Play by Play - Manager's Fight Commentary

Event: The Island Season 9, 145 lbs, Round 3
Date: May 06, 2019

#R1#
A jab from Vladislavovich misses.
Eugen swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Vladislavovich misses with a looping left.
A little jabbing left from Eugen on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Vladislavovich tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Eugen defends well and Vladislavovich ends up having to push Eugen into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Vladislavovich definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Vladislavovich misses with a takedown
and Eugen counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Vladislavovich uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Eugen.
Vladislavovich takes one on the button.#CUT2#
It looks like Kaverin Vladislavovich has been cut.
Eugen is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Vladislavovich.
Vladislavovich fails with a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Kaverin Vladislavovich. That's going to take a lot out of him.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Vladislavovich throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Eugen's waist but Eugen gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Vladislavovich off to one side.
Vladislavovich misses with an uppercut
and Eugen counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Eugen gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Vladislavovich.#TD#
Vladislavovich shoots in for a takedown and gets it.#T1##SUB#
Vladislavovich is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Eugen doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Vladislavovich. #SUB#
Vladislavovich is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Eugen defends it well.
Vladislavovich seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Eugen does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #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.
Eugen tries to get to full guard but Vladislavovich has control of the leg. #SUB#
Vladislavovich is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Eugen doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Vladislavovich.
Vladislavovich wants to free his trapped foot but Eugen is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Eugen is doing well to control the position and prevent Vladislavovich from advancing to side control.#T3##SUB#
Vladislavovich is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #SUB#
Vladislavovich is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Eugen defends it well.
Eugen wants to control but Vladislavovich is keeping busy and won't allow it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Vladislavovich is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Eugen is just riding it out for now. Vladislavovich eventually gives up the hold. #SUB#
Vladislavovich is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Eugen has managed to free his arm - good work. #T4#
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.
Vladislavovich is pressing down on Eugen's thigh, looking to free his foot. Eugen is holding on for now.
Eugen is not content to let Vladislavovich control the position.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Eugen can do anything to dispel that myth.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB#
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Vladislavovich is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Eugen doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Vladislavovich.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kaverin Vladislavovich dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Kaverin Vladislavovich's cut.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action.
#R2#
Eugen misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
A punch combination from Eugen misses.
Eugen displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Vladislavovich.
The fighters circling - Eugen throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Vladislavovich moves out of range of the strikes.
Vladislavovich throws an overhand right that lands on Eugen's shoulder, as Eugen tries to avoid the shot.
Eugen waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Vladislavovich.
Vladislavovich rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Eugen counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
The fighters circling - Vladislavovich throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Eugen throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Eugen lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Vladislavovich circles away quickly and effectively.
Vladislavovich needs to keep his hands up - Eugen had a free shot at his head there.#T1#
Vladislavovich pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Vladislavovich is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Eugen.
Vladislavovich throws a poor cross that misses
and Eugen counters with a straight right hand.
Eugen lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Eugen uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Vladislavovich.
Eugen slips a straight right by Vladislavovich.
Eugen loads up on a big right hand but Vladislavovich slips the punch.
Vladislavovich attempts a counter takedown but Eugen avoids it well and moves away.
Vladislavovich shoots in for a double leg but Eugen sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Vladislavovich goes for a double leg but Eugen avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Eugen continues to drive forward.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Eugen! But no joy.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Kaverin Vladislavovich. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Eugen connects with a right hand. Vladislavovich shakes it off.
Vladislavovich throws a hook to the side of Eugen's head but Eugen sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Eugen moves out of range as Vladislavovich strikes.
Eugen has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#T2#
Vladislavovich uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Eugen.
Vladislavovich drops down looking for a counter takedown but Eugen sprawls and moves away.
Eugen slaps away a takedown attempt from Vladislavovich, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Eugen works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Martin Eugen is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Vladislavovich has his takedown stuffed
and Vladislavovich takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Eugen connects with a good right hand that stumbles Vladislavovich. Vladislavovich circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Vladislavovich is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Eugen lands with a nice body punch.
Nice sprawl there from Eugen as Vladislavovich shoots in.
Eugen looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Vladislavovich shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Eugen makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Vladislavovich staying out of range there.#T3#
Eugen throws a big shot that misses.
The fighters circling - Eugen throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Vladislavovich connects with a looping right hand.
Donk. Eugen catches Vladislavovich right on the button with a cross.
Eugen throws a good cross that connects.
Eugen pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Eugen slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.#ROC2#
Vladislavovich is rocked!
Eugen lands an uppercut out of nowhere! Vladislavovich falls backwards - clearly groggy! Eugen dives in and finishes the fight with more strikes for a TKO finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:44 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Martin Eugen!
A victorious Martin Eugen thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

Event: The Island Season 9, 155 lbs, Round 3
Date: May 06, 2019

#R1##TD2#
Smith shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Smith throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Smith landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Smith throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man. #SUB#
Stepanovich actively working from the bottom here.
Stepanovich trying to control from the bottom. #SUB#
Stepanovich is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Smith pulls his head out easily.
Smith seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Smith takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.
Stepanovich taking some punishment here, with Smith in his half guard.
Smith thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Smith wants to lay and pray for a moment but Stepanovich keeps working. #T1#
Stepanovich taking some punishment here, with Smith in his half guard.
Smith working the head and body with strikes.
Smith throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Smith landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Stepanovich wants to control but Smith is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Smith looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Stepanovich with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Ground and pound from Smith.
Smith is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Smith lands a nice short elbow.
Smith scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Stepanovich wants to get back to full guard.
Smith trying to pass the guard but Stepanovich defending well. #T2#
Smith performing his best blanket impression for a moment.
Stepanovich taking some punishment here, with Smith in his half guard.
Smith drops an elbow to the side of Stepanovich's head.
Smith is trying to control. Stepanovich wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Smith is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Stepanovich taking some punishment here, with Smith in his half guard.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.#SUB#
Stepanovich looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Stepanovich moves into full guard.
Stepanovich is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Smith looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.#T3#
Stepanovich looking to hit a scissor sweep but Smith is one step ahead there.
Smith trying to control but Stepanovich is working from the bottom.
Smith looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
Smith is in close to Stepanovich's body, working some short punches and elbows.#T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Smith scoring with some ground and pound. #SUB#
Stepanovich throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
We've been hearing good reports from Stepanovich's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
Smith tries to free his leg and advance position but Stepanovich is retaining full guard.
Stepanovich not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Smith working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Smith keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Stepanovich's head.#SUB#
Stepanovich has his foot on Smith's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Smith works his way back into a safe position though.
Smith lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Smith is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Smith trying to control the position from guard on top but Stepanovich is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Smith lands a couple of elbows.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

James Smith dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!
#R2#
Smith shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Stepanovich pinned against the cage. Stepanovich gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Nice straight punches there by Stepanovich. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Stepanovich.#TD2#
Smith scores with a takedown into Stepanovich's guard.
Smith must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Smith with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Smith trying to control the position from guard on top but Stepanovich is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Smith is in close to Stepanovich's body, working some short punches and elbows.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Smith trying to control the position from guard on top but Stepanovich is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB#
Stepanovich escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Smith gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance. #SUB#
Stepanovich escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Smith gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance. #T1#
Smith slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Stepanovich is trying to get back to half guard.
Stepanovich on the wrong end of some ground and pound.
Smith working the head and body with strikes.
Smith has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Stepanovich sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Ground and pound from Smith.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Smith connects with a nice short shot to Stepanovich's temple.
Stepanovich taking some punishment here, with Smith in his half guard. #T2#
Smith takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Stepanovich is trying to maintain the position but Smith is very close to passing his half guard.
Smith prevents Stepanovich from improving his position.
Smith wants to pass to mount but Stepanovich is defending the position. #SUB#
Stepanovich actively working from the bottom here.
Stepanovich trying to control here.
Smith 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.
Smith is trying to control the action in half guard but Stepanovich is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #T3#
Stepanovich is looking to improve his position. #SUB#
Stepanovich is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Smith pulls his head out easily.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Smith connects with a nice short shot to Stepanovich's temple.
Smith lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Smith working Stepanovich over with strikes.
Stepanovich wants to improve his position but Smith is controlling well.
Smith 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#
Stepanovich looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Smith lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Smith working over Stepanovich with some ground and pound. Stepanovich looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#T4#
Stepanovich is looking to control Smith's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Stepanovich avoid being mounted?
Nice strikes from Smith there.
Smith winds up and cracks Stepanovich with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Smith working Stepanovich over with strikes.
Smith is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Smith lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt. #ROC2#
Stepanovich is rocked!#SUB#
Stepanovich looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

James Smith 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#
Smith displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Stepanovich.
Stepanovich stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Stepanovich wants it to stay on the feet.
Smith shoots in but Stepanovich avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Smith shoots in for a takedown but Stepanovich shows good takedown defense.
Nevzorov Stepanovich has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of James Smith.
Smith fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Stepanovich shoots in but Smith avoids the takedown attempt easily.
A jab from Stepanovich finds it's way through Smith's defenses.
Stepanovich lands with a straight right. Smith didn't see that one coming.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#TD2#
Smith shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
Smith is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound. #SUB#
Stepanovich is looking for a triangle but Smith pushes his legs off easily.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Stepanovich looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Smith puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard. #T1#
Smith lands strikes from half guard.
Stepanovich has hold of Smith's hands but Smith slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Smith is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound. #SUB#
Stepanovich looking for submissions off his back.
Smith is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
James Smith has got the better of the ground game so far.
Stepanovich slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Stepanovich can't keep his opponent in guard - Smith advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Smith looks to score some points with some ground and pound.#T2#
Ground and pound from Smith.
Smith is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Smith lands a nice short elbow.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Smith lands a nice short elbow.
Smith lands strikes from half guard.
Stepanovich is not content to let Smith control the position.#SUB#
Stepanovich looking for submissions off his back.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Smith lands a nice short elbow.#SUB#
Stepanovich actively working from the bottom here.
Smith lands with a punch from half guard. #T3#
Smith lands strikes from half guard.
Stepanovich is not content to let Smith control the position.
Smith is nestled in close to Stepanovich, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Oh Stepanovich is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Smith seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Stepanovich is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Smith scores with a couple of nice shots.
Nevzorov Stepanovich has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Smith lands a big elbow from half guard. That looks like it's hurt Stepanovich quite badly. Stepanovich pulls Smith in close trying to recover. Smith postures up and lands two really hard shots that put Stepanovich on queer street! The ref takes a look and decides to call an end to the fight! Possibly an early stoppage but Stepanovich doesn't seem to be complaining too much.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:51 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). James Smith!

Event: The Island Season 9, 170 lbs, Round 3
Date: May 06, 2019

#R1#
Filippovich throws the left hand but Murderer avoids the punch easily.
Murderer appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
We've been hearing reports that Murderer has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.#TD2#
Filippovich shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Murderer napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Murderer tries to buck Filippovich off but Filippovich is having none of it.#SUB2#
Filippovich thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Murderer sneaks back into half guard.#SUB2#
Filippovich is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Murderer is just riding it out for now. Filippovich eventually gives up the hold.
Murderer slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Murderer working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Filippovich doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Filippovich manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #T1#
Murderer has his hands on Filippovich's head, controlling the position. #SUB#
Murderer isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Filippovich stacks Murderer 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 Filippovich!#SUB2#
Filippovich wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Murderer, who protects the arm well.
Murderer tries to buck Filippovich off but Filippovich is having none of it.#T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Filippovich gets to mount! Murderer was on the offensive and wasn't defending properly.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Murderer prevents Filippovich from taking his back.
Filippovich trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Murderer is in all sorts of trouble here.
Murderer bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
Murderer pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Filippovich is keeping the position for now. #SUB2#
Filippovich has an omoplata and is looking to use it perhaps as a submission or perhaps to transition. Murderer is in a bit of discomfort here, but he's managed to free himself and has dived into side control! That didn't work out too well for Filippovich.
Murderer trying to control the action but Filippovich is working from the bottom. #T3#
Murderer has knee on belly and now moves to full mount! Trouble for Filippovich!
Murderer can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Filippovich is looking to escape.
Murderer controlling his opponent.
Murderer is stalling here but it's allowed Filippovich to get half guard.
Murderer looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#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.
Filippovich moves into full guard.
Filippovich keeping full guard, as Murderer tries to pass. #SUB2#
Filippovich working for a triangle but Murderer defends it easily.
Filippovich wants to control the position but Murderer says "no thanks buddy" and passes to half guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Filippovich is not content to let Murderer control the position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Drotenkov Filippovich will probably get the nod.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!
#R2#
Filippovich stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Filippovich wants it to stay on the feet.
The fighters circling - Filippovich throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Murderer fails with a takedown attempt.
Murderer takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Murderer darts in looking for a takedown but Filippovich gets double underhooks and turns Murderer into the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Bjj Murderer. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Filippovich throws a hook but Murderer blocks it.
Murderer blocks a jab.
Filippovich with a jab.
Filippovich has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Murderer misses with a takedown attempt - Filippovich sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Filippovich changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Filippovich throws a shot from downtown. Murderer moves away and avoids it.
Murderer half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
No luck for Murderer with that takedown attempt. #T1#
Filippovich cracks Murderer with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Filippovich throws a hook but Murderer blocks it.
Murderer feinted with a counter takedown.
Nice sprawl there from Filippovich as Murderer shoots in.#TD2#
Filippovich shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Murderer is trying to defend but Filippovich finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Murderer is trying to control but can't. #SUB2#
Filippovich is trying to work for a kimura but Murderer is defending well. #SUB2#
Murderer is defending against the submission attempts here by Filippovich.
Murderer wants to improve his position but Filippovich is controlling well. #T2#
Filippovich is looking to take a break and control but Murderer is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Murderer manages to get to full guard. #SUB#
Murderer looking to try and escape his hips here, looking for a submission. It looks like he's going for a triangle but Filippovich is defending well. Murderer quickly switches to an armbar and extends the arm! Filippovich has no choice but to tap, to a very quick submission! Wow, that was lightning fast! Murderer celebrates on the cage, with the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:50 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Bjj Murderer!
A relieved looking Bjj Murderer thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

Event: The Island Season 9, 135 lbs, Round 2
Date: May 05, 2019

#R1#
Muramasa uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Larionovich.
A swing and a miss from Larionovich.
Muramasa looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Larionovich is fending him off so far but Muramasa persists. Nope, Larionovich circles away and we're back to standing.
A slow jab from Larionovich misses its intended target.
Larionovich looks to land a left hand but Muramasa moved out of range nicely.
The fighters circling - Muramasa throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Muramasa throws a hook but Larionovich avoids it easily.
Muramasa takes a jab right on the kisser.
Muramasa swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Larionovich misses with an uppercut.
Muramasa keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Larionovich.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nice takedown defense from Larionovich. No joy for Muramasa on that attempt. #TD#
Muramasa gets caught flat footed, as Larionovich shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.#SUB2#
Muramasa working for a triangle but Larionovich defends it easily.
Larionovich trying to control the position from guard on top but Muramasa is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T1##SUB2#
Muramasa had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Larionovich defends it easily.
Muramasa keeping moving, preventing Larionovich from controlling successfully.
Muramasa has his hands on Larionovich's head, controlling the position. #SUB#
Larionovich drops back looking for a leg! Muramasa is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Muramasa manages to kick Larionovich off! Larionovich jumps back into Muramasa's guard.
Muramasa is trying to keep Larionovich in close. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Larionovich is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Muramasa has been taking part in the yoga sessions down at Temp Spar Gym. Presumably he's going to look for a slick submission... Or maybe he's looking to avoid one.#SUB2#
Muramasa is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Larionovich defends well.
Muramasa manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Larionovich manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Larionovich looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening. #SUB#
Larionovich has his foot on Muramasa's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Muramasa works his way back into a safe position though.#T3#
Muramasa trying to control but Larionovich is working from the bottom.
Larionovich can't keep his opponent in guard - Muramasa advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Muramasa seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Larionovich does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #SUB#
Larionovich looking for submissions off his back.#SUB2#
Muramasa is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #SUB#
Larionovich is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Muramasa pulls his head out easily. #T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Muramasa wants to pass to mount but Larionovich is defending the position.
Larionovich definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.#SUB2#
Muramasa is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Larionovich doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Muramasa. #SUB2#
Muramasa is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Larionovich has managed to free his arm - good work. #SUB2#
Muramasa is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB2#
Muramasa is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Bobrov Larionovich dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!
#R2#
A punch lands to the side of Larionovich 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Larionovich shoots in but no luck this time. #TD#
Larionovich is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Muramasa's half guard.#SUB#
Larionovich wants to work for an arm triangle but Muramasa is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt. #SUB#
Muramasa is defending against the submission attempts here by Larionovich.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Muramasa has a hand on Larionovich's thigh, trying to get back to full guard. Larionovich takes advantage of the position though and mounts him!#T1##SUB#
Larionovich goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Muramasa turns into him and now he's in Larionovich's guard.
Muramasa trying to control but Larionovich is working from the bottom.
Muramasa advances to half guard. #SUB2#
Muramasa is looking for a kimura but Larionovich is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Muramasa to get the leverage. #SUB#
Larionovich is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Muramasa pulls his head out easily. #SUB2#
Muramasa is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Larionovich doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Muramasa. #SUB2#
Muramasa seems to be looking for submissions. #T2##SUB2#
Muramasa looking for a submission but Larionovich manages to get full guard, putting an end to that submission attempt. #SUB#
Larionovich is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Larionovich trying to control the position.
Muramasa passes into half guard.
Bobrov Larionovich overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Muramasa tries to pass the half guard into mount. Larionovich knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt. #T3##SUB2#
Larionovich is defending against the submission attempts here by Muramasa. #SUB#
Larionovich is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Muramasa pulls his head out easily. #SUB2#
Muramasa is working for a submission of some sort. #SUB2#
Muramasa is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game. #T4#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Larionovich trying to control but Muramasa postures up.
Larionovich wants to improve his position but Muramasa is controlling well.
Muramasa seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Larionovich does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Larionovich trying to hold on to Muramasa's head to control him but Muramasa postures up. #SUB#
Larionovich looking for submissions off his back.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Miyazawa Muramasa will probably get the nod - 10:9.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. This is the final round!
#R3#
Larionovich throws a right hand that misses #TD2#
and Muramasa counters with a shoot takedown. Larionovich fights it but they end up in guard. #SUB2#
Muramasa drops back looking for a leg! Larionovich is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Larionovich manages to kick Muramasa off! Muramasa jumps back into Larionovich's guard.
Muramasa trying to control the position from guard on top but Larionovich is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Larionovich trying to control the position. #SUB2#
Muramasa thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Larionovich trying to keep a closed guard but Muramasa is proving a slippery customer. #SUB#
Larionovich working for a triangle but Muramasa defends it easily. #T1#
Muramasa postures up.
Larionovich being controlled here, momentarily. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Larionovich moves away from the strike by Muramasa.
Muramasa uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Larionovich.
A telegraphed right hand from Muramasa misses the target. #TD#
Larionovich shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Muramasa napping and manages to drive through into side control!#T2#
Muramasa tries to buck Larionovich off but Larionovich is having none of it.#SUB#
Larionovich wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Muramasa, who protects the arm well.
Muramasa is looking for a sweep.#SUB#
Larionovich goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Muramasa has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Larionovich but great work by Muramasa.
Larionovich tries to buck Muramasa off but Muramasa is having none of it.#T3##SUB2#
Muramasa is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Larionovich knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Larionovich tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Larionovich is working hard here to advance position.#SUB2#
Muramasa tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
You can see the frustration on Larionovich's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Larionovich tries to get back to half guard but can't.
The referee tells the fighters to keep busy.
You can see the frustration on Larionovich's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#SUB2#
Muramasa thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead. #SUB2#
Muramasa is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Larionovich has escaped the position, nice work there.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Larionovich tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Muramasa wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.

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

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

Judge Dirk Anderson scores the fight for Miyazawa Muramasa!
Judge David Hoff scores the fight for Miyazawa Muramasa!
Judge Winston Alpacca scores the fight for Miyazawa Muramasa!

Miyazawa Muramasa wins by unanimous decision!
A relieved looking Miyazawa Muramasa thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

Event: The Island Season 9, 145 lbs, Round 2
Date: May 05, 2019

#R1#
Vladislavovich misses with a right hand
and McCraw counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
McCraw with a hook.
McCraw loads up on a big right hand but Vladislavovich slips the punch.
McCraw misses with a wild body shot.
A jab from McCraw misses.
McCraw has been spending a lot of time sparring his boxing in the run up to the fight, trying to sharpen up those hands and look for a knockout.
Vladislavovich misses with an uppercut.
A swing and a miss from Vladislavovich.
McCraw throws a body punch but Vladislavovich moves out of range.
Vladislavovich waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract McCraw.
Vladislavovich moves out of range of the strikes.
McCraw ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
McCraw leaves Vladislavovich with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Teller McCraw seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Vladislavovich throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Vladislavovich looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Vladislavovich definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
McCraw slips under a jab.
McCraw throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #T1#
McCraw throws a hook but Vladislavovich avoids it easily.
Vladislavovich tries to counter with a takedown but McCraw is quick to defend against it.
McCraw moves out of range of the strikes.
McCraw throws a big shot that misses.
Nice straight punches there by McCraw. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of McCraw.
Vladislavovich throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
McCraw clobbers Vladislavovich with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
McCraw misses with a looping right.
McCraw ducks under a wild hook from Vladislavovich.
McCraw throws an overhand right that lands on Vladislavovich's shoulder, as Vladislavovich tries to avoid the shot.
McCraw scores with a jab. Vladislavovich acknowledges it with a nod of the head. #TD#
Vladislavovich shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
McCraw is looking to improve his position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#T2#
Vladislavovich uses his free foot to push down on McCraw's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for McCraw. #SUB#
Vladislavovich working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet. #SUB#
Vladislavovich swings around for an armbar and he's got it! Wow, that came out of nowhere! What a finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:45 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Kaverin Vladislavovich!
After the fight, Kaverin Vladislavovich was humble in paying tribute to his opponent but made it clear he wants to go on to bigger and better things. It seemed to go down well with the crowd who cheered him loudly.

Event: The Island Season 9, 155 lbs, Round 2
Date: May 05, 2019

#R1#
Wills misses with a straight right.
Stepanovich changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Stepanovich bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
The fighters circling - Wills throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Wills moves away from the strike by Stepanovich.
Wills has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Yaw-Yan Ardigma in the buildup to the fight.
Stepanovich shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Wills pinned against the cage. Wills gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Donk. Stepanovich catches Wills right on the button with a cross.
Stepanovich throws a lazy right hand but Wills sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Stepanovich has been spending a lot of time sparring his boxing in the run up to the fight, trying to sharpen up those hands and look for a knockout.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Wills throws a jab but it's blocked by Stepanovich.
Stepanovich looks to land a left hand but Wills moved out of range nicely.#TD2#
Stepanovich shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Wills's guard.
Wills has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Stepanovich has passed into side control. #SUB2#
Stepanovich thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead. #T1#
Wills wants to control but Stepanovich postures up.
Wills tries to improve position but can't.
Wills knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Stepanovich on the ground.#SUB2#
Stepanovich goes for an armbar! This could be all over! Wait, no, Wills rolls with the submission and now he's on top in Stepanovich's guard! Nice work there by Wills! #SUB2#
Stepanovich looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Stepanovich tries to land a sweep but no joy. #T2#
Stepanovich working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Wills. #SUB2#
Wills is trying to tuck his arms in to keep them safe but Stepanovich has managed to isolate one of them and has got a loose triangle. Wills is looking to defend but Stepanovich has done well to lock his legs together - this could be big trouble for Wills! Stepanovich pulls down on the head and a little smile comes across his face - he knows he's got it. Yep, Wills taps out and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:31 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Nevzorov Stepanovich!
Nevzorov Stepanovich 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: The Island Season 9, 170 lbs, Round 2
Date: May 05, 2019

#R1#
Filippovich misses with a looping left.
Filippovich on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.#TD2#
Filippovich is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Pelayo's half guard.
Pelayo trying to hold on to Filippovich's head to control him but Filippovich postures up.
Pelayo is not content to let Filippovich control the position.
My spies in Temp Spar Gym inform me that Filippovich has been getting involved in the gym's BJJ sparring sessions. Let's see whether that pays dividends!
Pelayo tries to get to full guard but Filippovich has control of the leg.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Pelayo is refusing to be controlled, as Filippovich sits in half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Pelayo is looking to improve his position. #SUB2#
Filippovich is working for a submission here. He's got hold of the far side arm and he's looking for a kimura. He's cranking on the arm and he's got it! Pelayo is tapping out! Ouch, that looked like it hurt!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:18 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Drotenkov Filippovich!
Drotenkov Filippovich 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: The Island Season 9, 265+ lbs, Round 2
Date: May 05, 2019

#R1#
Artemovich misses with a body shot
and Grano cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#CUT#
It looks like Isayev Artemovich has been cut.
Artemovich gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Grano.
Lavinio Grano seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Artemovich takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Grano stuffs the takedown attempt from Artemovich. Artemovich gets slowly back to his feet.
Grano misses with an uppercut. Artemovich saw that one coming.
Decent striking displayed by Grano there.
Artemovich misses with a hook.
Grano swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Nice cross by Grano.#CUT#
That has opened up Isayev Artemovich's cut even more.
Grano jabs Artemovich right on the nose. Artemovich blinks but takes it well.
Artemovich goes for a double leg but Grano avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Grano continues to drive forward.
Artemovich misses with a takedown attempt
and Grano counters with a nice uppercut. #ROC#
Artemovich is rocked!
Artemovich looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Lavinio Grano has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Isayev Artemovich.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Artemovich ducks into an uppercut from Grano and that's knocked him out cold! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:48 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Lavinio Grano!
A relieved looking Lavinio Grano thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

Event: The Island Season 9, 135 lbs, Round 1
Date: May 04, 2019

#R1#
Larionovich ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Crunch! Seme slams his shin into Larionovich's torso.
A slapping body kick lands there for Seme.
Seme keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Larionovich.#TD2#
Seme gets caught flat footed, as Larionovich shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Seme wants to sweep here but Larionovich controlling him for the moment.
Larionovich looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Seme is controlling Larionovich's posture.#SUB2#
Larionovich drops back looking for a leg! Seme is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Seme manages to kick Larionovich off! Larionovich jumps back into Seme's guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Larionovich wants to control from the top but Seme keeps moving. #T1#
Larionovich forces his way into half guard.
Seme is trying to control but can't.
Seme is refusing to be controlled, as Larionovich sits in half guard. #SUB2#
Larionovich seems like he's working for an arm triangle here. He's freed his trapped foot and he's rotating nicely. Seme is in big trouble! He's tapping out! This one is aaaaaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:51 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Arm Triangle). Bobrov Larionovich!
In his post fight interview, Bobrov Larionovich started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

Event: The Island Season 9, 145 lbs, Round 1
Date: May 04, 2019

#R1##TD2#
Vladislavovich darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Vladislavovich looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Vladislavovich is looking to advance position but Sakurai won't allow it. #SUB#
Sakurai looking for subs from the bottom but Vladislavovich mounts him!
Sakurai is looking to improve his position but Vladislavovich isn't that keen on the idea.
Vladislavovich manages to capitalize on a mistake by Sakurai to take his back!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sakurai tries to break free. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich has his opponent's back and is working for the choke.
Sakurai tries to break free. #T1##SUB2#
Vladislavovich is looking for the choke from the back position but Sakurai is controlling his hands well.
Vladislavovich controlling well, preventing Sakurai from escaping the position.
Sakurai has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.#SUB2#
Sakurai showing good submission defense here.
Vladislavovich has the hooks in. Sakurai is trying to push off one leg but he has to do so cautiously to avoid being submitted. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich 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, Sakurai has freed his hand and lives to survive another… well, another couple of seconds at least!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich is working hard for the rear naked choke here. #T2#
Sakurai is trying to break free.
Sakurai manages to reverse the position and now he's in Vladislavovich's guard. Nice work there by Sakurai.
Sakurai passes into half guard. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich looking for submissions off his back.
Sakurai is trying to advance to mount but he's lost his balance and Vladislavovich reverses the position - he's now on top in Sakurai'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!
Sakurai looking for a sweep. Not yet Sakurai, not yet. #T3#
Vladislavovich trying to control but Sakurai is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Sakurai working away from the bottom but not quite defensive enough there because Vladislavovich has passed into half guard!
Sakurai tries to get to full guard but Vladislavovich has control of the leg. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Sakurai defends it well. #SUB#
Sakurai actively working from the bottom here.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.#SUB#
Sakurai actively working from the bottom here.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kaverin Vladislavovich dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!
#R2#
Vladislavovich misses with an uppercut. Sakurai saw that one coming.#TD#
Sakurai throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Vladislavovich was covering up waiting for the punch and Sakurai finishes the takedown easily into guard. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Sakurai defends it easily.
Sakurai wants to pass the guard but Vladislavovich is keeping the position.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich has his foot on Sakurai's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Sakurai works his way back into a safe position though.#T1#
Sakurai wants to pass the guard but Vladislavovich is keeping the position.
Sakurai slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.#SUB#
Sakurai goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Vladislavovich has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Sakurai but great work by Vladislavovich.
Sakurai tries to improve position but can't.
Sakurai is working hard here to advance position.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Sakurai is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Sakurai is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Vladislavovich off and has taken his back!#T2#
Vladislavovich looks to control his opponent's hands but he's not mananging it at the moment. #SUB#
Vladislavovich defends a prolonged rear naked choke attempt and turns nicely into his opponent's guard.
Vladislavovich is pushing down on Sakurai's leg trying to pass to half guard. Sakurai is fighting to maintain full guard but Vladislavovich has managed to sneak the leg through.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Sakurai is not content to let Vladislavovich control the position.
Sakurai gets back to full guard. #T3#
Vladislavovich pushes down on Sakurai's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Vladislavovich seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Sakurai does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #SUB#
Sakurai looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Vladislavovich has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich is actively looking for submissions here but good counter grappling here from Sakurai as he works his way to full guard.
Vladislavovich pushes down on Sakurai's leg and manages to get into half guard.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.#SUB#
Sakurai looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB#
Sakurai looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB#
Sakurai looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Kaverin Vladislavovich has got the better of the ground game so far.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Kaverin Vladislavovich will probably get the nod - 10:9.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Vladislavovich pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Sakurai moves away from the strike by Vladislavovich. #TD#
Vladislavovich gets caught napping as Sakurai dives in and scores a takedown. Vladislavovich manages to retain guard.
Sakurai passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Vladislavovich gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich looking for submissions off his back.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Sakurai is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Vladislavovich doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Sakurai. #T1##SUB#
Vladislavovich is defending against the submission attempts here by Sakurai. #SUB#
Sakurai is looking for a kimura here. #T2#
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.
Sakurai trying to pass the guard but Vladislavovich defending well. #SUB#
Sakurai is looking for a kimura here.
Vladislavovich is looking to improve his position. #T3#
Vladislavovich regains full guard. Nicely done. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich is active off his back here, looking for submissions. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Sakurai doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Sakurai manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich has his foot on Sakurai's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Sakurai works his way back into a safe position though.
Hayate Sakurai has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Sakurai postures up in Vladislavovich's guard and throws a big left but Vladislavovich blocks it. #SUB2#
Sakurai has a momentary lapse of concentration, allowing Vladislavovich to throw up a leg and lock on what appears to be a pretty tight triangle! Sakurai is fighting it off but it's all too little too late - Vladislavovich pulls down on the head and he's put Sakurai to sleep! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:58 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Kaverin Vladislavovich!
A less than humble Kaverin Vladislavovich misjudged his post fight interview somewhat and came across a little too arrogant whilst trying to hype up his own abilities.

Event: The Island Season 9, 155 lbs, Round 1
Date: May 04, 2019

#R1#
Stepanovich throws a jab but it's blocked by Knives.
Knives avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
A big left from Knives misses.
Stepanovich drops down looking for a counter takedown but Knives sprawls and moves away.
No luck for Stepanovich with that takedown attempt.
A jab from Stepanovich misses.
A countering left hand to the body from Knives misses.
Stepanovich has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Temp Spar Gym in the buildup to the fight.
Knives darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Stepanovich misses with a hook.
Knives misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Stepanovich.
Stepanovich shoots in and drives through. Knives sprawls well.
Knives swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Knives misses the shot to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Stepanovich pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Stepanovich moves out of range as Knives strikes.
Stepanovich ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Stepanovich is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Knives.
Knives misses the shot to the body. #T1#
Knives looks to throw the jab but Stepanovich is out of range.
Stepanovich throws out a loose jab but Knives uses good head movement to avoid it.
Stepanovich is really struggling to find his range with his punches. Knives's reach advantage is clearly causing him problems.
Stepanovich misses the jab.
Knives fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Stepanovich on the side of the head.
Denzel Knives is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Stepanovich ducks under a wild hook from Knives.
Stepanovich throws a good cross that connects.
Stepanovich with a lazy takedown attempt
and Knives counters with a right hand to the body.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Nevzorov Stepanovich. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Knives walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Stepanovich throws out a loose jab but Knives uses good head movement to avoid it.
Knives throws out a counter right but Stepanovich avoids it with no problem.
Stepanovich shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Knives pinned against the cage. Knives gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Stepanovich pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Knives throws a hard body shot but it just misses. #T2#
Nice shot by Knives.#CUT2#
It looks like Nevzorov Stepanovich has been cut.
Knives is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Stepanovich.
Stepanovich drops down looking for a counter takedown but Knives sprawls and moves away.
Knives keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Stepanovich.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Stepanovich throws a shot from downtown. Knives moves away and avoids it.
Stepanovich misses with an uppercut. Knives saw that one coming.
Knives swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Knives lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Stepanovich at a distance.
Stepanovich pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
It seemed like Knives was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Stepanovich misses with a straight left.
Knives tests Stepanovich's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Knives misses with an uppercut.
Stepanovich is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.#TD#
Stepanovich closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Knives quickly recovers to half guard.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Knives can do anything to dispel that myth.
Stepanovich looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Knives is looking for a sweep. Stepanovich is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#T3#
Stepanovich wants to free his trapped foot but Knives is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Knives trying to control but Stepanovich postures up.
Stepanovich trying to control the action but Knives is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Stepanovich is looking for a kimura but Knives is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Stepanovich to get the leverage.
We've been informed that Knives has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.
Knives wants to control but Stepanovich is keeping busy and won't allow it. #T4#
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.
Knives slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Stepanovich wants to control from the top but Knives keeps moving.
Knives looking for a sweep. Not yet Knives, not yet.
Stepanovich postures up.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Stepanovich trying to control but Knives is working from the bottom. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Knives throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Stepanovich sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Nice defenses there by Stepanovich.
A shot to the liver by Knives. Beautiful body shot.
Stepanovich swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
A slow jab from Knives misses its intended target.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Denzel Knives dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Nevzorov Stepanovich's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.
#R2#
Stepanovich tries for a takedown but Knives circles away easily
and Knives counters with a straight right hand.
Stepanovich misses with a right hand
and Knives counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Stepanovich misses with a looping right.
Stepanovich misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Knives swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Knives takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Knives lands a glancing blow to the side of Stepanovich's head.#TD#
Stepanovich shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Knives napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Knives can't do much from the bottom here.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.#SUB#
Stepanovich tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Stepanovich has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #T1#
Knives is looking for a sweep.
Stepanovich wants to control but Knives is keeping him busy.
Knives keeps Stepanovich under control for a moment.#SUB#
Stepanovich has hold of Knives's arm here. He's working for an Americana. It looks like he might have it! Knives tries to escape but he's just digging himself in deeper - Stepanovich cranks the arm and Knives screams in pain! The ref makes a decision and ends the fight before the tap - no complains from Knives, who is just happy to have his arm attached to his body.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:57 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Nevzorov Stepanovich!
Nevzorov Stepanovich 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: The Island Season 9, 170 lbs, Round 1
Date: May 04, 2019

#R1#
Espiga misses with a hook #TD2#
and Filippovich counters with a takedown into side control.
Espiga is not content to let Filippovich control the position.
Espiga has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.#SUB2#
Filippovich has hold of Espiga's arm here. He's working for an Americana. It looks like he might have it! Espiga tries to escape but he's just digging himself in deeper - Filippovich cranks the arm and Espiga screams in pain! The ref makes a decision and ends the fight before the tap - no complains from Espiga, who is just happy to have his arm attached to his body.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:27 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Drotenkov Filippovich!
Drotenkov Filippovich 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: The Island Season 9, 265+ lbs, Round 1
Date: May 04, 2019

#R1#
Shaw uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Artemovich has time to react.#CUT#
It looks like Isayev Artemovich has been cut.
Shaw slips a straight right by Artemovich.
No luck for Artemovich with that takedown attempt.
Shaw slips a straight right by Artemovich.
Shaw with a hook.
Artemovich looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Artemovich misses the jab.
Shaw misses with a looping left.
Artemovich misses the jab.
Shaw ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Artemovich moves away.
Tim Shaw seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Artemovich takes one to the side of the head.
Shaw leaves Artemovich with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Shaw is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Shaw scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Shaw lands the left hand.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Shaw fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Artemovich manages to avoid it.#TD2#
Artemovich fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Shaw to the ground. Artemovich is now in Shaw's guard.
Shaw has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Shaw can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Artemovich controls the pace.#T1#
Shaw keeping moving, preventing Artemovich from controlling successfully. #SUB#
Shaw has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Artemovich can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Shaw knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Artemovich on the ground.
Shaw is trying to keep Artemovich in close.
Shaw is really struggling to control Artemovich but he's trying to hold on to the position.#SUB#
Shaw is looking for a triangle but Artemovich pushes his legs off easily.
Artemovich wants to control from the top but Shaw keeps moving.
Artemovich wants to pass the guard but Shaw is keeping the position.#SUB#
Shaw looking for subs off his back but Artemovich has passed one foot through into half guard. #T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.#SUB2#
Artemovich seems to be looking for submissions. #SUB2#
Artemovich 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.
Shaw wants to control the action here but instead Artemovich manages to pass to full mount!
Shaw is trying to reverse the position but instead Artemovich has taken his back - oops!#SUB2#
Artemovich has his arm under Shaw's chin here. Game over son! Artemovich squeezes tightly and Shaw is forced to tap out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Isayev Artemovich!
Isayev Artemovich 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: SPARTA 48: THE ISLAND FINALE
Date: Apr 30, 2019

#R1##CL#
Aguinaldo drives through and clinches with Filippovich against the cage.
Aguinaldo lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards. #TD2#
Filippovich manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back. #SUB2#
Filippovich looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Aguinaldo's corner is telling him to maintain position.#SUB2#
Filippovich is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Aguinaldo is aware though and is defending well.
Aguinaldo trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Filippovich is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Aguinaldo controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Aguinaldo tries to free his leg and advance position but Filippovich is retaining full guard. #SUB2#
Aguinaldo is trying to tuck his arms in to keep them safe but Filippovich has managed to isolate one of them and has got a loose triangle. Aguinaldo is looking to defend but Filippovich has done well to lock his legs together - this could be big trouble for Aguinaldo! Filippovich pulls down on the head and a little smile comes across his face - he knows he's got it. Yep, Aguinaldo taps out and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Drotenkov Filippovich!
Drotenkov Filippovich is the new welterweight champion!
Drotenkov Filippovich 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.
In defeat, Emilio Aguinaldo stepped up to the mic, saying 'A man can be destroyed but not defeated... I will pickup the pieces that I learned today and will grow from it.'.

Event: SPARTA 47
Date: Apr 28, 2019

#R1#
Ndawonde avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Ndawonde looks to score with a jab to the body but Vladislavovich is just out of range.#TD2#
Ndawonde gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Ndawonde on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Ndawonde tries to get out of the position.
Ndawonde trying to keep a closed guard but Vladislavovich is proving a slippery customer.
Vladislavovich wants to pass the guard but Ndawonde is keeping the position.
Ndawonde keeping moving, preventing Vladislavovich from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ndawonde wants to sweep here but Vladislavovich controlling him for the moment.
Vladislavovich looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Vladislavovich jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position. #T1#
Ndawonde keeping moving, preventing Vladislavovich from controlling successfully.
Ndawonde pulls Vladislavovich in to control the position.
Vladislavovich trying to control but Ndawonde is working from the bottom.
Vladislavovich works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Vladislavovich wants to lay and pray for a moment but Ndawonde keeps working.
Ndawonde is controlling Vladislavovich's trapped leg to prevent Vladislavovich from advancing to side control.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Ndawonde is just riding it out for now. Vladislavovich eventually gives up the hold. #T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Vladislavovich passes to side control. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich has hold of Ndawonde's arm here. He's working for an Americana. It looks like he might have it! Ndawonde tries to escape but he's just digging himself in deeper - Vladislavovich cranks the arm and Ndawonde screams in pain! The ref makes a decision and ends the fight before the tap - no complains from Ndawonde, who is just happy to have his arm attached to his body.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Kaverin Vladislavovich!
A very excited looking Kaverin Vladislavovich 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: SPARTA 44
Date: Apr 21, 2019

#R1##TD2#
Hale closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Artemovich has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Artemovich can't do much from the bottom here.
Artemovich is looking for a sweep.
Hale looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.#SUB2#
Hale is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Artemovich knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Artemovich tries to improve position but can't.
Artemovich tries to control the position but he's not in luck - Hale easily slips into full mount!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Artemovich is just holding on here. Hale manages to take his back.
You can see the frustration on Artemovich's face… He knows he is in trouble unless he improves his position sooner rather than later. #T1##SUB2#
Artemovich is staying cool under pressure, defending well against the rear naked choke attempt from his opponent. #SUB2#
Hale working for a choke but Artemovich is defending well.
I really don't envy Artemovich right now. #SUB2#
Hale is looking for the choke from the back position but Artemovich is controlling his hands well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Hale tightening his grip on Artemovich, looking for the choke. #SUB2#
Artemovich defending nicely against the rear naked choke attempt. #T2#
Artemovich rolls and manages to get back to half guard. Nicely done. #SUB2#
Hale has hold of the far side arm. He's working for the Kimura, can Artemovich defend it? Hale steps over the head and cranks it - Artemovich is tapping out! That was textbook stuff right there - nice submission victory for Hale!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:37 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Keiki Hale!
Keiki Hale is the new super heavyweight champion!
Keiki Hale decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: SPARTA 44
Date: Apr 21, 2019

#R1#
Chausson moves away from the strike by Larionovich.
Chausson throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Larionovich looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Chausson appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
A lazy left from Chausson finds it's target.#CUT2#
It looks like Bobrov Larionovich has been cut.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Larionovich.
Chausson looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Larionovich takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.#CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Chausson presses Larionovich against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Larionovich blocks a body shot from Chausson.
Chausson lands a hook to the side of the head.
Larionovich fails to land with a short punch on the inside. #T1#
Chausson misses with a body punch.
Chausson has a couple of punches blocked by Larionovich.
Larionovich working aggressively here.
Larionovich misses with a hook from the clinch.
Larionovich blocks an uppercut.
Chausson throws a punch but it's blocked by Larionovich.
Chausson makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Chausson works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
A short uppercut from Chausson.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Chausson.
Larionovich fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Chausson working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Larionovich throws a punch but it's blocked by Chausson.
Nice body punch from Chausson - that landed with a thud.
Larionovich has a couple of punches blocked by Chausson. #T2#
Chausson lands a body punch.
Chausson works on Larionovich's body with a couple of short punches.
Chausson misses with a hook from the clinch.
Larionovich misses with a short punch on the inside.
Chausson gets through Larionovich's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Chausson lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Larionovich backwards.
Chausson tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Chausson softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Chausson scores with a shot to the side of Larionovich's head.
Chausson working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Larionovich wants to strike at distance but he can't break free of the clinch.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Chausson.
Larionovich definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Larionovich takes a shot to the head.
Chausson lands a body shot.
Chausson lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Larionovich backwards. #T3#
Larionovich tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Chausson just stands there and leans against the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Bobrov Larionovich. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Chausson blocks a couple of punches on the inside. #TD#
Larionovich pulls guard effortlessly.
Chausson sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Chausson trying to control the position from guard on top but Larionovich is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Chausson slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard. #SUB#
Chausson is sitting in close to Larionovich's body. Larionovich has gone for a guillotine from the bottom. Oh damn, that looks pretty tight! Chausson is panicking - it looks like this one could be all over! Yes, Chausson is tapping! That was a very nice submission by Larionovich.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Bobrov Larionovich!
A less than humble Bobrov Larionovich misjudged his post fight interview somewhat and came across a little too arrogant whilst trying to hype up his own abilities.

Event: SPARTA 43
Date: Apr 19, 2019

#R1#
Stepanovich avoids the body shot from Yamamoto.
Yamamoto swings widly with a right hand #TD2#
and Stepanovich counters with a takedown into side control.
Yamamoto has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Yamamoto is trying to get back to half guard.
Stepanovich wants to lay and pray for a moment but Yamamoto keeps working.
Yamamoto is looking to reverse the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Stepanovich thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Yamamoto tries to bench press Stepanovich off him but Stepanovich keeps the position. #T1#
Yamamoto is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Stepanovich's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.#SUB2#
Yamamoto is defending against the submission attempts here by Stepanovich.
Stepanovich has been taking part in the yoga sessions down at Temp Spar Gym. Presumably he's going to look for a slick submission... Or maybe he's looking to avoid one.#SUB2#
Stepanovich is trying to work for a kimura but Yamamoto is defending well. #SUB2#
Stepanovich is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #T2#
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.
Yamamoto tries to get to full guard but Stepanovich has control of the leg. #SUB#
Yamamoto looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB#
Yamamoto is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Stepanovich pulls his head out easily.
Stepanovich is trying to control. Yamamoto wants to improve his position but can't escape this time. #SUB2#
Stepanovich is looking for a kimura here.
Yamamoto is refusing to be controlled, as Stepanovich sits in half guard. #T3##SUB2#
Stepanovich is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #SUB2#
Stepanovich looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique. #SUB2#
Stepanovich wants to work for an arm triangle but Yamamoto is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Yamamoto is refusing to be controlled, as Stepanovich sits in half guard. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Yamamoto misses with a wild body shot.
Yamamoto misses the shot to the body.
Stepanovich tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Stepanovich shoots in and drives through. Yamamoto sprawls well.
Stepanovich tries for a takedown but Yamamoto sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Stepanovich looks to land a left hand but Yamamoto moved out of range nicely.
Stepanovich jabbing away but nothing is landing. #TD#
Yamamoto scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB2#
Stepanovich looking for a kimura from the bottom but Yamamoto passes into side control!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Stepanovich wants to control but Yamamoto postures up.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Nevzorov Stepanovich will probably get the nod.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.
#R2#
Stepanovich doesn't succeed with the takedown#TD#
and Yamamoto counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground. #SUB#
Yamamoto drops back, looking for a kneebar! Stepanovich looks panicked! The fighters roll across the mat, one looking to finish, one looking to escape. Stepanovich looks to have wriggled free... Yes, he's got his leg free and he's dived into side control! Good work there from Stepanovich! #REVB#
Stepanovich has knee on belly and now moves to full mount! Trouble for Yamamoto!
Yamamoto really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Yamamoto is working hard here to advance position.
Stepanovich can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Yamamoto is looking to escape. #T1##SUB2#
Stepanovich is working on an americana here. Ooh, that looks pretty nasty! Nope, Yamamoto has managed to escape the submission attempt. #SUB2#
Stepanovich goes for an armbar but he's fallen flat on his backside there and now Yamamoto is on top in guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Yamamoto passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Stepanovich is trying to improve his position.#T2##SUB#
Yamamoto wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Stepanovich, who protects the arm well. #SUB#
Yamamoto goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Stepanovich has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Yamamoto but great work by Stepanovich.
Yamamoto is looking to reverse the position.#SUB2#
Stepanovich tries for a kimura but Yamamoto is defending well.
Yamamoto is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.
Yamamoto works his way to full guard. Good work.#T3##SUB#
Yamamoto has his foot on Stepanovich's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Stepanovich works his way back into a safe position though.#SUB#
Stepanovich got a little sloppy there for a moment and Yamamoto has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Stepanovich has managed to get both his arms back between Yamamoto's legs - danger averted.
Yamamoto keeping moving, preventing Stepanovich from controlling successfully. #SUB#
Yamamoto has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Stepanovich can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #SUB#
Stepanovich got a little sloppy there for a moment and Yamamoto has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Stepanovich has managed to get both his arms back between Yamamoto's legs - danger averted.#T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Stepanovich stands and throws Yamamoto's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Yamamoto is trying to improve his position.
Stepanovich trying to control the position but Yamamoto is working away.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Stepanovich tries for a kimura but Yamamoto is defending well.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Norifumi Yamamoto will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Stepanovich throws a jab but it's blocked by Yamamoto.
A telegraphed right hand from Stepanovich misses the target.
Yamamoto looks to score with a jab to the body but Stepanovich is just out of range.
Stepanovich waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Yamamoto.
Yamamoto feinted with a counter takedown.
Stepanovich blocks a jab.#TD#
Yamamoto scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Stepanovich tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Yamamoto wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Yamamoto tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Norifumi Yamamoto overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#SUB#
Yamamoto tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Yamamoto has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #T1##SUB#
Yamamoto is trying to get an arm triangle but Stepanovich is defending well.
Stepanovich is looking for a sweep.
Stepanovich is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.#T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Stepanovich wants to control but Yamamoto postures up.#SUB#
Yamamoto looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything. #SUB#
Yamamoto wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Stepanovich, who protects the arm well.
Stepanovich can't do much from the bottom here. #T3#
Stepanovich tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Stepanovich is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Yamamoto's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Stepanovich is pressing down on Yamamoto's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.#SUB#
Yamamoto is trying to work a guillotine from the top, or something like that? Don't know how he thinks he's going to get a finish from there.
Yamamoto trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.#T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Yamamoto misses with a looping left.
A big right from Yamamoto misses.
Stepanovich throws a big shot that misses.
Yamamoto uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Stepanovich.#TD#
Yamamoto gets a double leg takedown into Stepanovich's guard.
Stepanovich tries to land a sweep but no joy. #SUB#
Yamamoto drops back looking for a heel hook - he quickly realises he's not going to get it but Stepanovich manages to dive on top of him before he can escape and now Yamamoto has Stepanovich in his guard.#REVB##SUB2#
Stepanovich drops back looking for a heel hook - he quickly realises he's not going to get it but Yamamoto manages to dive on top of him before he can escape and now Stepanovich has Yamamoto in his guard.#REVR#

And that's the end of the fight!
Norifumi Yamamoto showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Yamamoto 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 Michael Johnstone scores the fight 29:28
Judge Dirk Anderson scores the fight 28:29
Judge David Hoff scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by split decision... Norifumi Yamamoto!
Our winner, Norifumi Yamamoto, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.

Event: SPARTA 42
Date: Apr 17, 2019

#R1#
Filippovich throws a right hand that misses
and Jab counters with a nice uppercut.
A jab from Jab misses.
Jab swings for the body but Filippovich moves out of range.
Jab defending well as Filippovich loads up on a big left hand.
Filippovich will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Filippovich swings widly with a right hand
letting Jab counter with a right hand.
Jab throws out a powerful jab.
Filippovich misses with a takedown attempt
and Jab connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Jab connects with a body shot that sends Filippovich's belly button to the back.
Jab waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Filippovich.
Jab keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Filippovich.
Filippovich throws a big shot that misses.
Jab swings away with a body shot that misses #TD#
and Filippovich counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Jab!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
You can see the frustration on Jab's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#SUB#
Filippovich is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Jab is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now. #T1##SUB#
Filippovich wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Jab, who protects the arm well.
Jab trying his best to control but Filippovich has mounted him.#SUB#
Filippovich goes for an armbar but Jab turns quickly into his guard - lovely anticipation from Jab.
Jab is looking to stand up but Filippovich won't let him. #T2#
Jab looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.#SUB#
Filippovich is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Jab defends well.#SUB#
Filippovich is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Jab is aware though and is defending well.
Jab trying to stand up but can't free himself from Filippovich's guard.#T3##SUB#
Filippovich is working for submissions here. He's thrown up his legs looking for a triangle but Jab frees his head nicely. Oh but Filippovich has switched to an armbar! Jab is tapping furiously! Lovely submission there!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:21 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Armbar). Drotenkov Filippovich!
Drotenkov Filippovich 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: SPARTA 41
Date: Apr 14, 2019

#R1#
Penn connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Vladislavovich misses with an uppercut.
Penn uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Vladislavovich.
Vladislavovich throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Penn sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Penn is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Vladislavovich with a body shot.
Penn lands an overhand right.
The crowd cheers as Penn lands an impressive looking overhand right. Vladislavovich doesn't seem phased though.
Vladislavovich throws out a loose jab but Penn uses good head movement to avoid it.
Penn throws a jab but it's blocked by Vladislavovich.
Penn with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Penn throws an off balance right hand #TD#
so Vladislavovich counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
This has been an exciting period of action!#SUB#
Vladislavovich drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Vladislavovich jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Vladislavovich looking to pass the guard.
Penn wants to sweep here but Vladislavovich controlling him for the moment.
Penn looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Penn trying to keep a closed guard but Vladislavovich is proving a slippery customer. #T1#
Vladislavovich stands and throws Penn's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Vladislavovich working away.#SUB#
Vladislavovich looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything. #SUB#
Vladislavovich wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Penn, who protects the arm well. #SUB#
Vladislavovich tries for a kimura but Penn is defending well.
Penn manages to work his way to half guard, despite Vladislavovich's best efforts.#SUB#
Vladislavovich wants to work for an arm triangle but Penn is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Penn trying to control from the bottom.
Vladislavovich trying to pass the guard but Penn defending well. #T2##SUB#
Vladislavovich is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #SUB#
Vladislavovich is working for a submission of some sort. #SUB#
Vladislavovich seems to be working for a kimura but Penn defends the submission attempt.#SUB#
Vladislavovich wants to work for an arm triangle but Penn is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Penn is staying active underneath Vladislavovich, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Vladislavovich prevents Penn from improving his position.
Penn has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Vladislavovich is working away from the top position though.
Penn manages to get to full guard. #T3#
Penn keeping full guard, as Vladislavovich tries to pass.
Penn is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Penn looking to hit a scissor sweep but Vladislavovich is one step ahead there.
Vladislavovich advances position into side control!
Penn is looking for a sweep.
Vladislavovich is looking to take a break and control but Penn is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #SUB#
Vladislavovich looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Penn wants to control but Vladislavovich postures up.#T4##SUB#
Vladislavovich tries for a kimura but Penn is defending well.
Vladislavovich moves into full mount!
Penn really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Vladislavovich. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.#SUB#
Vladislavovich has hold of Penn's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and Penn manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger. #SUB#
Vladislavovich looking for a guillotine from mount but Penn is having none of it.
Vladislavovich looking to control but Penn is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Penn wants to hold on but Vladislavovich pushes him away.
Penn regains half guard.
Penn trying to control from the bottom.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kaverin Vladislavovich dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!
#R2#
Penn uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Vladislavovich.
A punch lands to the side of Vladislavovich 's head but he takes it in his stride.#TD#
Vladislavovich closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Penn did well to prevent Vladislavovich getting side control.
Penn is looking for a sweep. Vladislavovich is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Vladislavovich is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Penn can do to turn this around?#SUB#
Vladislavovich is working for a kimura but Penn is defending it quite comfortably.
Penn is trying to control but can't.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Penn tries to roll over but Vladislavovich keeps him under control.#SUB#
Vladislavovich is working for a kimura but Penn is defending it quite comfortably. #SUB#
Vladislavovich is working for a kimura but Penn is defending it quite comfortably. #T1#
Penn trying to control from the bottom.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Penn is trying to control Vladislavovich's posture. Vladislavovich takes advantage of the lull and advances to side control. He also appears to have an arm triangle here! Uh oh, big trouble for Penn! Vladislavovich is rotating here... this could be the end... Penn is out! Vladislavovich has ended this one emphatically! Great submission!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:38 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Arm Triangle). Kaverin Vladislavovich!
In his post fight interview, Kaverin Vladislavovich started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

Event: SPARTA 39
Date: Apr 10, 2019

#R1#
Larionovich takes one on the chin but seems OK. #CUT2#
It looks like Bobrov Larionovich has been cut.
Rasgado jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Larionovich throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Rasgado counters with a nice uppercut.
Rasgado missing with a left hand there. Larionovich was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Rasgado has been spending a lot of time sparring his boxing in the run up to the fight, trying to sharpen up those hands and look for a knockout.#TD#
Larionovich throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Rasgado tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Larionovich is in Rasgado's guard.
Larionovich looking to pass the guard.
Larionovich stopping the sweep attempt from Rasgado.
Rasgado is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Larionovich definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.#SUB#
Larionovich thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Rasgado controls Larionovich momentarily but Larionovich frees himself.
Larionovich trying to control the position from guard on top but Rasgado is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T1#
Larionovich stopping the sweep attempt from Rasgado.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Rasgado managing to control the position.
Rasgado looking to control. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
A jab from Rasgado misses.
Rasgado comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Rasgado throws the left hand but Larionovich avoids the punch easily.
Larionovich waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Rasgado.#TD#
Larionovich gets a double leg takedown into Rasgado's guard.
Larionovich trying to control the position from guard on top but Rasgado is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Rasgado controlling Larionovich's posture. #T2##SUB#
Larionovich is trying to work a guillotine from the top, or something like that? Don't know how he thinks he's going to get a finish from there. #SUB#
Larionovich drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Larionovich jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position. #SUB#
Larionovich thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Rasgado keeping moving, preventing Larionovich from controlling successfully. #T3#
Rasgado looking to control.
Larionovich wants to pass the guard but Rasgado is keeping the position.
Larionovich trying to control but Rasgado is working from the bottom. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Larionovich missing with a left hand there. Rasgado was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Rasgado throws a looping overhand right but Larionovich ducks down to avoid it.
Rasgado staying out of range there.
Larionovich throws a big shot that misses.
Larionovich throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Rasgado sees it coming and avoids it easily.#T4#
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.
Nice takedown defense from Rasgado. No joy for Larionovich on that attempt.
Rasgado slips under a jab from Larionovich.
Ricardo Rasgado is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Larionovich fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Rasgado tests Larionovich's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Larionovich misses with a looping left.
Larionovich takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Rasgado swings and misses with a shot to the body#TD#
and Larionovich counters with a nice double leg into guard. #SUB#
Larionovich drops back looking for a leg! Rasgado is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Rasgado manages to kick Larionovich off! Larionovich jumps back into Rasgado's guard.
Rasgado looking for a sweep. Not yet Rasgado, not yet.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Bobrov Larionovich will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Bobrov Larionovich's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.
#R2##CL2#
Rasgado moves into range and clinches up with Larionovich.
Rasgado gets through Larionovich's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Rasgado lands a left hand that snaps the head of Larionovich backwards.
A nice right hand lands inside from Rasgado.
Larionovich throws a head punch that misses.
Larionovich tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Rasgado swings wildly with an uppercut but Larionovich uses good head movement to avoid it.
Rasgado lands with a left to the head.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Larionovich.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A short uppercut from Rasgado.
Larionovich throws a head punch that misses.
Larionovich throws a punch but it's blocked by Rasgado.
Rasgado has a couple of punches blocked by Larionovich. #BC2#
Rasgado pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.#T1#
Rasgado swings for the body but Larionovich moves out of range.
Rasgado throws a shot from downtown. Larionovich moves away and avoids it.
A jab from Larionovich misses.
Rasgado tries to clinch there but Larionovich circles away.
Larionovich defending well as Rasgado loads up on a big left hand.
Rasgado cracks Larionovich with an open hand slap.
Rasgado tries to clinch up.
Larionovich slips a straight right by Rasgado.
Rasgado throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Larionovich sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Larionovich drops down looking for a counter takedown but Rasgado sprawls and moves away.
Rasgado throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Larionovich sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Some wild striking there from Larionovich.
A jab from Rasgado misses.
A swing and a miss from Rasgado.#T2#
Rasgado jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Larionovich throws a looping overhand right but Rasgado ducks down to avoid it.
Rasgado is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Larionovich.
Larionovich half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Rasgado lands a vicious shot with the stealth of a sniper and the strength of a viper. Are vipers that strong? I can think of lots of things that are stronger than a viper - not many rhyme with sniper though.
Larionovich throws a hook but Rasgado blocks it.
Rasgado with a body punch. A glancing blow.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
A jab from Larionovich misses.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Rasgado! But no joy.
Larionovich is really struggling to find his range with his punches. Rasgado's reach advantage is clearly causing him problems.
Larionovich misses with an uppercut.
Larionovich walks into a jab.
Rasgado avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Rasgado slaps away a takedown attempt from Larionovich, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Rasgado looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Larionovich walks into a left hand.
Larionovich ducks right into an uppercut from Rasgado. #ROC2#
Larionovich is rocked!#T3#
Larionovich misses the jab.
Rasgado slips a jab from Larionovich.
Rasgado slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Oh Larionovich is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Larionovich walks straight into a right hand from Rasgado - that's dropped him! Rasgado jumps into mount and starts pounding away - can he finish?! More strikes go undefended and the referee has to dive in to save Larionovich from any more punishment! Larionovich complains about the stoppage but falls over as he tries to stand back up, so it was clearly a good stoppage.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:20 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Punches). Ricardo Rasgado!
Ricardo Rasgado tried to hype himself up post fight but didn't word it too well and it ended up with him sounding like a bit of a tool.

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