Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: APEX 9
Date: Nov 05, 2023

#R1#
Daan tries to clinch but Raikov is having none of it.
Raikov pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Daan tries to close the distance and clinch but Raikov swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
It seemed like Raikov was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Daan tests Raikov's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Daan has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Brooklyn Mixed Martial Arts in the buildup to the fight.
Raikov misses with an uppercut. Daan saw that one coming.
Raikov pulls out of a head kick attempt.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Raikov 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.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Raikov.
Raikov misses with a takedown
and Daan makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Daan's corner calls for a 1-2. Daan obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Daan looks to score with a jab to the body but Raikov is just out of range.
Raikov takes a kick to the body and keeps moving.
Raikov misses with a hook.
Daan feinted there with a counter leg kick.
Daan fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Raikov.
Daan throws a nice inside leg kick.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Daan.#T1#
Raikov throws a lazy uppercut
and Daan counters with a nice body kick.
Good leg kick by Daan.
Raikov throws a half hearted mid kick.
Ivan Raikov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Daan tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Raikov manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Raikov on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Raikov has a takedown stuffed.
Levi Daan has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ivan Raikov.
Raikov fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Daan manages to avoid it.
Daan throws a quick counter kick to the body but Raikov avoids it.
Raikov has a nice red mark on his side after a thudding body kick by Daan.#CL2#
Raikov closes the distance and pushes Daan back into the cage.
Daan swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Raikov blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Daan scores with a shot to the side of Raikov's head.
Raikov goes for a takedown attempt but Daan pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
Daan misses with a body shot.
Daan lands with a nice body punch. #T2#
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nice straight punches there by Daan. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Daan.#CUT#It looks like Ivan Raikov has been cut.#CL2#
Raikov moves into the clinch.
Daan blocks an elbow strike.
Raikov misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Daan.
Daan on the defensive, avoiding the knees to the body.
Raikov misses with an elbow over the top.
Daan lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Raikov throws an elbow that misses.
Daan swings wildly with an uppercut but Raikov uses good head movement to avoid it.
Raikov trying to land knees to the body.
Daan doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Raikov drops to a knee looking for a takedown but Daan gets the underhooks and prevents it.
Daan pushes Raikov back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
A left hand lands to the body for Daan.
Raikov goes for a takedown attempt but Daan pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance. #T3#
Raikov with a lazy takedown attempt
and Daan connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Daan bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Raikov misses with a hook
and he gets countered with a snapping leg kick.
Raikov looks winded!
Raikov walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
A nice leg kick from Daan, right into the meat of the thigh.
Raikov fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Daan avoids it really well and circles away.
Daan lands with a straight right. Raikov didn't see that one coming.
Raikov darts in looking for a takedown but Daan gets double underhooks and turns Raikov into the cage.
It looked like Daan wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.#CL2#
Raikov clinches with his opponent.
Daan makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
A short uppercut from Daan.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Daan doesn't land with the attempted body shot. #T4#
Daan lands a shoulder strike.
Daan lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Raikov misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Daan.
Daan can't find room to land a body shot as Raikov controls the action.
Raikov drops down looking for an ankle pick but Daan pulls his leg out and moves away.
Raikov shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Daan as he jumps to the side.
Daan connects with a body shot that sends Raikov's belly button to the back.
Raikov throws a series of punches but Daan moves out of range.
A combination from Raikov does no damage.
Daan keeps Raikov at a distance using the push kick. #CL#
Daan forces Raikov back against the cage and clinches.
Good body shot from Daan.
Raikov's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Daan makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Daan tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Raikov's elbow.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Levi Daan dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ivan Raikov's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Raikov walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Raikov throws a poor cross that misses
and Raikov takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Levi Daan is winning the standup battle so far.
Raikov fails with the takedown
and Daan cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Daan lands a leg kick that knocks Raikov off balance momentarily.#CL#
Daan clinches up against the cage.
Daan slowing the pace effectively.
A right handed body shot lands from Daan.
A right hand to the body from Daan.
Raikov throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but Daan blocks it with crossed arms.
Daan taking a breather.
Daan blocks a body shot from Raikov.
Levi Daan has scored more points in the clinch so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Raikov using the Thai plumb to throw knees but Daan has his back arched nicely, preventing the strike.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Daan.
Daan blocks an uppercut.
Daan lands with a light punch inside.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Daan scores with a nice hook to the head.
Daan is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Raikov can do to turn this around?#T1#
Daan scores with a shoulder strike.
Daan lands a right hand that snaps the head of Raikov backwards.
Raikov looking to slow down the pace here.
Daan scores with a shoulder strike.
The referee is keeping an eye on Daan - much more stalling and he will separate the fighters.
Daan lands with a right to the head.
Raikov misses with a knee strike.
Daan lands a nice uppercut.
Daan lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Raikov drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Raikov is breathing heavily.
Daan lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Raikov backwards.
A short right from Daan on the inside.
Raikov is trying to drag Daan to the mat but Daan just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Levi Daan has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ivan Raikov.
Raikov misses with a punch to the body. #T2#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Raikov tries for a takedown. No joy.
Daan avoiding damage as Raikov throws knees to the body.
Daan lands a left hand.
A left hand lands to the body for Daan.
A shot in the inside from Daan.
Daan presses Raikov against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
A short uppercut from Daan.
The two fighters are working to gain dominance in the clinch.
Daan is working Raikov over against the cage.
Daan lands with a light punch inside.
A right handed body shot lands from Daan.
Daan lands a body shot in the clinch.
Still in the clinch, Daan scores with a nice short uppercut.
Daan lands a right hand.
Raikov tries to score a body lock takedown but Daan shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Daan misses with a shot to the kidneys. #T3#
Daan lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Daan is stalling here.
Daan lands a body shot in the clinch.
A nice left hand lands by Daan.
Daan lands with a left to the head.
Daan presses Raikov against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
A shot in the inside from Daan.
Daan lands a nice uppercut.#ROC#Raikov is rocked!
Daan throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Raikovs head.
Raikov is still on wobbly legs! Can Daan finish him?
Daan stalling.
Daan gets through Raikov's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Daan throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Raikovs head.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Daan lands an uppercut in the clinch that drops Raikov to his knees! Daan keeps firing more shots against his stricken opponent and the referee jumps in to save him!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:53 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Levi Daan!
During a confident post fight interview, Levi Daan thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

Event: APEX 5
Date: Oct 08, 2023

#R1#
Raikov misses with the combination.
It looked like Ryan wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Ivan Raikov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Raikov misses with a takedown attempt - Ryan sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Nice cross by Ryan.#CUT#It looks like Ivan Raikov has been cut.
Raikov looks to throw the jab but Ryan is out of range.
The fight stays on the outside here - Raikov looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
An attempted straight right counter from Ryan misses the target.
Raikov throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Ryan's waist but Ryan gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Raikov off to one side.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Raikov thows a left - swing and a miss!
Raikov has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Raikov there as he acknowledges the shot.
Ryan misses with a looping right.
Ryan cracks Raikov with a right hand to the side of the head.
Raikov tries to clinch up
and Ryan counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#ROC#Raikov is rocked!#T1#
Raikov looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Ryan is fending him off so far but Raikov persists. Nope, Ryan circles away and we're back to standing.
Gord Ryan has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ivan Raikov.
Raikov throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Ryan's waist but Ryan gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Raikov off to one side.
Raikov ducks under a wild hook from Ryan.
Ryan looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Ryan dodges the punch combination from Raikov.
Ryan moves out of range as Raikov strikes.
Raikov is trying hard to land a takedown here. Ryan sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Ryan throwing a counter right hand but Raikov manages to avoid it.
Raikov fails with the takedown
and Ryan counters with a huge overhand right that connects right on the temple, sending him crumpling, face first to the floor! This one is all over! What a knockout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:44 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Gord Ryan!
Gord Ryan is the new middleweight champion!
After winning the bout, Gord Ryan thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

Event: SMFL 23 - Riendeau v Raikov 3
Date: Sep 09, 2023

#R1#
Raikov is looking to clinch.
Raikov avoids the body shot from Riendeau.
Raikov is looking for the big counter here.
Riendeau is looking to clinch but Raikov is avoiding it.
Raikov is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Raikov takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.#CUT#It looks like Ivan Raikov has been cut.
Riendeau throws a sloppy body shot #TD2#
and Raikov counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Raikov.
Raikov trying to control but Riendeau is working from the bottom.
Riendeau is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.
Riendeau looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Raikov trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Raikov keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Riendeau's head.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Raikov trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Raikov engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Riendeau not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Riendeau might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Riendeau looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T1#
Raikov is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Raikov slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Riendeau wants to control but Raikov postures up.
Riendeau knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Raikov on the ground.
Raikov trying to control the action but Riendeau is working from the bottom.
Riendeau is looking for a sweep.
Riendeau stops Raikov from passing to mount. #SUB2#
Raikov looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Riendeau is looking to regain half guard here but Raikov keeps moving and retains side control. #T2#
Riendeau is in a tricky position. We've heard reports from his gym mates at Ludus Magnus that he's been drilling escapes, so let's see if he can get back to his feet.#SUB2#
Raikov is trying to get an arm triangle but Riendeau is defending well.
Riendeau is trying to escape the position but Raikov is controlling the position.
Riendeau on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Riendeau tries to get out of the position.
Riendeau is not content to let Raikov control the position.
Riendeau tries to improve position but can't.
Riendeau prevents Raikov from moving into mount.
Riendeau tries to improve position but can't.
Raikov works to advance to full mount. Riendeau defends for a few seconds but eventually he succumbs.
Raikov lands a big elbow.
Riendeau tries to lock up and control but Raikov gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Raikov can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Riendeau is looking to escape. #T3#
Raikov forces the positional change into back control.
The crowd hopeful of a finish here - Raikov's supporters are on their feet, screaming for him to go for the rear naked choke. #SUB2#
Raikov patiently working for the choke. Which fighter will keep their nerve here?#SUB2#
Raikov is cranking Riendeau's head sideways - that looks painful. He's managed to get his other arm under the chin and this looks bad for Riendeau! He's tightened the choke and Riendeau is tapping out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:41 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Ivan Raikov!
Ivan Raikov is the new middleweight champion!
Ivan Raikov thanked the fans post fight for their support.

Event: SMFL 20 - Suomi Vahva
Date: Jul 29, 2023

#R1#
Riendeau tries to clinch there but Raikov circles away.
Riendeau misses with a wild body shot. #CL2#
Riendeau rushes Raikov and presses him up against the cage.
Riendeau misses with some punches.
Both fighters working to control the clinch.
Riendeau digs a right hand into Raikov's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Raikov's gas tank.
Raikov taking a breather.
Riendeau prevents a takedown attempt there.
Riendeau lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Raikov or not.
Riendeau misses with a punch to the body.
A battle for position here, against the cage.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Riendeau.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Raikov wants to stall.
Raikov blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Riendeau swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Raikov looking to slow down the pace here.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Raikov.
The two fighters are working to gain dominance in the clinch. #T1#
Raikov blocks a body shot from Riendeau.
The referee calls for Raikov to work.
Raikov taking a breather.
The ref breaks the fighters up, due to lack of action by Ivan Raikov.
Riendeau fails with an attempt to clinch.
Raikov fails with the takedown
and Riendeau counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.#CUT2#It looks like Ivan Raikov has been cut.
Raikov takes a shot to the body in his stride. #CL2#
Riendeau forces Raikov back against the cage and clinches.
Raikov just leaning against Riendeau, taking a breather.
Raikov tries for a takedown. No joy.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ivan Raikov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Riendeau misses with a punch to the body.
A battle for position here, against the cage.
Riendeau working aggressively here.
We've been hearing reports that Raikov has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Raikov blocking some punches.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Raikov.
Raikov trying to control the position but instead, Riendeau has worked for underhooks and has pushed Raikov into the cage.
Raikov taking a breather. #T2#
Riendeau being controlled against the cage.
Riendeau being controlled against the cage.
Raikov seems to have come into the fight with the intention of avoiding any damage in the clinch, rather than actually showing any aggression.
The ref breaks the fighters up, due to lack of action by Ivan Raikov.
Riendeau swings for the body but Raikov moves out of range. #CL2#
Riendeau forces Raikov back against the cage and clinches.
Raikov blocks an uppercut.
The pace really dropping off here, momentarily.
Raikov is trying to maintain a safe position but Riendeau gets an underhook and turns Raikov into the cage.
A short right from Riendeau on the inside.
Riendeau can't find room to land a body shot as Raikov controls the action.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
A right handed body shot lands from Riendeau.
Raikov is breathing heavily.
Riendeau stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Riendeau gets through Raikov's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
A short left from Riendeau.
Riendeau tries to work over Raikov's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Riendeau lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Raikov backwards.
Raikov drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it. #T3#
Riendeau misses with a short punch on the inside.
Riendeau lands a nice uppercut.
Riendeau swings wildly with an uppercut but Raikov uses good head movement to avoid it.
Raikov trying to control the position but instead, Riendeau has worked for underhooks and has pushed Raikov into the cage.
Nice body punch from Riendeau.
Riendeau misses with some punches.
We've been informed that Riendeau has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Raikov.
Raikov is looking to control Riendeau's arms but Riendeau gets an underhook and turns him. Now Raikov has his back to the cage.
Riendeau tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Raikov wants to stall.
A battle for position here, against the cage.
Still in the clinch, Riendeau scores with a nice short uppercut.
A nice right hand lands inside from Riendeau.
Riendeau misses with a hook from the clinch. #T4#
Raikov has Riendeau pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Riendeau manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Riendeau tries a body shot but Raikov blocks it.
Nice body punch from Riendeau - that landed with a thud.
Riendeau tries to work over Raikov's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Nice body punch from Riendeau.
A right hook to the body lands for Riendeau.
Riendeau lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Riendeau lands with a left to the head.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Riendeau throws a head punch that misses.
Riendeau lands a hook that snaps the head of Raikov backwards.
A real battle for position is taking place between these two warriors.
Raikov stalling in the clinch but Riendeau improves position.
Riendeau working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Riendeau scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Raikov tries to stall but Riendeau uses the opportunity to gain a better position.
Raikov blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Riendeau is pressed up against the cage. Raikov has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Riendeau down to the mat. Riendeau avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance. #CL2#
Riendeau drives through and clinches with Raikov against the cage.
Riendeau lands an uppercut.
Riendeau tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Raikov blocks a punch to the side of the head.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Eric Riendeau dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ivan Raikov's cut.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R2##CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Eric Riendeau seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
Riendeau swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Riendeau misses with a shot to the kidneys.
A head punch on the inside from Riendeau fails to land.
Raikov is pushing Riendeau up against the cage, for a bit of lean and pray action. Action being used the in the loosest possible sense of the word.
Raikov tries for a takedown but Riendeau manages to get underhooks.
Riendeau prevents a takedown attempt there.
Riendeau working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Riendeau lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Riendeau throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Raikovs head.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Both guys are working to get underhooks.
Riendeau lands with a light punch inside.
Riendeau goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Nice body punch from Riendeau - that landed with a thud.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Raikov tries for a takedown but Riendeau manages to get underhooks.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ivan Raikov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Riendeau works on Raikov's body with a couple of short punches.
Riendeau works on Raikov's body with a couple of short punches.
Riendeau scores with a shoulder strike. #T1#
Riendeau lands a shot to the body.
Riendeau goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Riendeau throws a punch but it's blocked by Raikov.
Riendeau lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Riendeau tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Nice body punch from Riendeau - that landed with a thud.
Riendeau has a couple of punches blocked by Raikov.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Riendeau.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Riendeau creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
A nice left hand lands by Riendeau.
Raikov is trying to stall.
Riendeau presses Raikov against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Raikov blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Riendeau lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Raikov backwards.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Riendeau as Raikov tries to tie him up.
Riendeau lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Still in the clinch, Riendeau scores with a nice short uppercut.
Riendeau scores with a shoulder strike. #T2#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Riendeau lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Riendeau lands a body shot.
A right hook to the body lands for Riendeau.
Riendeau lands a hook to the side of the head.
Riendeau lands a hook to the side of the head.#ROC2#Raikov is rocked!
Riendeau working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Oh Raikov is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
A nice left hand lands by Riendeau.
Riendeau lands an uppercut in the clinch that drops Raikov to his knees! Riendeau keeps firing more shots against his stricken opponent and the referee jumps in to save him!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:29 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Eric Riendeau!
Eric Riendeau is the new middleweight champion!
After the fight, Eric Riendeau was humble in paying tribute to his opponent but made it clear he wants to go on to bigger and better things. It seemed to go down well with the crowd who cheered him loudly.

Event: SMFL 18 - Raikov vs. Solomon
Date: Jul 01, 2023

#R1##CL#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Raikov's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Nice body punch from Solomon - that landed with a thud.
Solomon gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Raikov.
Solomon throws a punch but it's blocked by Raikov.
Raikov has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Solomon after a bit of a struggle.
Raikov blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Raikov is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Solomon is keeping busy.#BC2#
Solomon escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Solomon misses with a two punch combination.
Solomon misses with a lunging right hand #TD#
and Raikov counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Solomon working a defensive guard here.
Solomon keeping full guard, as Raikov tries to pass. #T1#
Solomon wants to sweep here but Raikov controlling him for the moment.
Raikov forces his way into half guard.#SUB#
Solomon is defending against the submission attempts here by Raikov.
Raikov trying to pass the guard but Solomon defending well.
Solomon is looking for a sweep. Raikov is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Solomon is looking to control Raikov's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Solomon avoid being mounted?
Raikov tries to pass the half guard into mount. Solomon knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
We've been hearing good reports from Raikov's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.#SUB#
Raikov is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Solomon sees it coming and defends easily.#SUB#
Raikov is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Solomon defends it well. #T2#
Raikov tries to pass the half guard into mount. Solomon knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Solomon tries to kick Raikov off but Raikov keeps his base steady and stays in half guard. #SUB#
Raikov is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Solomon doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Raikov.
Solomon wants to control but Raikov is keeping busy.
Raikov tries to pass to full mount but Solomon defends it. #SUB#
Raikov is looking for a kimura here.
Solomon desperately trying to maintain half guard.
Raikov wants to pass the guard but Solomon is defending well. #T3##SUB#
Raikov is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Solomon has managed to free his arm - good work.
Raikov prevents Solomon from improving his position.
Raikov trying to pass the guard but Solomon defending well.
Solomon manages to get to full guard.
Solomon is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Raikov throwing strikes from guard but Solomon blocks nicely.
Raikov stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Solomon swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Raikov advances to half guard.
Solomon controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.
Raikov looking to pass the half guard. Not this time. #T4#
Raikov prevents Solomon from standing back up.
Solomon 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.
Solomon is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Solomon is trying to maintain the position but Raikov is very close to passing his half guard.
Raikov moves nicely into side control.
Raikov tries to advance to mount but can't.
Solomon is looking for a sweep.#SUB#
Raikov thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Raikov tries to advance to mount but can't.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Solomon wants to control but Raikov postures up.
Solomon is looking to reverse the position.
You can see the frustration on Solomon's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ivan Raikov 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#
Solomon throws out a loose jab but Raikov uses good head movement to avoid it.
Solomon throws a hook but Raikov blocks it.
Raikov half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Raikov changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Solomon tries to avoid it but Raikov manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Solomon to the ground. Solomon escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Solomon connects with a jab.
Raikov is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Solomon can do to turn this around?
Solomon throws an ugly left hook that misses #CL#
and Raikov counters into the clinch. Nicely done.
Solomon tries to throw a body punch but Raikov avoids it by throwing Solomon back against the cage. #TD#
Solomon is fighting off a takedown attempt but Raikov is just too persistent for him and manages to trip Solomon to the mat. Solomon regains guard as soon as the fighters hit the mat.
Solomon is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Solomon is on top in guard. #REVB#
Solomon trying to control the position from guard on top but Raikov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Raikov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Solomon is one step ahead there.
Raikov is working hard here to advance position.
Solomon trying to control but Raikov is working from the bottom. #T1#
Solomon wants to get up but he can't break Raikov's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.
Raikov tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Raikov manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Solomon manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
Ivan Raikov overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Solomon controls Raikov momentarily but Raikov frees himself.
Raikov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Solomon is keeping the position for now.
Solomon manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Raikov manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
Solomon trying to control the position from guard on top but Raikov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB#
Solomon got a little sloppy there for a moment and Raikov has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Solomon has managed to get both his arms back between Raikov's legs - danger averted.
Raikov 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##T2#
Raikov frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Solomon is desperately trying to improve his position but Raikov has a good base and remains in mount.
Raikov wants to take Solomon's back here but Solomon is holding on to an arm, himself looking to escape.
Solomon sneaks a leg under to get to half guard.#SUB#
Raikov wants to work for an arm triangle but Solomon is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Solomon is trying to get back to full guard.
Solomon trying to control but Raikov postures up.
Solomon won't allow Raikov to pass to mount. #T3##SUB#
Raikov is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Solomon is just riding it out for now. Raikov eventually gives up the hold. #SUB#
Raikov is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Solomon defends it well. #SUB#
Raikov is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
Raikov wants to pass the guard but Solomon is defending well.
Solomon is looking to improve his position.
Solomon trying to hold on to Raikov's head to control him but Raikov postures up.
Solomon holds on for dear life, maintaining half guard for now. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Raikov tries to pass the half guard into mount. Solomon knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Raikov frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Raikov fails to move to back control.
Solomon is desperately trying to improve his position but Raikov has a good base and remains in mount.
Solomon is still trying to improve position.#SUB#
Raikov with some aggressive grappling here. He's looking for submissions here, rather than waiting for the opportunity to counter.
Raikov seems to be looking to move to his opponent's back but Solomon is holding on tight.
Solomon regains half guard.
Raikov is pressing down on Solomon's thigh, looking to free his foot. Solomon is holding on for now.
The fighters are battling for position here. Solomon manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ivan Raikov dominated that second round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R3#
Solomon throws a lazy right hand but Raikov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Raikov dives in for a single leg takedown but Solomon sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Solomon pressing his opponent against the cage.
Solomon lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Solomon wants to get back to striking at distance but Raikov won't allow it.
Solomon tries to work over Raikov's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Raikov changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Solomon fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Solomon moves out of range of the body kick from Raikov.
Raikov fails with a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ivan Raikov. 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.
Raikov's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Solomon connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Raikov scrambles back to his feet.#CUT2#It looks like Ivan Raikov has been cut.
Solomon smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Solomon lands a body shot. #T1#
Solomon jabs Raikov to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Solomon misses with an uppercut. Raikov saw that one coming.
A slow jab from Solomon misses its intended target.
No luck for Raikov with that takedown attempt.
A countering left hand to the body from Solomon misses.
Solomon lands a jab to the head.
Solomon getting the better of the striking in that exchange.#TD#
Raikov closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Raikov tries to advance to mount but Solomon denies him. #SUB#
Raikov is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Solomon has escaped the position, nice work there.
Solomon is looking to reverse the position.#T2#
Solomon is trying to escape and get back to his feet.
Solomon prevents Raikov from improving position.
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!
Solomon manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Solomon wants to control but Raikov is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Raikov tries to pass the half guard into mount. Solomon knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Raikov passes to side control. #SUB#
Raikov tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Raikov has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Solomon tries to bench press Raikov off him but Raikov keeps the position.
Solomon gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there!
Solomon is desperately trying to improve his position but Raikov has a good base and remains in mount.
Solomon keeps trying to improve his position.
Both fighters have adopted an aggressive gameplan on the ground!
Raikov fails to take his opponent's back. #T3#
Raikov moves to the back position. #SUB#
Raikov is working hard for the rear naked choke here.
Solomon wants to get back to his feet.
Raikov not allowing Solomon to control his hands. #SUB#
Raikov has his hand under the chin of his opponent looking for the choke. He's nearly got it! This one could be all over! But no, Solomon has freed his hand and lives to survive another… well, another couple of seconds at least! #SUB#
Raikov is staying calm and holding on to the back position, whilst working on a rear naked choke. Solomon is defending well though. Raikov let's go of the attempt for now.
Solomon is really stuck here. #SUB#
Raikov is working for the rear naked choke. He has one arm under the chin but Solomon has hold of the other arm. A bit of a stalemate here.
Solomon tries to break free. #T4#
Solomon is trying to get back to his feet but he's not managed it yet. #SUB#
Raikov looking for the choke but no joy. #SUB#
Raikov is working hard for the rear naked choke here.
Solomon is in a world of trouble here. He's outmatched on the ground here and he'd better get Raikov off his back sharpish unless he wants to be submitted.#SUB#
Raikov has his hand under the chin of his opponent looking for the choke. He's nearly got it! This one could be all over! But no, Solomon has freed his hand and lives to survive another… well, another couple of seconds at least! #SUB#
Raikov is looking to finish the fight by rear naked choke. Solomon knows exactly what he's got planned though, so he's defending well. Maybe a few strikes would soften Solomon for a finish.
Solomon is trying to stand back up. #SUB#
Raikov working for a choke but Solomon is defending well.
Solomon rolls and manages to get back to half guard. Nicely done.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close third round but Ben Solomon just about did enough to take it.
The cut man is working on Ivan Raikov's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R4#
No luck for Raikov with that takedown attempt.
Raikov uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Solomon.
Raikov throws a jab when Solomon was well out of range.
Solomon swings and misses with a hook to the body. #TD#
Raikov throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Solomon tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Raikov is in Solomon's guard.
Solomon manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Raikov manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
Raikov lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR#
Solomon tries to land a sweep but no joy.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Solomon seems keen to control Raikov's posture.
Raikov wants to pass the guard but Solomon is keeping the position.#T1#
Raikov advances to half guard.
Solomon is looking for a sweep. Raikov is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Raikov missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Solomon moves into full guard.
Raikov sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Solomon's guard.
Raikov wants to pass the guard but Solomon is defending well.
Solomon wants to improve his position but Raikov is controlling well.
Raikov trying to mount his opponent but Solomon defends it.
Solomon keeping hold of Raikov's head, controlling as best he can.
Solomon won't allow Raikov to pass to mount. #T2#
Solomon is in trouble now - Raikov has advanced to mount!
Solomon is wriggling around trying to escape.
Raikov moves to the back. #SUB#
Raikov looking for the rear naked choke. And he's got it! Solomon taps!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:42 of round 4, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Ivan Raikov!
Ivan Raikov retains his middleweight title!
After winning the bout, Ivan Raikov thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

Event: SMFL 15 - Chretien vs. Raikov
Date: May 20, 2023

#R1##CL#
Raikov gets tackled into the cage by Riendeau. Riendeau maintains the clinch.
Raikov has Riendeau pressed against the cage.
Riendeau lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards. #CUT#It looks like Ivan Raikov has been cut.
Riendeau is pressed up against the cage. Raikov has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Riendeau down to the mat. Riendeau avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance. #CL2#
Raikov clinches up against the cage.
Riendeau being controlled against the cage.
Riendeau letting Raikov take a breather here.
Riendeau working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Raikov changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Riendeau fights it off and pushes away nicely. #CL#
Riendeau closes the distance and clinches.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A nice left hand lands by Riendeau.
Raikov blocks an uppercut.
Riendeau throws a punch but it's blocked by Raikov.
Raikov leaning against his opponent.
Raikov looking to stall.
Raikov wants to stall. #T1##TD2#
Raikov has picked Riendeau up - he's going for a ride! Raikov dumps his opponent to the mat with a thud and settles into half guard.
Riendeau on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Riendeau tries to get out of the position.
Raikov looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Raikov prevents Riendeau from improving his position.#SUB2#
Raikov is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Riendeau doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Raikov.
Riendeau tries to get to full guard but Raikov has control of the leg.
Raikov has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Raikov avoids the attempt from Riendeau to control.#SUB2#
Raikov is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Riendeau can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.
Raikov pushing the pace here, looking to move to his opponents back and work for a finish. #T2#
Raikov moves to his opponent's back but Riendeau bucks him off and ends up in guard. A bit of a disaster there for Raikov.
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#
Raikov is looking to cinch up a triangle. Riendeau throws the leg off to one side though and gets in tight to Raikov's body to avoid the submission. Raikov has instead reached around Riendeau's neck and now has a guillotine! Oh, this is biiiig trouble! Raikov arches his back and squeezes and forces the tap from his hapless opponent.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:40 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Ivan Raikov!
Ivan Raikov is the new middleweight champion!
Ivan Raikov decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: SMFL 10 - The Arrival
Date: Mar 11, 2023

#R1#
Tae wants to clinch#TD2#
and Raikov counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Tae is looking to control Raikov's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Tae avoid being mounted?#SUB#
Tae is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Raikov pulls his head out easily.
Raikov trying to pass the guard but Tae defending well. #SUB#
Tae looking for submissions off his back.
Raikov is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Raikov working for a guillotine from mount but Tae is in no mood to give up.
Tae's coaches at SYDNEY ELITE GYM have been working on his defensive grappling in preparation for this fight so let's see if he can get out of this tricky position.
Tae is working to get back to half guard.
Tae stops Raikov from taking his back. Still, being mounted isn't any better.
Raikov keeps trying to improve his position.#T1#
Tae has given up his back - I don’t know if this is a deliberate ploy to try and escape or if he is just struggling down there.
Raikov has the hooks in. Tae is trying to push off one leg but he has to do so cautiously to avoid being submitted.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Tae breaks Raikov's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard. #SUB2#
Raikov looking for a guillotine here but Tae defends easily.
Tae tries to free his leg and advance position but Raikov is retaining full guard.
Raikov tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Tae trying to control the position from guard on top but Raikov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SU#
Tae decides he's had enough of playing guard and decides to stand. Come on Raikov, up you get! #CL#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Tae misses with a knee strike. #T2#
Tae tries a knee to the head but he's missed.
Raikov is stalling here. The referee will be looking to step in if he doesn't pick up the pace. #TD2#
Raikov lands a nice trip takedown into half guard.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#SUB#
Tae looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Raikov passes to side control. #SUB2#
Raikov is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Tae has escaped the position, nice work there.
Raikov advances nicely into full mount.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Raikov with some aggressive grappling here. He's looking for submissions here, rather than waiting for the opportunity to counter. #SUB2#
Raikov has control of Tae's right arm, working for a kimura. It's a bit of a token attempt though and Tae regains control of the situation pretty easily.
Tae is working to get back to half guard.
My spies in The Jungle Room inform me that Raikov has been getting involved in the gym's BJJ sparring sessions. Let's see whether that pays dividends!#T3#
Tae wants to control but Raikov is having none of it.
Tae is desperately trying to improve his position but Raikov has a good base and remains in mount.
Raikov wants to take Tae's back here but Tae is holding on to an arm, himself looking to escape. #SUB2#
Tae is flailing around, obviously not happy about being mounted. Raikov locks hold of one of his arms and spins for an armbar. He's got it! Tae is forced to tap!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:49 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ivan Raikov!
An out of breath Ivan Raikov thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

Event: SMFL 7 - O'Brien vs. Hunt
Date: Jan 28, 2023

#R1#
Jankovic lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.#TD2#
Raikov gets a takedown into half guard.
Raikov wants to pass to mount but Jankovic is defending the position.
Raikov throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Jankovic moves into full guard.
Jankovic on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Jankovic tries to get out of the position.
Raikov 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.#T1#
Raikov stands and throws Jankovic's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Raikov tries to advance to mount but can't. #SUB2#
Raikov is trying to get an arm triangle but Jankovic is defending well.
Raikov advances to mount. #SUB2#
Raikov looking to secure an arm triangle but Jankovic defends it well.
Jankovic tries to reverse the position but Raikov maintains control.#T2#
Raikov fails to advance to Jankovic's back.
Jankovic suckers Raikov into throwing a sloppy strike and uses the momentum to reverse the position beautifully! Jankovic is now in Raikov's guard!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Jankovic stopping the sweep attempt from Raikov.
Raikov is still trying to improve position.#SUB2#
Raikov had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Jankovic defends it easily.#T3##SUB2#
Raikov is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Raikov tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Jankovic trying to control but Raikov is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Raikov had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Jankovic defends it easily.
Raikov manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Jankovic manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB##T4#
Raikov tries to free his leg and advance position but Jankovic is retaining full guard.
Jankovic has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Raikov slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Raikov works to advance to full mount. Jankovic defends for a few seconds but eventually he succumbs. #SUB2#
Raikov looking for a guillotine from mount but Jankovic is having none of it.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Raikov fails to advance to Jankovic's back.
Jankovic is trying to escape the mount.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ivan Raikov dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Jankovic just misses with a punch to the body.
Raikov tries to counter by closing the distance.
Jankovic lands with a kick to the ribs.
Jankovic keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.#TD2#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Jankovic enables Raikov to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Jankovic manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Raikov looking to pass the guard.
Raikov pushing down on Jankovic's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Raikov moves nicely into side control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Raikov thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Jankovic knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Raikov on the ground.#SUB2#
Raikov has worked his way into a potential kimura here. Jankovic is trying to get out of the position but his squirming has just got him deeper into trouble. Raikov yanks on the arm and Jankovic is forced to tap due to a very painful looking submission! Nice work by Raikov.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:57 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Ivan Raikov!
Ivan Raikov managed to slip a mention for his sponsors, BE Younick , into his post fight interview.

Event: SMFL 5
Date: Jan 01, 2023

#R1#
A big left from Bear misses.
Bear fails in his attempt to clinch.
Raikov misses with a wild combination. #CL#
Raikov closes the distance and clinches.
Raikov taking a breather.
Bear tries to circle away but Raikov has him pinned against the cage.#TD#
Raikov wants the takedown. Bear is fighting it off but Raikov persists and manages to bring the fight to the ground, ending up in Bear's guard against the cage.
Raikov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Bear is keeping the position for now. #SUB2#
Bear is looking for a triangle but Raikov pushes his legs off easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bear keeping full guard, as Raikov tries to pass. #SUB2#
Raikov is posturing up here but Bear has hold of an arm and he's gone for an armbar! Raikov tries to roll out but it's too tight and Raikov has to tap! Slick submission there by Bear!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Russian Bear!
Jumping up and down and very excited, Russian Bear waved his t-shirt featuring Un-Kaged Nutrition's logo in front of the cameras.

Event: Iron Fist Championship X
Date: Oct 03, 2022

#R1#
Raikov tries for a takedown but Cailean sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Cailean tries to score with a low kick but Raikov moves his leg out of the way.
Raikov half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Cailean's corner calls for a 1-2. Cailean obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
We've been hearing reports that Raikov has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Raikov looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
A combination from Cailean does no damage.
Raikov is looking to counter the offense by Cailean and move into the clinch.
Cailean lands a two punch combo. #CUT2#It looks like Ivan Raikov has been cut.
Cailean throws a lazy right hand but Raikov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Raikov throws a head kick but Cailean moves out of range.
Cailean avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Cailean misses with a body shot.
As Cailean tries to get set, Raikov tries to push him back and clinch up but Cailean manages to avoid the attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Raikov misses with a takedown attempt - Cailean sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ivan Raikov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Raikov slips under a jab from Cailean.
Axl Cailean seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Cailean looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Raikov tries to counter with a takedown but Cailean is quick to defend against it.
Raikov avoids the head kick by Cailean.
Cailean lands a body shot. #T1#
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Cailean.
Raikov tries to close the distance and clinch but Cailean swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Cailean scores with a three punch combo!
Cailean throws a head kick that looked like it stung.
Raikov takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie.
A low kick lands for Cailean.
A chopping leg kick lands by Cailean.
Axl Cailean is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Cailean swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Raikov has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Cailean.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Cailean.
Raikov moves out of range of the body kick from Cailean.
Raikov throws a front kick aimed at Cailean's knee but Cailean avoids it well.
Cailean appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
The fighters circling - Cailean throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Cailean attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Raikov throws a low kick, looking for Cailean's leg but Cailean calmly moves out of range. #T2#
Raikov blocks a jab.
Raikov is trying to close the distance and clinch up, after that failed offence from Cailean.
Nice uppercut there from Cailean.
Cailean throws a body kick, spinning off balance#TD#
and Raikov counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Raikov tries to free his leg and advance position but Cailean is retaining full guard.
Cailean is pulling down on Raikov's head. It's preventing any offense from Raikov, at least for the moment.
Raikov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Cailean is keeping the position for now.
Raikov passes Cailean's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Raikov tries to pass the half guard into mount. Cailean knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Cailean is looking to improve his position.
Raikov tries to pass to full mount but Cailean defends it.
Cailean felt the need to train up his defensive grappling in the buildup to the fight. Presumably he was expecting to be in a difficult position like this, so let's see if he can get out of it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T3##SUB#
Raikov is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Cailean sees it coming and defends easily.
Cailean trying to control from the bottom. #SUB2#
Cailean looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB#
Raikov wants to work for an arm triangle but Cailean is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Raikov looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Cailean is in trouble now - Raikov has advanced to mount!
Raikov with some aggressive grappling here, looking for the finish.
Cailean holds on for dear life, controlling Raikov's posture momentarily. #T4#
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Raikov wants to take his opponent's back but Cailean doesn't allow it. #SUB#
Raikov has hold of Cailean's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and Cailean manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger.
Cailean is trying to escape the mount.
Cailean has given up his back here. Will Raikov look for the submission or keep pounding away?
Cailean turns into Raikov and is now in his guard.
Cailean not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Raikov 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.#T5#
Raikov lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR##SUB2#
Raikov got a little sloppy there for a moment and Cailean has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Raikov has managed to get both his arms back between Cailean's legs - danger averted.
Raikov stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Cailean swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Cailean is controlling Raikov's posture.
Raikov prevents Cailean from getting back to his feet.
Raikov stopping the sweep attempt from Cailean.
Cailean keeps trying to improve his position.
Raikov looking to pass the guard. #T6#
Raikov sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Cailean's guard.
Raikov is looking for the mount but instead finds himself back in full guard.
Cailean working a defensive guard here. #SUB#
Raikov drops back looking for a heel hook - he quickly realises he's not going to get it but Cailean manages to dive on top of him before he can escape and now Raikov has Cailean in his guard.#REVB#
Cailean trying to control but Raikov is working from the bottom.
Raikov can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cailean controls the pace.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Raikov is on top in guard. #REVR##T7#
Raikov stands and throws Cailean's legs to the side, diving into side control. #SUB#
Raikov is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Cailean knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Cailean gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there!
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Raikov goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Cailean turns into him and now he's in Raikov's guard.
Cailean won't allow Raikov to sweep him here. #T8#
Cailean engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Raikov looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #SUB#
Raikov is looking for a triangle here but Cailean uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Raikov gets back to half guard.
Raikov wants to get back to full guard.
Cailean is looking to advance position but Raikov won't allow it. #SUB2#
Cailean is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there. #T9#
Raikov manages to get to full guard.
Raikov looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #SUB#
Raikov is looking for a triangle but Cailean pushes his legs off easily.
Cailean 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.
Raikov looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Cailean is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Cailean trying to control the position from guard on top but Raikov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Axl Cailean dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ivan Raikov's cut.
That's time! Raikov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R2#
Cailean throws a right and a left that both miss.
Cailean pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Raikov checks a low kick from Cailean.
No joy there for Cailean, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Raikov tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Cailean wants to land a leg kick but Raikov is out of range.
Cailean scores with a crisp jab that stopped Raikov in his tracks.
Cailean moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Cailean throws a hook but Raikov blocks it.
Cailean throws a right hand that misses #CL#
and Raikov counters by moving into the clinch. Good anticipation by Raikov.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Raikov is looking to control Cailean's arms but Cailean gets an underhook and turns him. Now Raikov has his back to the cage. #TD#
Raikov gets a trip takedown into half guard.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Cailean trying to hold on to Raikov's head to control him but Raikov postures up.
Raikov wants to pass the guard but Cailean is defending well.
Cailean has his hands clasped together around Raikov's back. He's all about the action.#T1#
Raikov trying to mount his opponent but Cailean defends it.
Cailean has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#SUB#
Raikov seems to be working for a kimura but Cailean defends the submission attempt.
Raikov is looking to advance position but Cailean won't allow it.
Raikov is working hard here to advance position.#T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Cailean controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.
Raikov is pressing down on Cailean's thigh, looking to free his foot. Cailean is holding on for now.
Cailean is looking to control Raikov's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Cailean avoid being mounted?#SUB#
Raikov is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Cailean sees it coming and defends easily.
Cailean is controlling Raikov's trapped leg to prevent Raikov from advancing to side control.
Cailean trying to control here. #SUB#
Raikov is looking for a kimura here. #T3##SUB#
Raikov is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Cailean doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Raikov. #SUB#
Raikov is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Raikov tries to pass to full mount but Cailean defends it. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.#SUB#
Raikov wants to work for an arm triangle but Cailean is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Cailean gets full guard.
Raikov looking to pass the guard.
Cailean trying to keep a closed guard but Raikov is proving a slippery customer.
Cailean trying to control the position here. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Nice sprawl there from Cailean as Raikov shoots in.
Raikov backing away here, and Cailean unleashes a leg kick that just misses.#T5#
Cailean misses the shot to the body.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Cailean 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 Raikov has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Raikov and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Raikov tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Ivan Raikov is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Raikov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Cailean was well out of range. Poor timing from Raikov.
Cailean connects with a solid leg kick.
Cailean fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Raikov.
Cailean scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Cailean is looking to score with low kicks.
Raikov will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Cailean throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Cailean lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Cailean misses with a body shot.
Cailean cracks a nice hook into Raikov's ribs.
Raikov swinging wildly here. #T6#
Cailean tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Raikov manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Cailean lands with a good body shot.
Axl Cailean seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Raikov fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ivan Raikov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Cailean lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
A jab from Cailean does it's job there.#CL2#
Cailean closes the distance and clinches.
Cailean fails to pull the fight into his guard. #TD2#
Cailean gets control of Raikov's arms and successfully pulls guard. Cailean will no doubt be looking for submissions off his back.
Raikov looking to pass the guard.
Ivan Raikov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T7#
Raikov slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.#SUB#
Raikov tries for a kimura but Cailean is defending well. #SUB#
Raikov swings around for an armbar but Cailean sees it coming a mile off and turns beautifully into Raikov's guard.
Raikov wants to sweep but no luck.
Cailean 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.
Raikov bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Cailean's guard. #REVR#
Ivan Raikov overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Cailean is trying to keep Raikov in close.
Raikov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Cailean is keeping the position for now. #T8#
Raikov passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Axl Cailean is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Cailean is trying to control Raikov's posture but Raikov avoids it. #SUB#
Raikov looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything. #SUB#
Raikov is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Cailean is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now. #T9##SUB#
Raikov wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Cailean, who protects the arm well.
Cailean stops Raikov from passing to mount.
Cailean wants to control but Raikov postures up.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cailean avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Raikov.
Raikov tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
Raikov throws a strike aimed at the side of Cailean's head but Cailean avoids it well.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Axl Cailean.
I think Cailean 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 2 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Vladimir Khabensky scores the fight 18:20
Judge Valeri Chadov scores the fight 18:20
Judge Sergei Dronov scores the fight 18:20

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Axl Cailean!
Axl Cailean is the new middleweight champion!

Event: Iron Fist Nippon Series 09/03
Date: Sep 03, 2022

#R1##CL#
Raikov closes the distance and pushes Romero back into the cage.#TD#
Raikov gets double underhooks and manages to take the fight to the ground.
Romero really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Raikov. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Raikov looking to pass the guard.
Raikov advances to half guard.
Romero is looking for a sweep. Raikov is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#SUB#
Raikov is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Romero is just riding it out for now. Raikov eventually gives up the hold.
Raikov wants to pass to mount but Romero is defending the position. #SUB#
Romero is defending against the submission attempts here by Raikov.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Raikov trying to pass the guard but Romero defending well.
Raikov is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount! #T1#
Raikov avoids the attempt from Romero to control.
Raikov moves to the back. #SUB#
Raikov looking for the choke from the back. #SUB#
Raikov is persistently looking for the submission but Romero is defending it well. #SUB#
Raikov is looking for a rear naked choke here but Romero reverses the position brilliantly into Raikov's guard!
Raikov throws some sloppy strikes off his back.
Raikov manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Romero manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Romero is pulling down on Raikov's head to control his posture. #T2#
Raikov slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.#SUB#
Raikov is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Romero is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now. #SUB#
Raikov is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Romero knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Raikov moves into full mount!
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Romero can do anything to dispel that myth.
Raikov fails to move to back control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Raikov looking for a guillotine from mount but Romero is having none of it.
Romero has given up his back. #T3##SUB#
Raikov is working the back position looking for the choke. Oh, he's slid into an armbar! Beautiful transition and Romero taps out! Fantastic Jiu Jitsu from Raikov.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ivan Raikov!
Ivan Raikov is the new middleweight champion!
Ivan Raikov took to the microphone after his victory and thanked his sponsors, BE Younick for their support in the buildup to the fight.

Event: TR69
Date: Jun 11, 2022

#R1#
Raikov misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Jab, jab by Rawlins - just one landing. #TD#
Raikov closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard. #SUB#
Raikov is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Rawlins has managed to free his arm - good work. #SUB#
Raikov is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Rawlins has managed to free his arm - good work.
Raikov trying to mount his opponent but Rawlins defends it.
Raikov uses his free foot to push down on Rawlins's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Rawlins.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Rawlins flailing away with punches but nothing is landing.
Rawlins gets back to half guard.
Raikov moves into full mount! Rawlins won't be happy about that! #SUB#
Rawlins defends a decent attempt at a guillotine from Raikov.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Raikov misses with a head shot.#T1#
Raikov moves to back control.
I really don't envy Rawlins right now.
Raikov misses with a punch to the head.
Raikov avoiding Rawlins 's attempts to control his hands. #SUB#
Rawlins defends a rear naked choke attempt by controlling one of Raikov's arms. #SUB#
Raikov tightening his grip on Rawlins, looking for the choke. #SUB#
Raikov working for a choke but Rawlins is defending well.
Rawlins is defending well here and trying to improve his position.
Rawlins is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.#T2#
Rawlins turns into Raikov and is now in his guard.
Rawlins trying to control but Raikov is working from the bottom.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Raikov wants to sweep here but Rawlins controlling him for the moment. #SUB#
Raikov escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Rawlins gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Raikov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Rawlins is one step ahead there.
Raikov has momentary wrist control but Rawlins slips an elbow through the middle.
Raikov on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Raikov tries to get out of the position.
Rawlins trying to control but Raikov is working from the bottom. #T3#
Raikov looking for a sweep. Not yet Raikov, not yet.
Raikov wants to improve his position but instead Rawlins has moved into half guard.
Raikov is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Rawlins seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Raikov does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Raikov slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Raikov wants to sweep here but Rawlins controlling him for the moment. #T4#
Rawlins makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Rawlins looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Raikov might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Rawlins trying to control but Raikov is working from the bottom.
Raikov 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.
Raikov bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Rawlins's guard. #REVR#
Raikov trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #SUB#
Raikov postures up as if he's going to throw some strikes but drops back for an ankle! Rawlins is in big trouble! He looks ready to tap! But no, he's escaped and dives on top of Raikov, into his guard. #REVB#
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Rawlins's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Raikov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Rawlins is one step ahead there.
Rawlins trying to control the position from guard on top but Raikov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ivan Raikov dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Raikov is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight. #TD#
Raikov closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Rawlins did well to prevent Raikov getting side control.#SUB#
Raikov is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Raikov wants to free his trapped foot but Rawlins is holding on for dear life with his legs. #SUB2#
Rawlins looking for submissions off his back.
Raikov is pressing down on Rawlins's thigh, looking to free his foot. Rawlins is holding on for now.
Raikov is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Rawlins can do to turn this around?
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Raikov is working for a kimura here but Rawlins manages to reverse the position and he's now in Raikov's guard. #T1#
Raikov tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Rawlins trying to control but Raikov is working from the bottom.
Rawlins passes Raikov's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Raikov gets full guard.#SUB#
Raikov is looking to cinch up a triangle. Rawlins throws the leg off to one side though and gets in tight to Raikov's body to avoid the submission. Raikov has instead reached around Rawlins's neck and now has a guillotine! Oh, this is biiiig trouble! Raikov arches his back and squeezes and forces the tap from his hapless opponent.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:41 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Ivan Raikov!

Event: TR57: Ojo V Vollan
Date: May 11, 2022

#R1#
Raikov shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Lightning sprawls well. Lightning wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Raikov gets slowly back to his feet.#CL#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Raikov wants a takedown.
Raikov is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Lightning pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Sindicious Lightning has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ivan Raikov.
Lightning prevents a takedown attempt there.
Lightning lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Lightning prevents a takedown attempt there.
Lightning prevents the takedown attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Raikov letting Lightning take a breather here.
Lightning gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Raikov.
Lightning stops a takedown attempt from Raikov. #T1#
Lightning stalls.
Lightning lands an elbow inside that Raikov shrugs off. #CUT#It looks like Ivan Raikov has been cut.
Raikov is looking for a takedown.
Raikov has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Lightning is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
Lightning definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Lightning is pushing Raikov up against the cage, for a bit of lean and pray action. Action being used the in the loosest possible sense of the word.
Lightning lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Lightning scores with a shot to the side of Raikov's head.
Lightning prevents a takedown attempt there.
Raikov tries for a takedown. No joy.
Raikov being controlled against the cage.
Lightning stops a takedown attempt from Raikov. #T2#
Lightning is pressed up against the cage. Raikov has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Lightning down to the mat. Lightning avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Raikov dives in for a single leg takedown but Lightning sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Lightning tries to close the distance and clinch but Raikov swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
And Raikov tries to counter it with a takedown but Lightning pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Raikov swats away the attempt to clinch by Lightning.#CL#
Lightning closes the distance and clinches.
Lightning lands a left hand.
Lightning lands with a left to the head.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Raikov tries to score a body lock takedown but Lightning shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Raikov drops down looking for an ankle pick but Lightning pulls his leg out and moves away.
Lightning tries to clinch up.
Lightning doesn't manage to clinch there - Raikov circles away. #CL#
Lightning drives through and clinches with Raikov against the cage.
Lightning gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Raikov.
Raikov drops down looking for an ankle pick but Lightning pulls his leg out and moves away. #CL#
Lightning moves into the clinch successfully. #T3#
Raikov goes for a takedown in the clinch but Lightning prevents it.
Raikov has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Lightning is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
Lightning has Raikov pushed against the cage.
Raikov is looking for a takedown.
Lightning scores with a knee to the head.
Lightning gets underhooks to prevent Raikov's takedown attempt.
Raikov looks winded!
Lightning putting his Muay Thai to good use. He has Raikov in a tight clinch and is doing some damage with knees to the body.
Raikov is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Lightning pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Lightning just leaning against Raikov, taking a breather.
Lightning lands a shot to the body.
The referee calls for Lightning to work.
Lightning is pressed up against the cage. Raikov has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Lightning down to the mat. Lightning avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Lightning is looking to clinch but Raikov is avoiding it.
Raikov looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Lightning is fending him off so far but Raikov persists. Nope, Lightning circles away and we're back to standing.#CL#
Lightning instigates a clinch. #T4#
Lightning is stalling here.
Raikov letting Lightning take a breather here.
A short left from Lightning.
Raikov takes a knee right on the jaw! #CUT#That has opened up Ivan Raikov's cut even more.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
A right hand to the body from Lightning.
Lightning taking a break, stalling in the clinch.
Raikov tries to score a body lock takedown but Lightning shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Lightning scores with a shoulder strike.
Lightning stalling here - the referee won't stand for too much of that.
Raikov is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Lightning is defending well.
Raikov is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Lightning is defending well.
Lightning effectively controlling the action here.
Lightning stops a takedown attempt from Raikov.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Sindicious Lightning dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ivan Raikov's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Lightning fails in his attempt to clinch.
Raikov shoots for a double leg takedown but Lightning sprawls well. He's pushed Raikov's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Lightning tries to close the distance and clinch but Raikov swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away. #CL#
Lightning gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Raikov drops down looking for an ankle pick but Lightning pulls his leg out and moves away.
Raikov tries for a takedown but Lightning sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Sindicious Lightning has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ivan Raikov.#CL#
Lightning moves into range and clinches up with Raikov.
Raikov changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Lightning fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Lightning tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Raikov paws at him with a jab and circles away.#CL#
Lightning rushes Raikov and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Lightning scores with a knee to the head.
Raikov goes for a takedown attempt but Lightning pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
Lightning tries to clinch but Raikov is having none of it.
Lightning stuffs the takedown attempt from Raikov. Raikov gets slowly back to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Lightning tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Lightning moves in looking to clinch but Raikov pushes him off.
Raikov is breathing heavily.
Lightning stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Lightning wants it to stay on the feet.
Raikov shoots in for a double leg but Lightning sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Lightning stuffs the takedown attempt from Raikov. Raikov gets slowly back to his feet.
Lightning fails with an attempt to clinch. #T1#
Lightning defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Raikov.
Raikov swats away the attempt to clinch by Lightning.
Lightning wants to clinch.#CL#
Lightning instigates a clinch.
Lightning is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Lightning stalling in the clinch.
Lightning lands an elbow inside that Raikov shrugs off.
Lightning just leaning against Raikov, taking a breather.
Raikov takes an elbow to the temple.
Raikov changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Lightning fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Sindicious Lightning is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Lightning tries to close the distance and clinch but Raikov swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Raikov changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Raikov circles away from the clinch attempt.
Lightning tries to close the distance and clinch but Raikov swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Lightning tries to close the distance and clinch but Raikov swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Raikov swats away the attempt to clinch by Lightning.#T2#
Lightning tries to clinch but Raikov is having none of it. #CL#
Lightning drives through and clinches with Raikov against the cage.
Lightning taking a break, stalling in the clinch.
Raikov drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Some stalling of biblical proportions here from Lightning.
Raikov is looking to take this one to the mat.
The fighters are pressed against the cage, as the pace of the fight slows.
Lightning lands an uppercut.#CUT#The cut above Ivan Raikov's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Lightning scores with a nice hook to the head.
Lightning is stalling here.
Raikov wants to take the fight to the mat but Lightning manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
Raikov has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Lightning avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.#T3#
Lightning manages to get underhooks and slows down the pace for a moment.
A bit of stalling here from Lightning.
Lightning gets a warning from the ref for wasting time.
Raikov goes for a takedown in the clinch but Lightning prevents it.
Sindicious Lightning has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Raikov is looking for a takedown.
The two fighters are working to gain dominance in the clinch.
The ref breaks the fighters up, due to lack of action by Sindicious Lightning.
Lightning tries to clinch but Raikov moves out of range.
Lightning tries to clinch up but Raikov circles away and keeps his distance.
Lightning tries to clinch but Raikov moves out of range.
Lightning is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Lightning tries to close the distance and clinch up but Raikov swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Lightning tries to clinch but Raikov moves out of range.
Raikov fails to land the takedown.
Lightning fails with an attempt to clinch.
Lightning tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Raikov paws at him with a jab and circles away.#T4##TD2#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Raikov.
Lightning can't do much from the bottom here. #SUB2#
Raikov tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Raikov has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Raikov advances nicely into full mount.
Lightning knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Raikov on the ground.#SUB2#
Raikov is going oldschool here, as he tries to force Lightning to tap using a forearm choke. This isn't 1993 though, so Lightning shrugs it off.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Raikov pushing the pace here, looking to move to his opponents back and work for a finish. #SUB2#
Raikov is giving the impression that he's looking to ground and pound but he switches suddenly into a beautiful far side armbar! Lightning is forced to tap! Great finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:57 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ivan Raikov!

Event: TR48: 420 Blunt Force Trauma
Date: Apr 20, 2022

#R1##TD2#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Lightning enables Raikov to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Lightning manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Raikov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Lightning is keeping the position for now. #SUB2#
Raikov postures up as if he's going to throw some strikes but drops back for an ankle! Lightning is in big trouble! He looks ready to tap! But no, he's escaped and dives on top of Raikov, into his guard. #REVR#
Raikov looking for a sweep. Not yet Raikov, not yet. #SUB2#
Raikov is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Lightning is aware though and is defending well.
Lightning has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Raikov looking for a sweep. Not yet Raikov, not yet.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Raikov can do anything to dispel that myth.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Raikov looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Lightning passes into half guard.
Raikov is looking to get back to full guard here but Lightning has managed to pass to side control instead.#T1#
Raikov is looking for a sweep.
Lightning is pausing for a moment. What's he doing? It looks like he's clearing his nose. Oh dude! He's shot a load of snot all down Raikov's shoulder. That is not cool.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Raikov is looking to reverse the position.
Raikov is looking to slip a leg under and get half guard but Lightning is one step ahead and moves to full mount!
Lightning prevents Raikov from getting the reversal.
Raikov bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
Lightning is adopting a defensive guard.
Raikov wants to pass the guard but Lightning is keeping the position.#T2#
Lightning controlling the position.
Raikov stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Lightning swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Raikov trying to move into half guard but instead Lightning has managed to sweep!#REVR#
Raikov looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Raikov is still trying to improve position.#SUB2#
Raikov is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Raikov looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Lightning puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard. #T3#
Raikov wants to improve his position but Lightning is controlling well.
Raikov is pressing down on Lightning's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Raikov wants to sweep but no luck.
Lightning definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Lightning sitting in guard here, content to control. #SUB2#
Raikov is working actively from the bottom, looking for submissions. He's escaped his hips to the side and he's going for an armbar! Lightning has his hands clasped together but Raikov extends and breaks Lightning's desperate grasp, forcing a tap out due to armbar! Nice BJJ displayed there by Raikov.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ivan Raikov!

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Mar 02, 2022

#R1#
Raikov closes this distance looking for a takedown but Michael circles away.
Raikov sets himself, and Michael steps forward looking for the clinch! Raikov avoids it this time.
Michael turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Raikov shoots in for a takedown but Michael shows good takedown defense.
Raikov moves out of the way of the counter high kick fromMichael.
Raikov has a takedown stuffed.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ivan Raikov. That's going to take a lot out of him.#TD#
Raikov shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Michael is trying to defend but Raikov finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.

Michael makes some distance and scrambles quickly back to his feet. Nice work!#TD#
Raikov closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.

Michael manages to escape and get back to his feet!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#CL2#
Michael clinches with his opponent. #TD2#
Michael lands a takedown into guard.
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.
Raikov looking for a sweep. Not yet Raikov, not yet.
Raikov is working hard here to advance position.
Michael working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Raikov's head.#SUB#
Raikov is looking for a triangle but Michael pushes his legs off easily. #T1#
Raikov tries to land a sweep but no joy. #SUB#
Raikov looking to try and escape his hips here, looking for a submission. It looks like he's going for a triangle but Michael is defending well. Raikov quickly switches to an armbar and extends the arm! Michael has no choice but to tap, to a very quick submission! Wow, that was lightning fast! Raikov celebrates on the cage, with the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:27 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ivan Raikov!

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