Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: RFL 2 - Second Coming
Date: Apr 27, 2024

#R1#
Luokkamaki keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Luokkamaki connects with a crisp jab. #CL#
Esponosa moves into the clinch.
Luokkamaki lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Luokkamaki lands a left hand.
Esponosa fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Luokkamaki tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Luokkamaki misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Luokkamaki scores with a nice hook to the head.
Esponosa is looking for a takedown.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.#BC2#
Luokkamaki breaks the clinch.
A left lands for Luokkamaki.
A big right from Esponosa misses.
Luokkamaki connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
A kick lands to the mid section there for Luokkamaki.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Esponosa gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Esponosa takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Esponosa keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot. #T1##CL#
Esponosa moves into the clinch successfully. #TD#
Esponosa manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back. #SUB#
Esponosa looking for a guillotine here but Luokkamaki defends easily. #SUB#
Esponosa looking for subs off his back but Luokkamaki has passed one foot through into half guard. #SUB#
Esponosa looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Esponosa gets back to full guard. #T2##SUB#
Esponosa escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Luokkamaki gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance. #SUB#
Esponosa looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Luokkamaki postures up. #SUB#
Luokkamaki got a little sloppy there for a moment and Esponosa has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Luokkamaki has managed to get both his arms back between Esponosa's legs - danger averted.#T3##SUB#
Esponosa looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Luokkamaki has picked Esponosa up and slammed him! Esponosa can't keep hold of the triangle and Luokkamaki manages to pass to side control!
Esponosa is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Luokkamaki working away.
Esponosa tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Luokkamaki wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Esponosa manages to land a sweep and he's now on top! Lovely Jiu Jitsu!
Luokkamaki controlling the position well. #T4#
Esponosa is looking to advance position but Luokkamaki won't allow it.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Esponosa missing with the ground and pound from half guard. #SUB#
Esponosa is looking for submissions but instead, Luokkamaki has regained full guard.
Esponosa wants to pass the guard but Luokkamaki is keeping the position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Esponosa trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jere Luokkamaki dominated that round.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.#R2#
Luokkamaki swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Esponosa feinted with a counter takedown.
Luokkamaki looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
The step up in weight doesn't seem to be a problem for Luokkamaki. He's performing admirably here against the bigger man.
Luokkamaki uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Esponosa is trying hard to land a takedown here. Luokkamaki sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
A chopping leg kick lands by Luokkamaki.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Esponosa is defended easily by Luokkamaki.
Esponosa shoots in but no luck this time.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Luokkamaki as he avoids it easily.
Donk. Luokkamaki catches Esponosa right on the button with a cross.
Esponosa staying out of range there.
Nice jab there from Luokkamaki.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Esponosa on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Luokkamaki has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#TD#
Esponosa feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Esponosa trying to control but Luokkamaki is working from the bottom.
Luokkamaki is controlling Esponosa's posture.
Esponosa will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.#T1#
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Esponosa wants to control from the top but Luokkamaki keeps moving.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Luokkamaki holds on and takes a little breather. #SUB#
Esponosa drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Esponosa jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Esponosa's corner is telling him to maintain position.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.#SUB#
Esponosa drops back looking for a leg! Luokkamaki is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Luokkamaki manages to kick Esponosa off! Esponosa jumps back into Luokkamaki's guard. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Esponosa cracks Luokkamaki with an open hand slap.
Esponosa sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.
Luokkamaki stuffs the takedown.
Luokkamaki throws the left hand but Esponosa avoids the punch easily.
Luokkamaki has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Esponosa shoots in but Luokkamaki avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Esponosa moves in looking to clinch but Luokkamaki pushes him off.
Esponosa connects with the punch.
Luokkamaki scores with a body shot.
Luokkamaki lands a jab to Esponosa's midsection.#T3#
Luokkamaki jabs Esponosa right on the nose. Esponosa blinks but takes it well.
Esponosa shoots for a takedown but Luokkamaki saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.#TD#
Esponosa closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Luokkamaki quickly recovers to half guard.
Luokkamaki is trying to control but can't.
Esponosa is taking a breather. Luokkamaki says something to him but it's hard to make out. Perhaps he's telling him to get on with it and actually do something.
Esponosa thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Luokkamaki's head.
Esponosa wants to take a breather but Luokkamaki is having none of it.
Esponosa tries to pass to full mount but Luokkamaki defends it.
Esponosa trying to control the action but Luokkamaki is working from the bottom.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.#T4#
Luokkamaki is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Esponosa slips under a jab from Luokkamaki.
Esponosa goes for a double leg but Luokkamaki avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Luokkamaki continues to drive forward.
I was talking to Esponosa's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Luokkamaki just stands there and leans against the cage.#BC2#
Luokkamaki's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Luokkamaki goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
A big right from Esponosa misses.
Luokkamaki fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Esponosa has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
An inside leg kick lands from Luokkamaki.
Esponosa fails with a takedown attempt.
Luokkamaki lands a body shot.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jere Luokkamaki showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Luokkamaki.
No luck for Esponosa with that takedown attempt.
Esponosa shoots in but Luokkamaki avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown but Luokkamaki shows good takedown defense.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Esponosa tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Luokkamaki manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Luokkamaki lands with a nice body kick.
Luokkamaki bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Luokkamaki lands with an overhand left.
Esponosa fails to land the takedown.
That kick from Luokkamaki tenderised Esponosa's leg. Esponosa is trying to keep his angry face on.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Luokkamaki throws the kick towards the body but Esponosa avoids it.
Esponosa half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Luokkamaki misses with a looping right.
Jere Luokkamaki seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Luokkamaki lands a nice shot to the body.
Luokkamaki ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.#T1#
Luokkamaki is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Esponosa.
A low kick lands for Luokkamaki.
A good leg kick by Luokkamaki.
Esponosa closes this distance looking for a takedown but Luokkamaki circles away.
Luokkamaki scores with a hook to the body. Esponosa takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Luokkamaki as he jumps to the side.
Luokkamaki flicks out a counter leg kick but Esponosa steps away.
Esponosa moves out of range of the body kick from Luokkamaki.
Luokkamaki scores with a spinning back kick!
Luokkamaki pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Luokkamaki is looking to land body kicks.
Luokkamaki thows a body kick. Esponosa tries to catch it but that hurt him.
Esponosa tries to clinch but Luokkamaki moves out of range.
Luokkamaki doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Luokkamaki jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Luokkamaki dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Luokkamaki is looking to slow Esponosa down with leg kicks.
Luokkamaki lands a head kick!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Luokkamaki lands a jab to Esponosa's midsection.#T2#
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown but Luokkamaki shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
A shot to the liver by Luokkamaki. Beautiful body shot.
Jere Luokkamaki seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A jab from Luokkamaki misses.
Luokkamaki on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.#CL#
Esponosa instigates a clinch.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Luokkamaki holds him up against the cage and eventually Esponosa drops back down to his feet.
Luokkamaki scores with a nice hook to the head.#BC2#
Luokkamaki's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Luokkamaki misses the shot to the body.
Esponosa sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.
Esponosa tries for a takedown but Luokkamaki sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Esponosa walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
A slapping leg kick lands for Luokkamaki.
Luokkamaki with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Jere Luokkamaki is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Luokkamaki throws a quick head kick that skims the top of Esponosa's head.#T3#
Luokkamaki scores with a jab to the body.
Esponosa avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Esponosa moves out of range as Luokkamaki throws a body kick.
Luokkamaki misses with a double jab.
Luokkamaki misses the jab.
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown but Luokkamaki shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Luokkamaki throws a nice outside leg kick.
Esponosa darts in looking for a takedown but Luokkamaki gets double underhooks and turns Esponosa into the cage.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.#TD#
Esponosa jumps guard and drags Luokkamaki to the mat. He's obviously going to be looking for submissions off his back.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Esponosa wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now. #SUB#
Esponosa looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Luokkamaki passes into side control.
You can see the frustration on Esponosa's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#T4#
Esponosa tries to bench press Luokkamaki off him but Luokkamaki keeps the position.
You can see the frustration on Esponosa's face as Luokkamaki controls the position.
Esponosa tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Luokkamaki wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Esponosa trying to control but Luokkamaki flips him over like a cheap hooker and has his back!
Esponosa trying to control the action but Luokkamaki just sinks the hooks in.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ian Loll scores the fight 26:30
Judge Dillan Fox scores the fight 27:30
Judge Trevor Gratis scores the fight 26:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Jere Luokkamaki!
The defeated Ricardo Esponosa had this to say: 'We’ll get it next time '.

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Mar 21, 2024

#R1#
A slow jab from Kearney misses its intended target. #TD#
Esponosa looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Esponosa is working Kearney over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Kearney looking to control.
Esponosa pushes down on Kearney's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Kearney is trying to get back to full guard.#SUB#
Esponosa is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Kearney has managed to free his arm - good work.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kearney is trying to stand up here but Esponosa is controlling him well. #SUB#
Esponosa is looking for a kimura but Kearney is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Esponosa to get the leverage. #T1#
Kearney trying to keep hold of his opponent's head but Esponosa manages to pass to mount!
Esponosa controlling from mount.
Kearney tries to reverse the position but Esponosa maintains control.
Esponosa controlling his opponent. #SUB#
Esponosa looks like he's working for a submission but he's not found anything just yet.
Kearney is trying to reverse the position but instead Esponosa has taken his back - oops!
Kearney wants to get back to his feet.
Esponosa has good solid back control here.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T2##SUB#
Esponosa is looking for the choke from the back position but Kearney is controlling his hands well. #SUB#
Esponosa is working for the choke. He's slipped one arm under the chin. Kearney has to defend the other arm for all he's worth... but Esponosa has managed to get that arm free too and he's tightening the choke! Kearney taps out and looks absolutely disgusted with himself. Esponosa doesn't care though - he's delighted!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:40 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Ricardo Esponosa!
A very excited looking Ricardo Esponosa rambled incoherently for about 5 minutes post fight about how awesome he is. It was kinda funny for a while but then everyone got annoyed.

Event: NYF Fight Night 16
Date: Nov 24, 2023

#R1#
Diaz with a nice cross.
Diaz looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Diaz throws a shot to the body. #TD#
Esponosa closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Esponosa lands in his opponent's guard.
Esponosa is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Esponosa postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Diaz keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Esponosa trying to control the position from guard on top but Diaz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T1#
Esponosa 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.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Diaz trying to punch from his back but it's not doing any damage.
Esponosa trying to control but Diaz is working from the bottom.
Esponosa prevents Diaz from getting back to his feet. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Diaz ducks under a wild hook from Esponosa.
Esponosa moves away from the strike by Diaz.
Diaz dips to his left and cracks Esponosa with an uppercut!
Diaz blocks a jab.
Esponosa is looking to clinch but Diaz is avoiding it.
Diaz loads up on a big right hand but Esponosa slips the punch.
Esponosa lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering. #T2#
Diaz connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Esponosa momentarily.
Diaz moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Diaz throws a big shot that misses.
Esponosa changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Diaz tries to avoid it but Esponosa manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Diaz to the ground. Diaz escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Diaz swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Esponosa ducks under a wild hook from Diaz.#TD#
Esponosa looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Esponosa wants to control from the top but Diaz keeps moving.
Esponosa controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling. #ES2#
Diaz scrambles and gets back to his feet. #T3#
Esponosa fails with the takedown.
Diaz looks to land a right hand but Esponosa moved out of range.
Diaz throws a body punch but Esponosa moves out of range.
Diaz connects with a looping right hand.
Good standup being displayed there by Diaz as he connects with a hook.
A solid leg kick lands there for Diaz.
Diaz's jab looks to have found its range, popping Esponosa under the eye.
Esponosa is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Esponosa ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Diaz takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Esponosa goes for a double leg but Diaz avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Diaz continues to drive forward.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.#BC2#
Diaz manages to break the clinch.
Diaz jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Esponosa on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Diaz lands a right hook to the body. #T4#
Esponosa takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Diaz steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Esponosa.
Diaz connects with a nice looking jab. #TD#
Esponosa scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Esponosa takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.#SUB2#
Diaz looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Esponosa is working for a kimura here but Diaz manages to reverse the position and he's now in Esponosa's guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Esponosa has a closed guard, preventing Diaz from standing up.
Esponosa controls Diaz momentarily but Diaz frees himself.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Julian Diaz dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Esponosa fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Diaz avoids it really well and circles away.
Diaz paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Diaz misses with a kick to the body.
Esponosa uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Diaz.
Diaz has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Diaz attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Esponosa tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Diaz looks to land a left hand but Esponosa moved out of range nicely.
Diaz throws a solid leg kick but Esponosa takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Diaz.
Julian Diaz seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Esponosa shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Diaz slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Esponosa misses the jab.
Diaz throws out a powerful jab.
Esponosa fails with the takedown.
The fight stays on the outside here - Esponosa looks like he's thinking about clinching though.#T1#
Esponosa blocks a jab.
Esponosa on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Julian Diaz is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Esponosa tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.#TD#
Esponosa closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Esponosa drops an elbow to the side of Diaz's head.
Well, if Esponosa is going to just lie there, perhaps we should talk about what we're having for dinner tonight… I'm having a ham and pineapple pizza… Yum. Can't wait.
Ricardo Esponosa overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Esponosa wants to take a breather but Diaz is having none of it.
Diaz wants to get back to his feet. #T2#
Diaz is staying active underneath Esponosa, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Esponosa stalling.
Diaz is trying to stand up here but Esponosa is controlling him well.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.#SUB#
Esponosa wants to work for an arm triangle but Diaz is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Esponosa missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Diaz is trying to stand up here but Esponosa is controlling him well. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Diaz catches Esponosa with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Diaz thows a left - swing and a miss! #TD#
Esponosa drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
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!
Diaz is trying to get back to his feet.#T3##SUB#
Esponosa is trying to get an arm triangle but Diaz is defending well.
Diaz is looking to work his way out of this bad position but Esponosa is controlling him well.
Esponosa in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Diaz is pushing Esponosa's head away, looking to escape. Esponosa manages to hold on to the position though.
A lull in the action here as Esponosa stalls from top position.
Diaz wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!#T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.#SUB#
Esponosa tries for a kimura but Diaz is defending well.
Diaz pushes Esponosa away and creates a bit of space to escape. He's almost out here... but no, Esponosa gets a good hold of his legs and remains firmly in side control.
Diaz prevents Esponosa from moving into mount.
Esponosa prevents Diaz from escaping the position.
Esponosa staying calm.
Diaz is not content to let Esponosa control the position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Julian Diaz showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Diaz sizes up Esponosa with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Esponosa changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Diaz tries to avoid it but Esponosa manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Diaz to the ground. Diaz escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Diaz scores with a nice head shot.
Diaz scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Diaz misses with a straight right.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Esponosa.
Diaz lands an overhand right.
Diaz connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Diaz changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Diaz jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Diaz jabs Esponosa to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Esponosa fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Diaz as he avoids it easily.
Diaz looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.#T1#
Diaz throws the left hand but Esponosa avoids the punch easily.
Esponosa half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Esponosa displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Diaz throws out the jab.
Esponosa drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Diaz feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Esponosas jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Diaz misses with a looping left.
Diaz throws a jab but it's blocked by Esponosa.
Diaz does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.
Diaz misses with an uppercut.
Diaz connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Esponosa takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Diaz looks to throw the jab but Esponosa is out of range.
Esponosa attempts a counter takedown but Diaz avoids it well and moves away.
Diaz waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Esponosa.
Diaz fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Esponosa.
Diaz lands a nice shot that snaps Esponosa's head back.
Diaz fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Esponosa has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Diaz throws an off balance right hand #TD#
and Esponosa decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Diaz's guard.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Diaz can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Esponosa controls the pace.#T2#
Diaz wants to stand up but Esponosa is controlling him.
Esponosa trying to control the position from guard on top but Diaz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Esponosa won't allow Diaz to get back to his feet.
Esponosa is standing up over Diaz. Diaz looks to escape but Esponosa dives into side control. #T3#
Diaz tries to get back to his feet but has found himself mounted instead. Damn, that's gotta suck.
Esponosa won't let Diaz get back to his feet... He wants to keep the fight where it is for now.
Esponosa tries to control but Diaz wriggling away. #SUB#
Esponosa working for a submission but Diaz is keeping him at bay.
Esponosa controlling from mount. #T4#
Esponosa can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Diaz is looking to escape.
Diaz is bucking up trying to escape but Esponosa cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
Esponosa wants to control the pace but Diaz is squirming around nicely.
Diaz is trying to get to the cage to help him get back to his feet.
Julian Diaz is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Esponosa can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Diaz is looking to escape.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Eddie Farnsworth scores the fight 27:30
Judge Joseph Jones scores the fight 27:30
Judge Dean Styles scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Julian Diaz!
Ricardo Esponosa spoke after the fight, saying 'We’ll get it next time '.

Event: NYF Fight Night 14
Date: Oct 27, 2023

#R1#
Adams connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Esponosa's hands.
Esponosa misses the jab.#CL2#
Esponosa clinches.
Esponosa has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Adams after a bit of a struggle. #TD2#
Esponosa drags the fight down to the ground.
Adams trying to control but Esponosa is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Esponosa has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Adams can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #SUB2#
Esponosa is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Adams is aware though and is defending well.
Adams wants to control from the top but Esponosa keeps moving.
Adams 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.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Esponosa throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Adams wants to pass the guard but Esponosa is keeping the position.#T1#
Esponosa looking to control. #SUB#
Adams has gone for a leg lock! Esponosa slips out almost immediately though and dives into Adams's guard.#REVB##SUB#
Adams has his foot on Esponosa's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Esponosa works his way back into a safe position though.#SUB#
Adams escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Esponosa gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Esponosa controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Adams is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Esponosa in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Adams keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully.
Esponosa not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Adams wants to control but instead he gets his guard passed and Esponosa is now in half guard. #T2#
Adams is looking for a sweep. Esponosa is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Esponosa is figuring out what he wants to do next.
Adams trying to hold on to Esponosa's head to control him but Esponosa postures up. #SUB#
Adams looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB2#
Esponosa seems to be working for a kimura but Adams defends the submission attempt.
Esponosa prevents Adams from improving his position.
Adams is trying to control but can't.
Adams is staying active underneath Esponosa, who seems content to just control the action from this position. #T3##SUB#
Adams looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Adams is looking to control Esponosa's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Adams avoid being mounted?
Adams wants to get back to full guard.
Esponosa is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.#SUB2#
Esponosa is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Adams defends it well.
Adams is positioning himself well to prevent Esponosa advancing to mount. #SUB2#
Esponosa looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique. #SUB#
Adams looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#T4#
There's not a lot going on here and the crowd are letting the fighters know they're not willing to tolerate a lack of action.#SUB#
Adams looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB2#
Esponosa is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Adams trying to control from the bottom.
Esponosa is looking to take a break and control but Adams is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Adams has hold of Esponosa's hands but Esponosa slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Esponosa is looking to take a break and control but Adams is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Adams has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Esponosa is working away from the top position though.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Esponosa dominated that round.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.#R2#
Esponosa fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Adams avoids it really well and circles away.#CL#
Adams takes the fight into the clinch.
Esponosa tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Adams tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Esponosa's elbow.
Adams can't find room to land a body shot as Esponosa controls the action.
Adams lands on the inside with an uppercut.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Adams throws a punch but it's blocked by Esponosa.
Adams lands with a light punch inside.
Adams has a couple of punches blocked by Esponosa.
Adams softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Esponosa is trying to pull guard but being pressed up against the cage enables Adams to keep the fight standing.
Steel Adams has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Esponosa.
Adams lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Esponosa or not. #T1#
Adams throws a punch but it's blocked by Esponosa.
Adams stops a takedown attempt from Esponosa.
Esponosa is trying to pull guard but being pressed up against the cage enables Adams to keep the fight standing.
Adams scores with a shoulder strike.
Adams swings wildly with an uppercut but Esponosa uses good head movement to avoid it.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Adams forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Esponosa blocking some punches.
Adams fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Adams lands an uppercut.
Adams lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Adams pushes Esponosa back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Adams misses with a punch on the inside.
Esponosa takes a shot to the head. #TD2#
Esponosa manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back.
Adams looking to sit in guard and control but Esponosa gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB#
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!
Esponosa forces his way into half guard.#T2#
Esponosa missing with some ground and pound from the half guard. #SUB#
Adams looking for submissions off his back.#SUB2#
Esponosa is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Adams controlling the position well.
Adams is looking to control Esponosa's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Adams avoid being mounted?
Esponosa wants to control but Adams is keeping him busy.
Adams has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Esponosa is working away from the top position though.#SUB2#
Esponosa is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there. #SUB#
Adams actively working from the bottom here.#T3#
Esponosa wants to take a breather but Adams is having none of it. #SUB#
Adams is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Esponosa pulls his head out easily.
Esponosa sitting and controlling from the half guard.
Adams has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Esponosa is working away from the top position though.#SUB#
Esponosa moves into side control, avoiding a weak kimura attempt from Adams.
Esponosa working away.
Adams is not content to let Esponosa control the position. #T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Adams is trying to control Esponosa's posture but Esponosa avoids it. #SUB2#
Esponosa thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Adams can't do much from the bottom here.
Adams is in a bad position, trying to hold on for dear life but he is really struggling to maintain any sort of control.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Adams manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Adams is refusing to be controlled, as Esponosa sits in half guard. #SUB#
Adams looking for a kimura from the bottom but Esponosa passes into side control!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Steel Adams dominated that second round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!#R3#
Esponosa shoots and misses
and Adams counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Esponosa takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders. #CL#
Adams clinches up against the cage.
Esponosa is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Adams pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Good body shot from Adams.
Adams fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Esponosa tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Steel Adams has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Esponosa.
Esponosa is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Adams pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Adams lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Adams works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Adams softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Adams misses with a punch to the body.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Adams forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Adams scores with a shoulder strike.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Adams just stands there and leans against the cage.
Adams swings wildly with an uppercut but Esponosa uses good head movement to avoid it.
Adams is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Esponosa can do to turn this around?
Esponosa is looking for a takedown.
Esponosa takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.#T1#
Adams scores with a shoulder strike.
Adams is pressed up against the cage. Esponosa has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Adams down to the mat. Adams avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Adams sizes up Esponosa with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle. #CL#
Adams has closed the distance and engaged Esponosa in a clinch.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Adams won't allow it.
A right hand to the body from Adams.
Adams scores with a shot to the side of Esponosa's head.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Adams just stands there and leans against the cage.
A nice right hand lands inside from Adams.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Esponosa.
Adams lands a left hand that snaps the head of Esponosa backwards.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Adams.
Esponosa fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Adams softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Adams lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Adams lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards. #ROC#Esponosa is rocked!#T2#
A shot in the inside from Adams.
Esponosa is still on wobbly legs! Can Adams finish him?
Adams lands a left hand.
Adams creates some distance for himself and unleashes a massive uppercut that sends Esponosa's eyes rolling into the back of his head! Esponosa drops to his knees and Adams pours it on with more strikes until the referee steps in to end the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:18 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Steel Adams!
Steel Adams thanked the fans post fight for their support.
Ricardo Esponosa was interviewed post fight and said 'We’ll get it next time '.

Event: NYF Fight Night 13
Date: Oct 06, 2023

#R1#
Garcia thuds a left hand into Esponosa's body.
Leonardo Pancho Garcia seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#TD#
Esponosa closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Esponosa slows the pace down. #SUB#
Esponosa is trying to get an arm triangle but Garcia is defending well.
Garcia is trying to improve his position.
Garcia wants to control but Esponosa postures up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Garcia gets back to half guard.#SUB#
Esponosa is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Garcia has managed to free his arm - good work.
Garcia has his hands clasped together around Esponosa's back. He's all about the action.#T1#
Garcia blocking the ground and pound attempt from Esponosa.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Esponosa wants to pass the guard but Garcia is defending well.
Garcia is looking for a sweep. Esponosa is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Garcia manages to get to full guard. #SUB2#
Garcia is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle. #T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Esponosa pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Garcia is keeping the position for now.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Garcia keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully. #SUB2#
Garcia is looking for a triangle but Esponosa pushes his legs off easily.
Esponosa engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Garcia is trying to control the position from the bottom.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.#T3#
Garcia working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Esponosa. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.#CL#
Esponosa rushes Garcia and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Garcia pushes Esponosa back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
Esponosa blocks a body shot from Garcia.
Garcia tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked. #TD#
Esponosa gets the body lock takedown. After a quick scramble, Garcia regains guard.
Esponosa 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.
Esponosa is fighting to break Garcia's control of his arms but Garcia is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.#SUB2#
Garcia looking for a guillotine here but Esponosa defends easily.
Esponosa stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Garcia swivels though and keeps the full guard. #T4##SUB2#
Garcia looking to try and escape his hips here, looking for a submission. It looks like he's going for a triangle but Esponosa is defending well. Garcia quickly switches to an armbar and extends the arm! Esponosa has no choice but to tap, to a very quick submission! Wow, that was lightning fast! Garcia celebrates on the cage, with the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:33 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Leonardo Pancho Garcia!
In defeat, Ricardo Esponosa stepped up to the mic, saying 'We’ll get it next time '.

Event: MMAHKI 59
Date: Jun 26, 2023

#R1#
Esponosa defending well as Lagavulin loads up on a big left hand.
Esponosa fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Sergei Lagavulin seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Lagavulin misses with a looping right.
Lagavulin gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.#CL2#
Lagavulin takes the fight into the clinch.
Esponosa wants a takedown.
Lagavulin lands a nice elbow.
Lagavulin lands an elbow that stopped Esponosa in his tracks for a moment.
Esponosa avoids the elbow strike from Lagavulin, against the cage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa jumps guard but Lagavulin turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Lagavulin forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
With the two fighters working up against the cage, Lagavulin just misses with a elbow thrown towards Esponosa's brow.
Lagavulin lands a nice elbow from the clinch.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Lagavulin forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Lagavulin is trying to slow down the pace in the clinch, to catch his breath.
Lagavulin connects with a nasty looking knee right to Esponosa's face. #T1#
Esponosa tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Esponosa jumps guard but Lagavulin stands there with Esponosa around his waist. Esponosa gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Lagavulin won't allow it.
Esponosa avoids the elbow strike from Lagavulin, against the cage.
Lagavulin throws a nice elbow but it doesn't land.
Esponosa dodges an elbow strike from Lagavulin.
Esponosa jumps guard but Lagavulin stands there with Esponosa around his waist. Esponosa gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Lagavulin creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses.
Esponosa avoids a wild elbow strike from Lagavulin.
Esponosa avoids the elbow strike from Lagavulin, against the cage.
Lagavulin tries to stall but Esponosa uses the opportunity to gain a better position.
Esponosa fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Lagavulin missing with knees to the body.
With the two fighters working up against the cage, Lagavulin just misses with a elbow thrown towards Esponosa's brow.
Lagavulin tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Esponosa avoids it.
Esponosa dodges an elbow strike from Lagavulin. #T2#
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Lagavulin forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Lagavulin gets underhooks to prevent Esponosa's takedown attempt.
With the fighters up against the cage, Lagavulin throws an elbow but misses.
Lagavulin tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Esponosa avoids it.
Lagavulin is stalling here.
Lagavulin tries a knee to the head but he's missed.
Esponosa jumps guard but Lagavulin turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.
Lagavulin with a knee to the head.
Lagavulin tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Esponosa avoids it.
Esponosa takes an elbow to the temple.
Lagavulin creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#TD#
Esponosa pulls guard.
Esponosa seems to have improved his submission grappling technique since last time we saw him. Let's see if he can pull off a submission.
Lagavulin slips nicely into half guard.
Lagavulin wants to pass the guard but Esponosa is defending well.
Esponosa keeping control of the leg, stopping his opponent passing to mount. #T3##SUB#
Esponosa looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Lagavulin is pressing down on Esponosa's thigh, looking to free his foot. Esponosa is holding on for now.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Lagavulin passes to side control.
Esponosa is being controlled here.
Lagavulin trying to control the action but Esponosa is working from the bottom.
Esponosa tries to buck Lagavulin off but Lagavulin is having none of it.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Lagavulin working away.
Lagavulin wants to control but Esponosa is keeping him busy.
Esponosa tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Lagavulin is maintaining the dominant position - no doubt Esponosa will start to get frustrated soon if he's not already.
Lagavulin taking a break here but Esponosa is having none of it and regains half guard.
Lagavulin wants to take a breather but Esponosa is having none of it.
Lagavulin passes the guard and advances to mount!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Sergei Lagavulin dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Lagavulin with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Esponosa to score with a decent uppercut.#CL2#
Lagavulin takes the fight into the clinch.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Lagavulin holds him up against the cage and eventually Esponosa drops back down to his feet.
Lagavulin throws an elbow that misses.
Esponosa is trying to pull guard but Lagavulin turns him against the cage and we stay in the clinch.
Lagavulin lands a damaging elbow.
Esponosa drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Lagavulin with an attempt at a knee that misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#TD#
Esponosa pulls guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Lagavulin stands and throws Esponosa's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Lagavulin is looking to take a break and control but Esponosa is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #T1#
Esponosa is trying to get back to half guard.
Esponosa stuck in half guard on the bottom here.
Sergei Lagavulin has got the better of the ground game so far.
Lagavulin trying to control the action but Esponosa is working from the bottom. #T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Lagavulin takes a little break here. Esponosa wants to take advantage but he is being controlled well.
Lagavulin wants to control but Esponosa is keeping him busy.
Esponosa wants to control but Lagavulin postures up.#T3#
Esponosa is looking for a sweep.
Lagavulin trying to control the position but Esponosa is working away. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Esponosa loads up on a big right hand but Lagavulin slips the punch.#TD#
Esponosa feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
Esponosa wants to control from the top but Lagavulin keeps moving.
Esponosa is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Lagavulin is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.#T4#
Esponosa pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Lagavulin is keeping the position for now.
Esponosa slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.#SUB#
Esponosa swings around for an armbar but Lagavulin sees it coming a mile off and turns beautifully into Esponosa's guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Esponosa keeping full guard, as Lagavulin tries to pass.
Esponosa can't keep his opponent in guard - Lagavulin advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Sergei Lagavulin showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!#R3#
A jab from Lagavulin misses. #TD#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Lagavulin enables Esponosa to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Lagavulin manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.#SUB#
Esponosa is holding a leg here, probably looking for an ankle lock - he drops back and goes for it! Lagavulin is in trouble! Is it all over??? No! Lagavulin has escaped and now he's on top! #REVB#
Esponosa can't keep his opponent in guard - Lagavulin advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Lagavulin is pressing down on Esponosa's thigh, looking to free his foot. Esponosa is holding on for now.
Lagavulin passes the guard and advances to mount!
Lagavulin can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Esponosa is looking to escape. #T1#
Esponosa regains half guard.
Esponosa has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Lagavulin is working away from the top position though.
Lagavulin wants to take a breather but Esponosa is having none of it. #SUB2#
Lagavulin is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Esponosa is just riding it out for now. Lagavulin eventually gives up the hold.
Lagavulin wants to advance to full mount but Esponosa doesn't think that's going to happen and regains full guard instead.
Sergei Lagavulin is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.#T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.#SUB#
Lagavulin avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Esponosa trying to keep a closed guard but Lagavulin is proving a slippery customer.
Lagavulin not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Lagavulin is continuing to stall.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Esponosa has his foot on Lagavulin's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Lagavulin works his way back into a safe position though.#T3##SUB#
Esponosa is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Lagavulin postures up.
Lagavulin forces his way into half guard.
Esponosa has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Lagavulin is working away from the top position though.
Lagavulin trying to mount his opponent but Esponosa defends it.
The fighters are battling for position here. Esponosa manages to regain full guard. Nice work. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Esponosa has control of Lagavulin's left arm, preventing Lagavulin from doing any damage.
Lagavulin controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Lagavulin postures up. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Lagavulin lands a glancing blow to the side of Esponosa's head.
No luck for Esponosa with that takedown attempt.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Nice shot by Lagavulin.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Esponosa.

And that's the end of the fight!
Sergei Lagavulin comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Lagavulin has outworked and out performed his opponent in all aspects of the game today. He was simply too good and the decision should be no more than a formality. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Roosa Järviläinen scores the fight 27:30
Judge Marco Blurström scores the fight 27:30
Judge Matti Vanhoillinen scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Sergei Lagavulin!
In defeat, Ricardo Esponosa stepped up to the mic, saying 'We’ll get it next time '.

Event: MMAHKI 51
Date: May 23, 2023

#R1##CL#
Cruz pushes Esponosa up against the cage in a clinch.
Esponosa fails to pull guard.
Cruz scores with a nice hook to the head.
Cruz tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Cruz lands with a left to the head.
Cruz doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Still in the clinch, Cruz scores with a nice short uppercut.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Cruz forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Esponosa jumps guard but Cruz stands there with Esponosa around his waist. Esponosa gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Jacinto Cruz has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Esponosa.
Esponosa goes for a takedown in the clinch but Cruz prevents it.
Esponosa looking for a takedown.
Cruz can't find room to land a body shot as Esponosa controls the action.
Cruz tries to throw a body punch but Esponosa avoids it by throwing Cruz back against the cage.
Cruz working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz misses with a punch to the body.
Cruz throws a head punch that misses. #TD2#
Esponosa has picked Cruz up - he's going for a ride! Esponosa dumps his opponent to the mat with a thud and settles into half guard.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Esponosa is trying to control the action in half guard but Cruz is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Cruz is in a tricky position but he's been working on his transitions down at League of Shadows MMA, so we'll see if he gets out of it.
Cruz is trying to get back to full guard.
Cruz trying to control from the bottom. #T1##SUB2#
Esponosa is working for a kimura from half guard. He's really concentrating on the hold and it's allowed Cruz to slip a leg under and get back to full guard.
Esponosa tries to free his leg and advance position but Cruz is retaining full guard.
Cruz is trying to keep Esponosa in close. #SUB#
Cruz working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Esponosa doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Esponosa manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Esponosa won't allow Cruz to sweep him here. #T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Esponosa throwing strikes from guard but Cruz blocks nicely.
Esponosa throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Esponosa 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. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.#CL#
Cruz rushes Esponosa and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Cruz swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Esponosa jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Cruz walks away with a smile on his face. Esponosa gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
Esponosa looks to clinch
and Cruz counters with a nice leg kick. #T3#
Esponosa takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Esponosa waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Cruz.
As Esponosa backs away, Cruz returns fire with a leg kick that just misses.
Esponosa misses with a hook. Cruz ducked under it nicely.
Esponosa shoots in for a double leg but Cruz sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Cruz stuffs the takedown attempt from Esponosa. Esponosa gets slowly back to his feet. #CL#
Cruz gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Cruz tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Cruz throws a punch but it's blocked by Esponosa.
Cruz misses with a punch to the body.
Esponosa jumps guard but Cruz turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing. #TD2#
Esponosa has picked Cruz up - he's going for a ride! Esponosa dumps his opponent to the mat with a thud and settles into half guard.
Cruz is staying active underneath Esponosa, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Esponosa not throwing his punches with enough precision this time. #T4#
Esponosa lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Cruz is doing well to control the position and prevent Esponosa from advancing to side control.#SUB#
Cruz is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Esponosa pulls his head out easily.
Cruz tries to get to full guard but Esponosa has control of the leg.
Esponosa wants to take a breather but Cruz is having none of it.
Esponosa has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Esponosa thows a huge punch but Cruz dodges it nicely.
Esponosa thows a huge punch but Cruz dodges it nicely.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Cruz won't allow Esponosa to pass to mount.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jacinto Cruz dominated that round.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action.#R2##CL#
Cruz clinches with his opponent.
Cruz tries a body shot but Esponosa blocks it.
Esponosa has been looking to improve his clinch game in recent weeks. Cruz seems to have the measure of him in the clinch so far, so let's see if Esponosa can turn it around.#TD2#
Esponosa is trying to trip Cruz. He has hold of a leg but Cruz is hopping around, keeping his balance for the moment. Esponosa persists though and gets the takedown into guard.
Cruz is trying to keep Esponosa in close.
Esponosa trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Esponosa sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Esponosa trying to control the position from guard on top but Cruz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz is trying to control the position but Esponosa postures up. #T1#
Esponosa wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving.
Esponosa sitting in guard here, content to control.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.#REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Cruz defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Esponosa.
Esponosa throws a hook to the side of Cruz's head but Cruz sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.#CL#
Cruz closes the distance and pushes Esponosa back into the cage.
A shot in the inside from Cruz. #TD2#
Esponosa jumps guard.
Ricardo Esponosa has got the better of the ground game so far.
Cruz sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Esponosa's guard.
Esponosa wants to control but Cruz is keeping busy. #T2##SUB2#
Esponosa looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Esponosa regains full guard. Nicely done.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up. #SUB2#
Esponosa throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Cruz looking to pass the guard. #T3##SUB2#
Esponosa is looking for a triangle but Cruz pushes his legs off easily.
Esponosa being controlled here, momentarily.
Esponosa wants to control the position but Cruz says "no thanks buddy" and passes to half guard.
Esponosa is looking to improve his position. #T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Esponosa has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Cruz is working away from the top position though.
Esponosa slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Cruz stopping the sweep attempt from Esponosa.#SUB2#
Esponosa looking for subs off his back but Cruz has passed one foot through into half guard.
Cruz controlling the pace.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Jacinto Cruz will probably get the nod.
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.#R3##TD2#
Esponosa feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
Cruz avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Esponosa trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom.
Esponosa pushing down on Cruz's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Esponosa throwing shots but Cruz is blocking nicely. #SUB2#
Esponosa is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz is refusing to be controlled, as Esponosa sits in half guard. #T1#
Esponosa stalling.
Cruz wants to get back to full guard.#SUB2#
Esponosa is looking for a kimura. It's pretty deep but Cruz still has the half guard so he's probably OK. Oh, Cruz has exploded into a beautiful escape there and after a quick scramble, he's ended up in side control on top! Nice work!
Esponosa is trying to improve his position.#T2#
Cruz working away.
Cruz in side control, just content to control the action for now.
Esponosa tries to buck Cruz off but Cruz is having none of it.
Cruz is staying tight to Esponosa's torso, preventing him from escaping. #T3#
Esponosa is looking for a sweep.
Cruz controls the position.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
What's Esponosa going to do here then? He's in a bit of a pickle.#REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Cruz lands a head shot.
Esponosa takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Cruz stuffs the takedown.#CL#
Cruz clinches.
Cruz lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards. #T4#
Esponosa goes for a takedown attempt but Cruz pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
A nice leg kick lands there from Cruz.
Cruz lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Cruz throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #CL#
Cruz gets a clinch.
Cruz is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Esponosa can do to turn this around?
A short right from Cruz.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Cruz scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Cruz lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Cruz struggles to land a body shot inside as Esponosa controls his hands.
Esponosa jumps guard but Cruz turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.
Jacinto Cruz has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Esponosa.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Cruz forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Cruz lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Esponosa tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Cruz smiles and moves away.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Esponosa.
Cruz is looking for a counter combo.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jacinto Cruz clearly takes that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R4#
A chopping leg kick lands by Cruz.
Esponosa takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Esponosa dives in for a single leg takedown but Cruz sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.#CL#
Cruz clinches with his opponent.
A body shot lands from Cruz.
A hook to the body from Cruz.
Cruz is leaning against Esponosa and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Esponosa takes a shot to the head.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Cruz just stands there and leans against the cage.
Esponosa prevents a body shot from Cruz.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz cracks Esponosa with a nice body shot.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Cruz.
Esponosa is absolutely dripping with sweat - he looks exhausted.
Esponosa jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Cruz walks away with a smile on his face. Esponosa gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
Jacinto Cruz has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Esponosa.
Cruz lands a nice shot that snaps Esponosa's head back.
Cruz lands a nice leg kick that just misses Esponosa's sensitive parts. #T1#
Esponosa shoots in but no luck this time.
Cruz connects with a leg kick.
Cruz connects with a jab.
A slow jab from Esponosa misses its intended target.
Cruz scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Cruz turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
A good leg kick by Cruz. #CL#
Cruz has taken the fight to the clinch.
Cruz tries a body shot but Esponosa blocks it.
Cruz tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Cruz misses with a hook from the clinch.
Still in the clinch, Cruz scores with a nice short uppercut.
Esponosa jumps guard but Cruz turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.
Cruz lands a shoulder strike.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Esponosa is trying to pull guard but Cruz has him pressed against the cage.#T2#
Cruz lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Good body shot from Cruz.
Esponosa drops down looking for an ankle pick but Cruz pulls his leg out and moves away. #CL#
Cruz pushes Esponosa up against the cage in a clinch.
Cruz digs a right hand into Esponosa's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Esponosa's gas tank.
Jacinto Cruz has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Good body shot from Cruz.
A nice left hand lands by Cruz.
Cruz lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Cruz softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Nice body punch from Cruz - that landed with a thud.
Cruz lands a right hand.
Cruz lands with a right to the head.
Cruz doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Cruz lands a nice shot to the body.
Cruz struggles to land a body shot inside as Esponosa controls his hands. #T3#
Cruz has a couple of punches blocked by Esponosa.
A nice right hand lands inside from Cruz.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Cruz just stands there and leans against the cage.
Cruz lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Esponosa.
Cruz working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Esponosa has Cruz pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Cruz manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Cruz misses with a body punch.
A short body shot lands from Cruz as the two fighters clinch.
Cruz lands a left hand that snaps the head of Esponosa backwards.
Cruz goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Cruz.
Cruz lands with a short shot to the head.
Esponosa is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Cruz is defending well.
Cruz lands a hook to the side of the head.
A left hand lands to the body for Cruz.
Cruz lands a left hand.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Cruz lands a body punch in the clinch.
Cruz goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Cruz is working Esponosa over against the cage.#T4#
Cruz lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Esponosa backwards.
Still in the clinch, Cruz scores with a nice short uppercut.
Esponosa is trying to pull guard but being pressed up against the cage enables Cruz to keep the fight standing.
Cruz pushes Esponosa back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Cruz just stands there and leans against the cage.
Cruz tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Esponosa blocks an uppercut.
Cruz lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Cruz lands a right hand that snaps the head of Esponosa backwards.
Cruz lands with a light punch inside.
A short uppercut from Cruz.
Cruz lands with a light punch inside.
Cruz lands with a short shot to the head.
Cruz lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage. #ROC#Esponosa is rocked!
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Cruz tries to throw a body punch but Esponosa avoids it by throwing Cruz back against the cage.
Esponosa jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Cruz walks away with a smile on his face. Esponosa gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
Cruz with a nice calf kick.
Esponosa throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Cruz's waist but Cruz gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Esponosa off to one side.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jacinto Cruz had his way with Ricardo Esponosa in that round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action. So, we enter the final round. Let's see if either fighter can bring us a finish, or whether we're going to the judges scorecards.#R5#
Esponosa looks for a takedown but Cruz sprawls well.
Esponosa's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.
Cruz throws a feint and then finishes with a kick to the body.
A good leg kick by Cruz.
Cruz digs a good body shot into Esponosa's ribs.
Cruz fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Esponosa.#CL#
Cruz rushes Esponosa and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.#TD2#
Esponosa decides to pull guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Esponosa throws his legs up looking for a submission but Cruz uses it to pass to side control.
Cruz in side control, just content to control the action for now. #T1#
Esponosa wants to control but Cruz postures up.
Esponosa tries to bench press Cruz off him but Cruz keeps the position.
Esponosa keeps trying to improve his position.
A lull in the action here.
Esponosa is looking to reverse the position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Cruz moving around in side mount but really he's just happy to control for now.
Esponosa tries to bench press Cruz off him but Cruz keeps the position. #T3#
Esponosa tries to slip a leg under to move to half guard but Cruz presses down on the leg and jumps into full mount!
Cruz tries to control but Esponosa wriggling away.
Jacinto Cruz is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Esponosa is desperately trying to improve his position but Cruz has a good base and remains in mount.
Esponosa is still trying to improve position.
Cruz tries to stand up but he's trapped just for the moment.
Cruz takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.#T4#
Esponosa tries to hold on but Cruz postures up.
Esponosa is looking to get to half guard.
Esponosa sneaks a leg under to get to half guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB2#
Esponosa with the active half guard here but Cruz passes nicely into side control.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Matti Vanhoillinen scores the fight 50:44
Judge Marco Blurström scores the fight 50:44
Judge Tarja Halkonen scores the fight 49:45

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Jacinto Cruz!
Jacinto Cruz retains his lightweight title!
Ricardo Esponosa was interviewed post fight and said 'We’ll get it next time '.

Event: MMAHKI 44
Date: Apr 23, 2023

#R1#
Esponosa throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Leben counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Leben misses with an uppercut. Esponosa saw that one coming.
Esponosa tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Leben throws out a loose jab but Esponosa uses good head movement to avoid it.
Esponosa fails with an attempt to clinch.
Leben misses with a hook.
Leben lands a lovely overhand right.#CL2#
Esponosa rushes Leben and presses him up against the cage.
Esponosa is trying to pull guard but Leben has him pressed against the cage.#BC#
Leben escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Esponosa walks into a straight right hand from Leben.
Leben misses with an uppercut. Esponosa saw that one coming.
A looping hook to the body misses from Leben. Esponosa does a little dance to reset his feet.
Leben jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Esponosa slips a jab from Leben.
Esponosa gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Leben counters with a nice uppercut.
Leben misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Esponosa.
Black Leben seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#T1#
Nice straight punches there by Leben. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Leben.
Esponosa slips a straight right by Leben.
Leben bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Leben getting the better of the striking in that exchange.#CL2#
Esponosa has closed the distance and engaged Leben in a clinch.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Leben just stands there and leans against the cage.
Black Leben has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Esponosa.
A short left from Leben. #BC#
Leben manages to break the clinch.
Leben takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
It looks like Leben has been trying to sharpen up his punching technique, as it looks crisper than last time we saw him.
Leben misses with a wild body shot.
Esponosa is looking to clinch but Leben is avoiding it.
Leben listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.#TD2#
Esponosa shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Leben's guard.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Esponosa trying to control but Leben is working from the bottom. #ES#
Leben scrambles and gets back to his feet. #T2#
Leben throws a lazy right hand but Esponosa sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#TD2#
Esponosa feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
Leben not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Esponosa accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Leben trying to control the position.
Leben wants to stand and escape but Esponosa is having none of it. #ES#
Leben uses the cage to get back to his feet.
Esponosa is looking to clinch but Leben is avoiding it.
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Leben as he avoids it easily.
Leben cracks Esponosa with a right hand to the side of the head.
Leben thuds his right hand into Esponosa's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.#T3#
The crowd cheers as Leben lands an impressive looking overhand right. Esponosa doesn't seem phased though.
Nice uppercut there from Leben.
Leben scores with a jab.
Leben is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Esponosa.
Leben is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Leben fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Esponosa looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Leben blocks a jab.
An attempted straight right counter from Leben misses the target.
A big left from Leben misses.
Esponosa tries to close the distance and clinch but Leben swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Leben lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Leben comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Esponosa shoots in but no luck this time.
Leben lands with an overhand left.
Esponosa wants to clinch.#T4#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Leben cracks a nice hook into Esponosa's ribs.
Leben throws a lazy right hand but Esponosa sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Esponosa avoids the body shot from Leben.
Leben swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Esponosa.
Leben just misses with a punch to the body.
Leben lands a jab to the head.
Esponosa steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Leben.
Nice straight punches there by Leben. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Leben.
Esponosa shoots for a double leg takedown but Leben sprawls well. He's pushed Esponosa's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily. #CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.#BC#
Leben breaks from the clinch.
Leben lands a glancing blow to the side of Esponosa's head.
Leben jabs Esponosa right on the nose. Esponosa blinks but takes it well.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Black Leben dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Esponosa ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Esponosa uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Leben.
Esponosa misses with a straight left.
Leben is looking to counter punch.
Leben scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Some wild striking there from Leben.
Esponosa with the counter takedown but Leben avoids it easily.
Black Leben is winning the standup battle so far.
Leben throws an overhand right that lands on Esponosa's shoulder, as Esponosa tries to avoid the shot.
Esponosa closes the distance looking to clinch
and Leben cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Esponosa walks into a straight right hand from Leben.
Leben connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Esponosa momentarily.
The fight stays on the outside here - Esponosa looks like he's thinking about clinching though.#T1#
Esponosa moves out of range as Leben strikes.
Leben defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Esponosa.
Leben scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
Leben jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Leben misses with an uppercut #TD2#
and Esponosa counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Leben!
Leben is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Esponosa off and has taken his back!
We've been informed that Esponosa has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Esponosa trying to control but not successfully.
Leben controlling from the back.#T2#
Esponosa rolls, trying to escape but Leben keeps control of the position.
Leben is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Esponosa can do to turn this around?
Esponosa is still trying to improve position.
Esponosa keeps trying to improve his position.
Leben biding his time, looking for the opening.
Leben tries to get the hooks in deep but Esponosa pushed the leg off.
You know, I was talking to some of our celebrities at ringside tonight and they were split right down the middle on who was going to win this fight. #T3#
Leben is looking to control Esponosa but Esponosa is wriggling around and keeping busy.
Esponosa tries to break free.
Esponosa prevents Leben from getting a body triangle.
A bit of a pause in the action here. Leben controlling the positon.
Leben doesn't have the hooks in and Esponosa manages to turn into his guard. #T4#
Esponosa wants to pass the guard but Leben is keeping the position.
Esponosa landing some decent shots from guard.
Esponosa trying to control but Leben is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Leben has an active guard here but Esponosa has managed to pass into half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Black Leben dominated that second round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! This is the final round!#R3#
Esponosa tries to clinch up but Leben circles away and keeps his distance.
Leben stuffs the takedown attempt from Esponosa. Esponosa gets slowly back to his feet.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Esponosa. #TD2#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Leben enables Esponosa to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Leben manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Leben keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully.
Black Leben overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Leben wants to stand up but Esponosa is controlling him.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Leben keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully. #T1#
Leben is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Esponosa wants to pass the guard but Leben is keeping the position.
Leben wants to stand but Esponosa is controlling the position.
Esponosa looking to sit in guard and control but Leben gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR##SUB2#
Esponosa looking for a guillotine here but Leben defends easily.
Black Leben is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.#SUB2#
Esponosa has his foot on Leben's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Leben works his way back into a safe position though.
Leben wants to stand but Esponosa has a closed guard, so he can't escape. #SUB2#
Esponosa is working for submissions here. He's thrown up his legs looking for a triangle but Leben frees his head nicely. Oh but Esponosa has switched to an armbar! Leben is tapping furiously! Lovely submission there!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:49 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Armbar). Ricardo Esponosa!
Ricardo Esponosa decided to go for the less than humble approach in his post fight interview, telling everyone how he is going to conquer the world. The crowd seemed to like it when really that sort of approach could have gone either way.

Event: MMAHKI 36
Date: Mar 26, 2023

#R1#
Nice jab there from Yama.
Esponosa tries to move into range but Yama moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Yama misses with a hook.
No luck for Esponosa with that takedown attempt. #TD#
Esponosa looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Yama is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Let's hope that Yama has the urge to step up the pace any second now because for the last 15 or 20 seconds he's just been holding on tight.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Esponosa slips nicely into half guard.#T1#
Esponosa perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
Yama is trying to get back to full guard.
Still in half guard, Esponosa seems content to control.
Yama desperately trying to maintain half guard.
Yama is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Esponosa's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Esponosa's back!
Yama not allowing Esponosa to control his hands.
So, who will make the next big move? In this position it could be crucial.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T2#
Yama not allowing Esponosa to control his hands.
I would not like to be Esponosa right now.
Esponosa just trying to survive but Yama is wriggling into a better position, looking to finish.
Yama controlling well, preventing Esponosa from escaping the position.
Yama slows the pace down here. Having a little breather whilst he's in a dominant position, looking to rest and regain some energy, ready to go for the finish.
Yama is looking to control Esponosa but Esponosa is wriggling around and keeping busy. #T3#
I really don't envy Esponosa right now.
Yama keeps control of the position easily here as Esponosa tries to buck him off.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Yama's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.
Esponosa trying to control the hands but Yama won't let him.
Esponosa manages to reverse the position and now he's in Yama's guard. Nice work there by Esponosa.
Esponosa wants to control from the top but Yama keeps moving.
Esponosa will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.#T4#
Esponosa controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Esponosa being controlled here momentarily.
Esponosa trying to control the position from guard on top but Yama is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Yama trying to control the position here.
Esponosa stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Yama swivels though and keeps the full guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Kotetsu Yama 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#
Esponosa slips under a jab from Yama.
Esponosa half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Nice sprawl there from Yama as Esponosa shoots in.#CL#
Esponosa closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Esponosa fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Yama is trying to force a seperation but Esponosa has the dominant position.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Yama won't allow it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Esponosa is trying to pull guard but Yama has him pressed against the cage.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Yama won't allow it.
Esponosa tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it. #TD#
Esponosa jumps guard. #SUB#
Esponosa is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Esponosa has his foot on Yama's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Yama works his way back into a safe position though.
Yama looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
Esponosa looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.#T1##SUB#
Yama avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #SUB#
Yama got a little sloppy there for a moment and Esponosa has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Yama has managed to get both his arms back between Esponosa's legs - danger averted.
Yama wants to pass the guard but Esponosa is keeping the position.
Yama stays in close to Esponosa's body and controls the position. #T2#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Kotetsu Yama has got the better of the ground game so far.#REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Yama keeps the fight on the outside.
Esponosa throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Yama's waist but Yama gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Esponosa off to one side.
Yama throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Esponosa stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Yama scores with a hook.#T3#
Yama lands a nice looking body shot. #TD#
Esponosa closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Yama did well to prevent Esponosa getting side control.
Yama is concentrating on defense, preventing Esponosa from advancing position.
Yama is looking to control Esponosa's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Yama avoid being mounted?
Esponosa tries to pass to full mount but Yama defends it.
Yama controlling the position for now.#SUB#
Esponosa is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg. #SUB#
Esponosa is trying to work for a kimura but Yama is defending well. #T4#
Esponosa throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Yama has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Esponosa is working away from the top position though.
Esponosa working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that. #SUB#
Esponosa is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Yama sees it coming and defends easily.
Yama is staying active underneath Esponosa, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Yama blocking the ground and pound attempt from Esponosa.
Esponosa looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Kotetsu Yama will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R3#
Esponosa takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Esponosa works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown but Yama shows good takedown defense.
Yama looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Esponosa closes this distance looking for a takedown but Yama circles away.#TD#
Esponosa looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.

Yama kicks Esponosa off and gets back to his feet.
Kotetsu Yama seems to be getting the better of the standup.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Yama on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there. #CL#
Esponosa moves into range and clinches up with Yama.
Esponosa is trying to pull guard but Yama has him pressed against the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Esponosa jumps guard but Yama stands there with Esponosa around his waist. Esponosa gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Yama slowing the pace effectively.#T1#
Yama prevents the takedown attempt.
Yama is struggling to control the position.
Esponosa tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Yama smiles and moves away.
Yama lands a jab to the nose.
Yama looks to score with a jab to the body but Esponosa is just out of range.
Yama throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Yama throws a hook but Esponosa blocks it.
Esponosa displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Yama throws out the jab.
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Yama as he avoids it easily.
Yama has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#T2#
Esponosa takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Yama ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Esponosa moves away.
Esponosa drops down looking for a counter takedown but Yama sprawls and moves away.
No luck for Esponosa with that takedown attempt.
Esponosa is trying hard to land a takedown here. Yama sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet. #TD#
Esponosa closes the distance and gets a double leg, slamming Yama to the mat! Yama manages to get full guard.
Yama keeping full guard, as Esponosa tries to pass.
Yama pulls Esponosa in close to prevent any damage.
Yama is continuing to stall.
Yama is trying to keep Esponosa in close. #T3#
Yama looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Esponosa controlling from the top position.
Yama has Esponosa pulled in close to control his posture.
Esponosa controlling from the top position. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.#TD#
Esponosa throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Yama tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Esponosa is in Yama's guard.#T4#
Yama has his hands on Esponosa's head, controlling the position.
Esponosa tries to free his leg and advance position but Yama is retaining full guard.
Esponosa prevents Yama from getting back to his feet.
Yama pulls Esponosa in close to his closed guard and prevents Esponosa from doing any damage or advancing position.
Esponosa postures up.
Esponosa sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Yama is adopting a defensive guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Kotetsu Yama really dominated that round.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action.#R4#
Esponosa darts in trying to clinch
and Yama counters with a lovely straight right hand!
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Esponosa is defended easily by Yama.
Esponosa tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Yama defends well and Esponosa ends up having to push Yama into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Yama just stands there and leans against the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Yama holds him up against the cage and eventually Esponosa drops back down to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa is trying to pull guard but Yama turns him against the cage and we stay in the clinch.
Esponosa jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Yama walks away with a smile on his face. Esponosa gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
Esponosa throws a shot from downtown. Yama moves away and avoids it.#T1#
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Esponosa is defended easily by Yama.
Esponosa throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Yama's waist but Yama gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Esponosa off to one side.
Kotetsu Yama is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Esponosa doesn't manage to clinch there - Yama circles away.
It seemed like Yama was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Yama catches Esponosa with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Nice jab there from Yama.
Esponosa misses with a takedown
and Yama counters with a nice uppercut.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Esponosa ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Esponosa shoots in but no luck this time.
Esponosa tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Yama defends well and Esponosa ends up having to push Yama into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.#T2#
Yama gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Esponosa. #BC2#
Yama escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Yama has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Nice takedown defense from Yama. No joy for Esponosa on that attempt.
Esponosa fails with a takedown attempt.
Yama throws out a counter right but Esponosa avoids it with no problem.
Esponosa keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Esponosa tries for a takedown but Yama sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.#TD#
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.

Yama has scooted to the edge of the canvas and used the cage to get back to his feet. Esponosa has stuck on his opponent and is forcing him back against the cage.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#TD#
Esponosa pulls Yama into guard. #T3#
Yama is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions. #SUB#
Esponosa had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Yama defends it easily.#T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Yama is stalling in the full guard. #SUB#
Esponosa is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Yama defends well.
Yama wants to pass the guard but Esponosa is keeping the position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Esponosa working a defensive guard here. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Nice shot lands for Yama.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Kotetsu Yama dominated that fourth round.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R5#
Nice cross by Yama.
Esponosa shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Yama pinned against the cage. Yama gets the underhooks and manages to circle away. #TD#
Esponosa closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Yama did well to prevent Esponosa getting side control.
Yama wants to get back to full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Yama is looking to control Esponosa's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Yama avoid being mounted?
Yama gets full guard.
Yama pulls Esponosa in to control the position. #T1#
Yama keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully.
Yama trying to control the position here.
Esponosa looking to pass the guard.
Yama trying to control the position.
Esponosa trying to control but Yama is working from the bottom. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.#TD#
Esponosa shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Yama is trying to defend but Esponosa finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.#T2#
Yama is looking for a sweep. Esponosa is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Yama wants to control but Esponosa is keeping busy and won't allow it. #SUB#
Esponosa looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique.
Yama controlling the position for now.#T3#
Yama wants to improve his position but Esponosa is controlling well.
Esponosa stalling away here and it's allowed Yama to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
Kotetsu Yama is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Esponosa stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Yama swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Yama trying to keep a closed guard but Esponosa is proving a slippery customer.
Yama keeping full guard, as Esponosa tries to pass.
Yama keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.#T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
A punch lands to the side of Esponosa 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Esponosa tries to clinch but Yama is having none of it.
Esponosa tries to clinch
and Yama counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Yama paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Yama thuds a left hand into Esponosa's body.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Yama scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Esponosa doesn't seem bothered though.
Esponosa closes the distance and clinches up with Yama, looking for a takedown. Esponosa pushes Yama against the cage but Yama circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Ricardo Esponosa has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Esponosa throws a jab but it's blocked by Yama.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Anni Minnemäki scores the fight 45:50
Judge Ben Zyskovitsi scores the fight 45:50
Judge Roosa Järviläinen scores the fight 46:50

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Kotetsu Yama!
Kotetsu Yama is the new lightweight champion!
In defeat, Ricardo Esponosa stepped up to the mic, saying 'We’ll get it next time '.

Event: MMAHKI 28
Date: Feb 19, 2023

#R1#
Sitsongrit fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Esponosa manages to avoid it.#TD2#
Sitsongrit gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Sitsongrit pulls Esponosa in close to prevent any damage. #SUB2#
Esponosa thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Sitsongrit wants to sweep but no luck.
Sitsongrit keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sitsongrit is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Esponosa preventing the sweep. #T1#
Sitsongrit can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Esponosa controls the pace.
We must be close to a standup if these guys don't pick up the pace.
Esponosa throws a big elbow that misses.
Sitsongrit wants to get back to his feet but Esponosa is in a dominant position and won't allow it. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Esponosa dives in and grabs Sitsongrit's left leg, looking for a takedown. Sitsongrit pushes down on Esponosa's head and hops out.
Sitsongrit misses with a low kick.
We've been told by Sitsongrit's head coaches at Sitsongrit Gym that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Sitsongrit staying out of range there.
Sitsongrit half committed to a counter leg kick.
Sitsongrit misses the shot to the body.
Esponosa gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Esponosa takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #TD2#
Esponosa fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Sitsongrit to the ground. Esponosa is now in Sitsongrit's guard.#SUB2#
Esponosa drops back looking for a leg! Sitsongrit is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Sitsongrit manages to kick Esponosa off! Esponosa jumps back into Sitsongrit's guard. #T2##SUB2#
Esponosa drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Esponosa jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Sitsongrit keeping full guard, as Esponosa tries to pass.
Esponosa is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Sitsongrit tries to land a sweep but no joy. #T3#
Sitsongrit controlling Esponosa's posture.
Esponosa stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Sitsongrit swivels though and keeps the full guard.
We've been informed that Esponosa has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.
Sitsongrit is trying to keep Esponosa in close.
Esponosa stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Sitsongrit swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Sitsongrit keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Esponosa closes the distance looking to clinch
and Sitsongrit counters with a nice uppercut. #T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.#TD2#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Esponosa.
Esponosa throwing shots but missing, from side control.
Sitsongrit tries to escape but Esponosa is in control.
Sitsongrit defending against the ground and pound.
Sitsongrit wants to control but Esponosa postures up.#SUB2#
Esponosa thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Sitsongrit can't do much from the bottom here.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Esponosa dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2##TD2#
Esponosa shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
Sitsongrit is trying to escape back to his feet but Esponosa uses the scramble to pass into side control. #SUB2#
Esponosa is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Sitsongrit knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Sitsongrit tries to control but Esponosa manages to take his back.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Esponosa has his opponent's back and is working for the choke. #T1##SUB2#
Esponosa tightening his grip on Sitsongrit, looking for the choke. #SUB2#
Esponosa looking for the choke from the back.
Sitsongrit trying to control but not successfully.
Sitsongrit can't escape the position. #SUB2#
Esponosa is cranking Sitsongrit's head sideways - that looks painful. He's managed to get his other arm under the chin and this looks bad for Sitsongrit! He's tightened the choke and Sitsongrit is tapping out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:57 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Ricardo Esponosa!
Ricardo Esponosa is the new lightweight champion!
Ricardo Esponosa was full of energy after the big win and talked about how he thinks he can do big things in this sport. The crowd were appreciative of his determination to succeed.

Event: HFC 63: Ivanovic vs Chai 2
Date: Jan 08, 2023

#R1#
McBiden displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Esponosa.
Esponosa throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around McBiden's waist but McBiden gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Esponosa off to one side.
Esponosa shoots in but no luck this time.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Esponosa. That's going to take a lot out of him.
McBiden lands a head shot.
Esponosa tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but McBiden defends well and Esponosa ends up having to push McBiden into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.#TD#
Esponosa has McBiden pressed up against the cage. He's trying to work for a single leg takedown. Esponosa pulls back from the cage and twists to the side, sending McBiden tumbling to the mat - Esponosa dives into McBiden's guard.
Esponosa controls from within his opponent's guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa forces his way into half guard.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if McBiden can do anything to dispel that myth.
McBiden is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #T1#
Esponosa takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.
McBiden is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
McBiden has hold of Esponosa's hands but Esponosa slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
McBiden pushes Esponosa off looking to stand but Esponosa dives back in and keeps control. #SUB#
Esponosa maintaining the dominant position here and is working for a kimura. He's locked it up! McBiden could be in real trouble here! He's trying to wriggle out but Esponosa has cracked it and McBiden is screaming in pain - he's tapped out! Great finish by Esponosa!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Ricardo Esponosa!
A very excited looking Ricardo Esponosa rambled incoherently for about 5 minutes post fight about how awesome he is. It was kinda funny for a while but then everyone got annoyed.
The defeated Chester McBiden had this to say: 'what the point of living if it just endless cycle of suffering'.

Event: HFC 57: Ilmarinen vs Lake
Date: Dec 17, 2022

#R1#
Esponosa shoots in but Tucker avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Tucker just misses with a punch to the body.
Nice straight punches there by Esponosa. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Esponosa.#CL#
Tucker has closed the distance and engaged Esponosa in a clinch.
Esponosa is trying to pull guard but Tucker turns him against the cage and we stay in the clinch.#BC#
Tucker breaks the clinch. #CL#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Esponosa keeps control of Tucker as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks.
Tucker prevents a takedown attempt there.
Jerome Tucker has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Esponosa.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa jumps guard but Tucker stands there with Esponosa around his waist. Esponosa gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Esponosa tries to pull guard but Tucker won't allow it.
Esponosa jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Tucker walks away with a smile on his face. Esponosa gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
Tucker throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Esponosa. #T1#
Tucker throws a body kick that misses #TD2#
and Esponosa counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Esponosa. #SUB#
Tucker isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Esponosa stacks Tucker on his neck as he steps over and passes to the side. He's now in a much more dominant position where he can look to do some serious damage. Nice move by Esponosa!#SUB2#
Esponosa is trying to get an arm triangle but Tucker is defending well.
Esponosa moving around in side mount but really he's just happy to control for now.
Esponosa tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it. #T2##SUB2#
Esponosa wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Tucker, who protects the arm well.
Tucker tries to control but end up mounted... ooooh, that's bad.
Tucker in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Esponosa has isolated one of Tucker's arms. Tucker looking to fight him off but Esponosa twists into an armbar. It's tight... Will he tap?? YES, he's tapped! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ricardo Esponosa!
Ricardo Esponosa decided to hype himself up post fight. It was going well but he went on about it a bit too long and the crowd turned on him a little.
In defeat, Jerome Tucker stepped up to the mic, saying 'Growing up in my house, my father, who was a Pastor, said that violence was never the answer. Tonight I realised he was right. It was the question. It's always the question.'.

Event: HFC 50: Ilmarinen vs Holly
Date: Nov 19, 2022

#R1#
Esponosa lands with a straight right. Timms didn't see that one coming.
Timms takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.#CL2#
Esponosa rushes Timms and presses him up against the cage.
Timms is trying to slow down the pace in the clinch, to catch his breath.
Timms is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Esponosa lands an uppercut.
Esponosa gets underhooks to prevent Timms's takedown attempt.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Esponosa.
Timms working aggressively here.
Esponosa gets through Timms's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Esponosa scores with a shot to the side of Timms's head. #TD#
Timms has Esponosa pressed up against the cage. He's trying to work for a single leg takedown. Timms pulls back from the cage and twists to the side, sending Esponosa tumbling to the mat - Timms dives into Esponosa's guard.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Timms makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.#SUB2#
Timms avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #T1#
Timms trying to control but Esponosa is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Timms avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #SU#
Timms stands and steps away. Esponosa gets to his feet too and we're back to the striking game. #TD#
Timms closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Esponosa quickly recovers to half guard.#SUB2#
Esponosa looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Esponosa trying to control here. #T2#
Timms throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Esponosa gets full guard.#SUB2#
Esponosa is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Esponosa being controlled here, momentarily.
Esponosa working a defensive guard here.
Esponosa tries to land a sweep but no joy. #T3#
Timms working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Esponosa's head.#SUB2#
Esponosa is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Timms is aware though and is defending well.
Esponosa avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Timms looking to sit in guard and control but Esponosa gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB#
Timms wants to sweep here but Esponosa controlling him for the moment.
Esponosa trying to control but Timms is working from the bottom.
Timms has his hands on Esponosa's head, controlling the position.
Esponosa wants to control from the top but Timms keeps moving. #T4##SUB#
Timms working for a triangle but Esponosa defends it easily.
Timms keeping full guard, as Esponosa tries to pass.
Timms keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Timms looking to control.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Esponosa dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2##TD2#
Esponosa changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Timms looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.#SUB2#
Esponosa tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Timms managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Esponosa.
Timms gives up the full mount - oops, sloppy defensive grappling there!
Esponosa has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Esponosa controlling the position easily from mount.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa punching from mount but Timms doing a good job of avoiding damage. #SUB2#
Esponosa has control of Timms's right arm, working for a kimura. It's a bit of a token attempt though and Timms regains control of the situation pretty easily. #T1#
Esponosa can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Timms is looking to escape. #SUB2#
Esponosa jumps to side control looking for an arm triangle but Timms manages to avoid the submission attempt.
Timms is looking to reverse the position.
Esponosa wants to control but Timms is keeping him busy. #T2#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Timms sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Esponosa is controlling the pace.
Esponosa prevents Timms from improving his position.#SUB2#
Esponosa is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Timms is just riding it out for now. Esponosa eventually gives up the hold.
Timms has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Esponosa is working away from the top position though.#T3#
Timms is controlling Esponosa's trapped leg to prevent Esponosa from advancing to side control.
Esponosa passes to full mount!
Timms really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Esponosa looking to control but Timms is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Esponosa is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Timms really trying hard to get back to half guard here. #SUB2#
Timms reaches up to try and pull Esponosa in and control his posture, but Esponosa latches on to an arm and pivots quickly for an armbar! Timms taps out and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:32 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ricardo Esponosa!
Ricardo Esponosa spent the whole post fight interview bigging himself up. It didn't go down that well with the fans after a while as they thought it was a bit arrogant.

Event: HFC 43: Ilmarinen vs Babula
Date: Oct 23, 2022

#R1#
Handler avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Handler swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Esponosa.
Esponosa doesn't manage to clinch there - Handler circles away.
Esponosa is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Handler feints a jab promting Esponosa to slip. Handler then demonstrates his capabilities by jabbing again. Esponosa slips again and ducks right into an uppercut.
Handler scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
Handler looks to land a combination. Esponosa sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Handler stalks Esponosa and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Esponosa's face. Esponosa staggers backwards, shaken.
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!#CL#
Esponosa takes the fight into the clinch. #BC#
Esponosa escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Esponosa jabbing away but nothing is landing. #TD2#
Handler is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Esponosa's half guard.

Esponosa makes some distance and scrambles quickly back to his feet. Nice work!#T1#
Esponosa missing with a left hand there. Handler was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Esponosa looks to land a left hand but Handler moved out of range nicely.
Esponosa throws a series of punches but Handler moves out of range.
Handler lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Esponosa circles away quickly and effectively.
Handler throws a hook to the side of Esponosa's head but Esponosa sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Esponosa loads up on a big right hand but Handler slips the punch.
Handler moves away from the strike by Esponosa.
Esponosa moves in looking to clinch but Handler pushes him off.
Esponosa scores with a decent looking hook.
Handler slips a jab from Esponosa.
Handler moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Handler throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Some wild striking there from Handler.
Handler avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Esponosa wants to clinch up but Handler keeps it at a distance.
Handler scores to the head and body with a nice combination!#T2#
Esponosa waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Handler.
Esponosa's corner calls for a 1-2. Esponosa obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range. #TD2#
Handler looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Esponosa!
Esponosa tries to buck Handler off but Handler is having none of it.
You can see the frustration on Esponosa's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Esponosa tries to bench press Handler off him but Handler keeps the position.
Handler landing with strikes to the head and body from side control.
Esponosa is trying to improve his position.
Esponosa manages to get back to half guard.#T3#
Handler looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Handler is thwarting Esponosa's attempts to control the position.
Handler trying to control the action but Esponosa is working from the bottom.
Esponosa wants to get back to full guard.
Esponosa keeping control of the leg, stopping his opponent passing to mount.
Handler lands strikes from half guard.
Handler working over Esponosa with some ground and pound. Esponosa looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#SUB2#
Handler seems to be working for a kimura but Esponosa defends the submission attempt.
Esponosa wants to control but Handler is keeping busy. #T4#
Esponosa is controlling Handler's trapped leg to prevent Handler from advancing to side control.
Esponosa is pressing down on Handler's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.#SUB#
Handler avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Esponosa is trying to keep Handler in close.
Esponosa looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.
Handler lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Esponosa seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
Esponosa looking to control.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jacob Handler dominated that round.
That's time! Esponosa's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Handler lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Esponosa misses the jab.
Esponosa moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Handler cracks Esponosa with a right hand to the side of the head.#TD2#
Handler drives through with a takedown into Esponosa's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
Esponosa looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it. #SUB#
Handler avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Handler stands up over Esponosa, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Handler is working Esponosa over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Esponosa is trying to control the position but Handler postures up.
Esponosa keeping moving, preventing Handler from controlling successfully. #T1#
Handler wants to stand and escape but instead Esponosa has hit a sweep and he's now on top in guard. #REVR#
Esponosa passes into half guard.
Handler pushes Esponosa off looking to stand but Esponosa dives back in and keeps control.
Handler wants to get back to full guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Esponosa seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Handler does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #SUB2#
Handler is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Esponosa pulls his head out easily.
Esponosa stops Handler from getting back to his feet.
Handler is looking for a sweep. Esponosa is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Esponosa performing his best blanket impression for a moment.
Handler is staying active underneath Esponosa, who seems content to just control the action from this position. #T2#
Esponosa keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.#SUB2#
Handler actively working from the bottom here.
Handler tries to get to full guard but Esponosa has control of the leg.
Esponosa is looking to take a break and control but Handler is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
The referee is asking the fighters to pick up the pace.#SUB#
Esponosa seems to be working for a kimura but Handler defends the submission attempt.
Handler has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#SUB2#
Handler looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB2#
Handler looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#T3#
Esponosa prevents Handler from improving his position.#SU#
Esponosa postures up and decides to stand up, from the half guard. The ref calls for Handler to stand up.
Esponosa steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Handler.
Esponosa takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Esponosa tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Esponosa tries to score with an inside leg kick but telegraphs it and Handler is able to avoid easily.
Handler with the counter takedown but Esponosa avoids it easily.
Handler throws a shot from downtown. Esponosa moves away and avoids it.
Jacob Handler is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Handler scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
Handler staying out of range there.
Handler connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Esponosa momentarily.
Esponosa takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Esponosa drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Handler defending well as Esponosa loads up on a big left hand.
Handler changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Esponosa swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Esponosa is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.#T4#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Handler cracks Esponosa with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Ricardo Esponosa is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Handler uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Esponosa.
Esponosa takes one to the side of the head.
Esponosa ducks under a wild hook from Handler.
Handler moves away from the strike by Esponosa.
Handler has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Esponosa dodges the punch combination from Handler.
Esponosa takes one to the chin there.
Handler lands a jab-cross combination. #ROC2#Esponosa is rocked!
Handler misses with a wild combination.
Left hook, right uppercut from Handler.
Oh Esponosa is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Esponosa misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jacob Handler showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! And we move into the final round!#R3#
Handler missing with a left hand there. Esponosa was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Esponosa seems to have got his legs back now.
Handler throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Esponosa.
Esponosa misses with an uppercut. Handler saw that one coming.
Esponosa slips a jab and a cross from Handler.
Handler throws a hook to the side of Esponosa's head but Esponosa sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.#CL#
Esponosa closes the distance and clinches.#BC2#
Handler pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Handler looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
The fight stays on the outside here - Esponosa looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Handler bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa misses with a few strikes there. #CL#
Esponosa moves into range and clinches up with Handler.#BC#
Esponosa pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Esponosa looks to land a right hand but Handler moved out of range.
Jacob Handler seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Handler uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Esponosa.
Handler feints the counter takedown.
Esponosa with a jab.#T1#
Handler circles away from the clinch attempt.
Esponosa missing with a left hand there. Handler was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
And Handler tries to counter it with a takedown but Esponosa pushes his down on his head and steps out.
A punch combination from Handler misses.
Esponosa dodges the punch combination from Handler.
Esponosa on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Handler slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Esponosa looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Handler slips under a jab from Esponosa.
Handler circles away from the clinch attempt.
Esponosa tried to score with a low kick but Handler checks it.
A big right from Esponosa misses. #TD2#
Handler throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Esponosa tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Handler is in Esponosa's guard.
Handler stopping the sweep attempt from Esponosa.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Handler's corner. There ya go! There ya go! #T2#
Esponosa looking to control.
Handler throws a strike but Esponosa rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVR#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#SUB2#
Handler looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Esponosa engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Handler keeping moving, preventing Esponosa from controlling successfully.
Esponosa's corner is telling him to maintain position.#SUB2#
Handler working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Esponosa doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Esponosa manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #SUB2#
Handler is looking for a triangle here but Esponosa uses the submission attempt to pass into side control. #T3#
Esponosa trying to control the action but Handler is working from the bottom.
Handler is trying to buck Esponosa off.
Handler is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Handler is trying to control Esponosa's posture but Esponosa avoids it.
Handler is trying to get back to half guard.
Esponosa is looking to take a break and control but Handler is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Handler is looking to reverse the position.#SU#
Esponosa stands up and beckons Handler to his feet.
Esponosa takes a swing at Handler's ribcage but misses.
Esponosa tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Handler paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Handler swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Esponosa throws an overhand right that lands on Handler's shoulder, as Handler tries to avoid the shot.
Esponosa looks to throw the jab but Handler is out of range.
Esponosa takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Esponosa throws a looping overhand right but Handler ducks down to avoid it.
Esponosa missing with a left hand there. Handler was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Handler lands an overhand right.
Ricardo Esponosa has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Esponosa throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Handler steps in looking to clinch after the strikes miss from Esponosa.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.

Judge Steve Smith scores the fight for Jacob Handler!
Judge Alec Ball scores the fight for Jacob Handler!
Judge Gregory Folan scores the fight for Jacob Handler!

Jacob Handler wins by unanimous decision!
An out of breath Jacob Handler thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.
Ricardo Esponosa spoke after the fight, saying 'We’ll get it next time '.

Event: HFC 36: Ilmarinen vs Tintley 2
Date: Sep 25, 2022

#R1#
Black misses with a lunging right hand #TD#
and Esponosa counters with a shoot takedown. Black fights it but they end up in guard. #SUB2#
Black has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Esponosa can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Esponosa trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Esponosa is stalling in the full guard. #SUB2#
Black is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Esponosa defends well.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Black has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Esponosa can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #T1#
Esponosa controls from within his opponent's guard.
Esponosa advances position into side control!
Esponosa just content to control the position. #SUB#
Esponosa wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Black, who protects the arm well. #SUB#
Esponosa tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Esponosa has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Black trying to control but Esponosa flips him over like a cheap hooker and has his back!
Esponosa not allowing Black to control his hands.
Esponosa trying to secure his dominant position for a moment - making sure Black doesn't escape. #T3#
Black tries to escape the position - he's now mounted. Is that better or worse? Hard to tell!
Black is working to get back to half guard.
Black slips a leg in and gets back to half guard.
Esponosa is thwarting Black's attempts to control the position.
Black is looking for a sweep. Esponosa is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Black wants to control but Esponosa is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Black wants to improve his position but Esponosa is controlling well. #T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.#SUB#
Esponosa seems to be working for a kimura but Black defends the submission attempt.
Black trying to control here. #SUB2#
Black looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.
Esponosa controlling the action here. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Esponosa connects with a single shot there.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Esponosa 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#
Esponosa jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Black slips a jab from Esponosa.
Black throws a leg kick but Esponosa sees it coming and moves out of range. #CL#
Esponosa gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.#BC#
Esponosa breaks from the clinch.
Black throws out a loose jab but Esponosa uses good head movement to avoid it. #CL#
Esponosa gets in close and instigates a clinch. #BC#
Esponosa breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Esponosa scores with a three punch combo!
Esponosa misses the shot to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#CL#
Esponosa clinches with his opponent. #BC#
Esponosa manages to break the clinch.
Black swings widly with a right hand #TD#
and Esponosa counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Esponosa trying to mount his opponent but Black defends it. #SUB2#
Black looking for submissions off his back.#T1#
Esponosa seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense. #SUB#
Esponosa is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Esponosa is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for Black!
Black is looking to improve his position but Esponosa isn't that keen on the idea.#T2#
There's not a lot going on here and the crowd are letting the fighters know they're not willing to tolerate a lack of action.
Esponosa seems to be looking to move to his opponent's back but Black is holding on tight.
Esponosa avoids the attempt from Black to control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Esponosa looking to control and managing it successfully.
Black is desperately trying to improve his position but Esponosa has a good base and remains in mount.#T3#
Black is trying to reverse the position but instead Esponosa has taken his back - oops!
You know, I was talking to some of our celebrities at ringside tonight and they were split right down the middle on who was going to win this fight.
Esponosa's ground tactics aren't going to win him many fans. Let's hope he's got fireworks for us if he gets back to his feet because he's not doing much on the ground.#SUB#
Esponosa 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, Black has freed his hand and lives to survive another… well, another couple of seconds at least!
Black turns into Esponosa and is now in his guard. #T4#
Esponosa has his hands on Black's head, controlling the position. #SUB#
Esponosa working for submissions but it's allowed Black to get to half guard.
Esponosa slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Esponosa controls Black momentarily but Black frees himself.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Esponosa dominated that second round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! This is the final round!#R3#
Esponosa throws a body punch but Black moves out of range.
Black throws a leg kick that is checked#TD#
and Esponosa counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Black!
Esponosa is staying tight to Black's torso, preventing him from escaping.
Black is looking for a sweep.
Black manages to work his way to half guard, despite Esponosa's best efforts.
Esponosa missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Black wants to get back to full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Esponosa perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there. #SUB#
Esponosa seems to be working for a kimura but Black defends the submission attempt.#SUB2#
Black actively working from the bottom here.#T1#
Black trying to control here.
The referee calls for the fighters to work. #SU#
Esponosa gets to his feet - back to striking we go!
Black slips a straight right by Esponosa.
Esponosa just misses with a punch to the body.
Esponosa is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Black can do to turn this around?
Black throws a low kick but Esponosa avoids it.
Esponosa misses the jab.
Black misses with a leg kick. #T2#
Esponosa avoids the head kick by Black.
Esponosa throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
And Black tries to counter it with a takedown but Esponosa pushes his down on his head and steps out.#CL#
Esponosa has closed the distance and engaged Black in a clinch.
Esponosa prevents Black from breaking the clinch.#BC#
Esponosa's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Esponosa lands a glancing blow to the side of Black's head.
Black just misses with a punch to the body.
Black misses the shot to the body.
Esponosa connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Black momentarily. #CL#
Esponosa clinches with his opponent. #BC#
Esponosa pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.#CL#
Esponosa clinches up with Black and pushes him back against the cage.
This has been an exciting period of action!#BC#
Esponosa pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Black uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Esponosa.
Ricardo Esponosa is winning the standup battle so far.#T3#
Black tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Esponosa was well out of range. Poor timing from Black.
Esponosa throws a hook to the side of Black's head but Black sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Black moves forwards but Esponosa connects with a nice, crisp jab.#CL#
Esponosa has closed the distance and engaged Black in a clinch. #BC#
Esponosa breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Black defending well as Esponosa loads up on a big left hand.
Black with the counter takedown but Esponosa avoids it easily.
Esponosa misses with a straight left.
A low kick from Black misses #TD#
and Esponosa counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Black has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Esponosa is working away from the top position though.
Esponosa passes to side control.
Esponosa advances nicely into full mount. #T4#
Esponosa controlling from the full mount.
Ricardo Esponosa overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Esponosa throws some wild stikes that Black manages to avoid easily.
Black stops Esponosa from taking his back. Still, being mounted isn't any better.
Esponosa controlling the pace for now.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Alec Ball scores the fight for Ricardo Esponosa!
Judge Robert Douchet scores the fight for Ricardo Esponosa!
Judge Yves DeLean scores the fight for Ricardo Esponosa!

Ricardo Esponosa wins by unanimous decision!
In his post fight interview, Ricardo Esponosa started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.
Devon Black spoke after the fight, saying 'Esponosa was a fierce opponent! I didn't expect the fight to go any different. Best of luck to Ricardo's career!'.

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