EFC 2: PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Blagoi Mladenov (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Carl Draiman (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The atmosphere really building for this one as we go over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Mladenov
vs
Draiman

184 cm
25
192 lbs
5 - 0 - 0

178 cm
28
184 lbs
10 - 7 - 1

Good wrestling
Counter fighter
Good chin

BJJ Purple Belt
Basic striking
Knockout power

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Amsterdam, Blagoi Mladenov!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 10 - 7 - 1, fighting out of Las Vegas, Carl Draiman!
The judges for this bout are Ben Zyskovitsi, Arvi Lind and Marco Blurström.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Draiman tries to clinch up.
Draiman wants to clinch but Mladenov slips to the side

so Mladenov counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Mladenov working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Draiman's head.
Draiman controls Mladenov momentarily but Mladenov frees himself.
Mladenov makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Draiman manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Mladenov manages to get himself to full guard.

Mladenov looking for a guillotine here but Draiman defends easily.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Mladenov tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Draiman is looking to stand up but Mladenov won't let him.
Mladenov controls Draiman momentarily but Draiman frees himself.

Mladenov working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Draiman doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Draiman manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Draiman won't allow Mladenov to sweep him here.
Draiman tries to stand but Mladenov is controlling from the bottom.

Mladenov is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Draiman defends well.

Mladenov is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.

Draiman avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Mladenov on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Mladenov tries to get out of the position.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Draiman tries to stand but Mladenov is controlling from the bottom.
Mladenov looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Mladenov knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Draiman on the ground.

Mladenov has his feet on Draiman's hips. He pushes off and gets to his feet. Nice work.
Draiman pulls out of a head kick attempt.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Mladenov feints and as Draiman raises his hands in defense, Mladenov changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Mladenov loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Mladenov throws a big right hand that misses.
Mladenov won't allow Draiman to sweep him here.
Draiman throwing some rather feeble looking strikes off his back.
Draiman not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Draiman is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
Mladenov being controlled here momentarily.
Mladenov looking to sit in guard and control but Draiman gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.
Draiman trying to stand up but can't free himself from Mladenov's guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Mladenov is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Draiman is aware though and is defending well.
Draiman tries to stand but Mladenov is controlling from the bottom.

Mladenov looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Draiman passes into side control.
Mladenov manages to get back to half guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Mladenov wants to control but Draiman is keeping busy.
Mladenov scrambles, trying to get to his feet, but Draiman manages to mount him!
Mladenov is breathing heavily.
Draiman wants to stand but Mladenov is holding on to him, trying to stop him posturing up.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Blagoi Mladenov dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!

Mladenov tries to work over Draiman's front leg with a kick but Draiman checks it.
Draiman doesn't manage to clinch there - Mladenov circles away.
Draiman throws a right and a left that Mladenov avoids nicely.
Draiman tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Mladenov was well out of range. Poor timing from Draiman.
Mladenov avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Draiman throws a series of punches but Mladenov moves out of range.
Draiman misses with an attempted mid kick.
Mladenov darts in looking for a takedown but Draiman gets double underhooks and turns Mladenov into the cage.

Draiman jumps guard and drags Mladenov to the mat. He's obviously going to be looking for submissions off his back.
Draiman can't keep his opponent in guard - Mladenov advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Mladenov tries to pass to full mount but Draiman defends it.
Mladenov passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Draiman!
Mladenov has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Draiman's face.

Mladenov goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Draiman turns into him and now he's in Mladenov's guard.

Mladenov is looking for a triangle but Draiman pushes his legs off easily.
Draiman wants to stand but Mladenov has a closed guard, so he can't escape.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Mladenov tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Draiman wants to stand but Mladenov is controlling his posture from full guard.
Mladenov looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Draiman tries to stand but Mladenov is controlling from the bottom.
Draiman stopping the sweep attempt from Mladenov.
Mladenov wants to hit a switch here but Draiman passes into full mount! Oh no, disaster for Mladenov there!

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Mladenov is wriggling around trying to escape.
Mladenov is flailing around like a fish out of water, trying to land strikes.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Draiman is trying to stand up but he's being controlled by his opponent.
Mladenov tries to lock up and control but Draiman gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Draiman is looking to stand but Draiman has his arms wrapped tightly around him, looking to prevent the damage.
Draiman trying to control but Mladenov is having none of it.
Mladenov is desperately trying to improve his position but Draiman has a good base and remains in mount.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Mladenov tries to hold on but Draiman pushes him away.
Mladenov is squirming around, avoiding Draiman's attempts to control the action.
Draiman wants to stand but Mladenov is holding on to him, trying to stop him posturing up.
Mladenov is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Mladenov is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Draiman is trying to stand up but he's being controlled by his opponent.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Mladenov tries to hold on but Draiman postures up.
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 Blagoi Mladenov will probably get the nod.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!

Draiman avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Draiman wants to clinch.

Draiman rushes Mladenov and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Draiman gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Mladenov.

Draiman manages to pull guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Draiman trying to punch from his back but it's not doing any damage.
Mladenov scoring with some ground and pound.
Mladenov trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Mladenov working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Draiman's head.

Mladenov drops back looking for a heel hook - he quickly realises he's not going to get it but Draiman manages to dive on top of him before he can escape and now Mladenov has Draiman in his guard.
Mladenov wants to sweep but no luck.
Mladenov bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Draiman's guard.
Draiman throws some sloppy strikes off his back.
Mladenov stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Draiman swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Draiman working a defensive guard here.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Draiman keeping moving, preventing Mladenov from controlling successfully.
Mladenov lands a couple of decent looking shots.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Mladenov postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Mladenov connects with a couple of short punches.
Mladenov stands up over Draiman, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Mladenov keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Draiman's head.
Mladenov stopping the sweep attempt from Draiman.
Draiman takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Draiman is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Mladenov lands a couple of digs.
Mladenov trying to control the position from guard on top but Draiman is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Draiman is trying to control the position but Mladenov postures up.
Mladenov is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Mladenov lands a couple of elbows.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Mladenov's corner. There ya go! There ya go!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Mladenov working some strikes from top position.
Mladenov throws a strike but Draiman rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top.
Mladenov trying to strike from the bottom but really, it's not the best position to be doing that from!
Mladenov wants to sweep but no luck.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Draiman would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard.
Mladenov is controlling Draiman's posture.
Carl Draiman has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Blagoi Mladenov is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ben Zyskovitsi scores the fight 30:27
Judge Arvi Lind scores the fight 30:27
Judge Marco Blurström scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Blagoi Mladenov!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
58%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a bantamweight MMA rules bout between Edson Garcia (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Toni Kulmala (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). On his way into the cage it seems that Edson Garcia has been attacked by a crazed fan! It looks like it might have been the just bleed guy! Luckily Edson Garcia seems to be OK! I thought that lunatic was in prison!?

Garcia
vs
Kulmala

170 cm
30
142 lbs
16 - 11 - 0

178 cm
20
142 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

Decent wrestler
Brawler
Good chin

BJJ White Belt
Excellent boxer
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the bantamweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 16 - 11 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Edson Garcia!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Toni Kulmala!
The judges for this bout are Tarja Halkonen, Johanna Lukiainen and Anni Minnemäki.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Garcia gets caught flat footed, as Kulmala shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Kulmala wants to control from the top but Garcia keeps moving.

Kulmala lying in Garcia's guard like a wet fish here, stalling away. Garcia decides he's had enough of all that nonsense - he escapes his hips and locks up an armbar! Wow, that was slick! Kulmala taps! This one is aaaaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:25 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Edson Garcia!
Edson Garcia decided to hype himself up post fight. It was going well but he went on about it a bit too long and the crowd turned on him a little.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
39%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between David Haggstrom (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Nicholas Weichel (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Both these guys have really solid chins. Will we see a standup war or will they both decide that a knockout is unlikely and try to win the fight elsewhere?

Haggstrom
vs
Weichel

183 cm
25
162 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

183 cm
26
162 lbs
8 - 5 - 0

Good takedowns
Brawler
Good chin

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the lightweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, David Haggstrom!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 8 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Amsterdam, Nicholas Weichel!
The judges for this bout are Johanna Lukiainen, Tarja Halkonen and Roosa Järviläinen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Weichel misses with a takedown attempt - Haggstrom sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
David Haggstrom seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Haggstrom tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Weichel paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Haggstrom tries to clinch but Weichel moves away

so Weichel counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Haggstrom looking to control.
Haggstrom looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Haggstrom working a defensive guard but Weichel passes into half guard.
Weichel sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Haggstrom defending well though.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Haggstrom blocking the ground and pound attempt from Weichel.

Weichel is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Haggstrom has hold of Weichel's hands but Weichel slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.

Weichel wants to work for an arm triangle but Haggstrom is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Weichel has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!

Weichel is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Haggstrom defends it well.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Weichel wants to control but Haggstrom is keeping him busy.
Haggstrom is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Weichel's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Weichel's back!
A lull in the action here.
Weichel tries to escape but Haggstrom has the hooks in and won't let him break free.
Weichel prevents Haggstrom from getting a body triangle.
Weichel rolls, trying to escape but Haggstrom keeps control of the position.
Haggstrom is looking to control Weichel but Weichel is wriggling around and keeping busy.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Haggstrom keeps control of the position as Weichel tries to break free.

Haggstrom tightening his grip on Weichel, looking for the choke.
Weichel looks to control his opponent's hands but he's not mananging it at the moment.
Weichel covers up after that shot from Haggstrom.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!

Haggstrom 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, Weichel has freed his hand and lives to survive another… well, another couple of seconds at least!

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Weichel staying busy and making it hard for Haggstrom to control.
Weichel trying to control the position but Haggstrom manages to sink in the hooks.
Haggstrom struggling to keep hold of the position.

Haggstrom is looking for the choke from the back position but Weichel is controlling his hands well.
So, who will make the next big move? In this position it could be crucial.

Weichel is displaying good submission defense - not really looking in danger of submitting to the rear naked choke at the moment. That could change in an instant of course if Haggstrom gets his way!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
You can see the frustration on Weichel's face… He knows he is in trouble unless he improves his position sooner rather than later.
Haggstrom lands a punch that was close to the back of the head but the ref thinks it's OK.
Weichel can't escape the position.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
A lull in the action here.
Weichel trying to control the hands but Haggstrom breaks the grip.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Haggstrom scores with some strikes to the side of the head there. Good, points scoring shots.
Can Weichel hold on?! Haggstrom is landing more strikes to his hapless foe.
Weichel is covering up but some of the strikes from Haggstrom are getting through and doing damage.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

David Haggstrom dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.

Haggstrom tries to clinch

and Weichel counters with a shoot takedown. Haggstrom fights it but they end up in guard.
Weichel trying to control the position from guard on top but Haggstrom is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Haggstrom is trying to control the position but Weichel postures up.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Weichel accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Weichel chips away with some ground and pound.
Haggstrom working a defensive guard here.
Haggstrom keeping moving, preventing Weichel from controlling successfully.
Haggstrom keeping full guard, as Weichel tries to pass.
Haggstrom wants to stand up but Weichel is controlling him.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Weichel working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Haggstrom's head.
Haggstrom trying to keep a closed guard but Weichel is proving a slippery customer.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.
Haggstrom keeping full guard, as Weichel tries to pass.

Haggstrom working for a triangle but Weichel defends it easily.
Haggstrom working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Weichel.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Weichel is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Haggstrom wants to sweep but no luck.

Haggstrom working for a triangle but Weichel defends it easily.
Weichel wants to control from the top but Haggstrom keeps moving.
Weichel postures up in Haggstrom's guard and throws a big left but Haggstrom blocks it.
Haggstrom is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Weichel is in close to Haggstrom's body, working some short punches and elbows.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Haggstrom working a defensive guard here.
Haggstrom can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Weichel controls the pace.
Haggstrom controls Weichel momentarily but Weichel frees himself.
Weichel is working Haggstrom over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Weichel pushes down on Haggstrom's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Weichel is trying to control. Haggstrom wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Haggstrom moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Haggstrom keeping moving, preventing Weichel from controlling successfully.
Weichel working some strikes from top position.
Haggstrom looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Weichel puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard.
Weichel wants to pass to mount but Haggstrom is defending the position.
Weichel scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Weichel missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Weichel looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Haggstrom with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Weichel throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Haggstrom is looking to control Weichel's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Haggstrom avoid being mounted?
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Nicholas Weichel showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Back to the action! Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!

Weichel fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Haggstrom avoids it really well and circles away.
Weichel misses the shot to the body.

Weichel feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
Haggstrom looking to hit a scissor sweep but Weichel is one step ahead there.
Weichel trying to control the position from guard on top but Haggstrom is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Weichel working some strikes from top position.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Weichel pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Haggstrom is keeping the position for now.
Weichel is still trying to improve position.
Weichel takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Haggstrom is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Haggstrom looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Weichel wants to pass the guard but Haggstrom is keeping the position.
Weichel works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Haggstrom wants to get back to his feet.

Haggstrom is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Weichel pulls his head out easily.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Weichel is looking for a kimura but Haggstrom is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Weichel to get the leverage.

Haggstrom has managed to escape just enough to sneak back to his feet but Weichel is on him like a limpet, forcing Haggstrom back against the cage.
Weichel keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Haggstrom's efforts to push away.
Haggstrom wants to strike at distance but he can't break free of the clinch.
Weichel wants to push off and get back to the center of the mat but Haggstrom has him pressed against the cage.

Weichel gets a nice trip takedown into half guard.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Haggstrom has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Weichel is working away from the top position though.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Haggstrom is staying active underneath Weichel, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Nicholas Weichel has got the better of the ground game so far.

Weichel is looking for a kimura here.
Haggstrom is trying to get back to full guard.
Haggstrom throws a strike from the bottom that misses.
Haggstrom is trying to stand back up but Weichel is controlling him
Weichel is pressing down on Haggstrom's thigh, looking to free his foot. Haggstrom is holding on for now.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Weichel trying to control the action but Haggstrom is working from the bottom.
Weichel is pressing down on Haggstrom's thigh, looking to free his foot. Haggstrom is holding on for now.
Haggstrom keeping hold of Weichel's head, controlling as best he can.
Weichel seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Haggstrom trying to control here.
Haggstrom is staying active underneath Weichel, who seems content to just control the action from this position.

And that's the end of the fight!
Nicholas Weichel comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Weichel 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 Johanna Lukiainen scores the fight 28:29
Judge Tarja Halkonen scores the fight 28:29
Judge Roosa Järviläinen scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Nicholas Weichel!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
62%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Shamil Astakhov (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Kamil Gadzhiev (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Both these guys have really solid chins. Will we see a standup war or will they both decide that a knockout is unlikely and try to win the fight elsewhere?

Astakhov
vs
Gadzhiev

182 cm
25
210 lbs
5 - 1 - 0

193 cm
23
279 lbs
3 - 1 - 0

Good wrestling
Counter fighter
Good chin

Good takedowns
Brawler
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 1 - 0, fighting out of St Petersburg, Shamil Astakhov!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 1 - 0, fighting out of St Petersburg, Kamil Gadzhiev!
The judges for this bout are Marco Blurström, Tarja Halkonen and Roosa Järviläinen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Gadzhiev doesn't succeed with the takedown

and Astakhov counters into the clinch. Nicely done.

Astakhov tightens his grip and picks Gadzhiev up, before dumping him to the ground. Gadzhiev manages to land in guard.
Astakhov won't allow Gadzhiev to sweep him here.
Astakhov is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Gadzhiev looking to control.
Astakhov trying to control the position from guard on top but Gadzhiev is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Astakhov slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Shamil Astakhov has forced the referee to step in and bring the fight back to the feet.

Gadzhiev fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Astakhov sprawls well initially but Gadzhiev persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Gadzhiev trying to pass the guard but Astakhov defending well.
Gadzhiev keeps trying to improve his position.
Gadzhiev is keen to just control but Astakhov is a slippery customer.
Astakhov trying to control from the bottom.
Astakhov is trying to stand back up but Gadzhiev is controlling him
Gadzhiev is looking to stall here but Astakhov recovers full guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Gadzhiev won't allow Astakhov to sweep him here.

Astakhov is active off his back here, looking for submissions.

Astakhov has an active guard here but Gadzhiev has managed to pass into half guard.
Astakhov wants to get back to full guard.
Gadzhiev is pressing down on Astakhov's thigh, looking to free his foot. Astakhov is holding on for now.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Gadzhiev passes into side control, despite Astakhov's attempt to control the position.
Gadzhiev gets to mount! Astakhov was on the offensive and wasn't defending properly.
Gadzhiev tries to control but Astakhov wriggling away.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Gadzhiev controlling from the full mount.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gadzhiev trying to control but Astakhov is having none of it.
Astakhov is looking to improve his position but Gadzhiev isn't that keen on the idea.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Astakhov is working hard here to advance position.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.
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 Shamil Astakhov will probably get the nod.
That's time! Back to the action!

Gadzhiev shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Astakhov as he jumps to the side.
Gadzhiev shoots in but Astakhov avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Gadzhiev shoots in for a takedown but Astakhov shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Shamil Astakhov has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Kamil Gadzhiev.
Gadzhiev misses with a takedown attempt
and Astakhov counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Gadzhiev fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Gadzhiev with a lazy takedown attempt

and Astakhov counters by moving into the clinch. Good anticipation by Astakhov.
Gadzhiev is breathing heavily.
Gadzhiev can't get the takedown.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Astakhov is working on a single leg takedown against the cage. Gadzhiev can't fight it off and eventually Astakhov manages to take the fight to the floor. Gadzhiev looks annoyed but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Shamil Astakhov overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Astakhov trying to control the position from guard on top but Gadzhiev is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Astakhov throws an elbow that misses. Gadzhiev uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Astakhov's guard. Nice move by Gadzhiev!
Astakhov is working an open guard here, looking to improve his position. No doubt that will leave him open to counters but at least he's being more offensive.
Gadzhiev trying to control the position from guard on top but Astakhov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Gadzhiev won't allow Astakhov to sweep him here.
Astakhov managing to control the position.
Gadzhiev should think about turning a few of those tyres round his middle into muscle if he wants people to take him seriously as an athlete.
Astakhov is trying to keep Gadzhiev in close.
Astakhov wants to stand and escape but Gadzhiev is having none of it.

We're going to have a standup here because Shamil Astakhov wasn't active enough for the referee's liking.
Gadzhiev shoots and misses

and Astakhov counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Gadzhiev!
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!
Astakhov works a knee to the body and follows up with a nice elbow to the head.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Astakhov taking a breather here.
Astakhov connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Gadzhiev some visible discomfort.
Astakhov lands a few punches from side control.

Astakhov is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Gadzhiev knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Astakhov cracks Gadzhiev with a big elbow.
Gadzhiev is looking to regain half guard here but Astakhov keeps moving and retains side control.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Astakhov is looking to take a break and control but Gadzhiev is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
A lull in the action here.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Astakhov gets to mount! Gadzhiev was on the offensive and wasn't defending properly.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Shamil Astakhov dominated that second round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! So, we enter the final round. Let's see if either fighter can bring us a finish, or whether we're going to the judges scorecards.

Gadzhiev gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily

and Astakhov counters with a nice single leg takedown and he's in Gadzhiev's guard now.
Astakhov content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Astakhov tries to free his leg and advance position but Gadzhiev is retaining full guard.
Gadzhiev tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Gadzhiev utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Astakhov connects with a couple of short punches.

It looks like Kamil Gadzhiev has been cut.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Astakhov works over Gadzhiev with some ground and pound from guard.
Astakhov landing with the ground and pound.
Astakhov is stalling in the full guard.
Gadzhiev takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Astakhov is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Astakhov working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Astakhov looking to sit in guard and control but Gadzhiev gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.
Astakhov trying to strike from the bottom but really, it's not the best position to be doing that from!
Gadzhiev slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Astakhov is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Gadzhiev is aware though and is defending well.
Astakhov wants to hit a switch here but Gadzhiev passes into full mount! Oh no, disaster for Astakhov there!
Astakhov tries to improve his position but instead Gadzhiev has taken his back!
I really don't envy Astakhov right now.
I would not like to be Astakhov right now.
Gadzhiev keeps control of the position as Astakhov tries to break free.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Astakhov rolls and manages to get back to half guard. Nicely done.
Gadzhiev blocks the strikes from Astakhov.
Gadzhiev wants to control but Astakhov is keeping him busy.
Astakhov throws a strike from the bottom that misses.
Gadzhiev prevents Astakhov from improving his position.
The fighters are battling for position here. Astakhov manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Astakhov manages to land a sweep and now he's in mount on top!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gadzhiev is bucking up trying to escape but Astakhov cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
Astakhov lands with some strikes.
It really doesn't seem like the step up in weight is hurting Astakhov here at all. He's more than holding his own against the bigger man.
Astakhov looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Astakhov lands a big elbow.
Gadzhiev is looking to get to half guard.
Astakhov postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Gadzhiev looks a forlorn figure.
Kamil Gadzhiev has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Shamil Astakhov is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Gadzhiev takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.

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

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

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Shamil Astakhov!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
51%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Lotney Fratelli (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Mikael Mattsen (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). There are an array of beautiful celebrities at ringside tonight! I wonder if any of them paid for their tickets.

Fratelli
vs
Mattsen

180 cm
25
180 lbs
5 - 1 - 0

181 cm
25
178 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Excellent boxer
Good chin

BJJ White Belt
Excellent boxer
Tends to cut

Speedy Supps + Laundry

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the welterweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Lotney Fratelli!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Mikael Mattsen!
The judges for this bout are Johanna Lukiainen, Ben Zyskovitsi and Roosa Järviläinen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Fratelli throws a series of punches but Mattsen moves out of range.
Lotney Fratelli seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Fratelli throws a combination that misses

and Mattsen counters with a nice double leg into guard.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Fratelli manages to land a sweep and now he's in mount on top!
Fratelli wants to control the pace but Mattsen is squirming around nicely.
Mattsen is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Mattsen is trying desperately to improve position.
Fratelli trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Mattsen tries to lock up and control but Fratelli gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Fratelli trying to control but Mattsen is having none of it.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Mattsen can do anything to dispel that myth.

Fratelli is standing up out of mount! Strange tactic there - he must really want this one on the feet!

That's one minute gone in the round.
Fratelli moves in looking to clinch but Mattsen pushes him off.
Mattsen shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Fratelli misses with the combination.
Lotney Fratelli is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.

Mattsen closes the distance and clinches.
Mattsen prevents Fratelli from breaking the clinch.
Fratelli tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Mattsen tries to pull guard but Fratelli holds him up against the cage and eventually Mattsen drops back down to his feet.
Mattsen is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Mattsen fails to pull guard.
Mattsen missing with knees to the body.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Fratelli is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.

Mattsen's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.

Mattsen drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Fratelli is trying to get back to his feet.
Fratelli is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Mattsen off and has taken his back!
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
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!
Mattsen staying busy and making it hard for Fratelli to control.
Mattsen trying to control the hands but Fratelli won't let him.
Mattsen can't escape the position.
Mattsen staying busy and making it hard for Fratelli to control.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Mattsen wants to escape the position.
Mattsen trying to control but he's just got himself in more trouble.
The crowd hopeful of a finish here - Fratelli's supporters are on their feet, screaming for him to go for the rear naked choke.
Fratelli not allowing Mattsen to control his hands.
Fratelli struggling to keep hold of the position.
Fratelli is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Mattsen is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Fratelli is hanging on to Mattsen's back as he tries to escape.
Fratelli struggling to keep hold of the position.
Mattsen rolls, trying to escape but Fratelli keeps control of the position.
Fratelli trying to control.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
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 Lotney Fratelli will probably get the nod.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!

Mattsen shoots in looking for a takedown but Fratelli manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Mattsen's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Fratelli swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Fratelli misses with a lunging right hand

and Mattsen counters with a single leg into guard. Fratelli didn't expect that.
Fratelli not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Mattsen wants to pass the guard but Fratelli is keeping the position.
Fratelli wants to stand but Mattsen is controlling the position.
Fratelli bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Mattsen's guard.
Fratelli wanted to stand there but Mattsen had control of the position.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Fratelli works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Fratelli seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Mattsen does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Fratelli is really struggling to control Mattsen but he's trying to hold on to the position.
Mattsen is trying to get back to full guard.
Fratelli is trying to control the action in half guard but Mattsen is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Mattsen is looking to escape.
Fratelli is keen to just control but Mattsen is a slippery customer.

Lotney Fratelli has forced the referee to step in and bring the fight back to the feet.
Fratelli throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Mattsen stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Fratelli tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Mattsen paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Mattsen wants to clinch up but Fratelli keeps it at a distance.
Fratelli misses with an uppercut.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Mattsen.
Mattsen is breathing heavily.
Fratelli keeps the fight on the outside.
Mattsen dodges the punch combination from Fratelli.
Mattsen tries to clinch up but Fratelli circles away and keeps his distance.
Fratelli scores with a nice looking left hook and follows it up with an uppercut!
Nice jab there from Mattsen.
Mattsen tries to clinch there but Fratelli circles away.
Fratelli misses with a straight right.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Mattsen shuffles to his left behind two crisp jabs. Fratelli eats them both and turns towards Mattsen to reposition himself and eats a stinging right hand-left hook combo.
Fratelli throws an off balance right hand
and Mattsen counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
No luck for Mattsen with that takedown attempt.
Lotney Fratelli has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Mikael Mattsen.
Fratelli misses with an uppercut. Mattsen saw that one coming.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Fratelli lands with a good body shot.

Mattsen looking to score a takedown here. Fratelli is defending well but Mattsen drives through and ends up in Fratelli's guard.
Lotney Fratelli overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Fratelli is looking to stand up but Mattsen isn't so interested in that idea.
Mattsen must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Fratelli looking to hit a scissor sweep but Mattsen is one step ahead there.
Fratelli wants to get back to his feet but Mattsen is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Fratelli looking to control.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Mattsen stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Fratelli swivels though and keeps the full guard.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters - he looks like he's thinking about a standup.
Fratelli controls Mattsen momentarily but Mattsen frees himself.

The ref stands the fighters back up. Lotney Fratelli wasn't doing enough on the ground.
A big right from Fratelli misses.

Mattsen scores with a takedown into Fratelli'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!
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Mattsen drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Mattsen jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Fratelli wants to get back to his feet but Mattsen is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Mikael Mattsen 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!

Fratelli misses with a hook.
Jab, jab by Fratelli - just one landing.
Fratelli throws a lazy uppercut
and Mattsen counters with a series of strikes. Fratelli will be more careful next time no doubt.
Mattsen will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Mattsen takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Fratelli swinging wildly here.
Fratelli takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Nice straight punches there by Mattsen. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Mattsen.
Mattsen shoots in for a double leg but Fratelli sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Mattsen takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Fratelli misses with a series of wild punches.
Mattsen ducks under a wild hook from Fratelli.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Fratelli throws a series of punches but Mattsen moves out of range.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Mattsen.

Mattsen takes the fight into the clinch.
Mattsen with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Fratelli tries to circle away but Mattsen has him pinned against the cage.
Fratelli has had enough of the clinch and is looking to separate.

Mattsen pulls guard successfully.
Fratelli wants to get up but he can't break Mattsen's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.
Fratelli pushes down on Mattsen's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Fratelli passes to side control.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Mattsen tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Fratelli wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Fratelli tries to stand but Mattsen is controlling his head.
Mattsen struggling a bit here.
Mattsen is looking for a sweep.
Mattsen tries to slip a leg under to move to half guard but Fratelli presses down on the leg and jumps into full mount!

Fratelli stands up from mount. Strange move.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Mattsen gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Fratelli fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Mattsen manages to avoid it.
Fratelli throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Mattsen moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Fratelli rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Mattsen moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Mattsen tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Fratelli swivels and escapes.
Lotney Fratelli has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Mikael Mattsen.
Fratelli fails with an attempt to clinch.
The fight stays on the outside here - Fratelli looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Fratelli misses with a wild body shot.
Lotney Fratelli is winning the standup battle so far.
Mattsen fails with a takedown attempt.
A punch combination from Fratelli misses.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Fratelli throws a jab but it's blocked by Mattsen.
Mattsen ducks under a wild hook from Fratelli.
Fratelli fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Mattsen manages to avoid it.
Mattsen misses with a head kick.
Fratelli lands a jab, followed by a cross and another cross, as Mattsen backs up against the cage.
Mattsen dives in and grabs Fratelli's left leg, looking for a takedown. Fratelli pushes down on Mattsen's head and hops out.
Fratelli scores with a shot to the body.
Fratelli thuds a left hand into Mattsen's body.
Mattsen takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Mattsen doesn't manage to clinch there - Fratelli circles away.

Mattsen takes the fight into the clinch.
Mattsen is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Fratelli is keeping busy.

And that's the end of the fight!
Lotney Fratelli showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Fratelli has won this one but let's see what the judges have to say. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Johanna Lukiainen scores the fight 29:28
Judge Ben Zyskovitsi scores the fight 29:28
Judge Roosa Järviläinen scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Lotney Fratelli!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
65%

Main event

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Nikola Veljanovski (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Mikael Saarrinen (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Nikola Veljanovski has the edge in experience - let's see if he can make that count tonight.

Veljanovski
vs
Saarrinen

182 cm
26
227 lbs
17 - 7 - 0

188 cm
23
210 lbs
1 - 6 - 0

Good wrestling
Basic striking
Experienced

BJJ White Belt
Excellent boxer
Heavy handed

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 17 - 7 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Nikola Veljanovski!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Mikael Saarrinen!
The judges for this bout are Marco Blurström, Roosa Järviläinen and Johanna Lukiainen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
The fight stays on the outside here - Saarrinen looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Saarrinen wants to clinch up but Veljanovski keeps it at a distance.
The fight stays on the outside here - Saarrinen looks like he's thinking about clinching though.

Veljanovski decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Saarrinen taking some punishment here, with Veljanovski in his half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Veljanovski looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Veljanovski is controlling the pace.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Veljanovski passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Saarrinen!
Veljanovski loads up on a couple of big shots to the head that have Saarrinen scrambling to escape. He can't get free though and several more unanswered shots from Veljanovski land to the head. The referee has no choice but to stop the fight. Veljanovski stands and salutes the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Nikola Veljanovski!