here by Cruz.
Cruz stalling.
Vendarra is trying to get back to full guard.
Cruz is stalling here. Vendarra is in no mood to hang around though. He's locked up a kimura from the bottom! Cruz seems to be keeping calm but he's forced to roll out of the hold and Vendarra has ended up in side control on the top. Nice work.
Cruz manages to work his way to half guard, despite Vendarra's best efforts.
Vendarra tries to pass to full mount but Cruz defends it.
Vendarra is a painfully thin specimen of a man. You do wonder whether a good body kick would snap him clean in two.
Cruz trying to control here.
Vendarra wants to pass to mount but Cruz is defending the position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T3#
Vendarra is looking to take a break and control but Cruz is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #SUB#
Cruz actively working from the bottom here.
Cruz is looking to improve his position.
Vendarra wants to stand up but Cruz has a hold of him and won't allow it.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Vendarra is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.#SUB#
Cruz looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Cruz is not content to let Vendarra control the position.
Cruz tries to roll over but Vendarra keeps him under control.
Vendarra tries to stand but can't do so whilst Cruz controls his leg. #T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Cruz wants to get back to full guard.
Vendarra not doing much here.
Vendarra is trying to get back to his feet now but his leg is trapped. #SUB#
Cruz actively working from the bottom here.
Cruz is staying active underneath Vendarra, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Cruz moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Cruz bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Vendarra's guard. #REVR#
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Vendarra wants to stand and escape but Cruz is having none of it.
Vendarra looking for a sweep. Not yet Vendarra, not yet.
Cruz pushes down on Vendarra's leg and manages to get into half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Bob Vendarra will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz'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.#R2#
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Cruz looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Vendarra is fending him off so far but Cruz persists. Nope, Vendarra circles away and we're back to standing.
Cruz fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Vendarra avoids it really well and circles away.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Vendarra swivels and escapes.
Ricardo Cruz 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.
Vendarra connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Cruz fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Cruz fails with the takedown.#T1#
Vendarra wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Vendarra thows a leg kick but Cruz checks it #TD#
and Cruz counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Cruz.
Vendarra has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Cruz stops Vendarra from standing up.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz trying to control but Vendarra is working from the bottom.
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Vendarra swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Vendarra looking for a sweep. Not yet Vendarra, not yet. #SUB#
Cruz has gone for a leg lock! Vendarra slips out almost immediately though and dives into Cruz's guard.#REVB##T2##SUB#
Vendarra avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Cruz is trying to keep Vendarra in close.
Vendarra is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions. #SUB#
Cruz escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Vendarra gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Vendarra wanted to stand there but Cruz had control of the position.
Vendarra must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Vendarra wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving.
Vendarra slips nicely into half guard.
Cruz trying to control from the bottom. #T3#
Vendarra wants to free his trapped foot but Cruz is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Cruz trying to control from the bottom.
Cruz is pressing down on Vendarra's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Vendarra is looking to stand up but Cruz won't let him. #SUB#
Vendarra got a little sloppy there for a moment and Cruz has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Vendarra has managed to get both his arms back between Cruz's legs - danger averted.#SUB#
Cruz throws his legs up looking for a submission but Vendarra uses it to pass to side control.
Cruz tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Vendarra trying to control the position but Cruz is working away.
Vendarra controls the position.
Cruz is looking to regain half guard here but Vendarra keeps moving and retains side control.
Vendarra trying to control the position but Cruz is working away.
Cruz tries to bench press Vendarra off him but Vendarra keeps the position. #T4#
Vendarra moving around in side mount but really he's just happy to control for now.
Vendarra tries to get to his feet but he's trapped momentarily.
Cruz can't do much from the bottom here.
Cruz manages to get back to half guard.
Vendarra uses his free foot to push down on Cruz's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Cruz.
Vendarra mounts Cruz! Really nice guard pass there!
Vendarra takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Vendarra pushing the pace here, looking to move to his opponents back and work for a finish.
Cruz is desperately trying to improve his position but Vendarra has a good base and remains in mount.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Bob Vendarra showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!#R3#
Cruz tries for a takedown but Vendarra circles away easily
and Vendarra counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Vendarra counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Vendarra lands with a straight right. Cruz didn't see that one coming.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Vendarra counters with a nice uppercut. #ROC2#Cruz is rocked!#CUT2#Ricardo Cruz's cut is getting worse.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
A head kick misses from Vendarra.
Oh Cruz is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Vendarra lands a kick to the ribs of his opponent. Nice work there - in and out in a flash.
Cruz seems to have got his legs back now.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Vendarra throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Vendarra stuffs the takedown attempt from Cruz. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.#T1#
No luck with that takedown attempt from Cruz.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Vendarra counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
enabling Vendarra to counter with a crisp jab.
Nice body kick there by Vendarra.
Cruz takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie.
Cruz moves out of range as Vendarra throws a body kick.
Vendarra has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.#KD2#
Vendarra cracks Cruz with a big right hand that sends him to the floor! Cruz looks wobbly but he's sprung back up to his feet straight away… can Vendarra finish him?
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Vendarra fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Cruz manages to avoid it.
Cruz throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Vendarra's waist but Vendarra gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Cruz off to one side. #T2#
Vendarra drops Cruz with a huge uppercut! Cruz drops to the floor like a sack of potatoes. Vendarra is raining down punches and the ref stops the fight! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:09 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Bob Vendarra!
Our winner, Bob Vendarra, 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: Combate 9: Menshikov vs. Jesus
Date: Dec 12, 2020

#R1#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Pichushkin but Pichushkin pushes him off and we're back to square one.#CL2#
Pichushkin instigates a clinch.
I was talking to Cruz's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Cruz goes for a takedown attempt but Pichushkin pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance. #CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Cruz blocks an uppercut.
Pichushkin has a couple of punches blocked by Cruz.
Cruz is looking to take this one to the mat.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. 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.
Cruz blocking some punches.
Cruz is looking for a takedown.
Pichushkin goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Pichushkin cracks Cruz with a nice body shot.
Pichushkin throws a head punch that misses.
Cruz is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Pichushkin misses with a punch on the inside. #T1#
Pichushkin swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Good body shot from Pichushkin.
Pichushkin gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Cruz.
Pichushkin stops a takedown attempt from Cruz.
Cruz drops down looking for an ankle pick but Pichushkin pulls his leg out and moves away. #CL2#
Pichushkin gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Cruz is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Pichushkin pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Cruz wants a takedown.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Pichushkin manages to get underhooks.
Cruz blocks a body shot from Pichushkin.
Cruz tries for a takedown. No joy.
Pichushkin pushes Cruz back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
A short body shot lands from Pichushkin as the two fighters clinch.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Pichushkin. #T2#
Cruz goes for a takedown in the clinch but Pichushkin prevents it.
Cruz changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Pichushkin fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Pichushkin connects with a right hand. Cruz shakes it off.#CUT2#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
That's a knee to de groin and it's over and out! Cruz crumples to the ground after an illegal strike from Pichushkin - the referee stops the clock and Cruz gets 5 minutes to recover from that one. "I'm sorry" says Pichushkin. Cruz manages to get back to his feet and the fight resumes.
Cruz is breathing heavily.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Cruz. #CL2#
Pichushkin closes the distance and clinches.
Pichushkin lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Pichushkin throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Cruzs head.
Pichushkin lands with a light punch inside.
Pichushkin can't find room to land a body shot as Cruz controls the action.
Pichushkin throws a head punch that misses.
Pichushkin misses with a body punch.
Pichushkin lands an uppercut.#T3#
Pichushkin fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Pichushkin can't find room to land a body shot as Cruz controls the action.
Pichushkin misses with a hook to the ribs.
Cruz is looking for a takedown.
Pichushkin lands a left hand.
Cruz is looking for a takedown.
Cruz fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Cruz is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Pichushkin pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Pichushkin misses with some punches.
Pichushkin tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Pichushkin cracks Cruz with a nice body shot.
Pichushkin lands a left hand.
Cruz tries to score a body lock takedown but Pichushkin shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Pichushkin scores with a shoulder strike.
Cruz is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Pichushkin gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Cruz blocks an uppercut.
Pichushkin throws a punch but it's blocked by Cruz.
Cruz tries to score a body lock takedown but Pichushkin shows good agility there to stay on his feet.#T4#
Pichushkin throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Cruzs head.
Cruz is trying to pull guard but Pichushkin has him pressed against the cage.
Cruz blocks an uppercut.
Cruz is trying to drag Pichushkin to the mat but Pichushkin just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Cruz drops down looking for an ankle pick but Pichushkin pulls his leg out and moves away. #KD2#
Pichushkin throws a left that rocks Cruz and follows with a right that sends him tumbling to the canvas! Pichushkin dives into side control, looking to finish! Can Cruz regain composure! #ROC2#Cruz is rocked!
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!#SUB2#
Pichushkin is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Cruz knows the correct defense though, so he's OK. #SUB2#
Pichushkin tries for a kimura but Cruz is defending well.
Cruz is looking for a sweep.
Cruz wants to control but Pichushkin postures up.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Alexander Pichushkin dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz'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##CL2#
Pichushkin moves into the clinch successfully.
Pichushkin has a couple of punches blocked by Cruz.
Pichushkin is pressed up against the cage. Cruz has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Pichushkin down to the mat. Pichushkin avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance. #CL2#
Pichushkin clinches with his opponent.
Cruz prevents a body shot from Pichushkin.
Pichushkin gets through Cruz's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Pichushkin goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
A head punch on the inside from Pichushkin fails to land.
Pichushkin has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Pichushkin misses with a punch on the inside.
Pichushkin lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Alexander Pichushkin seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
Cruz has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Pichushkin after a bit of a struggle.
Pichushkin tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Cruz's elbow.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Pichushkin is defending well.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Pichushkin is defending well.
Cruz is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Pichushkin pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Pichushkin misses with some punches.
Cruz tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Pichushkin smiles and moves away. #CL2#
Pichushkin has Cruz up against the cage in a clinch. #T1#
Good body shot from Pichushkin.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Cruz is trying to drag Pichushkin to the mat but Pichushkin just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Pichushkin tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Cruz blocks a body shot from Pichushkin.
Pichushkin struggles to land a body shot inside as Cruz controls his hands.
Cruz blocks a body shot from Pichushkin.
A short uppercut from Pichushkin.
Cruz wants to take the fight to the mat but Pichushkin manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
Pichushkin swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Pichushkin tries to work over Cruz's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Cruz is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Pichushkin pulls him back up using the underhooks. #TD#
Cruz has managed to pull guard. Let's see whether he can work an aggressive guard. It will also be interesting to see what tactics Pichushkin uses from the top position. #SU2#
Pichushkin stands up and waves to Cruz to follow him. #T2##CL2#
Pichushkin pushes Cruz up against the cage in a clinch.
Pichushkin lands an uppercut.
Pichushkin gets through Cruz's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Pichushkin lands a body punch.
Cruz tries to score a body lock takedown but Pichushkin shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Pichushkin scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Cruz.
Pichushkin lands a shoulder strike.
A short right from Pichushkin on the inside.
A short right from Pichushkin on the inside. #TD#
Cruz decides to pull guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SU2#
Cruz is working an open guard so Pichushkin takes the opportunity to get back to his feet.#CL2#
Pichushkin takes the fight into the clinch.
Pichushkin misses with a body punch.
Cruz fails to pull guard. #T3#
Cruz is looking to take this one to the mat.
Pichushkin misses with a shot to the kidneys.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Cruz.
Pichushkin misses with a short punch on the inside.
Pichushkin fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Pichushkin tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Cruz's elbow.
Pichushkin has a couple of punches blocked by Cruz.
Pichushkin misses with some punches.
Pichushkin lands with a left to the head.
Pichushkin throws a punch but it's blocked by Cruz. #TD#
Cruz wants the takedown. Pichushkin is fighting it off but Cruz persists and manages to bring the fight to the ground, ending up in Pichushkin's guard against the cage.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Pichushkin is on top in guard. #REVB##SUB#
Cruz has his foot on Pichushkin's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Pichushkin works his way back into a safe position though.
Pichushkin postures up in Cruz's guard and throws a big left but Cruz blocks it.
Pichushkin wanted to stand there but Cruz had control of the position. #SUB#
Cruz is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Pichushkin is aware though and is defending well.#T4#
Pichushkin pushes down on Cruz's leg and manages to get into half guard.#SUB#
Cruz actively working from the bottom here.#SUB2#
Pichushkin is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Cruz sees it coming and defends easily.#SUB#
Cruz actively working from the bottom here.
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!#SUB2#
Pichushkin is working for a submission of some sort.
Pichushkin working the head and body with strikes. #SUB#
Cruz is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Pichushkin pulls his head out easily. #SUB#
Cruz looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Pichushkin drops an elbow to the side of Cruz's head. #SUB2#
Pichushkin is working for a kimura but Cruz is defending it quite comfortably.
Pichushkin seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Alexander Pichushkin showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Pichushkin throws a head kick that misses.
A cross from Pichushkin lands.#CL2#
Pichushkin moves into the clinch.
Pichushkin misses with a punch on the inside.
Cruz has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Pichushkin is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
A body shot lands from Pichushkin.
Pichushkin gets underhooks to prevent Cruz's takedown attempt.
Pichushkin struggles to land a body shot inside as Cruz controls his hands.
A shot in the inside from Pichushkin.
Pichushkin softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Cruz is trying to pull guard but Pichushkin turns him against the cage and we stay in the clinch.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. 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.
Pichushkin throws a punch but it's blocked by Cruz.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Cruz changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Pichushkin fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Pichushkin throws a nice head kick!
Oh Cruz is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Pichushkin swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Cruz tries to counter with a takedown but Pichushkin is quick to defend against it.#T1#
Cruz shoots in but no luck this time.
Cruz seems to have got his legs back now.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Pichushkin shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Pichushkin rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Cruz moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Cruz feinted with a counter takedown.
Alexander Pichushkin seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Pichushkin throws a head kick that misses.
Cruz tries to counter with a takedown but Pichushkin is quick to defend against it.
Nice takedown defense from Pichushkin. No joy for Cruz on that attempt.
Cruz tries to score a power double leg takedown but Pichushkin sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Cruz somewhat.
Ricardo Cruz is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt - Pichushkin sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Despite the aggression on Pichushkin's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.#CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Pichushkin can't find room to land a body shot as Cruz controls the action. #T2#
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Pichushkin.
Pichushkin swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Pichushkin is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Pichushkin misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Pichushkin goes for a body shot but it's blocked. #TD#
Cruz lands a takedown into guard.
Pichushkin is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#SUB2#
Pichushkin throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #SUB2#
Pichushkin looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!#SUB2#
Pichushkin working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Cruz doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Cruz manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Pichushkin keeps moving.
Cruz working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound. #T3#
Pichushkin 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.
Cruz postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Alexander Pichushkin has got the better of the ground game so far.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Pichushkin is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Pichushkin is on top in guard. #REVB#
Pichushkin has decided he wants to stand but the closed guard of Cruz is proving hard to escape from.
Cruz lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR#
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Pichushkin has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Cruz can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Pichushkin keeps moving.
Cruz is working Pichushkin over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Pichushkin wants to sweep here but Cruz controlling him for the moment.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Pichushkin is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T4#
Pichushkin keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass.
Cruz slips nicely into half guard.
Pichushkin is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Cruz scores with a couple of nice shots.#SUB#
Cruz is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Pichushkin is just riding it out for now. Cruz eventually gives up the hold.
Pichushkin is pressing down on Cruz's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Both fighters have adopted an aggressive gameplan on the ground!
Cruz working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage. #SUB2#
Pichushkin has his foot on Cruz's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Cruz works his way back into a safe position though.
Pichushkin 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#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cruz is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Pichushkin's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Pichushkin's back!
Ricardo Cruz has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Pichushkin is in a world of trouble here. He's outmatched on the ground here and he'd better get Cruz off his back sharpish unless he wants to be submitted.
Pichushkin is trying to break free.

And that's the end of the fight!
Alexander Pichushkin comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Pichushkin 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 Luis Engracia scores the fight 26:30
Judge Emerson Jorge scores the fight 26:30
Judge Matheus Silva scores the fight 26:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Alexander Pichushkin!
A relieved looking Alexander Pichushkin 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: Cup of tea?
Date: Oct 17, 2020

#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Spartan tries to clinch up.#TD2#
Spartan gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Cruz to score an easy takedown into full guard.
Cruz won't allow Spartan to sweep him here. #SUB#
Spartan has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Cruz can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Spartan is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Cruz working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
Cruz postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Spartan swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Spartan is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Spartan is keeping the position for now.
Spartan avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Spartan is trying to keep Cruz in close. #T1#
Spartan keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Cruz with a flurry of punches that miss.
Cruz lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Spartan not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Spartan manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Cruz manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
Spartan postures up. #SUB2#
Cruz throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #SUB2#
Cruz has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Spartan can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Spartan content to stall in guard here.
Spartan wants to stand but Cruz is controlling his posture from full guard. #T2##SUB2#
Cruz working for a triangle but Spartan defends it easily. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Spartan defends well.#SUB2#
Cruz escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Spartan gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Spartan wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving.
Spartan stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Cruz swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Spartan trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB2#
Cruz is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Spartan is aware though and is defending well.#T3##SUB2#
Cruz throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #SU#
Spartan gets to his feet and steps away from his opponent. #TD2#
Cruz looking to score a takedown here. Spartan is defending well but Cruz drives through and ends up in Spartan's guard.#ES#
Spartan uses the cage to get back to his feet.
Cruz moves out of range of the body kick.
Cruz is trying hard to land a takedown here. Spartan sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet. #CL#
Spartan forces Cruz back against the cage and clinches.
Spartan lands a left hand.
Cruz tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Spartan smiles and moves away.
This has been an exciting period of action!#TD#
Spartan closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth. #T4#
Spartan wants to control but Cruz is keeping him busy.
Cruz is looking for a sweep.
Cruz is trying to control Spartan's posture but Spartan avoids it.
Spartan moves into full mount!
Cruz is wriggling around trying to escape.
Spartan trying to control but Cruz is having none of it.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Furio Spartan dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Spartan leaves Cruz with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.#TD#
Spartan scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Cruz wants to improve his position but Spartan is controlling well.
Spartan tries to pass the half guard into mount. Cruz knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Cruz has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Spartan is working away from the top position though.
Cruz is not content to let Spartan control the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back.
Spartan seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Cruz does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#T1#
Cruz is looking for a sweep. Spartan is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Spartan takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.#SUB#
Spartan is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Cruz has managed to free his arm - good work.
Cruz trying to control here but he's found himself mounted! Oh no!
Furio Spartan overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Cruz really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Spartan content just to control the position here.
Spartan trying to control but Cruz is having none of it.
Cruz is looking to improve his position but Spartan isn't that keen on the idea.
Cruz is still trying to improve position.#T2#
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SU#
Spartan is standing up out of mount! Strange tactic there - he must really want this one on the feet!
Spartan tries to clinch there but Cruz circles away.
Spartan stuffs the takedown.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Spartan shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Furio Spartan has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
A left and a right from Spartan both land. Nice combination. #CUT#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.#TD#
Spartan darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Spartan prevents Cruz from improving his position.#T3#
Cruz is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Spartan tries to stand but his arm is trapped. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB#
Spartan is looking for a kimura here.
Spartan passes into side control, despite Cruz's attempt to control the position.
Cruz is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.#SUB#
Spartan is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg. #SUB#
Spartan is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Cruz is just riding it out for now. Spartan eventually gives up the hold. #T4##SUB2#
Spartan moves into side control, avoiding a weak kimura attempt from Cruz.
Cruz is looking for a sweep.
Cruz is trying to control Spartan's posture but Spartan avoids it.
Cruz manages to land a sweep and he's now on top! Lovely Jiu Jitsu!
Cruz landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Spartan is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Spartan manages to get to full guard.
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Furio Spartan dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. This is the final round!#R3##TD2#
Cruz throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Spartan tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Cruz is in Spartan's guard.#SUB2#
Cruz drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Cruz jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Spartan controls Cruz momentarily but Cruz frees himself.
Cruz lands a couple of digs.
Spartan wants to sweep but no luck.
Spartan keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Spartan lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR#
Spartan has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Spartan 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.
Spartan wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving.
Spartan stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Cruz swivels though and keeps the full guard. #SUB2#
Cruz is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle. #T1##SUB2#
Cruz working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Spartan doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Spartan manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #SUB2#
Spartan got a little sloppy there for a moment and Cruz has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Spartan has managed to get both his arms back between Cruz's legs - danger averted.
Cruz takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Spartan looking to pass the guard.
Spartan trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a triangle here but Spartan uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Cruz is looking to reverse the position.#SU#
Spartan decides to stand back up. Spartan steps back and let's Cruz get back to his feet.#TD#
Spartan decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.#T2##SUB2#
Cruz actively working from the bottom here.
Spartan wants to take a breather but Cruz is having none of it.
Cruz won't allow Spartan to pass to mount. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Spartan is trying to work for a kimura but Cruz is defending well. #SUB#
Spartan is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Cruz has managed to free his arm - good work.
Cruz is looking for a sweep. Spartan is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
The fighters are battling for position here. Cruz manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Spartan sitting in guard here, content to control. #T3#
Spartan trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Spartan avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Cruz 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#
Cruz throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Spartan's corner is telling him to maintain position.#SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Spartan defends well.
Spartan would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard. #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.
Cruz is trying to keep Spartan in close. #SUB2#
Cruz has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Spartan can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #SUB2#
Cruz working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Spartan doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Oh but Cruz is tightening it up a little... Spartan has to be careful here... He's got his foot tucked under now, this looks tight! Spartan reacted too slowly and this one could be over in a matter of seconds! YES! Spartan taps out! Nice BJJ there by Cruz!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:34 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Choke). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: Talking to me?!
Date: Aug 29, 2020

#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Cruz darts in looking for a takedown but Pyke gets double underhooks and turns Cruz into the ropes.
Pyke stuffs the takedown attempt from Cruz. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Pyke was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Cruz will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Magnus Pyke has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Pyke misses with an uppercut.
Pyke throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Cruz has been working on his striking defense in training and it's paying off as Pyke is landing a low percentage of strikes.
Cruz checks a leg kick nicely.
Cruz looks for a takedown but Pyke sprawls well.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz fails with the takedown#CL#
and Pyke moves into the clinch.
Cruz blocks a couple of punches on the inside. #TD#
Pyke lands a nice trip takedown into half guard. #T1#
Cruz tries to get to full guard but Pyke has control of the leg.
Cruz is refusing to be controlled, as Pyke sits in half guard.
Cruz trying to control but Pyke postures up.
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.
Cruz works his way to full guard. Good work.
The fighters are trapped in the ropes so we're going to have a reposition here. The ref calls for a break and repositions the fighters in the center of the ring.#SUB2#
Cruz is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Pyke is aware though and is defending well.#SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Pyke trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom.
Cruz looking for a sweep. Not yet Cruz, not yet. #SUB2#
Cruz escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Pyke gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance. #SUB2#
Cruz isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Pyke stacks Cruz 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 Pyke!#T2#
Pyke advances nicely into full mount.
Cruz tries to reverse the position but Pyke maintains control.
Pyke scoring with strikes but Cruz is staying in there.
Cruz is trying desperately to improve position.
Cruz is squirming around, avoiding Pyke's attempts to control the action.
Cruz can't escape the position.
Cruz is still trying to improve position.
Pyke cracks Cruz with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Cruz is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Cruz is in all sorts of trouble here.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cruz is squirming around, avoiding Pyke's attempts to control the action. #T3#
Pyke is really struggling to control Cruz but he's trying to hold on to the position.
Cruz tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Pyke raining down hammerfists from mount.
Pyke controlling the pace for now.
The referee warns Cruz that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head. #SUB#
Pyke is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Cruz can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.
Pyke dominating with strikes here.
Pyke can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Cruz is looking to escape.
Cruz is trying desperately to improve position.#T4#
Pyke controlling the pace for now.
Pyke wants to control the pace but Cruz is squirming around nicely.
Cruz sneaks a leg under to get to half guard.
The fighters are battling for position here. Cruz manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Pyke stopping the sweep attempt from Cruz.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Cruz is on top in guard. #REVB#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Pyke keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Magnus Pyke dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Pyke misses with a wild combination.
Cruz feints the counter takedown.
Pyke ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Cruz moves away.
Cruz tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Cruz shoots for a double leg takedown but Pyke sprawls well. He's pushed Cruz's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Pyke shows good takedown defense.
Cruz gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Pyke counters with a nice uppercut.
Magnus Pyke has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Pyke manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
Pyke is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Cruz can do to turn this around?
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Pyke keeps moving. #SUB#
Pyke has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Cruz can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #T1#
Cruz looking to pass the guard.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Pyke keeps moving.
Pyke tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Cruz is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Cruz works over Pyke with some ground and pound from guard.
Cruz pushing down on Pyke's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Cruz is keen to just control but Pyke is a slippery customer.#SUB#
Pyke is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Cruz pulls his head out easily.
Pyke trying to control but Cruz postures up. #T2##SUB2#
Cruz is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Pyke doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Cruz.
Pyke slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Cruz trying to control but Pyke is working from the bottom.
Cruz lands a couple of elbows.
Cruz tries to free his leg and advance position but Pyke is retaining full guard.
Cruz distracts Pyke with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Pyke wants to sweep here but Cruz controlling him for the moment. #T3#
Pyke trying to keep a closed guard but Cruz is proving a slippery customer.
Cruz postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Pyke is keeping the position for now. #SUB#
Cruz content to sit in guard, stalling... Great. Oh but he could get punished here because Pyke has locked up a guillotine! Pyke's face is contorted as he sqeezes tight on the submission attempt - will he finish? Cruz is holding on here and Pyke must be using up a lot of energy. Cruz has gone limp! He's out! He's out cold! Pyke gets to his feet, tossing aside his stricken foe. Arms raised, he milks the applause from the crowd. Great submission!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:42 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Magnus Pyke!
In his post fight interview, Magnus Pyke started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

Event: UnderGround FC 128
Date: May 30, 2020

#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Cruz tries for a takedown but Turturro sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Turturro just misses with a punch to the body.
Turturro throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Turturro throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Turturro lands a right hook to the body.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Turturro but Turturro pushes him off and we're back to square one.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Turturro scores with a sloppy right hand. Cruz should have avoided that one. #CUT2#It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Nice uppercut there from Turturro.
Turturro throws a jab but it's blocked by Cruz.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Turturro throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Cruz stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Giuseppe Turturro seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Turturro slaps away a takedown attempt from Cruz, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Turturro throws a lazy right hand but Cruz sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#TD#
Cruz drives through with a takedown into guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Turturro is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T1#
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #SUB2#
Turturro working away from the bottom but not quite defensive enough there because Cruz has passed into half guard!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz is nestled in close to Turturro, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Turturro keeping control of the position.
Cruz wants to lay and pray for a moment but Turturro keeps working.
Turturro is trying to get back to full guard.
Cruz is looking to advance position but Turturro won't allow it. #T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Cruz perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
Cruz thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas. #SUB#
Cruz is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Turturro is just riding it out for now. Cruz eventually gives up the hold. #SUB#
Cruz is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Turturro has his hands clasped together around Cruz's back. He's all about the action.
Cruz slows the pace down in half guard.
We've been hearing that Cruz has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Turturro trying to hold on to Cruz's head to control him but Cruz postures up. #T3##SUB#
Cruz is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Turturro has managed to free his arm - good work.
Turturro makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Turturro.
Turturro controlling the position.
Cruz passes into half guard.
Turturro is looking to improve his position.
Cruz is looking to stall here but Turturro recovers full guard.
Turturro keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully. #T4#
Cruz is stalling in the full guard.
Turturro is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Cruz looking to pass the guard.
Cruz passes Turturro's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
The fighters are battling for position here. Turturro manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Turturro wants to sweep but no luck.
Turturro working a defensive guard but Cruz passes into half guard.
Cruz seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Giuseppe Turturro will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Turturro throws a body punch but Cruz moves out of range.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Turturro as he jumps to the side.
Turturro misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Cruz.
Turturro swings widly with a right hand #TD#
and Cruz decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Turturro's guard.#SUB2#
Turturro working for a triangle but Cruz defends it easily.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Turturro is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB2#
Turturro is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Cruz is aware though and is defending well.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Cruz is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Cruz accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand. #T1#
Cruz wants to control from the top but Turturro keeps moving.
Cruz stopping the sweep attempt from Turturro.
Cruz not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Turturro is keeping the position for now.
Turturro wants to sweep but no luck.
Turturro controls Cruz momentarily but Cruz frees himself.
Cruz trying to move into half guard but instead Turturro has managed to sweep!#REVB##SUB#
Cruz working away from the bottom but not quite defensive enough there because Turturro has passed into half guard! #SUB#
Cruz is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Turturro pulls his head out easily. #T2##SUB#
Cruz is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Turturro pulls his head out easily. #SUB2#
Turturro is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Cruz is refusing to be controlled, as Turturro sits in half guard. #SUB2#
Turturro seems to be looking for submissions.
Cruz wants to improve his position but Turturro is controlling well. #SUB#
Cruz looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#T3#
Turturro wants to control but Cruz is keeping him busy. #SUB2#
Turturro is trying to work for a kimura but Cruz is defending well.
Cruz makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Cruz.
Cruz keeping full guard, as Turturro tries to pass.
Turturro sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Cruz's guard.
Cruz wants to control but Turturro is keeping busy and won't allow it. #T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Turturro is looking to stall here but Cruz recovers full guard.
Turturro passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Cruz tries to bench press Turturro off him but Turturro keeps the position. #SUB2#
Turturro tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Turturro is looking to take a break and control but Cruz is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Cruz is looking to regain half guard here but Turturro keeps moving and retains side control.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Giuseppe Turturro showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
A looping hook to the body misses from Turturro. Cruz does a little dance to reset his feet.
Cruz defending well as Turturro loads up on a big left hand.
Turturro misses the shot to the body.
Cruz misses with a takedown #CL2#
and Turturro counters by clinching up. #TD2#
Turturro jumps into guard, dragging Cruz to the mat.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Turturro keeps moving.
Our spies down at at Crassus inform us that Turturro has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?
Cruz controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Turturro is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cruz chips away with some ground and pound.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz trying to control but Turturro is working from the bottom.
Turturro 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##T1#
Turturro wants to control but Cruz is keeping him busy. #SUB#
Cruz looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Turturro has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Turturro trying to control the action but Cruz is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Turturro is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Turturro wants to control but Cruz is keeping him busy.
Giuseppe Turturro is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.#T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Turturro might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Cruz haven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.#SUB#
Cruz is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Turturro pulls his head out easily. #SUB#
Cruz looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Cruz is looking to improve his position.
Turturro perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there. #SUB#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back.
Cruz wants to control but Turturro is keeping busy and won't allow it. #T3#
Still in half guard, Turturro seems content to control.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Turturro cracks a nice hook into Cruz's ribs.
Turturro lands a right hook to the body.
Cruz takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Cruz is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
Cruz takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK. #TD#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
Turturro blocking the ground and pound attempt from Cruz.
Turturro won't allow Cruz to pass to mount.
Cruz trying to control the action but Turturro is working from the bottom.
Turturro is trying is best to control the position here. #T4##SUB#
Cruz is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Turturro has managed to free his arm - good work.
Turturro is positioning himself well to prevent Cruz advancing to mount.
Cruz is trying to control. Turturro wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Cruz is thwarting Turturro's attempts to control the position.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#SUB#
Cruz is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Turturro doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Cruz.
Cruz looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.

And that's the end of the fight!
Giuseppe Turturro comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Turturro 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 Nard Betker scores the fight 27:30
Judge Aafke Stam scores the fight 27:30
Judge Radbod Blank scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Giuseppe Turturro!
A very excited looking Giuseppe Turturro rambled incoherently for about 5 minutes post fight about how awesome he is. It was kinda funny for a while but then everyone got annoyed.

Event: UnderGround FC 112
Date: Apr 11, 2020

#R1#
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Cruz.
It seemed like Spratt was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Cruz.
Cruz definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Spratt keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Spratt is fending him off so far but Cruz persists. Nope, Spratt circles away and we're back to standing.
Ricardo Cruz 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.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Spratt circles away easily
and Spratt counters with a nice uppercut. #CUT2#
It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Cruz fails to land the takedown.
Spratt throws out a counter right but Cruz avoids it with no problem.
Jack Spratt is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#T1#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Spratt sprawls well. Spratt wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Cruz tries to clinch up
and Spratt connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Cruz dives in for a single leg takedown but Spratt sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
It seemed like Spratt was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.#TD#
Cruz drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.#T2#
A lull in the action here as Cruz stalls from top position.
Spratt really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Cruz. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Spratt tries to buck Cruz off but Cruz is having none of it.#SUB#
Cruz tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Cruz misses with the ground and pound.
Cruz taking a breather here.
Spratt is trying to get back to half guard.#T3#
Spratt gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there! #SUB#
Cruz goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Spratt turns into him and now he's in Cruz's guard.
Spratt wants to stand but Cruz has a closed guard, so he can't escape. #SUB#
Cruz is looking for a triangle but Spratt pushes his legs off easily.
Spratt wants to get up but he can't break Cruz's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here. #T4##SUB#
Cruz has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Spratt can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Spratt wants to get up but he can't break Cruz's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Cruz looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Spratt has picked Cruz up and slammed him! Cruz can't keep hold of the triangle and Spratt manages to pass to side control!
Spratt tries to stand but Cruz is controlling his head.
Cruz manages to land a sweep and he's now on top! Lovely Jiu Jitsu!
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Well, if Cruz 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.
Cruz winds up and cracks Spratt with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Jack Spratt will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz'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.
#R2#
Cruz closes this distance looking for a takedown but Spratt circles away.
Spratt looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Spratt stuffs the takedown attempt from Cruz. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Spratt circles away easily
and Spratt counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.#TD#
Cruz throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Spratt tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Cruz is in Spratt's guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Spratt can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cruz controls the pace.
Cruz looking to pass the guard.
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses. #T1#
Cruz trying to control but Spratt is working from the bottom.
Cruz showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Spratt swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Cruz passes easily into side control. Nice work.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz scoring with punches from side control. #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.
Cruz trying to control the position but Spratt is working away. #SUB#
Cruz swings around for an armbar but Spratt sees it coming a mile off and turns beautifully into Cruz's guard.
Cruz 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##SUB#
Cruz is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Spratt is just riding it out for now. Cruz eventually gives up the hold.
Cruz is taking a breather. Spratt 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.
Cruz 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. #T3##SUB#
Cruz is trying to work for a kimura but Spratt is defending well.
Cruz tries to pass to full mount but Spratt defends it.
Cruz controlling the action here.
Spratt is looking for a sweep. Cruz is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#SUB#
Cruz is looking for a kimura here.
Cruz controlling the pace.
Ricardo Cruz overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Cruz has controlled the position for a good 20 seconds, which will no doubt be starting to frustrate his opponent.
Cruz prevents Spratt from improving his position.
Spratt 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.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Cruz tries to pass to full mount but Spratt defends it.
Cruz is figuring out what he wants to do next.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. This is the final round!
#R3#
Cruz shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Spratt defends it nicely.
Spratt now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Cruz with a poor takedown
and Spratt makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.#TD#
Cruz throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Spratt was covering up waiting for the punch and Cruz finishes the takedown easily into guard.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Spratt is keeping the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Spratt is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Cruz is controlling him. #T1#
Cruz passes Spratt's left leg - he's now in half guard. #SUB#
Cruz is looking for a kimura but Spratt is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Cruz to get the leverage. #SUB#
Cruz is looking for a kimura but Spratt is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Cruz to get the leverage. #SUB#
Cruz is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Spratt doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Cruz. #SUB#
Cruz seems to be working for a kimura but Spratt defends the submission attempt.
Cruz seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Spratt does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Cruz is looking to advance position but Spratt won't allow it.
Spratt is looking for a sweep. Cruz is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Cruz looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Cruz is looking for the mount but instead finds himself back in full guard.
Spratt keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass. #T3#
Cruz is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Spratt is keeping the position.
Spratt looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Spratt working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cruz. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.#TD#
Cruz scores with a takedown into Spratt's guard.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Spratt is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cruz passes Spratt's left leg - he's now in half guard. #T4#
Cruz moves nicely into side control. #SUB#
Cruz goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Spratt has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Cruz but great work by Spratt.
Spratt tries to stand but Cruz is controlling his head.
Spratt tries to get to his feet but Cruz is in the middle of advancing position himself and ends up with Spratt in his guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB#
Spratt avoids a guillotine attempt easily.

And that's the end of the fight!
Ricardo Cruz showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Cruz 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 Paul Aken scores the fight 29:28
Judge Patrick Alders scores the fight 29:28
Judge Daniel Blasius scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ricardo Cruz!

Event: UnderGround FC 103
Date: Mar 14, 2020

#R1#
Cruz ducks under a wild hook from Jackson .
Jackson misses with a wild body shot.
Cruz doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Cruz takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Jackson scores with a jab to the jaw.#CUT2#
It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Cruz tries to score a power double leg takedown but Jackson sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Cruz somewhat.
Jackson dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#CL2#
Jackson moves into the clinch successfully.
Jackson throws a head punch that misses. #T1#
Jackson has Cruz pressed against the cage.
Jackson scores with an uppercut up the middle.
A short uppercut from Jackson .
With the fighters up against the cage, Cruz throws an elbow but misses. #BC#
Cruz breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Jackson fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Cruz takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Jackson smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.#CL2#
Jackson clinches up with Cruz and pushes him back against the cage.
Cruz tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Jackson fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Jackson stuffs the takedown.
Jackson tries to counter by closing the distance.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt from distance.#T2#
Cruz on the wrong end of a nice jab.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Cruz slips a straight right by Jackson .
Cruz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Jackson counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Nice uppercut lands for Jackson . That snapped Cruz's head back.
Cruz gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Jackson counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Cruz doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Jackson cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#ROC2#
Cruz is rocked!#CUT2#
Ricardo Cruz's cut is getting worse.
Jackson fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Jackson digs a good body shot into Cruz's ribs.
Jackson throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Cruz stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.#T3#
Nice sprawl there from Jackson as Cruz shoots in.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt
and Jackson counters with a right hand to the body.
Cruz is breathing heavily.
Cruz takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Jackson throws a hook but Cruz avoids it easily.
Cruz half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Jackson ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Jackson swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Horrible takedown attempt by Cruz or perhaps it was just good defense by Jackson , which made it look bad.
Jackson is landing a lot of head punches in this opening round! Cruz had better start moving his head a bit unless he wants his face to turn into pâté.
Jackson looks to score with a jab to the body but Cruz is just out of range.
Cruz avoids the body shot from Jackson .
Jackson lands a nice hook to Cruz's body. Cruz takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes. #T4#
Cruz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Jackson counters with a stiff right hand.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Jackson counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Cruz blocks a jab.
Jackson throws a body shot but no joy.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Cruz tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Jackson defends well and Cruz ends up having to push Jackson into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Jackson doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.#CL2#
Jackson gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Cruz changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Jackson fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Jackson throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Jackson connects with a body shot that sends Cruz's belly button to the back.#CL2#
Jackson moves into the clinch.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Walter Jackson dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz'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#
Cruz keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Jackson throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Cruz sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
and Jackson connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Cruz doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Cruz misses with a takedown
and Jackson counters with a nice body shot. #CL2#
Jackson clinches with his opponent.
Cruz wants to break the clinch but can't.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A real battle for position is taking place between these two warriors.
Cruz goes for a takedown in the clinch but Jackson prevents it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Jackson scores with a shot to the side of Cruz's head.
Jackson stalling the fight.
Jackson lands a right hand that snaps the head of Cruz backwards. #T1#
Jackson has a couple of punches blocked by Cruz.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Jackson manages to get underhooks.
Jackson tries to throw a body punch but Cruz avoids it by throwing Jackson back against the cage.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Jackson .
Jackson lands a left hand.
Cruz blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Cruz drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Cruz has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Jackson avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Stalling in the clinch from Jackson .
Jackson throws a head punch that misses.
Cruz drops down looking for an ankle pick but Jackson pulls his leg out and moves away.
Jackson scores with a body shot.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.#T2#
Nice defenses there by Cruz.
Cruz closes this distance looking for a takedown but Jackson circles away.
Jackson scores with a punch to the head.
Jackson has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Jackson throws a right hand that misses #TD#
so Cruz counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
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!
Jackson wants to stand up but Cruz is controlling him.
Cruz throwing strikes but missing.
Jackson wants to stand and escape but Cruz is having none of it.
Cruz looking to pass the guard.
Jackson being controlled here, momentarily. #T3#
Cruz looking to sit in guard and control but Jackson gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB##SUB#
Cruz throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Cruz looking for a sweep. Not yet Cruz, not yet.
Jackson tries to stand but Cruz is controlling from the bottom. #SUB#
Cruz has his foot on Jackson 's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Jackson works his way back into a safe position though.
Jackson really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Cruz. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.#T4#
Jackson stopping the sweep attempt from Cruz.#SUB#
Cruz throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #SUB#
Cruz throws his legs up looking for a submission but Jackson uses it to pass to side control.
Cruz is looking to reverse the position.#SU2#
Jackson stands up and beckons Cruz to his feet.
Jackson jabs at Cruz's body.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Walter Jackson showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
That's time! Back to the action! Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!
#R3#
Jackson scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Cruz looks for a takedown but Jackson sprawls well.
Jackson is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Cruz rather than just go for the knockout.
Jackson connects with a good right hand that stumbles Cruz. Cruz circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Jackson swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Cruz steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Jackson .
Cruz slips under a jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jackson ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Cruz moves away.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Jackson shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Cruz sets himself, and Jackson steps forward looking for the clinch! Cruz avoids it this time.#TD#
Cruz closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.#SUB#
Cruz wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Jackson , who protects the arm well. #T1#
Jackson wants to get back to his feet but Cruz drags him back down.#SUB#
Cruz tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Jackson is pushing Cruz's head away, looking to escape. Cruz manages to hold on to the position though.
Cruz misses with the ground and pound.
Jackson is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Cruz asserts his dominance and retains side control.#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.#SUB#
Cruz goes for an armbar! This could be all over! Wait, no, Jackson rolls with the submission and now he's on top in Cruz's guard! Nice work there by Jackson ! #SUB#
Cruz is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Cruz is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Jackson trying to stand up but can't free himself from Cruz's guard.
Cruz is trying to control the position from the bottom.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T3#
Cruz is really struggling to control Jackson but he's trying to hold on to the position.#SUB#
Cruz looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Jackson passes into side control.
Cruz misses with an elbow from the bottom.
Cruz is looking to regain half guard here but Jackson keeps moving and retains side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
You can see the frustration on Cruz's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#T4#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Jackson wants to stand but Cruz has his arm trapped. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Cruz dives in for a single leg takedown but Jackson sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Jackson with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Jackson counters with a straight right hand.
Cruz dives in and grabs Jackson 's left leg, looking for a takedown. Jackson pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.
Walter Jackson seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Cruz fails with the takedown
and Jackson counters with a left to the body.

And that's the end of the fight!
Walter Jackson comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Jackson 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 Aafke Stam scores the fight 26:30
Judge Nard Betker scores the fight 26:30
Judge Radbod Blank scores the fight 26:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Walter Jackson !

Event: UnderGround FC 96
Date: Feb 15, 2020

#R1#
Cruz shoots and misses
and Dos Santos counters with a right hand to the body.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Dos Santos sprawls well. Dos Santos wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.#CL2#
Cruz has Dos Santos up against the cage in a clinch.
Dos Santos is pressed up against the cage. Cruz has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Dos Santos down to the mat. Dos Santos avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Raiam Dos Santos has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz takes a shot right to the bread basket.
We've been told by Dos Santos's head coaches at Relentless Gym that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
A shot to the liver by Dos Santos. Beautiful body shot.
Dos Santos misses with a straight right.
Dos Santos fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Cruz looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.#T1#
Dos Santos takes a swing at Cruz's ribcage but misses.
Dos Santos closes the distance and lands a one-two.#CUT#
It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Dos Santos throws a combination that misses #TD2#
and Cruz counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Cruz. #ES#
Dos Santos is scooting his butt against the cage and has managed to get back to his feet. Cruz presses him back against the cage, presumably looking to take the fight back to the mat.
Cruz drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it. #BC2#
Cruz breaks the clinch.
Cruz fails with the takedown
and Dos Santos counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Horrible takedown attempt by Cruz or perhaps it was just good defense by Dos Santos, which made it look bad.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Dos Santos.#T2##CL2#
Cruz rushes Dos Santos and presses him up against the cage.#BC#
Dos Santos breaks the clinch.
Raiam Dos Santos is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Dos Santos keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
No luck for Cruz with that takedown attempt.
Dos Santos misses the jab.
Cruz shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
enabling Dos Santos to counter with a crisp jab. #T3##TD2#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Cruz.
Dos Santos wants to get back to his feet.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Cruz working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
Cruz just content to control the position.
Dos Santos wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!
Dos Santos gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Dos Santos keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound. #SUB2#
Cruz is working for a kimura but Dos Santos is defending it quite comfortably. #T4#
Dos Santos works his way to full guard. Good work.
Dos Santos tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Dos Santos can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cruz controls the pace.
Dos Santos keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Dos Santos wants to stand but Cruz is controlling the position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cruz not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Dos Santos looking to hit a scissor sweep but Cruz is one step ahead there.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Raiam Dos Santos dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
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#
Nice takedown defense from Dos Santos. No joy for Cruz on that attempt.
Dos Santos throws a series of strikes that have Cruz backpedaling.
No luck for Cruz with that takedown attempt.
Dos Santos is looking to wear down Cruz with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Cruz wants to clinch.
Dos Santos stuffs the takedown attempt from Cruz. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Raiam Dos Santos has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Dos Santos keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Cruz has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Dos Santos finds it's way round the side to connect with Cruz's head. #T1#
Cruz walks into a stiff left hand from Dos Santos.
Raiam Dos Santos is winning the standup battle so far.
Cruz doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Dos Santos cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Dos Santos lands with a hook. Cruz tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Dos Santos misses with a straight left.
Dos Santos misses with a wild body shot.
Cruz is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Dos Santos throws a hook but Cruz blocks it.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Cruz.
Dos Santos throws an ugly left hook that misses #TD2#
and Cruz counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground. #T2#
Cruz stopping the sweep attempt from Dos Santos.
Cruz trying to control but Dos Santos is working from the bottom.
Dos Santos is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Cruz can do to turn this around?
Cruz tries to free his leg and advance position but Dos Santos is retaining full guard. #SUB#
Dos Santos throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Dos Santos wants to sweep here but Cruz controlling him for the moment.
Cruz trying to control but Dos Santos is working from the bottom.
Cruz is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Dos Santos looking to hit a scissor sweep but Cruz is one step ahead there.
Cruz postures up.
Ricardo Cruz has got the better of the ground game so far.#T3#
Cruz landing some decent shots from guard.
Dos Santos keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Dos Santos being controlled here, momentarily.
Cruz stops Dos Santos from standing up.
The referee is asking the fighters to pick up the pace.
Dos Santos looking to hit a scissor sweep but Cruz is one step ahead there.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Dos Santos is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Cruz fails to land the takedown.#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.
A looping hook to the body misses from Dos Santos. Cruz does a little dance to reset his feet.#TD2#
Cruz throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Dos Santos tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Cruz is in Dos Santos's guard.
Cruz stops Dos Santos from standing up.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Dos Santos is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cruz controls from within his opponent's guard.
Cruz works a leg free and moves into half guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Dos Santos is not content to let Cruz control the position.
Cruz seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Raiam Dos Santos dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
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##TD2#
Cruz throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Dos Santos was covering up waiting for the punch and Cruz finishes the takedown easily into guard.
Cruz forces his way into half guard.
Dos Santos wants to get back to full guard.
Cruz wants to take a breather but Dos Santos is having none of it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Dos Santos wants to control but Cruz is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Dos Santos looks like he's trying to stand up.
Dos Santos slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Cruz 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. #T1##ES#
Dos Santos is scooting his butt against the cage and has managed to get back to his feet. Cruz presses him back against the cage, presumably looking to take the fight back to the mat.
Cruz goes for a takedown attempt but Dos Santos pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance. #TD2#
Cruz bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Dos Santos wants to get back to his feet but Cruz drags him back down.
Cruz is maintaining the dominant position - no doubt Dos Santos will start to get frustrated soon if he's not already.
Dos Santos knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Cruz on the ground.
Dos Santos is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.
Dos Santos is trying to get back to half guard.#SUB2#
Cruz tries for a kimura but Dos Santos is defending well. #T2#
Dos Santos is looking to regain half guard here but Cruz keeps moving and retains side control.
Dos Santos can't do much from the bottom here.
Cruz prevents Dos Santos from escaping the position.
Dos Santos trying desperately to get back to his feet here but he's not having any joy at all. He's going to tire himself out if he's not careful.#SUB2#
Cruz has an Americana. Dos Santos didn't react quickly enough there and he's in big trouble now! He tries to squirm out but is forced to tap! Cruz is delighted and gyrates in front of the ring girls. They seem to like the attention - it'll be interesting to see if Cruz hooks up with any of them at the after show party.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:59 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: UnderGround FC 86
Date: Jan 12, 2020

#R1#
Nice takedown defense from Turturro. No joy for Cruz on that attempt.
Turturro has done a lot of speed work in the buildup to this fight.#CL2#
Turturro clinches with his opponent. #TD#
Cruz has clasped his hands together around Turturro's back... aaand, he's got a takedown into side control. Nicely done.
Turturro tries to bench press Cruz off him but Cruz keeps the position.
Turturro gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Turturro regains full guard. Nicely done.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Turturro keeps moving.
Turturro working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cruz.
Turturro has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Turturro keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz 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. #SUB2#
Turturro has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Cruz can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Cruz trying to control but Turturro is working from the bottom. #T1#
Cruz controls from within his opponent's guard.
Cruz definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.#SUB2#
Cruz got a little sloppy there for a moment and Turturro has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Cruz has managed to get both his arms back between Turturro's legs - danger averted.
Turturro 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.
Cruz is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Turturro working a defensive guard here.
Cruz controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Turturro is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Turturro 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.
Cruz trying to control but Turturro is working from the bottom. #T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Turturro is trying to control the position but Cruz postures up.
Turturro looking for a sweep. Not yet Turturro, not yet.
Turturro keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass.
Cruz postures up.
Turturro keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Turturro closes the distance but Cruz moves to the side #TD#
and Cruz counters with a single leg into guard. Turturro didn't expect that.
Turturro is trying to control the position from the bottom. #SUB2#
Turturro is looking for a triangle but Cruz pushes his legs off easily.
Turturro looking to hit a scissor sweep but Cruz is one step ahead there.
Cruz trying to control but Turturro is working from the bottom.
Cruz is stalling in the full guard. #T3#
Cruz trying to control but Turturro is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Turturro working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Cruz doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Cruz manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Turturro keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Cruz postures up.
Turturro wants to sweep but no luck.
Turturro is trying to control the position but Cruz postures up.
Turturro looking to hit a scissor sweep but Cruz is one step ahead there. #SUB2#
Cruz avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Turturro looking to control. #SUB2#
Turturro working for a triangle but Cruz defends it easily. #T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Cruz sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Cruz passes Turturro's left leg - he's now in half guard. #SUB2#
Turturro looking for submissions off his back.
Turturro is trying to control but Cruz manages to pass to mount!
Cruz controlling from mount.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Turturro prevents Cruz from taking his back.
Cruz controlling his opponent.
Turturro can't escape the position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
That's time! Cruz's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.
#R2##CL2#
Turturro gets in close and instigates a clinch. #TD2#
Turturro successfully pulls guard.
Turturro is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Cruz trying to control but Turturro is working from the bottom.
Cruz scoring with some ground and pound.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Turturro looking to control.
Turturro wants to sweep here but Cruz controlling him for the moment.
Cruz is in close to Turturro's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Turturro tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Cruz tries to free his leg and advance position but Turturro is retaining full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Cruz got a little sloppy there for a moment and Turturro has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Cruz has managed to get both his arms back between Turturro's legs - danger averted.
Turturro not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Cruz slips nicely into half guard.#SUB2#
Turturro looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T1##SUB#
Cruz seems to be looking for submissions.
Cruz is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Turturro can do to turn this around?
Cruz prevents Turturro from improving his position.
Ricardo Cruz overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Turturro is still trying to improve position.
Cruz is pressing down on Turturro's thigh, looking to free his foot. Turturro is holding on for now. #SUB#
Cruz is working for a kimura but Turturro is defending it quite comfortably. #SUB#
Cruz is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Turturro is just riding it out for now. Cruz eventually gives up the hold. #T2#
Cruz prevents Turturro from improving his position.#SUB2#
Cruz moves into side control, avoiding a weak kimura attempt from Turturro.
Cruz wants to lay and pray for a moment but Turturro keeps working.
Turturro tries to improve position but can't. #SUB#
Cruz is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Turturro knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Turturro can't do much from the bottom here. #T3#
Turturro is trying to improve his position.
Turturro is not content to let Cruz control the position.
Turturro manages to work his way to half guard, despite Cruz's best efforts.
Turturro trying to control here.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Turturro is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Cruz controlling the action here.
Cruz moves nicely into side control.
Turturro wants to control but Cruz postures up.#T4#
Turturro gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard. #SUB#
Cruz is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Cruz takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.
Turturro trying to hold on to Cruz's head to control him but Cruz postures up.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Turturro is defending well.
Turturro regains full guard. Nicely done.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Cruz sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Turturro's guard.
Turturro taking some punishment here, with Cruz in his half guard.
Turturro is trying to get back to full guard.#SUB2#
Turturro looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that second round.
That's time! Cruz's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!
#R3#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Turturro as he avoids it easily. #CL2#
Cruz gets tackled into the cage by Turturro. Turturro maintains the clinch. #TD2#
Turturro pulls guard effortlessly.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Turturro keeps moving.
Turturro is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Turturro is on top in guard. #REVB##SUB#
Cruz had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Turturro defends it easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control. #SUB#
Cruz looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Turturro has picked Cruz up and slammed him! Cruz can't keep hold of the triangle and Turturro manages to pass to side control!#T1#
Cruz throws an elbow to the body but it doesn't land.
Turturro passes to full mount! That's big trouble for Cruz!
Cruz is working to get back to half guard.
Cruz wants to control but Turturro is having none of it.
Turturro controlling his opponent.
Turturro trying to control but Cruz is having none of it.
Cruz is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Cruz is working hard here to advance position.
Giuseppe Turturro has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Turturro content just to control the position here.
Cruz manages to control the position for a moment.
Cruz is in all sorts of trouble here.
Turturro takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Cruz is squirming around, avoiding Turturro's attempts to control the action. #SUB2#
Turturro goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Cruz turns into him and now he's in Turturro's guard.
Cruz 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. #T3#
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Turturro swivels though and keeps the full guard. #SUB2#
Turturro is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Turturro keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully. #SUB#
Cruz is trying to work a guillotine from the top, or something like that? Don't know how he thinks he's going to get a finish from there.
Cruz won't allow Turturro to sweep him here.
Turturro can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cruz controls the pace.
Cruz postures up.
Cruz controls from within his opponent's guard.
Turturro wants to control but instead he gets his guard passed and Cruz is now in half guard. #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.#SUB#
Cruz wants to work for an arm triangle but Turturro is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Cruz has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Turturro working to try and regain half guard.
Cruz wants to take his opponent's back but he's not managed it. #SUB#
Turturro defends a decent attempt at a guillotine from Cruz.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Turturro is working to get back to half guard.
Ricardo Cruz is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Turturro flailing away with punches but nothing is landing.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Giuseppe Turturro.
I think Cruz 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 Steve Montenegro scores the fight 29:28
Judge Franklyn Lucas scores the fight 30:28
Judge Columbo Gatti scores the fight 30:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ricardo Cruz!

Event: UnderGround FC 76
Date: Dec 14, 2019

#R1#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Parret as he avoids it easily.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Parret as he avoids it easily.
Cruz fails with the takedown
and Parret counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head. #CUT#
It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Pate Parret has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Parret is trying to defend but Cruz finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Parret keeping hold of Cruz's head, controlling as best he can.
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses, also allowing Parret to regain full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Parret keeps moving.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Parret controlling Cruz's posture. #T1#
Parret keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Parret keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Cruz missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Cruz controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Cruz accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Cruz working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
Parret keeping full guard, as Cruz tries to pass. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.#REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
An inside leg kick lands from Parret.
Parret throws a hook but Cruz blocks it.
Parret throws a looping overhand right but Cruz ducks down to avoid it.
Parret thows a leg kick but Cruz checks it #TD2#
and Cruz counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Parret swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Parret has control of Cruz's left arm, preventing Cruz from doing any damage.
Parret'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.#T3#
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Parret is keeping the position.
Cruz chips away with some ground and pound.
Cruz slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Parret pulls Cruz in close to his closed guard and prevents Cruz from doing any damage or advancing position.
Cruz controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Parret is keeping the position.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Parret working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cruz.
Cruz content to stall in guard here.
Parret keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Parret fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Cruz is trying hard to land a takedown here. Parret sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Parret as he jumps to the side.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Parret circles away easily
and Parret counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
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 Pate Parret will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz'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#
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
letting Parret counter with a right hand.
Good leg kick by Parret there. It's the ones that make that thud noise that hurt and that was an almighty thud.
Parret throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
Parret stuffs the takedown attempt from Cruz. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Parret connects with a crisp jab. #KD#
Parret lands a big head kick that sends Cruz tumbling to the mat! Parret takes a step backwards and waves Cruz back to his feet - he wants the finish!#ROC#
Cruz is rocked!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Cruz will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Pate Parret has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Parret digs a good body shot into Cruz's ribs.
Ricardo Cruz is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Cruz has his takedown stuffed
and Parret counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Cruz is still on wobbly legs! Can Parret finish him?
Parret scores with a spinning back kick!
Cruz seems to have recovered his senses.
Cruz bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.#T1#
Nice uppercut there from Parret.
Cruz chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Parret can pounce on him.
Cruz slips under a jab.
Cruz fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Parret scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Nice cross by Parret.#CUT#
That has opened up Ricardo Cruz's cut even more.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
and Parret cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Parret lands a front kick.
Parret rushes in with a sloppy looking punch #TD2#
and Cruz counters with a shoot takedown. Parret fights it but they end up in guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Parret is adopting a defensive guard.
Cruz has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.#T2#
Cruz controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Ricardo Cruz has got the better of the ground game so far.
Cruz looking to pass the guard.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Parret is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Parret is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Cruz trying to control but Parret is working from the bottom.
Cruz wants to pass the guard but Parret is keeping the position.#REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.#T3#
A decent looking cross lands there for Parret.
Cruz tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Parret lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Parret is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Cruz can do to turn this around?
Parret lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Parret slaps away a takedown attempt from Cruz, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Cruz avoids the body shot from Parret. #TD2#
Cruz drives through with a takedown into Parret's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
Cruz controlling from the top position.
Cruz trying to control but Parret is working from the bottom. #T4#
Cruz is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
Cruz pushes down on Parret's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Parret is looking to control Cruz's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Parret avoid being mounted?#SUB2#
Cruz wants to work for an arm triangle but Parret is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt. #SUB2#
Cruz is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Parret sees it coming and defends easily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Pate Parret dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz'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#
Horrible takedown attempt by Cruz or perhaps it was just good defense by Parret, which made it look bad.
A jab from Parret finds it's way through Cruz's defenses.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Parret but Parret pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Parret looks to score with a jab to the body but Cruz is just out of range.
Cruz is looking for the big counter here.
Parret throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Cruz sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Parret throws a half hearted mid kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Parret throws a body kick despite being completely out of range#TD2#
and Cruz counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Cruz uses his free foot to push down on Parret's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Parret.
Cruz looking to control but Parret is working nicely, looking to advance position himself. #T1##SUB2#
Cruz goes for an armbar but he's fallen flat on his backside there and now Parret is on top in guard. #SUB2#
Cruz working for a triangle but Parret defends it easily.
Parret has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Cruz looking for a sweep. Not yet Cruz, not yet.
Parret advances to half guard. #T2##SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Cruz is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Cruz is trying to maintain the position but Parret is very close to passing his half guard.
Cruz tries to get to full guard but Parret has control of the leg.
Cruz trying to control from the bottom.
Cruz is looking for a sweep. Parret is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions off his back.#T3#
Parret prevents Cruz from improving his position.#SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Cruz wants to improve his position but Parret is controlling well.
Parret with a momentary lay and pray from half guard. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Parret misses with a series of wild punches. #T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Parret throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Cruz misses with a takedown
and Parret counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Pate Parret has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Parret lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Cruz at a distance.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
and Cruz takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Cruz takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Cruz fails with the takedown
and Parret counters with a nice low kick that buckles Cruz's knee momentarily.
Cruz with a poor takedown
and Parret counters with a straight right hand.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz takes a shot right to the bread basket.
A jab from Parret does it's job there.
A decent looking body kick lands there for Parret.
Cruz takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Pate Parret clearly takes that round.
The cut man is working on Ricardo Cruz's cut.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action.
#R4#
Parret jabs Cruz to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Parret shows good takedown defense.
Cruz avoids the body shot from Parret.
Parret throws a lazy right hand but Cruz sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Cruz is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Nice takedown defense from Parret. No joy for Cruz on that attempt.
The fighters circling - Parret throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Parret circles away easily
enabling Parret to counter with a crisp jab.
Pate Parret has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Cruz steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Parret.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Parret thuds a left hand into Cruz's body.
Parret lands a front kick.
Parret thuds his right hand into Cruz's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Cruz is absolutely dripping with sweat - he looks exhausted.
Cruz tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Parret defends well and Cruz ends up having to push Parret into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.#T1#
Parret thuds his right hand into Cruz's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Parret stuffs the takedown.
Parret lands a nice shot that snaps Cruz's head back.
Parret lands a really nice looking cross but Cruz seems unphased. #CUT#
The cut above Ricardo Cruz's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
Parret drops Cruz with a big left hand! Cruz is injured, injured bad! Parret jumps in and finished him with strikes! The fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:26 of round 4, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Pate Parret!
Pate Parret retains his middleweight title!
During a confident post fight interview, Pate Parret thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

Event: UnderGround FC 61
Date: Nov 09, 2019

#R1##TD2#
Mybitch gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Cruz to score an easy takedown into full guard.
Cruz is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Cruz trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Mybitch working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cruz.
Cruz preventing the sweep.
Cruz 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.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Cruz working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz pushes down on Mybitch's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Mybitch is trying to stand back up but Cruz is controlling him
Mybitch knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Cruz on the ground.#T1##SUB2#
Cruz is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Cruz controlling the pace.
Cruz's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.
Let's hope that Cruz 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.#SUB2#
Cruz is working for a submission here. He's got hold of the far side arm and he's looking for a kimura. He's cranking on the arm and he's got it! Mybitch is tapping out! Ouch, that looked like it hurt!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: UnderGround FC 48
Date: Sep 28, 2019

#R1##TD2#
Cruz dives in and scores a takedown into Danis's guard.
Cruz told us pre-fight that he has been working on his escapes in training. Let's see if he can call on some of his new skills to get back to his feet.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Danis keeps moving.
Danis being controlled here, momentarily.
Danis keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Cruz with a flurry of punches that miss.
Cruz 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.
Cruz throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Cruz controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Cruz trying to control but Danis is working from the bottom.
Cruz showing good wrestling skills to control the position. #T1#
Cruz trying to control but Danis is working from the bottom.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Danis is keeping the position for now.
Cruz trying to control but Danis is working from the bottom. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Dillion Danis seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#TD#
Danis shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat. #ES2#
Cruz has scooted to the edge of the canvas and used the cage to get back to his feet. Danis has stuck on his opponent and is forcing him back against the cage.#TD#
Danis has managed to pull guard. Let's see whether he can work an aggressive guard. It will also be interesting to see what tactics Cruz uses from the top position. #SUB#
Danis looking for a guillotine here but Cruz defends easily.
Danis is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Danis seems to have improved his submission grappling technique since last time we saw him. Let's see if he can pull off a submission.#T2##SUB#
Danis is looking for a triangle but Cruz pushes his legs off easily.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Cruz trying to control but Danis is working from the bottom.
Cruz stands and throws Danis's legs to the side, diving into side control. #SUB2#
Cruz tries for a kimura but Danis is defending well.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Danis is looking for a sweep.
You can see the frustration on Danis's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#SUB2#
Cruz tries for a kimura but Danis is defending well. #SUB2#
Cruz wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Danis, who protects the arm well. #T3##SUB2#
Cruz has an Americana. Danis didn't react quickly enough there and he's in big trouble now! He tries to squirm out but is forced to tap! Cruz is delighted and gyrates in front of the ring girls. They seem to like the attention - it'll be interesting to see if Cruz hooks up with any of them at the after show party.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:29 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Ricardo Cruz!
Dillion Danis spoke after the fight, saying 'You got lucky punk! A rematch is in order!'.

Event: UnderGround FC 41
Date: Sep 13, 2019

#R1#
Urip stuffs the takedown attempt from Cruz. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.
Urip looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Urip misses with a jab, cross combination. #CL#
Urip has managed to clinch.
Cruz looking for a takedown.
Cruz keeps control of Urip as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks.
Urip is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.
Cruz is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Kang Urip has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.#TD2#
Cruz has double underhooks and is working for a body lock takedown. He's got it. The fighters land in half guard but Urip regains guard immediately.
Urip wants to stand but Cruz is controlling the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Cruz drops back looking for a leg! Urip is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Urip manages to kick Cruz off! Cruz jumps back into Urip's guard.
Cruz prevents Urip from getting back to his feet. #T1#
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Urip swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Cruz trying to control but Urip is working from the bottom.
Urip is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Cruz stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Urip swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Urip keeps moving.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cruz sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Urip working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cruz. #SU2#
Cruz gets to his feet and steps away from his opponent.
Urip looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Cruz is trying hard to land a takedown here. Urip sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Urip dips down and scores with a jab to the body.#T2#
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Cruz shoots in but no luck this time.
Urip is looking for a counter combo.
Urip lands a right hook to the body.
Kang Urip is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Cruz dives in for a single leg takedown but Urip sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Cruz will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Urip throws a series of punches but Cruz avoids them all with ease. #TD2#
Cruz drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Urip knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Cruz on the ground.
Urip being controlled here, momentarily.
Both fighters have adopted an aggressive gameplan on the ground!
Urip wants to get back to his feet but Cruz is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Cruz trying to control but Urip is working from the bottom.
Urip can't keep his opponent in guard - Cruz advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Urip wants to get back to his feet.#T3#
Well, if Cruz 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.
Cruz seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Urip does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Urip is trying to stand up here but Cruz is controlling him well.
Cruz trying to control the action but Urip is working from the bottom.
Urip pushes Cruz off but Cruz dives into side control.
Urip tries to escape but Cruz is in control. #SUB2#
Cruz tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Urip tries to escape but Cruz is in control.
Urip on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Urip tries to get out of the position.#SUB2#
Cruz wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Urip, who protects the arm well.
Cruz is moving around in side control but his primary objective seems to be to maintain the position. #T4#
Urip tries to escape but Cruz is in control. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Urip has escaped the position, nice work there.
Urip is trying to buck Cruz off.
Cruz misses with an attempted head punch from side control.
Urip gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there!
Cruz tries to control but Urip wriggling away.
Cruz tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Urip is squirming around, avoiding Cruz's attempts to control the action.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Ricardo Cruz will probably get the nod.
That's time! Back to the action!
#R2#
Urip misses with a wild combination.
Cruz looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Urip is fending him off so far but Cruz persists. Nope, Urip circles away and we're back to standing.
Urip throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Cruz.
Kang Urip is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Urip lands a really nice looking cross but Cruz seems unphased.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown but Urip manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Cruz's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Urip throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped #TD2#
and Cruz counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Cruz controlling the action here.
Cruz prevents Urip from standing back up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
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. Cruz connects with a nice short shot to Urip's temple.
Urip wants to get back to his feet. #SUB2#
Cruz 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.
Urip is trying to stand back up but Cruz is controlling him #T1#
Cruz not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Urip tries to kick Cruz off in order to stand up. Cruz Avoids the leg push though and dives into side control. #SUB2#
Cruz looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Cruz prevents Urip from escaping the position.
Cruz trying to control the action but Urip is working from the bottom.
Cruz prevents Urip from escaping the position.
Cruz trying to control the position but Urip is working away. #SUB2#
Cruz is trying to get an arm triangle but Urip is defending well. #T2#
Urip is trying to escape the position but Cruz is controlling the position. #SUB2#
Cruz tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Urip bucks up and tries to throw Cruz off but instead Cruz has got his back!
Urip trying to get back to his feet but Cruz is in full control for now.
Cruz throwing lazy shots from the back mount that aren't doing any damage.
Urip is trying to get back to his feet but Cruz has full control of the position and if anything, Urip has just worked his way into a worse spot.#T3##SUB2#
Cruz has the rear naked choke here! This is very bad for Urip! Can he survive? No! He's out! Cruz gets to his feet and celebrates with his cornermen. He looks absolutely delighted. In the post fight interviews he takes time to thank his parents and everyone who has believed in him from the start. How sweet.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:20 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: UnderGround FC 32
Date: Aug 21, 2019

#R1#
A lazy body kick from Bautista #TD#
and Cruz counters with a nice double leg into side control. Bautista won't be happy with that. #SUB#
Cruz is in a dominant position here, looking for a kimura. Bautista looks calm but he's in trouble here. Cruz gets his leg over his opponent's head and yanks on the arm. Bautista is tapping like a morse code operator on the titanic! SOS! SOS! Cruz lets go of the hold and Bautista can pop his arm back in it's socket.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Aug 01, 2019

#R1##TD2#
Cruz decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
Cruz tries to pass the half guard into mount. Thompson knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Thompson on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Thompson tries to get out of the position.
Thompson is looking to improve his position.
Cruz controlling the action here.
It looks like Cruz might be adopting somewhat of a lay and pray gameplan here, which I'm sure won't go down too well with the paying fans in attendance... Or the ring announcers come to think of it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.#SUB#
Thompson is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Cruz pulls his head out easily. #T1#
Cruz passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Thompson !
Thompson knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Cruz on the ground.#SUB2#
Cruz quickly switches position and commits to an armbar! It's a big risk for Cruz but it's paid off an Thompson is forced to tap! Nice work by Cruz.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:26 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Jul 18, 2019

#R1#
Left hook, right uppercut from Immanuel.
Immanuel lands a head shot.#CL#
Immanuel clinches up against the cage.
Immanuel scores with a nice hook to the head.
Cruz tries to score a body lock takedown but Immanuel shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Immanuel lands a hook that snaps the head of Cruz backwards.
Immanuel lands a left hand.
A nice right hand lands inside from Immanuel.
Immanuel scores with a shot to the side of Cruz's head.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Immanuel gets an overhook and lands an elbow to the side of the head. #CUT#
It looks like Ricardo Cruz has been cut.
Immanuel tries to throw a body punch but Cruz avoids it by throwing Immanuel back against the cage.
Immanuel softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.#ROC#
Cruz is rocked!
Immanuel misses with a hook from the clinch.
Cruz drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Immanuel lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Cruz has Immanuel pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Immanuel manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Yeshua Immanuel has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Cruz is working for takedown but Immanuel is calmly controlling the position for now.#T1#
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Immanuel.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Immanuel.
Immanuel lands a left hand.
Immanuel lands a right hand.
Immanuel working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Immanuel gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Cruz. #KD#
Immanuel drops Cruz onto one knee with a big uppercut from the clinch! Cruz is propped up by the cage and works his way back to his feet!
Cruz is still on wobbly legs! Can Immanuel finish him?
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Immanuel lands a big right hand that drops Cruz! The killer instinct kicks in and Immanuel finishes his opponent with a series of strikes from mount. A dominating finish by Immanuel!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:39 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Yeshua Immanuel!

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Jun 09, 2019

#R1##TD2#
Cruz closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
We could do with one of the fighters taking the initiative a bit more on the ground - they're both waiting to capitalize on a mistake.#SUB2#
Cruz thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead. #SU2#
Cruz decides to stand up, so the ref orders Souza to his feet. #TD2#
Cruz looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Souza!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Cruz in side control, just content to control the action for now. #T1#
Souza is trying to control Cruz's posture but Cruz avoids it.
Souza on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Souza tries to get out of the position.
Cruz looks up at the clock and then as Souza takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Cruz smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
Cruz taking a breather here. #SUB2#
Cruz thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Cruz in side control lands a decent elbow.
Souza is trying to escape the position but Cruz is controlling the position. #T2#
Cruz has knee on belly and moves into mount.
Cruz looking to control and managing it successfully.
Let's hope that Cruz 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.#SUB2#
Cruz working for a submission but Souza is keeping him at bay.
Souza tries to improve his position but instead Cruz has taken his back! #SUB2#
Cruz has the rear naked choke here! This is very bad for Souza! Can he survive? No! He's out! Cruz gets to his feet and celebrates with his cornermen. He looks absolutely delighted. In the post fight interviews he takes time to thank his parents and everyone who has believed in him from the start. How sweet.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Ricardo Cruz!

Home

What is MMA Tycoon?

Forgot Details

MMA Affiliate Program

Managers online: 931

Total users: 40230