BFT-427: Nitschke vs Yauch PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Rodrigo Silva (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Brij Khali (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Silva
vs
Khali

170 cm
33
158 lbs
11 - 5 - 1

175 cm
48
160 lbs
35 - 56 - 1

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
Granite chin

BJJ Purple Belt
Decent boxing
Granite 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 11 - 5 - 1, fighting out of Tokyo, Rodrigo Silva !
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 35 - 56 - 1, fighting out of Sydney, Brij Khali!
The judges for this bout are Donatello Bradman, Francis DeMontford and Damien Edna.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Silva misses with a straight left.
Despite the aggression on Khali's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
A slow jab from Silva misses its intended target.

Khali drives through with a takedown into guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Silva is pulling down on Khali's head. It's preventing any offense from Khali, at least for the moment.
Khali wants to stand and escape but instead Silva has hit a sweep and he's now on top in guard.

We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Silva wants to control from the top but Khali keeps moving.
Silva postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Silva has been looking to land a fair amount of strikes on the ground. He might be looking to soften his opponent up in order to work for a submission.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Khali seems keen to control Silva 's posture.
Let's hope that Khali has the urge to step up the pace any second now because for the last 15 or 20 seconds he's just been holding on tight.
Khali keeping full guard, as Silva tries to pass.
Khali can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Silva controls the pace.
Silva won't allow Khali to get back to his feet.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Khali working a defensive guard here.
Silva advances position into side control!
Khali wants to control but Silva postures up.
Silva controlling the position from side mount.
Silva wants to lay and pray for a moment but Khali keeps working.
Silva moves into full mount!

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Silva trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Silva misses with a head shot.
Silva looking to finish with strikes here!
Silva controlling his opponent.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
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.
Khali tries to hold on but Silva postures up.
Silva looking to finish with strikes here!
Khali tries to lock up and control but Silva gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Silva controlling from mount.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Silva thowing strikes but they're hitting the gloves, not doing any damage.
Silva content just to control the position here.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Rodrigo Silva dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!

Silva misses with a left hand

and Khali decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Silva 's guard.
Silva pulls Khali in to control the position.
Khali won't allow Silva to get back to his feet.
Silva is trying to control the position but Khali postures up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Khali looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
Rodrigo Silva overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Khali postures up.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Silva pushes Khali off and gets back to his feet.

Silva closes the distance and pushes Khali back into the cage.

Silva has clasped his hands together around Khali's back... aaand, he's got a takedown into side control. Nicely done.
Silva is looking to take a break and control but Khali is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Silva in side control, throwing shots but Khali defends.
The strikes coming from Silva are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
Khali is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Silva asserts his dominance and retains side control.
Silva content to control the pace. The referee will try and keep them active though.
Silva 's ground tactics aren't going to win him many fans. Let's hope he's got fireworks for us if he gets back to his feet because he's not doing much on the ground.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Silva creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Khali sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
The ground and pound from Silva seems to be hitting the mat more than his opponent.
Silva wants to control but Khali is keeping him busy.
Khali struggling a bit here.
Silva trying to control the position but Khali is working away.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Rodrigo Silva seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.

Silva drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.

Khali manages to escape and get back to his feet.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Khali manages to get an easy takedown there - catching Silva on his heels. He'll look to pass Silva 's guard now, I'm sure.

Silva pushes Khali off for just long enough to get back to his feet. Very athletic spring there.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Khali moves out of range of the leg kick from Silva .
Khali changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Khali slips a jab and a cross from Silva .
Khali bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Khali drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Silva defends it well.

Silva shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Rodrigo Silva dominated that second round.
That's time! Back to the action! And we move into the final round!

Silva throws a body kick that misses.
Khali is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Horrible takedown attempt by Khali or perhaps it was just good defense by Silva , which made it look bad.
Silva appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.

Silva takes the fight into the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Khali is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Silva pulls him back up using the underhooks.

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

Silva shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Silva showed some decent athleticism there.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Silva has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Khali is squirming around, avoiding Silva 's attempts to control the action.
Khali is looking to improve his position but Silva isn't that keen on the idea.
Khali is squirming around, avoiding Silva 's attempts to control the action.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
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.
Brij Khali has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Silva controlling the pace for now.
Silva trying to control but Khali is having none of it.
Silva controlling from mount.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Khali is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Silva controlling from the full mount.
Silva wants to control the action but instead Khali gets a body lock and reverses into Silva 's guard! Nice work!
Khali must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Khali preventing the sweep.
Khali is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Khali wants to get up but he can't break Silva 's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Khali preventing the sweep.

Khali gets to his feet and steps away from his opponent.
Khali fails with the takedown.
Rodrigo Silva has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Brij Khali.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!

Silva darts in and clinches Khali up against the cage.

And that's the end of the fight!
Rodrigo Silva showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Silva 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 Donatello Bradman scores the fight 30:27
Judge Francis DeMontford scores the fight 30:27
Judge Damien Edna scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Rodrigo Silva !
During a confident post fight interview, Rodrigo Silva thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.
In defeat, Brij Khali stepped up to the mic, saying 'Dissapointed to Lose'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
28%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Jason Hardy (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Hamish Gaffney (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Hardy comes to the cage accompanied by Coming home -Dirty money. Jason Hardy has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Hardy
vs
Gaffney

180 cm
43
160 lbs
23 - 14 - 1

187 cm
39
182 lbs
14 - 27 - 2

Good wrestling
Excellent boxer
Insanely flexible

Good wrestler
Excellent MT
Good gas tank

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 23 - 14 - 1, fighting out of Tokyo, Jason Hardy!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 14 - 27 - 2, fighting out of Sydney, Hamish Gaffney!
The judges for this bout are Bruno Hogan, Winston Howard and Steve Erwin.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Gaffney throws a left and a right that both miss
and Hardy counters with a nice body shot.
Gaffney takes a head kick and shrugs it off.
Gaffney misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Hardy has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Sports Fitness $50 in the buildup to the fight.

Hardy shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Gaffney napping and manages to drive through into side control!

Gaffney explodes and escapes back to his feet! Nice escape there!
Gaffney 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.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Gaffney shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Hardy defends it nicely.
Gaffney misses with a wild combination.
Gaffney looks for a takedown but Hardy sprawls well.
Jason Hardy has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Hamish Gaffney.
Hardy scores with a hook.
Gaffney shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Hardy as he avoids it easily.

Hardy changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Gaffney looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Gaffney is trying to escape the position but Hardy is controlling the position.
Gaffney is trying to buck Hardy off.
Gaffney is looking for a sweep.
Hardy misses with a strike but at least he's keeping busy, looking to cause some damage - that will still help him when it comes to the judges scorecards.
Gaffney is looking to reverse the position.
Hardy tries to score with some ground and pound. Gaffney controls his posture well this time though and the shots don't do any damage.
Gaffney is trying to improve his position.
Hardy wants to control for a moment but Gaffney uses the opportunity to move back to half guard.

Gaffney looking for submissions off his back.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Hardy lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Gaffney is trying to control but can't.
Hardy scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Hardy lands strikes from half guard.
Gaffney is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Hardy scores with a couple of nice shots.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Hardy wants to pass the guard but Gaffney is defending well.
Gaffney is trying to stand.
Hardy is trying to control the action in half guard but Gaffney is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.

Gaffney is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Hardy pulls his head out easily.
Gaffney controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.
Hardy takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
A looping hook to the body misses from Hardy. Gaffney does a little dance to reset his feet.
Gaffney attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
Gaffney lands with a nice combination. Hardy backs away looking to recover.
Hardy lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Hardy uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Gaffney.
Gaffney uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Hardy.
Hardy throws a jab when Gaffney was well out of range.
Gaffney moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Nice defenses there by Gaffney.
Gaffney lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Hardy circles away quickly and effectively.
As Gaffney looks to move away, Hardy throws a big counter combo but Gaffney just gets out of the way.
Gaffney doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Hardy counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Gaffney looks to throw the jab but Hardy is out of range.
Gaffney throws a left and a right that both miss
and Hardy counters with a straight right hand.

Hardy drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Gaffney wants to sweep here but Hardy controlling him for the moment.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Gaffney shoots in looking for a takedown but Hardy manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Gaffney's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Gaffney closes the distance and clinches up with Hardy, looking for a takedown. Gaffney pushes Hardy against the cage but Hardy circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
A looping hook to the body misses from Gaffney. Hardy does a little dance to reset his feet.
Jab from Gaffney.
Gaffney throws a head kick that half lands.
Hardy lands a nice shot that snaps Gaffney's head back.
Hardy throws a good cross that connects.
Gaffney throws a mid kick that lands with a slap.
Gaffney avoids a punch combination nicely.
Gaffney throws a sloppy head kick
and Hardy connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Gaffney defending well as Hardy loads up on a big left hand.

Hardy closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Gaffney's guard.
Gaffney is looking to stand back up but Hardy counters by passing into half guard. Oops... bit sloppy there by Gaffney.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.

Hardy wants to work for an arm triangle but Gaffney is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hardy sitting and controlling from the half guard.
Gaffney is looking to escape.
Gaffney avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Hardy.
Gaffney trying to control but Hardy postures up.
Hardy not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Gaffney tries to kick Hardy off but Hardy keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
Jason Hardy overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Hardy looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Gaffney with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.

Hardy is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Gaffney is just riding it out for now. Hardy eventually gives up the hold.
Gaffney tries to get to full guard but Hardy has control of the leg.
Gaffney makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Gaffney.
Hardy throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Gaffney works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
It really doesn't seem like the step up in weight is hurting Hardy here at all. He's more than holding his own against the bigger man.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Gaffney preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Hardy pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Gaffney is keeping the position for now.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Gaffney is on top in guard.

Gaffney lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Gaffney wants to control from the top but Hardy keeps moving.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Hardy is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Hardy preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Gaffney slips nicely into half guard.
Hardy regains full guard. Nicely done.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Hardy tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Hardy trying to keep a closed guard but Gaffney is proving a slippery customer.
Gaffney connects with a couple of short punches.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Hardy trying to control the position.
Hardy keeping moving, preventing Gaffney from controlling successfully.
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 Jason Hardy will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!

Hardy blocks a head kick by Gaffney.
Gaffney uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Hardy.
Hamish Gaffney is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Gaffney tests Hardy's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Gaffney shoots in looking for a takedown but Hardy manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Gaffney's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Hardy is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Gaffney shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Hardy pinned against the cage. Hardy gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Hardy scores with a jab.
Gaffney misses with a hook.

Hardy manages to get an easy takedown there - catching Gaffney on his heels. He'll look to pass Gaffney's guard now, I'm sure.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Gaffney keeping moving, preventing Hardy from controlling successfully.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hardy tries to free his leg and advance position but Gaffney is retaining full guard.
Gaffney is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Gaffney tries to strike from the bottom.

Gaffney is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Hardy is stalling in the full guard.
Gaffney doesn't do any damage with a couple of strikes from the bottom.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Jason Hardy is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
The fighters circling - Hardy throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Gaffney shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Jason Hardy has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Hamish Gaffney.
Gaffney shoots in for a takedown but Hardy shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Nice shot lands for Hardy.
Hardy jabs Gaffney to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Gaffney shoots in and drives through. Hardy sprawls well.
Hardy is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Gaffney takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Gaffney tries for a takedown but Hardy sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Hardy moves into range and connects with a jab.
Hardy stuffs the takedown attempt from Gaffney. Gaffney gets slowly back to his feet.
Hardy lands a jab to Gaffney's midsection.
Hardy's corner calls for a 1-2. Hardy obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Hardy works over Gaffney's head and body with a nice combination.
Gaffney lands with a hook. Hardy tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Hardy fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Gaffney manages to avoid it.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
A big left from Gaffney misses.
Hardy lands a jab. Then a cross. Then finally a nice hook to the body. Good work there by Hardy.
Jason Hardy is winning the standup battle so far.
Gaffney punishes Hardy's body with a nice straight punch.
Gaffney misses with a looping left.
Hardy was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Gaffney uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Hardy.
Gaffney throws a body kick that misses
enabling Hardy to counter with a crisp jab.
Hardy jabs at Gaffney's body.
Gaffney swings away with a body shot that misses
and Hardy counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Gaffney is looking to land body kicks.
Hardy throws a big counter combination but Gaffney scrambles out of danger and avoids any damage.
Gaffney has his takedown stuffed
letting Hardy counter with a right hand.
Gaffney lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.

Hardy drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Gaffney dodges the ground and pound from Hardy.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gaffney is not content to let Hardy control the position.
Gaffney is trying to buck Hardy off.
Hardy misses with the ground and pound.
Gaffney tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Hardy wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Hardy is looking to take a break and control but Gaffney is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Hardy in side control lands a decent elbow.

And that's the end of the fight!
Jason Hardy showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Hardy 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 Bruno Hogan scores the fight 30:27
Judge Winston Howard scores the fight 30:27
Judge Steve Erwin scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Jason Hardy!
In his post fight interview, Jason Hardy started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
47%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Shinya Aoki (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Seth Duplesris (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Shinya Aoki could well score a knockout today. He has the power to get to Seth Duplesris's chin.

Aoki
vs
Duplesris

176 cm
31
158 lbs
8 - 12 - 0

163 cm
34
155 lbs
19 - 32 - 0

Abu Dhabi Champ
Excellent boxer
Cardio machine

BJJ Brown Belt
Decent boxing
Knockout power

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 8 - 12 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Shinya Aoki !
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 19 - 32 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Seth Duplesris!
The judges for this bout are Skip Squint, Winston Howard and Steve Erwin.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Aoki shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Duplesris napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Duplesris is looking to get back to his feet here but Aoki is keeping cool and he's managed to take Duplesris's back.
Duplesris tries to escape but Aoki has the hooks in and won't let him break free.
Aoki is working the ground and pound. Can Duplesris escape?

Duplesris defends a rear naked choke attempt by controlling one of Aoki 's arms.
Aoki is not going to allow Duplesris to sit and survive in this position.
Duplesris trying to get back to his feet but Aoki is in full control for now.
Aoki is punishing Duplesris with some ground and pound.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Duplesris is really stuck here.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Duplesris breaks Aoki 's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
Aoki utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Duplesris preventing the sweep.

Aoki working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Duplesris doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Duplesris manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Duplesris throws a strike but Aoki rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top.

Aoki trying to control the position from guard on top but Duplesris is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Duplesris working a defensive guard but Aoki passes into half guard.

Duplesris is defending against the submission attempts here by Aoki .
Aoki is taking a breather. Duplesris says something to him but it's hard to make out. Perhaps he's telling him to get on with it and actually do something.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Duplesris wants to get back to full guard.
Aoki is trying to control. Duplesris wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Duplesris is looking for a sweep. Aoki is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Duplesris wants to control but Aoki is keeping busy and won't allow it.

Aoki wants to work for an arm triangle but Duplesris is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Nice strikes from Aoki there.
Duplesris trying to control here.
Aoki stops Duplesris from getting back to his feet.
Duplesris wants to get back to full guard but Aoki has mounted him!
Aoki will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Aoki lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.

It looks like Seth Duplesris has been cut.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Aoki postures up and throws a big right hand. BOOM! Right on the button! Duplesris is out cold - huge knockout for Aoki !

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Shinya Aoki !
Shinya Aoki made sure to mention his sponsor, GREEN!160 in his post fight interview.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
44%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Roger Cantor (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Emong Salvacion (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Salvacion is bobbing his head along to his entrance song: Till I Collapse. Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Cantor
vs
Salvacion

175 cm
28
163 lbs
13 - 12 - 0

178 cm
31
166 lbs
14 - 13 - 1

Good wrestling
Excellent boxer
Cardio machine

Excellent grappler
Excellent boxer
Good gas tank

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 13 - 12 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Roger Cantor!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 14 - 13 - 1, fighting out of Tokyo, Emong Salvacion!
The judges for this bout are Ron Honeybunn, Bruno Hogan and John Mangel.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Cantor shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
Cantor wants to control from the top but Salvacion keeps moving.
Cantor stopping the sweep attempt from Salvacion.
Salvacion being controlled here, momentarily.
Cantor is fighting to break Salvacion's control of his arms but Salvacion is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
Cantor sitting in guard, not really doing much.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cantor stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Salvacion swivels though and keeps the full guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Cantor throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Cantor stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Salvacion swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Cantor is working hard here to advance position.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Cantor uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Salvacion.
Cantor lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
A big right from Cantor misses.
Salvacion blocks the body kick.

Cantor is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Salvacion's half guard.
Salvacion holds on for dear life, maintaining half guard for now.
Cantor wants to control but Salvacion is keeping him busy.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Cantor sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Salvacion defending well though.
Salvacion manages to get to full guard.
Cantor trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Cantor wants to control from the top but Salvacion keeps moving.
Cantor connects with a couple of short punches.
Salvacion looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Salvacion preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Salvacion can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cantor controls the pace.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Salvacion 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.
Salvacion keeping moving, preventing Cantor from controlling successfully.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Cantor throws a hook but Salvacion blocks it.
Cantor tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Salvacion defends well and Cantor ends up having to push Salvacion into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Salvacion swats away the attempt to clinch by Cantor.
Salvacion fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Cantor looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Cantor is trying hard to land a takedown here. Salvacion sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Salvacion lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.
A jab lands there for Salvacion.

Cantor closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Salvacion's guard.
Cantor has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Salvacion looking for a sweep. Not yet Salvacion, not yet.
Salvacion avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Salvacion trying to keep a closed guard but Cantor is proving a slippery customer.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cantor trying to control but Salvacion is working from the bottom.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Roger Cantor dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!

That kick from Cantor tenderised Salvacion's leg. Salvacion is trying to keep his angry face on.
A good leg kick by Cantor.
Cantor throws a body kick that misses.
Emong Salvacion is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Cantor tries for a takedown but Salvacion sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Cantor lands with a right hand.
Cantor connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Cantor throws a nice outside leg kick.
Salvacion lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Cantor circles away quickly and effectively.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cantor tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Salvacion manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Cantor tries for a takedown but Salvacion sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Cantor misses with a low kick.
Cantor throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Salvacion on the side of the head.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Salvacion swings and misses with a hook to the body.

Cantor closes the distance and clinches.

Salvacion is fighting off a takedown attempt but Cantor is just too persistent for him and manages to trip Salvacion to the mat. Salvacion regains guard as soon as the fighters hit the mat.
Cantor looking to sit in guard and control but Salvacion gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.

Salvacion trying to control but Cantor is working from the bottom.
Cantor preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Salvacion is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Cantor looking for a sweep. Not yet Cantor, not yet.
Salvacion with a nice head shot there.
Cantor trying to keep a closed guard but Salvacion is proving a slippery customer.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Salvacion lands a couple of elbows.
Salvacion scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Cantor being controlled here, momentarily.
Cantor is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move.

Cantor is looking to take a break and control but Salvacion is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Salvacion is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Salvacion blocking the ground and pound attempt from Cantor.
Salvacion trying to control from the bottom.
Cantor prevents Salvacion from improving his position.
Salvacion is refusing to be controlled, as Cantor sits in half guard.
Salvacion is looking to improve his position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Cantor not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Salvacion tries to roll over but Cantor keeps him under control.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
Cantor is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Salvacion can do to turn this around?
Salvacion keeping hold of Cantor's head, controlling as best he can.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Salvacion misses with a combination

and Cantor counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Salvacion!
Cantor trying to control the position but Salvacion is working away.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Salvacion is trying to control Cantor's posture but Cantor avoids it.
Cantor throws an elbow but Salvacion slips to the side and avoids it well.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Roger Cantor dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!

Cantor fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Salvacion, pushing him back against the cage.
Salvacion has Cantor pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Cantor manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.

Cantor gets the body lock takedown. After a quick scramble, Salvacion regains guard.
Salvacion lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.

Roger Cantor overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Cantor trying to keep a closed guard but Salvacion is proving a slippery customer.
Cantor wants to sweep but no luck.

Cantor 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.
Cantor looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Cantor keeping moving, preventing Salvacion from controlling successfully.
Cantor controlling Salvacion's posture.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Cantor keeping moving, preventing Salvacion from controlling successfully.
Cantor trying to control the position.
Salvacion looking to pass the guard.
Cantor trying to control the position.

Salvacion got a little sloppy there for a moment and Cantor has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Salvacion has managed to get both his arms back between Cantor's legs - danger averted.
Salvacion passes Cantor's left leg - he's now in half guard.

Cantor is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Salvacion pulls his head out easily.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
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.
Cantor is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Salvacion landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Cantor blocking the ground and pound attempt from Salvacion.
Salvacion is controlling the pace.
Cantor is trying to get back to full guard.
Cantor is in a tricky position but he's been working on his transitions down at Madz **21 Elite coaches**, so we'll see if he gets out of it.
Salvacion uses his free foot to push down on Cantor's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Cantor.
Salvacion wants to control the pace but Cantor is squirming around nicely.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Salvacion with shots to the head and body - Cantor looks very uncomfortable down there.
Salvacion controlling from mount.
Cantor tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Salvacion working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Salvacion content just to control the position here.
Cantor regains half guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Cantor is looking to control Salvacion's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Cantor avoid being mounted?

Salvacion is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Cantor is just riding it out for now. Salvacion eventually gives up the hold.
Cantor is not content to let Salvacion control the position.
Cantor wants to get back to full guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Salvacion keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.
Cantor makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Cantor.
Emong Salvacion has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Cantor is on top in guard.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Emong Salvacion.
Well Cantor 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 Ron Honeybunn scores the fight 29:28
Judge Bruno Hogan scores the fight 29:28
Judge John Mangel scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Roger Cantor!
Roger Cantor decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.
Emong Salvacion was interviewed post fight and said 'Thank you so much to the fans, my family, this is it. I'm done and I'm going out with a grateful heart thank you so much guys!'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
31%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Igor Wietrzny (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Frankie Edgar (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Wietrzny kept the crowd waiting but all that was forgotten when his ring entrance music started. The incomparable musical genius that is Hunter-Fallen. Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Wietrzny
vs
Edgar

174 cm
43
163 lbs
22 - 27 - 0

168 cm
32
160 lbs
10 - 2 - 1

Abu Dhabi Champ
Excellent boxer
Cardio machine

Olympic wrestler
World class boxer
Good gas tank

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 22 - 27 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Igor Wietrzny!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 10 - 2 - 1, fighting out of Sydney, Frankie Edgar!
The judges for this bout are Eliza Hachem, Steve Erwin and Winston Howard.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Edgar checks a leg kick.

Edgar clinches up against the cage.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Edgar as Wietrzny tries to tie him up.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Edgar.
Wietrzny throws a punch but it's blocked by Edgar.
Wietrzny is looking to take this one to the mat.
Wietrzny misses with a hook from the clinch.
Wietrzny trying to stall but Edgar improves his position.
Edgar takes a shot to the head.

Edgar escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Edgar digs a good hook to Wietrzny's body.

The fight moves into the clinch position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Edgar wants to break free. God knows he wants to breaaaak freeee.
Wietrzny keeps control of Edgar as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks.
Wietrzny misses with the head strike.
Wietrzny swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Wietrzny lands with a short shot to the head.

Edgar breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Edgar dips to his left and cracks Wietrzny with an uppercut!
Edgar scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Wietrzny doesn't seem bothered though.
Edgar drops his hands momentarily and Wietrzny takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Edgar throws a left and a right that both miss
and Wietrzny counters with an outside leg kick.
Edgar throws a lazy right hand but Wietrzny sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Wietrzny looks to land a combination but Edgar avoids it well.
Edgar stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Wietrzny staying out of range there.
Frankie Edgar is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Wietrzny connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Edgar missing with a left hand there. Wietrzny was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Edgar connects with a crisp jab.
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!
Wietrzny dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Edgar. That did some damage!
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Edgar has been working on his takedowns a lot in the buildup to the fight and we can only assume he's going to look to take this to the mat.
Wietrzny keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Edgar.
Wietrzny scores with a nice right hand.
Edgar is looking to score with low kicks.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Wietrzny drops his hands momentarily and Edgar takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Edgar getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Edgar circles away from the clinch attempt.
Edgar takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Wietrzny connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Edgar's hands.
Edgar lands a body shot.
Wietrzny ducks under a wild hook from Edgar.
Wietrzny takes a jab right on the kisser.
Wietrzny lets loose with a powerful body kick. Edgar will feel that in the morning.
Wietrzny misses with a low kick.
Wietrzny is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Edgar.
Wietrzny dodges the punch combination from Edgar.
Edgar missing with a left hand there. Wietrzny was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Edgar connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
A jab from Edgar misses.
Edgar is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Edgar misses with a hook.
Edgar circles away from the clinch attempt.
Edgar throws a hook to the side of Wietrzny's head but Wietrzny sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
A slapping leg kick lands for Edgar.
Wietrzny tries to close the distance and clinch but Edgar swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Good work by Edgar as he checks the leg kick.
Edgar throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Wietrzny is looking to slow Edgar down with leg kicks.
Edgar moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Wietrzny takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Edgar walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Edgar scores with a nice right hand.
Wietrzny drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.

Wietrzny is rocked!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Edgar throws a poor cross that misses

and Wietrzny holds on and brings the fighters into a clinch.
Oh Wietrzny is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Wietrzny avoiding damage.
Wietrzny tries a knee to the head but Edgar blocks it.
Wietrzny seems to have got his legs back now.
Edgar can't break the clinch.
Wietrzny swings wildly with an uppercut but Edgar uses good head movement to avoid it.
Edgar can't break the clinch.
Wietrzny working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Wietrzny misses with a punch on the inside.

Edgar manages to break the clinch.
Edgar slips a straight right by Wietrzny.
It seemed like Edgar was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Edgar thows a left - swing and a miss!
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
A bone on bone clash there as Wietrzny blocks the leg kick.
A low kick from Wietrzny is predictable there
and Edgar counters with a leg kick.
Wietrzny throws a shot from downtown. Edgar moves away and avoids it.
Edgar lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Frankie Edgar dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.

Edgar throws a nice looking combination but Wietrzny bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Frankie Edgar seems to be getting the better of the standup.
The fighters circling - Edgar throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Wietrzny tries to counter by clinching up but Edgar breaks away and moves out of range.
Wietrzny lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Wietrzny has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Edgar finds it's way round the side to connect with Wietrzny's head.
Edgar steps in with a hook that catches Wietrzny right on the chin and knocks him to the floor! Edgar follows him down with more strikes and that's all she wrote! Wietrzny looks absolutely devastated.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:21 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Frankie Edgar!
During a confident post fight interview, Frankie Edgar thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
64%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Kazunori Ishii (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Delphino Atlantis (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Ishii comes into the arena with Imagine Dragons - Radioactive blaring out of the sound system. Atlantis has chosen Refused - New Noise as his entrance music. Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Ishii
vs
Atlantis

176 cm
37
165 lbs
21 - 13 - 0

175 cm
27
170 lbs
12 - 4 - 2

Good wrestling
Excellent boxer
Granite chin

Excellent grappler
Good low kicks
Good gas tank

THE END 32

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 21 - 13 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Kazunori Ishii!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 12 - 4 - 2, fighting out of Sydney, Delphino Atlantis!
The judges for this bout are Topper Green, Winston Howard and Bruno Hogan.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Ishii scores with the left hand. Atlantis knows he should have avoided that one.
Ishii misses with an uppercut.

Atlantis closes the distance and pushes Ishii back into the cage.
Ishii 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.

Atlantis has dropped down and is working for a takedown. Ishii is trying to keep an underhook but Atlantis manages to get the takedown into half guard.
Ishii tries to kick Atlantis off in order to stand up. Atlantis Avoids the leg push though and dives into side control.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Atlantis working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
Atlantis sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Ishii is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Atlantis is looking to take a break and control but Ishii is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Atlantis taking a break here but Ishii is having none of it and regains half guard.
Ishii is not content to let Atlantis control the position.
Atlantis with a momentary lay and pray from half guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Atlantis is looking for a kimura here.
Atlantis misses with a head shot. Ishii uses the momentum to regain guard.
Atlantis trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Atlantis trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Atlantis is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Ishii is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Atlantis trying to control the position from guard on top but Ishii is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Atlantis chips away with some ground and pound.
Atlantis trying to control the position from guard on top but Ishii is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Ishii looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Atlantis tries to free his leg and advance position but Ishii is retaining full guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Ishii being controlled here, momentarily.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Ishii lands the left hand.
Ishii swats away the attempt to clinch by Atlantis.
Atlantis misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
It looked like Ishii was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.

Atlantis instigates a clinch.
Atlantis is looking for a takedown.
Ishii has a couple of punches blocked by Atlantis.
Atlantis has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Ishii after a bit of a struggle.
Atlantis tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Ishii avoids it.

Atlantis breaks from the clinch.
Ishii throws out a leg kick but Atlantis moves out of range and Ishii only half commits.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
A jab lands there for Ishii.
The sound of bone on bone echoes around the arena as Atlantis checks a leg kick.
Kazunori Ishii seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Atlantis misses with a head kick.
A right-left combo lands from Ishii.
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!
Atlantis takes one on the chin but seems OK.

Atlantis is rocked!
Ishii throws a right and a left that both miss.
Ouch! a nice leg kick from Ishii, right into the meat.
Atlantis checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
As Ishii backs off Atlantis throws a huge counter combo but Ishii manages to avoid it all.
Ishii looks to land a combination but Atlantis avoids it well.
Atlantis looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
The fight stays on the outside here - Atlantis looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Atlantis just misses with a punch to the body.
Ishii lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Atlantis at a distance.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kazunori Ishii dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.

Atlantis scores with the left hand. Ishii knows he should have avoided that one.
Ishii throws a right and a left that Atlantis avoids nicely.
Ishii misses with a wild combination.
Ishii throws a right hand that misses
and Atlantis counters with a three punch combo that has Ishii backing up. Ishii nods at Atlantis to acknowledge the strikes.

The fighters are starting to get sweaty, which will make takedowns a bit more tricky.
Atlantis closes the distance and clinches.

Atlantis gets a trip takedown into half guard.
Atlantis thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Ishii's 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!
Atlantis missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Atlantis seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
Atlantis trying to control from half guard but Ishii is working away.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ishii is trying to control but can't.

Atlantis is looking for a kimura but Ishii is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Atlantis to get the leverage.
Atlantis wants to take a breather but Ishii is having none of it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Atlantis is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Atlantis trying to advance position but Ishii counters by regaining guard.
Atlantis looking to pass the guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Atlantis throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Atlantis wants to control from the top but Ishii keeps moving.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Ishii throws a right and a left that Atlantis avoids nicely.
Atlantis walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Atlantis shoots in but no luck this time.
Atlantis misses with a double jab.
Atlantis tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Ishii swivels and escapes.
Atlantis tries to land a front kick but Ishii steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.

Atlantis closes the distance and pushes Ishii back into the cage.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Atlantis fails to pull guard.
Kazunori Ishii has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Delphino Atlantis.
Atlantis jumps guard but Ishii turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.

Ishii's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Ishii cracks Atlantis with a right hand to the side of the head.
Ishii throws a combination that misses
and Atlantis counters with a right hand to the body.
Atlantis tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.

Atlantis closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Atlantis lands in his opponent's guard.
Atlantis missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Atlantis wants to pass the guard but Ishii is keeping the position.
Atlantis throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Ishii keeping full guard, as Atlantis tries to pass.
Atlantis missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Atlantis throws a big elbow that misses.
Ishii wants to improve his position but instead Atlantis has moved into half guard.
Ishii wants to get back to his feet.
Ishii keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Atlantis wants to take a breather but Ishii is having none of it.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Delphino Atlantis showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! And we move into the final round!

The fight moves into the clinch position.
Ishii is pressed up against the cage. Atlantis has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Ishii down to the mat. Ishii avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Ishii will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Atlantis! But no joy.
Atlantis fails with a takedown attempt.
Ishii tries to bum rush Atlantis with a series of wild strikes but Atlantis uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Atlantis is looking for the big counter here.
Ishii misses with a combination

and Atlantis counters with a nice double leg into guard.

Ishii uses the cage to get back to his feet.
Ishii dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Atlantis. That did some damage!

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ishii misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Ishii uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Atlantis shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Ishii as he jumps to the side.
As Atlantis backs away, Ishii returns fire with a leg kick that just misses.
Kazunori Ishii has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Delphino Atlantis.
Atlantis takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Atlantis throws a right and a left that Ishii avoids nicely.
A big left from Atlantis misses.
Ishii swings for the body but Atlantis moves out of range.
Ishii misses with a series of wild punches.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Ishii misses with the combination.
Ishii jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Ishii throws a leg kick that is checked

and Atlantis counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Atlantis.
Ishii is looking to stand back up... there's a bit of a scramble and Atlantis dives into side control.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!

The strikes coming from Atlantis are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
Ishii is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Atlantis has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Atlantis tries to advance to mount but Ishii denies him.
Atlantis has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Ishii is looking for a sweep.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Ishii can't do much from the bottom here.

Atlantis wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Ishii, who protects the arm well.
Atlantis tries to score with some ground and pound. Ishii controls his posture well this time though and the shots don't do any damage.
Atlantis working the ground and pound.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Atlantis wants to control but Ishii is keeping him busy.

Ishii bucks up and manages to escape back to his feet!
Ishii misses the jab.
Ishii finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Atlantis wants to clinch up but Ishii keeps it at a distance.
Ishii will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Kazunori Ishii is winning the standup battle so far.

Atlantis fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Ishii, pushing him back against the cage.

And that's the end of the fight!
Kazunori Ishii showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Ishii 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 Topper Green scores the fight 29:28
Judge Winston Howard scores the fight 29:28
Judge Bruno Hogan scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Kazunori Ishii!
A very excited looking Kazunori Ishii made sure he remembered to thank all the fans both in the arena and on the internet. He said all the coolest people spend all day on MMA websites, which got a big reaction.
Delphino Atlantis spoke after the fight, saying 'He slippery dolphinned me me, I need to see a doctor and a therapist in no particular order.'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
43%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Van Pol (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Filippo Di Vaio (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Pol
vs
Di Vaio

175 cm
32
165 lbs
19 - 4 - 1

176 cm
36
171 lbs
22 - 11 - 1

Great wrestler
World class MT
Insanely flexible

Excellent grappler
World class boxer
Good gas tank

Conquer

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 19 - 4 - 1, fighting out of Sydney, Van Pol!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 22 - 11 - 1, fighting out of Sydney, Filippo Di Vaio!
The judges for this bout are Darius Henderson, Ron Honeybunn and Topper Green.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Pol throws a head kick but Di Vaio moves out of range.
Di Vaio throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Pol throws a hook to the side of Di Vaio's head but Di Vaio sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Di Vaio throws a head kick but Pol moves out of range.
A jab from Pol misses.

Di Vaio decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.

Pol manages to create a bit of space in order to work his way back to his feet. Di Vaio keeps hold of his opponent and drives him back against the cage.
Pol has Di Vaio pressed against the cage, preventing Di Vaio from circling away and getting back to striking at range.
Pol misses with the head strike.
Di Vaio takes a shot to the head.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Di Vaio pushes Pol back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
Pol lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Di Vaio.
Pol lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Di Vaio has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Pol avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Di Vaio gets an overhook and lands an elbow to the side of the head.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Pol.
Pol pushes Di Vaio back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Pol lands a body punch in the clinch.
The pace really dropping off here, momentarily.
Di Vaio wants a takedown.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Di Vaio has been working on his takedowns a lot in the buildup to the fight and we can only assume he's going to look to take this to the mat.
The two fighters are working to gain dominance in the clinch.
Good body shot from Pol.
Di Vaio looks winded!
Di Vaio lands with a right to the head.
Di Vaio misses with an elbow over the top.
Di Vaio blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Pol is leaning against Di Vaio and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Pol gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Di Vaio.
Van Pol has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Filippo Di Vaio.
Pol misses with a short punch on the inside.
Di Vaio tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A nice left hand lands by Di Vaio.
Pol tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Di Vaio tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Pol smiles and moves away.
Pol cracks Di Vaio with a right hand to the side of the head.

Pol has managed to clinch.
Pol prevents a body shot from Di Vaio.
Pol has Di Vaio pressed against the cage, preventing Di Vaio from circling away and getting back to striking at range.
Pol misses with some punches.
Di Vaio creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses.
Pol working aggressively here.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Di Vaio tries a body shot but Pol blocks it.
Pol swings wildly with an uppercut but Di Vaio uses good head movement to avoid it.
Pol lands a body punch in the clinch.
Pol lands a nice uppercut.
Di Vaio misses with a hook from the clinch.
Di Vaio misses with a hook from the clinch.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Pol lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Di Vaio tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
The referee calls for Pol to work.
Pol content to slow the pace in the clinch.
Di Vaio comes over the top with an elbow. That landed flush.
Pol throws a punch but it's blocked by Di Vaio.

Di Vaio works for the underhooks and manages to get a trip takedown into guard.
Di Vaio trying to control but Pol is working from the bottom.
Di Vaio looking to sit in guard and control but Pol gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.

Pol stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Di Vaio swivels though and keeps the full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Di Vaio wants to sweep here but Pol controlling him for the moment.
Di Vaio is trying to keep Pol in close.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Di Vaio is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
Pol would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard.

Pol stands up and waves to Di Vaio to follow him.
Pol throws a looping overhand right but Di Vaio ducks down to avoid it.
A clash of legs there as Di Vaio blocks the low kick.
Di Vaio throws a head kick that misses
and Pol counters with a body kick.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Pol uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Di Vaio has time to react.
Di Vaio shoots in for a double leg but Pol sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Pol tries to clinch up but Di Vaio circles away and keeps his distance.
Di Vaio rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Pol counters with a big right hand! Oh Di Vaio is in trouble here! Pol follows up with more strikes and that's it! The ref has stopped it!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Van Pol!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
49%

Main event

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Damian Nitschke (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Adam Yauch (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Yauch has chosen Fight For Your Right To Party as his entrance music. Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Nitschke
vs
Yauch

181 cm
39
184 lbs
35 - 25 - 1

184 cm
33
179 lbs
28 - 15 - 0

Abu Dhabi Champ
Lethal high kicks
Insanely flexible

Good wrestler
Excellent MT
Granite chin

Sun-Tzu

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the welterweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 35 - 25 - 1, fighting out of Sydney, Damian Nitschke!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 28 - 15 - 0, fighting out of London, Adam Yauch!
The judges for this bout are Damien Edna, John Mangel and Skip Squint.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Nitschke throws a lazy head kick
and Yauch counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Yauch lands a nice hook to Nitschke's body. Nitschke takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Nitschke scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
A big right from Nitschke misses.
Yauch takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Nitschke feints and then cracks Yauch's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Yauch down.
Yauch with a hook.

It looks like Damian Nitschke has been cut.
Nitschke lands an overhand right.
Yauch scores with a hook to the body. Nitschke takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Nitschke misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Yauch.
Yauch tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Nitschke dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
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!
Yauch avoids a lazy jab quite easily.

Nitschke closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Nitschke lands in his opponent's guard.
Nitschke scoring with some ground and pound.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Yauch has control of Nitschke's left arm, preventing Nitschke from doing any damage.
Nitschke wants to control from the top but Yauch keeps moving.
Yauch keeping full guard, as Nitschke tries to pass.
Nitschke throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Yauch works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Yauch has his hands on Nitschke's head, controlling the position.
We've been hearing good reports from Nitschke'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.
Yauch keeping moving, preventing Nitschke from controlling successfully.
Nitschke keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Yauch's head.
Yauch 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.
Yauch keeping moving, preventing Nitschke from controlling successfully.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
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.
Nitschke in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Yauch trying to control the position.
Nitschke throwing strikes but missing.
Nitschke postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Nitschke wants to control from the top but Yauch keeps moving.
Nitschke stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Yauch swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Nitschke trying to control the position from guard on top but Yauch is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Nitschke has been looking to land a fair amount of strikes on the ground. He might be looking to soften his opponent up in order to work for a submission.
Nitschke throws a strike but Yauch rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Nitschke is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Yauch is aware though and is defending well.
Yauch advances position into side control!
Nitschke is looking to reverse the position.
Yauch is staying tight to Nitschke's torso, preventing him from escaping.
Nitschke gets back to half guard.
Nitschke wants to get back to full guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Neither fighter is being very active at the moment, with Yauch in particular looking to stall.
Nitschke is trying to control but can't.
Nitschke is pressing down on Yauch's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Nitschke is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Yauch is aware though and is defending well.

Nitschke working for a triangle but Yauch defends it easily.
Yauch trying to control the position from guard on top but Nitschke is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Yauch controls from within his opponent's guard.
Yauch slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Nitschke manages to get back to half guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Damian Nitschke dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Damian Nitschke's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!

Yauch uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Nitschke.
Nitschke tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Yauch throws the left hand but Nitschke avoids the punch easily.
Nitschke lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Nitschke fakes the leg kick and cracks Yauch in the body.
Yauch misses the shot to the body.
Nitschke comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Yauch misses with an uppercut. Nitschke saw that one coming.
Nitschke appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Nitschke is looking to clinch.
Nitschke is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Yauch can do to turn this around?
Yauch scores with a kick to the midsection.
Yauch uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nitschke.
Yauch fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Yauch bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Nitschke walks into a straight right hand from Yauch.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nitschke tries to close the distance and clinch but Yauch swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Yauch lands a jab-cross combination.
Adam Yauch seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Nitschke blocks a head kick by Yauch.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nitschke tries to land a body kick
and Yauch counters with a nice uppercut.
Damian Nitschke seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A lazy left from Yauch finds it's target.
Nitschke lands a head shot.
Nitschke jabs at Yauch's body.
Yauch throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Yauch throws a lazy right hand but Nitschke sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Nitschke goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
Nitschke on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Yauch. Yauch obviously looking to wear him down.
Nitschke throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.
Yauch scores with a hook to the body. Nitschke takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nitschke scores with a crisp jab that stopped Yauch in his tracks.
Nitschke scores with a body shot.
Yauch is breathing heavily.
Nitschke clobbers Yauch with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Yauch throws a leg kick but Nitschke checks it.
Yauch gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Nitschke swings and misses with a hook to the body.
A nice side step and Yauch releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Yauch lands a really nice looking cross but Nitschke seems unphased.
A jab from Nitschke misses.
Nitschke misses with a body punch
enabling Yauch to counter with a crisp jab.
Yauch cracks Nitschke with an open hand slap.
Nitschke fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Yauch manages to avoid it.
Nitschke thuds a left hand into Yauch's body.

Yauch gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.

Yauch manages to escape and get back to his feet.
Yauch takes a kick to the side of the head.
Nitschke throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nitschke sizes up Yauch with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Yauch works the jab nicely.
The fight stays on the outside here - Nitschke looks like he's thinking about clinching though.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Nitschke doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Yauch counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
A jab from Yauch misses.
Nice sprawl there from Yauch as Nitschke shoots in.
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Yauch!
Nitschke moves out of range of the body kick.
Nitschke attempts a counter takedown but Yauch avoids it well and moves away.
Nitschke throws a nice inside leg kick.
Nitschke avoids the body shot from Yauch.

Nitschke has managed to clinch.
Nitschke lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Yauch backwards.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Nitschke.

Yauch's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Nitschke tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Yauch was well out of range. Poor timing from Nitschke.
Yauch bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Yauch swats away the attempt to clinch by Nitschke.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Yauch pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Yauch throws out a loose jab but Nitschke uses good head movement to avoid it.
Nitschke's jab looks to have found its range, popping Yauch under the eye.
Nitschke scores with a jab. Yauch acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Yauch lands a nice leg kick that just misses Nitschke's sensitive parts.
Ouch! a nice leg kick from Yauch, right into the meat.
Yauch throws the left hand but Nitschke avoids the punch easily.
A head kick misses from Nitschke.
Nitschke bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
A chopping leg kick lands by Nitschke.
Nitschke throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Nitschke tries to close the distance and clinch up but Yauch swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Yauch throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Yauch fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Nitschke manages to avoid it.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Adam Yauch will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Damian Nitschke's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!

Nitschke wants to clinch.
Yauch checks a leg kick nicely.
Nitschke lands a front kick.
Nitschke moves out of range of the strikes.
Nitschke throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Yauch throws a low kick but Nitschke avoids it.
Nitschke misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Yauch.

Nitschke closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Nitschke is chipping away with strikes.
Yauch takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Yauch is looking for a sweep.
Yauch defending against the ground and pound.
Nitschke creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Yauch sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Nitschke sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Yauch is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nitschke in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Sloppy strikes there by Nitschke.
The referee asks Nitschke politely if he wouldn't mind getting on with it and actually doing something. Nitschke prefers to stall for the moment though.
Yauch is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Nitschke throws an elbow but Yauch slips to the side and avoids it well.
Yauch manages to get back to half guard.
Nitschke winds up and cracks Yauch with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Nitschke is nestled in close to Yauch, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Nitschke throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Nice strikes from Nitschke there.
Yauch desperately trying to maintain half guard.
Yauch is trying to maintain the position but Nitschke is very close to passing his half guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Nitschke working the head and body with strikes.
Nice strikes from Nitschke there.
Nitschke lands with a punch from half guard.
Nitschke 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.
Nitschke not doing much here.
Yauch is looking for a sweep. Nitschke is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Yauch is controlling Nitschke's position as best he can from this difficult position.
Nitschke sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Yauch defending well though.
Nitschke throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Nitschke thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Damian Nitschke overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Nitschke not doing much here.
Yauch pushes Nitschke off looking to stand but Nitschke dives back in and keeps control.
Nitschke scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Nitschke slips a nice elbow through Yauch's hands, connecting with Yauch's forehead.
Yauch on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Nitschke working over Yauch with some ground and pound. Yauch looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Yauch avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Nitschke.
Nitschke not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Yauch is looking for a sweep. Nitschke is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Nitschke is thwarting Yauch's attempts to control the position.
Nitschke throwing shots but Yauch is blocking nicely.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Nitschke trying to control from half guard but Yauch is working away.
Nitschke misses with a head shot. Yauch uses the momentum to regain guard.
Nitschke postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Yauch is trying to control the position but Nitschke postures up.
Nitschke wants to control from the top but Yauch keeps moving.
Yauch preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nitschke working some strikes from top position.
Nitschke throws an elbow that misses. Yauch uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Nitschke's guard. Nice move by Yauch!

Yauch trying to control but Nitschke is working from the bottom.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Damian Nitschke clearly takes that round.
The cut man is working on Damian Nitschke's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!

Yauch blocks a head kick by Nitschke.
A jab from Yauch does it's job there.
Nitschke ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Yauch moves away.
Nitschke thows a leg kick but Yauch checks it
and Yauch counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Nitschke is looking to wear down Yauch with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Nitschke lands with a kick to the ribs.
A head kick misses from Nitschke.
Yauch throws a leg kick which misses Nitschke's front leg but catches the back leg as Nitschke tries to avoid it.
Nitschke misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Yauch lunges at Nitschke with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Nitschke's hand.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nitschke looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Nitschke lands the left hand.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Yauch works Nitschke's body with a nice hook.
Yauch throws a body shot but no joy.
Yauch lands with a right hand.
Nitschke lands a nice looking body shot.
Yauch uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Nitschke.
Nitschke lands a jab to Yauch's midsection.
Nitschke misses with an uppercut.
Nitschke tries to score a power double leg takedown but Yauch sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Nitschke somewhat.
Yauch is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Nitschke with a body shot.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Damian Nitschke. That's going to take a lot out of him.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Nitschke throws a head kick but Yauch moves out of range.
A jab lands there for Nitschke.
Yauch jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Sloppy strikes from Yauch. Those never looked like landing.
Yauch throws an overhand right that lands on Nitschke's shoulder, as Nitschke tries to avoid the shot.
Nitschke changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Nitschke changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Yauch looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Yauch tries to bench press Nitschke off him but Nitschke keeps the position.
Nitschke working the ground and pound but Yauch is defending the strikes.
Nitschke creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Yauch sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Yauch is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Nitschke is trying to ground and pound but Yauch uses the momentary lack of control by Nitschke to regain half guard.
Yauch avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Nitschke.
Nitschke missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Nitschke working the head and body with strikes.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Yauch wants to get back to full guard.
Yauch has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Nitschke is working away from the top position though.
Yauch moves into full guard.
Nitschke throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Yauch works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Yauch preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Nitschke trying to control the position from guard on top but Yauch is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Nitschke accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Yauch looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Nitschke accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Nitschke landing some decent shots from guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Nitschke lands a couple of elbows.
Nitschke lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Nitschke scoring with punches to the head and body.
Nitschke throws a big elbow that misses.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Nitschke's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Nitschke working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Nitschke with a flurry of punches that miss.
Nitschke trying to control but Yauch is working from the bottom.
Nitschke with a flurry of punches that miss.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close fourth round but I would say that Damian Nitschke will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Damian Nitschke's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! This is the final round!

Yauch throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Nitschke sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Nitschke swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Nitschke misses with a head kick.
Nitschke misses with a hook.
Yauch misses with a jab, cross combination.
Yauch takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?

Nitschke gets a double leg takedown into Yauch's guard.

Yauch has managed to wall walk up one of the corner posts to get back to his feet. Nitschke is pushing him up against the cage, looking to control the position.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Yauch lands a nice elbow from the clinch.
Nitschke tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Yauch's elbow.
Nitschke lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Yauch is wobbling all over the place through exhaustion. Will he make it to the final bell?
Nitschke stalling the fight.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Nitschke as Yauch tries to tie him up.
Nitschke misses with a punch to the body.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nitschke trying to stall but Yauch improves his position.
Yauch lands a body shot.
Nitschke wants to stall.
Nitschke lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Nitschke swings wildly with an uppercut but Yauch uses good head movement to avoid it.
Yauch is looking to break free of the clinch but Nitschke has double underhooks.
Yauch blocks an uppercut.
Nitschke misses with a short punch on the inside.

Nitschke has moved round to his opponent's back and is looking for a suplex! Oh snap! He's tossed Yauch clear over his head and slammed him to the mat!
Yauch turns into Nitschke and is now in his guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Yauch seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up.

Nitschke working away from the bottom but not quite defensive enough there because Yauch has passed into half guard!
Yauch tries to pass to full mount but Nitschke defends it.
Yauch wants to control but Nitschke is keeping him busy.
My spies in Canadian Top Team inform me that Yauch has been getting involved in the gym's BJJ sparring sessions. Let's see whether that pays dividends!

Nitschke is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Yauch pulls his head out easily.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Yauch slows the pace down in half guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Nitschke trying to hold on to Yauch's head to control him but Yauch postures up.
Nitschke regains full guard. Nicely done.
Yauch tries to free his leg and advance position but Nitschke is retaining full guard.
Yauch preventing the sweep.
Nitschke is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Adam Yauch has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Nitschke has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Yauch has passed into side control.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Nitschke is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Yauch's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Nitschke tries to get to full guard but Yauch has control of the leg.

Nitschke looking for submissions off his back.
Yauch looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Nitschke is looking for a sweep. Yauch is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Yauch not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Adam Yauch.
I think Nitschke 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 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Damien Edna scores the fight 48:47
Judge John Mangel scores the fight 48:47
Judge Skip Squint scores the fight 48:47

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Damian Nitschke!
Damian Nitschke retains his welterweight title!
As Damian Nitschke got his breath back, he grabbed the microphone and managed to blurt out the following: Thanks to everyone that supported me when I was going through rough times. I'm back, baby!'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
56%

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