CEFC Fight Night 64 PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Gary Lawler (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Kevin Rush (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The crowd giving both fighters a great reception on their way into the arena. That's good to see.

Lawler
vs
Rush

190 cm
25
260 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

194 cm
25
240 lbs
1 - 3 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid boxing
Intelligent

BJJ White Belt
Brawler
Determined

King of Fists

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Montreal, Gary Lawler!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Montreal, Kevin Rush!
The judges for this bout are Yves DeLean, Robert Douchet and William Peck.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Lawler looks to land a combination but Rush avoids it well.
Lawler looks exhausted already! Oh dear, he should have come in in better shape than this!

Rush feints and then winds up with a huge right hand that connects perfectly and sends Lawler sprawling to the canvas! Lawler rolls over backwards and springs off the cage and manages to regain his footing - how acrobatic! Oh, he's still wobbly - can Rush finish him?!
Rush thows a body kick. Lawler tries to catch it but that hurt him.

Rush shoots in and bounces Lawler off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Rush controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Rush stands up over Lawler, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Rush slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.
Lawler keeping moving, preventing Rush from controlling successfully.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Lawler is trying to keep Rush in close.
Lawler keeping moving, preventing Rush from controlling successfully.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
Rush is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Kevin Rush seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Rush tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Lawler seems to be moving with more speed, compared to his last bout. He must have been working on that in the gym.
Rush throws a body kick that digs right into the meat.
Rush waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Lawler.
Rush comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Nice body kick from Rush.
Rush shoots in looking for a takedown. Lawler tries to sprawl out of it but Rush keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Lawler manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Rush moves into the clinch.
Rush swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Rush misses with a punch to the body.
Rush tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.

Rush has dropped down and is working for a takedown. Lawler is trying to keep an underhook but Rush manages to get the takedown into half guard.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Rush is trying to control. Lawler wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Lawler tries to roll over but Rush keeps him under control.
Rush performing his best blanket impression for a moment.
Rush 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.
Rush really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Lawler. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Rush throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Lawler tries to get to full guard but Rush has control of the leg.
Lawler is refusing to be controlled, as Rush sits in half guard.
Rush slows the pace down in half guard.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Rush tries to stand but can't do so whilst Lawler controls his leg.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Rush lands a nice looking kick to the body. Lawler takes a step back to recover.

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.
Rush moves into range and throws a combination. A nice jab followed by a hook to the body.
Lawler avoids the body shot from Rush.
Rush lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.

Lawler is rocked!
Rush looks to land a combination but Lawler avoids it well.
Oh Lawler is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!

Rush forces Lawler back against the cage and clinches.
Lawler seems to have got his legs back now.
Rush unloads a knee to the mid-section. Lawler lets out a prehistoric sounding urrrrgh.
Rush goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Rush misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Rush trying to land knees to the body.
Rush swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Rush lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Lawler backwards.
A short right from Rush on the inside.
Rush misses with the head strike.
Rush lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Lawler backwards.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Rush shoots in looking for a takedown. Lawler tries to sprawl out of it but Rush keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Lawler manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
A telegraphed right hand from Rush misses the target.
A punch combination from Rush misses.

Lawler gets tackled into the cage by Rush. Rush maintains the clinch.
Lawler working hard to break the clinch.

Rush gets double underhooks and manages to take the fight to the ground.
Rush landing with the ground and pound.
Lawler keeping moving, preventing Rush from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Rush with a flurry of punches that miss.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Lawler keeping moving, preventing Rush from controlling successfully.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Rush's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Rush wants to get up but he can't break Lawler's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Rush landing with the ground and pound.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.
Rush won't allow Lawler to sweep him here.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.

Lawler gets tackled into the cage by Rush. Rush maintains the clinch.
Lawler tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Rush just stands there and leans against the cage.
Rush connects with a nasty looking knee right to Lawler's face.
Rush lands a left hand.
Lawler is trying to maintain a safe position but Rush gets an underhook and turns Lawler into the cage.
Rush lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Rush softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Rush lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Lawler backwards.
Rush tries to throw a body punch but Lawler avoids it by throwing Rush back against the cage.
Rush has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Rush tries a body shot but Lawler blocks it.
Rush lands a body punch in the clinch.
A body shot lands from Rush.
Rush tries to land a knee to the head but Lawler blocks with his arms.
Rush landing knees to the body. They look like they could hurt.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Rush lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
A shot in the inside from Rush.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Rush.
Rush lands an elbow just above Lawler 's eye.
Rush lands an elbow that stopped Lawler in his tracks for a moment.
Rush lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Lawler backwards.
Rush lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Lawler is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Rush is defending well.
Rush lands a shoulder strike.
Rush is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Lawler gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Rush lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Lawler backwards.
Rush drops down looking for an ankle pick but Lawler pulls his leg out and moves away.
Gary Lawler has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Kevin Rush.
Lawler takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?
Rush avoids the head kick by Lawler.
Lawler on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Lawler shoots in and drives through. Rush sprawls well.

Rush scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Lawler wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!
Lawler being controlled for a moment.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Lawler tries to strike but it doesn't land.
Lawler takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Lawler looks to move to half guard but instead Rush has passed into mount! Damn!
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!
The referee warns Lawler that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kevin Rush showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action. Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!

Rush throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Lawler's waist but Lawler gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Rush off to one side.

Rush shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Lawler napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Rush working the ground and pound.
Lawler is trying to escape the position but Rush is controlling the position.
Lawler tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Rush wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Kevin Rush has got the better of the ground game so far.
Rush remains in side control and seems content to stay there. It's a versatile position from which he can work both strikes and submissions, whilst maintaining that control, so maybe he'll sit here for a while.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
You can see the frustration on Lawler's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Lawler is not content to let Rush control the position.
Rush tries to move to mount but Lawler blocks the move with his legs.
Rush lands an elbow.
Rush is looking to take a break and control but Lawler is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Rush cracks Lawler with a big elbow.

That's two 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.
Rush in side control lands a decent elbow.
Rush working the head and body with strikes.
Lawler is trying to improve his position.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Rush lands a decent elbow from side control.
Rush scoring with punches and elbows.

Rush decides to stand back up. Rush steps back and let's Lawler get back to his feet.

Rush has closed the distance and engaged Lawler in a clinch.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Lawler.
Kevin Rush is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Rush lands a right hand that snaps the head of Lawler backwards.
Lawler blocking some punches.
A head punch on the inside from Rush fails to land.
Rush tries for a takedown but Lawler manages to get underhooks.
Rush scores with a nice hook to the head.
Lawler can't get the takedown.
Rush gets an overhook and lands an elbow to the side of the head.
Rush with the Thai clinch. He's looking to land a big knee but he's not managed it this time.
Rush lands a right hand that snaps the head of Lawler backwards.
Rush looking for a takedown.
Gary Lawler has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Kevin Rush.
Rush throws a head punch that misses.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Rush lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.

Rush has clasped his hands together around Lawler's back... aaand, he's got a takedown into side control. Nicely done.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Lawler is looking to reverse the position.
Lawler is trying to escape the position but Rush is controlling the position.

Rush stands up.

Rush closes the distance and clinches.
Rush throws a punch but it's blocked by Lawler.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.

Rush is working on a single leg takedown against the cage. Lawler can't fight it off and eventually Rush manages to take the fight to the floor. Lawler looks annoyed but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Gary Lawler has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Lawler keeping full guard, as Rush tries to pass.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Yves DeLean scores the fight 27:30
Judge Robert Douchet scores the fight 27:30
Judge William Peck scores the fight 26:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Kevin Rush!
Kevin Rush decided to hype himself up post fight. It was going well but he went on about it a bit too long and the crowd turned on him a little.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
47%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Jojo Banzai (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jan Bodahl (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Banzai
vs
Bodahl

183 cm
22
197 lbs
1 - 3 - 0

184 cm
25
200 lbs
6 - 8 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid Muay Thai
Likes comics

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Determined

King of Fists

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Montreal, Jojo Banzai!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 6 - 8 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Jan Bodahl!
The judges for this bout are Yves DeLean, Gregory Folan and William Peck.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
A jab from Banzai finds it's way through Bodahl's defenses.
Banzai tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Bodahl swivels and escapes.
Nice takedown defense from Banzai. No joy for Bodahl on that attempt.
Banzai fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.

Bodahl fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Banzai sprawls well initially but Bodahl persists and gets the takedown into half guard.

Bodahl is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.

Bodahl is trying to work for a kimura but Banzai is defending well.

Bodahl is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Banzai sees it coming and defends easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banzai trying to hold on to Bodahl's head to control him but Bodahl postures up.
Bodahl wants to free his trapped foot but Banzai is holding on for dear life with his legs.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Bodahl is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Banzai doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Bodahl.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Bodahl looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique.

Bodahl is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Banzai trying to control from the bottom.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Banzai keeping control of the position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

Bodahl wants to work for an arm triangle but Banzai is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Banzai trying to control but Bodahl postures up.

Banzai is defending against the submission attempts here by Bodahl.

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

The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Bodahl is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Banzai looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.

Bodahl is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Banzai doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Bodahl.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Banzai is controlling Bodahl's position as best he can from this difficult position.

Banzai is defending against the submission attempts here by Bodahl.
Banzai is looking to control Bodahl's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Banzai avoid being mounted?

Bodahl is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.

That's four 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.
Banzai holds on for dear life, maintaining half guard for now.

Bodahl is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Banzai is just riding it out for now. Bodahl eventually gives up the hold.

Bodahl is looking for a kimura here.
Bodahl is pressing down on Banzai's thigh, looking to free his foot. Banzai is holding on for now.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!

Bodahl is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Bodahl fails with the takedown
and Banzai counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Nice takedown defense from Banzai. No joy for Bodahl on that attempt.
Bodahl changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Banzai tries to avoid it but Bodahl manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Banzai to the ground. Banzai escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Jojo Banzai has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Jan Bodahl.
Bodahl shoots in for a takedown but Banzai shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Banzai lands a jab to the nose.

Bodahl tries to keep at a distance but Banzai has taken the fight into the clinch.
Banzai swings wildly with an uppercut but Bodahl uses good head movement to avoid it.
Banzai is defending well against a takedown attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banzai lands with a left to the head.
Banzai just leaning against Bodahl, taking a breather.
Banzai taking a breather.
Banzai gets a warning from the ref for wasting time.
Bodahl is trying to drag Banzai to the mat but Banzai just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Bodahl tries to score a body lock takedown but Banzai shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Banzai working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Banzai lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Bodahl is looking to take this one to the mat.

Banzai ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Banzai no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard.
Banzai is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.

Bodahl is holding a leg here, probably looking for an ankle lock - he drops back and goes for it! Banzai is in trouble! Is it all over??? No! Banzai has escaped and now he's on top!

Bodahl keeping moving, preventing Banzai from controlling successfully.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Bodahl looking for a guillotine here but Banzai defends easily.

Bodahl is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Banzai is aware though and is defending well.
Banzai trying to control but Bodahl is working from the bottom.

Bodahl working for submissions but it's allowed Banzai to get to half guard.
Bodahl wants to improve his position but Banzai is controlling well.

Bodahl looking for submissions off his back.
Banzai throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Bodahl is defending against the submission attempts here by Banzai.
Banzai trying to control the pace.
Banzai trying to control from half guard but Bodahl is working away.

Bodahl looking for subs from the bottom but Banzai mounts him!
Bodahl working to try and regain half guard.
Banzai thowing strikes but they're hitting the gloves, not doing any damage.
Bodahl is looking to improve his position but Banzai isn't that keen on the idea.
Bodahl is squirming around, avoiding Banzai's attempts to control the action.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Banzai misses with a series of strikes from mount. He'll no doubt be working on his ground and pound when he gets back to the gym.
Bodahl sneaks a leg under to get to half guard.

Bodahl looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.

Bodahl looking for submissions off his back.

Bodahl looking for submissions off his back.
Bodahl is trying to get back to full guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.

Bodahl looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jojo Banzai dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!

Bodahl stuffs the takedown.
And Bodahl tries to counter it with a takedown but Banzai pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Bodahl shoots in but Banzai avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Bodahl throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Banzai's waist but Banzai gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Bodahl off to one side.
Banzai moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Bodahl takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.

Banzai moves into the clinch.
Bodahl goes for a takedown in the clinch but Banzai prevents it.
Jojo Banzai has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Jan Bodahl.
Banzai lands with a short punch from the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Banzai breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Bodahl shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Bodahl looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Bodahl takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Bodahl misses with a takedown attempt
and Banzai counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Banzai sizes up Bodahl with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.

Banzai drops Bodahl with a beautiful combination! Bodahl stares up at his opponent, who ushers him back to his feet - Banzai is looking for the KO!

Bodahl is rocked!
Banzai ducks down and throws a big overhand right - it lands flush on the jaw, knocking Bodahl out cold! The fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:22 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Jojo Banzai!
Jojo Banzai looked relieved post fight as he said the following; 'THX for CEFC'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
38%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Jan Olov Hermansson (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Antonio Vegata (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Olov Hermansson
vs
Vegata

178 cm
39
168 lbs
30 - 29 - 1

175 cm
43
165 lbs
27 - 31 - 2

Abu Dhabi Champ
Excellent boxer
Cardio machine

Good wrestler
World class boxer
Powerful

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 30 - 29 - 1, fighting out of Montreal, Jan Olov Hermansson!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 27 - 31 - 2, fighting out of Montreal, Antonio Vegata!
The judges for this bout are Trevor Gratis, Robert Douchet and Dillan Fox.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Hermansson closes the distance and clinches.
Hermansson is looking for a takedown.
Vegata misses with a knee strike.
Vegata tries a knee to the head but Hermansson blocks it.

Hermansson has dropped down and is working for a takedown. Vegata is trying to keep an underhook but Hermansson manages to get the takedown into half guard.
Hermansson is trying to get back to his feet now but his leg is trapped.
Hermansson prevents Vegata from improving his position.
Vegata controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

That's one minute gone in the round.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Vegata trying to control but Hermansson postures up.
The referee is asking the fighters to pick up the pace.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Hermansson tries to stand but can't do so whilst Vegata controls his leg.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.

Hermansson has taken the fight to the clinch.

That's two 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.
Hermansson is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Vegata gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Vegata tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Hermansson avoids it.
Vegata misses with a knee strike.
Vegata throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but Hermansson blocks it with crossed arms.
Hermansson managing to block the knees to the body from Vegata.
Hermansson blocks a knee to the body. He'll have a nicely bruised forearm in the morning.
Vegata wants to stall.
Vegata tries to land a knee to the head but misses.
Vegata trying to land knees to the body.
Vegata tries to land knees in the clinch but Hermansson avoids the damage to the body.
Vegata with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Vegata with the Thai clinch. He's looking to land a big knee but he's not managed it this time.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Vegata misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Hermansson.
Vegata using the Thai plumb to throw knees but Hermansson has his back arched nicely, preventing the strike.
Vegata is pushing Hermansson up against the cage, for a bit of lean and pray action. Action being used the in the loosest possible sense of the word.

Hermansson wants the takedown. Vegata is fighting it off but Hermansson persists and manages to bring the fight to the ground, ending up in Vegata's guard against the cage.
We could do with one of the fighters taking the initiative a bit more on the ground - they're both waiting to capitalize on a mistake.
Hermansson wants to get up but he can't break Vegata's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.
Vegata is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Hermansson tries to stand but Vegata is controlling from the bottom.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Vegata manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Hermansson manages to get himself to full guard.

Vegata prevents Hermansson from getting back to his feet.
Vegata stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Hermansson swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Vegata prevents Hermansson from getting back to his feet.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Antonio Vegata dominated that round.
That's time! Hermansson's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.

Hermansson gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Hermansson managing to block the knees to the body from Vegata.
Vegata leaning against his opponent.
Hermansson on the defensive, avoiding the knees to the body.
Vegata is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Hermansson is defending well for now.
Vegata throws a knee to the head but misses.
Hermansson has not gone for a single takedown so far in this fight, which seems like a very strange tactic when you consider that he has the superior wrestling and BJJ.
Hermansson is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Vegata tries to land a knee to the head but misses.
Vegata gets underhooks to prevent Hermansson's takedown attempt.
Vegata with an attempt at a knee that misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Vegata tries to land a knee to the head but Hermansson blocks with his arms.
Vegata tries to stall but Hermansson uses the opportunity to gain a better position.

Hermansson is working on a single leg takedown against the cage. Vegata can't fight it off and eventually Hermansson manages to take the fight to the floor. Vegata looks annoyed but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Vegata looking for a sweep. Not yet Vegata, not yet.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Vegata has his hands on Hermansson's head, controlling the position.
Vegata looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Hermansson wanted to stand there but Vegata had control of the position.
Vegata wants to sweep here but Hermansson controlling him for the moment.

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.
Vegata has control of Hermansson's left arm, preventing Hermansson from doing any damage.
Hermansson postures up.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.

Hermansson closes the distance and pushes Vegata back into the cage.
Hermansson is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Jan Olov Hermansson. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Vegata displaying some good clinch control by pressing Hermansson up against the cage.
Vegata trying to control the position but instead, Hermansson has worked for underhooks and has pushed Vegata into the cage.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Vegata with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Vegata tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Hermansson avoids it.
Hermansson drops down looking for an ankle pick but Vegata pulls his leg out and moves away.
Hermansson on the wrong end of a nice low kick. He's acting like it's no big deal but he doesn't want to take many more of those.

Hermansson rushes Vegata and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Vegata misses with a knee strike.
Vegata throws a knee to the head but misses.
Vegata missing with knees to the body.
Vegata is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Hermansson avoiding damage as Vegata throws knees to the body.
Vegata tries a knee to the head but Hermansson blocks it.
Hermansson managing to block the knees to the body from Vegata.
Vegata misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Hermansson.
Vegata missing with knees to the body.
Vegata is breathing heavily.
Vegata tries to land knees in the clinch but Hermansson avoids the damage to the body.
Vegata tries to land knees in the clinch but Hermansson avoids the damage to the body.
Vegata is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Hermansson drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Vegata with an attempt at a knee that misses.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Antonio Vegata showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action. This is the final round!

Hermansson closes the distance and pushes Vegata back into the cage.
Vegata tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Hermansson avoids it.
Vegata tries a knee to the head but Hermansson blocks it.
Vegata looking to throw knees to the head but Hermansson is blocking nicely.
Vegata misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Hermansson.

Hermansson has Vegata pressed up against the cage. He's trying to work for a single leg takedown. Hermansson pulls back from the cage and twists to the side, sending Vegata tumbling to the mat - Hermansson dives into Vegata's guard.
Vegata looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hermansson wants to get up but he can't break Vegata's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Hermansson gets to his feet - Vegata follows without any prompting.

Hermansson clinches.
Vegata throws a knee to the head but misses.
Hermansson wants to take the fight to the mat but Vegata manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
Vegata throws a knee to the head but misses.
Vegata has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Vegata takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.

Hermansson gets a trip takedown into half guard.

Vegata kicks off Hermansson and gets to his feet.

Hermansson has taken the fight to the clinch.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Vegata looking to throw knees to the head but Hermansson is blocking nicely.
Vegata is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Hermansson is defending well for now.

Hermansson gets double underhooks and manages to take the fight to the ground.

Hermansson gets to his feet - Vegata follows without any prompting.
Jan Olov Hermansson has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!

That's two minutes gone in the round.

The fight moves into the clinch position.
Vegata is trying to maintain a safe position but Hermansson gets an underhook and turns Vegata into the cage.
Vegata tries a knee to the head but Hermansson blocks it.
A battle for position here, against the cage.
Vegata is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Vegata throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but Hermansson blocks it with crossed arms.
We've been informed that Vegata has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.
Vegata misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Hermansson.
Hermansson is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Vegata pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Vegata tries a knee to the head but Hermansson blocks it.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Vegata trying to land knees to the body.
Hermansson can't get the takedown.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Jan Olov Hermansson. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Hermansson has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Vegata avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Vegata taking a breather.
Vegata misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Hermansson.
Hermansson is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Vegata pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Antonio Vegata seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
Vegata tries to land knees in the clinch but Hermansson avoids the damage to the body.
Vegata is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Hermansson is defending well for now.
Vegata throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but Hermansson blocks it with crossed arms.

Hermansson gets double underhooks and manages to take the fight to the ground.
Vegata has a closed guard, preventing Hermansson from standing up.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Hermansson trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Vegata is looking to stand back up but Hermansson counters by passing into half guard. Oops... bit sloppy there by Vegata.
Hermansson lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Trevor Gratis scores the fight 28:29
Judge Robert Douchet scores the fight 27:30
Judge Dillan Fox scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Antonio Vegata!
Antonio Vegata took to the microphone after his victory and thanked his sponsors, Real Fighters Nutrition for their support in the buildup to the fight.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
31%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Johan Axelsson (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Gianpaolo Volpicelli (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Well, I have no idea who's going to take this one!

Axelsson
vs
Volpicelli

183 cm
35
194 lbs
27 - 15 - 0

187 cm
33
197 lbs
12 - 10 - 0

Abu Dhabi Champ
Excellent boxer
Cardio machine

Good wrestler
Excellent MT
Good gas tank

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 27 - 15 - 0, fighting out of Montreal, Johan Axelsson!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 12 - 10 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Gianpaolo Volpicelli!
The judges for this bout are Ian Loll, Elvis Blanc and Steve Smith.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Volpicelli swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Axelsson counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Volpicelli misses with a body shot.
Axelsson lands a jab to the nose.

Volpicelli drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Axelsson is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Axelsson keeping moving, preventing Volpicelli from controlling successfully.
Axelsson controls Volpicelli momentarily but Volpicelli frees himself.
Axelsson has his hands on Volpicelli's head, controlling the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Axelsson is trying to control the position from the bottom.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Volpicelli pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Axelsson is keeping the position for now.

Axelsson working for a triangle but Volpicelli defends it easily.
Volpicelli passes Axelsson's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
The fighters are battling for position here. Axelsson manages to regain full guard. Nice work.

Axelsson is working for submissions here. He's thrown up his legs looking for a triangle but Volpicelli frees his head nicely. Oh but Axelsson has switched to an armbar! Volpicelli is tapping furiously! Lovely submission there!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Armbar). Johan Axelsson!
During a confident post fight interview, Johan Axelsson 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
36%

Main event

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Better Dead (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Atlas Kivi (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Dead comes to the cage accompanied by Death March - Motionless in White. Kivi is bouncing up and down as he enters the arena, backed by Metallica - Ride the Lightning. Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Dead
vs
Kivi

183 cm
25
169 lbs
19 - 16 - 0

175 cm
40
160 lbs
32 - 25 - 2

Good wrestling
World class boxer
Cardio machine

Good wrestler
Excellent boxer
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, in the lightweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 19 - 16 - 0, fighting out of Montreal, Better Dead!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 32 - 25 - 2, fighting out of Montreal, Atlas Kivi!
The judges for this bout are Dillan Fox, Elvis Blanc and Ian Loll.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Dead ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Dead throws a right and a left that both miss.
Kivi is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Dead with a body shot.
Some wild striking there from Dead.
Dead swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Dead looks to land a right hand but Kivi moved out of range.
Dead lands a slapping body shot.
Kivi stuns Dead with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Dead displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Kivi throws out the jab.
A swing and a miss from Dead.
Kivi moves into range and connects with a jab.
A lazy left from Dead finds it's target.

It looks like Atlas Kivi has been cut.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!

Dead lands a big head kick that sends Kivi tumbling to the mat! Dead takes a step backwards and waves Kivi back to his feet - he wants the finish!
Kivi ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Dead misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Dead throws a hook to the side of Kivi's head but Kivi sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Dead listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Kivi checks a leg kick nicely.
Dead defending well as Kivi loads up on a big left hand.
Dead avoids a low kick by using good footwork.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Dead takes one on the button.
Dead throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Dead misses with a left hand
and Dead takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Dead connects with a nice looking jab.
Kivi tries to move into range but Dead moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.

That has opened up Atlas Kivi's cut even more.
Dead misses with a wild body shot.
Dead misses with an attempted mid kick.
Kivi fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Dead looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Dead throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Dead misses with a hook. Kivi ducked under it nicely.
Kivi keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Dead.
Dead throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Kivi.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Sloppy strikes from Dead. Those never looked like landing.
Dead throws a combination that misses

and Kivi counters with a takedown into side control.

Dead sneaks out the side door and pushes Kivi away - he's back to his feet. The crowd show their appreciation for the escape.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Dead misses with a combination
and Kivi counters with a one-two to the body.
Better Dead seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Dead lands a nice shot to the body.
Dead connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Kivi connects with a body shot that sends Dead's belly button to the back.

Dead lands a left and a right that send Kivi crashing to the mat, dazed. Dead thinks about following him to the mat but decides to wave him back up to his feet!

Kivi is rocked!

The cut above Atlas Kivi's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
Dead uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Kivi.
Kivi is still on wobbly legs! Can Dead finish him?
Dead throws a hook but Kivi blocks it.
Dead lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Kivi seems to have recovered his senses.
Kivi blocks a low kick nicely.
Kivi connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Dead throws a head kick that misses
and Kivi counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Dead takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Dead doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
A slapping leg kick lands for Kivi.
Dead throws a left and a right that both miss
and Kivi counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Kivi smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Dead smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Dead misses with a left hand
and Kivi counters with a stiff right hand.
Dead swinging wildly here.
Dead is looking to land body kicks.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Kivi! But no joy.
Dead throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Kivi let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Kivi moves out of range of the leg kick from Dead.
Dead misses with a low kick.
Dead throws a head kick that misses
and Kivi counters with a left to the body.
Dead lands with an overhand left.
Kivi lands a jab-cross combination.
A telegraphed right hand from Dead misses the target.
Kivi is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Dead.
Kivi misses with a hook. Dead ducked under it nicely.
Kivi delivers a nice body kick.
Dead throws a poor cross that misses
and Kivi counters with a lovely straight right hand!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Dead tried to score with a low kick but Kivi checks it.
A solid leg kick lands there for Kivi.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Dead misses with a jab, cross combination.
Kivi looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Kivi misses with a looping right.
Nice body punch from Kivi.
Dead misses with a straight left.
Dead takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Dead throws a combination that misses
and Kivi counters with a leg kick that reverborates around the arena.
Dead misses with a combination
letting Kivi counter with a right hand.
Dead throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Dead blocks a jab.
Dead misses with a hook. Kivi ducked under it nicely.
Dead takes one to the side of the head.
Dead takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Dead throws a nice inside leg kick.
Kivi moves out of range of the body kick from Dead.
Dead misses with an uppercut
and Kivi counters with a two punch combo.
Kivi jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Kivi misses with an uppercut. Dead saw that one coming.
Kivi just manages to avoid a counter high kick fromDead.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Better Dead dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Atlas Kivi's cut.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action.

Dead misses with the combination.
Kivi ducks under a wild hook from Dead.
Kivi has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.
Kivi fakes the leg kick and cracks Dead in the body.
A chopping leg kick lands by Kivi.
Better Dead is winning the standup battle so far.
Kivi throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Dead is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Kivi can do to turn this around?
Dead dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Kivi. That did some damage!
Kivi throws a body shot but no joy.
Dead throws a big shot that misses.
Kivi looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
A bone on bone clash there as Kivi blocks the leg kick.
The fighters circling - Dead throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Dead misses with a hook.
Kivi scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Nice uppercut lands for Kivi. That snapped Dead's head back.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Kivi avoids a punch combination nicely.
Kivi scores with a body shot.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Dead misses with a left hand
and Kivi connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Dead swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Dead swings widly with a right hand
and Kivi counters with a stiff right hand.
A solid leg kick lands there for Kivi.
Dead cracks the inside of Kivi's front leg.
Dead throws a leg kick
and Kivi connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Dead jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Kivi throws a quick inside leg kick.
A head kick by Dead misses
letting Kivi counter with a right hand.
Dead throws a low kick, looking for Kivi's leg but Kivi calmly moves out of range.
Dead throws a right hand that misses
and Kivi counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Dead looks to throw the jab but Kivi is out of range.
Dead misses with a right hand
letting Kivi counter with a right hand.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Kivi displaying good standup as he scores with a three punch combination.
Dead is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Dead ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Kivi moves away.
A countering left hand to the body from Kivi misses.
Kivi throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Nice jab there from Kivi.
Dead fails to land with a series of punches.
A jab from Kivi misses.
A little feinted left hand from Dead on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Kivi fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Dead.
Nice jab there from Dead.
Dead misses with a combination
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
and Dead takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Kivi connects with the punch.
Dead takes a swing at Kivi's ribcage but misses.
Dead misses with an uppercut. Kivi saw that one coming.
Dead stuns Kivi with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
A low kick from Dead misses

and Kivi counters with a takedown into side control.
Dead tries to wriggle free to get back to his feet but he's given up his back! Oops.

Dead showing good submission defense here.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Kivi lands a couple of good shots to his opponent's body and a final shot to the head. Good little attack there by Kivi.

Kivi is cranking Dead's head sideways - that looks painful. He's managed to get his other arm under the chin and this looks bad for Dead! He's tightened the choke and Dead is tapping out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:52 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Atlas Kivi!
Atlas Kivi decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.
In defeat, Better Dead stepped up to the mic, saying 'I was a little off today...o.k. I'm always a little off.'.