GDL 23: Rowley vs Wright PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Israel Adesanya (ranked 22780 p4p, 518 weight class) and Patrick River (ranked 5819 p4p, 484 weight class). Israel Adesanya has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Adesanya
vs
River

193 cm
21
185 lbs
3 - 4 - 0

188 cm
21
186 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Excellent boxer
Good chin

Powerful takedowns
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 3 - 4 - 0, fighting out of London, Israel Adesanya!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of New York, Patrick River!
The judges for this bout are Gwen Towbar, Alan Glass and Frank Dennis.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
River ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Nice body punch from River.
River ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Adesanya waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract River.
A combination from River does no damage.
Adesanya blocks a jab.
Adesanya uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from River.
River works Adesanya's body with a nice hook.
River scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
River lands with a good body shot.
A slow jab from Adesanya misses its intended target.
River scores with a hook to the body. Adesanya takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
This has been an exciting period of action!
River ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Adesanya moves away.
Some wild striking there from River.
River looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Adesanya misses with a right hand
and River counters with a straight right hand.
Adesanya pushes River away with a front kick.
Adesanya ducks down and throws a hook to the body but River moves away.
Adesanya slips a straight right by River.

That's one minute gone in the round.
River has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Adesanya finds it's way round the side to connect with River's head.
River doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Adesanya throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
River buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Adesanya on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Adesanya just misses with a punch to the body.
Adesanya takes a shot right to the bread basket.
River scores with a body shot.
River keeps Adesanya at a distance using the push kick.
River checks a leg kick.
River avoids the body shot from Adesanya.
River only half commits to the counter leg kick.
River throws a sloppy head kick and Adesanya moves out of range easily.
River fails to land with a series of punches.
Adesanya quickly followed up with a counter body kick but doesn't connect.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
A telegraphed right hand from Adesanya misses the target.
A combination from River does no damage.
River lands a nice hook to Adesanya's body. Adesanya takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
River works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
River works Adesanya's body with a nice hook.
A punch lands to the side of Adesanya 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Adesanya connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
River changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
River lands a nice shot to the body.
Adesanya takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
River swings for the body but Adesanya moves out of range.
River connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.

It looks like Israel Adesanya has been cut.
River misses with a jab, cross combination.
River lands with a good body shot.
River lands an overhand right.
Adesanya shapes like he's going to throw a leg kick but settles back down.
River is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Adesanya rather than just go for the knockout.
Adesanya takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Adesanya goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Good work by River as he checks the leg kick.
Adesanya misses the shot to the body.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
River throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
Adesanya has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from River finds it's way round the side to connect with Adesanya's head.
Adesanya throws a sloppy head kick

and River counters by clinching up.
A short body shot lands from River as the two fighters clinch.
Adesanya is breathing heavily.

River jumps into guard, dragging Adesanya to the mat.

River had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Adesanya defends it easily.
River tries to land a sweep but no joy.
River is adopting a defensive guard.

River looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Adesanya passes into side control.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
River gets back to half guard.

River looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
River trying to keep hold of his opponent's head but Adesanya manages to pass to mount!
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
River is wriggling around trying to escape.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Patrick River dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Israel Adesanya's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!

Adesanya tests River's chin there with a solid looking shot.
River looks to score with a jab to the body but Adesanya is just out of range.
Adesanya ducks under a wild hook from River.
It looked like Adesanya was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from River.
Adesanya takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Adesanya connects with an inside leg kick.
Nice defenses there by River.
River jabbing away but nothing is landing.
It looked like Adesanya was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from River.
River throws a front kick that sends Adesanya stumbling back into the cage.
River on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Adesanya throws an overhand right that lands on River's shoulder, as River tries to avoid the shot.
River connects with a single shot there.
River scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Adesanya doesn't seem bothered though.
Adesanya connects with a high kick.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Adesanya swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Adesanya looks to land a left hand but River moved out of range nicely.
River cracks the inside of Adesanya's front leg.
Adesanya with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling River to score with a decent uppercut.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Adesanya takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Adesanya 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.
Adesanya takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
River lands a body shot.
A low kick from Adesanya misses
and River counters with a lovely straight right hand!
River shuffles to his left behind two crisp jabs. Adesanya eats them both and turns towards River to reposition himself and eats a stinging right hand-left hook combo.
River scores with a nice strike.
River keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Adesanya.
River scores with a jab to the body.
Adesanya throws an overhand right that lands on River's shoulder, as River tries to avoid the shot.
River throws a front kick that sends Adesanya stumbling back into the cage.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Donk. River catches Adesanya right on the button with a cross.
River throws a shot to the body.
A solid leg kick lands there for River.
Adesanya walks into a stiff left hand from River.
River has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
River scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
River bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Adesanya's head backwards.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
River lands with a cross.
River lands a nice hook to Adesanya's body. Adesanya takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Adesanya looks to land a left hand but River moved out of range nicely.
River lands a right hook to the body.

The fight moves into the clinch position.
I was talking to Adesanya's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
River tries to throw a body punch but Adesanya avoids it by throwing River back against the cage.
River lands a hook that snaps the head of Adesanya backwards.

Adesanya breaks the clinch.
River lands a slapping body shot.
Adesanya drops his hands momentarily and River takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
An inside leg kick lands from River.
River lands a front kick.
River dips down and scores with a jab to the body.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Adesanya misses with a leg kick.
Good standup being displayed there by River as he connects with a hook.
River throws out a powerful jab.

Israel Adesanya's cut is getting worse.
River blocks the body kick.
River throws a nice outside leg kick.
River comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
River works Adesanya's body with a nice hook.
River connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
River stuns Adesanya with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
River bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
River looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Adesanya takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
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!
River throws a shot to the body.
That kick from River tenderised Adesanya's leg. Adesanya is trying to keep his angry face on.
Nice shot by River.
Adesanya misses with a kick to the body.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Adesanya swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
River lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Adesanya fakes high and swings low for a body shot but River manages to avoid it.
River throws a head kick that misses.
Adesanya is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.

River has closed the distance and engaged Adesanya in a clinch.
River misses with a punch on the inside.
River stalling.
Adesanya has a couple of punches blocked by River.

River manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Adesanya postures up.
Adesanya controls the pace of the fight for a moment.

River looking for a guillotine here but Adesanya defends easily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Patrick River showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Israel Adesanya's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! This is the final round!

Adesanya avoids the head kick by River.
The fighters circle momentarily. River darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
River scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
A looping hook to the body misses from Adesanya. River does a little dance to reset his feet.
Adesanya tries a head kick but it misses.
River bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Adesanya's head.
River connects with a leg kick. Adesanya looked like he was expecting something else and didn't defend it.
River connects with a body shot that sends Adesanya's belly button to the back.
River cracks Adesanya with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Adesanya misses with a body shot.
Adesanya throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Adesanya takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
River cracks Adesanya with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
River moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Adesanya takes one to the chin there.

Adesanya is rocked!
Adesanya swings and misses with a hook to the body.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Adesanya scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Adesanya looks to land a body kick but River moved away.
River jabs Adesanya to the body, keeping him at a distance.
River lands a brutal head kick. Adesanya looks out on his feet and River throws more strikes until the ref is forced to stop the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:19 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Kick and Punches). Patrick River!
Patrick River spent the whole post fight interview bigging himself up. It didn't go down that well with the fans after a while as they thought it was a bit arrogant.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
89%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Nolan Faust (ranked 5624 p4p, 376 weight class) and Alex Kozlovski (ranked 6101 p4p, 389 weight class). Nolan Faust is staring across the cage at his opponent, tweaking his nipples... Tweaking his own nipples that is.

Faust
vs
Kozlovski

170 cm
23
150 lbs
0 - 1 - 0

185 cm
18
148 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Counter fighter
Good chin

BJJ White Belt
Brawler
Intelligent

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Amsterdam, Nolan Faust!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of New York, Alex Kozlovski!
The judges for this bout are Frank Dennis, Wesley Smith and Stewart Dunkirk.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Kozlovski leaves Faust with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Kozlovski is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Kozlovski falls off balance throwing a combination
and Faust counters with a stiff right hand.
Sloppy strikes from Kozlovski. Those never looked like landing.
A swing and a miss from Kozlovski.
A head kick misses from Kozlovski.
Kozlovski connects with a single shot there.
Kozlovski tries to clinch up but Faust circles away and keeps his distance.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kozlovski misses with an uppercut. Faust saw that one coming.
Faust shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Kozlovski's corner calls for a 1-2. Kozlovski obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.

Kozlovski moves into range and clinches up with Faust.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Kozlovski breaks the clinch.
Kozlovski thows a left - swing and a miss!
Kozlovski swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Kozlovski lands with an uppercut that bounces Faust off the cage and back into range.

Faust is rocked!
Kozlovski is using his reach advantage to land shots from outside his opponent's range.
Kozlovski looks to land a left hand but Faust moved out of range nicely.
Kozlovski is a painfully thin specimen of a man. You do wonder whether a good body kick would snap him clean in two.
Faust takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Oh Faust is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Faust finds himself stumbling back on wobbly legs after being clipped by a right hand. He's up against the cage, ducking and weaving under Kozlovski's strikes but an uppercut finds it's way through and Faust falls! - He's completely out of it and the ref jumps in to save him!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:32 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Alex Kozlovski!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
57%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Bobby Kaynux (ranked 5413 p4p, 374 weight class) and Jim O Neil (ranked 3206 p4p, 283 weight class). Chooooooooon! I think Kaynux might be my favorite fighter, now he's come out to Billie Eilish Please Date Me ~ Dolla Bling$. Rumors backstage are that the fighters have been paid to keep it standing but we know that would never happen in MMA!

Kaynux
vs
O Neil

178 cm
20
145 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

176 cm
19
148 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Good kicks
Self confident

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Bobby Kaynux!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of New York, Jim O Neil!
The judges for this bout are Wesley Smith, Stewart Dunkirk and George Francis.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Kaynux will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.

Kaynux rushes O Neil and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
A real battle for position is taking place between these two warriors.
O Neil stops a takedown attempt from Kaynux.
O Neil lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Kaynux.
O Neil keeps control of Kaynux as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks.
O Neil lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Kaynux can't find room to land a body shot as O Neil controls the action.
O Neil trying to stall but Kaynux improves his position.
Kaynux looks like he'd prefer to be striking at range right now.
Kaynux tries a body shot but O Neil blocks it.
O Neil lands an uppercut.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A short uppercut from O Neil.
O Neil blocks a knee to the body. He'll have a nicely bruised forearm in the morning.
A short uppercut from O Neil.
Kaynux wants to break free. God knows he wants to breaaaak freeee.
Kaynux throws an elbow that misses.
O Neil's coach down at Cozad MMA New York was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on O Neil's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
O Neil keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Kaynux's efforts to push away.
O Neil pushes Kaynux back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Kaynux wants to strike at distance but he can't break free of the clinch.
O Neil lands with a short shot to the head.

Kaynux is rocked!
O Neil working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Oh Kaynux is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Kaynux wants to break free but O Neil has control.
O Neil stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
O Neil lands a left hand that snaps the head of Kaynux backwards.
Kaynux has had enough of the clinch but O Neil keeps him there for the moment.
Kaynux is trying to break the clinch but O Neil is controlling him.
O Neil lands an uppercut.
O Neil throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Kaynuxs head.
O Neil scores with a shot to the side of Kaynux's head.
O Neil throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Kaynuxs head.
O Neil lands on the inside with an uppercut.
O Neil lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
A short right from O Neil on the inside.
O Neil lands an uppercut in the clinch that drops Kaynux to his knees! O Neil keeps firing more shots against his stricken opponent and the referee jumps in to save him!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:44 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Jim O Neil!
The defeated Bobby Kaynux had this to say: 'Ouch that really hurt'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
67%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Sox Bully (ranked 5210 p4p, 139 weight class) and Thor Nordquist (ranked 5135 p4p, 137 weight class). We have two fighters making their debuts here, so let's see who comes out of this one with their first professional victory.

Bully
vs
Nordquist

197 cm
17
273 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

205 cm
18
275 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Solid boxing
Very quick

BJJ Blue Belt
Decent boxing
Very confident

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the super heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Sox Bully!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of New York, Thor Nordquist!
The judges for this bout are Alan Glass, Chris Downing and Cecil Peabody.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Bully closes this distance looking for a takedown but Nordquist circles away.

Nordquist takes the fight into the clinch.

Nordquist has Bully pressed up against the cage. He's trying to work for a single leg takedown. Nordquist pulls back from the cage and twists to the side, sending Bully tumbling to the mat - Nordquist dives into Bully's guard.
Bully is wriggling around but Nordquist manages to pass to half guard.

Bully tries to get to full guard but Nordquist has control of the leg.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nordquist frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
A nice elbow there by Nordquist.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nordquist controlling from mount.
Nordquist unloading with bombs!
Nordquist breaks from Bully's wrist control and lands an elbow.

Nordquist is working on an americana here. Ooh, that looks pretty nasty! Nope, Bully has managed to escape the submission attempt.
Nordquist scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Bully?
Nordquist unloading with bombs!
Nordquist controlling his opponent.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Nordquist lands a shot to the body, followed up by a shot to the exposed head of his trapped opponent.

Nordquist has hold of Bully's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and Bully manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger.
Bully knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Nordquist on the ground.
Nordquist breaks from Bully's wrist control and lands an elbow.

It looks like Sox Bully has been cut.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Bully is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Nordquist is landing with some decent strikes but Bully is trying to advance his position so the referee is letting the fight continue.
Nordquist sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Bully bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

Bully got a little sloppy there for a moment and Nordquist has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Bully has managed to get both his arms back between Nordquist's legs - danger averted.
Bully wants to control from the top but Nordquist keeps moving.
Nordquist managing to control the position.
Nordquist 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.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Nordquist working for a triangle but Bully defends it easily.
Nordquist seems keen to control Bully's posture.
Nordquist wants to stand up but Bully is controlling him.
Nordquist manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Bully manages to get himself to full guard.

And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Thor Nordquist dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Sox Bully's cut.
That's time! Back to the action!

Nordquist moves into the clinch successfully.

Nordquist gets control of Bully's arms and successfully pulls guard. Nordquist will no doubt be looking for submissions off his back.
Nordquist pulls Bully in to control the position.
Bully is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Nordquist has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Nordquist keeping full guard, as Bully tries to pass.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nordquist is pulling down on Bully's head to control his posture.
Thor Nordquist has got the better of the ground game so far.
Bully trying to control the position from guard on top but Nordquist is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nordquist seems keen to control Bully's posture.

Nordquist has his foot on Bully's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Bully works his way back into a safe position though.
Nordquist is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Bully pushing down on Nordquist's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Nordquist throws a strike from the bottom that misses.
Nordquist controlling the position for now.
Bully seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Nordquist does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Bully is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Bully is looking for the mount but instead finds himself back in full guard.
Bully working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Bully throws a big right hand that misses.
Bully stops Nordquist from standing up.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Ouch! a nice leg kick from Nordquist, right into the meat.

Nordquist gets in close and instigates a clinch.

Nordquist manages to pull guard.
Bully won't allow Nordquist to get back to his feet.
Nordquist is pulling down on Bully's head. It's preventing any offense from Bully, at least for the moment.

Bully gets to his feet and steps away from his opponent.
Bully fails with a takedown attempt.

Nordquist gets a takedown into half guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Bully moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Bully working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Nordquist.
Bully looking for a sweep. Not yet Bully, not yet.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!

Bully is scooting his butt against the cage and has managed to get back to his feet. Nordquist presses him back against the cage, presumably looking to take the fight back to the mat.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.

Nordquist breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Thor Nordquist showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Sox Bully's cut.
That's time! Bully's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!

Nordquist moves into the clinch.

Nordquist manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back.
Nordquist pulls Bully in close to prevent any damage.
Bully throws a strike but Nordquist rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top.

Nordquist forces his way into half guard.

Nordquist escapes and gets back to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nordquist circles away from the clinch attempt

and Nordquist counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Bully wants to stand back up but Nordquist manages to pass into side control.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Bully is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Nordquist has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Bully manages to get back to half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Bully wants to control but Nordquist is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Nordquist is figuring out what he wants to do next.
Bully wants to improve his position but Nordquist is controlling well.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Nordquist is working for a submission of some sort.
Nordquist is controlling the pace.
Bully tries to get to full guard but Nordquist has control of the leg.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Nordquist frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Bully wants to control but Nordquist is having none of it.
Nordquist lands with some vicious ground and pound - can Bully hang on?
Nordquist tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
The crowd growing excited in anticipation of a finish here! Right on cue, Nordquist cracks his opponent with a massive right hand that draws loud cheers!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Nordquist controlling from the full mount.
Bully is in all sorts of trouble here.
Nordquist pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Nordquist takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Bully really trying hard to get back to half guard here.

And that's the end of the fight!
Thor Nordquist comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Nordquist 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 Alan Glass scores the fight 27:30
Judge Chris Downing scores the fight 27:30
Judge Cecil Peabody scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Thor Nordquist!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
33%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Connor Royale (ranked 5777 p4p, 480 weight class) and Frankie Griggs (ranked 5950 p4p, 490 weight class). Frankie Griggs acknowledges the crowd's support as he enters the cage.

Royale
vs
Griggs

175 cm
21
170 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

185 cm
18
177 lbs
0 - 1 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid boxing
Big right hand

BJJ White Belt
Counter fighter
Heavy handed

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 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Montreal, Connor Royale!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Frankie Griggs!
The judges for this bout are Chris Downing, George Francis and Gwen Towbar.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Griggs!
Royale scores with a hook to the body. Griggs takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
The fight stays on the outside here - Royale looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Royale cracks Griggs with a right hand to the side of the head.
Connor Royale seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Griggs's jab looks to have found its range, popping Royale under the eye.
Royale throws a head kick that misses.
Griggs looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Royale feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Griggss jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Royale tries to close the distance and clinch but Griggs swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
It seemed like Griggs was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Royale walks into a straight right hand from Griggs.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Royale tries to clinch up.
That's a knee to de groin and it's over and out! Griggs crumples to the ground after an illegal strike from Royale - the referee stops the clock and Griggs gets 5 minutes to recover from that one. "I'm sorry" says Royale. Griggs manages to get back to his feet and the fight resumes.
A punch combination from Griggs misses.
Royale is trying to close the distance and clinch up, after that failed offence from Griggs.
A punch combination from Griggs misses.
Royale seem to be loading up, looking for a big counter.
Griggs lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Royale is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Griggs throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Royale cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Griggs misses the shot to the body.
Royale digs a good body shot into Griggs's ribs.
Royale throws a head kick that misses.
Royale tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Royale tries to clinch

and Griggs counters with a single leg into guard. Royale didn't expect that.
Griggs really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Royale. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.

Royale is working an open guard so Griggs takes the opportunity to get back to his feet.
Royale throws a poor cross that misses
and Griggs counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Royale rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Griggs moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Griggs misses with a jab, cross combination.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Royale tries to clinch but Griggs is having none of it.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Royale doesn't manage to clinch there - Griggs circles away.
Royale swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Griggs's coach down at Desert Fitness & Training (12 Elites and Growing) was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Griggs's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
Griggs misses with a few strikes there.
Royale tries to clinch up but Griggs circles away and keeps his distance.
Griggs just misses with a punch to the body.
Griggs throws a left and a right that both miss
and Royale counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Royale tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Griggs paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Royale tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Royale wants to clinch up but Griggs keeps it at a distance.
Griggs throws a counter combo.
Royale tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Royale avoids a punch combination nicely.
Royale swinging wildly here.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Royale is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
The fight stays on the outside here - Royale looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Royale misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Griggs.
Griggs is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Royale with a body shot.
Royale throws a sloppy head kick and Griggs moves out of range easily.
Griggs now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Griggs connects with a jab.
Royale throws a sloppy head kick and Griggs moves out of range easily.
Royale is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
No joy there for Griggs, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Royale is looking for a counter combo.
Royale avoids a punch combination nicely.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Royale lands a jab. Then a cross. Then finally a nice hook to the body. Good work there by Royale.
Griggs throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Royale half committed to a counter leg kick.
Royale throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Griggs looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.

Royale drives through and clinches with Griggs against the cage.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Griggs is trying to pull guard but Royale has him pressed against the cage.
Royale can't break the clinch.
Royale looking to stall.
Royale prevents the takedown attempt.

Royale's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Frankie Griggs will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.

Griggs throws an overhand right that lands on Royale's shoulder, as Royale tries to avoid the shot.
Griggs misses with the combination.
Griggs fails to land with a series of punches.
Connor Royale is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Royale throws a body shot but no joy.
Royale tries to close the distance and clinch up but Griggs swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Frankie Griggs seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Griggs throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Royale.
Royale looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Griggs throws a right and a left that both miss.

Royale gets a clinch.
Royale tries to stall but Griggs uses the opportunity to gain a better position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Royale breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
The crowd cheers as Griggs lands an impressive looking overhand right. Royale doesn't seem phased though.
Royale tries to clinch there but Griggs circles away.
Royale on the wrong end of a nice hook.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Royale tries to close the distance and clinch but Griggs swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Royale swings widly with a right hand
and Griggs counters with a series of strikes. Royale will be more careful next time no doubt.
Griggs throws a series of punches but Royale avoids them all with ease.

Royale clinches with his opponent.

Griggs manages to break the clinch.
Griggs has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.
Griggs tries to bum rush Royale with a series of wild strikes but Royale uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Royale throws a series of punches but Griggs moves out of range.
Royale closes the distance but Griggs moves to the side
and Griggs counters with a three punch combo that has Royale backing up. Royale nods at Griggs to acknowledge the strikes.
Griggs throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Royale connects with a high kick.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Griggs ducks under a wild hook from Royale.
Royale closes the distance but Griggs moves to the side
letting Griggs counter with a right hand.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Royale wants to clinch up but Griggs keeps it at a distance.
Griggs looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.

Royale clinches up against the cage.
Royale is trying to push Griggs away but Griggs has him pressed against the cage, so he's going nowhere.
Royale misses with a body punch.
Griggs is looking for a takedown.
Griggs throws a knee to the head but misses.
Griggs looks to throw an elbow but misses.

Royale breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Royale moves to clinch but Griggs breaks away
and Griggs connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Griggs swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Royale tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Griggs takes a punch to the jaw and another one to the bread basket.
Royale displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Griggs throws out the jab.
Royale is looking for a counter combo.
Royale tries to clinch but Griggs is having none of it.
Griggs keeps the fight on the outside.
Royale showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Griggs.
Nice shot lands for Griggs.
Royale takes a shot right to the bread basket.

Royale closes the distance and clinches.

Royale pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Griggs has been the more effective fighter overall so far.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Royale is looking to clinch but Griggs is avoiding it.
Griggs scores with a one two! Royale had his feet all tangled up there and couldn't avoid the strikes.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Royale throws a right and a left that both miss.
Griggs feints the counter takedown.
Griggs closes the distance and lands a one-two.
Royale closes the distance and lands a one-two.
Royale throws a leg kick that misses.
Royale jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Royale throws a series of punches but Griggs avoids them all with ease.
Royale throws a jab but it's blocked by Griggs.
Griggs throws a nice looking combination but Royale bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
And Royale counters with a quick kick to the body but Griggs blocks it.
Griggs keeps the fight on the outside.
Royale looks to clinch
and Griggs counters with a nice uppercut.
Griggs throws a combination that misses

and Royale counters with a head kick that drops Griggs to the mat! Griggs scrambles across the canvas and gets back to his feet, still wobbly!

Griggs is rocked!
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Frankie Griggs showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!

and Royale counters with a massive uppercut that badly hurts Griggs! He's just covering up as Royale starts to tee off till the referee steps in and stops the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:05 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Connor Royale!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
68%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Lukas Whiskey (ranked 6509 p4p, 509 weight class) and Fred El Celso (ranked 22937 p4p, 533 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Whiskey
vs
El Celso

178 cm
18
183 lbs
0 - 1 - 0

168 cm
21
183 lbs
5 - 4 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Intelligent

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Solid chin

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 0 - 1 - 0, fighting out of New York, Lukas Whiskey!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 5 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Fred El Celso!
The judges for this bout are Cecil Peabody, Wesley Smith and Tiny Johnson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
A punch combination from Whiskey misses.
Whiskey moves in looking to clinch but El Celso pushes him off.
Whiskey chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Whiskey darts in trying to clinch

and El Celso counters with a single leg into guard. Whiskey didn't expect that.
El Celso controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
El Celso sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Whiskey's guard.
El Celso trying to pass the guard but Whiskey defending well.
El Celso content to control rather than advance.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
It looks like El Celso might be adopting somewhat of a lay and pray gameplan here, which I'm sure won't go down too well with the paying fans in attendance... Or the ring announcers come to think of it.

That's one minute gone in the round.

El Celso in half guard on the top. He's looking for a kimura... He's got it locked and he's managed to free his trapped foot. Whiskey tries to escape but it's on too tight and he has to tap! Great BJJ skills there from El Celso!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:21 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Fred El Celso!
A relieved looking Fred El Celso thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
56%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between El Pollo Loco (ranked 4700 p4p, 446 weight class) and Earnold Wilkson (ranked 5902 p4p, 488 weight class). Earnold Wilkson is the more experienced fighter, so let's see if that makes a difference tonight.

Pollo Loco
vs
Wilkson

183 cm
22
190 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

180 cm
23
190 lbs
0 - 1 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Brawler
Granite chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Decent boxing
Solid chin

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 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, El Pollo Loco!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Earnold Wilkson!
The judges for this bout are Chris Downing, George Francis and Wesley Smith.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Loco showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Wilkson.

Loco shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Wilkson is trying to maintain the position but Loco is very close to passing his half guard.
Wilkson is trying to control but Loco passes into side control!
Wilkson throws a few strikes from the bottom but Loco takes advantage and mounts!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Loco can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Wilkson is looking to escape.
Wilkson is desperately trying to get back to half guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Wilkson throwing hammer fists to the chest of Loco. What's that going to do exactly?
Wilkson wants to control but Loco is having none of it.
Wilkson tries to control Loco's body but Loco pushes him off. Wilkson squirms to his side and now Loco has his back!
Wilkson staying busy and making it hard for Loco to control.
Loco connects with a big shot to the side of Wilkson's head.
Wilkson is keeping busy.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Wilkson wants to control his opponent's hands but Loco gets his hands free.
You can see the frustration on Wilkson's face… He knows he is in trouble unless he improves his position sooner rather than later.
Wilkson is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Watch the back of the head! Comes the shout from the referee towards Loco.
Loco controls the position.

Wilkson is displaying good submission defense - not really looking in danger of submitting to the rear naked choke at the moment. That could change in an instant of course if Loco gets his way!
Wilkson trying to control the hands but Loco breaks the grip.

Loco working for the choke.
Loco is breathing heavily.
Wilkson trying to control but he's just got himself in more trouble.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Wilkson rolls and manages to get back to half guard. Nicely done.
Wilkson trying to control but Loco postures up.
Wilkson wants to improve his position but Loco is controlling well.

Loco is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
Loco wants to take a breather but Wilkson is having none of it.

Wilkson is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Loco pulls his head out easily.
Loco wants to control but Wilkson is keeping him busy.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Loco perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Wilkson is looking to improve his position.
Wilkson trying to control from the bottom.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
Wilkson is staying active underneath Loco, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Wilkson regains full guard. Nicely done.
Loco trying to control but Wilkson is working from the bottom.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Loco tries to free his leg and advance position but Wilkson is retaining full guard.
Loco won't allow Wilkson to get back to his feet.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Wilkson scores with a nice looking left hook and follows it up with an uppercut!
Wilkson swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Loco throws a big counter combination but Wilkson scrambles out of danger and avoids any damage.
Wilkson looks for the body kick but Loco saw that one coming.

Loco rushes Wilkson and presses him up against the cage.

Wilkson breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Loco dodges the punch combination from Wilkson.
Wilkson throws a wild body kick that Loco sees coming a mile off.
Loco looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Wilkson!
Earnold Wilkson seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Wilkson fails to land with a series of punches.
Loco wants to take advantage of his opponent's missed offense by moving into the clinch.
Wilkson listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Loco shoots in and drives through. Wilkson sprawls well.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Wilkson lands with an uppercut that bounces Loco off the cage and back into range.
Wilkson looks for the body kick but Loco saw that one coming.
El Pollo Loco is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Loco is defended easily by Wilkson.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Loco's corner calls for a 1-2. Loco obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Wilkson throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Loco.
Wilkson is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Loco swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Wilkson scores with a nice one two combo and darts back out of range to avoid anything coming in the opposite direction.
Earnold Wilkson seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Wilkson misses with a two punch combination.
Wilkson misses with a double jab.
Wilkson misses with a wild combination.
Wilkson throws a right and a left that Loco avoids nicely.
Wilkson lands a nice looking body shot.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Wilkson lands a two punch combo.
Loco throws a looping overhand right but Wilkson ducks down to avoid it.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Wilkson moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Wilkson pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Loco tries to clinch there but Wilkson circles away.

Loco shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Wilkson is trying to defend but Loco finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.

Wilkson kicks Loco off and gets back to his feet.
Loco throws a body shot but no joy.
Wilkson misses with a wild combination.
Loco half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Wilkson has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Loco throws a left and a right that both miss
and Wilkson counters with a three punch combo that has Loco backing up. Loco nods at Wilkson to acknowledge the strikes.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Wilkson moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
A combination from Wilkson does no damage.
Like a baseball bat into the meat of his leg there - nice leg kick by Loco.
Loco takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Wilkson will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Wilkson tries to bum rush Loco with a series of wild strikes but Loco uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Wilkson tries to bum rush Loco with a series of wild strikes but Loco uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Loco tries to counter by clinching up but Wilkson breaks away and moves out of range.
Loco fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Wilkson manages to avoid it.
Wilkson misses with a few strikes there.

Loco gets the takedown into side control.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
You can see the frustration on Wilkson's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.

Loco tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Loco has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Wilkson is not content to let Loco control the position.
Wilkson is trying to improve his position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Wilkson sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Loco is trying to control the action in half guard but Wilkson is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Wilkson is trying to get back to full guard.
Loco trying to pass the guard but Wilkson defending well.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Earnold Wilkson showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! And we move into the final round!

Wilkson throws a wild body kick that Loco sees coming a mile off.
Loco shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Wilkson lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Wilkson throws a right and a left that both miss.
Loco wants to take advantage of his opponent's missed offense by moving into the clinch.
Wilkson throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Wilkson pushes forward with a 1-2 combination that forces Loco back to the cage. Wilkson follows up with a solid lead hook to the liver.
Loco moves out of range as Wilkson throws a body kick.
It looked like Loco was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
Loco takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Loco dodges the punch combination from Wilkson.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A combination from Wilkson does no damage.
Wilkson dives in for a single leg takedown but Loco sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Loco takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Wilkson's jab looks to have found its range, popping Loco under the eye.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Loco is on the wrong end of a nice combination from Wilkson.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Wilkson moves into range and throws a combination. A nice jab followed by a hook to the body.
Loco throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Wilkson is looking to chop away at Loco's legs.
Wilkson misses with a few strikes there.
Loco tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Wilkson manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Wilkson misses with a jab, cross combination.
Wilkson throws a right and a left that both miss.
Wilkson throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Loco avoids a punch combination nicely.
Loco tries to clinch but Wilkson is having none of it.
Loco tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Wilkson paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Loco gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Wilkson.
Loco shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Wilkson sprawls well. Wilkson wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Loco gets slowly back to his feet.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Wilkson displaying good standup as he scores with a three punch combination.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
A combination from Loco does no damage.
Wilkson fails to land with a series of punches.
Loco tries to clinch up but Wilkson circles away and keeps his distance.
Wilkson throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Wilkson jabs Loco right on the nose. Loco blinks but takes it well.
Wilkson lands a jab-cross combination.
Loco showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Wilkson.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Loco tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Wilkson paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Wilkson throws a right and a left that both miss.
Loco looks to clinch
and Wilkson counters with a one-two to the body.
Wilkson keeps the fight on the outside.
Wilkson displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Loco.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for El Pollo Loco. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Wilkson lands a two punch combo.
Loco swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Wilkson pushes forward with a 1-2 combination that forces Loco back to the cage. Wilkson follows up with a solid lead hook to the liver.
Wilkson misses with a double jab.
Loco shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Wilkson defends it nicely.
Loco looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Loco fails in his attempt to clinch.
Wilkson fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Loco shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Wilkson pinned against the cage. Wilkson gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Wilkson throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Loco closes this distance looking for a takedown but Wilkson circles away.
Wilkson lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.
Wilkson looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Loco tries to clinch but Wilkson is having none of it.
Loco takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Wilkson shuffles to his left behind two crisp jabs. Loco eats them both and turns towards Wilkson to reposition himself and eats a stinging right hand-left hook combo.
Loco dodges the punch combination from Wilkson.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Chris Downing scores the fight 27:29
Judge George Francis scores the fight 27:29
Judge Wesley Smith scores the fight 27:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Earnold Wilkson!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
56%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Mr Miyagi Pat Morita (ranked 4917 p4p, 446 weight class) and Victor Klimov (ranked 22956 p4p, 541 weight class). The atmosphere really building for this one as we go over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Miyagi Pat Morita
vs
Klimov

180 cm
18
167 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

189 cm
21
180 lbs
2 - 6 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent MT
Big heart

Good wrestler
Decent boxing
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 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of London, Mr Miyagi Pat Morita!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Victor Klimov!
The judges for this bout are George Francis, Stewart Dunkirk and Frank Dennis.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Nice body kick from Pat Morita.

Pat Morita closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Pat Morita lands in his opponent's guard.
Pat Morita trying to control but Klimov is working from the bottom.
Pat Morita showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Pat Morita wants to control from the top but Klimov keeps moving.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Klimov is pulling down on Pat Morita's head. It's preventing any offense from Pat Morita, at least for the moment.
Pat Morita wants to pass the guard but Klimov is keeping the position.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Klimov 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.
Pat Morita trying to control but Klimov is working from the bottom.
Pat Morita controls the pace of the fight for a moment.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Pat Morita throws a jab when Klimov was well out of range.
Victor Klimov is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Klimov lands a nice hook to Pat Morita's body. Pat Morita takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Klimov stuffs the takedown attempt from Pat Morita. Pat Morita gets slowly back to his feet.
Klimov misses with an uppercut.
Klimov throws a shot from downtown. Pat Morita moves away and avoids it.
Klimov lands with a shot to the body.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Pat Morita takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Klimov scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Klimov fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Pat Morita tries a head kick but it misses.
Pat Morita throws a head kick but Klimov moves out of range.
Jab from Klimov.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Nice defenses there by Pat Morita.
Klimov slips a jab from Pat Morita.
A jab from Klimov misses.
Klimov throws a shot from downtown. Pat Morita moves away and avoids it.

Klimov cracks Pat Morita with a big right hand that sends him to the floor! Pat Morita looks wobbly but he's sprung back up to his feet straight away… can Klimov finish him?

Pat Morita is rocked!

Klimov sends Pat Morita crashing to the mat with a devastating uppercut! Klimov is motioning to the referee to let Pat Morita up. He wants to try and finish this one on the feet!
Oh Pat Morita is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Klimov weaves into range and cracks Pat Morita right on the temple with a beautiful overhand right! Pat Morita goes down! He's out cold! Wow, what a beautiful knockout! Klimov is strutting round the canvas like a movie star as the camera bulbs flash frantically.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:50 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Victor Klimov!
An out of breath Victor Klimov thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
59%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Bin Hae (ranked 5032 p4p, 455 weight class) and Chappo Deneria (ranked 5055 p4p, 457 weight class). Chappo Deneria has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Hae
vs
Deneria

190 cm
18
210 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

185 cm
19
205 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Self confident

BJJ White Belt
Counter fighter
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the light heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Bin Hae!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of New York, Chappo Deneria!
The judges for this bout are George Francis, Gwen Towbar and Stewart Dunkirk.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Deneria shoots in for a double leg but Hae sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Hae feinted with a counter takedown.
Deneria keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.

Hae drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Deneria looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Deneria seems a little lost for a moment, as Hae dominates the positioning.

Hae tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Hae scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Deneria to see if he's OK.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hae connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Deneria some visible discomfort.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Deneria dodges the ground and pound from Hae.

Hae tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Hae has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!

Hae stands up.
Hae moves in looking to clinch but Deneria pushes him off.

Deneria tries to keep at a distance but Hae has taken the fight into the clinch.

Hae jumps guard and drags Deneria to the mat. He's obviously going to be looking for submissions off his back.
Deneria is stalling in the full guard.
Deneria loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Hae is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Deneria is controlling him.
Hae lands a decent shot there.
Hae pulls Deneria in to control the position.
Hae is trying to control the position but Deneria postures up.
Deneria must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Hae managing to control the position.
Hae working a defensive guard here.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Hae looks for the body kick but Deneria saw that one coming.
Hae throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Hae fails to land the takedown.

Deneria looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
Hae wants to improve his position but Deneria is controlling well.
Hae trying to hold on to Deneria's head to control him but Deneria postures up.
Nice strikes from Deneria there.
Deneria is trying to control. Hae wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Deneria prevents Hae from improving his position.
Hae makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Hae.
Hae wants to stand and escape but Deneria is having none of it.
Deneria preventing the sweep.
Hae is looking to stand up but Deneria isn't so interested in that idea.

Hae throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Hae is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move.

And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Bin Hae dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!

Deneria rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Hae moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Hae misses with a double jab
and Deneria connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.

Hae has taken the fight to the clinch.

Hae breaks the clinch.
Deneria slaps away a takedown attempt from Hae, before circling back to the center of the mat.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hae slaps away a takedown attempt from Deneria, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Hae shoots in and drives through. Deneria sprawls well.
Deneria is looking to take this fight into the clinch.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hae tries to clinch
and Deneria counters with a series of strikes. Hae will be more careful next time no doubt.

Hae has taken the fight to the clinch.

Hae turns his back and goes for a hip toss. It's a bit messy but it gets the job done and Hae manages to end up in side control.
Hae lands some shots froms side control.
Deneria can't do much from the bottom here.
Hae trying to control the position but Deneria is working away.
Hae gets to mount! Deneria was on the offensive and wasn't defending properly.
Hae looking to control and managing it successfully.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Hae looking to finish Deneria with some ground and pound. This is bad for Deneria!
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!
Hae trying to control but he's not successful this time.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Hae takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Hae can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Deneria is looking to escape.
Deneria can't escape the position.
Hae looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
Deneria is looking to get to half guard.

Hae jumps to side control looking for an arm triangle but Deneria manages to avoid the submission attempt.
Hae moves into full mount!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Hae controlling from the full mount.
Hae raining down shots from the mount!
Hae is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Deneria can do to turn this around?
Hae landing strikes from the mount.
Deneria wants to hold on but Hae pushes him away.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Hae working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Hae with good strikes from the mount here!
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Deneria can do anything to dispel that myth.
Hae controlling from the full mount.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Bin Hae dominated that second round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!

Hae shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Deneria is trying to defend but Hae finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Hae perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
Hae 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.
Deneria is trying to maintain the position but Hae is very close to passing his half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Deneria is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Hae's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Hae's back!
Hae trying to control the hands but Deneria breaks the grip.
Hae wants to get back to his feet.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hae trying to control the position but Deneria manages to sink in the hooks.
A bit of a pause in the action here. Deneria controlling the positon.
Hae just trying to survive but Deneria is wriggling into a better position, looking to finish.
Hae trying to get back to his feet but Deneria is in full control for now.
Hae trying to control the action but Deneria just sinks the hooks in.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Hae rolls, trying to escape but Deneria keeps control of the position.

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.
Deneria is looking to control Hae but Hae is wriggling around and keeping busy.
Deneria gets his hands free as Hae looks to control.
Hae tries to roll but Deneria sticks to his back.
Deneria is looking cool and calm here, just waiting for a good opportunity to attack and finish the fight from this dominant position.
Hae breaks Deneria's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
Hae tries to stand but Deneria is controlling from the bottom.
Deneria wants to control but Hae passes easily into half guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Hae wants to take a breather but Deneria is having none of it.
Bin Hae overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Deneria has hold of Hae's hands but Hae slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Deneria is trying to control but Hae passes into side control!
Deneria is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Hae controls the position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Hae cracks Deneria with an elbow. That is naaassty.
Deneria is looking to reverse the position.
Hae looks up at the clock and then as Deneria takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Hae smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
Deneria takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Hae trying to control the position but Deneria is working away.
Hae is pausing for a moment. What's he doing? It looks like he's clearing his nose. Oh dude! He's shot a load of snot all down Deneria's shoulder. That is not cool.
Hae tries to advance to mount but Deneria denies him.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Hae trying to control the action but Deneria is working from the bottom.
Chappo Deneria has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Bin Hae is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Hae looks up at the clock and then as Deneria takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Hae smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge George Francis scores the fight 30:27
Judge Gwen Towbar scores the fight 30:27
Judge Stewart Dunkirk scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Bin Hae!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
32%

Main event

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Dane Rowley (ranked 4525 p4p, 387 weight class) and Cleon Wright (ranked 4553 p4p, 388 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Rowley
vs
Wright

180 cm
18
150 lbs
0 - 2 - 0

170 cm
18
150 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent MT
Cuts easily

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Intelligent

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the lightweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 2 - 0, fighting out of London, Dane Rowley!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Cleon Wright !
The judges for this bout are Frank Dennis, Daniel Franklin and George Francis.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Rowley gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Wright .
Rowley misses with a jab, cross combination.
Sloppy strikes from Wright . Those never looked like landing.
Rowley on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Wright lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Rowley misses with a wild combination.
Nice shot by Wright .
Wright lands with a straight right. Rowley didn't see that one coming.
Rowley looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Wright scores with a nice right hand.

Rowley is rocked!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Rowley swinging wildly here.
Oh Rowley is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Rowley fails to land with a series of punches.
Wright is trying to avoid his opponent's strikes and get into the clinch.
Rowley seems to have got his legs back now.
Wright cracks Rowley with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Wright drops Rowley with a huge uppercut! Rowley drops to the floor like a sack of potatoes. Wright is raining down punches and the ref stops the fight! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:52 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Cleon Wright !