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Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: DMMA 309 Steve vs Karja     
Date:   Apr 20, 2024
#R1#
Spong looks to land a left hand but Ihantala moved out of range nicely.
Spong has a takedown stuffed.
Spong looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.#TD#
Spong drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Ihantala wants to sweep but no luck.
Spong wants to control from the top but Ihantala keeps moving. #SUB#
Spong drops back looking for a leg! Ihantala is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Ihantala manages to kick Spong off! Spong jumps back into Ihantala's guard.
Ihantala looking to hit a scissor sweep but Spong is one step ahead there.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Spong throws a strike but Ihantala rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVB##SUB#
Spong looking for subs off his back but Ihantala has passed one foot through into half guard. #T1#
Ihantala is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Ihantala seems to have lost interest with the ground game and is thinking about standing back up.
Spong is trying to maintain the position but Ihantala is very close to passing his half guard.
Spong is refusing to be controlled, as Ihantala sits in half guard.
Spong might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Spong has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Ihantala is working away from the top position though.
Ihantala thows a huge punch but Spong dodges it nicely.
Ihantala missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Ihantala prevents Spong from improving his position.#T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Ihantala tries to stand and escape but Spong is controlling the position.
Spong is looking to improve his position.
Ihantala is keen to just control but Spong is a slippery customer.
Ihantala prevents Spong from improving his position.
Ihantala wants to pass to mount but Spong is defending the position.
Spong trying to control but Ihantala postures up.
Spong is not content to let Ihantala control the position.
Ihantala seems to have lost interest with the ground game and is thinking about standing back up.
Ihantala with a momentary lay and pray from half guard. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Spong is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Ihantala.
Spong looks to land a left hand but Ihantala moved out of range nicely.#T3#
Spong thows a left - swing and a miss!
Tali Ihantala is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Ihantala slips a jab from Spong.
Ihantala misses with an attempted mid kick.
Spong checks a leg kick nicely.
Spong shoots in looking for a takedown. Ihantala tries to sprawl out of it but Spong keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Ihantala manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Spong fails to land the takedown.
A little jabbing left from Ihantala on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Daniel Spong. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Spong uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Ihantala.
Spong uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Ihantala.
Spong looks to score with a jab to the body but Ihantala is just out of range.
Spong takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Spong moves out of range of the strikes.
Ihantala misses with a looping left.
Spong throws a jab when Ihantala was well out of range.
Spong throws a big shot that misses.#T4#
Ihantala throws a hook but Spong blocks it.
Ihantala fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Ihantala closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Spong throws out a loose jab but Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid it. #TD#
Spong feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Spong trying to control but Ihantala is working from the bottom.
Spong postures up and lands a big shot to Ihantala's brow.
Spong content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Ihantala looking to hit a scissor sweep but Spong is one step ahead there.
Spong postures up and lands a big shot to Ihantala's brow.
Spong connects with a couple of short punches.
Ihantala wants to sweep but no luck.
Ihantala utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Tali Ihantala will probably get the nod.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Ihantala throws an overhand right that lands on Spong's shoulder, as Spong tries to avoid the shot.
Spong feinted with a counter takedown.
Ihantala throws a jab when Spong was well out of range.
Spong tests Ihantala's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Spong is really struggling to find his range with his punches. Ihantala's reach advantage is clearly causing him problems.
Spong throws a hook to the side of Ihantala's head but Ihantala sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Ihantala throws a big shot that misses.
Ihantala misses with a hook. Spong ducked under it nicely.
Tali Ihantala seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Ihantala misses with a looping left.#TD#
Spong feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Spong lands a couple of digs.
Ihantala wants to sweep here but Spong controlling him for the moment.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Spong from controlling successfully.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Spong's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Spong preventing the sweep.
Spong chips away with some ground and pound.#T1#
Ihantala is pulling down on Spong's head to control his posture.
Spong with a nice head shot there.
Spong won't allow Ihantala to sweep him here.
Spong lands a couple of digs.
Spong trying to control the position from guard on top but Ihantala is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Spong lands a couple of digs.
Spong connects with a couple of short punches.
Ihantala manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Spong manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
Daniel Spong overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#SUB#
Spong is looking for a triangle but Ihantala pushes his legs off easily. #SUB#
Spong is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Ihantala defends well.#T2#
Spong trying to control the position.
Ihantala controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Spong 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.#SUB#
Spong looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Ihantala looking to sit in guard and control but Spong gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR#
Spong with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Spong throws a big right hand that misses.
Ihantala 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.
Spong is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long. #T3#
Spong connects with a couple of short punches.
Spong working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Ihantala's head.
Spong controls from within his opponent's guard.
Spong scoring with punches to the head and body.
Spong scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Ihantala lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Ihantala wanted to stand there but Spong had control of the position.
Spong keeping moving, preventing Ihantala from controlling successfully.
Ihantala would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard. #T4#
Spong is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Ihantala won't allow Spong to sweep him here.
Ihantala wanted to stand there but Spong had control of the position.
Spong is controlling Ihantala's posture.
Spong looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Spong looking to control.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Ihantala trying to control the position from guard on top but Spong is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB#
Spong working for a triangle but Ihantala defends it easily.
Ihantala has decided he wants to stand but the closed guard of Spong is proving hard to escape from.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Daniel Spong dominated that second round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action. And we move into the final round!#R3##TD#
Spong shoots in and bounces Ihantala off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
Ihantala wants to get back to his feet but Spong passes into half guard.
Spong lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Spong slips a nice elbow through Ihantala's hands, connecting with Ihantala's forehead.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Spong is thwarting Ihantala's attempts to control the position.
Spong scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Ihantala tries to roll over but Spong keeps him under control.#T1#
Ihantala wants to get back to his feet.
Spong wants to take a breather but Ihantala is having none of it.
Ihantala tries to kick Spong off but Spong keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
Spong lands with a punch from half guard.
Spong lands strikes from half guard.
Ihantala is looking to improve his position.
Ihantala wants to control but Spong is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Nice strikes from Spong there.
Spong is nestled in close to Ihantala, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Spong looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Ihantala with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Spong is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Ihantala can do to turn this around?
Ihantala is in trouble now - Spong has advanced to mount! #T2#
Spong looking to finish here with some ground and pound. He lands one big shot that has Ihantala covering up... and two more big strikes land, forcing the referee to step in and put and end to proceedings! This fight is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:20 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Daniel Spong!
Daniel Spong decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

 

Event: DMMA 304 Tyler vs Zhdanov     
Date:   Mar 24, 2024
#R1#
Lovanov paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Lovanov paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Lovanov ducks under a wild hook from Ihantala.
Lovanov has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Fight Club in the buildup to the fight.
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Lovanov throws out the jab.
Ihantala misses with a wild combination.
Lovanov lands a jab to Ihantala's midsection.
Lovanov misses the jab.
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Lovanov throws out the jab.
Lovanov fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Ihantala throws a counter combo.
Good shot there by Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a shot from downtown. Lovanov moves away and avoids it.
Ihantala misses with a right hand
and Lovanov counters with a nice leg kick.
Ihantala throws a left and a right that both miss
and Lovanov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Ihantala thumps Lovanov with a low kick.
Tali Ihantala seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Left hook, right uppercut from Ihantala.
Ihantala walks into a straight right hand from Lovanov.#T1##TD#
Lovanov scores with a takedown into Ihantala's guard.
Ihantala not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Lovanov seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up.
Lovanov in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Lovanov stopping the sweep attempt from Ihantala.
Lovanov 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.
Ihantala is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Lovanov controls from within his opponent's guard.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Lovanov is pushing down on Ihantala's leg trying to pass to half guard. Ihantala is fighting to maintain full guard but Lovanov has managed to sneak the leg through.#T2#
Ihantala is staying active underneath Lovanov, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Ihantala on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Lovanov wants to lay and pray for a moment but Ihantala keeps working.
Ihantala slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Lovanov landing with the ground and pound.
Lovanov slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard. #T3#
Ihantala looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Lovanov is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Ihantala working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Lovanov.
Ihantala wants to get back to his feet but Lovanov is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Lovanov stands and throws Ihantala's legs to the side, diving into side control. #T4#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Ihantala tries to bench press Lovanov off him but Lovanov keeps the position.
Ihantala is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Lovanov scores with a couple of short elbows.
Ihantala takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Lovanov trying to control the position but Ihantala is working away.
Lovanov is chipping away with strikes.
Ihantala tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Ihantala is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Zahbit Lovanov dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Lovanov slips a straight right by Ihantala.
Lovanov throws a lazy right hand but Ihantala sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Ihantala looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Lovanov scores with a jab to the body.
Lovanov misses with a straight right.
Lovanov misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
Ihantala swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Ihantala throws a combination. Lovanov tries to block but a couple of punches get through.
Lovanov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ihantala was well out of range. Poor timing from Lovanov.
Lovanov loads up on a big right hand but Ihantala slips the punch.
Ihantala misses with a two punch combination.
Lovanov feinted with a counter takedown.
Ihantala throws a body kick that misses #TD#
so Lovanov counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Lovanov stopping the sweep attempt from Ihantala.
Lovanov trying to control the position from guard on top but Ihantala is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Ihantala preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage. #T1#
Lovanov working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Ihantala's head.
Lovanov working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Lovanov trying to control the position from guard on top but Ihantala is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Ihantala is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Lovanov lands a couple of elbows.
Lovanov scoring with some ground and pound.
Lovanov landing with the ground and pound.
Lovanov landing some decent shots from guard. #T2#
Lovanov stays in close to Ihantala's body and controls the position.
Ihantala is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Ihantala looking for a sweep. Not yet Ihantala, not yet.
Lovanov controlling from the top position.
Ihantala controlling the position.#T3#
Lovanov lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Lovanov lands a couple of elbows.
Lovanov showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Lovanov trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Lovanov is pushing down on Ihantala's leg trying to pass to half guard. Ihantala is fighting to maintain full guard but Lovanov has managed to sneak the leg through.
Lovanov is pressing down on Ihantala's thigh, looking to free his foot. Ihantala is holding on for now.
Lovanov trying to control the action but Ihantala is working from the bottom.
Lovanov controlling the action here. #T4#
Ihantala has hold of Lovanov's hands but Lovanov slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Lovanov wants to control but Ihantala is keeping him busy.
Lovanov looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Ihantala is trying to get back to full guard.
Lovanov keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Lovanov misses with a takedown attempt - Ihantala sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Tali Ihantala is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Ihantala throws a series of punches but Lovanov moves out of range.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Zahbit Lovanov dominated that second round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! So, we enter the final round. Let's see if either fighter can bring us a finish, or whether we're going to the judges scorecards.#R3##CL#
Lovanov has managed to clinch.
Ihantala tries a body shot but Lovanov blocks it. #BC2#
Ihantala manages to break the clinch.
Ihantala connects with the punch.
Lovanov swings for the body but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala lands with a nice combination. Lovanov backs away looking to recover.#CUT2#It looks like Zahbit Lovanov has been cut.#TD#
Lovanov drives through with a takedown into Ihantala's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
Lovanov won't allow Ihantala to sweep him here.
Ihantala not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Lovanov is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Ihantala can do to turn this around?
Lovanov won't allow Ihantala to sweep him here.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Lovanov from controlling successfully.
Ihantala controls Lovanov momentarily but Lovanov frees himself.
Ihantala lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB##T1#
Ihantala would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard.
Ihantala being controlled here momentarily.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Lovanov controls Ihantala momentarily but Ihantala frees himself.
Ihantala must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Ihantala throws a big elbow that misses.
Lovanov wants to sweep here but Ihantala controlling him for the moment.
Ihantala wants to get up but he can't break Lovanov's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.
Tali Ihantala has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Ihantala engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Ihantala postures up. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Tali Ihantala is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Lovanov takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
It looked like Lovanov wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Ihantala throws a right hand that Lovanov ducks under and follows up with a left that Lovanov also avoids with ease.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Lovanov.
Lovanov connects with a jab.
Ihantala jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Ihantala finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Lovanov works Ihantala's body with a nice hook.
Ihantala throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped #TD#
and Lovanov counters with a shoot takedown. Ihantala fights it but they end up in guard.
Lovanov is standing up over Ihantala. Ihantala looks to escape but Lovanov dives into side control.
Ihantala takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.#REVB#
Lovanov grinds an elbow into Ihantala's temple.
Zahbit Lovanov is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T3#
Lovanov in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Lovanov lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face.
Lovanov controlling the position. #T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Lovanov scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Ihantala to see if he's OK.
Lovanov takes a little break here. Ihantala wants to take advantage but he is being controlled well.
Lovanov scores with a couple of short elbows.
Lovanov is looking to take a break and control but Ihantala is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Ihantala is looking for a sweep.

And that's the end of the fight!
Zahbit Lovanov showed his dominance in that final round.
Well I reckon that's a shut out for Lovanov, 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 Frank Antenori scores the fight 30:27
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 30:27
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Zahbit Lovanov!

Zahbit Lovanov decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

 

Event: DMMA 297 Walton vs Temidare     
Date:   Mar 02, 2024
#R1#
Ihantala fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.#CUT#It looks like Pete Tyler has been cut.
Ihantala lands a head kick. Tyler smiles back at him and beckons him forward.
Tyler lands a slapping body shot.
Ihantala with a jab.
Ihantala takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie.
Tyler lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.#CUT2#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.
Tyler throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Tyler scores with a jab to the jaw.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Tyler throws a push kick but Ihantala slaps the foot to one side.
It appears Ihantala was looking to counter with a kick there.#T1#
Ihantala throws a body kick that misses.
Tyler tries to work over Ihantala's front leg with a kick but Ihantala checks it.
Tyler has done a lot of speed work in the buildup to this fight.
Tyler throws the kick towards the body but Ihantala avoids it.
Ihantala swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Tyler steps into range and unloads a brutal right left combo! Ihantala is out on his feet! Tyler sets himself and nearly takes Ihantala's head off with a straight right, sending him crashing to the mat! Wow, that was nasty... but awesome! Wooo!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:30 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Pete Tyler!
Our winner, Pete Tyler, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.

 

Event: WVT 221: Minoru v Godwin     
Date:   Feb 09, 2024
#R1#
We've got one fighter who appears to only be looking to counter and the other not looking particularly aggressive either, so we could be in for a dull fight.
Ihantala throws a quick inside leg kick.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
A lazy body kick from Ihantala
letting Kersikov counter with a right hand.
Kersikov slips under a jab from Ihantala.
Kersikov looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Ihantala misses with a lunging right hand
and Kersikov counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Ihantala ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Kersikov moves away.
A little feinted left hand from Kersikov on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Ihantala throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Kersikov counters with a lovely straight right hand!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A low kick from Ihantala is predictable there #KD#
and Kersikov counters with a crisp right hand that drops Ihantala! Kersikov lets Ihantala back up to his feet, looking for a finish!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ihantala throws a head kick but Kersikov moves out of range. #T1#
Ihantala misses with a kick to the body
and Kersikov counters with a left to the body.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Ihantala. Kersikov shrugs it off though.
Ihantala throws a leg kick but Kersikov sees it coming and moves out of range.
It appears Kersikov was looking to counter with a kick there.
Ihantala rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Kersikov counters with a nice uppercut.
Kersikov slips under a jab.
Kersikov throws a quick counter kick to the body but Ihantala avoids it.
Ihantala misses with a straight right. #T2#
Ihantala throws a body kick that misses #KD#
and Kersikov counters with a crisp right hand that drops Ihantala! Kersikov lets Ihantala back up to his feet, looking for a finish!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ihantala throws an off balance right hand
and Kersikov counters with a nice body shot.
Ihantala tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
An attempted straight right counter from Kersikov misses the target.
Kersikov goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Ihantala doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Ihantala scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Kersikov doesn't seem bothered though.
Ihantala throws an off balance right hand #KD#
and Kersikov counters with a crisp right hand that drops Ihantala! Kersikov lets Ihantala back up to his feet, looking for a finish!#CUT#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.#T3#
Ihantala throws a lazy right hand but Kersikov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
It looked like Kersikov was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
Ihantala ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Kersikov moves away.
Kersikov takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Kersikov throwing a counter right hand but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Ihantala looks to score with a jab to the body but Kersikov is just out of range.
Kersikov gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Kersikov ducks down to avoid it.
As Ihantala looks to move away, Kersikov throws a big counter combo but Ihantala just gets out of the way.#T4#
Ihantala throws a body kick, spinning off balance
and Kersikov counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Ihantala motions for Kersikov to come forward. Ihantala throws a leg kick but it misses it's target. #KD#
Kersikov cracks Ihantala with a big right hand that sends him crashing to the floor. Kersikov has the opportunity to follow him to the ground but instead he's beckoning Ihantala to stand back up!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Ihantala.
Kersikov thinks about countering with a body kick.
Ihantala throws a sloppy head kick
and Kersikov counters with a nice kick to the body.
Ihantala looks winded!
Kersikov scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Ihantala doesn't seem bothered though.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Andrei Kersikov dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Tali Ihantala's cut.
That's time! Kersikov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
A shot to the liver by Kersikov. Beautiful body shot.
Ihantala misses with a hook
and Kersikov counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Ihantala stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Kersikov.
Ihantala rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Kersikov counters with a crisp right that sends Ihantala to the canvas! Kersikov follows up with punches from the mount and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:35 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Andrei Kersikov!
A relieved looking Andrei Kersikov thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

 

Event: WVT 215: Ihantala v Fleshou     
Date:   Jan 26, 2024
#R1#
Fleshou Jr is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
As Fleshou Jr looks to move away, Ihantala throws a big counter combo but Fleshou Jr just gets out of the way.
Stres Fleshou Jr seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Fleshou Jr swings widly with a right hand
and Ihantala counters with a slapping leg kick.
Fleshou Jr throws a body shot but no joy.
Nice body punch from Fleshou Jr.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Fleshou Jr has been working on his takedowns a lot in the buildup to the fight and we can only assume he's going to look to take this to the mat.#TD2#
Fleshou Jr closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Ihantala's guard.
Fleshou Jr loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Fleshou Jr from controlling successfully.
Ihantala trying to control the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala managing to control the position.
Fleshou Jr throwing strikes from guard but Ihantala blocks nicely. #T1#
Fleshou Jr is looking to work some ground and pound but Ihantala has wrist control.
Ihantala is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Fleshou Jr stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Ihantala swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Fleshou Jr's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Fleshou Jr from controlling successfully.
Fleshou Jr postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Fleshou Jr lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Fleshou Jr stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Ihantala swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Ihantala trying to control the position. #T2##SUB2#
Fleshou Jr thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Fleshou Jr stands up over Ihantala, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Ihantala controlling Fleshou Jr's posture.
Fleshou Jr throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Fleshou Jr wants to control from the top but Ihantala keeps moving.
Fleshou Jr 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.
Fleshou Jr missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Fleshou Jr engaging in some classic timewasting tactics. #T3#
Ihantala avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Fleshou Jr from controlling successfully.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Ihantala keeping full guard, as Fleshou Jr tries to pass.
Ihantala controlling the position.#REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Fleshou Jr misses the shot to the body.
Sloppy strikes from Fleshou Jr. Those never looked like landing.
Fleshou Jr swings away with a body shot that misses
and Ihantala makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Ihantala moves out of range of the strikes.
Ihantala tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Fleshou Jr was well out of range. Poor timing from Ihantala.
Fleshou Jr misses with a left hand
and Ihantala counters with a nice uppercut. #CUT#It looks like Stres Fleshou Jr has been cut.#T4#
Fleshou Jr lands with a nice combination. Ihantala backs away looking to recover.
Fleshou Jr uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Ihantala.
Fleshou Jr lands a slapping body shot.
Fleshou Jr throws an overhand right that lands on Ihantala's shoulder, as Ihantala tries to avoid the shot.
Fleshou Jr jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Fleshou Jr moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Ihantala cracks Fleshou Jr with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
A slapping leg kick lands for Fleshou Jr.
A slow jab from Fleshou Jr misses its intended target.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Fleshou Jr throws an overhand right that lands on Ihantala's shoulder, as Ihantala tries to avoid the shot.
Tali Ihantala is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Ihantala gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Ihantala tries to score with an inside leg kick but telegraphs it and Fleshou Jr is able to avoid easily.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Stres Fleshou Jr dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Stres Fleshou Jr's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Fleshou Jr throws a hook but Ihantala avoids it easily.
Fleshou Jr has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Fleshou Jr throws a lazy head kick
and Ihantala counters with a straight right hand.
Fleshou Jr throws a sloppy head kick and Ihantala moves out of range easily.
Ihantala feinted there with a counter leg kick.
Fleshou Jr throws an overhand right that lands on Ihantala's shoulder, as Ihantala tries to avoid the shot.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Fleshou Jr lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Ihantala has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Ihantala and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Ihantala throws a nice outside leg kick.
Ihantala keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Ihantala stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Ihantala wants it to stay on the feet.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala avoids the body shot from Fleshou Jr.
Stres Fleshou Jr seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Ihantala throws a body kick that misses.
Fleshou Jr lands a jab, followed by a cross and another cross, as Ihantala backs up against the cage.
Nice body punch from Fleshou Jr. #T1#
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Ihantala lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Fleshou Jr has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Fleshou Jr and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Some wild striking there from Fleshou Jr.
Fleshou Jr loads up on a big right hand but Ihantala slips the punch.
Fleshou Jr throws a series of punches but Ihantala avoids them all with ease.
Fleshou Jr bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
A looping hook to the body misses from Fleshou Jr. Ihantala does a little dance to reset his feet.
Fleshou Jr fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Fleshou Jr.
Fleshou Jr misses the body punch
and Ihantala makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
No joy there for Fleshou Jr, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Ihantala feinted there with a counter leg kick.
Fleshou Jr misses with a left hand
and Ihantala counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.#T2#
Fleshou Jr dives in and grabs Ihantala's left leg, looking for a takedown. Ihantala pushes down on Fleshou Jr's head and hops out.
Fleshou Jr throws the kick towards the body but Ihantala avoids it.
Fleshou Jr swings for the body but Ihantala moves out of range.
It appears Ihantala was looking to counter with a kick there.
Fleshou Jr misses with a head kick.
Fleshou Jr on the wrong end of a nice jab.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Ihantala connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Fleshou Jr lands a body shot.
Fleshou Jr dives in for a single leg takedown but Ihantala sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Tali Ihantala has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Stres Fleshou Jr.
Fleshou Jr keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Ihantala uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Fleshou Jr.
Ihantala is looking to counter with a body kick.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Fleshou Jr.
Ihantala quickly followed up with a counter body kick but doesn't connect.#T3#
Ihantala checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
A quick step to the side and Ihantala tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.#KD#
Ihantala sends Fleshou Jr crashing to the mat with a devastating uppercut! Ihantala is motioning to the referee to let Fleshou Jr up. He wants to try and finish this one on the feet!#ROC#Fleshou Jr is rocked!#CUT#That has opened up Stres Fleshou Jr's cut even more.
Ihantala weaves into range and cracks Fleshou Jr right on the temple with a beautiful overhand right! Fleshou Jr goes down! He's out cold! Wow, what a beautiful knockout! Ihantala is strutting round the canvas like a movie star as the camera bulbs flash frantically.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:16 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tali Ihantala!
During a confident post fight interview, Tali Ihantala thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

 

Event: WVT 206: Torvik v Qiang     
Date:   Jan 05, 2024
#R1#
Ihantala throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range.
We've been informed that Tharrier has been sparring a lot of Muay Thai in the buildup to this fight so let's see if that has an impact on the result.
Ihantala misses with a few strikes there.
Tharrier blocks a jab.
Ihantala changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
Ihantala throws a nice looking combination but Tharrier bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Tharrier throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala counters with a big head kick but Tharrier shrugs it off.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Ihantala lands with a cross.
Ihantala lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.#T1#
Ihantala swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Tharrier.
Ihantala tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.#KD2#
Oooooh!!! Tharrier has knocked Ihantala down with a huge combo! Tharrier steps away and waves a wobbly Ihantala back to his feet! This one might not go much longer!#ROC2#Ihantala is rocked!#CUT2#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.
A decent looking body kick lands there for Ihantala.
Tharrier scoring well with a low kick there.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Tharrier misses with a hook
and he gets countered with a snapping leg kick.
Ihantala has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
Tharrier takes a shot to the body in his stride. #T2#
Ihantala fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Tharrier manages to avoid it.
Tharrier looks like he wanted to counter with a high kick but didn't throw it.
Tharrier blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
Nice jab there from Ihantala.
Tharrier moves out of range as Ihantala strikes.
Ihantala misses the shot to the body.
Tharrier appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Tharrier throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala counters with an outside leg kick.
Tharrier is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
Tharrier throws a head kick that misses. #T3#
Ihantala throws a body kick that digs right into the meat.
Nice body kick from Ihantala.
Ihantala scores with a jab. Tharrier acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Tharrier ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Ihantala moves away.
Ihantala cracks Tharrier with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Ihantala scores with a spinning back kick!
Tharrier looks winded!
Tharrier lands a body shot. #T4#
Tharrier throws a looping overhand right but Ihantala ducks down to avoid it.
Ihantala uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Tharrier has time to react.#CUT#It looks like Thom Tharrier has been cut.
Tharrier uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Ihantala.
Tharrier connects with a looping right hand.
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!
Ihantala checks a leg kick.
Tharrier changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Tharrier takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?
Ihantala lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that round.
Both fighters have cut men working on them during the interval.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Tharrier throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Ihantala ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Tharrier moves away.
A big left from Tharrier misses.
Ihantala appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
Tharrier tries to land a front kick but Ihantala steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Ihantala looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala looks to land a body kick but Tharrier moved away.
Ihantala is using his reach advantage well here, landing the more effective single shots from range.
Nice shot lands for Ihantala.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Tharrier.#T1#
Ihantala changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Ihantala misses with an attempted mid kick.
Tharrier looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Tharrier throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Ihantala pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Both these guys seem content to just stand up and trade with each other but Tharrier might want to think about changing up his gameplan a bit because over the course of the fight, Ihantala has got the better of the exchanges.
Tharrier ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Tharrier throws a lazy uppercut
and Ihantala counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Tharrier throws a sloppy head kick and Ihantala moves out of range easily. #T2#
Ihantala looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Tharrier misses with a lunging right hand
and Ihantala counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Ihantala clobbers Tharrier with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
The fighters circle momentarily. Ihantala darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Tharrier misses with a looping left.
Ihantala is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Tharrier can do to turn this around?
Tharrier tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ihantala was well out of range. Poor timing from Tharrier.
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!
Ihantala misses with a kick to the body. #T3#
Tharrier drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Tharrier misses with a hook
and Ihantala counters with a straight right hand.
Tharrier is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Ihantala. #CL#
Ihantala fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Tharrier, pushing him back against the cage.
Tharrier struggles to land a body shot inside as Ihantala controls his hands.
A short left from Ihantala.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Ihantala.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Ihantala creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Tharrier misses with a short punch on the inside. #BC#
Ihantala pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Tharrier scores with a sloppy right hand. Ihantala should have avoided that one.
Tali Ihantala is winning the standup battle so far.#T4#
Ihantala tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Tharrier was well out of range. Poor timing from Ihantala.
A little jabbing left from Tharrier on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Ihantala 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.
Tharrier throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ihantala with a nice cross.
Tharrier throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Ihantala takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Ihantala lands with a straight right. Tharrier didn't see that one coming.
Tharrier throws a front kick that sends Ihantala stumbling back into the cage.
Ihantala is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that second round.
Both fighters have cut men working on them during the interval.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!#R3#
Ihantala misses with a two punch combination.
Tharrier appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Tharrier avoids a kick to the body.
Tharrier looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Tharrier throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Ihantala sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Tharrier with a nice cross.
Tharrier misses with a straight right.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala lands a slapping body shot.
Tharrier throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala finishes the little exchange by landing a big kick to the body.
Ihantala just misses with a punch to the body.
Tharrier takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.#T1#
Tharrier throws a sloppy head kick
and Ihantala counters with a nice body kick.
Ihantala lands a nice shot that snaps Tharrier's head back.
The fighters circle momentarily. Ihantala darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Ihantala delivers a nice body kick.
A head kick misses from Ihantala. #CL#
Ihantala closes the distance and clinches.
Ihantala lands a body shot in the clinch. #T2#
Ihantala stalls.
Tharrier misses with the head strike.
Tharrier struggles to land a body shot inside as Ihantala controls his hands.
Ihantala blocks an uppercut.
Ihantala blocks an uppercut. #BC#
Ihantala breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Ihantala tests Tharrier's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Tharrier swings away with a body shot that misses
and Ihantala counters with a series of strikes. Tharrier will be more careful next time no doubt.
Tharrier has developed a nice purple lump on his ribcage, as a result of some heavy body kicks from Ihantala.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Tharrier looks to land a body kick but Ihantala moved away.
Ihantala was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Tharrier rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Ihantala counters with a slapping leg kick.
Ihantala connects with a high kick. #T3#
A jab lands there for Ihantala.
Tharrier throws a right hand that misses
enabling Ihantala to counter with a crisp jab.
Tharrier fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Ihantala manages to avoid it.#KD#
Ihantala lands a big uppercut and Tharrier crumbles to the floor! The ref thinks about stopping the fight but Tharrier looks OK. Ihantala waves Tharrier back to his feet!#ROC#Tharrier is rocked!
Ihantala weaves into range and cracks Tharrier right on the temple with a beautiful overhand right! Tharrier goes down! He's out cold! Wow, what a beautiful knockout! Ihantala is strutting round the canvas like a movie star as the camera bulbs flash frantically.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:48 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala thanked the fans post fight for their support.

 

Event: WVT 198: Ihantala v Primo     
Date:   Dec 16, 2023
#R1#
Ihantala misses with an uppercut. Primo saw that one coming.
Primo connects with the punch.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Primo lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Ihantala has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Ihantala and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
A shot to the body from Primo misses
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Primo will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away.
Primo throws a head kick that misses.
Hero Primo seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Ihantala misses with a left hand
and Primo counters with a lovely straight right hand!
An inside leg kick lands from Primo.
A jab from Primo finds it's way through Ihantala's defenses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nice body kick there by Primo.
Primo misses with a kick to the body.
Primo attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
Ihantala walks forward, straight into a front kick from Primo.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Primo waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Ihantala.#T1#
Primo thumps Ihantala with a low kick.
Ihantala walks into a stiff left hand from Primo.
Ihantala takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Primo takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Primo pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Ihantala is looking to counter with a body kick.
Primo is using his reach advantage to land shots from outside his opponent's range.
A nice inside leg kick there by Primo. That's going to slow Ihantala down.
Primo sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.
We've been informed that Primo has been sparring a lot of Muay Thai in the buildup to this fight so let's see if that has an impact on the result.
Ihantala ducks right into an uppercut from Primo.
Primo walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Ihantala checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
Ihantala was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Ihantala explodes with a nice body kick and back out of range. Nice work.
Ihantala lands with a straight right. Primo didn't see that one coming.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala throws a jab when Primo was well out of range.#T2#
A swing and a miss from Ihantala.
Primo moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Primo walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Ihantala checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
Primo misses with a wild body shot.
Primo catches Ihantala with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Primo.
Ihantala steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Primo.
Primo misses with a wild body shot.
Ihantala looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Primo throws a body shot but no joy.
Ihantala was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Ihantala throws a solid leg kick but Primo takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Ihantala.
Primo only half commits to the counter leg kick.
Primo throws out a loose jab but Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid it.
Ihantala throwing a counter right hand but Primo manages to avoid it.
Primo moves into range and connects with a jab. #T3#
Primo misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Primo tries to land a body kick
and he gets countered with a snapping leg kick.
Primo connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Primo cracks a nice hook into Ihantala's ribs.
Primo scores with a hook to the body. Ihantala takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Primo is looking to score with low kicks.
An attempted straight right counter from Ihantala misses the target.
Primo throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
Primo throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with an inside leg kick.
Primo throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala counters with a nice uppercut.
Good standup being displayed there by Primo as he connects with a hook.
A slow jab from Ihantala misses its intended target.
Primo throws a leg kick but Ihantala sees it coming and moves out of range.
It looked like Ihantala was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.#T4#
Primo throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Primo is landing a lot of head punches in this opening round! Ihantala had better start moving his head a bit unless he wants his face to turn into mush.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Primo lands a glancing blow to the side of Ihantala's head.
Ihantala walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Primo throws a poor cross that misses
and Ihantala counters with a nice kick to the body.
Ihantala moves away from the strike by Primo.
Primo misses with a low kick.
Primo throws a low kick but Ihantala moves out of range easily.
Primo looks to land a body kick but Ihantala moved away.
Primo looks to land a right hand but Ihantala moved out of range.
A counter left hand to the body from Ihantala misses its target.
Primo throws a sloppy head kick and Ihantala moves out of range easily.
Ihantala looks to throw the jab but Primo is out of range.
Primo thows a left - swing and a miss!
A quick step to the side and Ihantala tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Primo throws a low kick but it's checked well by Ihantala.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Hero Primo dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Primo bobs and weaves and then throws a good body kick.
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Primo ducks down to avoid it.
Primo misses with a wild body shot.
Primo looks for the body kick but Ihantala saw that one coming.
Ihantala is looking to counter punch.
Primo lands with an overhand left.
A jab from Ihantala misses.
Primo throws a body kick that misses
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Hero Primo seems to be getting the better of the standup.
A telegraphed right hand from Primo misses the target.
Primo misses the jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Primo tries a head kick but it misses.
Primo is a painfully thin specimen of a man. You do wonder whether a good body kick would snap him clean in two.
Primo looks to land a left hand but Ihantala moved out of range nicely.
Primo lands the left hand.
Primo jabs at Ihantala's body.#T1#
Primo misses with a low kick.
A lazy body kick from Primo
and Ihantala counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Good work by Ihantala as he checks the leg kick.
Primo throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Primo throws out a powerful jab.
Primo has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.
Ihantala ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Primo moves away.#CL#
Ihantala gets a clinch.
Primo with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Ihantala lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Primo backwards.
Primo throws an elbow but it's blocked.
Ihantala blocks a punch to the side of the head.
I was talking to Ihantala's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.#BC#
Ihantala breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Ihantala missing with a left hand there. Primo was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Primo misses with an uppercut
and Ihantala counters with a stiff right hand. #T2#
Primo's corner calls for a 1-2. Primo obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ihantala on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Primo misses with a right hand
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand. #ROC#Primo is rocked!
Primo throws a leg kick which misses Ihantala's front leg but catches the back leg as Ihantala tries to avoid it.
Primo is still on wobbly legs! Can Ihantala finish him?
Primo keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Ihantala.
Primo seems to have recovered his senses.
Primo misses with a leg kick #KD#
and Ihantala counters with a nice right hand that sends Primo toppling to the canvas! Primo scrambles and gets back to his feet - can Ihantala finish him?!
Primo lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Primo throws a leg kick but Ihantala moved away.
A low kick from Primo misses
and Ihantala counters with a series of strikes that practically lifts Primo off his feet! He tumbles backwards, his head bouncing off the mat - Ihantala follows up with more strikes before the ref can step in but Primo was out before he hit the floor.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:50 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
After winning the bout, Tali Ihantala thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.
Hero Primo was interviewed post fight and said 'I’ll Train Hard & Win Next Fight'.

 

Event: WVT 185: Ihantala v Kok 2     
Date:   Nov 17, 2023
#R1#
Kok throws a body kick, spinning off balance
and Ihantala counters with a leg kick that reverborates around the arena.
Kok goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Kok throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
An attempted straight right counter from Ihantala misses the target.
Kok throws a wild body kick that Ihantala sees coming a mile off.
Kok scores with a crisp jab that stopped Ihantala in his tracks.
Nice body kick there by Kok.
Kok misses the body punch
and Ihantala counters with a leg kick.
Ihantala scoring well with a low kick there.
Kok takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kok throws a lazy body kick
and Ihantala counters with a slapping leg kick.
Kok throws a body kick that misses.
Kok misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
Kok pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.#T1#
Kok looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Ihantala throws a leg kick but Kok checks it.
A big left from Kok misses.
Ihantala throws a quick inside leg kick.
Kok tries to land a body kick
and Ihantala counters with a nice body kick.
Ihantala avoids the body shot from Kok.
Ihantala walks forward, straight into a front kick from Kok.
Ihantala scores with a body shot.
Ihantala tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Kok misses with a straight right. #CL2#
Ihantala gets tackled into the cage by Kok. Kok maintains the clinch.
Ihantala tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Kok misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Ihantala has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.#T2#
Ihantala blocks a body shot from Kok.
Ihantala misses with a hook to the ribs.
Ihantala lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Kok lands a right hand that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala lands a hook to the side of the head.
Ihantala takes a shot to the head.
Ihantala displaying some good clinch control by pressing Kok up against the cage.
Ihantala doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Kok tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Ihantala's elbow.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Ihantala.
Kok goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Kok misses with a punch on the inside.
Kok goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Ihantala's corner are urging him to control the action in the clinch for a moment, rather than mount any serious offense. I'm sure the crowd appreciate those instructions... not.#BC#
Ihantala breaks from the clinch.
Kok throws a shot from downtown. Ihantala moves away and avoids it.
It looked like Ihantala wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.#T3#
Kok keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Ihantala staying out of range there.
Kok misses with an attempted mid kick.
Ihantala shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Thud! ouch! good body kick from Kok - that will leave a mark!
Kok looks to land a body kick but Ihantala moved away.
A little feinted left hand from Ihantala on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Ihantala takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
A jab from Ihantala finds it's way through Kok's defenses.
Kok throws a hook to the side of Ihantala's head but Ihantala sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Kok throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Kok looks to throw a body kick
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand.
Kok uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Ihantala. #T4#
A jab from Ihantala misses.
Kok stuns Ihantala with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Ihantala uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Kok.
Kok bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Ihantala's head.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Kok throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Ihantala throws a leg kick
and Kok counters with a nice body shot.
Chew Kok seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Kok misses with a straight right.
Ihantala swings away with a leg kick that misses.
A cross from Kok lands.
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Chew Kok dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Kok throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Kok looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Ihantala staying out of range there.
Kok looks to clinch
and Ihantala counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Ihantala lands a jab.
Kok is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Kok misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kok swings widly with a right hand
and he gets countered with a snapping leg kick.
Kok misses with a kick to the body.
Ihantala lands with a hook. Kok tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Ihantala moves out of range of the body kick from Kok. #T1#
Kok scores with a kick to the body.
Ihantala lands a really nice looking cross but Kok seems unphased.
Kok thuds a left hand into Ihantala's body.
Kok tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ihantala was well out of range. Poor timing from Kok.
As Kok backs away, Ihantala returns fire with a leg kick that just misses.
Kok fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Kok misses with an uppercut
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Ihantala throws an overhand right that lands on Kok's shoulder, as Kok tries to avoid the shot.
Kok looks to throw a body kick
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand.
Ihantala throws a hook to the side of Kok's head but Kok sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
A good leg kick by Ihantala.
Kok uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Ihantala.
Kok throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.#T2#
Kok misses with an attempted mid kick.
Ihantala blocks a jab.
Kok throws a hook but Ihantala blocks it.
Kok swings widly with a right hand
and Ihantala counters with a body kick.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Kok swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Kok looks to land a body kick but Ihantala moved away.
Ihantala connects with a body shot that sends Kok's belly button to the back.
Kok looks for the body kick but Ihantala saw that one coming.
Ihantala swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Ihantala is using his reach advantage well here, landing the more effective single shots from range.
Kok misses with a hook.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut. #T3#
Kok connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.#CL2#
Kok moves into the clinch successfully.
Kok digs a right hand underneath Ihantala's ribcage. Ihantala let out a lung full of air as it connected.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Kok.
Kok tries to throw a body punch but Ihantala avoids it by throwing Kok back against the cage.
Kok struggles to land a body shot inside as Ihantala controls his hands.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
A short body shot lands from Ihantala as the two fighters clinch.
Ihantala lands a left hand that snaps the head of Kok backwards.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Ihantala is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Kok is keeping busy.
Ihantala has a couple of punches blocked by Kok.
A hook to the body from Kok.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Ihantala tries to circle away but Kok has him pinned against the cage.
Ihantala misses with a body punch.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala. #T4#
Kok blocking some punches.
Kok working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Kok lands a body shot in the clinch.
Ihantala's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Kok creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Kok has been looking to improve his clinch game in recent weeks. Ihantala seems to have the measure of him in the clinch so far, so let's see if Kok can turn it around.
Kok misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Kok's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.
Kok goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Kok lands a body shot in the clinch.
Chew Kok seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
Kok doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Kok misses with a body punch.
Kok scores with a shoulder strike.
A right hand to the body from Kok.
Kok lands a right hand that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards.
Tali Ihantala has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Kok scores with a shoulder strike.
Ihantala prevents a body shot from Kok.
Kok misses with a punch to the body.
A short body shot lands from Ihantala as the two fighters clinch.
Nice body punch from Kok - that landed with a thud.
Ihantala throws a punch but it's blocked by Kok.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Chew Kok will probably get the nod - 10:9.
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. This is the final round!#R3#
Kok pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Kok digs a good body shot into Ihantala's ribs.
Ihantala uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Kok.
A big left from Kok misses.
Kok throws a body kick that misses.
Ihantala thinks about countering with a head kick.
Ihantala circles away from the clinch attempt.
Ihantala throws a quick counter kick to the body but Kok avoids it.
Kok throws a hook but Ihantala avoids it easily.
Ihantala is looking to counter punch.
Kok throws the kick towards the body but Ihantala avoids it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kok scores with a jab to the head.
Ihantala avoids a kick to the body.
Ihantala keeps the fight on the outside.
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.#T1#
Kok on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Kok throws a lazy right hand but Ihantala sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
The fighters circling - Kok throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Kok lands a nice looking body kick.
Ihantala uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Kok.
Kok throws the kick towards the body but Ihantala avoids it.
Kok throws a body kick, spinning off balance
and Ihantala counters with a nice uppercut.
Kok moves into range and connects with a jab.
Ihantala takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Ihantala gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Kok avoids a lazy jab quite easily.#T2#
Ihantala moves away from the strike by Kok.
Kok scores with the left hand. Ihantala knows he should have avoided that one.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Kok lunges at Ihantala with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Ihantala's hand.
Kok thuds his shin into the meat of Ihantala's side.
A lazy body kick from Kok
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
Kok lands a nice shot to the body.
Kok moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Kok stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Chew Kok seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Kok lands a vicious shot with the stealth of a sniper and the strength of a viper. Are vipers that strong? I can think of lots of things that are stronger than a viper - not many rhyme with sniper though.
Kok lands a front kick.#T3#
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Kok, as that shot connected.
Kok throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
Kok tries to close the distance and clinch but Ihantala swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Kok lands with a nice body kick.
Chew Kok is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Kok scores with a jab to the body.
Kok thuds his shin into the meat of Ihantala's side.
Kok lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Ihantala at a distance.
Ihantala takes a kick to the body and keeps moving.
Ihantala takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Nice shot lands for Kok.#T4#
Kok throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
Ihantala will be looking to protect his midsection after taking some solid kicks to the body.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Thud! ouch! good body kick from Kok - that will leave a mark!
Kok fakes the leg kick and cracks Ihantala in the body.
Kok throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Ihantala sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Ihantala needs to keep his hands up - Kok had a free shot at his head there.
Kok scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Ihantala doesn't seem bothered though.
A decent looking body kick lands there for Kok.
Ihantala avoids the body shot from Kok.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Kok.
A slapping body kick lands there for Ihantala.
Ihantala tries to score with a low kick but Kok moves his leg out of the way.

And that's the end of the fight!
Chew Kok comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Kok 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 Percy O'Donnell scores the fight 27:30
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 27:30
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Chew Kok!

A very excited looking Chew Kok made sure he remembered to thank all the fans both in the arena and on the internet. He said all the coolest people spend all day on MMA websites, which got a big reaction.

 

Event: WVT 181: Matikainen v Hussein     
Date:   Nov 04, 2023
#R1#
A big right from Ihantala misses.
Ihantala uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Hightower has time to react.
Hightower misses with a combination
and Ihantala counters with a slapping leg kick.
Hightower lands a nice leg kick that just misses Ihantala's sensitive parts.
Ihantala takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala throws the kick towards the body but Hightower avoids it.
Ihantala lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.#T1#
I'm just looking down at my notes here and I see that.... oh! Ihantala has cracked Hightower with a big right, followed by a left! He's out on his feet! Ihantala lands another huge swinging hook and Hightower tumbles to the canvas! The ref dives in to save Hightower, before Ihantala can land any more shots!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:08 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punches). Tali Ihantala!
After winning the bout, Tali Ihantala thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: WVT 171: Vitali v Creed     
Date:   Oct 14, 2023
#R1#
Torvik throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Torvik misses with a hook
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#CUT#It looks like Sven Torvik has been cut.
Ihantala slips under a jab from Torvik.
Ihantala throws a leg kick that is checked
and Torvik connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Ihantala gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Torvik misses with a straight right.
Torvik connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Torvik lands with a straight right. Ihantala didn't see that one coming.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Torvik.
Torvik swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Ihantala throws a counter high kick but Torvik was just alert enough to avoid it.
Torvik takes a swing at Ihantala's ribcage but misses.
Torvik swings and misses with a hook to the body. #T1#
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Torvik.
Ihantala thinks about countering with a body kick.
Sven Torvik seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Ihantala lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Thud! ouch! good body kick from Ihantala - that will leave a mark!
Torvik takes a swing at Ihantala's ribcage but misses.
Ihantala was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Torvik stuns Ihantala with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Ihantala throws a low kick but Torvik avoids it.
Torvik looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Torvik throws a right hand that misses
and Ihantala finishes the little exchange by landing a big kick to the body.
Torvik has been spending a lot of time sparring his boxing in the run up to the fight, trying to sharpen up those hands and look for a knockout.
Torvik keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Torvik connects with a jab.
Torvik ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Ihantala moves away.
Torvik misses with a right hand
and Ihantala makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Ihantala has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.#T2#
Torvik digs a good hook to Ihantala's body.
Torvik scores with a jab to the body.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Torvik ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
A swing and a miss from Torvik.
Torvik is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Torvik misses with the combination.
Ihantala avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Torvik misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
Ihantala was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Torvik jabbing away but nothing is landing. #T3#
Sloppy strikes from Ihantala. Those never looked like landing.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Torvik! But no joy.
Torvik scores with a hook.
Ihantala lands a really nice looking cross but Torvik seems unphased.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Torvik bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Torvik misses the jab.
Ihantala throwing a counter right hand but Torvik manages to avoid it.
Torvik connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Ihantala momentarily.
Torvik throws a shot from downtown. Ihantala moves away and avoids it.
It appears Ihantala was looking to counter with a kick there.
Ihantala misses with a kick to the body.
Torvik misses with a body punch
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#T4#
Ihantala moves out of range as Torvik strikes.
Ihantala throws a leg kick but Torvik moved away.
Torvik misses with a looping left.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Torvik looks to throw the jab but Ihantala is out of range.
Torvik throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Torvik just manages to avoid a counter high kick fromIhantala.
A lazy left from Torvik finds it's target.
Torvik swings for the body but Ihantala moves out of range.
As Torvik looks to move away, Ihantala throws a big counter combo but Torvik just gets out of the way.
Ihantala scores with a jab. Torvik acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Torvik misses with a straight left.
Ihantala scoring well with a low kick there.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Sven Torvik dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Sven Torvik's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Torvik throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala counters with a right hand to the body.
Torvik connects with a body shot.
Ihantala walks into a straight right hand from Torvik.
The crowd cheers as Torvik lands an impressive looking overhand right. Ihantala doesn't seem phased though.
Ihantala slips a jab from Torvik.
The fighters circling - Ihantala throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Torvik throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Torvik throws a hook but Ihantala blocks it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala jabs at Torvik's body.
Torvik swings widly with a right hand
and Ihantala counters with a nice body shot.
Torvik looks to throw the jab but Ihantala is out of range. #T1#
Torvik looks to throw the jab but Ihantala is out of range.
Torvik slips a jab from Ihantala.
Torvik pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Torvik throws a hook to the side of Ihantala's head but Ihantala sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Ihantala is looking to counter punch.
Torvik thows a left - swing and a miss!
Ihantala wants to slow Torvik down by chopping away at his legs.
Ihantala uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Torvik has time to react.
Ihantala throws a head kick that looked like it stung.
Torvik throws a hook but Ihantala avoids it easily.
Torvik lands the left hand.
Ihantala 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.#T2#
Torvik moves out of range of the body kick from Ihantala.
Ihantala ducks right into an uppercut from Torvik.
Good exchange - Torvik coming out on top.
Ihantala throws a lazy uppercut
enabling Torvik to counter with a crisp jab.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ihantala pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Torvik has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Ihantala takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
This entire fight has taken place on the feet so far and you wonder whether Ihantala might be better served trying to take this one to the ground because he's losing the standup battle so far.
Nice uppercut lands for Torvik. That snapped Ihantala's head back.
Torvik connects with a nice looking jab.
Torvik dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Torvik throws a hook but Ihantala blocks it.#T3#
Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Torvik.
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.#KD2#
Torvik drops Ihantala with a hook right on the temple. He thinks about going to the ground but Ihantala looks back up at him and smiles so Torvik waves him back to his feet - he obviously thinks he can knock him out after that shot landed. #ROC2#Ihantala is rocked!
Torvik cracks Ihantala with a nasty uppercut that draws ooohs from the crowd and sends Ihantala tumbling backwards onto the mat. He tries to recover but Torvik pounces and lands a hail of unanswered strikes that forces the referee to step in to end the fight! Ihantala is not happy but he gave the referee no choice!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:19 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Sven Torvik!
Sven Torvik spent the whole post fight interview bigging himself up. It didn't go down that well with the fans after a while as they thought it was a bit arrogant.

 

Event: WVT 162: Anderson v Ihantala     
Date:   Sep 23, 2023
#R1#
Ihantala throws a poor cross that misses
and Anderson counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Ihantala throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Anderson thinks about countering with a body kick.
Anderson throws a hook but Ihantala avoids it easily.
Anderson throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Ihantala.
Ihantala slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.#CUT2#It looks like Noah Anderson has been cut.
Ihantala fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Anderson.
A clash of legs there as Anderson blocks the low kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Ihantala misses with a leg kick.
Anderson throws a quick counter kick to the body but Ihantala avoids it.
Anderson misses with a wild body shot.
Ihantala tries a quick counter leg kick but Anderson is wise to it.#T1#
Ihantala moves out of range of the body kick from Anderson.
Anderson misses with a low kick.
Ihantala misses with a looping right.
Anderson throws the left hand but Ihantala avoids the punch easily.
Anderson tries to land a body kick
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Anderson moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Anderson misses with an uppercut
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Ihantala thinks about the counter body kick.#T2##CL2#
Ihantala moves into the clinch successfully.
The pace slowing considerably in the clinch, as Ihantala takes a break from that fighting nonsense to think about the finer things in life.
Anderson blocks a couple of punches on the inside. #BC2#
Ihantala breaks the clinch.
Ihantala throws a hook but Anderson blocks it.
An attempted straight right counter from Anderson misses the target.
Ihantala avoids the head kick by Anderson.
Anderson bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ihantala misses with a straight right.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Anderson throws a push kick but Ihantala slaps the foot to one side.
Ihantala is clearly looking to counter with head kicks.#T3#
Anderson uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Ihantala.
Anderson throwing a counter right hand but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Ihantala looks to land a left hand but Anderson moved out of range nicely.
Ihantala shapes like he's going to throw a leg kick but settles back down.
Ihantala moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Anderson misses with a straight right.
Ihantala throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Anderson misses with a left hand
and Ihantala counters with a slapping leg kick.
Anderson walks forward, straight into a front kick from Ihantala.#T4#
Ihantala throws a body kick that misses.
Ihantala lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
A jab from Anderson misses.
Ihantala uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Anderson.
Ihantala is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Anderson throws out the jab.
Ihantala lands a nice leg kick that just misses Anderson's sensitive parts.
A nice leg kick lands there from Anderson.
Anderson throws out a loose jab but Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid it.
Ihantala thinks about the counter body kick.
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Anderson ducks down to avoid it.
Anderson throws a counter high kick but Ihantala was just alert enough to avoid it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Tali Ihantala will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Noah Anderson's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Anderson misses with an uppercut.
A little jabbing left from Ihantala on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Ihantala with a jab.
Ihantala is looking to land body kicks.
A jab from Anderson misses.
Ihantala connects with the punch.
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A jab from Anderson misses.
Ihantala throws a body shot but no joy.
Anderson throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Ihantala sees it coming and avoids it easily.
And Ihantala responds with a good body kick, but Anderson manages to step out the way in time.#T1#
Ihantala lands a nice shot to the body.
Anderson throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Ihantala sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Anderson takes a swing at Ihantala's ribcage but misses.
Ihantala looks to score with a jab to the body but Anderson is just out of range.
Anderson is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Ihantala just misses with a punch to the body.
Ihantala slips under a jab.
Anderson throws a hook but Ihantala blocks it.
Anderson slips under a jab from Ihantala.#CL2#
Anderson gets tackled into the cage by Ihantala. Ihantala maintains the clinch. #T2#
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Anderson's elbow.
Anderson blocks a body shot from Ihantala.
Ihantala digs a right hand into Anderson's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Anderson's gas tank.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Anderson. #BC#
Anderson's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
A jab lands there for Ihantala.
Anderson avoids the head kick by Ihantala.
Anderson was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Ihantala jabs Anderson right on the nose. Anderson blinks but takes it well.
Ihantala throws a head kick but Anderson moves out of range.
Noah Anderson seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Anderson.#T3#
Ihantala avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Ihantala looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Tali Ihantala seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Ihantala is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
Anderson ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Ihantala moves away.
Ihantala misses with a low kick.
Anderson throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Anderson is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Ihantala.
Anderson gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.#CUT2#Noah Anderson's cut is getting worse.
Anderson misses with an uppercut.
Despite the aggression on Ihantala's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.#T4#
A jab from Ihantala misses.
Anderson tried to counter with a leg kick but Ihantala avoided it.
Anderson is looking to land body kicks.
Anderson swings away with a body shot that misses
and Ihantala makes the exchange count by landing a cracking kick to the body. Anderson really felt that one!
Anderson connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Ihantala throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Anderson is looking to counter punch.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Ihantala takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Anderson throws a leg kick that is checked
and Ihantala counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Noah Anderson's cut.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!#R3#
Anderson catches Ihantala with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Noah Anderson has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Anderson misses with a left hand
and Anderson takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #CL2#
Ihantala takes the fight into the clinch. #BC2#
Ihantala escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Anderson throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Ihantala on the side of the head.
Anderson pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Ihantala flicks out a counter leg kick but Anderson steps away.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A head kick by Ihantala misses
and Anderson counters with a nice kick to the body.
Ihantala sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.
A jab from Anderson does it's job there.
Ihantala takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.#T1#
Anderson misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Anderson throws a wild body kick that Ihantala sees coming a mile off.
A little jabbing left from Ihantala on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Anderson throws a half hearted mid kick.
Ihantala blocks a head kick by Anderson.
Anderson works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Anderson misses with a body kick.
Anderson throws out a loose jab but Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid it. #T2#
Anderson waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Ihantala.
Anderson ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Ihantala moves away.
Ihantala feints a counter leg kick.
A left lands for Ihantala.#CUT2#Noah Anderson's cut is bleeding quite badly. He's got to try and protect it.
Anderson thuds his right hand into Ihantala's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Anderson pulls out of a head kick attempt.
It seemed like Ihantala was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Ihantala cracks Anderson with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Anderson jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Ihantala counters with a body kick.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Ihantala. Anderson shrugs it off though. #T3#
Ihantala connects with a nice looking jab. #CUT2#Jeez, Noah Anderson's cut is really nasty now. The referee must be thinking about getting that checked.
Anderson uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Ihantala takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Ihantala thows a left - swing and a miss!
Anderson half committed to a counter leg kick.
Anderson takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Ihantala has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Anderson scores with a nice strike.
Anderson misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a leg kick that is checked
and Anderson connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#T4#
Ihantala throws the left hand but Anderson avoids the punch easily.
Ihantala throws a predictable looking body shot
and Anderson counters with a crisp right that sends Ihantala to the canvas! Anderson follows up with punches from the mount and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:16 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Noah Anderson!
An out of breath Noah Anderson thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: WVT 155: Ihantala v Biscuit     
Date:   Sep 09, 2023
#R1#
Oliva with the inside leg kick.
Oliva slips under a jab from Ihantala.
Oliva throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with an outside leg kick.
Oliva moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Ihantala connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Oliva is looking to chop away at Ihantala's legs.
Biscuit Oliva seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Oliva buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Oliva scoring well with a low kick there.
Oliva takes one on the button.
A lazy body kick from Oliva
and Ihantala counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Oliva looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Oliva throws a body kick that misses
and Ihantala counters with a stiff right hand.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Oliva lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Ihantala has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Ihantala and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
It appears Ihantala was looking to counter with a kick there.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala scores with a shot to the body.
Oliva is looking to slow Ihantala down with leg kicks.
Oliva throws a leg kick but Ihantala sees it coming and checks it nicely. #T1#
Ihantala paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Ihantala misses with a body kick.
Oliva with a nice calf kick.
Tali Ihantala is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Oliva tries to score with a low kick but Ihantala moves his leg out of the way.
Oliva misses with a low kick.
It appears Ihantala was looking to counter with a kick there.
Oliva is looking to score with low kicks.
Oliva thows a leg kick but Ihantala checks it
and Ihantala counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Ihantala checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Ihantala throwing a counter right hand but Oliva manages to avoid it.
Oliva thows a leg kick but Ihantala checks it
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Oliva throws a nice inside leg kick.
A jab from Ihantala misses.
Oliva throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Ihantala fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.#T2#
Oliva tries a low kick but Ihantala avoids it.
Ihantala thinks about countering with a body kick.
Oliva avoids the head kick by Ihantala.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Oliva looks to throw a body kick
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Oliva takes a head kick and keeps coming. #CUT#It looks like Biscuit Oliva has been cut.
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Oliva scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Ihantala takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Oliva buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Ihantala misses with a body shot.
Oliva lands a leg kick that knocks Ihantala off balance momentarily.
Oliva with a nice calf kick.
Oliva ducks under a wild hook from Ihantala.
Oliva throws a solid leg kick but Ihantala takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Oliva.#T3#
Oliva attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
Oliva throws a leg kick that is checked
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand.
Oliva lands with a thumping leg kick.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Oliva. Ihantala shrugs it off though.
Oliva misses with a low kick.
Ihantala seem to be loading up, looking for a big counter.
Ihantala's legs have taken a beating and he's really slowing down as a result.
Oliva darts in looking for a takedown but Ihantala gets double underhooks and turns Oliva into the cage.
Oliva tries to work over Ihantala's front leg with a kick but Ihantala checks it.
Oliva motions for Ihantala to come forward. Oliva throws a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Oliva throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with a stiff right hand.
It looks like Ihantala has been trying to sharpen up his punching technique, as it looks crisper than last time we saw him.
A leg kick checked by Ihantala.
Oliva connects with a solid leg kick.
Oliva throws a leg kick but Ihantala sees it coming and moves out of range.
Oliva ducks under a wild hook from Ihantala.#T4#
Oliva tries to clinch
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Oliva throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with an outside leg kick.
Oliva attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
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!
Oliva misses with a body kick.
Ihantala checks a low kick from Oliva.
A little feinted left hand from Ihantala on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
A low kick from Oliva is predictable there
and Ihantala counters with a straight right hand.
Oliva throws a leg kick that is checked
and Oliva takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Oliva fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Ihantala is out of range.
Crunch! Ihantala slams his shin into Oliva's torso.
Oliva scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Oliva throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Oliva misses with a low kick.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Biscuit Oliva's cut.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Oliva lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Ihantala is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Ihantala 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.
Oliva throws a front kick aimed at Ihantala's knee but Ihantala avoids it well.
Oliva lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
A swing and a miss from Ihantala.
A decent looking body kick lands there for Oliva.
Ihantala checks a leg kick nicely.
Ihantala throws a quick counter kick to the body but Oliva avoids it.
Oliva attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Oliva throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Oliva with a nice calf kick.
Oliva with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Good work by Ihantala as he checks the leg kick.
Oliva tries a low kick but Ihantala avoids it.#T1#
Oliva fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Ihantala checks it well.
Ihantala was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
A head kick misses from Ihantala.
Oliva throws a leg kick that misses.
Oliva motions for Ihantala to come forward. Oliva throws a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Ihantala appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
Ihantala swats away the attempt to clinch by Oliva.
Ihantala scores with a push kick.
Oliva chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Ihantala looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Oliva attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
A low kick from Oliva misses
and Ihantala counters with a body kick that stops Oliva in his tracks momentarily.
Oliva is breathing heavily.#T2#
Oliva swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Oliva gets off balance looking for a body kick
and Ihantala counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Oliva fakes the leg kick and cracks Ihantala in the body.
Ihantala avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Ihantala throws a hook but Oliva blocks it.
Ihantala is looking to clinch but Oliva is avoiding it.
Oliva takes one to the side of the head.
Oliva throws out a leg kick but Ihantala moves out of range and Oliva only half commits.
It looked like Ihantala wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Ihantala connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut. Oliva saw that one coming.
Ihantala checks a low kick from Oliva.
Ihantala throws a lazy right hand but Oliva sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#T3#
Oliva throws a leg kick but Ihantala checks it.
A low kick from Oliva misses
and Ihantala counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Oliva fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
A clash of legs there as Ihantala blocks the low kick.
An attempted straight right counter from Ihantala misses the target.
Oliva misses with a low kick.
Oliva throws a low kick but Ihantala moves out of range easily.
Ihantala was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Ihantala scores with a sloppy right hand. Oliva should have avoided that one.
Oliva throws a low kick, looking for Ihantala's leg but Ihantala calmly moves out of range.
And Ihantala counters with a quick kick to the body but Oliva blocks it.
Oliva shapes like he's going to throw a leg kick but settles back down.
Oliva throws out a leg kick but Ihantala moves out of range and Oliva only half commits.
Ihantala tries to score with a low kick but Oliva moves his leg out of the way.
Oliva wants to slow Ihantala down by chopping away at his legs. #T4#
Ihantala lands with a kick to the ribs.
Oliva throws a leg kick but Ihantala checks it.
Ihantala throws a wild body kick that Oliva sees coming a mile off.
Oliva tries to work over Ihantala's front leg with a kick but Ihantala checks it.
As Oliva backs away, Ihantala returns fire with a leg kick that just misses.
Oliva throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Oliva's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Ihantala connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Oliva scrambles back to his feet.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Oliva slips under a jab from Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Oliva ducks down to avoid it.
Oliva ducks right into an uppercut from Ihantala. #CL2#
Oliva pushes Ihantala up against the cage in a clinch.
Oliva can't find room to land a body shot as Ihantala controls the action.
Ihantala pressing his opponent against the cage.
Ihantala looking to stall.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Tali Ihantala will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Biscuit Oliva's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! And we move into the final round!#R3#
Oliva throws a low kick but it's checked well by Ihantala.
Ihantala takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?
Ihantala misses with a hook
and Oliva counters with an outside leg kick.
Oliva is looking to chop away at Ihantala's legs.
Oliva attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Ihantala moves out of range of the leg kick from Oliva.
Oliva dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Ihantala. That did some damage!
Oliva shoots in and drives through. Ihantala sprawls well.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Oliva throws a leg kick that is checked
enabling Ihantala to counter with a crisp jab.
Oliva gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Oliva ducks right into an uppercut from Ihantala.
Tali Ihantala is winning the standup battle so far.
Oliva lands with a thumping leg kick. #T1#
Oliva with the inside leg kick.
A chopping leg kick lands by Ihantala.
Oliva throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Ihantala half committed to a counter leg kick.
Oliva lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Ihantala 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.
Some bone on bone action there as Ihantala checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one.
Oliva thows a leg kick but Ihantala checks it
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Oliva has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Oliva moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Ihantala connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Ihantala avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Oliva lands a nice leg kick that just misses Ihantala's sensitive parts.
Nice uppercut there from Ihantala.#T2#
Oliva checks the leg kick.
A good leg kick by Oliva.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Oliva displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Ihantala throws out the jab.
Oliva buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Oliva finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Oliva lands a leg kick that knocks Ihantala off balance momentarily.
Ihantala checks a low kick from Oliva.
Ihantala has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Oliva.
Oliva staying out of range there.
Oliva throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Ihantala tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Oliva thumps Ihantala with a low kick.#T3#
Oliva checks a low kick from Ihantala.
An inside leg kick from Oliva misses.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Oliva lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Ihantala has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Ihantala and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Oliva fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Oliva moves forwards but Ihantala connects with a nice, crisp jab.
A low kick from Oliva is predictable there
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Oliva throws a low kick but Ihantala avoids it.
Oliva misses with a leg kick.
Oliva thows a leg kick but Ihantala checks it
and Ihantala counters with a body kick.
Oliva takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Ihantala blocks a leg kick.
Oliva thows a leg kick but Ihantala checks it
and Oliva takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #T4##TD2#
Oliva fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Ihantala to the ground. Oliva is now in Ihantala's guard.
Ihantala trying to control the position here.
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!
Oliva in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Oliva from controlling successfully.
Ihantala is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.
Oliva trying to control but Ihantala is working from the bottom.
The referee is asking the fighters to pick up the pace.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Biscuit Oliva.
I think Ihantala has won this one but let's see what the judges have to say. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Tatsuya Matsuyama scores the fight 29:28
Judge Sosuke Kotani scores the fight 29:28
Judge Ren Mimura scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tali Ihantala!

Our winner, Tali Ihantala, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.

 

Event: WVT 147: Ihantala v Kok     
Date:   Aug 25, 2023
#R1#
Kok throws a body kick despite being completely out of range
and Ihantala counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Kok tries to land a front kick but Ihantala steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Ihantala works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Chew Kok seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Kok throws a body kick, spinning off balance
and Ihantala counters with a body kick that brings a smile to the face of both fighters.
Kok connects with a jab.
Kok swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Ihantala counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Kok misses with the body kick
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Ihantala moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.#CUT2#It looks like Chew Kok has been cut.
Kok wants to clinch.
Ihantala is trying to counter with his kicks.
Kok on the wrong end of a nice jab.#T1#
Ihantala misses with a leg kick.
Kok tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ihantala was well out of range. Poor timing from Kok.
A little jabbing left from Ihantala on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Kok throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Kok slips under a jab from Ihantala.
Kok appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
A decent looking cross lands there for Kok.
Kok looks to throw a body kick
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Kok.
Kok looks for the body kick but Ihantala saw that one coming.
Kok uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Ihantala.
Kok lands a vicious shot with the stealth of a sniper and the strength of a viper. Are vipers that strong? I can think of lots of things that are stronger than a viper - not many rhyme with sniper though. #T2#
Kok goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Ihantala was about to counter that last move with a leg kick but changes his mind.
Kok swings and misses with a hook to the body.
A little jabbing left from Ihantala on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Ihantala lands with a nice body punch.
Ihantala moves away from the strike by Kok.
Ihantala avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Ihantala pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Ihantala throws a front kick that sends Kok stumbling back into the cage.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Kok throws a poor cross that misses
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Kok throws a poor cross that misses
and Kok takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Ihantala fakes the body blow, causing Kok to drop his hands! Left hook to the temple! Kok goes stiff, and falls face first into the mat. Goodnight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tali Ihantala!
An out of breath Tali Ihantala thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: WVT 141: Takahashi v Siale     
Date:   Aug 11, 2023
#R1#
Ihantala feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Hightowers jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
Hightower moves out of range of the body kick from Ihantala.
Hightower steps in looking to counter with the mid kick but it doesn't connect.
Ihantala scores with a jab to the jaw.
Hightower pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Hightower throws a hook but Ihantala blocks it.
Ihantala tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Hightower manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Hightower moves out of range of the strikes.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hightower connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Ihantala's hands.
Ihantala connects with an inside leg kick.#T1#
Hightower goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Hightower. Ihantala shrugs it off though.
Nice uppercut lands for Hightower. That snapped Ihantala's head back.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut. Hightower saw that one coming.
Ihantala misses with a straight left.
Hightower is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Ihantala has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.#CL#
Ihantala pushes Hightower up against the cage in a clinch.
Ihantala lands an uppercut.
Ihantala holding his opponent close, against the cage.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Hightower as Ihantala tries to tie him up. #T2#
Hightower swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Ihantala's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
A nice left hand lands by Hightower.
Still in the clinch, Ihantala scores with a nice short uppercut.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!#BC#
Ihantala pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Ihantala misses with a body shot #KD2#
and Hightower counters with a crisp right hand that drops Ihantala! Hightower lets Ihantala back up to his feet, looking for a finish!#CUT2#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.
Ihantala throws a hook but Hightower blocks it.
Hightower looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Hightower throws a head kick that misses
and Ihantala counters with a straight right hand.
A chopping leg kick lands by Ihantala. #KD2#
Hightower sends Ihantala crashing to the mat with a devastating uppercut! Hightower is motioning to the referee to let Ihantala up. He wants to try and finish this one on the feet!#T3#
Hightower ducks down and throws a big overhand right - it lands flush on the jaw, knocking Ihantala out cold! The fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:10 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Jason Hightower!
Jason Hightower decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

 

Event: WVT 136: Ihantala v Mathieu     
Date:   Jul 28, 2023
#R1#
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Mathieu lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Ihantala has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Ihantala and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
It looked like Ihantala wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.#CL2#
Mathieu clinches up with Ihantala and pushes him back against the cage.
I was talking to Ihantala's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Mathieu lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
A short right from Mathieu on the inside.
Mathieu keeps control of Ihantala as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks. #BC#
Ihantala escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
Ihantala throws an overhand right that lands on Mathieu's shoulder, as Mathieu tries to avoid the shot.
Mathieu has done a lot of speed work in the buildup to this fight.
Mathieu is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Mathieu misses with an uppercut. Ihantala saw that one coming.
Mathieu just manages to avoid a counter high kick fromIhantala.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Ihantala moves into range and lands a nice leg kick. #T1#
A lazy body kick from Ihantala
and Mathieu counters with a nice uppercut.
Mathieu throws a hook to the side of Ihantala's head but Ihantala sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Ihantala is looking to counter punch.
Mathieu throws a shot to the body.
Ihantala misses with a hook to the body
and Ihantala takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Mathieu misses with a hook.
Ihantala defending well as Mathieu loads up on a big left hand.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Mathieu looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Mathieu defending well as Ihantala loads up on a big left hand. #T2#
Ihantala keeps the fight on the outside.
Mathieu thuds his shin into the meat of Ihantala's side.
Mathieu lands a jab to the head.
Mathieu avoids a kick to the body.
Ihantala throws a wild body kick that Mathieu sees coming a mile off.
Ihantala throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Mathieu cracks a nice hook into Ihantala's ribs.
Mathieu misses with a low kick. #T3#
Ihantala looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Mathieu pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
A telegraphed right hand from Ihantala misses the target.
Mathieu tried to score with a low kick but Ihantala checks it.
Mathieu throws a hook but Ihantala blocks it.
Ihantala scores with a nice strike.#CUT#It looks like Ernesto Mathieu has been cut.
Mathieu connects with a looping right hand.
Mathieu blocks a jab.
Mathieu looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.#T4#
Mathieu misses with an uppercut. Ihantala saw that one coming.
An attempted straight right counter from Ihantala misses the target.
Mathieu lands the left hand.
Ihantala misses with a body kick.
Mathieu with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Mathieu pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Ihantala was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Ihantala moves out of range as Mathieu strikes.
Ihantala throws out a loose jab but Mathieu uses good head movement to avoid it.
Mathieu scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernesto Mathieu dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ernesto Mathieu's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Mathieu lands a nice leg kick that just misses Ihantala's sensitive parts.
Mathieu slips a jab from Ihantala.
Ihantala backing away here, and Mathieu unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Mathieu swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Nice defenses there by Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a hook.
A little jabbing left from Mathieu on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Ihantala finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Mathieu misses with a straight right.
Mathieu looks for the body kick but Ihantala saw that one coming. #T1#
A big right from Mathieu misses.
Ihantala swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Mathieu throws a poor cross that misses
enabling Ihantala to counter with a crisp jab.
Mathieu blocks the body kick.
Mathieu slips under a jab from Ihantala.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Ihantala throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Mathieu counters with a straight right hand.
Mathieu fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Mathieu avoids a low kick by using good footwork.#T2#
Ihantala throws a jab when Mathieu was well out of range.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Mathieu. Ihantala shrugs it off though.
Ihantala misses with a kick to the body.
Ihantala backing away here, and Mathieu unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Ihantala ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Mathieu moves away.
Mathieu chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Mathieu scores with a jab.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Mathieu connects with a looping right hand.
Mathieu fails in his attempt to clinch. #T3#
Mathieu blocks a low kick nicely.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Mathieu! But no joy.
A lazy body kick from Ihantala
and Ihantala takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Mathieu blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
Sloppy strikes from Mathieu. Those never looked like landing.
An attempted straight right counter from Ihantala misses the target.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
Mathieu throws a front kick that sends Ihantala stumbling back into the cage.
Ihantala swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Mathieu throws a wild body kick that Ihantala sees coming a mile off.#T4#
Ihantala takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Mathieu takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Mathieu throws a nice outside leg kick.
Mathieu misses with a body kick.
Ihantala is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Mathieu with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Ihantala scores with a jab to the jaw.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ihantala throws a lazy right hand but Mathieu sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernesto Mathieu showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Ernesto Mathieu's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.#R3#
Ihantala pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Mathieu looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Ihantala fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Ihantala with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Mathieu to score with a decent uppercut.
Ihantala moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Ihantala lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.#CL2#
Mathieu moves into the clinch.
Ihantala 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.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala lands a left hand that snaps the head of Mathieu backwards. #BC2#
Mathieu breaks the clinch.
Mathieu misses with a head kick. #T1#
Ihantala takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie.
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Mathieu throws out the jab.
Mathieu missing with a left hand there. Ihantala was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Ihantala throws a low kick but it's checked well by Mathieu.
Ihantala scoring well with a low kick there.
Mathieu takes one to the side of the head.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Ihantala lands a body shot. #T2#
Mathieu lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Mathieu moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Mathieu misses with a low kick.
Ernesto Mathieu seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Mathieu on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
Mathieu fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
A big left from Ihantala misses.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ihantala throws an off balance right hand
and Mathieu counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#T3#
Mathieu misses with a body kick.
Ihantala is looking to counter punch.
Ihantala throws a right hand that misses
and Mathieu connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Ihantala just misses with a punch to the body.
Ihantala swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Mathieu.
Ihantala looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Ihantala misses with a straight right.
A jab from Mathieu misses.
Mathieu checks a low kick from Ihantala.#T4#
Mathieu avoids the body shot from Ihantala.
Mathieu is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Ihantala with a body shot.
Jab from Ihantala.
Ihantala takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Ihantala 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.
A lazy left from Ihantala finds it's target.
Ihantala scores with a kick to the body.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
A slow jab from Mathieu misses its intended target.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but Tali Ihantala did the better work so I'd imagine he'll take it.
The cut man is working on Ernesto Mathieu's cut.
That's time! Ihantala's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R4#
Mathieu connects with a solid leg kick.
A punch combination from Ihantala misses.
Ihantala avoids the head kick by Mathieu.
A nice leg kick lands there from Ihantala.
Mathieu with the inside leg kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Mathieu throws a shot to the body.
Ihantala throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Ihantala backing away here, and Mathieu unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Ihantala fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.#T1#
Mathieu ducks under a wild hook from Ihantala.
Mathieu tries to land a front kick but Ihantala steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Mathieu has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Ihantala misses with a body punch
and Mathieu counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Ihantala throws a jab when Mathieu was well out of range.
Mathieu swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Mathieu scores with a punch to the head.
Ihantala is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Mathieu. #T2#
Ihantala blocks a low kick nicely.
Mathieu pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Mathieu pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Mathieu blocks a jab.
A little jabbing left from Mathieu on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Ihantala lands the left hand.
Mathieu tests Ihantala's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Mathieu throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Ihantala thinks about countering with a head kick.#T3#
Ihantala throws a right hand that misses
and Mathieu counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Mathieu lands an overhand right.
Ihantala misses with a right hand
and Mathieu counters with an inside leg kick.
The fighters circling - Ihantala throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Ihantala takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Ihantala tries to land a body kick
and Mathieu counters with a stiff right hand.
Mathieu lands a glancing blow to the side of Ihantala's head.
Mathieu misses with a low kick. #T4#
Ihantala swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Mathieu counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Ihantala takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Ihantala misses with a looping right.
Ihantala pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Mathieu tries a quick counter leg kick but Ihantala is wise to it.
Tali Ihantala has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Ihantala throws a shot from downtown. Mathieu moves away and avoids it.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Mathieu cracks Ihantala with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
A telegraphed right hand from Ihantala misses the target.
A little jabbing left from Mathieu on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ernesto Mathieu dominated that fourth round.
The cut man is working on Ernesto Mathieu's cut.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action. So, we enter the final round. Let's see if either fighter can bring us a finish, or whether we're going to the judges scorecards.#R5#
A big left from Mathieu misses.
A looping hook to the body misses from Ihantala. Mathieu does a little dance to reset his feet.
Ihantala is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Mathieu avoids a kick to the body.
A slapping body kick lands there for Mathieu.
Ihantala takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Mathieu scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Mathieu looks to land a right hand but Ihantala moved out of range.
Ihantala is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Mathieu has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Ihantala finds it's way round the side to connect with Mathieu's head. #T1#
A looping hook to the body misses from Mathieu. Ihantala does a little dance to reset his feet.
A quick step to the side and Ihantala tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
A swing and a miss from Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a double jab.
The fighters circling - Ihantala throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Mathieu misses the jab.
An attempted straight right counter from Ihantala misses the target.
Mathieu connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Ihantala throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range. #T2#
A bone on bone clash there as Mathieu blocks the leg kick.
Ihantala throws a lazy uppercut
and Mathieu counters with a stiff right hand.
Mathieu avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Mathieu scores with a decent looking hook.
Mathieu uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Ihantala.
Ihantala slips under a jab from Mathieu.
Nice shot lands for Ihantala.#T3#
The fighters circling - Ihantala throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Ihantala takes a jab right on the kisser.
Ihantala looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Mathieu listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Mathieu throws a combination that misses
and Ihantala counters with a leg kick that reverborates around the arena.
Ihantala misses with a straight left.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Mathieu! But no joy.
Ihantala throws a series of punches but Mathieu moves out of range. #CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.#T4#
Mathieu tries to land a knee to the head but misses.
Mathieu tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Ihantala avoids it.
Ihantala's corner are urging him to control the action in the clinch for a moment, rather than mount any serious offense. I'm sure the crowd appreciate those instructions... not.
The two fighters are working to gain dominance in the clinch.
The crowd are getting pretty annoyed with Ihantala for his constant stalling in the clinch and are voicing their displeasure.
Mathieu fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Mathieu tries to land a knee to the head but Ihantala blocks with his arms.
Mathieu misses with a knee strike.
Ihantala throws a head punch that misses.
Mathieu tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Ihantala avoids it.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Mathieu controls his hands.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Ihantala lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Mathieu lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Ihantala misses with a body punch.
Ihantala will be looking to protect his midsection after taking some solid kicks to the body.
Ihantala scores with a hook to the body.
Mathieu is wobbling all over the place through exhaustion. Will he make it to the final bell?
Ihantala works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Ernesto Mathieu.
Well Mathieu 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 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Dean Styles scores the fight 46:49
Judge Steve Montenegro scores the fight 45:50
Judge David Schapiro scores the fight 46:49

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ernesto Mathieu!

Ernesto Mathieu is the new super heavyweight champion!
After winning the bout, Ernesto Mathieu thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: WVT 125: Machado v Ihantala 3     
Date:   Jul 07, 2023
#R1#
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Machado throws out the jab.
It seemed like Ihantala was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Machado with a nice calf kick.
Machado fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Ihantala looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Ihantala checks the leg kick.
It seemed like Ihantala was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Ihantala walks into a left hand.
Machado takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing. #CUT2#It looks like Wanderson Machado has been cut.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Machado tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ihantala was well out of range. Poor timing from Machado.
Machado throws a low kick but Ihantala moves out of range easily.
Machado finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt. #T1#
Ihantala takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Machado throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Ihantala is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Machado with a body shot.
A low kick from Machado is predictable there
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Machado throws a series of punches but Ihantala moves out of range.
Machado misses with a right hand
and Ihantala counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Ihantala tries to land a leg kick but Machado saw it coming and moves away.
Machado throws a leg kick
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand. #CUT2#Wanderson Machado's cut is getting worse.
Ihantala bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.#T2#
Ihantala misses with a hook
and Machado counters with a right hand to the body.
Machado thows a leg kick but Ihantala checks it
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Ihantala looks for the body kick but Machado saw that one coming.
Machado swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Ihantala fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Machado misses with a hook to the body
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#CUT2#Wanderson Machado's cut is bleeding quite badly. He's got to try and protect it.
Machado swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Machado looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Ihantala misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick. #T3#
Machado lands with an overhand left.
Ihantala waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Machado.
Machado is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Machado chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Ihantala has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.
Machado ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Ihantala moves away.
Ihantala counters with a body kick.
A lazy left from Machado finds it's target.
Machado throws a left and a right that both miss
and Ihantala makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Ihantala 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.
Ihantala is using his reach advantage to land shots from outside his opponent's range.
Machado stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Ihantala.#T4#
Machado misses with a left hand
and Ihantala counters with a nice uppercut.
Ihantala takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Ihantala misses with a telegraphed body shot
and Machado counters with a left to the body.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Machado throws a body shot but no joy.
Ihantala drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Machado moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Machado throws a leg kick
and Machado takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Wanderson Machado will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Wanderson Machado's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Machado misses the jab.
A nice inside leg kick there by Machado. That's going to slow Ihantala down.
Machado throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Ihantala counters with a body kick that stops Machado in his tracks momentarily.
Ihantala scores with a crisp jab that stopped Machado in his tracks. #CUT2#Jeez, Wanderson Machado's cut is really nasty now. The referee must be thinking about getting that checked.
Ihantala has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Wanderson Machado seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Machado misses with a straight right.
Ihantala steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Machado.
Ihantala unleashes a big counter combination but Machado bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Machado misses with a body shot.
Machado misses with a hook.#T1#
Machado is looking to slow Ihantala down with leg kicks.
Machado thumps Ihantala with a low kick.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
Machado misses with an uppercut. Ihantala saw that one coming.
Machado lands a vicious shot with the stealth of a sniper and the strength of a viper. Are vipers that strong? I can think of lots of things that are stronger than a viper - not many rhyme with sniper though.
Ihantala throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Machado swings for the body but Ihantala moves out of range.
Machado avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Machado fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.#T2#
Ihantala rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Machado counters with a thumping low kick.
A cross from Machado lands.
Machado is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Ihantala can do to turn this around?
Ihantala takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Ihantala scores with a kick to the midsection.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Machado throws a leg kick but Ihantala checks it.
Ihantala slips under a jab from Machado.
Machado missing with a left hand there. Ihantala was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one. #T3#
Machado throws a shot from downtown. Ihantala moves away and avoids it.
Ihantala blocks a jab.
Machado moves out of the way of the counter high kick fromIhantala.
Ihantala throws a series of punches but Machado avoids them all with ease.
Ihantala with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Machado to score with a decent uppercut.
Machado connects with an inside leg kick.
Machado finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Both these guys seem content to just stand up and trade with each other but Ihantala might want to think about changing up his gameplan a bit because over the course of the fight, Machado has got the better of the exchanges.
Machado throws a nice inside leg kick.
Wanderson Machado is winning the standup battle so far.
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Ihantala doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.#T4#
Machado throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Ihantala lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.

The referee calls the doctor in to look at Wanderson Machado's cut. Oh no, the doctor has called an end to the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:27 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala is the new super heavyweight champion!
Tali Ihantala decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

 

Event: WVT 119: Ihantala v Vunipola     
Date:   Jun 23, 2023
#R1#
Ihantala avoids the body shot from Veainu.
Ihantala throws a counter high kick but Veainu was just alert enough to avoid it.
Ihantala connects with a body shot that sends Veainu's belly button to the back.
Ihantala scores with a decent looking hook.#CUT#It looks like Vunipola Veainu has been cut.
Ihantala misses with a low kick.
Veainu doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Ihantala scores with a jab to the jaw.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Veainu throws a sloppy body shot
and Ihantala counters with a nice body shot.
Ihantala wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Ihantala scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.#T1#
Ihantala lands a leg kick that knocks Veainu off balance momentarily.#KD#
Ihantala drops Veainu with a beautiful combination! Veainu stares up at his opponent, who ushers him back to his feet - Ihantala is looking for the KO!
Ihantala misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Ihantala is using his reach advantage well here, landing the more effective single shots from range.
Veainu misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
Veainu misses the shot to the body.
Ihantala throwing a counter right hand but Veainu manages to avoid it.
Ihantala swings and misses with a hook to the body. #T2#
Ihantala wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Ihantala scores with a nice right hand. #CUT#That has opened up Vunipola Veainu's cut even more.
Veainu swings away with a body shot that misses
and Ihantala counters with a right hand to the body.
Ihantala throws a quick head kick that knocks Veainu silly! This fight is all over! What a finish! Ihantala is up on the cage, taking in the applause from the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:33 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Head Kick). Tali Ihantala!
A victorious Tali Ihantala thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

 

Event: WVT 110: Ihantala v Mathieu     
Date:   Jun 02, 2023
#R1#
Mathieu swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#CUT2#It looks like Ernesto Mathieu has been cut.
Ihantala throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Mathieu sees it coming and avoids it easily.
A chopping leg kick lands by Ihantala.
Ihantala takes one to the chin there.
Ihantala lands a lovely overhand right.#CL#
Mathieu gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala misses with a punch on the inside.
Ihantala lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Ihantala stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Mathieu with a knee to the head.
A right hook to the body lands for Ihantala.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Mathieu keeps control of Ihantala as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks. #T1#
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Mathieu controls his hands.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Ihantala lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Ihantala tries to throw a body punch but Mathieu avoids it by throwing Ihantala back against the cage.
Ihantala managing to block the knees to the body from Mathieu.
A short body shot lands from Ihantala as the two fighters clinch.
Ihantala lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Ihantala lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Mathieu backwards.
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch.
Mathieu goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Mathieu tries a knee to the head but Ihantala blocks it.
Mathieu tries to land a knee to the head but misses.
Ihantala swings wildly with an uppercut but Mathieu uses good head movement to avoid it.
Ihantala tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Mathieu tries a body shot but Ihantala blocks it.
Ihantala misses with a short punch on the inside.
Mathieu scores with a knee to the head.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Mathieu lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage. #T2#
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!
Mathieu tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Ihantala lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Ihantala lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Ihantala has been looking to improve his clinch game in recent weeks. Mathieu seems to have the measure of him in the clinch so far, so let's see if Ihantala can turn it around.#BC2#
Ihantala breaks from the clinch.
Mathieu takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Mathieu tries to clinch but Ihantala moves away
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Mathieu connects with a good right hand that stumbles Ihantala. Ihantala circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Ihantala circles away from the clinch attempt
and Ihantala counters with a nice body kick. #T3#
Ihantala throws a series of punches but Mathieu avoids them all with ease.
An attempted straight right counter from Mathieu misses the target.
Ihantala fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Mathieu has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Mathieu throws a body kick that misses
and Ihantala counters with a nice low kick that buckles Mathieu's knee momentarily.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
Mathieu darts in trying to clinch
and Ihantala counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Mathieu tries to clinch
and Ihantala counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Mathieu throws a half hearted mid kick.
Ihantala flicks out a counter leg kick but Mathieu steps away.#T4#
Mathieu slips a jab from Ihantala.
Ihantala swings away with a body shot that misses
and Mathieu counters with a right hand to the body.
Ihantala finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Mathieu thinks about countering with a body kick.
Ihantala tries a head kick but it misses.
Ihantala throws an off balance right hand
and Mathieu counters with a lovely straight right hand!#CL#
Mathieu moves into the clinch.
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!
Mathieu tries to land knees in the clinch but Ihantala avoids the damage to the body.
Ihantala lands a shoulder strike.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Ernesto Mathieu's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Ihantala looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Mathieu displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Ihantala throws out the jab.
It looked like Mathieu was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a half hearted mid kick.
Mathieu throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with a two punch combo.
Mathieu looks to clinch
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala lands with a shot to the body.
Some wild striking there from Ihantala.
We've been told by Mathieu's head coaches at Convicted Top Team that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.#T1#
Mathieu is looking to chop away at Ihantala's legs.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Mathieu fires out a quick counter leg kick but Ihantala just manages to avoid it.
Ihantala throws a shot to the body.
Mathieu throws a lazy head kick #KD2#
and Ihantala counters with a head kick that drops Mathieu to the mat! Mathieu scrambles across the canvas and gets back to his feet, still wobbly!
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses.
Mathieu throws a poor cross that misses
and Mathieu takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Ihantala throws a wild body kick that Mathieu sees coming a mile off.#T2#
Mathieu blocks the body kick.
Mathieu wants to clinch up but Ihantala keeps it at a distance.
Ihantala steps in looking to counter with the mid kick but it doesn't connect.#CL2#
Ihantala closes the distance and clinches.
Ihantala misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Ihantala tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Mathieu misses with a knee to the head.
Ihantala lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Mathieu working aggressively here.
Mathieu blocking some punches.
Ihantala scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Mathieu misses with some punches.
Ihantala swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Ihantala has a couple of punches blocked by Mathieu.
Ihantala digs a right hand into Mathieu's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Mathieu's gas tank. #T3##BC#
Mathieu escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Ihantala just misses with a punch to the body.
Mathieu half committed to a counter leg kick.
Ihantala throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Mathieu misses with a hook
and Ihantala counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Ihantala uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Ihantala misses with a kick to the body
and Mathieu counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Ihantala throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Mathieu jinks towards his opponent looking like he wants to counter with a mid kick but doesn't commit.
Ihantala swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.#T4#
A slow jab from Ihantala misses its intended target.
Mathieu throws a poor cross that misses
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Mathieu misses with a hook
and Ihantala counters with a left to the body.
Ihantala misses the jab.
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Mathieu ducks down to avoid it.
Ihantala swings widly with a right hand
and Mathieu counters with a kick to the head that grazes his opponent. Ihantala is lucky that one didn't land flush.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Ihantala throws a sloppy head kick
and Mathieu counters with a nice uppercut.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Ernesto Mathieu's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
Ihantala throws a hook to the side of Mathieu's head but Mathieu sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
A big right from Ihantala misses.
Mathieu throws a body kick, spinning off balance
and Ihantala counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses.
Ihantala throws a big shot that misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Mathieu scores with a push kick.
A solid leg kick lands there for Ihantala.
Mathieu swings for the body but Ihantala moves out of range. #T1#
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Mathieu. Ihantala shrugs it off though.
Ihantala scores with a decent looking hook.
Ihantala looks to land a body kick but Mathieu moved away.
Ihantala slips a jab and a cross from Mathieu.
Ihantala throws a poor cross that misses
and Mathieu counters with a nice uppercut.
Ihantala throws a lazy uppercut
and Mathieu counters with a nice uppercut.
Ernesto Mathieu has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Mathieu on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Mathieu ducks down to avoid it.
Mathieu uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Ihantala.
A counter left hand to the body from Mathieu misses its target.
Ihantala 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.
Ihantala ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Mathieu moves away.
Mathieu gets cracked there but stands up to it.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Mathieu connects with a jab.#T3#
Ihantala motions for Mathieu to come forward. Ihantala throws a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Ihantala on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Mathieu. Mathieu obviously looking to wear him down.
Ihantala tries to clinch but Mathieu moves away
and he gets countered with a snapping leg kick.
Ihantala throws a low kick, looking for Mathieu's leg but Mathieu calmly moves out of range.
Mathieu lands a nice shot to the body.
Tali Ihantala seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Ihantala tries to work over Mathieu's front leg with a kick but Mathieu checks it.
Mathieu swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Mathieu scores with a sloppy right hand. Ihantala should have avoided that one. #T4#
A head kick by Ihantala misses
and Mathieu counters with a stiff right hand.
Ihantala scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.#CUT2#Ernesto Mathieu's cut is getting worse.
Ihantala throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Ihantala has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Mathieu throws a lazy uppercut
and Ihantala counters with a lovely shot to the body.
An inside leg kick from Mathieu misses.
Ihantala works Mathieu's body with a nice hook.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ihantala bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Tali Ihantala.
Well Ihantala 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 Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 27:30
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight 27:30
Judge Percy O'Donnell scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tali Ihantala!

An out of breath Tali Ihantala thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: WVT 102: Okongwu v Ihantala     
Date:   May 12, 2023
#R1#
Ihantala scores with a three punch combo! #CUT2#It looks like Mauro Okongwu has been cut.
Okongwu scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Ihantala throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Okongwu counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Okongwu looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Okongwu.
Ihantala lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.
Ihantala throws a nice outside leg kick.
Okongwu misses with a series of wild punches.
Ihantala looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Okongwu uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Ihantala.
Ihantala keeps the fight on the outside.
Ihantala throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Okongwu sees it coming and avoids it easily.
A low kick from Ihantala is predictable there
and Okongwu counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Tali Ihantala seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Okongwu takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK. #T1#
Okongwu moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Ihantala clobbers Okongwu with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
A chopping leg kick lands by Okongwu.
Ihantala misses with a head kick.
Okongwu lands with a shot to the body.
Ihantala throws a lazy body kick
enabling Okongwu to counter with a crisp jab.
Ihantala throws a lazy right hand but Okongwu sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Ihantala throws a lazy uppercut
and Okongwu counters with a nice uppercut.
Ihantala needs to keep his hands up - Okongwu had a free shot at his head there.
Okongwu with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Ihantala to score with a decent uppercut.#CUT2#Mauro Okongwu's cut is getting worse.#T2#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
A leg kick checked by Okongwu.
Ihantala throws a big shot that misses.
Ihantala fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Okongwu gets off balance looking for a body kick
and Ihantala counters with a nice uppercut. #KD#
Okongwu lands a big right hand that sends Ihantala crashing to the mat! Okongwu stays standing though and waves Ihantala back to his feet!#ROC#Ihantala is rocked!#CUT#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.
Okongwu punishes Ihantala's body with a nice straight punch.
Okongwu swings for the body but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala throws a solid leg kick but Okongwu takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Ihantala.#KD#
Okongwu cracks Ihantala with a big right hand that sends him to the floor! Ihantala looks wobbly but he's sprung back up to his feet straight away… can Okongwu finish him?
Ihantala is still on wobbly legs! Can Okongwu finish him?
Ihantala switches off momentarily and Okongwu cracks him with a monster right hand! Ihantala topples backwards and makes a semi conscious attempt to cover up, as Okongwu dives in to land one more shot, before the referee has time to call the fight. What a finish by Okongwu!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Mauro Okongwu!
A victorious Mauro Okongwu thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

 

Event: WVT 97: Ihantala v Knox     
Date:   Apr 29, 2023
#R1#
A right-left combo lands from Ihantala. #CUT#It looks like Zeta Knox has been cut.
Ihantala connects with a leg kick.
Ihantala looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Ihantala lets loose with a powerful body kick. Knox will feel that in the morning.
Knox swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Ihantala stuns Knox with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Ihantala scores with the left hand. Knox knows he should have avoided that one.
Ihantala throws a body shot but no joy.
Knox looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Knox looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Knox lands a jab-cross combination.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Knox misses with a jab to the body
and Ihantala counters with a big right hand! Oh Knox is in trouble here! Ihantala follows up with more strikes and that's it! The ref has stopped it!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:48 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
An out of breath Tali Ihantala thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.
Zeta Knox was interviewed post fight and said '"If you haven't lost in this sport, you haven't fought the right guys yet." (Matt Hughes) '.

 

Event: WVT 89: Ihantala v Machado 2     
Date:   Apr 07, 2023
#R1#
Machado lands with an overhand left.
Ihantala throws a leg kick that misses.
Machado throws a predictable looking body shot
and Ihantala counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Both fighters circling a little - Machado finishes the exchange with a kick to the body.
Machado scores with a nice right hand.
Machado checks the leg kick nicely there.
Nice defenses there by Machado.
Ihantala closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Machado throws a body punch but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala throws a solid leg kick but Machado takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Ihantala.
Ihantala connects with a single shot there.#CUT#It looks like Wanderson Machado has been cut.
Tali Ihantala seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ihantala walks into a jab.#T1#
Ihantala throws a body kick that misses
and Machado counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Machado misses with a body shot
and Ihantala counters with a nice uppercut.
Ihantala lands with a hook. Machado tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
That's a knee to de groin and it's over and out! Ihantala crumples to the ground after an illegal strike from Machado - the referee stops the clock and Ihantala gets 5 minutes to recover from that one. "I'm sorry" says Machado. Ihantala manages to get back to his feet and the fight resumes.
Machado looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Ihantala went nuts there looking for a big combo counter but none of the flurry connected.
Machado closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
A head kick by Ihantala misses
and Machado counters with a body kick.
Ihantala is breathing heavily.
Machado throws a body kick that misses.
The fighters circling - Ihantala throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Machado with a jab.
Ihantala misses with a body punch
and Machado counters with a stiff right hand. #T2#
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Machado fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Ihantala checks it well.
Machado misses with a leg kick.
Ihantala lands with a thumping leg kick.
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Machado feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Ihantalas jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Machado blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
It seemed like Machado was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Machado.
Thud! ouch! good body kick from Ihantala - that will leave a mark!
Ihantala throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Machado is trying to counter with his kicks.
Machado is landing a lot of head punches in this opening round! Ihantala had better start moving his head a bit unless he wants his face to turn into mush.
Machado misses the jab.
Ihantala lands a glancing blow to the side of Machado's head.#T3#
A slow jab from Machado misses its intended target.
Ihantala with a nice cross.
Ihantala looks to land a body kick but Machado moved away.
Machado raises up his leg as if looking to counter with a high kick.
Nice straight punches there by Machado. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Machado.
Machado avoids the body shot from Ihantala.
A combination from Ihantala does no damage.
Ihantala misses with a wild body shot.
A leg kick checked by Ihantala.
Ihantala moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.#CUT#That has opened up Wanderson Machado's cut even more.
Machado misses with a hook. Ihantala ducked under it nicely.
Machado has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.#T4#
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Machado.
Ihantala slips a straight right by Machado.
Ihantala swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Ihantala uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Machado.
Machado throws a push kick but Ihantala slaps the foot to one side.
Ihantala lands with a slapping head kick.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Ihantala jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Ihantala rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Machado counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Ihantala misses with the body kick
enabling Machado to counter with a crisp jab.
A slow jab from Ihantala misses its intended target.
Machado swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Ihantala throws a head kick that looked like it stung. #CUT#The cut above Wanderson Machado's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
Machado throws a shot to the body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Wanderson Machado will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Wanderson Machado's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Machado ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses.
Machado only half commits to the counter leg kick.
Machado throws a hook but Ihantala avoids it easily.
Machado misses the jab.
Ihantala takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Machado throws a quick head kick that skims the top of Ihantala's head.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut
and Machado scores with a counter punch that sends Ihantala to the canvas! Machado smells blood - he's punishing Ihantala with more strikes and the ref has stopped it! Ihantala has no idea where he is - he's tackled the ref... oh dear, poor guy, the crowd is in hysterics!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:40 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Wanderson Machado!
Wanderson Machado is the new super heavyweight champion!
A very excited looking Wanderson Machado made sure he remembered to thank all the fans both in the arena and on the internet. He said all the coolest people spend all day on MMA websites, which got a big reaction.

 

Event: WVT 83: Ihantala v Hightower     
Date:   Mar 24, 2023
#R1#
Ihantala swings widly with a right hand
and Hightower counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Hightower has been spending a lot of time sparring his boxing in the run up to the fight, trying to sharpen up those hands and look for a knockout.
Ihantala throws the left hand but Hightower avoids the punch easily.
Ihantala misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Hightower swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Ihantala misses the jab.
Hightower throws the left hand but Ihantala avoids the punch easily.
Hightower chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Ihantala can pounce on him.
Ihantala takes a swing at Hightower's ribcage but misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala misses with a hook.
Hightower uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Ihantala.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Ihantala.#T1#
Ihantala changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Ihantala connects with a solid leg kick.
Ihantala turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Ihantala lands a nice looking body kick.
Ihantala tries a head kick but it misses.
Ihantala backing away here, and Hightower unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Hightower throws out the jab.
Ihantala pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Ihantala lets loose with a powerful body kick. Hightower will feel that in the morning.
Ihantala has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
Ihantala bobs and weaves and then throws a good body kick.
Hightower looks winded!#T2#
Ihantala looks for the body kick but Hightower saw that one coming.
A countering left hand to the body from Hightower misses.
A punch combination from Ihantala misses.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Hightower! But no joy.
The fighters circle momentarily. Ihantala darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ihantala throws a series of punches but Hightower avoids them all with ease.
A little jabbing left from Hightower on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Hightower is looking to score with low kicks.
Ihantala looks to score with a jab to the body but Hightower is just out of range.
Ihantala throws out a loose jab but Hightower uses good head movement to avoid it.
Hightower let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Hightower throws a lazy uppercut
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand.
Ihantala dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Hightower. That did some damage!#T3#
Ihantala tries a low kick but Hightower avoids it.
Hightower throws out a counter right but Ihantala avoids it with no problem.
Ihantala motions for Hightower to come forward. Ihantala throws a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Hightower fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Hightower throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Ihantala throws a jab when Hightower was well out of range.
Ihantala bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Ihantala fakes the leg kick and cracks Hightower in the body.
Ihantala misses with a straight right.
The fighters circle momentarily. Ihantala darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.#T4#
Ihantala throws the kick towards the body but Hightower avoids it.#KD#
Ihantala lands a left and a right that send Hightower crashing to the mat, dazed. Ihantala thinks about following him to the mat but decides to wave him back up to his feet!#ROC#Hightower is rocked!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala steps in with a hook that catches Hightower right on the chin and knocks him to the floor! Ihantala follows him down with more strikes and that's all she wrote! Hightower looks absolutely devastated.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:20 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
A very excited looking Tali Ihantala made sure he remembered to thank all the fans both in the arena and on the internet. He said all the coolest people spend all day on MMA websites, which got a big reaction.

 

Event: WVT 80: Ihantala v Kersikov     
Date:   Mar 11, 2023
#R1#
Kersikov throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with a stiff right hand.
Ihantala misses with a straight right.
Kersikov stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a double jab
and Kersikov counters with a body kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala misses with a hook.
A jab from Kersikov finds it's way through Ihantala's defenses.
Kersikov throws a body kick that digs right into the meat. #T1#
Kersikov tries to land a front kick but Ihantala steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Kersikov scores with a kick to the midsection.
Ihantala is breathing heavily.
Kersikov looks to land a left hand but Ihantala moved out of range nicely.
A kick lands to the mid section there for Kersikov.
Kersikov fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Ihantala misses with a lunging right hand
enabling Kersikov to counter with a crisp jab. #CUT2#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.#T2#
Kersikov misses with a hook to the body
and Ihantala counters with a two punch combo.
Kersikov throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Ihantala stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Kersikov throws a nice outside leg kick.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Kersikov lands a front kick.
Kersikov lands with a shot to the body.
Kersikov fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Kersikov throws a leg kick
enabling Ihantala to counter with a crisp jab. #T3#
Kersikov scores with a shot to the body.
BAM! Kersikov delivers a spinning backfist that drops Ihantala like a ragdoll! This is all oooooveeeer! He was out before he hit the ground!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:17 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Spinning Backfist). Andrei Kersikov!
Andrei Kersikov is the new super heavyweight champion!
An out of breath Andrei Kersikov thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: WVT 73: Ihantala v Melendov 2     
Date:   Feb 18, 2023
#R1#
Melondov throws a lazy right hand but Ihantala sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Melondov misses with a body shot.
Ihantala is looking to counter punch.
Melondov misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick. #KD2#
Melondov lands a big head kick that sends Ihantala tumbling to the mat! Melondov takes a step backwards and waves Ihantala back to his feet - he wants the finish!#CUT2#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.
Melondov throws a head kick that misses.
Ihantala fires out a quick counter leg kick but Melondov just manages to avoid it.
Ihantala scores with a hook to the body. Melondov takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Melondov tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Ihantala thinks about countering with a head kick.
Melondov walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.#CUT#It looks like Zheko Melondov has been cut.#T1#
Ihantala takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Melondov throws a jab when Ihantala was well out of range.
A quick step to the side and Ihantala tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
A countering left hand to the body from Melondov misses.#CL2#
Melondov clinches with his opponent.
Melondov scores with a nice hook to the head.
Melondov has a couple of punches blocked by Ihantala.
Melondov struggles to land a body shot inside as Ihantala controls his hands.
Ihantala wants to break the clinch but can't.
Ihantala has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.#BC#
Ihantala breaks from the clinch.
A looping hook to the body misses from Ihantala. Melondov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Melondov swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.#T2#
A telegraphed right hand from Melondov misses the target.
Melondov throws a feint and then finishes with a kick to the body.
Melondov throws the kick towards the body but Ihantala avoids it.
Ihantala takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Melondov looks to throw a body kick
and Ihantala counters with a nice body shot.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Melondov pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.#T3#
Crunch! Melondov slams his shin into Ihantala's torso.
Ihantala is breathing heavily.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Melondov misses with a hook. Ihantala ducked under it nicely.
Melondov swings for the body but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Melondov.
It looked like Ihantala wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Melondov dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Melondov throws a sloppy head kick and Ihantala moves out of range easily.
It looked like Ihantala wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.#T4#
Melondov tries to grapple but his opponent circles
and Ihantala counters with a good low kick that Melondov was not able to check.
Melondov throws a jab but it's blocked by Ihantala.
Ihantala appears to be looking for a big counter.
Melondov smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Melondov blocks a jab.
A nice side step and Melondov releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Zheko Melondov dominated that round.
Both fighters have cut men working on them during the interval.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Ihantala blocks the body kick.
Melondov throws a head kick but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Melondov connects with a single shot there.
Ihantala moves into range and connects with a jab.
Ihantala swings widly with a right hand
and Melondov counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Ihantala thinking.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Melondov throws a jab but it's blocked by Ihantala.
Melondov on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.#T1#
Melondov misses with a hook
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Ihantala lands a glancing blow to the side of Melondov's head.
Melondov throws a combination that misses
and Ihantala counters with a nice kick to the body.
Ihantala moves out of range as Melondov strikes.
Melondov misses with a body shot
and Ihantala counters with a nice low kick that buckles Melondov's knee momentarily.
Melondov takes one to the side of the head.
Ihantala getting the better of the striking in that exchange.#T2#
Ihantala misses with a looping right.
A countering left hand to the body from Melondov misses.
Melondov jabs Ihantala to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Ihantala takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Ihantala was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.#KD#
Ihantala lands a left and a right that send Melondov crashing to the mat, dazed. Ihantala thinks about following him to the mat but decides to wave him back up to his feet!#ROC#Melondov is rocked!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ihantala flashes Melondov a smile before throwing a beast of a right hand, straight down the pipe. Melondov's eyes follow the hand right onto his nose, taking in it's full glory... and then darkness. Melondov crumples to the floor! He's out cold! Ihantala punches the air and yells at the top of his lungs - yeeeeeeeeeeah!!!! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:52 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
Tali Ihantala seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: WVT 65: Ihantala v Machado     
Date:   Jan 21, 2023
#R1#
Ihantala takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Machado fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Ihantala looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Machado checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
A slow jab from Machado misses its intended target.
Ihantala thows a left - swing and a miss!
Machado wants to counter the offense by Ihantala and move into the clinch position.
Ihantala misses with an attempted mid kick.
Machado scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Machado misses the shot to the body.
It looked like Ihantala was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Machado.
Ihantala thows a left - swing and a miss! #T1#
Machado lands a nice hook to Ihantala's body. Ihantala takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Machado misses with a double jab.
Ihantala was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Machado takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Machado is looking for the big counter here.
Good leg kick by Ihantala.
Machado misses with a left hand
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Ihantala circles away from the clinch attempt
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand. #CUT#It looks like Wanderson Machado has been cut.#T2##CL2#
Machado moves into the clinch.
Ihantala misses with a short punch on the inside. #BC#
Ihantala escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
A low kick from Machado misses
and Ihantala counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
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!
Machado steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Ihantala.
Nice defenses there by Machado.
Machado misses with an attempted mid kick.
Ihantala swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Machado thuds a left hand into Ihantala's body.#T3#
Machado moves in looking to clinch but Ihantala pushes him off.
Ihantala swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Machado throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Ihantala lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Machado lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Machado wants to clinch.
Machado is looking to take this fight into the clinch.#T4#
Machado needs to keep his hands up - Ihantala had a free shot at his head there.
Machado takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Machado swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
And Ihantala counters with a quick kick to the body but Machado blocks it.#CL2#
Machado closes the distance and pushes Ihantala back into the cage.
A nice left hand lands by Machado.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Ihantala creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut. #CUT#That has opened up Wanderson Machado's cut even more.
Machado tries a body shot but Ihantala blocks it.
Machado tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Ihantala's elbow.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Wanderson Machado will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Wanderson Machado's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Machado throws a lazy uppercut
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Ihantala connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Ihantala throws a solid leg kick but Machado takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Ihantala.
Machado lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.
Machado tries to clinch but Ihantala moves away
and Ihantala counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Ihantala misses with a hook.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Machado, as that shot connected.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Machado is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Ihantala was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.#T1#
Machado connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.#CUT2#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Machado connects with an inside leg kick.
Machado tries to clinch but Ihantala is having none of it.
Ihantala gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Ihantala lands with an overhand left.#CUT#The cut above Wanderson Machado's eye is starting to cause him problems now.#T2#
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Machado.
Machado goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Ihantala throwing a counter right hand but Machado manages to avoid it.
Machado lands with a shot to the body.
Machado lands with a two punch combination before moving back out of range.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Machado ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Ihantala moves away.
Ihantala rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Machado counters with a lovely straight right hand!
The sound of bone on bone echoes around the arena as Ihantala checks a leg kick. #T3#
Ihantala throws a body kick that misses.
Machado unleashes a big counter combination but Ihantala bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Ihantala slips a jab from Machado.
Ihantala lands a kick to the ribs of his opponent. Nice work there - in and out in a flash.
Ihantala avoids the body shot from Machado.
Ihantala swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Ihantala with a hook.
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
Machado throws a lazy right hand but Ihantala sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#T4#
A telegraphed right hand from Ihantala misses the target.
Machado swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Ihantala swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Ihantala sets himself, and Machado steps forward looking for the clinch! Ihantala avoids it this time.
Machado looks to land a right hand but Ihantala moved out of range.
Ihantala moves out of range of the body kick from Machado.
Ihantala throws a quick counter kick to the body but Machado avoids it.
It looks like Ihantala has been trying to sharpen up his punching technique, as it looks crisper than last time we saw him.
Machado throws a head kick that misses
enabling Ihantala to counter with a crisp jab. #CUT#Wanderson Machado's cut is absolute horrible now. This looks like something out of a horror film with blood covering both fighters.

The referee calls the doctor in to look at Wanderson Machado's cut. Oh no, the doctor has called an end to the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:48 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
Our winner, Tali Ihantala, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.

 

Event: WVT 61: Ihantala v McDonald 3     
Date:   Jan 07, 2023
#R1#
Ihantala throws a quick head kick that skims the top of McDonald's head.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut.
Ihantala with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling McDonald to score with a decent uppercut.
Ihantala defending well as McDonald loads up on a big left hand.
Ihantala lands with a nice body punch.
McDonald falls off balance throwing a combination
and Ihantala counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Ihantala works McDonald's body with a nice hook.
Ihantala walks into a stiff left hand from McDonald.
McDonald missing with a left hand there. Ihantala was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Ihantala is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
McDonald takes a jab right on the kisser.
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!
McDonald looks to clinch #KD#
and Ihantala counters with a head kick that drops McDonald to the mat! McDonald scrambles across the canvas and gets back to his feet, still wobbly!
Ihantala throws a sloppy head kick and McDonald moves out of range easily.
Ihantala jabs at McDonald's body.
Ihantala connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
McDonald throws a predictable looking body shot
and Ihantala counters with a huge left! McDonald is in big trouble! He's backing up but Ihantala isn't giving him chance to recover. Under a barage of punches the ref has to step in to save McDonald from any more damage. A dominating finish by Ihantala!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
Tali Ihantala seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.
Jim Bob McDonald spoke after the fight, saying 'A country boy can survive'.

 

Event: WVT 54: Ihantala v Melondov     
Date:   Dec 14, 2022
#R1#
Melondov connects with a body shot.
Melondov lands a front kick.
Melondov feints and then cracks Ihantala's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Ihantala down.
Ihantala tries to land a front kick but Melondov steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Ihantala bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Melondov's head backwards.
Ihantala throws a body shot but no joy.
Melondov feints a counter leg kick.
Melondov throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Ihantala counters with a straight right hand.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Melondov, as that shot connected.
Melondov moves away from the strike by Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a body punch but Melondov moves out of range.
Despite the aggression on Melondov's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.#CL#
Melondov gets tackled into the cage by Ihantala. Ihantala maintains the clinch.
A short right from Melondov.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ihantala blocks an uppercut.
Ihantala wants to break the clinch but can't.
Ihantala swings away with an uppercut that misses. #T1#
Melondov blocks a punch to the side of the head.
A left hand lands to the body for Ihantala.
Melondov misses with a short punch on the inside.
A head punch on the inside from Ihantala fails to land.
Ihantala lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Melondov.
Melondov lands a left hand.
Melondov gets through Ihantala's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
I was talking to Ihantala's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Ihantala blocks a body shot from Melondov.
Melondov misses with a hook to the ribs. #BC#
Ihantala breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Melondov takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Ihantala looks to throw a body kick
and Melondov counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Melondov tries to land a front kick but Ihantala steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Ihantala throws a right hand that misses
and Melondov counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Melondov throws a body kick, spinning off balance
and Ihantala counters with a two punch combo. #T2#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala avoids a kick to the body.
Melondov blocks a jab.
Melondov swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Melondov cracks Ihantala with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Ihantala misses with a few strikes there.
Melondov throws a feint and then finishes with a kick to the body.
Ihantala is breathing heavily.
Melondov misses the shot to the body.
Ihantala throws a quick head kick that skims the top of Melondov's head.
Melondov finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Ihantala throws a hook but Melondov avoids it easily.
Ihantala slips under a jab.#T3#
Ihantala throws a shot to the body.
Melondov tries to score with a low kick but Ihantala moves his leg out of the way.
Ihantala scores with a punch to the head.
Ihantala bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Melondov's head backwards.
A lazy left from Ihantala finds it's target.
Melondov looks to land a body kick but Ihantala moved away.
Ihantala throws a head kick that Melondov semi-blocks.
A nice leg kick from Melondov, right into the meat of the thigh.
Ihantala throws a sloppy head kick
and Melondov counters with a good, hard body kick but Ihantala shrugs it off.
The fighters circling - Melondov throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Melondov dodges the punch combination from Ihantala. #T4#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ihantala throws a hook but Melondov blocks it.
Melondov scores with a leg kick.
Ihantala lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.
Ihantala throws a front kick that sends Melondov stumbling back into the cage.
Melondov thows a leg kick but Ihantala checks it
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Ihantala throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Melondov's corner calls for a 1-2. Melondov obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Melondov throws a half hearted mid kick.
A counter left hand to the body from Ihantala misses its target.
Ihantala throws a lazy uppercut
and Melondov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Tali Ihantala will probably get the nod.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Ihantala's corner calls for a 1-2. Ihantala obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Ihantala rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Melondov moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Ihantala moves out of range as Melondov strikes.
A head kick by Melondov misses
and Ihantala counters with a stiff right hand.
Melondov blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
A big left from Ihantala misses.
Melondov unleashes a big counter combination but Ihantala bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
Melondov comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Melondov thuds a mid kick into his opponent's body. That will wear on Ihantala if he has to take too many more of those.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala misses with a looping right.
Melondov connects with an inside leg kick.
Ihantala misses with a low kick.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Melondov misses with the combination. #T1#
Melondov lands a leg kick that knocks Ihantala off balance momentarily.
Melondov scores with a nice head shot.
Melondov pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
A head kick misses from Melondov.
A slow jab from Melondov misses its intended target.
Melondov misses with a left hand
and Ihantala counters with a three punch combo that has Melondov backing up. Melondov nods at Ihantala to acknowledge the strikes.
Melondov moves out of range as Ihantala strikes.
Ihantala looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.#T2#
Ihantala cracks Melondov with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Ihantala connects with a body shot that sends Melondov's belly button to the back.
Melondov throws a head kick but Ihantala moves out of range.
Melondov blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
A decent looking cross lands there for Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a hook. Melondov ducked under it nicely.
Ihantala uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Melondov.
Melondov misses with a hook. Ihantala ducked under it nicely.
A big left from Melondov misses.
Ihantala moves out of range of the body kick from Melondov.
It looked like Ihantala wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Melondov moves out of range as Ihantala strikes.#T3#
Nice uppercut lands for Melondov. That snapped Ihantala's head back.
Ihantala gets off balance looking for a body kick
and Melondov counters with a straight right hand.
A head kick misses from Ihantala. #CL#
Ihantala closes the distance and clinches.
Ihantala makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Melondov fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch.
Melondov swings wildly with an uppercut but Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid it.
Ihantala lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.#BC#
Ihantala breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Melondov lands a jab to the nose.
Melondov takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.#T4##CL#
Ihantala forces Melondov back against the cage and clinches.
Ihantala's legs have taken a beating and he's really slowing down as a result.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Ihantala lands a left hand.
Ihantala working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Melondov controls his hands.
Melondov tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Ihantala throws a head punch that misses.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Ihantala.
Ihantala blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Tali Ihantala has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Ihantala doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Melondov stalling in the clinch but Ihantala improves position.
Melondov's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!#BC2#
Melondov breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Ihantala tries a head kick but it misses.
Melondov scores with a punch to the head.
Both fighters circling a little - Melondov finishes the exchange with a kick to the body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Tali Ihantala will probably get the nod.
That's time! Back to the action!#R3#
Melondov scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Ihantala buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Ihantala takes a swing at Melondov's ribcage but misses.
A little jabbing left from Melondov on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Ihantala takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Melondov scores with a leg kick.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Melondov is looking to slow Ihantala down with leg kicks.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Melondov gets off balance looking for a body kick
and Ihantala counters with a straight right hand.
Zheko Melondov seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Melondov paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Melondov throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle. #T1#
Ihantala staying out of range there.
Good shot there by Ihantala.
A big left from Melondov misses.
Ihantala misses with a head kick.
Melondov looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Nice straight punches there by Melondov. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Melondov.
Ihantala uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Melondov.
Melondov misses with a lunging right hand #CL#
and Ihantala counters into the clinch. Nicely done.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Melondov presses Ihantala against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Ihantala lands a left hand that snaps the head of Melondov backwards.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Melondov.
Melondov is looking to break free of the clinch but Ihantala has double underhooks. #T2#
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Melondov.
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch.
Ihantala lands a nice shot to the body.
A left hand lands to the body for Ihantala.
Ihantala lands a nice shot to the body.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Melondov lands a left hand that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards.
Ihantala has a couple of punches blocked by Melondov.
Ihantala lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Melondov struggles to land a body shot inside as Ihantala controls his hands.
Melondov swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Still in the clinch, Ihantala scores with a nice short uppercut.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Melondov.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Melondov.
Melondov trying to control the position but instead, Ihantala has worked for underhooks and has pushed Melondov into the cage.
Ihantala lands a right hand. #T3#
Ihantala lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Melondov lands a left hand.
A nice left hand lands by Ihantala.
A short left from Melondov.
Ihantala lands an uppercut.#BC2#
Melondov breaks the clinch.
Ihantala cracks Melondov with an open hand slap.
Ihantala explodes with a nice body kick and back out of range. Nice work.
Melondov takes one on the button.#ROC#Melondov is rocked!
Melondov drops his hands momentarily and Ihantala needs no second invitation. He sets himself and throws a perfect high kick, that clips Melondov just on the top of the head. Melondov drops like a sack of potatoes to the canvas, out cold! Oooooooh yeah! Stick a fork in Melondov - he's done!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:46 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Head Kick). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
An out of breath Tali Ihantala thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: WVT 49: Ihantala v Svyatogor     
Date:   Nov 25, 2022
#R1#
Svyatogor swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Svyatogor just misses with a punch to the body.
Svyatogor misses with an uppercut. Ihantala saw that one coming.
Svyatogor takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Svyatogor misses with a hook
and Ihantala counters with a solid body kick.
Ihantala throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Ihantala has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
A big right from Svyatogor misses.
Svyatogor dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Svyatogor takes a swing at Ihantala's ribcage but misses.
A swing and a miss from Ihantala.
Svyatogor throws a series of punches but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala throwing a counter right hand but Svyatogor manages to avoid it.#T1#
Ihantala lands an overhand right.
Svyatogor throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
It looked like Ihantala was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
Svyatogor moves away from the strike by Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a predictable looking body shot
enabling Svyatogor to counter with a crisp jab.
Ihantala looks to throw the jab but Svyatogor is out of range.
Svyatogor throws a jab but it's blocked by Ihantala.
It looked like Ihantala wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Ihantala throws a head kick but Svyatogor moves out of range.
Ihantala scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Ihantala uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Svyatogor has time to react.
Svyatogor misses with a wild body shot. #T2#
Ihantala jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Ihantala fakes a right and follows up with a big left that drops Svyatogor to one knee - oooooh, he's wobbly! Svyatogor looks to clinch but Ihantala throws him off and pummels him into the canvas! Svyatogor taps out under the strikes! The fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:14 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
Our winner, Tali Ihantala, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.

 

Event: WVT 43: Ihantala v Meat Boy     
Date:   Nov 04, 2022
#R1##CL#
Ihantala rushes Meat Boy and presses him up against the cage.
Ihantala misses with a short punch on the inside.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Meat Boy throws a head punch that misses.
Ihantala blocking some punches.
Meat Boy tries to work over Ihantala's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Ihantala blocking some punches.
Ihantala scores with a shoulder strike. #CUT#It looks like Super Meat Boy has been cut.
Meat Boy goes for a body shot but it's blocked. #BC#
Ihantala breaks from the clinch.
Ihantala slips a straight right by Meat Boy.
Ihantala appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.#CL2#
Meat Boy moves into the clinch successfully.
Meat Boy wants to break the clinch but can't.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Meat Boy.
Meat Boy misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Ihantala tries to work over Meat Boy's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
I was talking to Ihantala's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
A short right from Ihantala on the inside.
Meat Boy pushes Ihantala back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Ihantala misses with the head strike.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala misses with the head strike.
Meat Boy works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Ihantala lands with a left to the head.
Meat Boy is trying to break the clinch but Ihantala has him pressed against the cage. #BC#
Ihantala breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance. #T1#
Meat Boy throws the left hand but Ihantala avoids the punch easily.
A head kick from Ihantala lands but Meat Boy takes it in his stride.
Meat Boy tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Ihantala keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Meat Boy misses with an uppercut
and Ihantala counters with a nice low kick that buckles Meat Boy's knee momentarily.
Ihantala checks the leg kick.
Ihantala lifts his leg as if looking to counter with a high kick.
Meat Boy paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Meat Boy tries to close the distance and clinch but Ihantala swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Meat Boy lands a head kick. Ihantala smiles back at him and beckons him forward.
Ihantala looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Meat Boy tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ihantala was well out of range. Poor timing from Meat Boy.
Meat Boy pivots, looking for a leg kick but Ihantala is out of range and Meat Boy settles back down.
Ihantala scores with a hook to the body. Meat Boy takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Meat Boy wants to clinch up but Ihantala keeps it at a distance.
Meat Boy tries to clinch up but Ihantala circles away and keeps his distance.#CL#
Ihantala closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Meat Boy misses with a punch on the inside. #T2#
A short right from Ihantala on the inside.
Ihantala lands a right hand.
Ihantala has a couple of punches blocked by Meat Boy.
A short left from Meat Boy.
Ihantala misses with a body punch.
A frustrated look appears on Meat Boy's face as he tries to break the clinch.
Ihantala softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Meat Boy lands with a light punch inside.
Ihantala scores with a nice hook to the head.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Ihantala. #BC2#
Meat Boy breaks from the clinch. #CL2#
Meat Boy gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Meat Boy fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
A shot in the inside from Ihantala.
Meat Boy takes a shot to the head.
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Meat Boy controls his hands.
Ihantala lands a right hand.
Meat Boy lands a nice uppercut.
Meat Boy blocks an uppercut.
Ihantala throws a head punch that misses. #T3#
Ihantala misses with a shot to the kidneys. #BC2#
Meat Boy breaks the clinch. #CL2#
Meat Boy takes the fight into the clinch.
A head punch on the inside from Meat Boy fails to land.
Ihantala tries to throw a body punch but Meat Boy avoids it by throwing Ihantala back against the cage.
A hook to the body from Ihantala.
Ihantala blocking some punches.
Ihantala lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Ihantala doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Meat Boy presses Ihantala against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Meat Boy creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses.
Ihantala scores with a shot to the side of Meat Boy's head.
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Meat Boy controls his hands.
Ihantala lands a right hand.
Meat Boy prevents a body shot from Ihantala.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Ihantala.
Ihantala tries to throw a body punch but Meat Boy avoids it by throwing Ihantala back against the cage.
Ihantala tries to work over Meat Boy's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target. #BC2#
Meat Boy escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Meat Boy fails with an attempt to clinch. #T4##KD#
Ihantala lands a big right hand that sends Meat Boy crashing to the mat! Ihantala stays standing though and waves Meat Boy back to his feet!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Meat Boy tries to clinch but Ihantala is having none of it. #CL2#
Meat Boy forces Ihantala back against the cage and clinches.
Ihantala is leaning against Meat Boy and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Ihantala lands a hook that snaps the head of Meat Boy backwards. #CUT#That has opened up Super Meat Boy's cut even more.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Meat Boy misses with a short punch on the inside.
A head punch on the inside from Ihantala fails to land.
Meat Boy looking to slow down the pace here.
Ihantala lands a nice uppercut.
Ihantala lands a nice shot to the body.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body.
Meat Boy tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Ihantala's elbow.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Ihantala pushes Meat Boy back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.#ROC#Meat Boy is rocked!
Meat Boy tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Meat Boy is still on wobbly legs! Can Ihantala finish him?
Ihantala lands a body shot.
Meat Boy seems to have recovered his senses.
Meat Boy looks winded!
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Meat Boy's elbow.
Ihantala lands a nice uppercut.
Ihantala dips a shoulder and cracks Meat Boy with a mighty uppercut! Meat Boy falls back against the cage and Ihantala unloads with a barrage of strikes! Meat Boy is completely out with his eyes open, only supported by the cage! Save him ref! Eventually the ref decides to do his job and jumps in - Ihantala screams abuse at the incompetent official before going over to celebrate with his corner. Brutal stuff!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
Tali Ihantala seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: WVT 39: McDonald v Ihantala 2     
Date:   Oct 16, 2022
#R1#
McDonald avoids the body shot from Ihantala.
McDonald lands with an overhand left.
McDonald throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
McDonald looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
McDonald lands a vicious shot with the stealth of a sniper and the strength of a viper. Are vipers that strong? I can think of lots of things that are stronger than a viper - not many rhyme with sniper though. #CL2#
Ihantala moves into the clinch.
McDonald presses Ihantala against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
A nice right hand lands inside from McDonald.
McDonald gets through Ihantala's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
McDonald swings away with an uppercut that misses.
A short left from Ihantala.
McDonald prevents a body shot from Ihantala.
McDonald tries a body shot but Ihantala blocks it.
A short left from Ihantala.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
McDonald misses with the head strike.
Ihantala tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A right hook to the body lands for Ihantala.
Nice body punch from Ihantala - that landed with a thud.
Ihantala lands a left hand that snaps the head of McDonald backwards.
McDonald scores with an uppercut up the middle.
A short uppercut from McDonald.
McDonald lands a right hand that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards. #T1##BC2#
Ihantala pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
McDonald staying out of range there.
Ihantala scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as McDonald throws out the jab. #CL#
McDonald clinches up with Ihantala and pushes him back against the cage.
McDonald misses with a hook from the clinch.
Ihantala lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked. #BC2#
Ihantala breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
McDonald waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Ihantala.
Ihantala moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Nice shot by McDonald.
Ihantala scores with a nice right hand.
Ihantala connects with a nice looking jab.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Ihantala slips under a jab from McDonald.
Ihantala connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe. #T2#
McDonald rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Ihantala counters with a thumping low kick.
McDonald swings for the body but Ihantala moves out of range.
McDonald takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Ihantala connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed McDonald momentarily.
McDonald tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ihantala was well out of range. Poor timing from McDonald.
A kick lands to the mid section there for Ihantala.
McDonald misses with an uppercut. Ihantala saw that one coming.
Jim Bob McDonald seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Ihantala thumps McDonald with a low kick.
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as McDonald throws out the jab.
Ihantala looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Good exchange - Ihantala coming out on top.
Ihantala moves forwards but McDonald connects with a nice, crisp jab.
McDonald blocks a leg kick.
Ihantala misses with a hook. McDonald ducked under it nicely.
McDonald throwing a counter right hand but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as McDonald throws out the jab. #T3#
Nice defenses there by Ihantala.
McDonald misses with a hook.
McDonald throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala counters with a straight right hand.#CL#
McDonald drives through and clinches with Ihantala against the cage.
McDonald makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
McDonald misses with a shot to the kidneys.
McDonald misses with a short punch on the inside.
McDonald blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
McDonald blocks a body shot from Ihantala.
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with McDonald's elbow.
McDonald blocks a body shot from Ihantala.
McDonald blocks an uppercut.
Ihantala lands a nice uppercut.
A short left from Ihantala.
Ihantala tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
McDonald lands a left hand that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards.
McDonald lands a body shot in the clinch.
Ihantala has a couple of punches blocked by McDonald.
This has been an exciting period of action!
McDonald lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.#T4#
Ihantala throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
Ihantala blocks a body shot from McDonald.
A nice left hand lands by Ihantala.
McDonald blocking some punches.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for McDonald.
Ihantala gets through McDonald's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
McDonald blocks a punch to the side of the head.
McDonald tries to throw a body punch but Ihantala avoids it by throwing McDonald back against the cage.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
McDonald can't find room to land a body shot as Ihantala controls the action.
A quick uppercut on the inside from McDonald.
Ihantala misses with a hook to the ribs.
Ihantala lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Ihantala lands a body punch.
Ihantala pushes McDonald back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Ihantala blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Ihantala can't find room to land a body shot as McDonald controls the action.
Ihantala misses with a body punch.
Ihantala misses with the head strike.
Ihantala lands a body punch in the clinch.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
McDonald tries to clinch up but Ihantala circles away and keeps his distance.
McDonald misses with a lunging right hand
and McDonald takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #CUT2#It looks like Jim Bob McDonald has been cut.
Ihantala has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
McDonald jabbing away but nothing is landing.
McDonald takes one to the chin there.
Nice uppercut there from McDonald.
A solid body kick from Ihantala.
McDonald shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Ihantala avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
The fighters circling - McDonald throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Ihantala lands a nice looking body kick.
Ihantala misses with a looping right.
It looked like McDonald was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
McDonald misses with a hook.
Ihantala swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
McDonald swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Ihantala cracks McDonald with a nasty uppercut that draws ooohs from the crowd and sends McDonald tumbling backwards onto the mat. He tries to recover but Ihantala pounces and lands a hail of unanswered strikes that forces the referee to step in to end the fight! McDonald is not happy but he gave the referee no choice!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:59 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala is the new super heavyweight champion!
An out of breath Tali Ihantala thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.
The defeated Jim Bob McDonald had this to say: 'A country boy can survive'.

 

Event: WVT 31: Ihantala v Honda     
Date:   Sep 07, 2022
#R1#
A telegraphed right hand from Ihantala misses the target.
Ihantala throws a lazy right hand but Honda sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Honda moves into range and connects with a jab.
Ihantala tries a head kick but it misses.
Nice uppercut lands for Honda. That snapped Ihantala's head back.
Honda throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Ihantala's waist but Ihantala gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Honda off to one side.
Good work by Ihantala as he checks the leg kick.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Honda.
Honda throws a chopping leg kick but Ihantala manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Honda delivers a nice body kick.
Ihantala swings and misses with a hook to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Honda lands with a straight right. Ihantala didn't see that one coming.
A decent looking cross lands there for Honda.
Honda has been spending a lot of time sparring his boxing in the run up to the fight, trying to sharpen up those hands and look for a knockout.
Honda throws a quick head kick that skims the top of Ihantala's head.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Honda scores with a body shot. #T1#
Honda throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Ihantala appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
Ihantala connects with a solid leg kick.
Honda shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Ihantala pinned against the cage. Ihantala gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Tali Ihantala has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Edmond Honda.
Ihantala checks a leg kick.
Ihantala scores with a hook to the body. Honda takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Ihantala throws a nice inside leg kick.
Honda throws a head kick but Ihantala moves out of range.
As Honda tries to get set, Ihantala tries to push him back and clinch up but Honda manages to avoid the attempt.
Honda misses with a series of wild punches.
Ihantala has been working on his boxing with his coaches at ubergym in the buildup to the fight.
Ihantala throws a half hearted mid kick.
Honda scores with a hook.
Ihantala throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand. #CUT#It looks like Edmond Honda has been cut.
Honda throws a lazy uppercut
and Honda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Ihantala throws a head kick that looked like it stung. #CUT#That has opened up Edmond Honda's cut even more.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Honda throws a lazy head kick
and Ihantala counters with a lovely shot to the body.#T2#
Honda throws a series of punches but Ihantala avoids them all with ease.
Honda fails to land the takedown.
Ihantala lands with a slapping head kick.
Honda shoots and misses
and Ihantala counters with a stiff right hand. #CUT#The cut above Edmond Honda's eye is starting to cause him problems now.#KD#
Ihantala lands a big right hand that sends Honda crashing to the mat! Ihantala stays standing though and waves Honda back to his feet!
Honda throws a jab when Ihantala was well out of range.
Ihantala throws a quick counter head kick but Honda was just out of range.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses.
A big right from Honda misses.
Honda misses with a head kick. #TD2#
Honda drives through with a takedown into guard.
Ihantala seems keen to control Honda's posture.#T3#
Honda throwing strikes but missing.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Honda slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Ihantala parries the strikes from Honda easily there. Honda is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Ihantala to escape. #T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
You can see the frustration on Ihantala's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Ihantala is trying to get back to half guard.
Honda trying to control the position but Ihantala is working away.
Ihantala manages to land a sweep and he's now on top! Lovely Jiu Jitsu!
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Honda is looking for a sweep. Ihantala is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#SUB2#
Ihantala moves into side control, avoiding a weak kimura attempt from Honda.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Edmond Honda's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2##TD2#
Honda scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Honda sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Ihantala defending well though.
Ihantala blocking the ground and pound attempt from Honda.
Ihantala avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Honda. #SUB2#
Honda is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Ihantala doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Honda.
Ihantala has his hands clasped together around Honda's back. He's all about the action.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala is trying to control but can't. #T1#
Honda slips a nice elbow through Ihantala's hands, connecting with Ihantala's forehead.
Ihantala wants to improve his position but Honda is controlling well.
Ihantala regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Honda.
Honda throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Ihantala works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Ihantala is pulling down on Honda's head. It's preventing any offense from Honda, at least for the moment.
Ihantala's ground tactics aren't going to win him many fans. Let's hope he's got fireworks for us if he gets back to his feet because he's not doing much on the ground.#T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Honda scoring with punches to the head and body.
Honda trying to control the position from guard on top but Ihantala is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Honda tries to free his leg and advance position but Ihantala is retaining full guard.
Honda loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Honda tries to free his leg and advance position but Ihantala is retaining full guard.
Ihantala working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Honda.
Ihantala controls Honda momentarily but Honda frees himself. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Tali Ihantala is winning the standup battle so far.
Honda throws a sloppy head kick
and Ihantala counters with a nice uppercut. #T3#
Ihantala blocks the body kick.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Honda lands a leg kick that knocks Ihantala off balance momentarily.
Tali Ihantala is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Honda tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Ihantala defends well and Honda ends up having to push Ihantala into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Honda uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Ihantala.
Honda takes a swing at Ihantala's ribcage but misses.
Honda misses with a right hand
and Honda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
A shot to the body from Honda misses #CL#
and Ihantala moves into the clinch.
Ihantala is leaning against Honda and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Ihantala lands with a right to the head. #CUT#Edmond Honda's cut is absolute horrible now. This looks like something out of a horror film with blood covering both fighters.
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Honda's elbow.
Honda can't break the clinch.
Honda tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Ihantala misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Ihantala is pressed up against the cage. Honda has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Ihantala down to the mat. Ihantala avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Honda closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.

The referee calls the doctor in to look at Edmond Honda's cut. Oh no, the doctor has called an end to the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:55 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Tali Ihantala!
A victorious Tali Ihantala thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.
In defeat, Edmond Honda stepped up to the mic, saying 'You must defeat Sheng Long to stand a chance!'.

 

Event: WVT 25: Ihantala v McDonald     
Date:   Aug 14, 2022
#R1##CL2#
McDonald clinches up against the cage.
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with McDonald's elbow.
Ihantala tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
A short right hand to the side of the head by McDonald.
A body shot lands from Ihantala.
McDonald struggles to land a body shot inside as Ihantala controls his hands.
McDonald pushes Ihantala back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Ihantala.
McDonald's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Ihantala misses with a punch on the inside.
Ihantala misses with a short punch on the inside.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body.
McDonald tries to work over Ihantala's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target. #TD2#
McDonald jumps guard.
McDonald looking to hit a scissor sweep but Ihantala is one step ahead there.
McDonald keeps trying to improve his position.
Ihantala trying to control but McDonald is working from the bottom. #T1#
McDonald looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
McDonald is trying to control the position but Ihantala postures up.
Ihantala engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now McDonald is on top in guard. #REVB#
Ihantala has control of McDonald's left arm, preventing McDonald from doing any damage.
McDonald trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
McDonald missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Ihantala pulls McDonald in close to prevent any damage. #T2#
McDonald stands up over Ihantala, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Ihantala keeping full guard, as McDonald tries to pass.
McDonald throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
McDonald chips away with some ground and pound.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing McDonald from controlling successfully.
McDonald pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Ihantala is keeping the position for now.
Ihantala avoiding any damage from the ground and pound. #T3#
Ihantala utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
McDonald stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Ihantala swivels though and keeps the full guard.
McDonald postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Ihantala controls McDonald momentarily but McDonald frees himself.
Ihantala working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from McDonald.
McDonald trying to control the position from guard on top but Ihantala is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
McDonald landing some decent shots from guard. #T4#
McDonald pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Ihantala is keeping the position for now.
McDonald working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
McDonald lands a couple of decent looking shots.
McDonald has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
McDonald tries to free his leg and advance position but Ihantala is retaining full guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
McDonald landing with the ground and pound.
Ihantala avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
McDonald connects with a couple of short punches.
Ihantala trying to control the position.
McDonald loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jim Bob McDonald dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
McDonald looks to land a left hand but Ihantala moved out of range nicely.
McDonald misses the jab.
Ihantala with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Ihantala scores with a body shot.
Ihantala uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by McDonald.
McDonald throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
McDonald misses with a combination
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
McDonald ducks under a wild hook from Ihantala.
McDonald misses with a wild body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
McDonald lands a jab to the head.
Ihantala connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Ihantala lands with a slapping head kick.
Ihantala uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from McDonald.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Ihantala throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Jim Bob McDonald seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#T1#
Ihantala pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
McDonald keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
McDonald wants to clinch.
Ihantala connects with an inside leg kick.
Ihantala throws a head kick but McDonald moves out of range.
A nice side step and McDonald releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Ihantala takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Good shot there by Ihantala.
McDonald lands a jab.
McDonald throws a hook but Ihantala blocks it.
McDonald misses with a jab to the body
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#T2#
Good standup being displayed there by McDonald as he connects with a hook.
McDonald blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
McDonald digs a good hook to Ihantala's body.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nice straight punches there by McDonald. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of McDonald.
McDonald has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
McDonald lands a slapping body shot.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Ihantala defending well as McDonald loads up on a big left hand.
McDonald lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Jab by Ihantala.
McDonald fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Donk. McDonald catches Ihantala right on the button with a cross.
Ihantala tries to grapple but his opponent circles
letting McDonald counter with a right hand. #T3##CL2#
McDonald moves into the clinch successfully.
McDonald misses with a shot to the kidneys.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for McDonald.
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
McDonald throws a punch but it's blocked by Ihantala.
Ihantala prevents a body shot from McDonald.
Ihantala blocks an uppercut.
Ihantala lands on the inside with an uppercut.
A frustrated look appears on McDonald's face as he tries to break the clinch.
Ihantala lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
McDonald has been looking to improve his clinch game in recent weeks. Ihantala seems to have the measure of him in the clinch so far, so let's see if McDonald can turn it around.#BC#
Ihantala manages to break the clinch.
Ihantala keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
McDonald lands with a nice body punch.
Ihantala throws a half hearted mid kick.
McDonald lands with a shot to the body.
McDonald misses with a hook to the body
and Ihantala counters with a thumping low kick. #CL2#
McDonald gets in close and instigates a clinch.
McDonald misses with a hook to the ribs. #T4##BC2#
McDonald breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Jim Bob McDonald seems to be getting the better of the standup.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
McDonald lands a jab, followed by a cross and another cross, as Ihantala backs up against the cage.
McDonald swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Ihantala.
Donk. Ihantala catches McDonald right on the button with a cross.
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Ihantala seemed to be looking to counter by closing the distance.
McDonald throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Ihantala tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
A telegraphed right hand from McDonald misses the target.
Ihantala is trying to close the distance and clinch up, after that failed offence from McDonald.
McDonald connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Ihantala momentarily.
McDonald cracks Ihantala with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
McDonald misses the shot to the body.
Ihantala appears to be looking for a big counter.
McDonald avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Ihantala swats away the attempt to clinch by McDonald.
Ihantala throwing a counter right hand but McDonald manages to avoid it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jim Bob McDonald showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R3#
A looping hook to the body misses from McDonald. Ihantala does a little dance to reset his feet.
McDonald misses with an uppercut.
McDonald tries to clinch but Ihantala moves out of range.
McDonald just manages to avoid a counter high kick fromIhantala.
Ihantala throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and McDonald counters with a stiff right hand.
McDonald moves in looking to clinch but Ihantala pushes him off.
Ihantala fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Ihantala thows a left - swing and a miss!
McDonald with a body punch. A glancing blow.
McDonald misses with a wild body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala lands with a good body shot.
A looping hook to the body misses from McDonald. Ihantala does a little dance to reset his feet.
Ihantala throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Ihantala looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #T1#
McDonald throws a body punch but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Ihantala fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches McDonald on the side of the head.
McDonald scores with a hook.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from McDonald.
McDonald thuds a left hand into Ihantala's body.
McDonald lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Ihantala walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
McDonald tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ihantala was well out of range. Poor timing from McDonald.
McDonald scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
McDonald lands with a nice combination. Ihantala backs away looking to recover.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
McDonald lands with a good body shot.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
McDonald throws a hook to the side of Ihantala's head but Ihantala sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.#T2#
Ihantala closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so. #ROC2#Ihantala is rocked!
Ihantala moves out of range of the strikes.
An attempted straight right counter from Ihantala misses the target.
Ihantala misses with a straight right. #CL2#
McDonald gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
McDonald misses with a shot to the kidneys.
McDonald lands a nice shot to the body. #BC2#
McDonald escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
McDonald throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
McDonald takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
McDonald digs a good body shot into Ihantala's ribs.#CL2#
McDonald moves into the clinch.
McDonald is trying to pull guard but being pressed up against the cage enables Ihantala to keep the fight standing.#BC2#
McDonald breaks the clinch.
Ihantala moves away from the strike by McDonald.
A lazy body kick from Ihantala
and McDonald counters with a right hand to the body. #T3#
McDonald dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Ihantala misses with a left hand #KD2#
and Ihantala is countered with a crisp right hand from McDonald that sends him to the canvas! McDonald follows him to the mat into side control.
Oh Ihantala is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
McDonald landing strikes.
McDonald cracks Ihantala with a big elbow. Oh, he's hurt! McDonald immediately mounts and start dropping bombs! Ihantala is done! The referee jumps in and saves him from any more punishment - a quick and decisive finish by McDonald!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:36 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Jim Bob McDonald!
Jim Bob McDonald is the new super heavyweight champion!
An out of breath Jim Bob McDonald thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

 

Event: WVT 19: Ihantala v Motts     
Date:   Jul 24, 2022
#R1#
Motts throws the left hand but Ihantala avoids the punch easily.
Ihantala gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Motts throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Motts.
Ihantala fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Motts has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Ihantala swings widly with a right hand
and Motts counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
A head kick from Ihantala lands but Motts takes it in his stride.
Ihantala delivers a nice body kick.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut.
Motts misses with an uppercut
and Ihantala counters with a leg kick that reverborates around the arena.
Ihantala tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Motts paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Ihantala with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Motts to score with a decent uppercut.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala defending well as Motts loads up on a big left hand. #T1#
Motts throws a hook to the side of Ihantala's head but Ihantala sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Motts throws a jab when Ihantala was well out of range.
Ihantala misses the shot to the body.
Motts avoids the head kick by Ihantala.
Ihantala connects with the punch.
Motts jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Ihantala is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Motts throws a hook to the side of Ihantala's head but Ihantala sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Motts throws a hook but Ihantala avoids it easily.
Motts throws a right hand that misses
and Ihantala counters with a stiff right hand.
Motts might want to mix his strikes up a bit more. He's just going for head shots at the moment and that can become a bit predictable.#CL#
Ihantala moves into range and clinches up with Motts.
Ihantala tries to work over Motts's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target. #T2#
Ihantala lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Ihantala tries to throw a body punch but Motts avoids it by throwing Ihantala back against the cage.
Ihantala misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Ihantala tries to work over Motts's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Motts's elbow.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Motts.
Motts tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Ihantala has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
Motts takes a shot to the head.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Motts controls his hands.
Ihantala tries to work over Motts's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Motts doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Motts lands a hook to the side of the head.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Ihantala scores with a hook to the body.
Ihantala blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Ihantala throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Mottss head.
Ihantala swings away with an uppercut that misses.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Ihantala.
Motts has a couple of punches blocked by Ihantala.
Ihantala gets through Motts's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Motts blocks a body shot from Ihantala. #T3#
Motts misses with a hook to the ribs.
Ihantala misses with a body punch.
Motts lands with a left to the head.
Motts swings away with an uppercut that misses.
A right hook to the body lands for Ihantala.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Motts.
Ihantala blocks a body shot from Motts.
Ihantala lands with a left to the head.
A nice right hand lands inside from Motts.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Motts.
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch.
A short right from Motts on the inside.
Ihantala tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Ihantala blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Motts can't find room to land a body shot as Ihantala controls the action.
Motts throws a head punch that misses.
Ihantala scores with a shot to the side of Motts's head.
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Motts's elbow.
Ihantala misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Nice body punch from Ihantala. #T4#
Motts throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Ihantalas head.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Motts tries a body shot but Ihantala blocks it.
Ihantala lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Ihantala digs a right hand into Motts's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Motts's gas tank.
Motts looks winded!
Ihantala lands a nice uppercut.
Motts doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Ihantala tries to work over Motts's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Motts prevents a body shot from Ihantala.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Motts tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Motts has a couple of punches blocked by Ihantala.
Motts lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Ihantala lands a right hand.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Ihantala.
Motts prevents a body shot from Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
A short right from Ihantala on the inside.
Motts misses with a body punch.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Motts lands a vicious shot with the stealth of a sniper and the strength of a viper. Are vipers that strong? I can think of lots of things that are stronger than a viper - not many rhyme with sniper though.
Ihantala throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Motts throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Motts connects with a nice looking jab.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut. Motts saw that one coming.
Motts connects with a single shot there.
Motts uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Ihantala.
A jab from Motts finds it's way through Ihantala's defenses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Motts with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Ihantala to score with a decent uppercut.
Motts tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ihantala was well out of range. Poor timing from Motts.
Ihantala slips under a jab from Motts.
Ihantala tries to clinch up but Motts circles away and keeps his distance.#T1#
Ihantala throws a nice head kick!
Ihantala swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Motts looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Ihantala moves away from the strike by Motts.
Ihantala slips a straight right by Motts.
Ihantala connects with a body shot.
Motts waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Ihantala.
An attempted straight right counter from Ihantala misses the target.
Ihantala missing with a left hand there. Motts was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Ihantala defending well as Motts loads up on a big left hand.
Ihantala thinks about countering with a head kick.
Ihantala throws an overhand right that lands on Motts's shoulder, as Motts tries to avoid the shot.
Motts is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Ihantala.
Ihantala is looking to counter the offense by Motts and move into the clinch.
Motts misses with a body shot. #T2#
A big right from Motts misses.
Motts throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala counters with a stiff right hand.
Ihantala connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
A telegraphed right hand from Motts misses the target.
An attempted straight right counter from Ihantala misses the target.
A looping hook to the body misses from Ihantala. Motts does a little dance to reset his feet.
Ihantala keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Motts.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ihantala fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Ihantala changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Motts catches Ihantala with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Motts digs a good body shot into Ihantala's ribs.
Nice uppercut lands for Ihantala. That snapped Motts's head back. #T3#
Ihantala with a jab.
Motts blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
Motts looks to land a left hand but Ihantala moved out of range nicely.
Ihantala lands a big right hook! Motts looks hurt but is still standing! Ihantala lands a left jab and another right hook! This time Motts falls down and Ihantala dives in with a huge hammer fist! Motts's eyes roll back! The referee calls for the bell and Ihantala runs up the cage to celebrate with his fans!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:25 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Punches). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
After winning the bout, Tali Ihantala thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: WVT 14: Ihantala v Mogg     
Date:   Jul 06, 2022
#R1#
Ihantala takes one on the chin but seems OK. #KD#
Ihantala lands a left and a right that send Rees Mogg crashing to the mat, dazed. Ihantala thinks about following him to the mat but decides to wave him back up to his feet!#ROC#Rees Mogg is rocked!#CUT#It looks like Jacob Rees Mogg has been cut.
Ihantala has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
Rees Mogg drops his hands momentarily. Ihantala doesn't need a second invitation, landing a shot to the temple. Rees Mogg staggers and falls to the mat and the ref dives in to save him from any more punishment. Rees Mogg doesn't seem happy with the stoppage but he was done.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:11 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
After winning the bout, Tali Ihantala thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.
In defeat, Jacob Rees Mogg stepped up to the mic, saying 'Humpty Dumpty would approve.'.

 

Event: WVT 10: Ihantala v Puto     
Date:   Jun 19, 2022
#R1#
Puto uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Ihantala.
Puto only half commits to the counter leg kick.#TD2#
Puto throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Ihantala tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Puto is in Ihantala's guard.
Ihantala is controlling Puto's posture.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Puto from controlling successfully.
Ihantala has his hands on Puto's head, controlling the position.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Puto from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Puto sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Ihantala's guard. #T1#
Puto not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Ihantala controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.
Puto is trying to control the action in half guard but Ihantala is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Puto not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Puto is looking to stall here but Ihantala recovers full guard.
Puto looking to pass the guard.
Puto trying to control but Ihantala is working from the bottom. #T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Puto trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Puto trying to control the position from guard on top but Ihantala is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.#REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.#CL#
Ihantala moves into the clinch.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body.
Puto missing with knees to the body.
Puto blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Ihantala has a couple of punches blocked by Puto.
Ihantala swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Ihantala doesn't land with the attempted body shot. #T3#
Puto wants to break free. God knows he wants to breaaaak freeee.
Puto stalling the fight.
Puto is trying to break the clinch but Ihantala has him pressed against the cage.
Ihantala throws a punch but it's blocked by Puto.
Ihantala working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
The two fighters are working to gain dominance in the clinch.
Ihantala can't find room to land a body shot as Puto controls the action.
Ihantala misses with a punch on the inside.
Ihantala lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Puto or not.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body.
Ihantala lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Puto can't break the clinch.
A shot in the inside from Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch.
Ihantala tries a body shot but Puto blocks it.
Ihantala scores with a nice hook to the head.#T4#
Ihantala tries a body shot but Puto blocks it.
Ihantala misses with a hook to the ribs.
Ihantala misses with some punches.
Still in the clinch, Ihantala scores with a nice short uppercut.
I was talking to Ihantala's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Ihantala tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Ihantala misses with some punches.
Puto throws an elbow that misses.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ihantala misses with a punch on the inside.
Ihantala misses with a body punch.
A short uppercut from Ihantala. #BC2#
Puto escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Puto ducks down to avoid it.
Despite the aggression on Puto's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Tali Ihantala seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Ihantala connects with a right hand. Puto shakes it off.#CUT#It looks like Cajun Puto has been cut.
Ihantala throws an overhand right that lands on Puto's shoulder, as Puto tries to avoid the shot.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Cajun Puto's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Ihantala tries a low kick but Puto avoids it.
Ihantala wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Ihantala does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.
Puto dives in for a single leg takedown but Ihantala sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Puto on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Puto getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Ihantala scores with the left hand. Puto knows he should have avoided that one.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Puto.
As Puto looks to move away, Ihantala throws a big counter combo but Puto just gets out of the way.
Puto scores with a jab. Ihantala acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Puto avoids the head kick by Ihantala. #T1#
Ihantala lands with a thumping leg kick.
Ihantala looks to score with a jab to the body but Puto is just out of range.
Ihantala is looking to land body kicks.
Puto only half commits to the counter leg kick.
Ihantala swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Ihantala misses with a hook.
Ihantala with a jab.
Ihantala takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Ihantala lands a right hook to the body.
Ihantala throws a hook to the side of Puto's head but Puto sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Puto doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
A left lands for Ihantala.#T2#
Puto tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Puto swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Ihantala is using his reach advantage well here, landing the more effective single shots from range.
Puto takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Ihantala feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Putos jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ihantala slips a straight right by Puto.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Ihantala throws an overhand right that lands on Puto's shoulder, as Puto tries to avoid the shot.
Ihantala lands with a cross.
Ihantala wants to clinch but Puto slips to the side
and Puto connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Tali Ihantala is winning the standup battle so far.#T3#
Ihantala will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away.
Puto stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Ihantala.
Ihantala pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Puto lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Puto tries a head kick but it misses.
Puto shoots in for a double leg but Ihantala sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
A looping hook to the body misses from Ihantala. Puto does a little dance to reset his feet.
Puto avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Ihantala misses with a left hand
and Puto counters with a straight right hand.#T4#
Ihantala dips to his left and cracks Puto with an uppercut!
A jab lands there for Ihantala.#CUT#That has opened up Cajun Puto's cut even more.#TD2#
Puto shoots in and gets a takedown into Ihantala's guard.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Ihantala is pulling down on Puto's head. It's preventing any offense from Puto, at least for the moment.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Puto trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Puto from controlling successfully.
Puto slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Puto postures up and lands a big shot to Ihantala's brow.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Cajun Puto's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.#R3#
Ihantala rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Puto makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Ihantala feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Putos jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Puto tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Ihantala defends well and Puto ends up having to push Ihantala into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Ihantala throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range. #TD2#
Puto shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Ihantala manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
Puto sitting in guard, not really doing much.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Ihantala is pulling down on Puto's head. It's preventing any offense from Puto, at least for the moment.#T1#
Ihantala trying to control the position.
Puto stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Ihantala swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Ihantala is trying to control the position but Puto postures up.
Puto tries to free his leg and advance position but Ihantala is retaining full guard.
Puto trying to control the position from guard on top but Ihantala is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Puto jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Puto shoots in but no luck this time. #T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Puto uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a hook but Puto blocks it.
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Puto ducks down to avoid it.
Puto throws out a counter right but Ihantala avoids it with no problem.
Ihantala just misses with a punch to the body.
Puto throws out a counter right but Ihantala avoids it with no problem.
Puto misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
Ihantala lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Ihantala misses with a two punch combination.
Puto takes a kick to the body and keeps moving.
Puto misses with a left hand #CL#
and Ihantala counters by clinching up. #T3#
Ihantala lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Ihantala lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage. #CUT#The cut above Cajun Puto's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
Puto blocks an uppercut.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body.
Puto has had enough of the clinch and is looking to separate.
Still in the clinch, Ihantala scores with a nice short uppercut.
Puto prevents a body shot from Ihantala.
Puto is looking to take this one to the mat.
Tali Ihantala has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Cajun Puto.
Ihantala works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Ihantala misses with a punch on the inside.
Puto looks to throw an elbow but misses.
Puto blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Puto is trying to break free.
Puto working hard to break the clinch.#T4#
Ihantala softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Ihantala misses with some punches.
Ihantala prevents Puto from breaking the clinch.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
A left hand lands to the body for Ihantala. #BC#
Ihantala breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Ihantala throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Puto sizes up Ihantala with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Puto blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
Puto is clearly looking to counter with head kicks.
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 crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Ihantala misses with a leg kick.
Puto takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala clearly takes that round.
The cut man is working on Cajun Puto's cut.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R4#
Puto throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Puto avoids the head kick by Ihantala.
Puto let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Puto walks into a straight right hand from Ihantala.
Ihantala thows a left - swing and a miss!
Puto ducks right into an uppercut from Ihantala.
Puto throws out a leg kick but Ihantala moves out of range and Puto only half commits.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Puto throws a head kick that misses.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Puto lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Ihantala has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Ihantala and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses. #T1#
Ihantala throws a wild body kick that Puto sees coming a mile off.
Ohhhhh! A huge head kick from Ihantala! Puto is out on his feet! Ihantala rushes in and throws more strikes. The ref is looking closely - Puto is covering up but the punishment is just too much and the ref steps in to stop the fight! Puto is staring into space, just thankful that the beatdown has ended. Brutal finish.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:13 of round 4, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
Tali Ihantala bigged himself up after the win. The crowd seemed to love it.

 

Event: WVT 5: Puto v Smith     
Date:   May 29, 2022
#R1#
A swing and a miss from Ihantala.
Kozlow appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
Ihantala misses with a double jab.
A telegraphed right hand from Kozlow misses the target.
We've been informed that Ihantala has been sparring a lot of Muay Thai in the buildup to this fight so let's see if that has an impact on the result.
Kozlow defending well as Ihantala loads up on a big left hand.
Ihantala lands with a good body shot.
Ihantala lands a nice shot that snaps Kozlow's head back.
Kozlow ducks under a wild hook from Ihantala.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A head kick from Ihantala lands but Kozlow takes it in his stride. #CUT2#It looks like Krzysztof Kozlow has been cut.
Kozlow throws a jab but it's blocked by Ihantala.
A head kick from Ihantala lands but Kozlow takes it in his stride.
Kozlow throws a hook but Ihantala blocks it.#T1#
Kozlow pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Kozlow slips a jab and a cross from Ihantala.
Tali Ihantala seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A telegraphed right hand from Kozlow misses the target.
Ihantala pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Kozlow throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala counters with a nice body shot.
Ihantala goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Ihantala misses with a low kick.
Kozlow jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Ihantala slips under a jab from Kozlow.
A little jabbing left from Ihantala on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.#T2#
Left hook, right uppercut from Kozlow.
Ihantala dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Kozlow takes a head kick and keeps coming.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Ihantala.
Ihantala with a nice cross.#CUT2#Krzysztof Kozlow's cut is getting worse.
Ihantala tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Kozlow is looking to counter punch.
Kozlow swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Ihantala tries a quick counter leg kick but Kozlow is wise to it.
Kozlow tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Ihantala swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Ihantala works Kozlow's body with a nice hook.#T3#
Ihantala scores with a jab to the jaw.
Kozlow throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Ihantala counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Ihantala scores with a punch to the head.
Ihantala throws a big shot that misses.
Ihantala looks to throw the jab but Kozlow is out of range.
Ihantala lands with a nice body punch.
Ihantala throws a wild body kick that Kozlow sees coming a mile off.#CL2#
Ihantala clinches with his opponent.
I was talking to Kozlow's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala. #T4#
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Kozlow controls his hands.
Kozlow blocks a body shot from Ihantala.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Kozlow working aggressively here.
Kozlow takes a shot to the head.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Kozlow has a couple of punches blocked by Ihantala.
Kozlow can't find room to land a body shot as Ihantala controls the action.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Kozlow works on Ihantala's body with a couple of short punches.
Ihantala softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Ihantala digs a right hand into Kozlow's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Kozlow's gas tank.
Kozlow is really struggling to find his range with his punches. Ihantala's reach advantage is clearly causing him problems.
Ihantala lands a nice uppercut.#CUT2#Krzysztof Kozlow's cut is bleeding quite badly. He's got to try and protect it.
Ihantala scores with a nice hook to the head.
Ihantala tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Kozlow lands a body shot in the clinch.
Kozlow lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Ihantala tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Kozlow blocks an uppercut.
A body shot lands from Ihantala.
Ihantala blocks an uppercut.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Krzysztof Kozlow's cut.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R2#
Ihantala goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
A jab from Ihantala misses.
Kozlow is looking to counter punch.
Kozlow steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Ihantala.
Kozlow swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Ihantala fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Kozlow has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Ihantala throws an overhand right that lands on Kozlow's shoulder, as Kozlow tries to avoid the shot.
Kozlow misses with a hook.
Ihantala throws a counter combo.
Ihantala is using his reach advantage to land shots from outside his opponent's range.
Kozlow throws an off balance right hand
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kozlow missing with a left hand there. Ihantala was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Ihantala swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
A jab from Kozlow misses.
Ihantala cracks Kozlow with a right hand to the side of the head.#T1#
Ihantala scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Kozlow doesn't seem bothered though.
Kozlow takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Kozlow has a nice red mark on his side after a thudding body kick by Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
It looked like Kozlow was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Ihantala.
A low kick from Ihantala misses
and Kozlow counters with a nice uppercut.
Ihantala throws a leg kick but Kozlow sees it coming and checks it nicely. #CL2#
Ihantala gets a clinch.
Kozlow swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Kozlow tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body. #T2#
Kozlow lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Ihantala or not.
Kozlow misses with a punch to the body.
Ihantala working aggressively here.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Kozlow.
Kozlow fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Kozlow misses with some punches.
Ihantala scores with an uppercut up the middle.#CUT2#Jeez, Krzysztof Kozlow's cut is really nasty now. The referee must be thinking about getting that checked.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Kozlow working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Kozlow lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Kozlow.
Ihantala has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
A short right from Ihantala on the inside.
Ihantala works on Kozlow's body with a couple of short punches.
Ihantala misses with the head strike.
Kozlow working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Kozlow goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Ihantala is leaning against Kozlow and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Good body shot from Ihantala.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Ihantala.
Ihantala lands a hook that snaps the head of Kozlow backwards. #T3#
A head punch blocked on the inside by Ihantala.
A short uppercut from Ihantala.
Kozlow fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
A hook to the body from Ihantala.
Ihantala softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Ihantala softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Ihantala is working Kozlow over against the cage.
Ihantala lands with a right to the head.

The referee calls the doctor in to look at Krzysztof Kozlow's cut. Oh no, the doctor has called an end to the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:34 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala is the new super heavyweight champion!
Tali Ihantala spent the whole post fight interview bigging himself up. It didn't go down that well with the fans after a while as they thought it was a bit arrogant.

 

Event: RISE 63:     
Date:   May 08, 2022
#R1#
The fighters circling - Rees Mogg throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Ihantala tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Rees Mogg was well out of range. Poor timing from Ihantala.
Ihantala tries a head kick but it misses.
Rees Mogg lands a nice shot to the body.
Ihantala uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Rees Mogg has time to react.
Rees Mogg jabbing away but nothing is landing.
A shot to the body from Ihantala misses
and Rees Mogg counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Ihantala throws an overhand right that lands on Rees Mogg's shoulder, as Rees Mogg tries to avoid the shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala lands a big head kick that sends Rees Mogg to the canvas! Ihantala follows up with strikes from the mount that forces the ref to step in and stop the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:48 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
Tali Ihantala 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.
The defeated Jacob Rees Mogg had this to say: 'Humpty Dumpty would approve.'.

 

Event: RISE 57: Ihantala v Halo     
Date:   Apr 24, 2022
#R1#
Ihantala tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Halo was well out of range. Poor timing from Ihantala.
Halo tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Halo staying out of range there.
Halo is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
A nice leg kick lands there from Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a right hand that misses #TD2#
and Halo counters with a takedown into side control.
Halo trying to control the position but Ihantala is working away.
Ihantala struggling a bit here.#SUB2#
Halo thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Halo is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Ihantala has escaped the position, nice work there.
Halo trying to control the position but Ihantala is working away. #T1##SUB2#
Halo is trying to get an arm triangle but Ihantala is defending well.
Ihantala struggling a bit here.
Ihantala tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Halo wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Halo is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Ihantala knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Halo wants to lay and pray for a moment but Ihantala keeps working.
Halo 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. #T2#
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.#SUB2#
Halo swings around for an armbar but Ihantala sees it coming a mile off and turns beautifully into Halo's guard.
Ihantala tries to free his leg and advance position but Halo is retaining full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Halo controls Ihantala momentarily but Ihantala frees himself.
Ihantala 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.
Halo has his hands on Ihantala's head, controlling the position.
Halo looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Ihantala 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.
Ihantala wants to control from the top but Halo keeps moving. #T3#
Ihantala controlling from the top position.
Halo keeping moving, preventing Ihantala from controlling successfully.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Ihantala sitting in guard here, content to control.
Halo working a defensive guard here. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
A chopping leg kick lands by Ihantala.
Ihantala bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Halo's head backwards.#T4#
Ihantala throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Ihantala swings widly with a right hand #TD2#
and Halo counters with a shoot takedown. Ihantala fights it but they end up in guard.
Halo stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Ihantala swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Ihantala pulls Halo in close to prevent any damage.
Halo trying to control but Ihantala is working from the bottom.
Ihantala is trying to hold Halo in close to prevent damage but Halo has managed to pass into half guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Halo is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Ihantala is just riding it out for now. Halo eventually gives up the hold. #SUB2#
Halo is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Prana Halo dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Ihantala looks to land a right hand but Halo moved out of range.#TD2#
Halo decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.#SUB2#
Halo is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Ihantala doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Halo.
Ihantala is staying active underneath Halo, who seems content to just control the action from this position. #SUB2#
Halo is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Halo is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Ihantala is controlling Halo's trapped leg to prevent Halo from advancing to side control.#T1##SUB2#
Halo wants to work for an arm triangle but Ihantala is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt. #SUB2#
Ihantala is defending against the submission attempts here by Halo. #SUB2#
Ihantala is defending against the submission attempts here by Halo. #SUB2#
Halo is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #SUB2#
Halo is working for a kimura but Ihantala is defending it quite comfortably. #T2#
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.#SUB2#
Halo is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Ihantala sees it coming and defends easily.#SUB2#
Halo is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Ihantala defends it well.
Ihantala is looking for a sweep. Halo is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Halo trying to control the action but Ihantala is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Halo is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Ihantala defends it well. #SUB2#
Halo is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Ihantala defends it well.
Prana Halo has got the better of the ground game so far.#T3#
Ihantala wants to control but Halo is keeping busy and won't allow it. #SUB2#
Halo seems to be working for a kimura but Ihantala defends the submission attempt.
Ihantala wants to control but Halo is keeping busy. #SUB2#
Halo is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #SUB2#
Halo is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Ihantala is just riding it out for now. Halo eventually gives up the hold.
Ihantala holds on for dear life, maintaining half guard for now. #T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Halo is stalling here. Ihantala is in no mood to hang around though. He's locked up a kimura from the bottom! Halo seems to be keeping calm but he's forced to roll out of the hold and Ihantala has ended up in side control on the top. Nice work.
Halo is looking to reverse the position.
Halo is trying to control Ihantala's posture but Ihantala avoids it.
Halo sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Ihantala is controlling the pace.
Halo won't allow Ihantala to pass to mount.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Halo is controlling Ihantala's position as best he can from this difficult position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Prana Halo 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 each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R3#
Ihantala throws a series of punches but Halo moves out of range.
Halo shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
A punch combination from Ihantala misses.
Halo drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Ihantala defends it well.
Halo looks for a takedown but Ihantala sprawls well.
Halo moves out of range as Ihantala throws a body kick.
Halo is trying hard to land a takedown here. Ihantala sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Ihantala jinks towards his opponent looking like he wants to counter with a mid kick but doesn't commit.
Tali Ihantala has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Prana Halo.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Halo avoids the body shot from Ihantala.
Halo changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Halo shoots in for a double leg but Ihantala sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Halo keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Halo feints the counter takedown.#T1#
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses #TD2#
and Halo counters with a takedown into side control. #SUB2#
Halo is trying to get an arm triangle but Ihantala is defending well.
Ihantala tries to improve position but can't. #SUB2#
Halo tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Halo has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Ihantala gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Halo trying to control the action but Ihantala is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Halo is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Ihantala sees it coming and defends easily.#T2##SUB2#
Halo is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Ihantala has managed to free his arm - good work.
Ihantala trying to control from the bottom.
Ihantala is not content to let Halo control the position.#SUB2#
Halo is working for a submission of some sort.
Ihantala is looking to control Halo's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Ihantala avoid being mounted?#T3##SUB2#
Halo is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Ihantala doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Halo. #SUB2#
Halo seems to be working for a kimura but Ihantala defends the submission attempt.#SUB2#
Halo is trying to work for a kimura but Ihantala is defending well.
Ihantala makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Ihantala.
Ihantala is trying to control the position but Halo postures up. #T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Ihantala keeping full guard, as Halo tries to pass.
Halo trying to control the position from guard on top but Ihantala is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Halo trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Tali Ihantala is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#CL#
Ihantala gets a clinch.
Ihantala prevents a takedown attempt there. #BC#
Ihantala pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
A nice leg kick from Ihantala, right into the meat of the thigh.
Halo takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Halo shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala clearly takes that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R4#
Ihantala throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Ihantala looks to land a combination. Halo sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.#CUT#It looks like Prana Halo has been cut.
Ihantala throws a nice inside leg kick.
Halo on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Ihantala lands a nice looking body kick.#KD#
Ihantala lands a big head kick that sends Halo tumbling to the mat! Ihantala takes a step backwards and waves Halo back to his feet - he wants the finish!
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!
Ihantala throws a head kick but Halo moves out of range.
Halo misses with a takedown attempt - Ihantala sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Ihantala is looking for a counter combo.#T1#
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Ihantala.
Halo tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Ihantala scores with a nice right hand.
Ihantala feints a jab and as Halo dips his head, Ihantala unleashes a brutal head kick that catches Halo right on the jaw! Timbeeer! Halo falls backwards in slow motion, only propped up by the cage! Ihantala smiles a psychotic smile as he stares down his unconscious opponent. That is a scary man.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:22 of round 4, we have a winner by way of KO (Head Kick). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
After the fight, Tali Ihantala was humble in paying tribute to his opponent but made it clear he wants to go on to bigger and better things. It seemed to go down well with the crowd who cheered him loudly.
In defeat, Prana Halo stepped up to the mic, saying 'Shit happens'.

 

Event: RISE 51: Ihantala v Svyatogor     
Date:   Apr 10, 2022
#R1#
Ihantala jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Svyatogor misses with a leg kick.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut.
Ihantala throws a head kick but Svyatogor moves out of range.
Ihantala gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Svyatogor throws a right hand that misses
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Ihantala moves out of range as Svyatogor throws a body kick.
Svyatogor slips a jab from Ihantala.
Ihantala looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Ihantala keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Svyatogor.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala throws a leg kick that misses. #CL#
Ihantala rushes Svyatogor and presses him up against the cage.
Ihantala misses with some punches.
Svyatogor throws an elbow but it's blocked.
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch.
Ihantala lands with a short punch from the clinch. #T1#
Svyatogor lands an elbow that stopped Ihantala in his tracks for a moment. #CUT2#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.
Svyatogor throws an elbow but it misses.
Svyatogor tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
A left hand lands to the body for Ihantala.
A nice left hand lands by Ihantala.
Svyatogor misses with a punch to the body.
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Svyatogor's elbow.
Svyatogor's coach down at ubergym was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Svyatogor's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
Svyatogor tries to work over Ihantala's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Ihantala is working Svyatogor over against the cage.
Ihantala lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Svyatogor throws an elbow that misses.
Ihantala lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Ihantala has a couple of punches blocked by Svyatogor.
Ihantala working aggressively here.
Ihantala lands a left hand. #BC#
Ihantala breaks the clinch.
Svyatogor misses with an uppercut
and Ihantala counters with a low kick, right behind Svyatogor 's knee.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Svyatogor looks to throw the jab but Ihantala is out of range. #T2#
Svyatogor takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Ihantala jabs at Svyatogor's body.
Good shot there by Svyatogor.
Svyatogor waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Ihantala.
Dimitri Svyatogor seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#CL#
Ihantala takes the fight into the clinch.
Ihantala lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Ihantala swings wildly with an uppercut but Svyatogor uses good head movement to avoid it.
Svyatogor blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Ihantala throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Svyatogors head.
Svyatogor misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
Svyatogor looks winded!
Ihantala presses Svyatogor against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Ihantala scores with a shoulder strike.
A short left from Ihantala.
Nice body punch from Ihantala - that landed with a thud.
Svyatogor blocks a punch to the side of the head. #T3#
A right hook to the body lands for Ihantala.
A right hook to the body lands for Ihantala.
Ihantala lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Svyatogor backwards.
Ihantala tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Ihantala scores with a shot to the side of Svyatogor's head.
A short right from Ihantala. #ROC#Svyatogor is rocked!
A right handed body shot lands from Ihantala.
Svyatogor is still on wobbly legs! Can Ihantala finish him?
Nice body punch from Ihantala - that landed with a thud.
Svyatogor seems to have recovered his senses.
Ihantala is leaning against Svyatogor and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Ihantala digs a right hand into Svyatogor's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Svyatogor's gas tank.
Ihantala lands a shot to the body.
Ihantala lands a hook to the side of the head.
Ihantala lands a nice uppercut.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Svyatogor misses with an elbow strike.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ihantala is working Svyatogor over against the cage.
Ihantala cracks Svyatogor with a nice body shot.
Svyatogor blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body. #T4#
A short uppercut from Ihantala.
Ihantala lands a body punch in the clinch.
A right handed body shot lands from Ihantala.
A right handed body shot lands from Ihantala.
Ihantala lands a big right hand that drops Svyatogor! The killer instinct kicks in and Ihantala finishes his opponent with a series of strikes from mount. A dominating finish by Ihantala!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:21 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala retains his super heavyweight title!
A very excited looking Tali Ihantala rambled incoherently for about 5 minutes post fight about how awesome he is. It was kinda funny for a while but then everyone got annoyed.

 

Event: RISE 44: West v Ihantala     
Date:   Mar 27, 2022
#R1#
Ihantala looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple. #KD2#
Ihantala lands a big head kick that sends West tumbling to the mat! Ihantala takes a step backwards and waves West back to his feet - he wants the finish!#CUT2#It looks like DeShawn West has been cut.
Ihantala misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
West was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
West throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Ihantala throws a sloppy head kick
and West cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Good standup being displayed there by Ihantala as he connects with a hook.
Ihantala pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
An attempted straight right counter from West misses the target.
A slow jab from West misses its intended target.
Ihantala thows a left - swing and a miss!
A little feinted left hand from West on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Tali Ihantala seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Ihantala throws a leg kick
and West counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Ihantala misses with the body kick
and West counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
West swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Ihantala counters with a nice leg kick.
Ihantala misses with a right hand
and West counters with a straight punch to the midsection.#T1#
Ihantala tries to clinch there but West circles away.
Ihantala throws a low kick but West avoids it.
West looks to throw the jab but Ihantala is out of range.
A telegraphed right hand from West misses the target.
A telegraphed right hand from West misses the target. #CL2#
Ihantala clinches with his opponent.
Ihantala takes a shot to the head.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
West tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Ihantala lands a left hand that snaps the head of West backwards.
A short right from Ihantala.
Ihantala tries to throw a body punch but West avoids it by throwing Ihantala back against the cage.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, West creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Good body shot from West.
Ihantala blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Ihantala blocks a body shot from West. #T2#
Ihantala blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Good body shot from Ihantala.
West has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Ihantala lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Ihantala lands with a light punch inside.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Ihantala tries to throw a body punch but West avoids it by throwing Ihantala back against the cage.
Ihantala keeps the fight in the clinch, despite West's efforts to push away.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
A short uppercut from Ihantala.
West can't find room to land a body shot as Ihantala controls the action.
Ihantala scores with a shoulder strike.
Ihantala lands an uppercut.#ROC2#West is rocked!
Ihantala tries to throw a body punch but West avoids it by throwing Ihantala back against the cage.
Oh West is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Ihantala blocks a body shot from West.
West seems to have got his legs back now.
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as West controls his hands.
Ihantala tries a body shot but West blocks it.
West tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Ihantala's elbow.
West blocks an uppercut.
Ihantala blocks a body shot from West.
Ihantala softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.#T3#
Ihantala blocks a punch to the side of the head.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from West. #KD2#
Ihantala drops West onto one knee with a big uppercut from the clinch! West is propped up by the cage and works his way back to his feet!
West misses with a hook from the clinch.
Ihantala doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Ihantala digs a right hand underneath West's ribcage. West let out a lung full of air as it connected.
West throws a head punch that misses.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for West.
A head punch on the inside from West fails to land.
Ihantala can't find room to land a body shot as West controls the action.
Ihantala makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Ihantala.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
A head punch blocked on the inside by West.
West lands a right hand.
Ihantala lands a shoulder strike.
West is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Ihantala misses with some punches.
Ihantala lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Ihantala blocks an uppercut.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Ihantala. #T4#
Ihantala throws a punch but it's blocked by West.
A short right from Ihantala.
West working aggressively here.
West struggles to land a body shot inside as Ihantala controls his hands.
Ihantala dips a shoulder and cracks West with a mighty uppercut! West falls back against the cage and Ihantala unloads with a barrage of strikes! West is completely out with his eyes open, only supported by the cage! Save him ref! Eventually the ref decides to do his job and jumps in - Ihantala screams abuse at the incompetent official before going over to celebrate with his corner. Brutal stuff!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala is the new super heavyweight champion!
In his post fight interview, Tali Ihantala started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

 

Event: RISE 31: Granger v Ihantala     
Date:   Feb 20, 2022
#R1#
Granger misses with a hook to the body
enabling Ihantala to counter with a crisp jab.
Ihantala takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Ihantala throws the left hand but Granger avoids the punch easily.
Granger swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Granger misses with a body punch
and Ihantala counters with a head kick.
Granger misses with a lunging right hand #CL2#
and Ihantala moves into the clinch.
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Granger controls his hands.
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Granger controls his hands. #BC#
Granger breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Granger lands a nice looking body shot.
Ihantala keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Ihantala takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Granger throws a body punch but Ihantala moves out of range.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Granger waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Ihantala.
Granger misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
Granger is looking to wear down Ihantala with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.#T1#
Granger misses the jab.
Ihantala takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Granger lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Ihantala misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Granger.
Granger lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Ihantala circles away quickly and effectively.
Ihantala takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Ihantala looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Granger fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Granger throws a body punch but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Granger.
Ihantala misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Granger.
Ihantala walks into a stiff left hand from Granger.#T2#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Ihantala looks to land a right hand but Granger moved out of range.
Granger throws a series of strikes that have Ihantala backpedaling.
Granger just misses with a punch to the body.
Granger avoids the body shot from Ihantala.
Granger throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Granger cracks a nice hook into Ihantala's ribs.
Granger misses with a jab to the body
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Granger blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
Granger has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Ihantala finds it's way round the side to connect with Granger's head.
Ihantala scores with a spinning back kick!
Granger misses with a jab, cross combination.
Ihantala throws out a counter right but Granger avoids it with no problem.
Granger scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Ihantala scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Ihantala has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.#T3#
A looping hook to the body misses from Ihantala. Granger does a little dance to reset his feet.
Granger misses with an uppercut. Ihantala saw that one coming.
Ihantala fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Ihantala looks to land a body kick but Granger moved away.
Ihantala tests Granger's chin there with a solid looking shot.
A combination from Granger does no damage.
Frank Granger seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Granger swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Ihantala throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Granger misses with a double jab.
Granger takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Granger throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Granger sets himself, and Ihantala steps forward looking for the clinch! Granger avoids it this time.
Granger throws a body punch but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala unleashes a big counter combination but Granger bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
Granger lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.#T4#
Ihantala lands a head kick! #CUT2#It looks like Frank Granger has been cut.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Granger lands a jab to Ihantala's midsection.
Ihantala has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Ihantala works the jab nicely.
Granger throws a series of punches but Ihantala avoids them all with ease.
It seemed like Ihantala was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Ihantala connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Granger throws a combination that misses
and Ihantala counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Granger swings widly with a right hand
and Ihantala counters with a left right combination that sends Granger crashing to the mat - Ihantala wastes no time in diving on top of him and pounding Granger out for a TKO! Devastating finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:39 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala was full of energy after the big win and talked about how he thinks he can do big things in this sport. The crowd were appreciative of his determination to succeed.
Frank Granger was interviewed post fight and said 'This guys are tooooo Fat and big for me FFS get them on slimfast'.

 

Event: RISE 27: Ship v Ihantala     
Date:   Feb 06, 2022
#R1#
Ship misses with a hook. Ihantala ducked under it nicely.
Ihantala looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Ihantala misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Ship has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Deathsquad in the buildup to the fight.
Ship lands a glancing blow to the side of Ihantala's head.
Ship rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Ihantala counters with a lovely straight right hand!#CUT2#It looks like Roman Ship has been cut.
Ihantala misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Ship tries to clinch but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Ship.
Ship on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Ship takes one to the side of the head.
Ship lands with a nice body punch.
Ship has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Ship throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Ship tries to clinch up but Ihantala circles away and keeps his distance.
Ihantala avoids the head kick by Ship. #CL#
Ship closes the distance and clinches.
Ihantala lands with a short shot to the head. #T1#
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Ship tries a body shot but Ihantala blocks it.
Ship tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Ihantala just stands there and leans against the cage.
Ship is trying to pull guard but Ihantala has him pressed against the cage.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Ihantala.
Ship doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Ship's elbow.
Ihantala presses Ship against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Ihantala scores with a hook to the body.
Ship is breathing heavily.
Ihantala works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Ship fails to pull the fight into his guard.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Roman Ship. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Ihantala lands a left hand that snaps the head of Ship backwards.
Ihantala lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Ship or not.
Ihantala gets through Ship's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.#CUT2#Roman Ship's cut is getting worse.
Ihantala working some nice short punches in the clinch.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Ihantala.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Ihantala.
Ihantala softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.#ROC2#Ship is rocked!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala pushes Ship against the cage. Ihantala is working some dirty boxing. Ihantala pushes off with a quick right hook! Ship goes down! Ship tries to stand but stumbles back to his kness! Ihantala moves in to finish and the ref steps in to prevent any more damage!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala was full of energy after the big win and talked about how he thinks he can do big things in this sport. The crowd were appreciative of his determination to succeed.

 

Event: RISE 22: Femme v Philippe     
Date:   Jan 23, 2022
#R1#
Ihantala avoids the head kick by Smith.
Ihantala connects with a crisp jab. #CUT#It looks like Onterrio Smith has been cut.
Ihantala throws a right and a left that Smith avoids nicely.
A big right from Ihantala misses.
Smith thows a leg kick but Ihantala checks it
and Ihantala counters with a nice uppercut.
Smith lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Ihantala lunges at Smith with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Smith's hand.
Ihantala walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Smith misses with a looping right.
A shot to the liver by Ihantala. Beautiful body shot.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Smith swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Ihantala comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
A lazy body kick from Smith
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Ihantala scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Smith looks winded!
Ihantala avoids the body shot from Smith. #KD#
Ihantala lands a big right hand that sends Smith crashing to the mat! Ihantala stays standing though and waves Smith back to his feet!#ROC#Smith is rocked!#CUT#That has opened up Onterrio Smith's cut even more.#T1#
Ihantala finds Smith's off switch, with a big overhand right that connects perfectly to the side of the head! Smith flops back against the cage, eyes gazing into the distance. Ihantala lands an unnecessary shot before the referee has time to step in and end the fight. Brutal stuff but I'm sure Smith will be OK.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:09 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala decided to go for the less than humble approach in his post fight interview, telling everyone how he is going to conquer the world. The crowd seemed to like it when really that sort of approach could have gone either way.

 

Event: RISE 17: Halo v Ihantala     
Date:   Jan 09, 2022
#R1#
Halo keeps the fight on the outside.
Ihantala misses with a leg kick #TD#
and Halo counters with a single leg into guard. Ihantala didn't expect that.
Ihantala looking to control.
Ihantala can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Halo controls the pace.
Halo trying to control the position from guard on top but Ihantala is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Ihantala working a defensive guard here.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Halo from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Halo advances position into side control!
Ihantala tries to bench press Halo off him but Halo keeps the position.
Halo is staying tight to Ihantala's torso, preventing him from escaping. #T1#
Ihantala is trying to get back to half guard.
Halo trying to control the action but Ihantala is working from the bottom.
Halo has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.#SUB#
Halo looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Ihantala tries to bench press Halo off him but Halo keeps the position. #SUB#
Halo goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Ihantala has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Halo but great work by Ihantala.
Halo sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.#T2#
Halo tries to roll over but Ihantala keeps him under control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Ihantala controlling the action here.
Halo tries to roll over but Ihantala keeps him under control.
Halo is looking to get full guard. It looks like he might be successful but at the last minute Ihantala jumps into side control!
Halo is trying to improve his position.
Ihantala is moving around in side control but his primary objective seems to be to maintain the position.
Ihantala wants to lay and pray for a moment but Halo keeps working. #T3#
Ihantala working away.
Halo tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Halo wants to control but Ihantala postures up.
Halo is looking to slip a leg under and get half guard but Ihantala is one step ahead and moves to full mount!
Halo is looking to improve his position but Ihantala isn't that keen on the idea.
Ihantala controlling from mount.
Halo is squirming around, avoiding Ihantala's attempts to control the action.
Halo wants to hold on but Ihantala pushes him away.#T4#
Ihantala wants to control the pace but Halo is squirming around nicely.
Ihantala controlling his opponent.
Halo is wriggling around trying to escape.
Halo wants to improve position but instead he's given up his back.
Ihantala gets his hands free as Halo looks to control.
Halo breaks Ihantala's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
Halo trying to control but Ihantala is working from the bottom.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Ihantala holds on and takes a little breather.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Halo wants to control from the top but Ihantala keeps moving.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Prana Halo will probably get the nod.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Ihantala stuffs the takedown attempt from Halo. Halo gets slowly back to his feet.
Ihantala misses with a wild body shot.
Ihantala lands a high kick!
Ihantala with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Ihantala dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Halo. That did some damage!
Ihantala swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Halo drops down looking for a counter takedown but Ihantala sprawls and moves away.
Ihantala misses the shot to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Halo has a takedown stuffed.
Halo moves out of the way of the counter high kick fromIhantala.
Ihantala throws a hook but Halo avoids it easily.
Halo appears to be looking for a counter takedown.#T1#
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Halo is defended easily by Ihantala.
Ihantala is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Halo with a body shot.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Prana Halo. That's going to take a lot out of him.
A head kick by Ihantala misses #TD#
and Halo counters with a shoot takedown. Ihantala fights it but they end up in guard.
Halo slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Ihantala can't keep his opponent in guard - Halo advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount. #SUB#
Halo is looking for a kimura here.
Halo tries to pass to full mount but Ihantala defends it. #T2#
Halo slows the pace down in half guard.
Halo trying to pass the guard but Ihantala defending well. #SUB#
Halo 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. #SUB#
Halo is working for a kimura but Ihantala is defending it quite comfortably. #T3#
Halo trying to control the action but Ihantala is working from the bottom.
Ihantala is looking for a sweep. Halo is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Prana Halo overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#SUB#
Ihantala is defending against the submission attempts here by Halo.
Ihantala wants to get back to full guard.#T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Halo wants to free his trapped foot but Ihantala is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Ihantala is trying to control but can't.
Halo tries to pass the half guard into mount. Ihantala knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt. #SUB#
Halo is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Ihantala is just riding it out for now. Halo eventually gives up the hold. #SUB#
Halo is working for an americana but Ihantala has been sneaky and has managed to get back to half guard, whilst Halo was thinking about the submission.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Halo is pushing down on Ihantala's leg trying to pass to half guard. Ihantala is fighting to maintain full guard but Halo has managed to sneak the leg through.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Prana Halo will probably get the nod.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!#R3##TD#
Halo scores with a takedown into Ihantala's guard.
Halo pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Ihantala is keeping the position for now.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Halo from controlling successfully.
Ihantala controls Halo momentarily but Halo frees himself.
Halo wants to pass the guard but Ihantala is keeping the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Halo thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Halo looking to pass the guard. #T1#
Ihantala controls Halo momentarily but Halo frees himself.
Halo wants to control from the top but Ihantala keeps moving. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Halo fails with the takedown
and Ihantala counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Halo ducks under a wild hook from Ihantala.#CL2#
Ihantala closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Halo looking for a takedown. #T2#
Ihantala lands a shoulder strike.
Ihantala doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Halo has Ihantala pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Ihantala manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Prana Halo. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Ihantala swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Ihantala tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked. #BC2#
Ihantala's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Ihantala keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Ihantala replies with a solid counter kick to the body but Halo blocks it well.
Ihantala tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Halo changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Ihantala tries to avoid it but Halo manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Ihantala to the ground. Ihantala escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Ihantala scores with a nice strike.
A swing and a miss from Ihantala.
Ihantala getting the better of the striking in that exchange.#T3#
Ihantala catches Halo with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Halo fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Halo steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Ihantala.
A slapping body kick lands there for Ihantala.
Tali Ihantala seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Halo ducks under a wild hook from Ihantala.
Ihantala lands a slapping body shot.
Ihantala uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Halo has time to react.
Halo has a takedown stuffed.
Ihantala looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.#T4#
A good leg kick by Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a poor cross that misses #TD#
and Halo counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Ihantala wants to improve his position but Halo is controlling well. #SUB#
Halo is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Ihantala defends it well.
Halo looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Tali Ihantala has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#SUB#
Halo seems to be looking for submissions.
Halo is looking to advance position but Ihantala won't allow it.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tali Ihantala comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Halo has won this one but let's see what the judges have to say. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Paul Aken scores the fight 29:28
Judge Saam Ante scores the fight 29:29
Judge Aafke Stam scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by majority decision... Prana Halo!

A less than humble Prana Halo misjudged his post fight interview somewhat and came across a little too arrogant whilst trying to hype up his own abilities.

 

Event: RISE 10: Halo v Lalla     
Date:   Dec 19, 2021
#R1#
Nice straight punches there by Fortythree. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Fortythree.
Ihantala defending well as Fortythree loads up on a big left hand.
Fortythree clobbers Ihantala with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Fortythree ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Fortythree connects with the punch.
Ihantala throws a body shot but no joy.
Fortythree swings for the body but Ihantala moves out of range.
Nice body punch from Ihantala.
Ihantala pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Ihantala tries to land a front kick but Fortythree steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Nice shot by Fortythree.
Ihantala avoids the body shot from Fortythree.
Ihantala misses with a kick to the body.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Ihantala uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Fortythree. #T1#
Fortythree ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Ihantala moves away.
A little jabbing left from Ihantala on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Ihantala attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Ihantala throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Fortythree scores with a hook.
Ihantala just misses with a punch to the body.
Ihantala tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
A little feinted left hand from Fortythree on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Fortythree throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Fortythree throws a lazy right hand but Ihantala sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Ihantala slips under a jab.
Ihantala misses with a lunging right hand
and Fortythree counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Ihantala throws a wild body kick that Fortythree sees coming a mile off.
Ihantala is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Fortythree rather than just go for the knockout.
Ihantala throws a body kick that digs right into the meat.
One Fortythree seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#T2#
Ihantala throws a head kick but Fortythree moves out of range.
Fortythree was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Fortythree swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Ihantala slips a straight right by Fortythree.
Ihantala looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Fortythree moves out of range as Ihantala strikes.
A little feinted left hand from Fortythree on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Ihantala takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Fortythree scores with a body shot.
Fortythree throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Fortythree just misses with a punch to the body.
Fortythree keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Ihantala looks to land a combination but Fortythree avoids it well.
Ihantala keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Fortythree.
Fortythree throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
And Ihantala responds with a good body kick, but Fortythree manages to step out the way in time.
Fortythree feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Ihantalas jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!#T3#
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Fortythree ducks down to avoid it.
Fortythree takes a kick to the side of the head.#CUT2#It looks like One Fortythree has been cut.
Fortythree cracks Ihantala with a right hand to the side of the head.
Ihantala misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
An attempted straight right counter from Fortythree misses the target.
Fortythree lands a lovely overhand right.
Fortythree is really peppering his opponent's head with punches.
Ihantala takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
The fighters circling - Fortythree throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Fortythree misses the jab.
Ihantala thows a left - swing and a miss!
Fortythree throws a body punch but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala throws a right hand that misses
letting Fortythree counter with a right hand.
Fortythree rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Ihantala counters with a slapping leg kick.
Ihantala uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.#ROC2#Fortythree is rocked!#T4#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala shakes his hands by his side, trying to relax. Fortythree takes his eyes off the ball for a moment - Ihantala sees the opportunity and cracks him with a massive hook! Fortythree bends double and collapses on top of himself - he's out! The crowd are going absolutely nuts! Wow, what a knockout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:10 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala tried to hype himself up post fight but didn't word it too well and it ended up with him sounding like a bit of a tool.

 

Event: RISE 6: Hunter v Assed     
Date:   Dec 05, 2021
#R1#
Lemieux throws a head kick that misses.
We've been informed that Ihantala has been sparring a lot of Muay Thai in the buildup to this fight so let's see if that has an impact on the result.
Ihantala misses with a looping left.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Ihantala, as that shot connected.
Lemieux looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Ihantala scores with the left hand. Lemieux knows he should have avoided that one. #KD2#
Ihantala sends Lemieux crashing to the mat with a devastating uppercut! Ihantala is motioning to the referee to let Lemieux up. He wants to try and finish this one on the feet!#ROC2#Lemieux is rocked!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
An inside leg kick lands from Ihantala.
Oh Lemieux is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Ihantala circles away from the clinch attempt
and Ihantala counters with a good low kick that Lemieux was not able to check.
Ihantala is stalking Lemieux. Lemieux circles to his left. Keeps circling left. Bam! Straight right from Ihantala, and it's lights out! Lemieux really payed the price for that rookie mistake.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:35 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala decided to go for the less than humble approach in his post fight interview, telling everyone how he is going to conquer the world. The crowd seemed to like it when really that sort of approach could have gone either way.

 

Event: RISE 3: Lemieux v Kraag     
Date:   Nov 14, 2021
#R1#
Ihantala is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Ihantala lands with a right hand.
Half Assed blocks the body kick.
Ihantala takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Half Assed throws a body punch but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala throws a hook but Half Assed avoids it easily.
Half Assed swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Half Assed takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Half Assed takes one on the button.
Ihantala is using his reach advantage to land shots from outside his opponent's range.
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Half Assed ducks down to avoid it.
Ihantala pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Ihantala has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.
Ihantala moves out of range as Half Assed strikes.
Anti Half Assed seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Ihantala walks into a straight right hand from Half Assed.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Half Assed thuds his right hand into Ihantala's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
A jab from Half Assed does it's job there.
Half Assed thows a left - swing and a miss!
Half Assed misses with a head kick. #T1#
Half Assed misses with a looping left.
Ihantala throws the left hand but Half Assed avoids the punch easily.
Half Assed keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Ihantala.
Ihantala waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Half Assed.
Half Assed fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Ihantala.
Half Assed misses with a wild body shot.
Half Assed avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Half Assed swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Ihantala throws a head kick but Half Assed moves out of range.
Half Assed bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Half Assed lands a nice shot to the body.
Ihantala walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Nice shot lands for Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a body punch but Half Assed moves out of range.
Half Assed throws a low kick, looking for Ihantala's leg but Ihantala calmly moves out of range. #T2#
Ihantala takes one on the chin but seems OK.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#TD#
Ihantala tries to sprawl but Half Assed drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Ihantala is refusing to be controlled, as Half Assed sits in half guard.
Half Assed looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Half Assed is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Half Assed tries to pass the half guard into mount. Ihantala knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Ihantala is holding on to half guard well.
Ihantala is trying to maintain the position but Half Assed is very close to passing his half guard.#T3#
Ihantala is staying active underneath Half Assed, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Half Assed is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Ihantala is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.
Ihantala preventing any damage for now, controlling his opponent's head. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Half Assed scores with a hook to the body. Ihantala takes a step back and tries to catch his breath. #TD#
Half Assed shoots in and gets a takedown into Ihantala's guard.
Ihantala has control of Half Assed's left arm, preventing Half Assed from doing any damage.
Let's hope that Ihantala has the urge to step up the pace any second now because for the last 15 or 20 seconds he's just been holding on tight.#T4#
Ihantala is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Ihantala trying to control the position here.
Half Assed wants to control from the top but Ihantala keeps moving.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Anti Half Assed dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
The crowd cheers as Ihantala lands an impressive looking overhand right. Half Assed doesn't seem phased though.
Ihantala throws a right hand that misses
letting Half Assed counter with a right hand.
Ihantala keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Half Assed.
Ihantala is clearly looking to counter with head kicks.
Half Assed swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Half Assed lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.
Ihantala tries to clinch but Half Assed is having none of it.
A jab lands there for Half Assed.
Ihantala leaves Half Assed with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Half Assed is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Ihantala can do to turn this around?
Half Assed misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Half Assed throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Ihantala sizes up Half Assed with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#CL#
Half Assed rushes Ihantala and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.#T1#
Half Assed pushes Ihantala back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
Ihantala misses with a hook to the ribs.
Ihantala misses with a short punch on the inside.
Half Assed trying to stall but Ihantala improves his position.
Half Assed working aggressively here.
Half Assed is trying to pull guard but being pressed up against the cage enables Ihantala to keep the fight standing.
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Half Assed's elbow.
Half Assed working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
A head punch on the inside from Ihantala fails to land.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a head punch that misses.
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Half Assed trying to stall but Ihantala improves his position.
A short left from Half Assed.
Ihantala misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Ihantala lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Ihantala's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Half Assed lands an uppercut.
Ihantala lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
A right hand to the body from Half Assed.
Half Assed misses with a hook to the ribs. #T2#
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Half Assed tries to pull guard but Ihantala holds him up against the cage and eventually Half Assed drops back down to his feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Anti Half Assed. That's going to take a lot out of him.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Half Assed throws a head punch that misses.
Ihantala misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Half Assed blocks a body shot from Ihantala.
Ihantala tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Half Assed's elbow.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Half Assed can't find room to land a body shot as Ihantala controls the action.
Ihantala swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Ihantala tries to work over Half Assed's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Half Assed prevents a body shot from Ihantala.
Ihantala has been looking to improve his clinch game in recent weeks. Half Assed seems to have the measure of him in the clinch so far, so let's see if Ihantala can turn it around.
Ihantala's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Half Assed prevents a body shot from Ihantala.
Ihantala makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Ihantala blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Ihantala is working Half Assed over against the cage.
Ihantala misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Ihantala tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Half Assed misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Half Assed tries to pull guard but Ihantala won't allow it. #T3#
Ihantala misses with a body punch.
Half Assed throws a punch but it's blocked by Ihantala.
Half Assed is trying to pull guard but being pressed up against the cage enables Ihantala to keep the fight standing.
Half Assed tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Ihantala blocks an uppercut.
Half Assed tries to work over Ihantala's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Half Assed is working Ihantala over against the cage.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
A short right from Ihantala.
Half Assed lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body.
Ihantala tries a body shot but Half Assed blocks it.
Half Assed lands a left hand that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards.
Half Assed misses with a short punch on the inside.
Ihantala lands a left hand.
Half Assed scores with a nice hook to the head.
Half Assed blocking some punches.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
Ihantala works on Half Assed's body with a couple of short punches.
Half Assed prevents a body shot from Ihantala. #T4#
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Half Assed struggles to land a body shot inside as Ihantala controls his hands.
Half Assed works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Ihantala swings wildly with an uppercut but Half Assed uses good head movement to avoid it.
Ihantala misses with some punches.
A short left from Ihantala.
Half Assed works on Ihantala's body with a couple of short punches.
Half Assed tries to pull guard but Ihantala forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Ihantala tries to work over Half Assed's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Half Assed stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Ihantala tries to work over Half Assed's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
A nice left hand lands by Half Assed.
Half Assed jumps guard but Ihantala turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.
Half Assed scores with a shoulder strike.
Ihantala blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Ihantala misses with a body punch.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Half Assed.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Half Assed.
Half Assed blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Anti Half Assed will probably get the nod.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
Ihantala lands with a straight right. Half Assed didn't see that one coming.
Ihantala pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Half Assed throws a hook but Ihantala avoids it easily.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Ihantala looks for the body kick but Half Assed saw that one coming.
Ihantala misses with a low kick.
Half Assed lands a body shot.
A head kick misses from Ihantala.
Nice cross by Half Assed.
Ihantala digs a good body shot into Half Assed's ribs.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Half Assed lands a really nice looking cross but Ihantala seems unphased.
Half Assed throws a right hand that misses
and Ihantala counters with a head kick. That will keep Half Assed thinking before he tries any more sloppy attacks!
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!
Half Assed drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Half Assed throws a shot from downtown. Ihantala moves away and avoids it.#T1#
Ihantala lands with an overhand left.
Half Assed tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Ihantala manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Half Assed shoots for a takedown but Ihantala saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Ihantala throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
A nice leg kick lands there from Half Assed.
A nice inside leg kick there by Half Assed. That's going to slow Ihantala down.
Half Assed shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Ihantala sprawls well. Ihantala wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Half Assed gets slowly back to his feet.
Half Assed throws a lazy body kick
and Ihantala counters with a left to the body.
Ihantala lands the left hand.
Half Assed connects with a good right hand that stumbles Ihantala. Ihantala circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Ihantala blocks a low kick nicely.
Half Assed is looking to clinch.
Anti Half Assed is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T2#
Ihantala tries to move into range but Half Assed moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Half Assed ducks under a wild hook from Ihantala.
Half Assed is trying to close the distance and clinch up, after that failed offence from Ihantala.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ihantala keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
A low kick lands for Half Assed.
A jab lands there for Ihantala.
Half Assed misses with a looping left.
As Half Assed backs off Ihantala throws a huge counter combo but Half Assed manages to avoid it all.
Half Assed tries to move into range but Ihantala moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Ihantala moves away from the strike by Half Assed.
Ihantala feints and then cracks Half Assed's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Half Assed down.
Half Assed looks to score with a jab to the body but Ihantala is just out of range.
Ihantala looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Half Assed throwing a counter right hand but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Half Assed uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Ihantala.
Half Assed tries to counter by clinching up but Ihantala breaks away and moves out of range.
Half Assed misses with a looping left.#T3#
Half Assed misses with a low kick.
Ihantala tries to counter with a clinch but Half Assed shakes him off and moves away.
Ihantala moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Half Assed looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Ihantala appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Anti Half Assed. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Half Assed throws a good cross that connects.
A jab from Half Assed misses.
Ihantala keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Tali Ihantala is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Half Assed throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Half Assed fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Ihantala avoids it really well and circles away.
Ihantala throws a sloppy head kick and Half Assed moves out of range easily. #T4#
Ihantala throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.
Half Assed lands a really nice looking cross but Ihantala seems unphased.
Ihantala will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away. #KD2#
Oooooh!!! Ihantala has knocked Half Assed down with a huge combo! Ihantala steps away and waves a wobbly Half Assed back to his feet! This one might not go much longer!#ROC2#Half Assed is rocked!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Half Assed looks to land a left hand but Ihantala moved out of range nicely.
Ihantala looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Oh Half Assed is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Half Assed wants to slow Ihantala down by chopping away at his legs.
Ihantala tries a head kick but it misses.
Half Assed swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Half Assed bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Ihantala's head.
Ihantala throws a shot from downtown. Half Assed moves away and avoids it.
Ihantala takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Ihantala swings widly with a right hand
and Half Assed connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Half Assed waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Ihantala.
Tali Ihantala seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Half Assed lands with an uppercut that bounces Ihantala off the cage and back into range.
A head kick misses from Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a few strikes there.
Half Assed seems to have got his legs back now.
Half Assed lands a jab.
Tali Ihantala has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Half Assed works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Half Assed wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Tali Ihantala.
Well Half Assed has outscored his opponent in every aspect of the fight today. Only a scarily incompetent judge or two will keep him from a well deserved win... Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Jorge Garcia scores the fight 29:28
Judge Franklyn Lucas scores the fight 29:28
Judge Russell Pearce scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Anti Half Assed!

Anti Half Assed took his opportunity to call for a title shot in his post fight interview.

 

Event: RISE 1: Resurrection     
Date:   Oct 31, 2021
#R1#
Ihantala wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Ihantala lands a kick to the ribs of his opponent. Nice work there - in and out in a flash.
Kraag thuds a left hand into Ihantala's body.
Ihantala lands a head kick. Kraag smiles back at him and beckons him forward.
Kraag looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Ihantala throws a jab when Kraag was well out of range.
Kraag throws a right hand that misses
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Kraag misses with a wild body shot.
Kraag tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ihantala was well out of range. Poor timing from Kraag.
Ihantala looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Kraag throws a hook but Ihantala blocks it.
Kraag cracks a nice hook into Ihantala's ribs.
Ihantala throws a head kick but Kraag moves out of range.
Ihantala on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Kraag misses with a telegraphed body shot
and Ihantala counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Kraag throws a body punch but Ihantala moves out of range.
Ihantala's coach down at ubergym was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Ihantala's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.#T1#
A punch lands to the side of Ihantala 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Ihantala chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Ihantala comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
A jab from Kraag finds it's way through Ihantala's defenses.
Kraag misses with a body shot.
Kraag misses with a shot to the body
and Ihantala counters with an outside leg kick.
Kraag misses the shot to the body.
Ihantala throws a low kick but Kraag avoids it.
Kraag lands a nice hook to Ihantala's body. Ihantala takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Kraag throws a sloppy body shot
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Kraag is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Ihantala.
Kraag is looking to wear down Ihantala with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Ihantala moves away from the strike by Kraag. #T2#
Kraag uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Ihantala.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Kraag misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
A looping hook to the body misses from Kraag. Ihantala does a little dance to reset his feet.
Kraag swings for the body but Ihantala moves out of range.
Kraag tries to move into range but Ihantala moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Kraag misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
Kraag misses with a telegraphed body shot
and Ihantala counters with a crisp right that sends Kraag to the canvas! Ihantala follows up with punches from the mount and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:36 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala was full of energy after the big win and talked about how he thinks he can do big things in this sport. The crowd were appreciative of his determination to succeed.

 

Event: SFL 90 | Half Baked     
Date:   Aug 02, 2021
#R1#
Ihantala lands a nice shot that snaps Barrels's head back.
Ihantala on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Some wild striking there from Ihantala.
Barrels was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Barrels jabbing away but nothing is landing.
A punch lands to the side of Ihantala 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Barrels misses with a hook
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand. #CUT2#It looks like Tu Barrels has been cut.
Barrels lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Barrels throws a shot to the body.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Barrels.
A little jabbing left from Ihantala on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Ihantala's corner calls for a 1-2. Ihantala obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
A telegraphed right hand from Barrels misses the target.
Barrels swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Ihantala throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Ihantala takes a swing at Barrels's ribcage but misses.
A solid leg kick lands there for Ihantala.
Barrels misses the shot to the body.
A nice combination there by Ihantala.
Tu Barrels seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#T1#
Donk. Barrels catches Ihantala right on the button with a cross.
Barrels misses with an uppercut.
Ihantala steps in looking to counter with the mid kick but it doesn't connect.
Barrels fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Ihantala avoids it really well and circles away.
Barrels throws a right hand that misses #KD2#
and Ihantala counters with a nice right hand that sends Barrels toppling to the canvas! Barrels scrambles and gets back to his feet - can Ihantala finish him?!#ROC2#Barrels is rocked!
Ihantala misses with a wild body shot.
Oh Barrels is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Barrels lands an overhand right.
Barrels seems to have got his legs back now.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Barrels works the jab nicely.
Barrels throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Ihantala sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Barrels moves out of range as Ihantala strikes.
Barrels connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Ihantala's hands.#CL2#
Ihantala has closed the distance and engaged Barrels in a clinch.
Barrels tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Barrels lands a left hand that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards. #T2#
Ihantala blocks the elbow strike.
Barrels blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Nice body punch from Ihantala.
A short right from Barrels on the inside.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
Barrels throws an elbow but it's blocked.
Ihantala on the defensive, avoiding the knees to the body.
A right handed body shot lands from Ihantala.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Ihantala.
A nice left hand lands by Ihantala.
Ihantala lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Ihantala tries a body shot but Barrels blocks it.
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch.
Ihantala lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Ihantala throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Barrelss head.
Ihantala swings wildly with an uppercut but Barrels uses good head movement to avoid it.
A right hook to the body lands for Ihantala.
Ihantala digs a right hand into Barrels's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Barrels's gas tank.
Barrels is breathing heavily.
Barrels's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Ihantala working some nice short punches in the clinch.
A short uppercut from Ihantala. #T3#
Ihantala working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Ihantala throws a big uppercut that drops Barrels! More strikes from Ihantala and the referee jumps in to stop the fight! Barrels lies dazed against the cage as Ihantala celebrates with his cornermen!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:13 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
A less than humble Tali Ihantala misjudged his post fight interview somewhat and came across a little too arrogant whilst trying to hype up his own abilities.

 

Event: SFL 73 | Atunes vs Shipilov     
Date:   May 23, 2021
#R1#
Ihantala staying out of range there.
Ihantala takes a swing at Watts's ribcage but misses.
Watts throws out a loose jab but Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid it.
Ihantala has been working on his striking defense in training and it's paying off as Watts is landing a low percentage of strikes.
Ihantala blocks a jab.
Ihantala takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Nice defenses there by Watts.
Ihantala moves out of range of the strikes.
A chopping leg kick lands by Watts.
Watts darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Watts tries a head kick but it misses.
Watts scores with a jab.
A nice inside leg kick there by Watts. That's going to slow Ihantala down.
A head kick misses from Watts.
Watts connects with an inside leg kick.
Ihantala slips under a jab from Watts.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Watts throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
Watts tests Ihantala's chin there with a solid looking shot.#T1#
Ihantala pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Watts thows a left - swing and a miss!
Watts with a poor takedown
and Ihantala counters with a nice body shot.
Ihantala takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Watts swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
and Ihantala counters with a nice uppercut.
Watts misses with a hook.
A big left from Ihantala misses.
Watts misses with a leg kick
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand.
Ihantala defending well as Watts loads up on a big left hand.
Ihantala counters with a body kick.
Ihantala misses with a straight left.
Watts jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Ihantala tries a head kick but it misses.
Ihantala moves away from the strike by Watts.
Watts pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Watts definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
A telegraphed right hand from Watts misses the target. #T2#
Watts misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Ihantala misses with a low kick as Watts jumps back.
A jab from Ihantala finds it's way through Watts's defenses.
Watts throws a predictable looking body shot
enabling Ihantala to counter with a crisp jab.
Watts throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Ihantala sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Watts dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Ihantala. That did some damage!
Ihantala blocks a head kick by Watts.
A good leg kick by Watts.
Ihantala has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.#CL2#
Ihantala has taken the fight to the clinch.
Watts tries to circle away but Ihantala has him pinned against the cage.
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Watts controls his hands.
Watts working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Watts is really struggling to find his range with his punches. Ihantala's reach advantage is clearly causing him problems.
Still in the clinch, Ihantala scores with a nice short uppercut.#ROC2#Watts is rocked!
Ihantala lands an uppercut in the clinch that drops Watts to his knees! Ihantala keeps firing more shots against his stricken opponent and the referee jumps in to save him!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tali Ihantala!
After the fight, Tali Ihantala was humble in paying tribute to his opponent but made it clear he wants to go on to bigger and better things. It seemed to go down well with the crowd who cheered him loudly.

 

Event: SFL 64 | Marley Fest     
Date:   Apr 20, 2021
#R1#
Ihantala cracks Puno with a right hand to the side of the head.#CUT#It looks like Jeronimo Puno has been cut.
Ihantala takes one on the button.
Puno bobs and weaves and then throws a good body kick.
Ihantala thows a leg kick but Puno checks it
and Puno counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Puno dodges the punch combination from Ihantala.
Puno ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Puno finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Puno tries to land a front kick but Ihantala steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
It looked like Ihantala was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Puno.
Ihantala throws a looping overhand right but Puno ducks down to avoid it.
Ihantala lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Puno circles away quickly and effectively.
Puno rushes in with a sloppy looking punch #CL#
and Ihantala counters by clinching up. #T1#
Puno makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Ihantala.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Puno.
Ihantala tries to circle away but Puno has him pinned against the cage.
Puno lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Ihantala throws a head punch that misses. #TD2#
Puno successfully pulls guard. #SUB2#
Ihantala avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #SUB2#
Ihantala got a little sloppy there for a moment and Puno has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Ihantala has managed to get both his arms back between Puno's legs - danger averted.
Puno has control of Ihantala's left arm, preventing Ihantala from doing any damage. #T2#
Puno controls Ihantala momentarily but Ihantala frees himself. #SUB2#
Puno had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Ihantala defends it easily.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Ihantala passes Puno's left leg - he's now in half guard.
Ihantala working over Puno with some ground and pound. Puno looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#T3#
Puno is looking for a sweep. Ihantala is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Ihantala wants to control but Puno is keeping him busy.
Puno wants to get back to full guard but Ihantala has mounted him!
Ihantala tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
Puno tries to improve his position but instead Ihantala has taken his back!
Puno trying to control but not successfully. #SUB#
Ihantala tightening his grip on Puno, looking for the choke. #T4#
Puno wants to escape the position.
Ihantala is controlling the position but Puno somehow manages to roll and ends up with half guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Ihantala looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Jeronimo Puno will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Jeronimo Puno's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.#R2#
Ihantala misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Puno.
A little jabbing left from Puno on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Ihantala wants to clinch but Puno slips to the side
and Ihantala takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #CUT2#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Ihantala rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Puno makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Ihantala fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Puno is out of range.
Puno walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.#KD2#
Puno moves into range and throws a big uppercut. OH! Ihantala goes down! Can Puno finish him!?#ROC2#Ihantala is rocked!
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!
Puno trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Ihantala keeping moving, preventing Puno from controlling successfully. #T1#
Puno engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Ihantala trying to control the position.
Puno slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Puno is fighting to break Ihantala's control of his arms but Ihantala is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.#T2#
There's not a lot going on here and the crowd are letting the fighters know they're not willing to tolerate a lack of action.
Puno wants to pass the guard but Ihantala is keeping the position.#REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.#CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Puno digs a right hand underneath Ihantala's ribcage. Ihantala let out a lung full of air as it connected.
Puno misses with a hook from the clinch.
Puno throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Ihantala takes a shot to the head.
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch.
Puno lands a shoulder strike.
Puno misses with a punch to the body.
Puno blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Puno scores with a nice hook to the head.
Puno throws a punch but it's blocked by Ihantala.
Nice body punch from Puno. #T3#
Puno lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Puno doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Puno lands with a short shot to the head.
Nice body punch from Ihantala - that landed with a thud.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
Puno misses with a hook to the ribs.
Ihantala misses with a hook to the ribs.
Puno makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Ihantala's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Puno has been looking to improve his clinch game in recent weeks. Ihantala seems to have the measure of him in the clinch so far, so let's see if Puno can turn it around.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Puno.
Puno works on Ihantala's body with a couple of short punches.
Ihantala swings wildly with an uppercut but Puno uses good head movement to avoid it.
Puno lands with a short shot to the head.
Puno working aggressively here.
Puno misses with a punch to the body.
Ihantala working aggressively here.
Puno lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards.
Puno tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Ihantala's elbow.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Puno blocking some punches. #T4#
Ihantala lands a nice shot to the body.
Ihantala lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Ihantala lands a body punch.
Jeronimo Puno seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch.
Ihantala tries to throw a body punch but Puno avoids it by throwing Ihantala back against the cage.
Puno lands a shoulder strike.
Puno working aggressively here.
Puno lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Puno lands with a light punch inside.
Ihantala lands a shoulder strike.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Puno.
Ihantala tries to work over Puno's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Puno.
Puno blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Puno tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Ihantala misses with a body punch.
Puno struggles to land a body shot inside as Ihantala controls his hands.
Nice body punch from Puno.
Puno misses with a hook to the ribs.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jeronimo Puno showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
Both fighters have cut men working on them during the interval.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Ihantala throws a shot from downtown. Puno moves away and avoids it.
Puno throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Puno lands a glancing blow to the side of Ihantala's head.
Both fighters circling a little - Ihantala finishes the exchange with a kick to the body.
Puno missing with a left hand there. Ihantala was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Puno thuds his right hand into Ihantala's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Ihantala moves out of range as Puno throws a body kick.
Ihantala looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala lands with a nice body punch.
Ihantala throws a sloppy head kick and Puno moves out of range easily.
Ihantala misses with a body kick. #T1#
Nice jab there from Ihantala.
Puno throws the left hand but Ihantala avoids the punch easily.
A swing and a miss from Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a left hand
and Puno counters with a slapping leg kick.
Puno misses with a low kick as Ihantala jumps back.
Puno cracks Ihantala with a right hand to the side of the head.
A jab from Ihantala misses.
Puno moves away from the strike by Ihantala. #T2#
Ihantala scores with a hook.
Ihantala punishes Puno's body with a nice straight punch.
Puno finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Ihantala lands a jab to the nose.
Puno gets cracked there but stands up to it.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Ihantala throws a leg kick but Puno sees it coming and moves out of range.
Puno throws a body kick that misses
letting Ihantala counter with a right hand.
Ihantala throws a quick inside leg kick.
Ihantala uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Puno.
And Ihantala counters with a quick kick to the body but Puno blocks it.#T3#
Ihantala thows a leg kick but Puno checks it
and Puno counters with a body kick that brings a smile to the face of both fighters.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Ihantala throws a lazy uppercut
and Puno counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Puno attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Ihantala slips under a jab from Puno.
Jeronimo Puno seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Puno takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Puno takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Puno staying out of range there.
A jab from Ihantala misses.
Puno is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Ihantala with a body shot.
Puno has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Ihantala tries to clinch up but Puno circles away and keeps his distance.#T4#
That kick from Puno tenderised Ihantala's leg. Ihantala is trying to keep his angry face on.
Ihantala throws a poor cross that misses
and Puno counters with a nice uppercut.
Puno tries to score with a low kick but Ihantala moves his leg out of the way.
Puno looks for the body kick but Ihantala saw that one coming.
Ihantala keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Puno.
Ihantala wants to take advantage of his opponent's missed offense by moving into the clinch.
The fighters circle, before Puno throws a beautiful high kick that crashes into Ihantala's neck, sending him stumbling to the floor! Puno lands more strikes and forces a referee stoppage! That one ended in an instant!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:42 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Kick & Punches). Jeronimo Puno!
A relieved looking Jeronimo Puno thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

 

Event: Quick Fight Championship     
Date:   Mar 16, 2021
#R1#
Ihantala misses with a straight left.
Ihantala's jab looks to have found its range, popping Billy under the eye.#CUT#It looks like Blinky Billy has been cut.
Ihantala misses with a head kick.
Billy flicks out a counter leg kick but Ihantala steps away.
Billy slips under a jab.
Billy throws an overhand right that lands on Ihantala's shoulder, as Ihantala tries to avoid the shot.
Ihantala went nuts there looking for a big combo counter but none of the flurry connected.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Good standup being displayed there by Ihantala as he connects with a hook.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ihantala throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Billy stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Ihantala misses with a body shot.
Ihantala scores with a decent looking hook.#T1#
Ihantala lands with a right hand. #CUT#That has opened up Blinky Billy's cut even more.
Billy takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Ihantala throws a hook but Billy avoids it easily.
Ihantala lands the left hand.
Billy looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple. #CUT#The cut above Blinky Billy's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
Ihantala throws a nice outside leg kick. #KD#
Ihantala sends Billy crashing to the mat with a devastating uppercut! Ihantala is motioning to the referee to let Billy up. He wants to try and finish this one on the feet!#ROC#Billy is rocked!
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
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!
Ihantala lands a brutal uppercut that launches Billy off his feet! Billy tumbles to the floor, barely conscious - the referee jumps in to save him from a beating! Wow, what an ending!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:54 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tali Ihantala!
In his post fight interview, Tali Ihantala started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

 

Event: SFL 48 | Mumu vs Babinski     
Date:   Feb 17, 2021
#R1#
Johnson throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Johnson defending well as Ihantala loads up on a big left hand.
Ihantala misses with a few strikes there.
Johnson takes one on the chin but seems OK. #CL#
Ihantala closes the distance and clinches.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Ihantala.
Ihantala working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Johnson softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Ihantala swings away with an uppercut that misses.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Johnson.
Johnson lands a shoulder strike.
Ihantala throws a head punch that misses.
Ihantala fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Johnson misses with a body punch.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Ihantala lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Ihantala misses with a hook from the clinch. #T1#
Johnson blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Ihantala tries to work over Johnson's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
A right hand to the body from Ihantala.
Johnson stalls.
Ihantala blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Johnson doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Ihantala lands with a right to the head.
Johnson has been looking to improve his clinch game in recent weeks. Ihantala seems to have the measure of him in the clinch so far, so let's see if Johnson can turn it around.
A short left from Johnson.
A head punch on the inside from Ihantala fails to land.
Johnson misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Ihantala lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Johnson backwards.
Johnson has a couple of punches blocked by Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a punch but it's blocked by Johnson.
Johnson throws a punch but it's blocked by Ihantala.
A hook to the body from Johnson.
Johnson lands a body punch in the clinch.
Johnson working aggressively here.
Ihantala tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Johnson misses with a hook from the clinch. #T2#
Johnson misses with a hook to the ribs.
A short uppercut from Ihantala.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Johnson takes a shot to the head.
Ihantala misses with a punch to the body.
Ihantala swings wildly with an uppercut but Johnson uses good head movement to avoid it. #BC#
Ihantala breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Johnson is looking to score with low kicks.
Ihantala closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Ihantala tries to land a body kick
enabling Johnson to counter with a crisp jab.
Ihantala lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Johnson ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Johnson throws a mid kick that lands with a slap.
Johnson moves away from the strike by Ihantala.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Johnson! But no joy.#T3#
Johnson walks forward, straight into a front kick from Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a low kick.
Johnson moves out of range of the body kick.
A punch lands to the side of Ihantala 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Johnson fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Ihantala.
LaTroy Johnson seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Ihantala tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Johnson takes a head kick and shrugs it off. #CL2#
Johnson gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Johnson blocks a punch to the side of the head.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Johnson. #T4#
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Ihantala creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Johnson blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Ihantala misses with some punches.
Still in the clinch, Ihantala scores with a nice short uppercut.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Johnson makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Johnson misses with a punch on the inside.
Ihantala tries a body shot but Johnson blocks it.
A hook to the body from Johnson.
Ihantala swings wildly with an uppercut but Johnson uses good head movement to avoid it.
Johnson tries a knee to the head but he's missed.
Johnson tries to work over Ihantala's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Johnson has a couple of punches blocked by Ihantala.
Ihantala tries to throw a body punch but Johnson avoids it by throwing Ihantala back against the cage.
Johnson lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Ihantala is breathing heavily.
A knee to the head by Johnson. #CUT2#It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.
Johnson unloads a knee to the mid-section. Ihantala lets out a prehistoric sounding urrrrgh.
Johnson misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Ihantala.
A short right from Johnson on the inside.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Tali Ihantala will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Tali Ihantala's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Johnson throws a nice looking combination but Ihantala bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Johnson moves out of range as Ihantala throws a body kick. #CL#
Ihantala moves into the clinch.
Johnson prevents a body shot from Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a short punch on the inside.
Ihantala misses with a punch on the inside.
Ihantala lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Johnson throws a head punch that misses.
Johnson missing with knees to the body.
Ihantala is trying to force a seperation but Johnson has the dominant position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Johnson misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Ihantala.
Ihantala tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Johnson lands a right hand that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards.
Johnson softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Ihantala.
Johnson lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Johnson lands on the inside with an uppercut. #T1#
Johnson blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Johnson is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Ihantala is keeping busy.#BC#
Ihantala breaks the clinch.
Johnson lands a slapping body shot.
Johnson throws a solid leg kick but Ihantala takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Johnson.
Johnson lands a nice shot that snaps Ihantala's head back.
Ihantala attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Johnson swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
We've been told by Ihantala's head coaches at Heavy Metal that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.#CL2#
Johnson closes the distance and clinches.
Ihantala is trying to break free.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Johnson.
Johnson looking to throw knees to the head but Ihantala is blocking nicely.
Johnson lands a body shot.
Johnson using the Thai plumb to throw knees but Ihantala has his back arched nicely, preventing the strike. #T2#
Ihantala takes a knee to the side of the body.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Johnson misses with a short punch on the inside.
Johnson with the Thai clinch. He's looking to land a big knee but he's not managed it this time.
Johnson stalling the fight.
LaTroy Johnson seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
Still in the clinch, Johnson scores with a nice short uppercut.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Johnson.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala swings away with an uppercut that misses.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Johnson.
A hook to the body from Johnson.
Johnson makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Johnson lands a left hand.
Johnson throws a knee to the head but misses.
Johnson lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Johnson swings wildly with an uppercut but Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid it.
Johnson lands with a left to the head.
Ihantala swings wildly with an uppercut but Johnson uses good head movement to avoid it.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Johnson. #T3#
Johnson throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but Ihantala blocks it with crossed arms.
Johnson blocking some punches.
Ihantala tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Johnson tries to throw a body punch but Ihantala avoids it by throwing Johnson back against the cage.
Johnson blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Ihantala has a couple of punches blocked by Johnson.
Johnson tries a body shot but Ihantala blocks it.
Johnson prevents a body shot from Ihantala.
Ihantala struggles to land a body shot inside as Johnson controls his hands.
Johnson lands with a left to the head.
Ihantala misses with some punches.
Johnson scores with a shoulder strike.
Johnson blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Ihantala swings wildly with an uppercut but Johnson uses good head movement to avoid it.
Ihantala throws a punch but it's blocked by Johnson.
Ihantala swings away with an uppercut that misses.
A short uppercut from Johnson. #T4#
Ihantala lands a left hand that snaps the head of Johnson backwards.
Johnson lands a big knee! That's hurt Ihantala! Oh, he's all over the place! Johnson lands another knee that sends Ihantala to the floor and the referee steps in to end the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:14 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). LaTroy Johnson!
After winning the bout, LaTroy Johnson thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: SFL 39 | Sitsongrit vs Grandis     
Date:   Jan 10, 2021
#R1#
Ihantala walks into a stiff left hand from Donowitz.
Donowitz avoids the body shot from Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a double jab
and Donowitz counters with a body kick that stops Ihantala in his tracks momentarily.
Donowitz throws a chopping leg kick but Ihantala manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Crunch! Ihantala slams his shin into Donowitz's torso.
Donowitz lands with a shot to the body.
Donowitz throws a hook to the side of Ihantala's head but Ihantala sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Ihantala swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
and Donowitz counters with a leg kick.
A cross from Ihantala lands.
Tali Ihantala seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Donowitz walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Ihantala avoids the body shot from Donowitz.
Donowitz swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Ihantala throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ihantala sizes up Donowitz with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Nice shot lands for Ihantala.
Donowitz throws an overhand right that lands on Ihantala's shoulder, as Ihantala tries to avoid the shot.
Ihantala misses with a head kick.
We've been told by Ihantala's head coaches at Heavy Metal that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.#T1#
Ihantala lands a glancing blow to the side of Donowitz's head.
Ihantala takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Donowitz does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.
Ihantala throws a good cross that connects.
Ihantala loads up on a big right hand but Donowitz slips the punch.
Donowitz counters with a body kick.
A combination from Ihantala does no damage.
Ihantala lands a kick to the ribs of his opponent. Nice work there - in and out in a flash.
Donowitz throws a chopping leg kick but Ihantala manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Donowitz gets off balance looking for a body kick
and Ihantala counters with a right hand to the body.
Ihantala looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
A shot to the liver by Ihantala. Beautiful body shot.
Donowitz's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Ihantala connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Donowitz scrambles back to his feet.
A slow jab from Ihantala misses its intended target.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Ihantala looks for the body kick but Donowitz saw that one coming.
Donowitz tries to land a leg kick but Ihantala saw it coming and moves away.
Ihantala fires out a quick counter leg kick but Donowitz just manages to avoid it.#T2#
Donowitz looks to land a right hand but Ihantala moved out of range.
Ihantala throwing a counter right hand but Donowitz manages to avoid it.
Ihantala throws the kick towards the body but Donowitz avoids it.
A swing and a miss from Donowitz.
Ihantala misses with a body kick.
Ihantala rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Donowitz moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Ihantala tries to score with an inside leg kick but telegraphs it and Donowitz is able to avoid easily.
Donowitz throws a body kick, spinning off balance
and Ihantala counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Donowitz throws a head kick that looked like it stung.
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Ihantala bobs and weaves and then throws a good body kick.
Donowitz throws a right hand that misses
and Ihantala makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Donowitz on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Ihantala scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Donowitz throws a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with a solid body kick.
Ihantala moves out of range as Donowitz strikes.
A little feinted left hand from Ihantala on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Ihantala throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Donowitz appeared to try and counter that last move with a leg kick.
Nice jab there from Ihantala. #T3#
Ihantala misses with a shot to the body
and Donowitz counters with a straight right hand.
Ihantala doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Donowitz throws a jab when Ihantala was well out of range.
Ihantala swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Donowitz throws a big shot that misses.
Ihantala pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Ihantala scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
Donowitz takes a head kick and keeps coming.
Ihantala throws a series of strikes that have Donowitz backpedaling. #CUT#It looks like Donny Donowitz has been cut.
Donowitz is really struggling to land any decent head shots against his taller opponent.
Donowitz takes a swing at Ihantala's ribcage but misses.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ihantala staying out of range there.
Ihantala swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Donowitz bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Ihantala cracks Donowitz with a good jab.
Ihantala gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Donowitz.
Donowitz takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section. #CL#
Ihantala forces Donowitz back against the cage and clinches.#T4#
Donowitz blocks a punch to the side of the head.
A head punch on the inside from Ihantala fails to land.
A short right from Ihantala on the inside.
Ihantala lands with a right to the head.
Ihantala throws a punch but it's blocked by Donowitz.
Donowitz is working Ihantala over against the cage.
Ihantala is breathing heavily.
Ihantala misses with a short punch on the inside. #BC2#
Donowitz pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Donowitz lands a nice shot that snaps Ihantala's head back.
Donowitz moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Ihantala throws a poor cross that misses #KD2#
and Donowitz counters with a nice right hand that sends Ihantala toppling to the canvas! Ihantala scrambles and gets back to his feet - can Donowitz finish him?!#ROC2#Ihantala is rocked!
Ihantala is aggressively charging in as Donowitz backs up avoiding any damage. Donowitz tosses out a jab and Ihantala runs right into it face first! Ihantala is out cold! Donowitz dropped down on all fours and is barking in Ihantala's face like a pit bull in celebration until the ref was finally able to pull him away!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:47 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Donny Donowitz!
During a confident post fight interview, Donny Donowitz thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

 

Event: CEC 702     
Date:   Nov 28, 2020
#R1#
Bomba moves forwards but Ihantala connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Bomba scores with a jab to the body.
Ihantala needs to keep his hands up - Bomba had a free shot at his head there.
Bomba pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Ihantala looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Ihantala throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Bomba.
Ihantala takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Bomba throws a leg kick but Ihantala sees it coming and moves out of range.
Bomba tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Bomba misses with a wild body shot.
Ihantala is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Ihantala slips a straight right by Bomba.
Ihantala throws a big counter combination but Bomba scrambles out of danger and avoids any damage.
Bomba shapes like he's going to throw a leg kick but settles back down.
Ihantala scores with a punch to the head.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
A low kick from Ihantala is predictable there
and Bomba counters with a solid body kick.
Ihantala throws a series of punches but Bomba avoids them all with ease. #T1#
Ihantala misses with a combination
letting Bomba counter with a right hand.
Ihantala takes a jab right on the kisser.
Ihantala wants to slow Bomba down by chopping away at his legs.
A nice leg kick lands there from Bomba.
Bomba looks to throw the jab but Ihantala is out of range.
Ihantala misses with a body kick.
Bomba changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Bomba dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Ihantala. That did some damage!
Bomba feints and then cracks Ihantala's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Ihantala down.
Nice defenses there by Bomba.
Bomba throws out a counter right but Ihantala avoids it with no problem.
A telegraphed right hand from Bomba misses the target.
Ihantala moves out of range of the leg kick from Bomba.#T2#
Ihantala ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Bomba moves away.
Bomba looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
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!
Ihantala lands a nice shot to the body.
Bomba 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.
Tali Ihantala seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Bomba digs a good body shot into Ihantala's ribs.
Ihantala throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Ihantala tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Thud! ouch! good body kick from Ihantala - that will leave a mark!
Ihantala pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Bomba doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Bomba keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Ihantala.
Bomba lands a nice looking kick to the body. Ihantala takes a step back to recover.
Ihantala looks to land a right hand but Bomba moved out of range.
Bomba throws a lazy uppercut
and Ihantala connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#T3#
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Bomba.
A nice inside leg kick there by Bomba. That's going to slow Ihantala down.
Ihantala blocks a jab.
Ihantala moves out of range of the body kick from Bomba.
Bomba keeps Ihantala at a distance using the push kick.
A nice inside leg kick there by Bomba. That's going to slow Ihantala down.
Bomba displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Ihantala throws out the jab.
Bomba looks to score with a jab to the body but Ihantala is just out of range.
Ihantala moves out of range of the body kick from Bomba.
Bomba looks to score with a jab to the body but Ihantala is just out of range.
Ihantala throws a right hand that misses
and Bomba counters with a nice low kick that buckles Ihantala's knee momentarily.
Bomba misses with a head kick.
Bomba moves out of range of the strikes.
Bomba lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.#T4#
Bomba throws a lazy uppercut
and Ihantala counters with a nice body kick. #CL2#
Bomba has Ihantala up against the cage in a clinch.
Bomba doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Bomba lands a right hand that snaps the head of Ihantala backwards.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
A hook to the body from Bomba.
Ihantala takes a shot to the head.
Ihantala lands a right hand that snaps the head of Bomba backwards.
Bomba working aggressively here.
Still in the clinch, Bomba scores with a nice short uppercut.
Ihantala lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Bomba backwards.
Bomba lands a body punch in the clinch.
Bomba scores with a shot to the side of Ihantala's head.
Bomba tries a body shot but Ihantala blocks it.
Bomba tries a body shot but Ihantala blocks it.
Ihantala has a couple of punches blocked by Bomba.
Bomba fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Chuck Bomba dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Bomba takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Ihantala scores with a nice looking left hook and follows it up with an uppercut!
Chuck Bomba seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Bomba blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
A little jabbing left from Bomba on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Bomba throws a poor cross that misses
and Ihantala counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Ihantala lands with an overhand left.
Ihantala throws out a loose jab but Bomba uses good head movement to avoid it.
Bomba 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.
A low kick lands for Ihantala.
Bomba throws a right hand that misses
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
A looping hook to the body misses from Ihantala. Bomba does a little dance to reset his feet.
Bomba walks into a stiff left hand from Ihantala.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Bomba moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Ihantala misses the shot to the body. #T1#
Ihantala walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Bomba takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Ihantala misses with a leg kick
and Bomba counters with a slapping leg kick.
Bomba goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Bomba lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Ihantala throws a hook but Bomba blocks it.
Bomba takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
A jab from Ihantala does it's job there.
Ihantala bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Ihantala is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Ihantala keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Bomba.
Bomba throws a low kick, looking for Ihantala's leg but Ihantala calmly moves out of range.
Ihantala has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Bomba finds it's way round the side to connect with Ihantala's head. #T2#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Bomba misses with a low kick.
Ihantala is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
A big right from Bomba misses.
Ihantala tries to land a front kick but Bomba steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Ihantala takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Bomba moves out of range as Ihantala strikes.
It seemed like Bomba was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Bomba smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Ihantala is using his reach advantage well here, landing the more effective single shots from range.
That kick from Ihantala tenderised Bomba's leg. Bomba is trying to keep his angry face on.
Bomba throws a hook but Ihantala avoids it easily.
Ihantala throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Bomba.
Ihantala misses with a leg kick.
Bomba throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Ihantala throws a sloppy head kick and Bomba moves out of range easily. #T3#
Bomba looks for the body kick but Ihantala saw that one coming.
Bomba dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Bomba misses the jab.
Ihantala throws a hook but Bomba blocks it.
Ihantala slips under a jab.
Bomba throws a lazy right hand but Ihantala sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Ihantala throws a quick counter kick to the body but Bomba avoids it.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses.
Ihantala looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Bomba misses with an uppercut
and Ihantala counters with a two punch combo.
Ihantala tries a head kick but it misses.
Bomba defending well as Ihantala loads up on a big left hand.
Bomba fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.#T4#
Nice defenses there by Ihantala.
Bomba lands a nice shot to the body.
Ihantala getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ihantala moves forwards but Bomba connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Ihantala 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.
Ihantala throws a shot from downtown. Bomba moves away and avoids it.
Bomba moves out of range of the strikes.
Bomba doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Bomba avoids the head kick by Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with a hook. Bomba ducked under it nicely.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Ihantala.
Ihantala lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Ihantala falls off balance throwing a combination
and Bomba counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Ihantala thinking.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tali Ihantala dominated that second round.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Ihantala pivots, looking for a leg kick but Bomba is out of range and Ihantala settles back down.
Ihantala lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Ihantala takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Ihantala throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Bomba.
Bomba moves out of range as Ihantala throws a body kick.
Ihantala fails to land with a series of punches.
Good standup being displayed there by Ihantala as he connects with a hook.
Bomba throws a looping overhand right but Ihantala ducks down to avoid it.
Ihantala misses with a head kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bomba connects with an inside leg kick.
Ihantala pushes Bomba away with a front kick.
Ihantala misses with a few strikes there.
A big left from Bomba misses. #T1#
Ihantala moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
A jab from Ihantala finds it's way through Bomba's defenses.
A head kick misses from Ihantala.
Bomba throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Bomba takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Ihantala fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
A head kick misses from Ihantala.
Ihantala works the jab nicely.
Bomba ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
The fighters circling - Bomba throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Bomba wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
A shot to the liver by Bomba. Beautiful body shot.#T2#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Bomba scores with a nice strike.
Bomba keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Bomba throws out a counter right but Ihantala avoids it with no problem.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Bomba.
Bomba walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Ihantala does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.
Ihantala on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Bomba throws a lazy right hand but Ihantala sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Bomba has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Bomba comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Bomba looks to throw the jab but Ihantala is out of range.
Bomba lands with a cross.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Bomba closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so. #T3#
Bomba throws a jab when Ihantala was well out of range.
Bomba takes one to the chin there.
Bomba misses with a body kick.
Ihantala takes a jab right on the kisser.
Ihantala looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Ihantala misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Bomba.
Bomba thows a left - swing and a miss!
Ihantala tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Bomba was well out of range. Poor timing from Ihantala.
It seemed like Bomba was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Bomba looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Ihantala bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Ihantala throws a body kick that misses.
A looping hook to the body misses from Bomba. Ihantala does a little dance to reset his feet.#T4#
Bomba stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Ihantala throws out a loose jab but Bomba uses good head movement to avoid it.
Ihantala lands a nice looking body kick.
Ihantala lands with an overhand left.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Ihantala misses with a series of wild punches.
Bomba scores with a hook to the body. Ihantala takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Ihantala with the inside leg kick.
Ihantala throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Bomba counters with an inside leg kick.
Bomba connects with a leg kick.
A good leg kick by Bomba.

And that's the end of the fight!
That was a close round. You could make an argument for either fighter but I would give it to Tali Ihantala.
I think Ihantala has won this one but let's see what the judges have to say. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Yves DeLean scores the fight 29:29
Judge Ian Loll scores the fight 29:28
Judge Dillan Fox scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by majority decision... Tali Ihantala!

Tali Ihantala decided to go for the less than humble approach in his post fight interview, telling everyone how he is going to conquer the world. The crowd seemed to like it when really that sort of approach could have gone either way.

 

Event: HFC Speed Brawls I     
Date:   Sep 26, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Baraka comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Baraka throws a front kick aimed at Ihantala's knee but Ihantala avoids it well.
Baraka looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Ihantala's coach down at Heavy Metal was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Ihantala's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
Baraka misses with a straight right.
Juju Baraka seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Baraka moves into range and connects with a jab.
Ihantala throws a lazy right hand but Baraka sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Ihantala slips under a jab from Baraka.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Ihantala! But no joy.
Baraka thows a left - swing and a miss!
Baraka fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Baraka cracks Ihantala with a right hand to the side of the head.
Baraka lands a body shot.
Ihantala throws an off balance right hand
enabling Baraka to counter with a crisp jab.
Baraka misses with a left hand
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#CUT2#It looks like Juju Baraka has been cut.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Baraka moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Baraka throws a shot from downtown. Ihantala moves away and avoids it.
Baraka backing away here, and Ihantala unleashes a leg kick that just misses.#T1#
Good leg kick by Baraka.
Baraka misses the jab.
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Ihantala bobs and weaves and then throws a good body kick.
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Ihantala tries to bum rush Baraka with a series of wild strikes but Baraka uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Baraka takes a swing at Ihantala's ribcage but misses.
Baraka misses with a hook. Ihantala ducked under it nicely.
Baraka throws a looping overhand right but Ihantala ducks down to avoid it.
Baraka fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Ihantala is out of range.
A solid body kick from Baraka.
Baraka slips under a jab from Ihantala.
Baraka scores with a leg kick. #T2#
Baraka throws a big shot that misses.
Baraka misses with a right hand
enabling Ihantala to counter with a crisp jab.
Baraka lands with a hook. Ihantala tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Baraka.
Baraka misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
Baraka dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Baraka connects with a good right hand that stumbles Ihantala. Ihantala circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
A swing and a miss from Baraka.
A jab from Baraka misses.
Baraka wants to clinch up but Ihantala keeps it at a distance.
Ihantala slips under a jab from Baraka.
Baraka throws a wild body kick that Ihantala sees coming a mile off.
A clash of legs there as Baraka blocks the low kick.#T3#
A clash of legs there as Baraka blocks the low kick.
Baraka fakes the leg kick and cracks Ihantala in the body.
Baraka misses with a hook. Ihantala ducked under it nicely.
Baraka misses with a jab to the body
and Ihantala counters with a lovely straight right hand!#CL#
Baraka drives through and clinches with Ihantala against the cage.
Baraka has a couple of punches blocked by Ihantala.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Ihantala.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Baraka.
A short left from Baraka.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Ihantala.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Ihantala.
Ihantala scores with a shot to the side of Baraka's head.
Baraka struggles to land a body shot inside as Ihantala controls his hands.
Baraka is trying to force a seperation but Ihantala has the dominant position.
Baraka misses with a body punch.
Baraka swings wildly with an uppercut but Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid it.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala goes for a body shot but it's blocked. #T4#
Baraka scores with a hook to the body.#BC2#
Ihantala escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Baraka's corner calls for a 1-2. Baraka obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Baraka lunges at Ihantala with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Ihantala's hand.
Baraka lands with a straight right. Ihantala didn't see that one coming.
Baraka misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Ihantala 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.
Baraka misses with a head kick.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Baraka keeping at a good range here, avoiding a leg kick.
As Ihantala tries to get set, Baraka tries to push him back and clinch up but Ihantala manages to avoid the attempt.
Baraka rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Ihantala counters with a right hand to the body.
Baraka lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Baraka darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Baraka looks to land a right hand but Ihantala moved out of range.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Juju Baraka dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Juju Baraka's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.#R2#
Ihantala misses with a low kick as Baraka jumps back.
A shot to the liver by Baraka. Beautiful body shot.
Baraka waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Ihantala.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut. Baraka saw that one coming.
Baraka lands a nice shot to the body.
A nice leg kick lands there from Baraka.
Baraka will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Baraka throws a hook but Ihantala avoids it easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Baraka misses with an uppercut. Ihantala saw that one coming.
Ihantala swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Baraka misses with a left hand #CL2#
and Ihantala counters into the clinch. Nicely done.
Ihantala misses with some punches. #BC2#
Ihantala pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Ihantala throws a leg kick that is checked
and Baraka counters with a nice low kick that buckles Ihantala's knee momentarily.#T1#
Baraka with a nice calf kick.
Baraka lands with an overhand left.
Ihantala takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
A decent looking cross lands there for Baraka.
Baraka throws an overhand right that lands on Ihantala's shoulder, as Ihantala tries to avoid the shot.
Juju Baraka is winning the standup battle so far.
Baraka throws a shot from downtown. Ihantala moves away and avoids it.
Ihantala throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Baraka sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Baraka is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Ihantala.
Ihantala is clearly looking to counter with head kicks.
Ihantala takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?
Baraka misses the jab.
A clash of legs there as Ihantala blocks the low kick.
Baraka scores with a one two! Ihantala had his feet all tangled up there and couldn't avoid the strikes.
Baraka swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Ihantala.#T2#
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Good shot there by Baraka.
Baraka's jab looks to have found its range, popping Ihantala under the eye.
Baraka throws a predictable looking body shot
and Ihantala cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Ihantala takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Ihantala throws a low kick but Baraka moves out of range easily.
Baraka feinted there with a counter leg kick.
Ihantala on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Ihantala takes a punch to the jaw and another one to the bread basket.
Ihantala throws a right and a left that Baraka avoids nicely.
Baraka digs a good hook to Ihantala's body.
Ihantala misses with a combination
and Baraka counters with a nice body kick.
Ihantala takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Ihantala's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.#T3#
Baraka lands with an uppercut that bounces Ihantala off the cage and back into range.
A jab from Baraka misses.
Baraka throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Jab by Ihantala.
Baraka misses with a leg kick.
A slapping body kick lands there for Baraka.
Baraka keeps Ihantala at a distance using the push kick.
Nice defenses there by Baraka.
Baraka lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Baraka chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Baraka lands a nice looking kick to the body. Ihantala takes a step back to recover.
Baraka misses with a wild body shot.
Baraka throws the left hand but Ihantala avoids the punch easily.#T4#
Baraka sizes up Ihantala with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Baraka misses with a leg kick
and Ihantala counters with a left and a right that stings Baraka.
Baraka misses the shot to the body.
Baraka throws a half hearted mid kick.
Ihantala jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Ihantala throws a leg kick
and Baraka counters with a leg kick.
Baraka bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Ihantala's head backwards.
Baraka's Muay Thai looks sharper than normal. He has obviously been working on it in the gym.
Ihantala scores with the left hand. Baraka knows he should have avoided that one.
The fighters circling - Baraka throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Ihantala wants to counter the offense by Baraka and move into the clinch position.
Baraka avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
A telegraphed right hand from Ihantala misses the target.
Baraka connects with a crisp jab.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Juju Baraka dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Juju Baraka's cut.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
That kick from Baraka tenderised Ihantala's leg. Ihantala is trying to keep his angry face on.
Baraka takes a push kick to the midsection and stumbles backwards.
Baraka showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Ihantala.
Baraka scores with a nice head shot.
Ihantala throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Nice defenses there by Ihantala.
Baraka looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Baraka feints and then cracks Ihantala's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Ihantala down.
Baraka lands a nice shot to the body.
A telegraphed right hand from Baraka misses the target.
Ihantala throws a lazy right hand but Baraka sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#T1#
Baraka throws a shot from downtown. Ihantala moves away and avoids it.
A looping hook to the body misses from Ihantala. Baraka does a little dance to reset his feet.
Baraka is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Ihantala can do to turn this around?
Baraka moves out of range of the body kick from Ihantala.
Baraka scores with a leg kick.
Ihantala throws an overhand right that lands on Baraka's shoulder, as Baraka tries to avoid the shot.
Ihantala throws a head kick that half lands.
Baraka throws a hook to the side of Ihantala's head but Ihantala sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Ihantala now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Baraka misses with a low kick.
Ihantala counters with a body kick.
A jab from Ihantala misses.
Baraka throws a quick inside leg kick.
Baraka lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Ihantala is looking to chop away at Baraka's legs.
Tali Ihantala has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Ihantala lands the left hand.#CUT2#Juju Baraka's cut is getting worse.
Baraka throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Ihantala throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Ihantala keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Ihantala takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ihantala lets loose with a powerful body kick. Baraka will feel that in the morning.
Baraka thuds a mid kick into his opponent's body. That will wear on Ihantala if he has to take too many more of those.
Ihantala misses with a few strikes there.
Baraka tried to counter with a leg kick but Ihantala avoided it.
Baraka lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Ihantala has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Ihantala takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Ihantala is looking to slow Baraka down with leg kicks.
Ihantala throws a body punch but Baraka moves out of range. #T3#
Baraka is looking to chop away at Ihantala's legs.
A big left from Ihantala misses.
Ihantala has developed a nice purple lump on his ribcage, as a result of some heavy body kicks from Baraka.
Baraka uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Ihantala.
Baraka throws a jab but it's blocked by Ihantala.
Ihantala steps in looking to clinch after the strikes miss from Baraka.
Baraka connects with an inside leg kick.
Baraka thows a left - swing and a miss!
Baraka looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Baraka throws a solid leg kick but Ihantala takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Baraka.
Baraka thumps Ihantala with a low kick.
Ihantala is looking to slow Baraka down with leg kicks.
Baraka getting the better of the striking in that exchange.#T4#
Baraka buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Baraka throws a leg kick which misses Ihantala's front leg but catches the back leg as Ihantala tries to avoid it.
Baraka throws a half hearted mid kick.
Baraka takes a jab right on the kisser.
Ihantala misses with a hook.
Ihantala defending well as Baraka loads up on a big left hand.
Ihantala slips a straight right by Baraka.
And Ihantala responds with a good body kick, but Baraka manages to step out the way in time.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Ihantala takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Ihantala misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Baraka fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Ihantala on the side of the head.
Baraka throws a nice inside leg kick.
Juju Baraka is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
A telegraphed right hand from Baraka misses the target.
Ihantala is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.

And that's the end of the fight!
Juju Baraka showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Baraka has outscored his opponent in every aspect of the fight today. Only a scarily incompetent judge or two will keep him from a well deserved win... Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge James Ackerman scores the fight 30:27
Judge William Gold scores the fight 30:27
Judge James Glass scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Juju Baraka!

A relieved looking Juju Baraka thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

 

Event: HFC 36 - Wanker vs Bronstein     
Date:   Aug 29, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
A cross from Joestar lands.
Ihantala throws a mid kick that lands with a slap.
Joestar uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Ihantala.
A countering left hand to the body from Joestar misses.
Ihantala misses with a hook. Joestar ducked under it nicely.
Joestar is looking for the big counter here.
Joestar looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple. #CUT#It looks like Johan Joestar has been cut.
Ihantala connects with a leg kick.
Ihantala tries to clinch
and Joestar cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Joestar connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Ihantala misses with a head kick.
Joestar takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Ihantala gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Joestar.#T1#
Ihantala misses with a head kick.
Ihantala throws a big shot that misses.#KD#
Ihantala lands a big head kick that sends Joestar tumbling to the mat! Ihantala takes a step backwards and waves Joestar back to his feet - he wants the finish!
Ihantala throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Joestar.
Ihantala misses with a double jab
enabling Joestar to counter with a crisp jab.
A head kick misses from Joestar.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ihantala falls off balance throwing a combination
enabling Joestar to counter with a crisp jab. #T2#
Ihantala lands a right hook to the body.
Ihantala throws a head kick that misses.
Ihantala connects with a good right hand that stumbles Joestar. Joestar circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Joestar scores with a shot to the body.
Ihantala misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Joestar.
Joestar connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Ihantala's hands.
Joestar looks to land a right hand but Ihantala moved out of range.
Ihantala lands a nice looking kick to the body. Joestar takes a step back to recover.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.#T3#
Ihantala misses with a kick to the body
and Joestar counters with a straight right hand.
Ihantala lands with a good body shot.
A jab lands there for Ihantala.
Joestar avoids a kick to the body.
Ihantala staying out of range there.
Ihantala with a hook.#CUT#That has opened up Johan Joestar's cut even more.#CL#
Ihantala rushes Joestar and presses him up against the cage.
Joestar blocking some punches.
Joestar tries to circle away but Ihantala has him pinned against the cage.
Ihantala blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Ihantala misses with the head strike. #T4#
Ihantala swings wildly with an uppercut but Joestar uses good head movement to avoid it.
Joestar tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Ihantala lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Ihantala tries a body shot but Joestar blocks it.
Joestar lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Joestar working aggressively here. #BC#
Ihantala breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Ihantala cracks Joestar with an open hand slap.
Ihantala uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Joestar.
Ihantala definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.#KD#
Ihantala sends Joestar crashing to the mat with a devastating uppercut! Ihantala is motioning to the referee to let Joestar up. He wants to try and finish this one on the feet!#ROC#Joestar is rocked!
Joestar tries to get into range but Ihantala steps to the side and lands a beautiful hook that drops Joestar! He's faceplanted into the mat, ass in the air... he's out cold! That's an image he won't want to show his grandkids when he gets older! Ihantala scores the big KO victory!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:50 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Tali Ihantala!
Tali Ihantala spent the whole post fight interview bigging himself up. It didn't go down that well with the fans after a while as they thought it was a bit arrogant.

 

Event: HFC Bloodbath 2     
Date:   Jun 05, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Ihantala connects with a single shot there.
Baraka walks into a stiff left hand from Ihantala.
Baraka wants to land a leg kick but Ihantala is out of range.
Ihantala looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Ihantala misses with a telegraphed body shot
and Baraka cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Baraka misses with a looping right.
Baraka thows a body kick. Ihantala tries to catch it but that hurt him.
Baraka takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Ihantala swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Baraka lands with a shot to the body.
Nice jab there from Ihantala.
Baraka has been working on his boxing with his coaches at The Wild Beasts Zoo in the buildup to the fight.
Ihantala throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Baraka counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Baraka.#T1#
Ihantala throws an off balance right hand
and Baraka finishes the little exchange by landing a big kick to the body.
A nice inside leg kick there by Baraka. That's going to slow Ihantala down.
Baraka lands a nice hook to Ihantala's body. Ihantala takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Ihantala throws a right and a left that both miss.
A head kick misses from Ihantala.
Some bone on bone action there as Baraka checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one.
Baraka slips under a jab from Ihantala.
Baraka swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Baraka throws a body shot but no joy.
Baraka keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Baraka appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
Baraka connects with a right hand. Ihantala shakes it off.#T2#
Ihantala lands with a good body shot.
Ihantala misses with a lunging right hand
and Baraka counters with a nice body shot.
Ihantala tries to land a front kick but Baraka steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Ihantala throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Ihantala uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Baraka.
Ihantala looks to land a combination but Baraka avoids it well.
Baraka tries to land a leg kick but Ihantala saw it coming and moves away.
Ihantala 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.
Baraka misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ihantala.
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Baraka throws out the jab. #T3#
Baraka keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
A counter left hand to the body from Baraka misses its target.
Ihantala pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Baraka lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Ihantala connects with a jab.
Ihantala checks the leg kick nicely there.
Ihantala throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Ihantala moves away from the strike by Baraka.
Baraka throws a mid kick that lands with a slap.
Baraka walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Baraka looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.#T4#
Ihantala keeps the fight on the outside.
A slow jab from Ihantala misses its intended target.
Baraka dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Ihantala chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Baraka can pounce on him.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala misses with an attempted mid kick.
Baraka scoring well with a low kick there.
Ihantala ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Ihantala pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Ihantala swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
and Baraka counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Baraka throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Juju Baraka dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Ihantala lands with an uppercut that bounces Baraka off the cage and back into range.
Baraka lands with an overhand left.
Ihantala lands a nice shot that snaps Baraka's head back.
A nice combination there by Ihantala. #CUT2#It looks like Juju Baraka has been cut.
A jab from Ihantala does it's job there.
Baraka darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Ihantala darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Ihantala throws a leg kick that is checked
and Baraka counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Ihantala misses with a body shot.
Nice cross by Ihantala.#T1#
Ihantala slips under a jab from Baraka.
Ihantala swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Ihantala takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Ihantala scores with a nice strike.
A head kick misses from Baraka.
It seemed like Ihantala was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Ihantala ducks right into an uppercut from Baraka.
Juju Baraka is winning the standup battle so far.
Ihantala scores with a nice strike.
Baraka does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.
Ihantala works Baraka's body with a nice hook.
Nice straight punches there by Ihantala. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Ihantala.#T2#
Ihantala throws a predictable looking body shot
and Baraka counters with a low kick, right behind Ihantala 's knee.
Baraka is looking to chop away at Ihantala's legs.
Ihantala moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Ihantala misses with a hook. Baraka ducked under it nicely.
Baraka fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Ihantala manages to avoid it.
Ihantala throws a leg kick but Baraka moved away.
Baraka swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Baraka looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Ihantala misses with a wild body shot.
Baraka throws a shot to the body. #T3#
Ihantala rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Baraka counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Baraka lands a kick to the ribs of his opponent. Nice work there - in and out in a flash.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut
and Baraka counters with a straight right hand.
Ihantala moves out of range of the leg kick from Baraka.
Ihantala slips a jab from Baraka.
Ihantala connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Ihantala uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Baraka.
Ihantala now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Baraka pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
The fighters circling - Baraka throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Baraka throws a mid kick that lands with a slap. #T4#
A looping hook to the body misses from Baraka. Ihantala does a little dance to reset his feet.
Baraka chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Ihantala throws a body kick, spinning off balance
and Baraka counters with a thumping low kick.
Ihantala chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Baraka can pounce on him.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ihantala misses the shot to the body.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Ihantala lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Baraka has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Baraka and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Baraka defending well as Ihantala loads up on a big left hand.
Baraka turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Baraka lands a nice leg kick that just misses Ihantala's sensitive parts.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Juju Baraka will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Juju Baraka's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Ihantala throws a shot to the body.
Ihantala uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Baraka.
Ihantala raises up his leg as if looking to counter with a high kick.
Ihantala lands a vicious shot with the stealth of a sniper and the strength of a viper. Are vipers that strong? I can think of lots of things that are stronger than a viper - not many rhyme with sniper though.
Baraka takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Baraka is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Ihantala ducks under a wild hook from Baraka.
Ihantala follows through with a counter body kick but it doesn't land.
Jab, jab by Ihantala - just one landing.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jab, jab by Baraka - just one landing.
Baraka takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Ihantala's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.
An inside leg kick from Baraka misses. #T1#
Ihantala throws out a leg kick but Baraka moves out of range and Ihantala only half commits.
Ihantala misses with an uppercut. Baraka saw that one coming.
Baraka throws a hook but Ihantala avoids it easily.
Ihantala scores with a body shot.
Ihantala walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Baraka checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
A counter left hand to the body from Baraka misses its target.
Ihantala lands with a right hand.
Baraka takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
A decent looking cross lands there for Ihantala.#CUT2#Juju Baraka's cut is getting worse.
Ihantala checks a leg kick.
Ihantala looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Tali Ihantala has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
An inside leg kick lands from Ihantala.
Ihantala throws a low kick but Baraka moves out of range easily.
Good exchange - Baraka coming out on top.
Baraka throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Baraka throws a wild body kick that Ihantala sees coming a mile off.
Ihantala misses with a series of wild punches.
You can see that Ihantala has visibly slowed down as a result of the leg kicks
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!
Baraka is looking to slow Ihantala down with leg kicks. #T3#
Ihantala missing with a left hand there. Baraka was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Ihantala throws a jab when Baraka was well out of range.
Ihantala misses with a jab, cross combination.
A slapping leg kick lands for Baraka.
Jab from Baraka.
Ihantala uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Baraka.
A nice side step and Ihantala releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Baraka moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Baraka's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Ihantala connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Baraka scrambles back to his feet.
Ihantala misses with a hook to the body
and Baraka counters with a straight right hand.
Ihantala misses with a hook
and Baraka counters with a nice uppercut. #T4#
Baraka connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
A slapping leg kick lands for Ihantala.
Ihantala tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Baraka walks into a stiff left hand from Ihantala.
Baraka looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Ihantala has developed a nice purple lump on his ribcage, as a result of some heavy body kicks from Baraka.
Ihantala gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Baraka.
Ihantala looks to land a right hand but Baraka moved out of range.
Baraka fires out a quick counter leg kick but Ihantala just manages to avoid it.
Baraka lands with an overhand left.
Juju Baraka is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Ihantala on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.

And that's the end of the fight!
That was a close round. You could make an argument for either fighter but I would give it to Juju Baraka.
Well Baraka has outscored his opponent in every aspect of the fight today. Only a scarily incompetent judge or two will keep him from a well deserved win... Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Russell Pearce scores the fight 30:27
Judge Anthony Taglia scores the fight 30:28
Judge Steve Montenegro scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Juju Baraka!

Juju Baraka decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

 

Event: Quick Fight Championship     
Date:   Jun 23, 2019
#R1#
A nice inside leg kick there by Ihantala. That's going to slow Rodgers down.
Rodgers chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Ihantala can pounce on him.
Ihantala throws a quick inside leg kick.
Ihantala throws a leg kick which misses Rodgers's front leg but catches the back leg as Rodgers tries to avoid it.
Ihantala ducks right into an uppercut from Rodgers.
Rodgers should think about turning a few of those tyres round his middle into muscle if he wants people to take him seriously as an athlete.
A jab from Rodgers misses.
Ihantala is looking to slow Rodgers down with leg kicks.
Rodgers cracks Ihantala with a right hand to the side of the head.
A nice leg kick lands there from Ihantala.
Rodgers stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Rodgers throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Ihantala fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Rodgers.
Ihantala delivers a nice body kick.
Ihantala lands a nice leg kick that just misses Rodgers's sensitive parts.
Rodgers looks to land a combination but Ihantala avoids it well.
Rodgers's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.
Ihantala fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Ihantala tried to score with a low kick but Rodgers checks it.
Ihantala throws a quick inside leg kick. #T1#
Rodgers throws a lazy right hand but Ihantala sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Ihantala ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Ihantala avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
As Rodgers backs away, Ihantala returns fire with a leg kick that just misses.
Rodgers blocks a head kick by Ihantala.
Rodgers is looking to score with low kicks.
Ihantala looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Rodgers stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Ihantala.
Ihantala bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Ihantala half committed to a counter leg kick.
Ihantala throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range.
Tali Ihantala seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Rodgers takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie.
Ihantala feints with a shoulder and throws a nice leg kick to Rodgers's calf.
A big left from Rodgers misses.
Rodgers looks to land a right hand but Ihantala moved out of range.
Rodgers 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.
Ihantala closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Thud! ouch! good body kick from Ihantala - that will leave a mark!
Rodgers misses with a body shot. #T2#
Ihantala scores with a head kick. Rodgers tried to block it but didn't get his arm up in time.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Rodgers throws a looping overhand right but Ihantala ducks down to avoid it.
Rodgers takes a push kick to the midsection and stumbles backwards.
Ihantala throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
A leg kick checked by Rodgers.
Rodgers only half commits to the counter leg kick.
Rodgers sizes up Ihantala with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Rodgers looks to score with a jab to the body but Ihantala is just out of range.
Ihantala slips under a jab from Rodgers.
Ihantala displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Rodgers throws out the jab.
Rodgers takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Ihantala wants to land a leg kick but Rodgers is out of range.
Rodgers works Ihantala's body with a nice hook.
Ihantala gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Rodgers.
Ihantala moves away from the strike by Rodgers.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Ihantala. Rodgers shrugs it off though. #T3#
Ihantala moves out of range as Rodgers strikes.#KD2#
Rodgers lands a big right hand that sends Ihantala crashing to the mat! Rodgers stays standing though and waves Ihantala back to his feet!#ROC2#
Ihantala is rocked!#CUT2#
It looks like Tali Ihantala has been cut.
Rodgers moves in close and cracks Ihantala with a massive right hand! Ihantala, frozen momentarily in time, tumbles to the canvas, already out cold! A brutal knockout by Rodgers!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:15 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Anthony Rodgers!

 

 
 
 
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