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Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: C282: Marley vs Haggar     
Date:   Feb 25, 2024
#R1#
Gracie closes the distance but Matsuda moves to the side
enabling Matsuda to counter with a crisp jab.
Gracie thuds his right hand into Matsuda's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Jab from Matsuda.
Gracie tries to close the distance and clinch but Matsuda swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Gracie fails to land with a series of punches.
A head kick misses from Gracie.
Gracie throws a sloppy head kick and Matsuda moves out of range easily.
Gracie works Matsuda's body with a nice hook.#TD2#
Matsuda looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.#SUB2#
Matsuda is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Gracie is just riding it out for now. Matsuda eventually gives up the hold.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Still in half guard, Matsuda seems content to control.#T1#
Gracie wants to get back to full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Gracie is working hard here to advance position.#SUB2#
Matsuda is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Matsuda scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Gracie is looking to improve his position.
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes. #T2#
Matsuda looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Gracie trying to hold on to Matsuda's head to control him but Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda wants to take a breather but Gracie is having none of it.
Gracie gets full guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Gracie looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Matsuda is in close to Gracie's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Matsuda looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
Matsuda passes Gracie's right leg, so he's now in half guard. #T3#
Matsuda wants to take a breather but Gracie is having none of it.
Gracie wants to control but Matsuda is keeping busy.
Gracie tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg.
Gracie on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Gracie tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Matsuda lands a nice short elbow.
Gracie is trying to control but can't.
Matsuda lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Gracie tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.
Matsuda is trying to control the action in half guard but Gracie is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #T4#
Gracie wants to control but Matsuda is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Gracie wants to improve his position but Matsuda is controlling well.
Gracie is refusing to be controlled, as Matsuda sits in half guard.
Gracie is looking to improve his position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Gracie slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Gracie can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Matsuda controls the pace.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Gracie pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Gracie ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Gracie looks to score with a jab to the body but Matsuda is just out of range.
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Gracie!
Gracie misses with a head kick.
Gracie looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Matsuda closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
The crowd cheers as Gracie lands an impressive looking overhand right. Matsuda doesn't seem phased though.
Gracie tries to clinch up#TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#SUB2#
Matsuda drops back looking for a leg! Gracie is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Gracie manages to kick Matsuda off! Matsuda jumps back into Gracie's guard. #SUB#
Gracie throws his legs up looking to secure a triangle. Oh, that looks pretty tight, I gotta say! Matsuda escapes and throws Gracie's legs to the side, diving into side control!
Matsuda is chipping away with strikes. #T1#
Gracie wants to control but Matsuda postures up.
Gracie manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Matsuda trying to control from half guard but Gracie is working away.
Gracie has hold of Matsuda's hands but Matsuda slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Gracie wants to improve his position but Matsuda is controlling well.
Matsuda has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Gracie moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Matsuda connects with a couple of short punches.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #T2#
Matsuda is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Gracie is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
Matsuda lands a couple of digs.
Gracie keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Gracie knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Matsuda on the ground.
Gracie trying to keep a closed guard but Matsuda is proving a slippery customer.
Matsuda trying to control but Gracie is working from the bottom.
Gracie not looking particularly offensive just at the moment. #T3#
Matsuda trying to control but Gracie is working from the bottom.
Matsuda landing some decent shots from guard.
Matsuda distracts Gracie with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Matsuda advances position into side control!
Gracie is working to avoid the ground and pound but Matsuda connects with a decent elbow.
Matsuda scores with a couple of short elbows.
Gracie tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Matsuda wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Gracie is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Tanaka Matsuda has got the better of the ground game so far.
Matsuda working the ground and pound.
Matsuda looks up at the clock and then as Gracie takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Matsuda smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude! #T4#
Matsuda working the ground and pound.
Matsuda in side control lands a decent elbow.
Gracie tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Matsuda wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Gracie tries to control but Matsuda manages to take his back.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda controlling from the back.
Gracie tries to escape the position.
Matsuda softening up his opponent with strikes here.
Gracie is trapped and Matsuda is scoring with shots to the head and body. #SUB2#
Gracie is having to fend off submission attempts from Matsuda, who is looking to sink in the choke. Matsuda doesn't have the hooks in though and Gracie manages to reverse position! He's now on top, in his opponent's guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!#R3#
Gracie rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Matsuda moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Gracie uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Holden Gracie is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
The fighters circling - Matsuda throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Holden Gracie seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda avoids a punch combination nicely.
A big right from Matsuda misses.
Gracie lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Matsuda circles away quickly and effectively.
Gracie tries a head kick but it misses.
Matsuda throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
The fighters circling - Gracie throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Gracie goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
Matsuda has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Gracie throws a head kick but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda feints the counter takedown.
Gracie throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Matsuda stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Gracie is looking to clinch.
Gracie fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.#T1#
Gracie looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.#CL#
Matsuda tries to keep at a distance but Gracie has taken the fight into the clinch.
Matsuda lands with a left to the head.
A short uppercut from Gracie.
Gracie blocks a body shot from Matsuda.
Gracie lands with a left to the head.
Gracie misses with a hook from the clinch. #TD2#
Matsuda has clasped his hands together around Gracie's back... aaand, he's got a takedown into side control. Nicely done.
Gracie tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Matsuda wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Matsuda working his ground and pound in the gym. So far it seems to be working well.
Gracie takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Gracie trying his best to control but Matsuda has mounted him.
Gracie is desperately trying to improve his position but Matsuda has a good base and remains in mount.
Matsuda fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
Matsuda is still in mount, landing shots to his trapped opponent. Gracie can't stay in a position like this for much longer.
Matsuda lands a nice shot to the head.
Holden Gracie has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Matsuda tries to control but Gracie wriggling away.
Gracie is looking to improve his position but Matsuda isn't that keen on the idea.
Matsuda landing strikes from the mount.
Matsuda landing strikes from the mount and Gracie is in trouble!
Gracie can't escape the position.
Matsuda avoids the attempt from Gracie to control.
Gracie working to try and regain half guard. #T3#
Matsuda lands a heavy elbow.
Gracie is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Matsuda has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Gracie's face.
Matsuda lands with some vicious ground and pound - can Gracie hang on?#ROC2#Gracie is rocked!
Gracie is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Oh Gracie is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Gracie tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Gracie seems to have got his legs back now.
Matsuda trying to control but Gracie is having none of it.
Gracie tries to get back to half guard but can't. #T4#
Matsuda working the ground and pound effectively.
Gracie is desperately trying to improve his position but Matsuda has a good base and remains in mount.
Matsuda takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Gracie working to try and regain half guard. #SUB2#
Matsuda is going oldschool here, as he tries to force Gracie to tap using a forearm choke. This isn't 1993 though, so Gracie shrugs it off.
Tanaka Matsuda is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Matsuda trying to control but Gracie is having none of it.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Gracie is in all sorts of trouble here.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Matsuda winning every round here. Surely the decision will go his way and he'll pick up a well deserved decision victory. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Emerson Jorge scores the fight 27:30
Judge Matheus Silva scores the fight 27:30
Judge Luis Engracia scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

Tanaka Matsuda seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: C280: Marley vs Olsen II     
Date:   Feb 18, 2024
#R1#
Lang stuns Matsuda with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Lang fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.
Lang throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Lang throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Matsuda sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Nice body kick there by Lang.
Lang throws a body kick that misses #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Matsuda is looking to work some ground and pound but Lang has wrist control.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Matsuda accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Lang working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Matsuda.
Lang preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Matsuda looking to pass the guard.
Lang tries to land a sweep but no joy. #T1#
Matsuda pushes down on Lang's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Lang wants to get back to full guard.
Matsuda looks to land a strike but Lang avoids it nicely and regains full guard.
Matsuda landing some decent shots from guard.
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses.
Matsuda pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Lang is keeping the position for now.
Matsuda postures up in Lang's guard and throws a big left but Lang blocks it. #T2#
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses.
Matsuda slips nicely into half guard.
Lang is trying to get back to full guard.
Matsuda is looking to pass Lang's guard but actually Lang recovers to full guard.
Matsuda's corner is telling him to maintain position.
Lang controlling the position.
We must be close to a standup if these guys don't pick up the pace.#T3#
Matsuda trying to move into half guard but instead Lang has managed to sweep!#REVB#
Lang is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.#SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Matsuda looking to hit a scissor sweep but Lang is one step ahead there. #SUB#
Matsuda is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Lang defends well.
Lang trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #T4#
Matsuda is trying to keep Lang in close.
Lang trying to control the position from guard on top but Matsuda is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Lang's corner is telling him to maintain position.#REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Matsuda lands with a straight right. Lang didn't see that one coming.
Lang throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Lang moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Clubber Lang seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Lang scores with a sloppy right hand. Matsuda should have avoided that one.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Clubber Lang will probably get the nod.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Matsuda connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Lang's hands.
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
An inside leg kick from Lang misses.
Matsuda scores with a body shot.
Lang takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Lang tries to land a front kick but Matsuda steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Matsuda scores with a hook.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Lang sprawls well. Lang wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Matsuda gets slowly back to his feet.
Lang thinks about the counter body kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda moves out of range as Lang strikes.
Lang scores with a punch to the head.
The fighters circling - Lang throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
A counter left hand to the body from Matsuda misses its target.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Lang does a little dance to reset his feet.#T1#
Matsuda lands a nice looking body shot.
Lang is looking to slow Matsuda down with leg kicks.
Lang looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Lang tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Matsuda manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Lang throws a chopping leg kick but Matsuda manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
Matsuda shoots in and drives through. Lang sprawls well.
Lang tests Matsuda's chin there with a solid looking shot.
A low kick lands for Lang.
Lang uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.
Lang takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Lang wants to clinch up but Matsuda keeps it at a distance.#T2#
Matsuda moves out of range of the leg kick from Lang.
Lang listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Lang connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Lang does a little dance to reset his feet.#TD#
Matsuda shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Lang is trying to defend but Matsuda finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Lang controlling the position for now.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Matsuda wants to take a breather but Lang is having none of it.
Matsuda is nestled in close to Lang, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Matsuda prevents Lang from improving his position.#T3#
Lang blocking the ground and pound attempt from Matsuda.
Matsuda thows a huge punch but Lang dodges it nicely.
Lang controlling the position well.
Matsuda thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Lang's head. #T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Matsuda drops an elbow to the side of Lang's head.
Lang controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.
Matsuda thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Lang is trying is best to control the position here.
Lang is continuing to stall.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda is keen to just control but Lang is a slippery customer.
Matsuda missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Matsuda misses with a head shot. Lang uses the momentum to regain guard.
Matsuda postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda 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. Let's get this one finished - here comes the final round!#R3#
Good leg kick by Lang.
Nice body punch from Lang.
Lang fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut. Lang saw that one coming.
Matsuda cracks Lang with a good jab.
Lang throws a jab but it's blocked by Matsuda.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Matsuda takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Lang listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Lang throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Lang throws a leg kick but Matsuda sees it coming and moves out of range.
Matsuda avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Matsuda takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Lang works the jab nicely.#T1#
Lang throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
Matsuda slips a jab from Lang.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Lang keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Matsuda fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Lang fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Matsuda.
Matsuda throws a looping overhand right but Lang ducks down to avoid it.
Matsuda wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
A telegraphed right hand from Matsuda misses the target.
Lang was about to counter that last move with a leg kick but changes his mind.#T2#
Lang throws a right hand that misses
and Lang takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Lang lands a slapping body shot.
Lang throws a shot to the body.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
Matsuda thows a left - swing and a miss!
Clubber Lang seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Lang misses with the body kick#TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Matsuda 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.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Matsuda controlling the pace.
Lang has his hands clasped together around Matsuda's back. He's all about the action.
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes. #T3#
Lang blocking the ground and pound attempt from Matsuda.
Lang wants to control but Matsuda is keeping busy. #SUB#
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses, also allowing Lang to regain full guard. #T4#
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.
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but Lang is retaining full guard.
Lang working a defensive guard but Matsuda passes into half guard.
Lang won't allow Matsuda to pass to mount.
Lang regains full guard. Nicely done.
Matsuda stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Lang swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Lang avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Lang is keeping the position.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Lang is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Clubber Lang.
I think Lang has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Felipe Paraventi scores the fight 29:29
Judge Alexandre Firmino scores the fight 28:29
Judge Mauricio Rocha scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by majority decision... Clubber Lang!

A very excited looking Clubber Lang 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: C276: Billabong vs Malley     
Date:   Feb 04, 2024
#R1#
Matsuda takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Adam misses with a low kick as Matsuda jumps back.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Adam sprawls and moves away.
Matsuda tries to score a power double leg takedown but Adam sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Matsuda somewhat.
Adam throws a solid leg kick but Matsuda takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Adam.
Adam fails to land with a series of punches.
Matsuda lands with a shot to the body.
Adam throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Adam misses with a body shot.
Adam misses with a wild body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#TD2#
Adam gets a double leg takedown into Matsuda's guard.#SUB#
Matsuda throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Adam throws a strike but Matsuda rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVR##T1#
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Adam is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Matsuda lands a couple of digs.
Adam is controlling Matsuda's posture.
Matsuda passes into half guard.
Matsuda prevents Adam from improving his position.
Matsuda slips a nice elbow through Adam's hands, connecting with Adam's forehead.#T2##SUB#
Matsuda is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
The fighters are battling for position here. Adam manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Adam is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Adam bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Matsuda's guard. #REVB#
Adam looking to sit in guard and control but Matsuda gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR##T3#
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Adam is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Adam is keeping the position.
Matsuda stopping the sweep attempt from Adam.
Matsuda is in close to Adam's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Adam keeping full guard, as Matsuda tries to pass.
Matsuda postures up and lands a big shot to Adam's brow.
Matsuda postures up in Adam's guard and throws a big left but Adam blocks it.
Matsuda cracks Adam with a solid left hand.#T4#
Matsuda trying to control but Adam is working from the bottom.
Adam looking to control but Matsuda passes into half guard. #SUB#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura but Adam is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Matsuda to get the leverage.
Matsuda seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense. #SUB#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Adam has managed to free his arm - good work.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Adam taking some punishment here, with Matsuda in his half guard.
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 Tanaka Matsuda will probably get the nod.
That's time! Matsuda's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Adam throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Matsuda sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Matsuda takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Matsuda moves forwards but Adam connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Matsuda throws a poor cross that misses
and Adam counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Adam throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Matsuda blocks a jab.
Matsuda is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Adam throws a shot from downtown. Matsuda moves away and avoids it.
Adam fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Adam keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
A little jabbing left from Adam on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Matsuda digs a good body shot into Adam's ribs.
Matsuda takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.#T1#
Adam drops his hands momentarily and Matsuda takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Matsuda connects with a body shot.
Matsuda tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Adam swivels and escapes.
Adam throws a poor cross that misses #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Adam's guard.
Our spies down at at GWad's Playpen inform us that Adam has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?#SUB2#
Adam is active off his back here, looking for submissions. #SUB#
Matsuda has gone for a leg lock! Adam slips out almost immediately though and dives into Matsuda's guard.#REVB##SUB#
Adam sitting in guard doing not very much at all here. Matsuda doesn't need a second invitation though! He's locked up a guillotine and he's squeezing tight! That is tiiiiiiiiight! Adam paying the price for stalling here - he's pushing hard on the arm trying to free himself but it's no use! He's tapped! WOW, quick submission from Matsuda - great work!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:55 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Tanaka Matsuda!
A relieved looking Tanaka Matsuda 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: C270: Tosen vs Payer IV     
Date:   Jan 14, 2024
#R1#
White scores with a nice strike.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Nice defenses there by White.
White fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
White throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
White fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
White swings and misses with a hook to the body.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that White 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.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but White moves away.
White throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Matsuda sees it coming and avoids it easily.#TD2#
White shoots in and gets a takedown into Matsuda's guard.#SUB#
Matsuda working for a triangle but White defends it easily. #SUB2#
White drops back for a leg but he's not going to get it - he lets go and Matsuda dives on top into guard.#REVR#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.#SUB2#
White throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #T1##SUB#
Matsuda thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
White looking for a sweep. Not yet White, not yet. #SUB2#
White has his foot on Matsuda's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Matsuda works his way back into a safe position though.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
White pulls Matsuda in close to prevent any damage.
Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda scoring with punches to the head and body.
White 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.
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but White is retaining full guard.
White looking to control.
Matsuda lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Matsuda keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of White's head.#T2#
Matsuda scoring with punches to the head and body.
White trying to control the position.
White pulls Matsuda in close to prevent any damage.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
White is looking to cinch up a triangle. Matsuda throws the leg off to one side though and gets in tight to White's body to avoid the submission. White has instead reached around Matsuda's neck and now has a guillotine! Oh, this is biiiig trouble! White arches his back and squeezes and forces the tap from his hapless opponent.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:34 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Thor White!
Thor White thanked the fans post fight for their support.

 

Event: C266: Nakagawa vs Machado II     
Date:   Jan 07, 2024
#R1#
Matsuda throws a hook but Cranio blocks it.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Cranio throws a hook but Matsuda blocks it.
A big left from Matsuda misses.
Cranio falls off balance throwing a combination #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Matsuda.
Cranio is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Cranio keeping full guard, as Matsuda tries to pass.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Cranio is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Cranio's head.
Matsuda missing there with some ground and pound from the guard. #T1#
Matsuda connects with a couple of short punches.
Matsuda 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.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cranio looking to control.
Matsuda postures up and lands a big shot to Cranio's brow.
Cranio utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Cranio looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Cranio keeps moving.
Matsuda is looking to work some ground and pound but Cranio has wrist control.
Cranio looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T2#
Cranio controls Matsuda momentarily but Matsuda frees himself.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Matsuda stopping the sweep attempt from Cranio.
Cranio working a defensive guard here. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Quebra Cranio is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Cranio looks to throw the jab but Matsuda is out of range.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Cranio steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Good shot there by Cranio.
Cranio works the jab nicely.
Cranio jabs at Matsuda's body.#TD#
Matsuda shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Cranio controlling the position for now.#T3##SUB#
Matsuda is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Cranio doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Matsuda.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda performing his best blanket impression for a moment.
Cranio gets full guard.#T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Cranio looking to hit a scissor sweep but Matsuda is one step ahead there.
Matsuda working some strikes from top position.
Matsuda is working Cranio over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Matsuda looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cranio controls Matsuda momentarily but Matsuda frees himself.
Matsuda lands a couple of elbows.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2##TD#
Matsuda shoots in and gets a takedown into Cranio's guard.
Matsuda is in close to Cranio's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Matsuda looking to pass the guard.
Matsuda working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Cranio seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
Cranio wants to sweep but no luck.
Matsuda chips away with some ground and pound.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Cranio 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.#T1#
Matsuda advances position into side control!
The ground and pound from Matsuda seems to be hitting the mat more than his opponent.
Matsuda works to advance to full mount. Cranio defends for a few seconds but eventually he succumbs.
Cranio tries to lock up and control but Matsuda gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Matsuda with good strikes from the mount here!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Cranio can do to turn this around?
Matsuda looking to control but Cranio is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Cranio regains half guard.#T2#
Cranio trying to control from the bottom.
Matsuda prevents Cranio from improving his position.
Cranio wants to control but Matsuda is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Cranio is looking for a sweep. Matsuda is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Matsuda throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Matsuda is looking for the mount but instead finds himself back in full guard.
Cranio is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Matsuda looking to pass the guard. #T3#
Cranio has Matsuda pulled in close to control his posture.
Matsuda loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Matsuda trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Matsuda is working Cranio over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Cranio tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Matsuda postures up in Cranio's guard and throws a big left but Cranio blocks it.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.
Matsuda works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Cranio keeps control of the position for the meantime. #T4#
Matsuda looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Matsuda lands strikes from half guard.
Cranio is concentrating on defense, preventing Matsuda from advancing position.
Matsuda passes to side control.
Cranio on the wrong end of some ground and pound.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cranio is not in a great position here, taking some shots. #SUB#
Matsuda is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Cranio is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now. #SUB#
Matsuda wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Cranio, who protects the arm well.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!#R3#
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Cranio.
Matsuda is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Nice uppercut lands for Matsuda. That snapped Cranio's head back.
The fighters circling - Matsuda throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Matsuda takes a swing at Cranio's ribcage but misses.
Matsuda changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Cranio tries to avoid it but Matsuda manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Cranio to the ground. Cranio escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Matsuda gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Cranio.
Nice jab there from Cranio. #CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Cranio connects with a body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cranio throws a shot from downtown. Matsuda moves away and avoids it.
A little feinted left hand from Matsuda on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Cranio moves away and avoids it.
Cranio lands three nice shots there - that looked like it hurt! #TD#
Matsuda throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Cranio was covering up waiting for the punch and Matsuda finishes the takedown easily into guard. #T1#
Cranio controlling the position.
Matsuda trying to control but Cranio is working from the bottom.
Matsuda stands and throws Cranio's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Matsuda wants to take a breather but Cranio manages to regain guard - a lesson learnt for Matsuda.
Matsuda stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Cranio swivels though and keeps the full guard. #T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Cranio avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Matsuda looking to pass the guard.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Cranio is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cranio trying to control the position. #T3#
Matsuda with a flurry of punches that miss.
Cranio has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Cranio throws out a loose jab but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
Cranio scores with a shot to the body.
Matsuda drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Cranio throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
An attempted straight right counter from Matsuda misses the target.
Cranio tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Cranio.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Cranio sprawls and moves away.#T4#
Matsuda misses with a right hand
and Cranio counters with a stiff right hand.
Cranio misses with a body shot.
Cranio misses with a body shot.
Matsuda tries for a takedown but Cranio sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Cranio misses with a telegraphed body shot #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Cranio desperately trying to maintain half guard.
Matsuda trying to control the action but Cranio is working from the bottom.
Tanaka Matsuda is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
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!#SUB#
Matsuda is working for a kimura here but Cranio manages to reverse the position and he's now in Matsuda's guard.

And that's the end of the fight!
Quebra Cranio comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Matsuda 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 Shigeki Fujiwara scores the fight 29:28
Judge Shirou Masuda scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

Tanaka Matsuda thanked the fans post fight for their support.

 

Event: C262: Albatross vs Femme II     
Date:   Dec 24, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda looks to land a right hand but Obaminator moved out of range.#TD#
Matsuda is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Obaminator's half guard.#SUB#
Matsuda is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Obaminator sees it coming and defends easily.
Matsuda is nestled in close to Obaminator, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Obaminator wants to get back to full guard.
Matsuda takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.#SUB#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura but Obaminator is defending well.
Matsuda prevents Obaminator from improving his position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#T1##SUB2#
Obaminator looking for submissions off his back.
Obaminator is looking to improve his position.
Matsuda not landing any meaningful shots this time.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Obaminator is defending against the submission attempts here by Matsuda.
Matsuda wants to lay and pray for a moment but Obaminator keeps working.
Matsuda is nestled in close to Obaminator, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.#T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.#SUB2#
Obaminator looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Obaminator is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Matsuda scores with a couple of nice shots.
Obaminator on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Matsuda trying to control from half guard but Obaminator is working away.
Obaminator has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Matsuda is working away from the top position though.
Obaminator regains full guard. Nicely done.
Obaminator keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully. #T3#
Obaminator keeping full guard, as Matsuda tries to pass.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Obaminator keeps moving.
Matsuda scoring with punches to the head and body.
Matsuda trying to control but Obaminator is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Obaminator looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Matsuda passes into side control.
Obaminator gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard. #T4#
Matsuda seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Matsuda scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Obaminator has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Matsuda is working away from the top position though.
Obaminator won't allow Matsuda to pass to mount.
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes.
Obaminator trying to control here.
Obaminator tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Obaminator trying to hold on to Matsuda's head to control him but Matsuda postures up.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Obaminator misses with an uppercut #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown into half guard. #SUB#
Matsuda wants to work for an arm triangle but Obaminator is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Obaminator is positioning himself well to prevent Matsuda advancing to mount. #SUB2#
Matsuda throws a strike but Obaminator manages to get a kimura sweep and he's found himself on top with the kimura half locked in! This would be a real turnaround! He's torquing it... Will Matsuda tap??? YES! He's tapped! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:37 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Barack Obaminator!
Barack Obaminator seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: C254: Obaminator vs Machado II     
Date:   Dec 03, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Nice body punch from Matsuda.
Nakagawa doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Matsuda looks to land a left hand but Nakagawa moved out of range nicely.
Matsuda thows a left - swing and a miss!
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
As Matsuda tries to get set, Nakagawa tries to push him back and clinch up but Matsuda manages to avoid the attempt.
Nakagawa keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Nakagawa sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Nakagawa tries to counter with a takedown but Matsuda is quick to defend against it.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nakagawa works the jab nicely.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Nakagawa looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Nakagawa moves out of range as Matsuda strikes.
Nakagawa wants to clinch.#T1#
Nakagawa uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.#CL#
Nakagawa moves into the clinch successfully.
A left hand lands to the body for Nakagawa.
Nakagawa misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Matsuda taking a breather.
A frustrated look appears on Matsuda's face as he tries to break the clinch.
Nakagawa working aggressively here.
Nakagawa lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Nakagawa makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Nakagawa tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A frustrated look appears on Matsuda's face as he tries to break the clinch.
Nakagawa lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Nakagawa misses with the head strike. #BC2#
Matsuda breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Matsuda swings away with a body shot that misses #TD#
and Nakagawa counters with a nice double leg into side control. Matsuda won't be happy with that. #T2#
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matsuda sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.#SUB2#
Matsuda is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Nakagawa pulls his head out easily.
Ground and pound from Nakagawa.
Nakagawa throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Nakagawa not landing any meaningful shots this time. #SUB#
Nakagawa is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg. #SUB#
Nakagawa is looking for a kimura but Matsuda is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Nakagawa to get the leverage.
Matsuda wants to get back to full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T3#
Matsuda trying to control here.
Nakagawa wants to lay and pray for a moment but Matsuda keeps working. #SUB2#
Matsuda looking for submissions off his back.
Matsuda gets full guard.
Nakagawa tries to free his leg and advance position but Matsuda is retaining full guard.
Nakagawa trying to control the position from guard on top but Matsuda is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Matsuda keeping full guard, as Nakagawa tries to pass. #T4#
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.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Matsuda controls Nakagawa momentarily but Nakagawa frees himself. #SUB#
Nakagawa drops back looking for a leg! Matsuda is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Matsuda manages to kick Nakagawa off! Nakagawa jumps back into Matsuda's guard. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Nakagawa fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.
Matsuda tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Matsuda misses with a straight right. #TD2#
Matsuda gets a double leg takedown into Nakagawa's guard.
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but Nakagawa is retaining full guard.
Nakagawa wants to sweep but no luck. #SUB#
Nakagawa has his foot on Matsuda's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Matsuda works his way back into a safe position though.
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 Shinnosuke Nakagawa will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Matsuda scores with a shot to the body.
Nakagawa throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matsuda changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Nakagawa misses with a hook.
Matsuda lands a nice shot to the body.
Matsuda works Nakagawa's body with a nice hook.
Nice sprawl there from Nakagawa as Matsuda shoots in.#TD2#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Matsuda.
Matsuda controlling the position from side mount. #SUB2#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Nakagawa has escaped the position, nice work there. #T1#
Matsuda cracks Nakagawa with a big right hand but Nakagawa just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
Nakagawa is trying to get back to half guard.
Nakagawa takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Nakagawa is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Matsuda's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
The fighters are battling for position here. Nakagawa manages to regain full guard. Nice work. #SUB#
Nakagawa is active off his back here, looking for submissions. #T2#
Matsuda cracks Nakagawa with a solid left hand.
Matsuda trying to control but Nakagawa is working from the bottom.
Nakagawa working a defensive guard here.
Matsuda throws a big right hand that misses. #SUB#
Nakagawa has his foot on Matsuda's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Matsuda works his way back into a safe position though.
Nakagawa keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Nakagawa is keeping the position for now.
Matsuda throwing strikes from guard but Nakagawa blocks nicely. #T3#
Matsuda is working Nakagawa over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Nakagawa is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Nakagawa working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Matsuda. #SUB#
Nakagawa looking for a guillotine here but Matsuda defends easily. #SUB#
Nakagawa is looking for a triangle but Matsuda pushes his legs off easily. #T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Matsuda stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Nakagawa swivels though and keeps the full guard. #SUB#
Nakagawa throws his legs up looking for a submission but Matsuda uses it to pass to side control.
Nakagawa is looking to regain half guard here but Matsuda keeps moving and retains side control.
Tanaka Matsuda has got the better of the ground game so far.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! Let's get this one finished - here comes the final round!#R3#
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Nakagawa moves away.
Nakagawa half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Matsuda is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Nakagawa rather than just go for the knockout.
Matsuda lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Matsuda moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
A slow jab from Matsuda misses its intended target.
The fighters circling - Matsuda throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Nakagawa is trying to close the distance and clinch up, after that failed offence from Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut. Nakagawa saw that one coming.
Nakagawa attempts a counter takedown but Matsuda avoids it well and moves away.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#TD#
Nakagawa shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Matsuda is trying to defend but Nakagawa finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Matsuda trying to control here. #T1#
Matsuda is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #SUB2#
Matsuda looking for a kimura from the bottom but Nakagawa passes into side control!
Matsuda trying to remain calm as Nakagawa controls from the top position.
Matsuda tries to bench press Nakagawa off him but Nakagawa keeps the position.
Matsuda is not content to let Nakagawa control the position. #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.
Nakagawa scores with a couple of short elbows.
Matsuda wants to control but Nakagawa postures up.
Matsuda tries to improve position but can't.
Matsuda is trying to control Nakagawa's posture but Nakagawa avoids it.
Nakagawa lands an elbow.
Matsuda regains half guard.
Matsuda slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.#T3#
Nakagawa is in close to Matsuda's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Nakagawa is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Nakagawa wants to control from the top but Matsuda keeps moving. #SUB2#
Matsuda had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Nakagawa defends it easily.
Nakagawa landing some decent shots from guard. #T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Nakagawa works over Matsuda with some ground and pound from guard.#SUB2#
Matsuda throws his legs up looking to secure a triangle. Oh, that looks pretty tight, I gotta say! Nakagawa escapes and throws Matsuda's legs to the side, diving into side control! #SUB#
Nakagawa tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Matsuda tries to improve position but can't.

And that's the end of the fight!
Shinnosuke Nakagawa showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Nakagawa 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 Yukihiro Yamamoto scores the fight 29:28
Judge Yuuki Gou scores the fight 29:28
Judge Hirohito Nitta scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Shinnosuke Nakagawa!

Shinnosuke Nakagawa seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: C253: Lehto vs Blank     
Date:   Nov 26, 2023
#R1#
Adam uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Adam fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.#TD#
Adam gets caught napping as Matsuda dives in and scores a takedown. Adam manages to retain guard.
Matsuda throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Adam works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Adam holds on and takes a little breather. #SUB2#
Adam looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Adam trying to keep a closed guard but Matsuda is proving a slippery customer.
Our spies down at at GWad's Playpen inform us that Adam has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Adam is keeping the position.
Matsuda chips away with some ground and pound.#T1##SUB2#
Adam throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Adam trying to control the position.
Adam keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry. #SUB2#
Matsuda got a little sloppy there for a moment and Adam has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Matsuda has managed to get both his arms back between Adam's legs - danger averted.#SUB2#
Adam working for a triangle but Matsuda defends it easily.
Adam pulls Matsuda in close to prevent any damage. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Matsuda landing some decent shots from guard.
Adam not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Adam keeps moving.
Matsuda postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Matsuda slips nicely into half guard.#SUB2#
Adam looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#T3#
Nice strikes from Matsuda there.
Adam works his way to full guard. Good work.#SUB2#
Adam is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Matsuda connects with a couple of short punches.
Adam keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Adam not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing.
Matsuda postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect. #T4#
Matsuda working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Adam's head.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Adam is keeping the position.
Adam looking to control.
Adam pulls Matsuda in close to his closed guard and prevents Matsuda from doing any damage or advancing position.
Adam keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters, thinking about a standup.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Adam wants to control but instead he gets his guard passed and Matsuda is now in half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Nice defenses there by Matsuda.
Matsuda will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt - Adam sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Matsuda missing with a left hand there. Adam was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one. #TD#
Matsuda darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.#SUB#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura but Adam is defending well.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Adam trying to control from the bottom. #SUB2#
Adam looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#T1#
Adam moves into full guard.
Matsuda is working Adam over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Matsuda pushes down on Adam's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Adam blocking the ground and pound attempt from Matsuda.
Matsuda seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Adam does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #SUB#
Matsuda is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Matsuda working Adam over with strikes.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Adam can do to turn this around?#T2#
Matsuda trying to control the action but Adam is working from the bottom.
Adam keeping control of the leg, stopping his opponent passing to mount.
Matsuda is thwarting Adam's attempts to control the position.
Matsuda prevents Adam from improving his position.
Ground and pound from Matsuda. #T3#
Matsuda prevents Adam from improving his position.
Adam is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
Adam is trying to control but can't.
Matsuda is looking to take a break and control but Adam is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Matsuda throws a strike but Adam avoids it easily and moves to full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Adam keeps moving.
Adam trying to control the position. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.#T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
A left lands for Adam.
Matsuda slips under a jab.
Principo Adam seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Adam lands a leg kick that knocks Matsuda off balance momentarily.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut
and Adam counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Matsuda gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Adam cracks Matsuda with a good jab.
Adam leaves Matsuda with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Adam fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.
Adam throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matsuda throwing a counter right hand but Adam manages to avoid it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Principo Adam will probably get the nod - 10:9.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. This is the final round!#R3#
A punch combination from Adam misses.
Adam shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Matsuda defends it nicely.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Adam moves away.
Nice straight punches there by Adam. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Adam.
Adam uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
Adam misses the shot to the body.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Adam throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Matsuda sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Adam takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Adam throws out a loose jab but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
Adam darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Adam misses with a left hand
and Matsuda counters with a left to the body. #T1#
Adam looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.
Sloppy strikes from Adam. Those never looked like landing.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.#TD#
Adam tries to sprawl but Matsuda drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Adam moves into full guard.
Matsuda is in close to Adam's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Matsuda trying to control but Adam is working from the bottom.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda trying to control but Adam is working from the bottom. #T2#
Adam is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Adam trying to keep a closed guard but Matsuda is proving a slippery customer. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Adam lands a really nice looking cross but Matsuda seems unphased.
Adam lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Matsuda bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Adam scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Matsuda doesn't seem bothered though. #T3#
Adam fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.
Matsuda was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Nice defenses there by Matsuda.
A jab from Adam misses.
Principo Adam seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Adam uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.#TD#
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Adam is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Adam is trying to control the position but Matsuda postures up.
Adam utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses. #T4#
Matsuda advances to half guard.
Matsuda works his way into side control.
Adam is working to avoid the ground and pound but Matsuda connects with a decent elbow.
Matsuda working away.
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes.
Matsuda is looking to take a break and control but Adam is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Adam is trying to control Matsuda's posture but Matsuda avoids it.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Matsuda 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 Luis Engracia scores the fight 29:28
Judge Edson Gomes scores the fight 29:28
Judge Mauricio Rocha scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

During a confident post fight interview, Tanaka Matsuda thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

 

Event: C247: Myers vs Ferkingstad II     
Date:   Nov 05, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda thuds his right hand into Machado's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Matsuda tests Machado's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Machado throws a jab but it's blocked by Matsuda.
A telegraphed right hand from Machado misses the target.
Matsuda has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Machado.
Machado throws a lazy right hand but Matsuda sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Matsuda walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Machado misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
Machado throws out a powerful jab.
Matsuda has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Gunner's School of Combat in the buildup to the fight.
Machado throws a low kick, looking for Matsuda's leg but Matsuda calmly moves out of range.
A jab from Machado misses.
Matsuda pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Good leg kick by Machado.
Machado thumps Matsuda with a low kick.
A looping hook to the body misses from Machado. Matsuda does a little dance to reset his feet.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Machado with a jab.
Machado looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Machado throws a half hearted mid kick.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.#T1#
Machado misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
Matsuda avoids the body shot from Machado.
Machado stuns Matsuda with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Machado buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Machado jabbing away but nothing is landing.
A swing and a miss from Machado.
Machado lands a lovely overhand right.
Machado throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
Machado scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Matsuda doesn't seem bothered though.
Nice sprawl there from Machado as Matsuda shoots in.
Machado misses the jab.
Matsuda tests Machado's chin there with a solid looking shot.
A leg kick checked by Matsuda.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
Machado throws a leg kick that misses.
Jab from Matsuda.#T2#
A swing and a miss from Machado.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Machado chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Machado pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Matsuda bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Matsuda swings for the body but Machado moves out of range.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Machado feints and then cracks Matsuda's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Matsuda down.
Machado scores with a leg kick.
Matsuda moves out of range as Machado strikes.
Machado keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Machado fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
Machado misses with a low kick.
Matsuda scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Machado misses the shot to the body.
A swing and a miss from Matsuda.
A little jabbing left from Machado on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.#T3#
A decent looking cross lands there for Machado.
Machado wants to land a leg kick but Matsuda is out of range.
Matsuda uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Machado.
Matsuda on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Matsuda takes a swing at Machado's ribcage but misses.
Machado is looking to score with low kicks.
Machado slips under a jab from Matsuda.
Machado wants to slow Matsuda down by chopping away at his legs.
Machado uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Machado throws a nice outside leg kick.
Matsuda checks a leg kick.
A solid leg kick lands there for Machado.
A jab from Machado misses.
Machado lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Wanderson Machado seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nice shot lands for Machado.
Machado throws a half hearted mid kick.#T4#
Machado tries a low kick but Matsuda avoids it.
Matsuda uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Machado.
Machado lands a body shot.
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!
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Matsuda checks a low kick from Machado.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Machado sprawls and moves away.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Machado.
Matsuda swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Machado.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
Machado misses with a looping left.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Machado avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Good exchange - Machado coming out on top.
Machado with a nice calf kick.
Matsuda jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Machado lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
A leg kick checked by Matsuda.
Matsuda is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Machado swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Wanderson Machado dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Matsuda blocks a leg kick.
Matsuda steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Machado.
Machado misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
Machado tries to move into range but Matsuda moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Machado throws a leg kick but Matsuda sees it coming and checks it nicely.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Machado avoids it well and moves away.
Machado throws a low kick, looking for Matsuda's leg but Matsuda calmly moves out of range.
Machado fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Matsuda on the side of the head.
Machado takes a swing at Matsuda's ribcage but misses.
Machado slips under a jab from Matsuda.
Machado bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Matsuda's head backwards.
Machado stuffs the takedown attempt from Matsuda. Matsuda gets slowly back to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Machado fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Matsuda is out of range.
This entire fight has taken place on the feet so far and you wonder whether Matsuda might be better served trying to take this one to the ground because he's losing the standup battle so far.
Machado throws a chopping leg kick but Matsuda manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Matsuda slips under a jab from Machado.
Machado swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Machado scores with a hook.#T1#
Machado throws the left hand but Matsuda avoids the punch easily.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Machado avoids it well and moves away.
Machado missing with a left hand there. Matsuda was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Machado scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Machado swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Machado just misses with a punch to the body.
Machado pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Machado is quick to defend against it.
Matsuda displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Machado throws out the jab.
Matsuda was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
A swing and a miss from Machado.
Matsuda throws a jab but it's blocked by Machado.
Wanderson Machado is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Machado stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Machado wants it to stay on the feet.
It seemed like Machado was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Matsuda scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Machado throws a lazy right hand but Matsuda sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Machado moves out of range.
Machado throws a jab when Matsuda was well out of range.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Machado sprawls and moves away.#T2#
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Matsuda scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Machado scores with a leg kick.
Matsuda jabs at Machado's body.
Machado has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matsuda slips a jab from Machado.
Matsuda ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Machado throws a nice inside leg kick.
Machado feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Matsudas jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Machado lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Machado keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Matsuda.
Matsuda checks a leg kick.
Matsuda has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Machado.
Wanderson Machado seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Machado throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Matsuda slips a jab from Machado.
Machado scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Matsuda lands with a right hand.
Matsuda is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.#T3#
Machado lands a lovely overhand right.
Machado throws a leg kick which misses Matsuda's front leg but catches the back leg as Matsuda tries to avoid it. #TD#
Machado gets caught napping as Matsuda dives in and scores a takedown. Machado manages to retain guard.
Matsuda trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Machado seems keen to control Matsuda's posture.
Matsuda missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Machado keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Machado avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
Matsuda will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.#T4#
Machado keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Machado avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Matsuda shoots for a takedown but Machado saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Machado misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Matsuda looks for a takedown but Machado sprawls well.
Machado scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Machado uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Machado connects with a solid leg kick.
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!
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
Machado lands a nice looking body shot.
Machado misses with a looping right.
Machado scores with a jab.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Wanderson Machado showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Matsuda's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3#
Matsuda blocks a low kick nicely.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Machado with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Machado.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown but Machado shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Machado.
Machado misses with an uppercut. Matsuda saw that one coming.
Machado takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Machado throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Machado is quick to defend against it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Machado throws out a powerful jab.
Machado looks for the body kick but Matsuda saw that one coming.
Machado tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Machado.
Machado looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.#T1#
Matsuda is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Machado.
Machado fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Matsuda.
Matsuda blocks a low kick nicely.
Machado tries a low kick but Matsuda avoids it.
Machado tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Machado does a little dance to reset his feet.
Machado let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Matsuda checks a leg kick nicely.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Machado manages to avoid it.
Machado tries a low kick but Matsuda avoids it.
Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Machado.
Matsuda slips under a jab from Machado.
Machado throws a shot from downtown. Matsuda moves away and avoids it.
Machado misses the jab.
A slow jab from Machado misses its intended target.
Machado buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick. #T2#
Machado with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Matsuda fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Machado scores with a shot to the body.
Machado keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda shoots for a takedown but Machado saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Matsuda throws a looping overhand right but Machado ducks down to avoid it.
Machado follows through with a counter body kick but it doesn't land.
Matsuda moves out of range as Machado strikes.
Machado misses with a looping left.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Machado throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Machado throws out a loose jab but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
A telegraphed right hand from Matsuda misses the target.
Matsuda throws a looping overhand right but Machado ducks down to avoid it.
It seemed like Machado was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Matsuda throws out a loose jab but Machado uses good head movement to avoid it.
Matsuda punishes Machado's body with a nice straight punch.
Machado throws a leg kick which misses Matsuda's front leg but catches the back leg as Matsuda tries to avoid it. #T3#
Machado walks into a left hand.
Machado fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Matsuda checks it well.
Machado wants to slow Matsuda down by chopping away at his legs.
Machado wants to slow Matsuda down by chopping away at his legs.
Nice defenses there by Machado.
Matsuda moves out of range as Machado strikes.
A jab from Machado misses.
Machado thumps Matsuda with a low kick.
Matsuda has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Machado.
Tanaka Matsuda has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#TD#
Matsuda drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Matsuda 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#
Matsuda tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Matsuda has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Matsuda in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time. #T4#
Matsuda misses with a strike but at least he's keeping busy, looking to cause some damage - that will still help him when it comes to the judges scorecards.
An elbow from Matsuda crashes against the mat.
Matsuda laying and praying for a moment but Machado takes advantage and regains half guard.
Matsuda is keen to just control but Machado is a slippery customer.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Machado is defending against the submission attempts here by Matsuda.
Matsuda is trying to control. Machado wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.

And that's the end of the fight!
Wanderson Machado comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Machado winning every round here. Surely the decision will go his way and he'll pick up a well deserved decision victory. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Paulo Santos scores the fight 27:30
Judge Seu Braga scores the fight 27:30
Judge Mauricio Rocha scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Wanderson Machado!

Our winner, Wanderson Machado, 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: C241: Albatross vs Gebhardt     
Date:   Oct 22, 2023
#R1#
Yarborough lands with an uppercut that bounces Matsuda off the cage and back into range.
Matsuda defending well as Yarborough loads up on a big left hand.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Yarborough connects with a high kick. #CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Yarborough uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Matsuda swings for the body but Yarborough moves out of range.
Yarborough throws a big shot that misses.
Yarborough avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Yarborough throws a hook but Matsuda blocks it.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Yarborough moves away.
Matsuda throws a lazy right hand but Yarborough sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Yarborough gets off balance looking for a body kick#TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Yarborough's guard.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Yarborough is keeping the position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda advances position into side control!
Yarborough is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Matsuda has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Yarborough is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.#SUB#
Matsuda is trying to get an arm triangle but Yarborough is defending well. #T1#
Yarborough wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!
Matsuda grinds an elbow into Yarborough's temple.
Yarborough is pushing Matsuda's head away, looking to escape. Matsuda manages to hold on to the position though.#SUB#
Matsuda wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Yarborough, who protects the arm well. #ES2#
Yarborough sneaks out the side door and pushes Matsuda away - he's back to his feet. The crowd show their appreciation for the escape.
Matsuda scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Yarborough moves away.
James Yarborough seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Yarborough takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Matsuda pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Matsuda works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Matsuda connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Yarborough uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Matsuda.
Yarborough scores with the left hand. Matsuda knows he should have avoided that one. #T2#
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Yarborough's jab looks to have found its range, popping Matsuda under the eye.
Matsuda avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Yarborough.
Yarborough walks into a left hand. #CL2#
Yarborough instigates a clinch.
Yarborough throws a head punch that misses.
Stalling in the clinch from Matsuda.
Yarborough has a couple of punches blocked by Matsuda.
Matsuda is trying to break the clinch but Yarborough has him pressed against the cage.
Yarborough lands a left hand.
Matsuda tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Matsuda tries to throw a body punch but Yarborough avoids it by throwing Matsuda back against the cage.
Matsuda fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Yarborough stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Matsuda is trying to pull guard but being pressed up against the cage enables Yarborough to keep the fight standing.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Yarborough working aggressively here.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Yarborough.
Matsuda misses with some punches.
A nice left hand lands by Yarborough. #T3#
Yarborough struggles to land a body shot inside as Matsuda controls his hands.
Matsuda doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Yarborough lands a right hand.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Matsuda.
Matsuda tries to pull guard but Yarborough forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Matsuda tries a body shot but Yarborough blocks it.
Matsuda tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Yarborough just stands there and leans against the cage.
Yarborough swings wildly with an uppercut but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
Yarborough misses with a shot to the kidneys. #BC2#
Yarborough breaks from the clinch.
Matsuda dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda blocks a head kick by Yarborough. #CL2#
Yarborough closes the distance and clinches.
Yarborough lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Yarborough digs a right hand into Matsuda's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Matsuda's gas tank.
Yarborough lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Matsuda tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it. #T4#
Yarborough lands a left hand that snaps the head of Matsuda backwards.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#BC2#
Yarborough manages to break the clinch.
Matsuda jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Yarborough moves into range and connects with a jab.
Matsuda defending well as Yarborough loads up on a big left hand.
Yarborough throws out a leg kick but Matsuda moves out of range and Yarborough only half commits.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Yarborough sprawls and moves away.
Yarborough looks for the body kick but Matsuda saw that one coming.
Matsuda takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Yarborough avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
That kick from Yarborough tenderised Matsuda's leg. Matsuda is trying to keep his angry face on.
Yarborough throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range.
It looked like Matsuda wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.#CL2#
Yarborough clinches up with Matsuda and pushes him back against the cage.
Yarborough makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Yarborough working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Matsuda jumps guard but Yarborough turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing. #BC2#
Yarborough breaks the clinch.
Yarborough misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.#CL2#
Yarborough forces Matsuda back against the cage and clinches.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

James Yarborough dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Matsuda moves out of range as Yarborough throws a body kick.
James Yarborough seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Matsuda has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Yarborough.
Yarborough tries to clinch but Matsuda moves away
and Matsuda counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Yarborough throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
Matsuda moves forwards but Yarborough connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Matsuda lands with a right hand.
Yarborough has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Yarborough as he avoids it easily.
Yarborough flicks out a counter leg kick but Matsuda steps away.
Yarborough looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.
Yarborough throws a nice inside leg kick.
A jab from Yarborough does it's job there.
An inside leg kick lands from Yarborough.
Yarborough tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Yarborough.
Matsuda takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Yarborough lands with a cross.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Yarborough is looking to clinch but Matsuda is avoiding it.
Yarborough moves out of range of the strikes.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Yarborough! But no joy.
Matsuda checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.#T1#
Yarborough throws a low kick but Matsuda moves out of range easily.
Yarborough stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Yarborough wants it to stay on the feet.
Yarborough throws a nice outside leg kick.
Yarborough ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
The fight stays on the outside here - Yarborough looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Yarborough tries a low kick but Matsuda avoids it.
Matsuda 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.
Yarborough throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Yarborough throws a head kick but Matsuda moves out of range.
Yarborough throws a body kick that misses.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Yarborough sprawls and moves away.
Yarborough fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.
The fighters circling - Yarborough throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Yarborough is quick to defend against it.
A low kick from Yarborough misses #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Matsuda.
Matsuda lands a couple of elbows.
Matsuda is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Yarborough keeps moving. #T2#
Matsuda prevents Yarborough from getting back to his feet.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Yarborough is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#ES2#
Yarborough uses the cage to get back to his feet.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
James Yarborough is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Yarborough throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
Yarborough throws a nice inside leg kick.
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Yarborough misses with a straight left.
Matsuda on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Yarborough. Yarborough obviously looking to wear him down.
Yarborough throws a leg kick #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a single leg into guard. Yarborough didn't expect that.
Yarborough is looking to stand up but Matsuda isn't so interested in that idea.
Matsuda 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.#T3##ES2#
The fighters are working up against the cage. Yarborough manages to wriggle his way back to his feet, so the fighters are now clinched against the cage.#BC#
Matsuda pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Yarborough lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Nice shot by Matsuda.
Yarborough lands with a straight right. Matsuda didn't see that one coming.
Yarborough throws a lazy right hand but Matsuda sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Matsuda uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Yarborough.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Yarborough avoids it well and moves away.
Good exchange - Yarborough coming out on top.
Yarborough pivots, looking for a leg kick but Matsuda is out of range and Yarborough settles back down.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
Yarborough looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Yarborough with a nice calf kick.
Yarborough swings widly with a right hand #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown. Yarborough fights it but they end up in guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Yarborough is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Matsuda is controlling him. #T4#
Matsuda postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Matsuda is standing up over Yarborough. Yarborough looks to escape but Matsuda dives into side control.
Yarborough is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
Matsuda cracks Yarborough with a big elbow. #ES2#
Yarborough throws his opponent off and manages to get back to his feet! Nicely done!
Yarborough tries to land a leg kick but Matsuda saw it coming and moves away.
Matsuda takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Yarborough scores with a leg kick.
Matsuda is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
The sound of bone on bone echoes around the arena as Matsuda checks a leg kick. #CL2#
Yarborough gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.#TD#
Matsuda manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back.
Yarborough tries to stand but Matsuda is controlling from the bottom.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

James Yarborough showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda'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.#R3#
Yarborough ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Matsuda moves away.
Yarborough with a nice cross.
Yarborough misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
A counter left hand to the body from Matsuda misses its target.
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Yarborough.
Nice shot by Yarborough.
Yarborough throws a lazy right hand but Matsuda sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Yarborough thows a leg kick but Matsuda checks it
and Matsuda counters with a stiff right hand.
Yarborough avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Yarborough is quick to defend against it.
Yarborough misses with a straight right.
Yarborough misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Yarborough.
Yarborough misses with an uppercut #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Matsuda with a nice head shot there.#ES2#
Yarborough wriggles free and stands up.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Matsuda. #T1#
Yarborough jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Yarborough is looking to chop away at Matsuda's legs.
Matsuda scores with a jab to the head.
Yarborough thumps Matsuda with a low kick.
Yarborough tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Matsuda goes for a double leg but Yarborough avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Yarborough continues to drive forward.
James Yarborough seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
Yarborough presses Matsuda against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Yarborough misses with a short punch on the inside.
A frustrated look appears on Matsuda's face as he tries to break the clinch.
Matsuda tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Yarborough smiles and moves away.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Good leg kick by Yarborough.
Yarborough misses with a straight left.
Yarborough tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Matsuda manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
Yarborough steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.#T2#
Yarborough connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Matsuda's hands.
Yarborough throws a big shot that misses.
Yarborough takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Matsuda steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Yarborough.
Matsuda throws out a powerful jab.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Yarborough fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Matsuda looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Matsuda with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Yarborough to score with a decent uppercut.
Matsuda on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Yarborough closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Yarborough misses the shot to the body.
Yarborough throws a poor cross that misses #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Matsuda. #ES2#
Yarborough manages to wriggle out and sneak his way back up to his feet, so the fighters are now clinched up against the cage.
Yarborough lands with a short head shot on the inside.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Matsuda. #TD#
Matsuda gets control of Yarborough's arms and successfully pulls guard. Matsuda will no doubt be looking for submissions off his back.#SU2#
Yarborough stands and steps away. Matsuda gets to his feet too and we're back to the striking game. #T3#
Yarborough goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
Yarborough uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Matsuda backing away here, and Yarborough unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
A big right from Yarborough misses.
Matsuda moves out of range of the body kick from Yarborough.
Yarborough cracks Matsuda with a right hand to the side of the head.
Yarborough tries to clinch up.
Matsuda bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Yarborough misses with an uppercut.
Yarborough lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.#TD#
Matsuda shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Matsuda winds up and cracks Yarborough with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Matsuda scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
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!
Yarborough is trying to stand up here but Matsuda is controlling him well. #T4##ES2#
Yarborough pushes Matsuda off and gets back to his feet.
Matsuda slips under a jab from Yarborough.
Matsuda lands a lovely overhand right.
Yarborough is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Matsuda.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Yarborough sprawls and moves away.
A low kick from Yarborough misses #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Yarborough!
Yarborough tries to escape but Matsuda is in control.
Matsuda is looking to take a break and control but Yarborough is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Yarborough wants to get back to his feet.
Matsuda trying to control the position but Yarborough is working away.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Matsuda prevents Yarborough from escaping the position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

James Yarborough really dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda'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#
Yarborough tries to clinch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Yarborough thuds his right hand into Matsuda's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Yarborough misses with a head kick.
Yarborough misses with a low kick.
Matsuda jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Matsuda slips under a jab from Yarborough.
Yarborough connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Yarborough fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Matsuda is out of range.
Matsuda dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda swats away the attempt to clinch by Yarborough.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Yarborough pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Yarborough throws a head kick that misses.
Yarborough misses with a straight right.
Yarborough takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Jab by Yarborough.#T1#
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Yarborough does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matsuda misses with a looping right.
Matsuda blocks a low kick nicely.
Yarborough misses with a low kick.
Matsuda lands a lovely overhand right.
A looping hook to the body misses from Yarborough. Matsuda does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Matsuda throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Yarborough's waist but Yarborough gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Matsuda off to one side.
Matsuda looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Matsuda uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Yarborough.
Yarborough misses with a head kick.
Yarborough misses with a right hand #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Yarborough's guard.
Matsuda trying to control but Yarborough is working from the bottom. #ES2#
Yarborough has managed to wall walk up one of the corner posts to get back to his feet. Matsuda is pushing him up against the cage, looking to control the position.
Matsuda wants to take the fight to the mat but Yarborough manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
Yarborough misses with a punch to the body. #T2#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda tries to pull guard but Yarborough holds him up against the cage and eventually Matsuda drops back down to his feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Yarborough blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Yarborough tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Yarborough keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Matsuda's efforts to push away.
Yarborough misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Matsuda fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Yarborough lands a left hand that snaps the head of Matsuda backwards. #TD#
Matsuda jumps guard.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Matsuda has a closed guard, preventing Yarborough from standing up. #SU2#
Yarborough stands up and waves to Matsuda to follow him.
An inside leg kick lands from Yarborough. #T3#
Yarborough getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Matsuda throws a jab but it's blocked by Yarborough.
Yarborough throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Yarborough throws a leg kick which misses Matsuda's front leg but catches the back leg as Matsuda tries to avoid it.
Yarborough misses with a looping left.
Yarborough throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Yarborough moves out of range.
Yarborough throws a big shot that misses.
Yarborough closes the distance but Matsuda moves to the side
and Matsuda counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Yarborough thinking. #TD#
Matsuda shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Yarborough's guard.

Yarborough uses the cage to get back to his feet.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Matsuda takes a jab right on the kisser.
A decent looking cross lands there for Yarborough.#T4#
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Yarborough defending well as Matsuda loads up on a big left hand.
Yarborough throws a wild body kick that Matsuda sees coming a mile off.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Yarborough sprawls and moves away.
Yarborough cracks Matsuda with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Yarborough throws a shot to the body.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
Yarborough appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
An inside leg kick lands from Yarborough.
Yarborough walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Yarborough tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Yarborough looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.#CL2#
Yarborough has managed to clinch.
Yarborough lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Matsuda backwards.
Matsuda is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Yarborough scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Yarborough lands a body punch in the clinch.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

James Yarborough dominated that fourth round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
That's time! Back to the action! Let's get this one finished - here comes the final round!#R5#
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Yarborough.
Yarborough keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Yarborough throws a leg kick that is checked#TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Yarborough wants to get back to his feet.#SUB#
Matsuda is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Matsuda prevents Yarborough from standing back up.
Yarborough taking some punishment here, with Matsuda in his half guard.
Yarborough scrambles, trying to get to his feet, but Matsuda manages to mount him!
Matsuda lands a big elbow.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Yarborough wants to get back to his feet.
Matsuda lands a couple of good shots and Yarborough has given up his back, trying to escape the position!
Matsuda scores with punches to the body. #T1#
Yarborough is trying to get back to his feet but Matsuda has full control of the position and if anything, Yarborough has just worked his way into a worse spot.#SUB#
Matsuda is remaining active here, looking for the choke. The more discerning members of the crowd will appreciate his efforts.
Yarborough wants to get back to his feet. #ES2#
Yarborough manages to get to his feet, escaping the difficult position.
Yarborough misses with a straight left.
Yarborough throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
Yarborough rushes in with a sloppy looking punch #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a takedown into side control.

Yarborough sneaks out the side door and pushes Matsuda away - he's back to his feet. The crowd show their appreciation for the escape.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Matsuda lands a slapping body shot. #TD#
Matsuda shoots in and bounces Yarborough off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.

Yarborough is edging up against the cage. He's using the cage to get back to his feet. Nice work there - the fighters are clinched.
Both of our modern day gladiators look out of it here - a gruelling 5 rounds of action taking it's toll on them, no doubt.#T2#
Yarborough lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Matsuda misses with some punches.
Yarborough takes a shot to the head.
A nice left hand lands by Yarborough. #BC2#
Yarborough breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Yarborough cracks Matsuda with a right hand to the side of the head.
Matsuda is trying hard to land a takedown here. Yarborough sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Yarborough lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Yarborough looks to score with a jab to the body but Matsuda is just out of range.
Yarborough connects with an inside leg kick.
Yarborough motions for Matsuda to come forward. Yarborough throws a leg kick but it misses it's target. #CL2#
Yarborough takes the fight into the clinch.
Matsuda jumps guard but Yarborough stands there with Matsuda around his waist. Matsuda gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch. #T3#
Yarborough blocks an uppercut.
Matsuda blocking some punches. #BC2#
Yarborough breaks from the clinch.
Yarborough throws a predictable looking body shot #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but Yarborough defending well.
Yarborough is trying to stand.
Yarborough is staying active underneath Matsuda, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Tanaka Matsuda has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Yarborough wants to get back to his feet.
Matsuda trying to control from half guard but Yarborough is working away.
Yarborough is looking to escape.
Matsuda not throwing his punches with enough precision this time. #T4#
Matsuda is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Yarborough is trying to stand.
Nice strikes from Matsuda there. #SUB#
Matsuda is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Yarborough wants to get back to his feet.#ES2#
Yarborough has one foot on Matsuda's thigh - he pushes off and manages to get back to his feet.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Yarborough ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Matsuda moves away.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Yarborough is quick to defend against it.
Yarborough throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Donk. Matsuda catches Yarborough right on the button with a cross.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Matsuda dives in for a single leg takedown but Yarborough sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ren Mimura scores the fight 45:50
Judge Tatsuya Matsuyama scores the fight 45:50
Judge Yuuki Gou scores the fight 45:50

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... James Yarborough!

James Yarborough is the new middleweight champion!
During a confident post fight interview, James Yarborough thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

 

Event: C235: Ji Woo vs Myers     
Date:   Sep 30, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda misses the jab.
Matsuda has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Gunner's School of Combat in the buildup to the fight.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Giovanni slips the punch.
Giovanni is clearly looking to counter with head kicks.
Matsuda is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Giovanni.
Giovanni looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Giovanni uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Giovanni! But no joy.
Giovanni uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.
Giovanni throws out a counter right but Matsuda avoids it with no problem.
Matsuda throws a shot to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda lunges at Giovanni with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Giovanni's hand.
Matsuda rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Giovanni counters with a low kick, right behind Matsuda 's knee.
Matsuda takes a swing at Giovanni's ribcage but misses. #T1#
Giovanni steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Matsuda clobbers Giovanni with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
A big right from Matsuda misses.
Matsuda throws an off balance right hand
and Giovanni counters with a straight right hand.
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Giovanni now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Matsuda rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Giovanni counters with a stiff right hand.
A cross from Matsuda lands.
Matsuda throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Giovanni sees it coming and avoids it easily.#T2#
Matsuda swings for the body but Giovanni moves out of range.
Giovanni let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Matsuda throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Giovanni sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Giovanni only half commits to the counter leg kick.
Matsuda misses with a hook to the body
and Giovanni counters with a nice uppercut.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Giovanni.
Matsuda backing away here, and Giovanni unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Giovanni blocks a jab.
Giovanni looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Matsuda tries for a takedown but Giovanni circles away easily
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Giovanni avoids the body shot from Matsuda. #T3#
Matsuda fails with a takedown attempt.
Matsuda shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Giovanni defends it nicely.
Giovanni swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Matsuda throws a hook but Giovanni blocks it.
Giovanni unleashes a big counter combination but Matsuda bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.#T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Giovanni swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Giovanni.
A little jabbing left from Giovanni on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Giovanni keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Giovanni throws out a counter right but Matsuda avoids it with no problem.
Matsuda swings for the body but Giovanni moves out of range.
Matsuda throws a jab when Giovanni was well out of range.
Giovanni throws out a counter right but Matsuda avoids it with no problem.
Matsuda swings away with a body shot that misses
and Giovanni counters with a stiff right hand.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Matsuda misses with a hook
and Giovanni counters with a thumping low kick.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Matsuda throws out a loose jab but Giovanni uses good head movement to avoid it.
Giovanni swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Giovanni can do to turn this around?
Matsuda fails with the takedown
and Giovanni counters with a head kick.
Matsuda scores with the left hand. Giovanni knows he should have avoided that one.
Giovanni displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matsuda throws out the jab.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Giovanni defending well as Matsuda loads up on a big left hand.
Giovanni feints a counter leg kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda throws a hook but Giovanni blocks it.
Matsuda takes a swing at Giovanni's ribcage but misses.
Giovanni steps in looking to counter with the mid kick but it doesn't connect.
Giovanni displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matsuda throws out the jab.
Giovanni looks like he wants to counter punch here.#T1#
Matsuda swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Giovanni swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Giovanni has time to react.
Sonny Giovanni is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Matsuda connects with a good right hand that stumbles Giovanni. Giovanni circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Giovanni unleashes a big counter combination but Matsuda bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
Matsuda works the jab nicely.
Matsuda connects with a body shot.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Giovanni let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Giovanni moves out of range of the strikes.#T2#
Matsuda throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Giovanni counters with a nice leg kick.
Giovanni staying out of range there.
Giovanni throws out a counter right but Matsuda avoids it with no problem.
Matsuda takes a swing at Giovanni's ribcage but misses.
Giovanni looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Good exchange - Matsuda coming out on top.
Matsuda throws a hook but Giovanni avoids it easily.
Giovanni looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Giovanni steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Matsuda changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Giovanni tries to avoid it but Matsuda manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Giovanni to the ground. Giovanni escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Matsuda misses with a lunging right hand
and Giovanni finishes the little exchange by landing a big kick to the body.#T3#
Matsuda throws a hook but Giovanni blocks it.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut.
Giovanni appeared to try and counter that last move with a leg kick.
The fighters circling - Matsuda throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Giovanni throws a fast counter high kick but Matsuda manages to duck under it in time.
Giovanni steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Giovanni does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Giovanni manages to avoid it.
Matsuda misses with a shot to the body
and Giovanni counters with a nice uppercut.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut
and Giovanni connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#T4#
Giovanni ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
Giovanni avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Matsuda takes a swing at Giovanni's ribcage but misses.
Matsuda swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Giovanni counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Giovanni.
Giovanni looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda misses with a straight right.
Giovanni let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
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.#R3#
Matsuda fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Matsuda misses with a body punch
and Giovanni counters with a nice uppercut.
Matsuda misses with a telegraphed body shot
and Giovanni counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Matsuda misses with a right hand
and Giovanni counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Giovanni uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Matsuda.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt
and Giovanni counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Matsuda misses with a body shot
and Giovanni connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#T1#
Giovanni staying out of range there.
Giovanni looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Giovanni does a little dance to reset his feet.
Giovanni keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Matsuda.
A little jabbing left from Giovanni on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Giovanni takes one to the chin there.
Matsuda with a hook.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
Giovanni now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Matsuda connects with a body shot.
Nice uppercut lands for Matsuda. That snapped Giovanni's head back. #T2#
Nice shot by Matsuda.
Matsuda lands a glancing blow to the side of Giovanni's head.
Giovanni uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Giovanni looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Matsuda swings widly with a right hand
and Giovanni counters with a stiff right hand.
Matsuda swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Giovanni! But no joy.
Matsuda throws a poor cross that misses
and Giovanni counters with a solid body kick.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda cracks Giovanni with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Giovanni uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda. #T3#
Matsuda tries to score a power double leg takedown but Giovanni sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Matsuda somewhat.
Giovanni has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
A countering left hand to the body from Giovanni misses.
Matsuda misses the jab.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Matsuda moves into range and connects with a jab.
Matsuda misses with a hook
and Giovanni counters with a straight right hand.#T4#
Matsuda throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Giovanni on the side of the head.
Matsuda swings away with a body shot that misses
and Giovanni counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Giovanni ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Giovanni! But no joy.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Matsuda gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda throws a poor cross that misses
and Giovanni counters with a stiff right hand.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but Tanaka Matsuda did the better work so I'd imagine he'll take it.
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.#R4#
Matsuda misses with a hook. Giovanni ducked under it nicely.
Giovanni takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
A slow jab from Matsuda misses its intended target.
A little jabbing left from Giovanni on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut
and Giovanni counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Matsuda misses with a telegraphed body shot
and Giovanni counters with a series of strikes. Matsuda will be more careful next time no doubt.
Matsuda misses with a straight right.
Tanaka Matsuda is winning the standup battle so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Giovanni does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Giovanni moves out of range. #T1#
Matsuda misses with a hook
letting Giovanni counter with a right hand.
Nice defenses there by Giovanni.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Giovanni moves out of range.
Giovanni doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.#TD#
Matsuda looking for a takedown here - he's got it.

Giovanni has managed to wall walk up one of the corner posts to get back to his feet. Matsuda is pushing him up against the cage, looking to control the position.
Giovanni lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Giovanni lands a right hand.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Giovanni makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Giovanni pushes Matsuda back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Matsuda drops down looking for an ankle pick but Giovanni pulls his leg out and moves away.
Giovanni keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Giovanni throws out a counter right but Matsuda avoids it with no problem.#T2#
Matsuda pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Matsuda misses with a hook. Giovanni ducked under it nicely.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt - Giovanni sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Matsuda takes a swing at Giovanni's ribcage but misses.
Matsuda throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Giovanni counters with a nice uppercut. #TD#
Matsuda shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Giovanni's guard.#T3#
Giovanni keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Giovanni keeps moving.
Matsuda is fighting to break Giovanni's control of his arms but Giovanni is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Giovanni keeps moving. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Matsuda throws an off balance right hand
and Giovanni counters with a leg kick.
Giovanni uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Giovanni swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda throws a jab when Giovanni was well out of range.
Giovanni throws out a counter right but Matsuda avoids it with no problem.
Matsuda swings away with a body shot that misses
letting Giovanni counter with a right hand.
Matsuda goes for a double leg but Giovanni avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Giovanni continues to drive forward.
A little jabbing left from Giovanni on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Giovanni pushes Matsuda back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Giovanni lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Matsuda is trying to pull guard but being pressed up against the cage enables Giovanni to keep the fight standing.
Matsuda is trying to pull guard but Giovanni turns him against the cage and we stay in the clinch.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Sonny Giovanni dominated that fourth round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!#R5#
Matsuda shoots and misses
and Giovanni connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Sonny Giovanni has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Matsuda misses with a jab to the body
and Giovanni counters with a right hand to the body.
Matsuda throws a poor cross that misses
and Giovanni counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Matsuda dips to his left and cracks Giovanni with an uppercut!
Matsuda throws out a loose jab but Giovanni uses good head movement to avoid it.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nice defenses there by Giovanni.#T1#
Matsuda throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
A nice side step and Giovanni releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Matsuda misses with a right hand
and Giovanni makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Giovanni steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Giovanni throws out a counter right but Matsuda avoids it with no problem.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda misses with a right hand
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
and Giovanni connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Matsuda misses with a straight right.
Giovanni looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Matsuda takes a swing at Giovanni's ribcage but misses.
Giovanni looks like he wants to counter punch here.#T2#
Matsuda swings away with a body shot that misses
enabling Giovanni to counter with a crisp jab.
Matsuda just misses with a punch to the body.
Matsuda takes a swing at Giovanni's ribcage but misses.
Matsuda just misses with a punch to the body.
Giovanni displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matsuda throws out the jab.
Matsuda shoots in for a double leg but Giovanni sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Matsuda throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Giovanni sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Giovanni only half commits to the counter leg kick.#T3#
Giovanni keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Giovanni keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda misses with a straight right.
Giovanni swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Giovanni was well out of range. Poor timing from Matsuda.
Giovanni looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Matsuda jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Giovanni unleashes a big counter combination but Matsuda bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
Giovanni moves out of range as Matsuda strikes.
Giovanni uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Giovanni now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Giovanni displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matsuda throws out the jab. #T4#
Giovanni gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Matsuda.
Matsuda swings widly with a right hand
and Giovanni connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda looks to score with a jab to the body but Giovanni is just out of range.
Giovanni slips a straight right by Matsuda.
Giovanni doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Matsuda dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Tanaka Matsuda is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Giovanni takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Matsuda looks to land a right hand but Giovanni moved out of range.
And Giovanni responds with a good body kick, but Matsuda manages to step out the way in time.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Matheus Silva scores the fight 49:46
Judge Thiago Cunha scores the fight 49:46
Judge Alexandre Firmino scores the fight 49:46

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

Tanaka Matsuda retains his middleweight title!
A relieved looking Tanaka Matsuda 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: C232: Dracul vs Skurwysynowski     
Date:   Sep 17, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda throws a right hand that misses
and Giovanni counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Giovanni defending well as Matsuda loads up on a big left hand.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Matsuda.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Giovanni manages to avoid it.
Giovanni looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Matsuda moves out of range as Giovanni strikes.
Matsuda is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Giovanni with a body shot.
Giovanni throws a leg kick that is checked
and Matsuda counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Matsuda lands an overhand right.
Matsuda misses with a lunging right hand
enabling Giovanni to counter with a crisp jab. #CUT#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
A low kick from Giovanni is predictable there #TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Giovanni knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Matsuda on the ground.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Matsuda trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Matsuda landing some decent shots from guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Giovanni keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully. #T1#
Giovanni wants to sweep here but Matsuda controlling him for the moment.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Giovanni is keeping the position.
Giovanni keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Giovanni on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Giovanni tries to get out of the position.
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but Giovanni is retaining full guard. #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.
Matsuda throws an elbow that misses. Giovanni uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Matsuda's guard. Nice move by Giovanni!#REVR##SUB2#
Matsuda is active off his back here, looking for submissions. #SUB2#
Matsuda escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Giovanni gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Matsuda not looking particularly offensive just at the moment. #SUB2#
Matsuda throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Matsuda keeping moving, preventing Giovanni from controlling successfully. #T3##SUB2#
Matsuda has his foot on Giovanni's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Giovanni works his way back into a safe position though.#SUB2#
Matsuda has thrown up a leg looking for a triangle. Giovanni doesn't defend quickly enough and Matsuda has managed to lock this one up! Can Giovanni escape?! NO! He's tapping out! Damn, that was a quick submission - congrats to Matsuda on a fantastic submission victory.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:44 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda is the new middleweight champion!
Tanaka Matsuda thanked the fans post fight for their support.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 279     
Date:   Aug 25, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Kazuma misses with a wild body shot.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Matsuda, as that shot connected. #TD#
Matsuda bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda scores with punches from side control.
Matsuda trying to control the action but Kazuma is working from the bottom.
Matsuda lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Kazuma down.
Matsuda landing strikes.
Matsuda scoring with punches from side control.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Kazuma pushes Matsuda away and creates a bit of space to escape. He's almost out here... but no, Matsuda gets a good hold of his legs and remains firmly in side control.#T1##SUB#
Matsuda thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Matsuda wants to control but Kazuma is keeping him busy.
Matsuda 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.
Kazuma is trying to get back to his feet.#T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Matsuda is working Kazuma over with some ground and pound from side control.
Matsuda cracks Kazuma with a big right hand but Kazuma just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
Matsuda scoring with punches from side control.
Matsuda throws a strike aimed at the side of Kazuma's head but Kazuma avoids it well.
Kazuma parries the strikes from Matsuda easily there. Matsuda is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Kazuma to escape.
Matsuda throws an elbow but Kazuma slips to the side and avoids it well.
Matsuda creates a bit of distance and throws down some hard shots.
Matsuda wants to lay and pray for a moment but Kazuma keeps working.
Kazuma is working to avoid the ground and pound but Matsuda connects with a decent elbow. #T3#
Matsuda in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Matsuda lands a decent elbow from side control.
Matsuda landing a few strikes.
Matsuda wants to lay and pray for a moment but Kazuma keeps working.
Kazuma prevents Matsuda from moving into mount.
Check out the look on Matsuda's face as he threw that strike - that's one determined fighter! #SUB#
Matsuda thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Kazuma is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Matsuda has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Matsuda lands a few punches from side control.#T4#
Matsuda working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
Matsuda lands a decent elbow from side control. #SUB#
Matsuda tries for a kimura but Kazuma is defending well.
Matsuda cracks Kazuma with a big elbow.
Matsuda trying to control the action but Kazuma is working from the bottom.
Matsuda lands a few punches from side control.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Matsuda lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Kazuma down.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
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.#R2#
Kazuma swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Matsuda comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Matsuda lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Kazuma misses with a looping left.
Kazuma misses with a hook.
Matsuda with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Kazuma can do to turn this around?
Matsuda punishes Kazuma's body with a nice straight punch.
Matsuda lands a jab.
Matsuda jabs Kazuma to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Kazuma misses with a right hand #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Matsuda prevents Kazuma from getting back to his feet.
Matsuda is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Matsuda lands a couple of elbows.
Matsuda's corner is telling him to maintain position.#T1#
Matsuda trying to control but Kazuma is working from the bottom.
Matsuda passes Kazuma's left leg - he's now in half guard. #SUB#
Matsuda is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Matsuda stops Kazuma from getting back to his feet. #SUB#
Matsuda seems to be working for a kimura but Kazuma defends the submission attempt.#T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Matsuda moves into full mount! Kazuma won't be happy about that!
Kazuma really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Matsuda. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.#SUB#
Matsuda is in full mount, looking to secure a guillotine but Kazuma is surviving well by controlling Matsuda's body position as best he can.
Matsuda putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Matsuda landing shots from mount.
Matsuda landing punches. #ES2#
Kazuma bucks Matsuda off and manages to get back to his feet!
Kazuma tries a head kick but it misses. #T3#
Matsuda connects with a body shot.
Kazuma throws a shot from downtown. Matsuda moves away and avoids it.
A quick step to the side and Matsuda tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matsuda throws out a powerful jab.
Matsuda looks for a takedown but Kazuma sprawls well.
Kiryu Kazuma is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Matsuda takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Kazuma misses the shot to the body.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Kazuma throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Matsuda comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Matsuda scores with a hook.
Kiryu Kazuma seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda cracks a nice hook into Kazuma's ribs.
Kazuma closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Kazuma throws a jab but it's blocked by Matsuda.
Matsuda slips under a jab.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Kazuma avoids it well and moves away.#T4#
Kazuma swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Kazuma gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Matsuda scores with a jab.
Kazuma misses with a left hand #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a takedown into side control. #ES2#
Kazuma explodes and escapes back to his feet! Nice escape there!
Kazuma is really struggling to land any decent head shots against his taller opponent.
Matsuda avoids the head kick by Kazuma.
Matsuda is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Nice cross by Kazuma.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda with a hook.
A head kick by Kazuma misses #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Matsuda working Kazuma over with strikes.
Matsuda lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Matsuda is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Kazuma looks like he's trying to stand up.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! This is the final round!#R3#
Matsuda doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Matsuda dodges the punch combination from Kazuma.
Matsuda uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Kazuma.
Kazuma loads up on a big right hand but Matsuda slips the punch.
Kazuma moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Matsuda slips under a jab.
Matsuda avoids a punch combination nicely.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kazuma uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Kazuma fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Kazuma swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Kazuma takes one on the chin but keeps coming. #T1#
Matsuda throws out a powerful jab.
Matsuda slips a jab from Kazuma.
Matsuda jabs Kazuma to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Kazuma dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda misses the shot to the body. #KD2#
Kazuma drops Matsuda with a beautiful combination! Matsuda stares up at his opponent, who ushers him back to his feet - Kazuma is looking for the KO!#ROC2#Matsuda is rocked!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Matsuda slips a straight right by Kazuma.
An attempted straight right counter from Matsuda misses the target.
A big left from Kazuma misses.
Kazuma takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Matsuda just misses with a punch to the body.
It seemed like Kazuma was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Kazuma lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.#CUT2#Tanaka Matsuda's cut is getting worse.
Kazuma throws a quick inside leg kick.
Kazuma works the jab nicely.
Oh Matsuda is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Matsuda throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Kazuma stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Matsuda seems to have got his legs back now.#T2#
Kazuma misses with a double jab
and Matsuda counters with a straight right hand.
Kazuma misses with a lunging right hand
and Matsuda counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Kazuma throws out a loose jab but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
Matsuda takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Kazuma pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Kazuma misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Kazuma takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Kazuma takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Matsuda checks a leg kick.
Nice body punch from Matsuda.
Matsuda takes a swing at Kazuma's ribcage but misses.
Matsuda uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Kazuma.
Nice body punch from Matsuda.
Kazuma misses the body punch #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Kazuma's guard.
Kazuma wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda passes into half guard. #T3##REVB#
Matsuda is taking a breather. Kazuma says something to him but it's hard to make out. Perhaps he's telling him to get on with it and actually do something.
Matsuda slips a nice elbow through Kazuma's hands, connecting with Kazuma's forehead.
Matsuda trying to control the action but Kazuma is working from the bottom.
Kazuma taking some punishment here, with Matsuda in his half guard. #T4#
Matsuda is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Kazuma pushes Matsuda off looking to stand but Matsuda dives back in and keeps control.
Matsuda lands with a punch from half guard.
Kazuma is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Matsuda scores with a couple of nice shots.
Kazuma pushes Matsuda off looking to stand but Matsuda dives back in and keeps control.
Matsuda scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Tanaka Matsuda is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#SUB#
Matsuda seems to be looking for submissions.
Matsuda is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
Kiryu Kazuma has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Matsuda scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Kazuma?

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Kiryu Kazuma.
Well Matsuda 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 30:28
Judge James Atkins scores the fight 29:28
Judge Daniel Bishop scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

A victorious Tanaka Matsuda thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 275     
Date:   Aug 11, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda misses with an uppercut
enabling Karter to counter with a crisp jab.
Matsuda throws an overhand right that lands on Karter's shoulder, as Karter tries to avoid the shot.
Matsuda lands a right hook to the body.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Karter moves away.
Karter throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Karter avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Karter is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Matsuda with a body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Karter throws a body kick that misses.
Matsuda throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Karter counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head. #CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
Matsuda lands a glancing blow to the side of Karter's head.#T1#
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
Karter swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Matsuda checks a leg kick nicely.
Matsuda throws an off balance right hand
and Karter counters with a lovely shot to the body.#TD#
Matsuda looking to score a takedown here. Karter is defending well but Matsuda drives through and ends up in Karter's guard.
Karter preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Matsuda postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Matsuda throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Karter looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T2#
Matsuda controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Matsuda 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.
Karter keeping full guard, as Matsuda tries to pass.
Matsuda scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Karter avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Matsuda stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Karter swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Matsuda working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage. #T3#
Karter controlling Matsuda's posture.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Karter looking for a sweep. Not yet Karter, not yet. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Karter takes one on the button.
Matsuda blocks a jab.#TD#
Matsuda drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Matsuda working away.
Karter takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well. #T4#
Matsuda throws a strike aimed at the side of Karter's head but Karter avoids it well.
Matsuda scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Karter to see if he's OK.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Karter can do anything to dispel that myth.#SUB#
Matsuda is trying to get an arm triangle but Karter is defending well.
Matsuda tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
Karter really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Matsuda. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Matsuda in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Matsuda tries to move to mount but Karter blocks the move with his legs.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda'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#
Matsuda cracks Karter with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Despite the aggression on Karter's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
A slow jab from Karter misses its intended target.
Matsuda lands the left hand.
Matsuda shoots for a double leg takedown but Karter sprawls well. He's pushed Matsuda's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Karter fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Karter moves out of range.
Karter looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
Nice takedown defense from Karter. No joy for Matsuda on that attempt.
Karter flicks out a counter leg kick but Matsuda steps away.#T1#
Matsuda pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Karter throws a wild body kick that Matsuda sees coming a mile off.
Karter attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
Matsuda fails with a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Karter swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Karter avoids it well and moves away.
Karter misses with a wild body shot.
Red Jesus Karter seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Matsuda lands a body shot. #T2#
Karter slips under a jab from Matsuda.
Karter misses with a body kick.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Matsuda wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Matsuda cracks Karter with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Matsuda misses with a hook.
Karter misses with a straight right.
Karter misses with a leg kick.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Karter misses the body punch #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Matsuda.
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!
Karter keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda looking to sit in guard and control but Karter gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB##T3#
Matsuda keeping moving, preventing Karter from controlling successfully.
Karter controls the pace of the fight for a moment.#SUB#
Karter content to sit in guard, stalling... Great. Oh but he could get punished here because Matsuda has locked up a guillotine! Matsuda's face is contorted as he sqeezes tight on the submission attempt - will he finish? Karter is holding on here and Matsuda must be using up a lot of energy. Karter has gone limp! He's out! He's out cold! Matsuda gets to his feet, tossing aside his stricken foe. Arms raised, he milks the applause from the crowd. Great submission!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:53 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Tanaka Matsuda!
After winning the bout, Tanaka Matsuda thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.
The defeated Red Jesus Karter had this to say: 'Go fuck yourselves '.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 268     
Date:   Jul 14, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda looks to score with a jab to the body but Johnson is just out of range.
We've been hearing reports that Matsuda has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Matsuda throws a predictable looking body shot
and Johnson counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda misses the jab.
Johnson let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Johnson doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.#TD#
Matsuda gets a double leg takedown into Johnson's guard.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Johnson working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Matsuda.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda is in close to Johnson's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Johnson keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda is looking to work some ground and pound but Johnson has wrist control.#T1#
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Johnson keeps moving.
Matsuda stopping the sweep attempt from Johnson.
Matsuda looking to sit in guard and control but Johnson gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB##SUB#
Matsuda is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Johnson is aware though and is defending well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Matsuda throws his legs up looking for a submission but Johnson uses it to pass to side control.
Johnson working away.
Matsuda is trying to improve his position.#T2#
Matsuda trying his best to control but Johnson has mounted him.
Matsuda 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.
Johnson prevents Matsuda from getting the reversal.
Matsuda looking to escape from mount but he's given up his back!
Johnson keeps control of the position as Matsuda tries to break free. #T3#
So, who will make the next big move? In this position it could be crucial.
Matsuda rolls, trying to escape but Johnson keeps control of the position.
Johnson gets his hands free as Matsuda looks to control.
Matsuda tries to escape the position.
Johnson is looking cool and calm here, just waiting for a good opportunity to attack and finish the fight from this dominant position. #T4#
Matsuda wants to control his opponent's hands but Johnson gets his hands free.
Matsuda is trying to break free.
I would not like to be Matsuda right now.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Johnson is hanging on to Matsuda's back as he tries to escape.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Kareem Johnson will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Matsuda scores with a decent looking hook.
Matsuda swings for the body but Johnson moves out of range.
Matsuda misses the body punch
and Johnson counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Johnson gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Matsuda.
Matsuda is looking to wear down Johnson with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Matsuda fails to land the takedown.
Matsuda backing away here, and Johnson unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda jabs at Johnson's body.
Johnson swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Johnson is quick to defend against it.#T1#
Matsuda scores with a jab to the body.
Johnson takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Johnson walks into a jab.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Johnson. Matsuda shrugs it off though.
A shot to the liver by Johnson. Beautiful body shot.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Matsuda waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Johnson.
Johnson swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Johnson fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Matsuda throws the left hand but Johnson avoids the punch easily.
Johnson looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.#T2#
Matsuda takes a jab right on the kisser.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Johnson throws a sloppy head kick and Matsuda moves out of range easily.
Matsuda scores with a hook to the body. Johnson takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Johnson walks into a left hand.
Johnson looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Matsuda misses with a straight right.
Johnson looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Johnson does a little dance to reset his feet.
Johnson swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda misses with a right hand
and Johnson counters with a straight right hand.
Johnson gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Matsuda doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #T3#
Johnson scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Johnson does a little dance to reset his feet.#TD#
Matsuda closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Johnson tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.
Johnson trying to control here.
Johnson is looking for a sweep. Matsuda is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#T4#
Johnson trying to hold on to Matsuda's head to control him but Matsuda postures up.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Matsuda lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears. #SUB#
Johnson is defending against the submission attempts here by Matsuda.
Matsuda missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Matsuda works his way into full mount!
Matsuda punching from mount but Johnson doing a good job of avoiding damage.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
That's time! Back to the action! Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!#R3#
Johnson steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Johnson throws a lazy right hand but Matsuda sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Good exchange - Johnson coming out on top.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Kareem Johnson seems to be getting the better of the standup.#TD#
Johnson tries to sprawl but Matsuda drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Johnson regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Matsuda.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Johnson utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Matsuda throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Johnson works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Johnson keeps moving. #T1#
Matsuda stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Johnson swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Matsuda throws a strike but Johnson rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVB##SUB#
Matsuda is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Johnson is aware though and is defending well.
Johnson passes into half guard.
Matsuda is looking to get back to full guard here but Johnson has managed to pass to side control instead.
Matsuda looking for a sweep but Johnson has passed into full mount! Oh no!#T2#
Matsuda keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Matsuda regains half guard.#SUB#
Matsuda looking for a kimura from the bottom but Johnson passes into side control!
Johnson is pausing for a moment. What's he doing? It looks like he's clearing his nose. Oh dude! He's shot a load of snot all down Matsuda's shoulder. That is not cool.
Matsuda tries to control but end up mounted... ooooh, that's bad.#T3#
Matsuda keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Johnson tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
Matsuda is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
Matsuda wants to control but Johnson is having none of it.#T4#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Matsuda working to try and regain half guard.
Matsuda regains half guard.
Matsuda trying to control but Johnson postures up.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB#
Matsuda actively working from the bottom here.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Chris Edwards scores the fight 28:29
Judge Sam Margolis scores the fight 28:29
Judge James Ackerman scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Kareem Johnson!

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

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 262     
Date:   Jun 23, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda throws a shot to the body.
Matsuda throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Barkley throws a body kick that digs right into the meat. #TD#
Barkley gets caught napping as Matsuda dives in and scores a takedown. Barkley manages to retain guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Barkley preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Matsuda accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Matsuda working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Barkley keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Barkley preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Barkley avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent. #T1#
Barkley keeping full guard, as Matsuda tries to pass.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Barkley can do anything to dispel that myth.
Matsuda being controlled here momentarily.
Barkley keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
The referee is asking the fighters to pick up the pace.
Matsuda loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Matsuda shoots for a takedown but Barkley saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.#T2#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Barkley throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
Matsuda needs to keep his hands up - Barkley had a free shot at his head there.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt
and Barkley counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Matsuda throws a lazy uppercut
and Barkley counters with a body kick that brings a smile to the face of both fighters.
Barkley scores with a head kick.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
It seemed like Barkley was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Matsuda slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Barkley moves away from the strike by Matsuda.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#T3#
Barkley takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut
and Barkley counters with a nice low kick that buckles Matsuda's knee momentarily.
Matsuda misses with a hook. Barkley ducked under it nicely.
A big left from Barkley misses.
Matsuda takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Matsuda fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Matsuda looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Barkley is fending him off so far but Matsuda persists. Nope, Barkley circles away and we're back to standing.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda throws a lazy uppercut
and Barkley counters with a thumping low kick. #T4#
Matsuda jabs Barkley to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Barkley takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Barkley avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
A decent looking cross lands there for Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with a lunging right hand
and Barkley counters with a nice leg kick.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Barkley misses with the body kick
and Matsuda makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Matsuda lands with a good body shot.
Matsuda punishes Barkley's body with a nice straight punch.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
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 Tanaka Matsuda will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Nice defenses there by Matsuda.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Matsuda looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Barkley is fending him off so far but Matsuda persists. Nope, Barkley circles away and we're back to standing.
Matsuda takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Barkley misses with the body kick#TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into half guard. #SUB#
Matsuda seems to be looking for submissions.
Barkley tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Matsuda thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas. #T1#
Matsuda is pressing down on Barkley's thigh, looking to free his foot. Barkley is holding on for now.
Matsuda throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Barkley is controlling Matsuda's trapped leg to prevent Matsuda from advancing to side control.#SUB#
Matsuda is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Barkley is staying active underneath Matsuda, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Barkley has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Matsuda is working away from the top position though.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.
Matsuda sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Barkley defending well though. #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.#SUB#
Barkley is defending against the submission attempts here by Matsuda.
Matsuda throws a strike but Barkley avoids it easily and moves to full guard.
Matsuda trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Matsuda postures up in Barkley's guard and throws a big left but Barkley blocks it. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Barkley manages to avoid it.
Matsuda dips down and scores with a jab to the body.#T3#
Barkley takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Barkley keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Barkley keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Barkley flicks out a counter leg kick but Matsuda steps away.
Nick Barkley seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Matsuda scores with a jab to the head.
Barkley throws a lazy head kick #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a takedown into side control.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Barkley can do to turn this around?
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Matsuda tries to move to mount but Barkley blocks the move with his legs. #T4#
Matsuda working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Barkley tries to improve position but can't.
Barkley regains half guard, as Matsuda was trying to land strikes.
Barkley avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Matsuda.
Matsuda is keen to just control but Barkley is a slippery customer.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB#
Matsuda is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Barkley sees it coming and defends easily.#SUB#
Matsuda is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Barkley is just riding it out for now. Matsuda eventually gives up the hold.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R3#
Barkley connects with a good right hand that stumbles Matsuda. Matsuda circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Matsuda's jab looks to have found its range, popping Barkley under the eye.
Matsuda is looking to wear down Barkley with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Barkley throws a jab when Matsuda was well out of range.
Matsuda darts in looking for a takedown but Barkley gets double underhooks and turns Matsuda into the cage.
Matsuda's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!#T1#
Matsuda drops to a knee looking for a takedown but Barkley gets the underhooks and prevents it.
Barkley lands a nice uppercut.
Barkley lands with a right to the head.
Matsuda is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Barkley tries to work over Matsuda's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Barkley missing with knees to the body.
Good body shot from Matsuda.
Barkley is trying to wear down his opponent with knees to the body.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Matsuda tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Barkley landing knees to the body.
A left hand lands to the body for Barkley.
A short right from Barkley.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Barkley.
Barkley lands on the inside with an uppercut.
A short body shot lands from Barkley as the two fighters clinch.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Barkley is trying to wear down his opponent with knees to the body.
Barkley digs a right hand into Matsuda's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Matsuda's gas tank. #T2#
Barkley lands with a light punch inside.
Barkley lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Barkley scores with a shot to the side of Matsuda's head.
Barkley tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Matsuda avoids it.
Barkley lands with a light punch inside.
Barkley gets through Matsuda's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Barkley scores with a nice hook to the head.
Matsuda jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Barkley walks away with a smile on his face. Matsuda gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
Matsuda sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.
Barkley throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Barkley wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Barkley misses with a body kick.
Matsuda shoots in looking for a takedown but Barkley manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Matsuda's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Barkley is trying to counter with his kicks.#T3#
Matsuda rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Barkley counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Barkley lands with a straight right. Matsuda didn't see that one coming.
Barkley walks forward and throws a big overhand right! Matsuda drops to the floor like a sack of potatoes! Barkley swarms on him with more punches until the referee wrestles him away from Matsuda's unconscious body! Wow, that was brutal!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:24 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Nick Barkley!
Nick Barkley is the new middleweight champion!
Nick Barkley seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 258     
Date:   Jun 09, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nickel turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Nickel throws a body shot but no joy.
Nickel is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
Matsuda avoids the body shot from Nickel.
Nickel throws a body shot but no joy.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.#TD#
Matsuda looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.#SUB#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Nickel has managed to free his arm - good work. #SUB#
Matsuda is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Nickel is just riding it out for now. Matsuda eventually gives up the hold.
Matsuda lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt. #T1#
Nickel pushes Matsuda off looking to stand but Matsuda dives back in and keeps control.
Nickel controlling the position well.
Nickel taking some punishment here, with Matsuda in his half guard.
Nickel tries to kick Matsuda off but Matsuda keeps his base steady and stays in half guard. #SUB#
Matsuda seems to be working for a kimura but Nickel defends the submission attempt.
Matsuda sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Nickel defending well though. #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.
Matsuda is looking to take a break and control but Nickel is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Nickel is defending well.
Nickel tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Nickel can do anything to dispel that myth.
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes. #SUB#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Nickel has managed to free his arm - good work.
Nickel is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Nickel wants to get back to his feet.#T3#
Matsuda scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Matsuda drops an elbow to the side of Nickel's head.
Nickel is trying to stand up here but Matsuda is controlling him well.
Matsuda 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#
Matsuda is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Matsuda seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Matsuda connects with a nice short shot to Nickel's temple. #SUB#
Matsuda wants to work for an arm triangle but Nickel is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Matsuda winds up and cracks Nickel with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Matsuda wants to control but Nickel is keeping him busy. #T4#
Nickel preventing any damage for now, controlling his opponent's head. #ES2#
Nickel has one foot on Matsuda's thigh - he pushes off and manages to get back to his feet.
Matsuda tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Nickel throws a series of punches but Matsuda avoids them all with ease.
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Matsuda tries to score a power double leg takedown but Nickel sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Matsuda somewhat.
It seemed like Nickel was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nickel misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
Nickel misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
Nickel throws a body kick that digs right into the meat.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Nickel swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Nickel takes a shot right to the bread basket.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Nickel! But no joy.
No joy there for Nickel, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Matsuda's corner calls for a 1-2. Matsuda obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Nickel throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Nickel can pounce on him.
Chip Nickel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nickel slips under a jab.
Nickel now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Nickel throws a good cross that connects.
Nickel dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Nickel throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nickel scores with a body shot.
Nickel misses with a wild body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda fails with the takedown.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut. Nickel saw that one coming.
Nickel staying out of range there.
Nickel catches Matsuda with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!#T1#
Nickel connects with a high kick.
Nickel tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Nickel avoids it well and moves away.
Nickel attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
A punch lands to the side of Matsuda 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Matsuda looks to throw the jab but Nickel is out of range.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nickel.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Nickel moves away.
Nickel lands with a good body shot.
Nickel fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.#TD#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Matsuda.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matsuda lands a decent elbow from side control. #SUB#
Matsuda tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Matsuda working away.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#T2#
Matsuda trying to control the action but Nickel is working from the bottom.
Nickel tries to buck Matsuda off but Matsuda is having none of it.
Nickel is trying to buck Matsuda off.
Matsuda is putting a hurting on Nickel here, landing some big shots from side control.
Nickel wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda drags him back down.
Nickel is trying to get back to half guard.
The strikes coming from Matsuda are missing the target in this wave of attacks. #T3#
Matsuda lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face.
Matsuda gets to mount! Nickel was on the offensive and wasn't defending properly.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nickel is looking to get to half guard.
Matsuda wants to control the pace but Nickel is squirming around nicely.
Matsuda scores with a couple of good head shots there.
Matsuda lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Matsuda fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there! #SUB#
Matsuda has hold of Nickel's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and Nickel manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger. #T4#
Nickel taking shots to the head.
Matsuda lands a shot to the body, followed up by a shot to the exposed head of his trapped opponent.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nickel tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Matsuda raining down hammerfists from mount.
Nickel tries to reverse the position but Matsuda maintains control.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Nickel can do to turn this around?
Matsuda looking to control but Nickel is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Nickel can't escape the position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
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#
Matsuda tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Nickel swivels and escapes.
Nickel walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Matsuda takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Nickel fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Matsuda is out of range.
Nickel misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
A big left from Nickel misses.
Nickel throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
A big right from Nickel misses.
Nice takedown defense from Nickel. No joy for Matsuda on that attempt.
Nickel tries to score with a low kick but Matsuda moves his leg out of the way.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nickel with a nice calf kick.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Nickel moves out of range.
Nickel is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Matsuda with a body shot.
A big left from Matsuda misses.
Nickel throws a fast counter high kick but Matsuda manages to duck under it in time.
Matsuda cracks Nickel with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Nickel swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.#T1#
Nickel swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Nickel with a hook.
Nickel thows a left - swing and a miss!
Nickel pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Chip Nickel is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Nickel swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
Nice takedown defense from Nickel. No joy for Matsuda on that attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Matsuda stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Nickel.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Nickel slips the punch.
Nickel misses with a straight right.
Nickel throws a jab but it's blocked by Matsuda.
A nice leg kick lands there from Nickel.
Nickel misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Nickel avoids it well and moves away.
Nickel pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
A solid leg kick lands there for Nickel.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot. #T2#
Matsuda on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Nickel. Nickel obviously looking to wear him down.
A swing and a miss from Nickel.
Nickel throws a nice looking combination but Matsuda bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Matsuda waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Nickel.
A jab from Matsuda misses.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nickel lands a jab to the nose.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut. Nickel saw that one coming.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda slips a straight right by Nickel.
Matsuda shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Nickel pinned against the cage. Nickel gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Matsuda shoots for a double leg takedown but Nickel sprawls well. He's pushed Matsuda's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Matsuda misses with a left hand
and Nickel counters with a straight right hand.
Nickel bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Matsuda's head backwards.#T3#
Matsuda's jab looks to have found its range, popping Nickel under the eye.
Nickel throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Nickel wants to slow Matsuda down by chopping away at his legs.
It looked like Matsuda wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Nickel just misses with a punch to the body.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Nickel.
Nickel misses with a straight right.
Nickel tries to close the distance and clinch but Matsuda swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Nice cross by Nickel.
Jab from Matsuda.
Nickel lands a leg kick that knocks Matsuda off balance momentarily.
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
Nickel tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Nickel jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Nickel uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Nickel appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Nickel slaps away a takedown attempt from Matsuda, before circling back to the center of the mat.#T4#
Matsuda takes a swing at Nickel's ribcage but misses.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Matsuda is defended easily by Nickel.
Nickel throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Nickel cracks a nice hook into Matsuda's ribs.
Nickel lands with a good body shot.
Matsuda is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Nickel tries to clinch but Matsuda moves away #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda lands strikes from half guard.
Matsuda throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Nickel is trying to get back to full guard.
Matsuda lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Chip Nickel really dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R4#
Nickel pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Nickel throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nickel.
Nickel missing with a left hand there. Matsuda was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
A swing and a miss from Nickel.
Nickel fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Matsuda checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Matsuda rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Nickel counters with a stiff right hand.
A big right from Matsuda misses.
Matsuda tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Nickel defends well and Matsuda ends up having to push Nickel into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Nickel prevents the takedown attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda prevents a body shot from Nickel.
Matsuda tries for a takedown. No joy.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Nickel gets through Matsuda's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Nickel misses with the head strike.
Nickel is pressed up against the cage. Matsuda has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Nickel down to the mat. Nickel avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Nickel looks to land a body kick but Matsuda moved away.#T1#
A left lands for Matsuda.
Nickel throws a hook but Matsuda avoids it easily.
Matsuda was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Nickel misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
Nickel connects with a leg kick.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Nickel misses with a hook.
Nickel lands a lovely overhand right.
Jab, jab by Matsuda - just one landing.
A jab from Nickel finds it's way through Matsuda's defenses.
Jab from Nickel.
Nickel tries to clinch but Matsuda moves out of range.
A decent looking cross lands there for Nickel.
Matsuda steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Nickel.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Matsuda takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Matsuda slips under a jab from Nickel.
Nickel throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Matsuda is looking to counter with a shot to the body.#T2#
Nickel scores with a nice strike.
Nickel digs a good body shot into Matsuda's ribs.
Chip Nickel seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Matsuda jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Nickel looks to throw the jab but Matsuda is out of range.
Nickel fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Nickel looks like he wants to counter punch here.#TD#
Matsuda looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Nickel!
Matsuda lands some shots froms side control.
Nickel is trying to get back to half guard.
Nickel is looking to work his way out of this bad position but Matsuda is controlling him well.#T3#
Matsuda sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Nickel is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Matsuda in side control, throwing shots but Nickel defends.
Nickel dodges the ground and pound from Matsuda.
Matsuda wants to control but Nickel is keeping him busy.
Matsuda scores with a couple of short elbows.
Matsuda lands a decent elbow from side control.
Nickel is looking for a sweep.#SUB#
Matsuda is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Nickel knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Nickel tries to buck Matsuda off but Matsuda is having none of it.#T4#
Matsuda lands some shots froms side control.
Matsuda lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Nickel down.
Nickel prevents Matsuda from moving into mount.
Check out the look on Matsuda's face as he threw that strike - that's one determined fighter!
Matsuda wants to lay and pray for a moment but Nickel keeps working.
The ground and pound from Matsuda seems to be hitting the mat more than his opponent.
Matsuda working the ground and pound.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Chip Nickel dominated that fourth 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. This is the final round!#R5#
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Nickel.
Nickel walks into a left hand.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Nickel moves out of range.
Nickel is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Matsuda with a body shot.
Matsuda takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Nickel with a nice calf kick.
A punch lands to the side of Matsuda 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Nickel misses with a body shot.
Nickel will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Nickel avoids it well and moves away.
Nickel scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Nickel misses with a leg kick #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a takedown into side control.

Nickel throws his opponent off and manages to get back to his feet! Nicely done!
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!
Matsuda looks to land a right hand but Nickel moved out of range.
Nickel throws out a leg kick but Matsuda moves out of range and Nickel only half commits.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Matsuda checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.#T1#
Nickel scores with a jab to the head.
Matsuda gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Nickel.
Nickel connects with a solid leg kick.
Nickel throws a chopping leg kick but Matsuda manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Matsuda looks to land a right hand but Nickel moved out of range.
Matsuda waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Nickel.
Nickel looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Nickel throws a body kick, spinning off balance#TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Matsuda prevents Nickel from improving his position.
Matsuda takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.#SUB#
Matsuda is working for a kimura but Nickel is defending it quite comfortably.
Matsuda throwing shots but Nickel is blocking nicely. #T2#
Matsuda moves into full mount! Nickel won't be happy about that!
This has been an exciting period of action!#SUB#
Matsuda looking for a guillotine from mount but Nickel is having none of it.
Matsuda scores with a couple of good head shots there.
Matsuda working the ground and pound effectively.
Matsuda pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Matsuda landing shots from mount. #T3#
Nickel tries to reverse the position but Matsuda maintains control.
Matsuda lands a big elbow. #SUB#
Matsuda with some aggressive grappling here. He's looking for submissions here, rather than waiting for the opportunity to counter.
Nickel wants to control but Matsuda is having none of it.
Nickel is trying desperately to improve position.
The crowd growing excited in anticipation of a finish here! Right on cue, Matsuda cracks his opponent with a massive right hand that draws loud cheers! #T4#
Matsuda controlling the pace for now.
Nickel is looking to improve his position but Matsuda isn't that keen on the idea.
Nickel is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Matsuda pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Matsuda has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Nickel's face.
Matsuda is still in mount, landing shots to his trapped opponent. Nickel can't stay in a position like this for much longer.
Nickel is trying desperately to improve position.
Matsuda fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Chris Edwards scores the fight 48:47
Judge Paul Tew scores the fight 48:47
Judge Sam Margolis scores the fight 48:47

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

Tanaka Matsuda retains his middleweight title!
A victorious Tanaka Matsuda thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

 

Event: DMMA May the 4th be with You     
Date:   May 04, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda thuds a left hand into Outback's body.
Outback moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Outback manages to avoid it.
Outback throws a hook but Matsuda avoids it easily.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda checks a leg kick.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
A big left from Matsuda misses.
Matsuda cracks Outback with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Outback throws out a loose jab but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
Matsuda is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Outback misses the shot to the body.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Outback.
Matsuda lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Outback at a distance. #T1#
Outback takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Outback takes a jab right on the kisser.
Matsuda tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Outback was well out of range. Poor timing from Matsuda.
Outback swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Outback throws a right hand that misses #TD2#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Outback's guard.
Matsuda pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Outback is keeping the position for now.
Matsuda keeps trying to improve his position.
Matsuda postures up and lands a big shot to Outback's brow.
Outback knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Matsuda on the ground.
Matsuda stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Outback swivels though and keeps the full guard. #T2#
Matsuda keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Outback's head.
Matsuda is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Matsuda works over Outback with some ground and pound from guard.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Matsuda accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Outback wants to sweep but no luck.
Matsuda postures up in Outback's guard and throws a big left but Outback blocks it.
Matsuda trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Outback is trying to control the position but Matsuda postures up. #T3#
Matsuda working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Matsuda working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Outback avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Matsuda stands up over Outback, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Outback working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Matsuda.
Matsuda is pushing down on Outback's leg trying to pass to half guard. Outback is fighting to maintain full guard but Matsuda has managed to sneak the leg through.
Matsuda tries to pass the half guard into mount. Outback knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Matsuda landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent. #T4##SUB2#
Matsuda seems to be working for a kimura but Outback defends the submission attempt.
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses, also allowing Outback to regain full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Outback avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Matsuda content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Matsuda is pushing down on Outback's leg trying to pass to half guard. Outback is fighting to maintain full guard but Matsuda has managed to sneak the leg through.#SUB2#
Matsuda is working for a submission of some sort.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Outback tries to move into range but Matsuda moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Outback moves away.
Outback takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Outback pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be getting the better of the standup.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda throws out a powerful jab.
Matsuda throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
An attempted straight right counter from Outback misses the target.
Outback tries to land a leg kick but Matsuda saw it coming and moves away. #T1#
Matsuda rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Outback cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Matsuda just misses with a punch to the body.
Outback tries a low kick but Matsuda avoids it.
Matsuda throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Outback stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Matsuda connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Outback throws a leg kick but Matsuda moved away.
Matsuda with the counter takedown but Outback avoids it easily.
Outback uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Matsuda stuns Outback with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Outback scores with a nice right hand. #CUT#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
A telegraphed right hand from Matsuda misses the target.
Outback swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#T2#
Outback throws a leg kick but Matsuda sees it coming and checks it nicely. #TD2#
Matsuda changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Outback looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Outback stops Matsuda from passing to mount. #SUB2#
Matsuda working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it. #SUB2#
Matsuda tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
A bit of a lull in the action. I'm sure it will pick up again soon... even if the ref has to physically pick them up and put them back on their feet. #T3#
Matsuda tries to land with some ground and pound but misses. #SUB2#
Matsuda tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Matsuda has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Matsuda working the ground and pound from side control.#SUB2#
Matsuda tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Matsuda has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Outback is not content to let Matsuda control the position. #T4#
Outback takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
You can see the frustration on Outback's face as Matsuda controls the position.
Matsuda misses with the ground and pound.
Matsuda trying to control the position but Outback is working away.
Matsuda in side control, throwing shots but Outback defends.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Matsuda is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Outback knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! Let's get this one finished - here comes the final round!#R3#
Outback on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Outback ducks right into an uppercut from Matsuda.
Jab, jab by Matsuda - just one landing.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Outback looks to score with a jab to the body but Matsuda is just out of range.
Matsuda misses the jab.
Matsuda swings widly with a right hand
and Outback counters with an inside leg kick. #T1#
Outback connects with an inside leg kick.
Outback throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Matsuda sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Outback slips the punch.
As Matsuda looks to move away, Outback throws a big counter combo but Matsuda just gets out of the way.
Outback misses with a kick to the body.
Outback throws a nice head kick!
Outback rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Matsuda counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Matsuda connects with a body shot.
The fighters circling - Outback throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Good shot there by Matsuda.
Macca Outback is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Outback thinks about countering with a body kick.#T2#
Matsuda lands a really nice looking cross but Outback seems unphased.
Matsuda takes a swing at Outback's ribcage but misses.
Matsuda jabs at Outback's body.
Matsuda misses with a looping right.
Macca Outback has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Outback ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
Matsuda looks to throw the jab but Outback is out of range.
Outback avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Outback fires out a quick counter leg kick but Matsuda just manages to avoid it.
Matsuda just misses with a punch to the body.
Outback ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.#T3#
Outback throws a leg kick but Matsuda moved away.
A big right from Matsuda misses.
Matsuda swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Outback counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Matsuda avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Matsuda 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.
Outback moves out of range as Matsuda strikes.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Outback.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda scores with a jab. Outback acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Outback slips under a jab.
Outback quickly followed up with a counter body kick but doesn't connect.#T4#
Nice body punch from Matsuda.
Matsuda thuds a left hand into Outback's body.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Outback manages to avoid it.
Outback throws a lazy right hand but Matsuda sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Matsuda tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Outback moves out of range of the strikes.
Outback misses with a few strikes there.
Tanaka Matsuda is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Outback lands with a thumping leg kick.
Matsuda tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Outback defends well and Matsuda ends up having to push Outback into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Outback misses with a body shot.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Matsuda 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 James Glass scores the fight 27:30
Judge Sam Margolis scores the fight 27:30
Judge Richard Clark scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

Our winner, Tanaka Matsuda, 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: Sucker Punch Pro Series 244     
Date:   Apr 09, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Stanley lands a body shot.
Stanley bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
It seemed like Stanley was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Matsuda takes a swing at Stanley's ribcage but misses.
Stanley tries to counter with a clinch but Matsuda shakes him off and moves away.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Stanley throws a series of punches but Matsuda avoids them all with ease.
Matsuda dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown but Stanley shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Matsuda has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Gunner's School of Combat in the buildup to the fight.
Matsuda throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Stanley sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Stanley throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Stanley misses with a body shot.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.#TD#
Matsuda is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Stanley's half guard.
We could do with one of the fighters taking the initiative a bit more on the ground - they're both waiting to capitalize on a mistake.
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!
Stanley has his hands clasped together around Matsuda's back. He's all about the action.#T1#
Matsuda is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Stanley is controlling Matsuda's position as best he can from this difficult position.
Stanley tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.
Matsuda not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Ground and pound from Matsuda.
Stanley gets full guard.
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time. #T2##SUB2#
Stanley had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Matsuda defends it easily.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Stanley seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Stanley pulls Matsuda in close to prevent any damage.
Stanley is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda with a flurry of punches that miss. #T3#
Stanley avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Stanley is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Matsuda preventing the sweep. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Matsuda tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Stanley was well out of range. Poor timing from Matsuda.
A countering left hand to the body from Stanley misses.
Stanley ducks right into an uppercut from Matsuda.
Stanley tries to close the distance and clinch but Matsuda swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Matsuda with a nice cross.
The fighters circling - Matsuda throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Matsuda bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Matsuda pushing out the jab but it's not landing. #T4#
Nice sprawl there from Stanley as Matsuda shoots in.
Stanley is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Stanley scores with a body shot.
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
A decent looking cross lands there for Matsuda.
Matsuda lands with a good body shot.
Stanley moves forwards but Matsuda connects with a nice, crisp jab.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#TD#
Matsuda changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Stanley looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that 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.#R2#
Stanley takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Matsuda misses with a lunging right hand
and Stanley counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Matsuda throws out a loose jab but Stanley uses good head movement to avoid it.
The fight stays on the outside here - Stanley looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Stanley swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.#TD#
Matsuda closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Stanley gets back to full guard.
Matsuda scores with a decent looking elbow strike.#SUB#
Matsuda drops back looking for a leg! Stanley is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Stanley manages to kick Matsuda off! Matsuda jumps back into Stanley's guard. #T1#
Matsuda connects with a couple of short punches.
Stanley trying to keep a closed guard but Matsuda is proving a slippery customer.
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but Stanley is retaining full guard.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Stanley keeps moving.
Stanley 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.
Matsuda stays in close to Stanley's body and controls the position. #T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Matsuda with a flurry of punches that miss.
Matsuda loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Matsuda sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Stanley's guard.
Matsuda lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Matsuda prevents Stanley from improving his position.
Stanley is trying to maintain the position but Matsuda is very close to passing his half guard.
Matsuda is nestled in close to Stanley, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.#T3#
Stanley trying to control from the bottom.
Stanley is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
Stanley tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Stanley is defending well.
Matsuda is looking to stall here but Stanley recovers full guard.
Our spies down at at Just a bunch of gays inform us that Stanley has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?
Matsuda working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage. #T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Matsuda working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Stanley can do to turn this around?
Matsuda pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Stanley is keeping the position for now.
Matsuda works over Stanley with some ground and pound from guard.
Matsuda 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.
Stanley wants to control the position but Matsuda says "no thanks buddy" and passes to half guard.
Matsuda tries to pass to full mount but Stanley defends it.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Matsuda looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Stanley regains full guard. Nicely done.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Stanley keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda being controlled here momentarily.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R3#
Matsuda lands a jab to the nose.
The fighters circle momentarily. Stanley darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Stanley scores with a jab to the body.
Stanley misses with an uppercut.
Stanley takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda thows a left - swing and a miss!
Matsuda connects with a body shot that sends Stanley's belly button to the back.
Nice shot lands for Stanley.
Stanley keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot. #T1#
Stanley misses with an uppercut. Matsuda saw that one coming.
Stanley fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.
Roger Michael Stanley is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
A looping hook to the body misses from Stanley. Matsuda does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matsuda swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Matsuda digs a good body shot into Stanley's ribs.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Matsuda swings for the body but Stanley moves out of range.
Stanley throws a low kick but Matsuda moves out of range easily.
Matsuda on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Stanley keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.#T2#
Stanley avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Stanley cracks Matsuda with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Nice body punch from Matsuda.
Matsuda moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Stanley moves away and avoids it.
Stanley misses the shot 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!#TD#
Matsuda gets a double leg takedown into Stanley's guard.
Matsuda with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Stanley is controlling Matsuda's posture.
Stanley is continuing to stall.#T3#
Matsuda advances position into side control!
Matsuda throws a knee to the body but it doesn't do much damage.
Matsuda working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Matsuda lands a nice forearm strike.
Matsuda is chipping away with strikes.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Matsuda trying to control the position but Stanley is working away.
Stanley struggling a bit here.#T4#
Stanley is trying to avoid being dragged into an even worse position than he's already in but Matsuda is staying active.
Stanley manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Matsuda tries to pass the half guard into mount. Stanley knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Stanley is looking to improve his position.
Stanley wants to control but Matsuda is keeping busy. #SUB#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura here.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda clearly takes that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R4#
Matsuda with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Stanley to score with a decent uppercut.
Matsuda lands a jab.
Matsuda scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Stanley uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Nice straight punches there by Matsuda. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Matsuda.
Matsuda throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Matsuda just misses with a punch to the body. #T1#
A jab from Stanley misses.
Matsuda lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Matsuda throws a lazy right hand but Stanley sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#TD#
Stanley gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Stanley working a defensive guard here.
Matsuda loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Stanley lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Stanley trying to control but Matsuda is working from the bottom. #T2#
Stanley is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.#SUB#
Matsuda throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Matsuda looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Roger Michael Stanley has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Stanley postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect. #SUB#
Matsuda has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Stanley can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Stanley trying to control the position from guard on top but Matsuda is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T3#
Stanley is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.#SUB#
Matsuda has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Stanley can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Stanley trying to control but Matsuda is working from the bottom. #T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.#SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Stanley trying to control but Matsuda is working from the bottom. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Stanley wants to clinch up but Matsuda keeps it at a distance.
Matsuda is looking to counter punch.
Matsuda throws a right hand that misses
letting Stanley counter with a right hand.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Stanley missing with a left hand there. Matsuda was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Stanley throws a looping overhand right but Matsuda ducks down to avoid it. #TD#
Matsuda looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda had his way with Roger Michael Stanley in that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda'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. This is the final round!#R5#
Matsuda misses with a body punch
and Stanley counters with a stiff right hand.
Stanley throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range. #CL2#
Stanley closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Stanley lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Matsuda backwards. #CUT2#Tanaka Matsuda's cut is getting worse.
A short right from Stanley. #TD#
Matsuda successfully pulls guard.
Stanley postures up.
Stanley must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Stanley is stalling in the full guard.
Stanley trying to control but Matsuda is working from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Stanley is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.#T1##SUB2#
Stanley drops back looking for a leg! Matsuda is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Matsuda manages to kick Stanley off! Stanley jumps back into Matsuda's guard.
Matsuda trying to control the position.
Stanley trying to control the position from guard on top but Matsuda is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Stanley looking to sit in guard and control but Matsuda gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR##T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Matsuda is looking to work some ground and pound but Stanley has wrist control.
Stanley trying to keep a closed guard but Matsuda is proving a slippery customer.
Stanley avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Stanley managing to control the position.
Matsuda missing there with some ground and pound from the guard. #SUB2#
Stanley looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar. #T3#
Matsuda content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Stanley looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Matsuda working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Matsuda working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Stanley's head.
Stanley keeping full guard, as Matsuda tries to pass.
Stanley doesn't do any damage with a couple of strikes from the bottom. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.#TD#
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Matsuda was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
Matsuda is looking to take a break and control but Stanley is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #T4#
You can see the frustration on Stanley's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#SUB#
Matsuda working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
Stanley is looking to reverse the position.
Tanaka Matsuda is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Matsuda trying to control the position but Stanley is working away.
Stanley takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda showed his dominance in that final round.
Well I reckon that's a shut out for Matsuda, 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 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 50:45
Judge Percy O'Donnell scores the fight 50:45
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 50:45

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

Tanaka Matsuda retains his middleweight title!
Tanaka Matsuda seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 240     
Date:   Mar 22, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Nickel swings widly with a right hand #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Nickel's guard.
Matsuda advances to half guard.
Matsuda wants to control but Nickel is keeping him busy.
Matsuda wants to pass to mount but Nickel is defending the position.
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes.
Matsuda 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.
Nickel is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Matsuda scores with a couple of nice shots.
Matsuda thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Nickel's head.
Nickel trying to control from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Nickel wants to get back to full guard.
Nickel looks like he's trying to stand up.
Nickel tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg. #T1#
Nickel desperately trying to maintain half guard.
Nickel tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg.
Matsuda not landing any meaningful shots this time. #SUB#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Nickel has managed to free his arm - good work.
Nickel is trying to control but Matsuda passes into side control!
Matsuda is looking to take a break and control but Nickel is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Nickel is trying to improve his position.
The ground and pound from Matsuda seems to be hitting the mat more than his opponent.
Nickel is trying to control Matsuda's posture but Matsuda avoids it.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Nickel can do anything to dispel that myth.
Nickel is looking to regain half guard here but Matsuda keeps moving and retains side control.
Matsuda wants to lay and pray for a moment but Nickel keeps working.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Matsuda landing strikes.
Nickel tries to improve position but can't. #T3#
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes.
Matsuda lands a few punches from side control.
Nickel is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Matsuda off and has taken his back!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nickel has the hooks in. Matsuda is trying to push off one leg but he has to do so cautiously to avoid being submitted.
Matsuda breaks Nickel's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
Nickel wants to sweep here but Matsuda controlling him for the moment.
Matsuda missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Nickel is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Matsuda with a flurry of punches that miss.
Matsuda trying to control but Nickel is working from the bottom. #T4#
Matsuda advances position into side control!
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes.
Matsuda is working Nickel over with some ground and pound from side control.
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!#SUB#
Matsuda is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Nickel is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Nickel tries to bench press Matsuda off him but Matsuda keeps the position.
Nickel is trying to escape and get back to his feet.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nickel is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
Nickel is looking for a sweep.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Nickel looks to land a body kick but Matsuda moved away.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matsuda scores with the left hand. Nickel knows he should have avoided that one.
A big left from Nickel misses.
Matsuda throws a hook to the side of Nickel's head but Nickel sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nickel.
Matsuda takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Nickel ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
Nickel throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nickel looks to throw the jab but Matsuda is out of range.
Nickel looks to score with a jab to the body but Matsuda is just out of range.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nickel throws a low kick, looking for Matsuda's leg but Matsuda calmly moves out of range.
Nickel misses with a low kick as Matsuda jumps back.
Nickel throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Nickel takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
That kick from Nickel tenderised Matsuda's leg. Matsuda is trying to keep his angry face on.#T1#
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Nickel moves away and avoids it.
Matsuda looks to throw the jab but Nickel is out of range.
Matsuda takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Nickel looks to throw a body kick
and Matsuda counters with a nice body shot.
Nice jab there from Nickel.
Nickel tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Nickel misses with a lunging right hand #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Matsuda looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Matsuda is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nickel keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Nickel taking shots to the head.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Nickel really trying hard to get back to half guard here. #T2#
Nickel is squirming around, avoiding Matsuda's attempts to control the action.
Nickel takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
Matsuda with the ground and pound from mount.
Matsuda lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.
Nickel is looking to get back to his feet - it's going to be hard from this position.#SUB#
Matsuda is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Nickel can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.
Nickel's corner are shouting for him to stand up but that's bad cornering - how is he meant to stand up when he's mounted? He should be looking to improve his position on the ground before trying to stand back up.
Matsuda pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Nickel is desperately trying to improve his position but Matsuda has a good base and remains in mount.#T3#
Matsuda scores with a couple of good head shots there.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda scoring with strikes but Nickel is staying in there.
Matsuda trying to control but Nickel is having none of it.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Nickel can do to turn this around?
Nickel tries to lock up and control but Matsuda gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Nickel really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Matsuda. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Nickel working to try and regain half guard.
Nickel is squirming around, avoiding Matsuda's attempts to control the action.
Matsuda punishing his opponent with strikes.
Nickel is looking to improve his position but Matsuda isn't that keen on the idea.
Matsuda is still in mount, landing shots to his trapped opponent. Nickel can't stay in a position like this for much longer. #T4#
Matsuda lands a nice shot to the head.
The referee warns Nickel that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nickel is squirming around, avoiding Matsuda's attempts to control the action.
Matsuda with the ground and pound from mount.
Matsuda raining down hammerfists from mount.
Matsuda lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Nickel is wriggling around trying to escape.
Nickel really wants to buck Matsuda off and get back to his feet.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
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#
Horrible takedown attempt by Matsuda or perhaps it was just good defense by Nickel, which made it look bad.
Matsuda throws an overhand right that lands on Nickel's shoulder, as Nickel tries to avoid the shot.
Nice defenses there by Matsuda.
Nickel ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Nickel.
Nickel misses with an uppercut.
Matsuda is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Matsuda uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nickel.
Matsuda takes a swing at Nickel's ribcage but misses.
Nickel changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Nickel buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nickel throws a hook but Matsuda avoids it easily.
Matsuda was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Nickel avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Nickel flicks out a counter leg kick but Matsuda steps away.
Nickel jabs at Matsuda's body.
Nickel bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Matsuda's head.
Nickel looks to throw a body kick#TD#
and Matsuda counters with a takedown into side control.

Nickel bucks up and manages to escape back to his feet!#T1#
Matsuda lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Nice defenses there by Nickel.
Nickel waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Matsuda.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
Matsuda thows a left - swing and a miss!
Nickel lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Nickel throws a body shot but no joy.
Nickel throws a leg kick #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Nickel!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nickel is looking for a sweep.
Nickel takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
Matsuda lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Nickel down.
Matsuda controlling the position from side mount.
Matsuda in side control lands a decent elbow. #T2##SUB#
Matsuda tries for a kimura but Nickel is defending well.
Matsuda wants to control but Nickel is keeping him busy.
Matsuda postures up a little and throws a couple of hammerfists but they don't connect properly.
Matsuda has knee on belly and now moves to full mount! Trouble for Nickel!
Matsuda looking to finish Nickel with some ground and pound. This is bad for Nickel!
Matsuda can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Nickel is looking to escape.
Matsuda punishing his opponent with strikes. #T3#
Nickel is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Matsuda looking to finish Nickel with some ground and pound. This is bad for Nickel!
Nickel is trying desperately to improve position.
Matsuda raining down hammerfists from mount.
Matsuda lands a nice shot to the head. #SUB#
Matsuda wants to finish this one by submission but Nickel is holding onto his waist, trying to prevent any attacks from Matsuda.
Matsuda is in the full mount, landing strikes.
You get the feeling that Nickel really doesn't like being in this position too much. #T4#
Nickel is looking to improve his position but Matsuda isn't that keen on the idea.
A nice elbow there by Matsuda.
Matsuda raining down shots from the mount!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Matsuda landing strikes from the mount.
Matsuda working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Matsuda can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Nickel is looking to escape.
Nickel is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Nickel is squirming around, avoiding Matsuda's attempts to control the action.
Matsuda looking to finish Nickel with some ground and pound. This is bad for Nickel!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda clearly takes that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R4#
Good leg kick by Nickel.
Matsuda with a nice cross.
A big left from Nickel misses.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Matsuda swings for the body but Nickel moves out of range.
Nickel connects with a jab.
Nickel just misses with a punch to the body.
Chip Nickel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nickel.
Matsuda dives in for a single leg takedown but Nickel sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.#BC2#
Nickel's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Chip Nickel seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Matsuda displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Nickel throws out the jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nickel misses with a low kick.
Nickel tries to land a leg kick but Matsuda saw it coming and moves away.
Matsuda slips a jab from Nickel.
Matsuda with a poor takedown
and Nickel counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Matsuda just misses with a punch to the body. #T1#
Matsuda gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Nickel throws a solid leg kick but Matsuda takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Nickel.
Nickel keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
A little jabbing left from Nickel on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Nickel throws a shot to the body.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Matsuda on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Nickel misses with a body shot.
A low kick from Nickel misses
and Matsuda connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Matsuda swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Nickel does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
Nickel misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
Nickel throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Matsuda thuds his right hand into Nickel's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.#T2#
Matsuda throws a lazy right hand but Nickel sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Nickel let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Nickel bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Matsuda's head backwards.
Nickel misses with a looping right.
Nickel with a body punch. A glancing blow.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
A looping hook to the body misses from Nickel. Matsuda does a little dance to reset his feet.
Nickel misses with a straight left.
Nickel uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Chip Nickel is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Nickel keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda misses with a hook. Nickel ducked under it nicely.
Nickel looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Nickel lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Nickel changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda shoots and misses
and Nickel cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Nickel throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Nickel throws a leg kick that misses.
Nickel connects with the punch.#T3#
Matsuda looks to land a left hand but Nickel moved out of range nicely.
Matsuda misses with a lunging right hand
and Nickel counters with a low kick, right behind Matsuda 's knee.
A swing and a miss from Matsuda.
Nickel misses the body punch #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Nickel utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Nickel is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Nickel is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.
Matsuda working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Nickel's head.
Matsuda lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Matsuda missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Matsuda's corner. There ya go! There ya go! #T4#
Matsuda postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Nickel keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda is looking to work some ground and pound but Nickel has wrist control.
Nickel working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Matsuda.
Matsuda is fighting to break Nickel's control of his arms but Nickel is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
Matsuda passes into half guard.
Matsuda takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Nickel trying to control here but he's found himself mounted! Oh no!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#SUB#
Matsuda jumps to side control looking for an arm triangle but Nickel manages to avoid the submission attempt.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close fourth round but Chip Nickel 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. Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!#R5#
Nickel blocks a jab.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Nickel avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Nickel manages to avoid it.
Nickel is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Matsuda.
Nickel misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Nickel avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Nickel lands with a thumping leg kick.
Matsuda defending well as Nickel loads up on a big left hand.
Nice straight punches there by Matsuda. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Matsuda.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda keeping at a good range here, avoiding a leg kick.
Matsuda jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Matsuda looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Nickel is fending him off so far but Matsuda persists. Nope, Nickel circles away and we're back to standing.
Matsuda moves out of range of the leg kick from Nickel.
Nickel lunges at Matsuda with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Matsuda's hand. #T1#
Nickel walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Matsuda checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Nickel avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Matsuda blocks a jab.
Matsuda slips under a jab from Nickel.
Matsuda swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Nickel.
Nickel misses with a low kick.
Nickel avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Nickel connects with a good right hand that stumbles Matsuda. Matsuda circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
It seemed like Nickel was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Nickel misses with a body shot.
Nickel throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nickel lands a nice shot to the body. #T2#
A jab from Matsuda finds it's way through Nickel's defenses.
Nickel misses with a straight right.
Nickel tries to bum rush Matsuda with a series of wild strikes but Matsuda uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Nickel scores with a sloppy right hand. Matsuda should have avoided that one.
Nickel works Matsuda's body with a nice hook.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!#TD#
Matsuda closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Nickel's guard.
Matsuda is standing up over Nickel. Nickel looks to escape but Matsuda dives into side control. #REVB#
Matsuda landing strikes.
Nickel holds on tight, trying to prevent any damage.
Matsuda working the body and head with strikes.
Matsuda has knee on belly and moves into mount.
Nickel working to try and regain half guard.
Chip Nickel has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T3#
Nickel is trying to stand.#SUB#
Matsuda is controlling this nicely and is looking to make no mistakes. Nickel is trying to wiggle out of this horrible position. Nickel flips to his side and attempts to get a leg in for half guard. Matsuda anticipates the leg and manages to get behind Nickel and secures both hooks! This could be bad! Matsuda slips an arm under Nickel chin and tries to position for a rear naked choke. Matsuda has worked the choke in now and it looks tight. Matsuda is squeezing on Nickel like an anaconda would it's prey. Nickel fails to tap and has fallen unconscious! We've got ourselves a winner by way of a rear naked choke!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:37 of round 5, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda retains his middleweight title!
Tanaka Matsuda decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 236     
Date:   Mar 04, 2023
#R1#
Shipilov defending well as Matsuda loads up on a big left hand.
Matsuda lands a nice looking body shot.
Shipilov takes one to the chin there.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Shipilov.
Shipilov tries to score with a low kick but Matsuda moves his leg out of the way.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Matsuda lands with a shot to the body.
Shipilov uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Shipilov pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#TD#
Matsuda shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Matsuda stops Shipilov from getting back to his feet. #T1#
Matsuda is keen to just control but Shipilov is a slippery customer.
Shipilov looks like he's trying to stand up.
Matsuda sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Shipilov defending well though.
Matsuda thows a huge punch but Shipilov dodges it nicely. #ES2#
Shipilov manages to escape and get back to his feet!
We've been hearing reports that Matsuda has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Matsuda swings for the body but Shipilov moves out of range.
Shipilov 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.
Shipilov moves into range and connects with a jab.
Matsuda changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Shipilov looks to throw a body kick#TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Shipilov's guard.
Matsuda landing with the ground and pound.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Matsuda accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand. #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!
Shipilov wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Matsuda postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Matsuda not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Shipilov wants to stand but Matsuda is controlling the position. #ES2#
Shipilov wriggles free and stands up.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Shipilov throws a quick head kick that skims the top of Matsuda's head.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Shipilov misses with a wild body shot. #TD#
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Shipilov napping and manages to drive through into side control!#T3#
Shipilov wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!
Matsuda misses with the ground and pound.
Matsuda prevents Shipilov from escaping the position.
Matsuda tries to advance to mount but can't.
Matsuda is working hard here to advance position.
An elbow from Matsuda crashes against the mat.
Shipilov wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda drags him back down.
Shipilov is looking to get back to his feet here but Matsuda is keeping cool and he's managed to take Shipilov's back.
Shipilov is trying to get back to his feet but Matsuda has full control of the position and if anything, Shipilov has just worked his way into a worse spot.#T4#
Shipilov staying busy and making it hard for Matsuda to control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Shipilov is trying to get back to his feet but Matsuda has full control of the position and if anything, Shipilov has just worked his way into a worse spot.
Shipilov is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.
Matsuda is landing with strikes from the back. #SUB#
Matsuda working for the choke.
Shipilov wants to get back to his feet. #SUB#
Shipilov preventing the rear naked choke attempt from Matsuda.
Shipilov is trying to stand back up.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
That's time! Matsuda's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Matsuda jabs Shipilov right on the nose. Shipilov blinks but takes it well.
Shipilov looks to throw the jab but Matsuda is out of range.
Shipilov wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Shipilov misses with an uppercut
and Matsuda counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Shipilov displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Matsuda.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#TD#
Matsuda darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.#T1#
Matsuda throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Shipilov taking some punishment here, with Matsuda in his half guard.
Matsuda moves nicely into side control.
Matsuda scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Shipilov to see if he's OK.
Shipilov pushes Matsuda away and creates a bit of space to escape. He's almost out here... but no, Matsuda gets a good hold of his legs and remains firmly in side control.#SUB#
Matsuda is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Shipilov knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Matsuda looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Shipilov is avoiding damage well.
Shipilov wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda drags him back down.
Matsuda working the body and head with strikes.
Shipilov wants to get back to his feet.#T2##SUB#
Matsuda is working for what looks like an arm triangle here. Shipilov is trying to escape and Matsuda transitions quickly into an armbar! He's slapped it on tight and Shipilov is forced to tap! Nice work there by Matsuda! Very nice indeed!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:22 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda retains his middleweight title!
After winning the bout, Tanaka Matsuda thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 231     
Date:   Feb 15, 2023
#R1#
Legions misses with a head kick.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Legions.
Legions misses with a wild combination.
Matsuda avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Matsuda lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Legions at a distance.
Legions fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.#TD#
Matsuda throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Legions tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Matsuda is in Legions's guard.
Matsuda trying to control but Legions is working from the bottom.
Matsuda stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Legions swivels though and keeps the full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Legions keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Legions is trying to control the position from the bottom. #T1#
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Legions is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
Legions working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Matsuda.
Legions wants to sweep but no luck.
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but Legions is retaining full guard.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Legions is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Legions throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Matsuda connects with a body shot.#TD#
Matsuda gets the takedown into side control.
Matsuda lands an elbow. #T2##SUB#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Legions has escaped the position, nice work there.
Legions stops Matsuda from passing to mount.
Legions wants to control but Matsuda postures up.#SUB#
Matsuda in side control, working for a kimura. He's got hold of an arm and he's torquing it... Legions is tapping! That's the end of the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:51 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda retains his middleweight title!
Tanaka Matsuda seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 227     
Date:   Jan 28, 2023
#R1#
Matsuda throws a lazy right hand but Nickel sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Nickel moves out of range.
Nickel scores with a hook to the body. Matsuda takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Nickel takes a swing at Matsuda's ribcage but misses.
And Matsuda tries to counter it with a takedown but Nickel pushes his down on his head and steps out.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Matsuda 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.
Matsuda swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Nickel.
Nickel misses with a shot to the body #TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a single leg into guard. Nickel didn't expect that. #ES#
Nickel kicks Matsuda off and gets to his feet.
Matsuda moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Nickel takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Matsuda scores with a shot to the body.
Nickel gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Matsuda walks into a left hand.
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
Nickel ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
Matsuda feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Nickels jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Matsuda throws an overhand right that lands on Nickel's shoulder, as Nickel tries to avoid the shot. #T1#
Nickel jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Nickel digs a good body shot into Matsuda's ribs.
Chip Nickel is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Nickel.
Matsuda takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Nickel misses with a low kick.
Nickel fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.
A telegraphed right hand from Nickel misses the target. #TD2#
Matsuda shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Nickel is controlling Matsuda's position as best he can from this difficult position.
Nickel trying to control here.
Matsuda thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Nickel's head.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T2#
Nickel moves into full guard. #SUB2#
Matsuda drops back looking for a leg! Nickel is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Nickel manages to kick Matsuda off! Matsuda jumps back into Nickel's guard.
Nickel preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Matsuda working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Nickel's head.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Nickel is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Matsuda has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Matsuda throws a big right hand that misses. #T3#
Matsuda won't allow Nickel to sweep him here.
Nickel controlling the position.
Matsuda passes Nickel's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Nickel on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Nickel tries to get out of the position.
Nickel is pressing down on Matsuda's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Nickel is adopting a defensive guard.
Matsuda won't allow Nickel to sweep him here.
Nickel wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda passes into half guard.
Matsuda working Nickel over with strikes.
Matsuda lands with a punch from half guard.
Nickel is trying to maintain the position but Matsuda is very close to passing his half guard.#T4#
Nickel pushes Matsuda off but Matsuda dives into side control.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
The referee tells the fighters to keep busy.
Matsuda landing a few strikes.
Matsuda trying to control the action but Nickel is working from the bottom.
Matsuda throws an elbow but Nickel slips to the side and avoids it well.
Nickel is looking for a sweep.
Matsuda tries to score with some ground and pound. Nickel controls his posture well this time though and the shots don't do any damage.
Matsuda wants to control but Nickel is keeping him busy.
Matsuda misses with a strike but at least he's keeping busy, looking to cause some damage - that will still help him when it comes to the judges scorecards.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Nice shot lands for Matsuda.
Matsuda throws a hook but Nickel blocks it.
Matsuda throws an off balance right hand
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Nickel misses with a looping left.
Nickel tries to land a leg kick but Matsuda saw it coming and moves away.
Nickel leaves Matsuda with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Nickel dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Matsuda. That did some damage!
Nickel throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Nickel missing with a left hand there. Matsuda was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Nickel.
Chip Nickel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda thows a left - swing and a miss!
Nickel misses with a low kick.
Nickel takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Nickel with the inside leg kick. #T1#
Matsuda shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Nickel throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nickel blocks a jab.
Matsuda misses with a hook. Nickel ducked under it nicely.
Nickel uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Matsuda looks to land a right hand but Nickel moved out of range.
Nickel is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.#TD2#
Matsuda manages to get an easy takedown there - catching Nickel on his heels. He'll look to pass Nickel's guard now, I'm sure.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nickel tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Nickel keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Nickel is keeping the position.
Nickel is looking to stand back up but Matsuda counters by passing into half guard. Oops... bit sloppy there by Nickel.
Matsuda working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that. #T2#
Matsuda is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Nickel trying to control but Matsuda postures up.
Nickel is looking to get full guard. It looks like he might be successful but at the last minute Matsuda jumps into side control!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nickel is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
Nickel struggling a bit here.
Nickel tries to bench press Matsuda off him but Matsuda keeps the position. #T3#
Matsuda throws an elbow but Nickel slips to the side and avoids it well.
Matsuda lands a few punches from side control.
Nickel manages to work his way to half guard, despite Matsuda's best efforts.
Matsuda working over Nickel with some ground and pound. Nickel looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Matsuda is trying to control the action in half guard but Nickel is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Matsuda slows the pace down in half guard.
Matsuda missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Matsuda trying to control the pace.
Nickel looks like he's trying to stand up. #T4#
Nickel is in trouble now - Matsuda has advanced to mount!
Nickel is bucking up trying to escape but Matsuda cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
Matsuda landing shots from mount.
Nickel tries to lock up and control but Matsuda gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Matsuda wants to control the pace but Nickel is squirming around nicely.
Nickel tries to lock up and control but Matsuda gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Matsuda with shots to the head and body - Nickel looks very uncomfortable down there.
Matsuda connects with a couple of good shots from mount.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nickel is looking to improve his position but Matsuda isn't that keen on the idea.
Nickel tries to hold on but Matsuda postures up.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action.#R3#
Nickel misses with a low kick.
Matsuda lands with a cross.
Nickel dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Nickel.
Nickel throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Matsuda feints the counter takedown.
Nickel throws a right hand that misses
and Matsuda counters with a nice uppercut.
Matsuda throws out a loose jab but Nickel uses good head movement to avoid it.
Nickel throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Matsuda sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Matsuda has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
The fighters circling - Matsuda throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Nickel connects with an inside leg kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nickel throws a poor cross that misses #TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Matsuda cracks Nickel with a solid left hand.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nickel wants to sweep here but Matsuda controlling him for the moment. #T1#
Matsuda postures up and lands a big shot to Nickel's brow.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing.
Nickel is controlling Matsuda's posture.
Matsuda advances position into side control!
Matsuda working the ground and pound but Nickel is defending the strikes.
Nickel defending against the ground and pound.
Matsuda working away.
Matsuda cracks Nickel with an elbow. That is naaassty.
Nickel is trying to escape and get back to his feet.#T2##SUB2#
Matsuda is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Nickel is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Matsuda throwing shots but missing, from side control. #SUB2#
Matsuda is trying to get an arm triangle but Nickel is defending well.
Nickel is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Matsuda asserts his dominance and retains side control.
Nickel struggling a bit here.#T3#
Nickel is trying to get back to half guard.
Matsuda scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Nickel to see if he's OK.
Matsuda working the ground and pound.
Matsuda working away.
Nickel on the wrong end of some ground and pound.
Matsuda taking a breather here.
Nickel is trying to get back to his feet.#SUB2#
Matsuda is in a dominant position here, looking for a kimura. Nickel looks calm but he's in trouble here. Matsuda gets his leg over his opponent's head and yanks on the arm. Nickel is tapping like a morse code operator on the titanic! SOS! SOS! Matsuda lets go of the hold and Nickel can pop his arm back in it's socket.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:56 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda is the new middleweight champion!
Tanaka Matsuda seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 218     
Date:   Dec 28, 2022
#R1#
Matsuda swings for the body but Kazuma moves out of range.
Matsuda shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Kazuma pinned against the cage. Kazuma gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
A slow jab from Kazuma misses its intended target.
A jab from Kazuma misses.
Kazuma throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Matsuda has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Gunner's School of Combat in the buildup to the fight.
Nice defenses there by Matsuda.
Kazuma misses with a hook.#TD#
Matsuda looking to score a takedown here. Kazuma is defending well but Matsuda drives through and ends up in Kazuma's guard.
Matsuda trying to control but Kazuma is working from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda is looking to work some ground and pound but Kazuma has wrist control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda prevents Kazuma from getting back to his feet.
Matsuda trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat. #T1#
Matsuda throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Kazuma works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Matsuda keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Kazuma's head.
Kazuma looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Kazuma wants to stand up but Matsuda is controlling him.
Matsuda content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Kazuma is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Matsuda is controlling him.
Matsuda landing some decent shots from guard.
Matsuda stops Kazuma from standing up.
Kazuma wants to get back to his feet but he's too absorbed in his own little project and Matsuda manages to pass to side control. #SUB#
Matsuda wants to work for an arm triangle but Kazuma is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt. #T2#
Matsuda is pressing down on Kazuma's thigh, looking to free his foot. Kazuma is holding on for now.
Matsuda stops Kazuma from getting back to his feet. #SUB#
Matsuda seems like he's working for an arm triangle here. He's freed his trapped foot and he's rotating nicely. Kazuma is in big trouble! He's tapping out! This one is aaaaaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:51 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Arm Triangle). Tanaka Matsuda!
A relieved looking Tanaka Matsuda 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: Sucker Punch Pro Series 212     
Date:   Dec 07, 2022
#R1#
Nickel getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Nickel throws a shot from downtown. Matsuda moves away and avoids it.
Nickel throws a jab when Matsuda was well out of range.
Matsuda was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Nickel takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Matsuda misses with a hook
and Nickel makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
No luck for Matsuda with that takedown attempt.
Nickel takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Nickel waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Matsuda.
Matsuda looks to score with a jab to the body but Nickel is just out of range.
Nickel throws a shot from downtown. Matsuda moves away and avoids it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda's corner calls for a 1-2. Matsuda obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Nickel lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Nickel attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Nickel.
Nickel throws a lazy uppercut #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Nickel's guard.

Nickel manages to escape and get back to his feet. #T1#
Chip Nickel is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Matsuda on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Nickel. Nickel obviously looking to wear him down. #TD#
Matsuda drives through with a takedown into Nickel's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
Matsuda working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Nickel's head.
Matsuda showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Nickel is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Nickel is on top in guard. #REVB#
Matsuda looking for a sweep. Not yet Matsuda, not yet.
Nickel trying to stand up but can't free himself from Matsuda's guard.#SUB#
Matsuda has his foot on Nickel's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Nickel works his way back into a safe position though.#T2#
Nickel would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard.
Nickel wants to control from the top but Matsuda keeps moving.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Nickel wants to stand but Matsuda is controlling his posture from full guard.
Matsuda wants to sweep but no luck.
Matsuda is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Matsuda can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Nickel controls the pace.#SUB#
Nickel avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #SU2#
Nickel stands up from guard. Let's bang! #T3#
Nickel scores with a spinning back kick!
Matsuda looks to land a right hand but Nickel moved out of range.
Nickel swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Nickel connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Matsuda's hands.
Nickel loads up on a big right hand but Matsuda slips the punch.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Matsuda has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Nickel finds it's way round the side to connect with Matsuda's head.
Matsuda lands with a good body shot.
Nickel lands with a shot to the body.
Matsuda fails with the takedown
and Nickel counters with a leg kick that reverborates around the arena.
Matsuda tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nickel was well out of range. Poor timing from Matsuda.
Matsuda goes for a double leg but Nickel avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Nickel continues to drive forward.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Nickel working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Nickel swings wildly with an uppercut but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
Nickel misses with a body punch. #T4#
Matsuda prevents a body shot from Nickel. #BC#
Matsuda's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
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!
Matsuda fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Matsuda throws the left hand but Nickel avoids the punch easily.
Nickel pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Nickel avoids it well and moves away.
Nickel misses the shot to the body.
A telegraphed right hand from Matsuda misses the target.
Nickel keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Nickel throws a leg kick
and Matsuda cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
A jab from Nickel finds it's way through Matsuda's defenses. #TD#
Matsuda shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Nickel's guard.
Nickel is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.
Matsuda is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Chip Nickel dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Matsuda changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Nickel lands a head shot.
Nickel lands the left hand.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Matsuda drops his hands momentarily and Nickel takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Matsuda is looking to wear down Nickel with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Nickel throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Nickel throws a big shot that misses.
Matsuda checks the leg kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nickel throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matsuda ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Nickel has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Nickel misses with a hook to the body
and Matsuda counters with a straight right hand.
Nickel throws a jab when Matsuda was well out of range.
Matsuda is looking to counter punch.
A jab lands there for Nickel.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.#T1#
That kick from Nickel tenderised Matsuda's leg. Matsuda is trying to keep his angry face on.
Nickel with a body punch. A glancing blow. #TD#
Matsuda drives through with a takedown into Nickel's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
Matsuda scoring with some ground and pound.
Matsuda scoring with punches to the head and body.
Matsuda with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Matsuda throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Matsuda won't allow Nickel to sweep him here.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Nickel keeps moving.
Nickel wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now. #ES2#
Nickel pushes Matsuda off and scrambles back to his feet. #T2#
Matsuda throws a body punch but Nickel moves out of range.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Nickel lands a leg kick that knocks Matsuda off balance momentarily.
Chip Nickel seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Nickel misses the body punch
and Matsuda counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Chip Nickel seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nickel misses the jab.
Nice jab there from Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with a jab to the body
and Nickel counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Matsuda tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nickel was well out of range. Poor timing from Matsuda.
Nickel swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
A jab from Nickel does it's job there.
Matsuda slips a jab from Nickel.
Nickel moves out of range as Matsuda strikes.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Nickel.
Matsuda sizes up Nickel with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Matsuda uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nickel.
Nickel has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Matsuda finds it's way round the side to connect with Nickel's head. #T3#
Nickel throws out a loose jab but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
A big left from Nickel misses.
Nickel ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Nickel, as that shot connected.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Nickel.
Nickel turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Matsuda throws a hook but Nickel avoids it easily.
Matsuda misses with a looping right.
Nickel gets cracked there but stands up to it. #TD#
Matsuda fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Nickel to the ground. Matsuda is now in Nickel's guard.
Nickel is looking to stand back up but Matsuda counters by passing into half guard. Oops... bit sloppy there by Nickel. #REVB#
Matsuda working Nickel over with strikes.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Nickel looks like he's trying to stand up. #T4#
Nickel wants to control but Matsuda is keeping busy.
Matsuda drops an elbow to the side of Nickel's head.
Nickel trying to control but Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears. #SUB#
Matsuda is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Nickel doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Matsuda.
Nickel is looking for a sweep. Matsuda is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Chip Nickel will probably get the nod - 10:9.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R3##TD#
Matsuda decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.#SUB#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura but Nickel is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Matsuda to get the leverage.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but Nickel defending well.
Nice strikes from Matsuda there.
Nickel is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #SUB#
Matsuda is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Nickel is just riding it out for now. Matsuda eventually gives up the hold.
Matsuda throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda drops an elbow to the side of Nickel's head.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#T1#
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Nickel is defending well.
Nickel is trying to control but can't.
Matsuda working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that. #SUB#
Matsuda wants to work for an arm triangle but Nickel is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Matsuda passes to side control.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Matsuda in side control, throwing shots but Nickel defends.
Who's going to make the next move?
Matsuda working the body and head with strikes. #T2#
Nickel is trying to control Matsuda's posture but Matsuda avoids it.
Matsuda tries to advance to mount but Nickel denies him.
Nickel is looking to regain half guard here but Matsuda keeps moving and retains side control.
Matsuda wants to control but Nickel is keeping him busy.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Matsuda tries for a kimura but Nickel is defending well. #T3#
Matsuda working away.
Nickel taking punishment in the form of punches.
Matsuda staying calm.
Nickel is trying to control Matsuda's posture but Matsuda avoids it.
Nickel is looking for a sweep.
Nickel prevents Matsuda from moving into mount.
Nickel takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well. #T4##SUB#
Matsuda wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Nickel, who protects the arm well.
Matsuda cracks Nickel with an elbow. That is naaassty.
Matsuda connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Nickel some visible discomfort. #SUB#
Matsuda wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Nickel, who protects the arm well. #SUB#
Matsuda is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Nickel knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Check out the look on Matsuda's face as he threw that strike - that's one determined fighter!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda clearly takes that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R4#
Nickel doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Nickel scores with a body shot.
Matsuda fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Nickel bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Nickel steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
A lazy body kick from Nickel #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Nickel's guard.
Nickel utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Matsuda lands a couple of digs.
Matsuda postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Nickel really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Matsuda. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Nickel wants to sweep here but Matsuda controlling him for the moment.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Matsuda accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand. #T1#
Matsuda keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Nickel's head.
Nickel wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Nickel can do anything to dispel that myth.
Matsuda postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Matsuda works over Nickel with some ground and pound from guard.
Nickel has momentary wrist control but Matsuda slips an elbow through the middle.
Matsuda pushing down on Nickel's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Matsuda throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Nickel has hold of Matsuda's hands but Matsuda slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Nickel wants to improve his position but Matsuda is controlling well.
Nickel is trying to stand back up but Matsuda is controlling him #T2#
Nickel is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Matsuda scores with a couple of nice shots.
Nickel is looking to improve his position.
Matsuda 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.
Nickel controlling the position for now.
Matsuda is looking to advance position but Nickel won't allow it.
Matsuda working Nickel over with strikes.
Nickel is trying to control but can't.
Nickel tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.
Matsuda working over Nickel with some ground and pound. Nickel looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#T3#
Matsuda lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Nickel tries to kick Matsuda off but Matsuda keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
Matsuda passes to side control.
Nickel is trying to improve his position.
Nickel is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Matsuda asserts his dominance and retains side control.
Matsuda is putting a hurting on Nickel here, landing some big shots from side control.
Nickel is positioning himself to get back to half guard. #SUB#
Matsuda is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Nickel knows the correct defense though, so he's OK. #T4#
Nickel is looking to reverse the position.
Matsuda works a knee to the body and follows up with a nice elbow to the head.
Nickel can't do much from the bottom here.
Nickel is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Matsuda off and has taken his back!
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Matsuda staying busy and making it hard for Nickel to control.
Matsuda rolls and manages to get back to half guard. Nicely done.
Nickel tries to stand but can't do so whilst Matsuda controls his leg.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda had his way with Chip Nickel in that round.
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. The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!#R5#
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nickel.
Nickel ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Matsuda moves away.
Matsuda checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Matsuda avoids the body shot from Nickel.
Nickel throws a leg kick but Matsuda checks it.
Nickel dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Nickel takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Matsuda takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Nice body punch from Matsuda.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nickel steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Nickel throws a body shot but no joy.
Matsuda changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Nickel tries to avoid it but Matsuda manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Nickel to the ground. Nickel escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Matsuda walks into a straight right hand from Nickel.
Matsuda throws a lazy right hand but Nickel sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#T1#
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt - Nickel sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Nickel throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range.
Nickel scores with a body shot.
Matsuda dives in and grabs Nickel's left leg, looking for a takedown. Nickel pushes down on Matsuda's head and hops out.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Nickel lands with a good body shot.
Nickel connects with a leg kick.
Matsuda on the wrong end of a nice hook.
A leg kick checked by Matsuda.
Nickel moves into range and connects with a jab.
Nickel lands with an overhand left.
Matsuda lands a really nice looking cross but Nickel seems unphased.
Matsuda misses with a jab to the body
and Nickel counters with an inside leg kick. #T2#
Matsuda slips a jab from Nickel.
Matsuda doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Nickel counters with a straight right hand.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Matsuda takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Matsuda takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Matsuda shoots in and drives through. Nickel sprawls well.
Matsuda throws a right hand that misses
and Nickel counters with a stiff right hand.
Matsuda takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Nickel misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Matsuda was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Matsuda misses with a hook.
Matsuda throws a poor cross that misses
and Nickel counters with a leg kick.
Nickel scores with a body shot.
Nickel scores with a hook to the body. Matsuda takes a step back and tries to catch his breath. #T3#
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Matsuda throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Nickel sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Matsuda scores with a body shot.
Matsuda looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Matsuda blocks a jab.
Nickel misses with a low kick as Matsuda jumps back.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
Nickel connects with a crisp jab.
Nickel slips under a jab.
Matsuda has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Matsuda there as he acknowledges the shot.
Nickel comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Nickel throws a nice outside leg kick.
Matsuda is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Nickel misses with an uppercut. #T4#
Nickel misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Nickel thuds a left hand into Matsuda's body.
Nickel lands a leg kick that knocks Matsuda off balance momentarily.
Matsuda connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Matsuda has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Matsuda there as he acknowledges the shot.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda's corner calls for a 1-2. Matsuda obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Nickel defending well as Matsuda loads up on a big left hand.
Nickel throws an ugly left hook that misses
enabling Matsuda to counter with a crisp jab.
Nickel throws an off balance right hand
letting Matsuda counter with a right hand.
Nickel takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Nickel motions for Matsuda to come forward. Nickel throws a leg kick but it misses it's target.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Matsuda is defended easily by Nickel.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Yasuomi Hirokawa scores the fight 47:48
Judge Shirou Masuda scores the fight 47:48
Judge Ren Mimura scores the fight 47:48

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Chip Nickel!

Chip Nickel is the new middleweight champion!
Chip Nickel thanked the fans post fight for their support.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 206     
Date:   Nov 23, 2022
#R1#
Spratt throws a big shot that misses.
Matsuda throws a big shot that misses.
Matsuda missing with a left hand there. Spratt was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Spratt loads up on a big right hand but Matsuda slips the punch.
Nice jab there from Spratt.
Matsuda uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Spratt.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Matsuda has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Gunner's School of Combat in the buildup to the fight.
Jack Spratt seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Spratt moves away.
Spratt 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.
Matsuda throws a lazy uppercut
letting Spratt counter with a right hand.
Spratt misses the shot to the body.
An attempted straight right counter from Matsuda misses the target.
Matsuda moves out of range as Spratt strikes.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Spratt doesn't seem bothered though.
Spratt throws out a loose jab but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
Matsuda tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Spratt was well out of range. Poor timing from Matsuda.
Spratt takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Spratt with a body punch. A glancing blow. #T1#
Spratt misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown but Spratt shows good takedown defense.
Spratt avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Spratt is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Matsuda misses the jab.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut. Spratt saw that one coming.
Spratt is looking to clinch.
Good leg kick by Spratt.
Spratt misses with a hook to the body #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Spratt is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
Matsuda missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Spratt keeps moving. #T2#
Matsuda scoring with punches to the head and body.
Matsuda throws a big right hand that misses.
Spratt is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Matsuda makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Spratt is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Matsuda scoring with some ground and pound.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Spratt keeps moving.
Spratt looking to control. #T3##SUB2#
Spratt looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Matsuda distracts Spratt with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Spratt keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Spratt working a defensive guard here.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda chips away with some ground and pound.
Spratt is trying to control the position but Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda scoring with some ground and pound. #T4#
Spratt is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Matsuda accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Spratt is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Jack Spratt is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Spratt throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
Spratt connects with a body shot that sends Matsuda's belly button to the back.
Spratt with a hook.
Matsuda throws a hook to the side of Spratt's head but Spratt sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Spratt swings widly with a right hand #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Ground and pound from Matsuda.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Spratt tries to kick Matsuda off but Matsuda keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
Matsuda is trying to control the action in half guard but Spratt is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Matsuda thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
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 Tanaka Matsuda will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Matsuda.
Matsuda swings for the body but Spratt moves out of range.
Spratt wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Nice uppercut lands for Spratt. That snapped Matsuda's head back.
Spratt takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Spratt takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Matsuda tries to move into range but Spratt moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Nice defenses there by Spratt.
Matsuda throws a hook to the side of Spratt's head but Spratt sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Spratt throws out a counter right but Matsuda avoids it with no problem.
Matsuda slips under a jab.
Spratt misses with a looping right.
Matsuda feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Spratts jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Matsuda misses the body punch
and Spratt cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Spratt misses with a wild body shot. #T1##TD#
Matsuda gets a double leg takedown into Spratt's guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Spratt looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Matsuda stands up over Spratt, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses.
Spratt is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
Matsuda makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Spratt keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Matsuda working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Spratt's head.#T2#
Spratt trying to keep a closed guard but Matsuda is proving a slippery customer.
Spratt keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda postures up in Spratt's guard and throws a big left but Spratt blocks it.
Matsuda missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Matsuda landing some decent shots from guard.
Matsuda is looking to pass into half guard but Spratt pushes him away with his feet and jumps on top - now Spratt is in guard.#REVB##T3#
Matsuda wants to sweep but no luck.
Spratt looking to pass the guard.
Matsuda tries to land a sweep but no joy. #SUB#
Matsuda looking for a guillotine here but Spratt defends easily.
Spratt preventing the sweep. #SUB#
Matsuda looking for a guillotine here but Spratt defends easily. #T4#
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.#SUB#
Spratt avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Spratt won't allow Matsuda to sweep him here. #SU2#
Spratt stands up from Matsuda's guard - Spratt perhaps looking for a knockout.
Spratt stuns Matsuda with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Spratt fakes a head shot and lands one 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 Tanaka Matsuda will probably get the nod.
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#
Matsuda jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Spratt swings widly with a right hand
enabling Matsuda to counter with a crisp jab.
Matsuda takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Spratt thows a left - swing and a miss!
Spratt lands with a right hand.
Spratt scores with a decent looking hook.
Spratt looks to land a right hand but Matsuda moved out of range.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Spratt takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Spratt misses with a looping right.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Spratt lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Matsuda takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Spratt moves away and avoids it.
A bone on bone clash there as Matsuda blocks the leg kick.
Matsuda works the jab nicely.#T1#
Spratt misses with a straight left.
Nice defenses there by Matsuda.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
A good leg kick by Spratt.
Spratt feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Matsudas jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Spratt misses with a body shot.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Matsuda checks a leg kick.
Matsuda throws an overhand right that lands on Spratt's shoulder, as Spratt tries to avoid the shot.
Spratt connects with a looping right hand.
Spratt ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
Spratt misses the jab.
Spratt misses with a low kick as Matsuda jumps back.
Spratt thumps Matsuda with a low kick.
Matsuda fails with the takedown.#T2#
Spratt avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Matsuda slips a jab from Spratt.
Spratt lands a right hook to the body.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda dodges the punch combination from Spratt.
Matsuda walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Matsuda looks to throw the jab but Spratt is out of range.
Matsuda pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Spratt lands a jab to the head.
Spratt throws a right hand that misses
and Spratt takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Spratt connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Matsuda momentarily. #T3#
Spratt throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Spratt.
Spratt scores with a jab to the jaw.
Matsuda looks to score with a jab to the body but Spratt is just out of range.
Spratt scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Spratt.
Spratt takes a swing at Matsuda's ribcage but misses.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Spratt is quick to defend against it.
Spratt avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Spratt swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.#TD#
Matsuda 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.

Spratt has scooted to the edge of the canvas and used the cage to get back to his feet. Matsuda has stuck on his opponent and is forcing him back against the cage.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
A head punch on the inside from Spratt fails to land.
Spratt working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
A right handed body shot lands from Matsuda.
Spratt misses with a punch to the body. #T4#
Spratt swings wildly with an uppercut but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
Matsuda keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Spratt's efforts to push away.
Matsuda lands a shot to the body.
Spratt working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Spratt tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Spratt lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Matsuda backwards.
Spratt throws a punch but it's blocked by Matsuda. #BC2#
Spratt breaks from the clinch.
Spratt uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Spratt fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Matsuda is out of range.
Matsuda slips under a jab.
Matsuda moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Jack Spratt seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Spratt with a nice calf kick.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jack Spratt really dominated that round.
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.#R4#
Spratt walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Spratt stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Spratt wants it to stay on the feet.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Spratt.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Spratt looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Spratt listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
A swing and a miss from Matsuda.
It seemed like Spratt was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Spratt throws a big shot that misses.
Matsuda looks to throw the jab but Spratt is out of range.
Spratt now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Matsuda lands with a shot to the body.
Spratt throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda scores with a hook to the body. Spratt takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Matsuda looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Spratt defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Matsuda.
Spratt misses with a left hand
and Matsuda counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Spratt looks to land a right hand but Matsuda moved out of range.
Matsuda swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.#T1#
A low kick lands for Spratt.
Spratt throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Spratt slips the punch.
A telegraphed right hand from Spratt misses the target.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Spratt throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Matsuda.
Spratt misses with a shot to the body
and Matsuda counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Matsuda throws a looping overhand right but Spratt ducks down to avoid it.
Spratt misses the shot to the body.
Spratt walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Matsuda checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
Spratt changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Spratt connects with a jab.
Matsuda misses the jab.#T2#
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Spratt misses with a leg kick.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Spratt lands with a hook. Matsuda tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Spratt uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Matsuda has time to react.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Spratt throws an ugly left hook that misses #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into side control. Spratt won't be happy with that. #SUB#
Matsuda thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Matsuda in side control lands a decent elbow.
Spratt tries to control but end up mounted... ooooh, that's bad.
Spratt wants to try and get back to his feet.
A nice elbow there by Matsuda.#T3#
Matsuda tries to control but Spratt wriggling away.
Matsuda raining down hammerfists from mount.#SUB#
Matsuda with some aggressive grappling here. He's looking for submissions here, rather than waiting for the opportunity to counter.
Spratt working to try and regain half guard.
Spratt is not a happy chappy… he wants out of there.
Matsuda working the ground and pound effectively. #T4#
BOOM! Matsuda connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Spratt working to try and regain half guard.
Matsuda lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.
Matsuda working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Matsuda won't let Spratt get back to his feet... He wants to keep the fight where it is for now.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Matsuda looking to control but Spratt is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Spratt is looking to get to half guard.
Matsuda takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda had his way with Jack Spratt in that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. And we move into the final round!#R5#
Matsuda swings for the body but Spratt moves out of range.
Spratt ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Matsuda moves away.
Matsuda is looking to counter punch.
Spratt scores with a jab to the body.
No luck for Matsuda with that takedown attempt.
Spratt misses with a lunging right hand #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Spratt's guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Spratt escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Matsuda gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Matsuda pushes down on Spratt's leg and manages to get into half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda wants to lay and pray for a moment but Spratt keeps working. #T1#
Spratt taking some punishment here, with Matsuda in his half guard.
Matsuda looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Spratt with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Spratt is looking to control Matsuda's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Spratt avoid being mounted?
Matsuda working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.
Matsuda is looking to take a break and control but Spratt is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Spratt wants to get back to his feet.
Matsuda seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Jack Spratt has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Matsuda wants to control but Spratt is keeping him busy.
Matsuda seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Matsuda lands a nice short elbow.
Matsuda seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime. #ES2#
Spratt kicks Matsuda off and gets back to his feet.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Spratt gets off balance looking for a body kick#TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Matsuda scores with a couple of good hammerfists.#T3#
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes.
Spratt is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
Matsuda scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Spratt trying to control but Matsuda postures up. #SUB#
Matsuda is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg. #SUB#
Matsuda seems to be working for a kimura but Spratt defends the submission attempt.#T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Spratt slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.#SUB2#
Spratt is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Matsuda defends well.
Matsuda chips away with some ground and pound.
Tanaka Matsuda is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Spratt trying to punch from his back but it's not doing any damage.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 49:46
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 49:46
Judge Percy O'Donnell scores the fight 49:46

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

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

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 201     
Date:   Nov 06, 2022
#R1#
Nice straight punches there by Matsuda. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Matsuda.
Garcia scores with a hook to the body. Matsuda takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Matsuda avoids the body shot from Garcia.
Matsuda punishes Garcia's body with a nice straight punch.
Matsuda takes a jab right on the kisser. #CUT#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda walks into a stiff left hand from Garcia.
Matsuda misses with a body shot
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Garcia throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Matsuda sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Matsuda wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Garcia misses with a wild body shot.
Matsuda dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Garcia lands a lovely overhand right.
Garcia uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda. #TD2#
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
Garcia wants to control the action here but instead Matsuda manages to pass to full mount! #T1#
Matsuda prevents Garcia from getting the reversal.
Garcia is working hard here to advance position.
Matsuda raining down hammerfists from mount.
Matsuda raining down shots from the mount!
Matsuda prevents Garcia from getting the reversal.
Matsuda avoids the attempt from Garcia to control.
Matsuda landing strikes from the mount and Garcia is in trouble!
Matsuda lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Garcia regains half guard.
Matsuda missing with the ground and pound from half guard. #T2##SUB2#
Matsuda is working for a submission here. He's got hold of the far side arm and he's looking for a kimura. He's cranking on the arm and he's got it! Garcia is tapping out! Ouch, that looked like it hurt!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:19 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda is the new middleweight champion!
A very excited looking Tanaka Matsuda 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.
Mickey Garcia spoke after the fight, saying 'Can't believe the commission let me fight with Hep C...'.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 191     
Date:   Oct 08, 2022
#R1#
Matsuda tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Gulf was well out of range. Poor timing from Matsuda.
Matsuda fails with a takedown attempt.
Gulf ducks right into an uppercut from Matsuda.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Gulf.
Gulf swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Gulf uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
A quick step to the side and Gulf tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matsuda misses with a hook. Gulf ducked under it nicely. #T1#
Matsuda tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Gulf was well out of range. Poor timing from Matsuda.
Gulf leaves Matsuda with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Gulf closes the distance but Matsuda moves to the side #TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Matsuda. #SUB#
Gulf looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Matsuda passes into side control.
Matsuda trying to control the position but Gulf is working away.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Gulf haven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.
Gulf is trying to work for a sweep but Matsuda has mounted him!#T2#
Gulf working to try and regain half guard.
Matsuda with good strikes from the mount here!
Matsuda landing shots from mount.
Gulf tries to reverse the position but Matsuda maintains control.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Gulf is working hard here to advance position.
Matsuda raining down shots from the mount!
Matsuda has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Gulf is trying to escape the mount.
Matsuda can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Gulf is looking to escape. #T3#
Matsuda connects with a couple of good shots from mount.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Gulf is looking to get to half guard.
Gulf sneaks a leg under to get to half guard.
Matsuda lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears. #SUB2#
Matsuda 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.
Gulf trying to control from the bottom. #T4##SUB2#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Gulf defends it well.
Gulf slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.#SUB#
Gulf has his foot on Matsuda's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Matsuda works his way back into a safe position though.
Matsuda won't allow Gulf to sweep him here.
Gulf keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Gulf wants to sweep but no luck.
Gulf is trying to keep Matsuda in close. #SUB#
Gulf has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Matsuda can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Matsuda postures up and lands a big shot to Gulf's brow.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
That's time! Gulf's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2##TD2#
Matsuda shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Gulf is trying to defend but Matsuda finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Matsuda is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Gulf wants to improve his position but Matsuda is controlling well.
Matsuda is thwarting Gulf's attempts to control the position.
Gulf is looking to improve his position.
Gulf won't allow Matsuda to pass to mount.
Gulf has hold of Matsuda's hands but Matsuda slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Matsuda is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Gulf is just riding it out for now. Matsuda eventually gives up the hold.
Gulf is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Matsuda scores with a couple of nice shots.#T1#
Matsuda is looking to take a break and control but Gulf is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Matsuda is pressing down on Gulf's thigh, looking to free his foot. Gulf is holding on for now.
Gulf is trying to maintain the position but Matsuda is very close to passing his half guard.
Gulf keeps control of the position for the meantime.
Gulf taking some punishment here, with Matsuda in his half guard.
Gulf is looking to improve his position.
Matsuda wants to free his trapped foot but Gulf is holding on for dear life with his legs. #SUB2#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura here.
Matsuda has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Matsuda is looking to advance position but Gulf won't allow it. #T2##SUB2#
Matsuda is working for a submission of some sort.
Gulf tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg.
Gulf trying to hold on to Matsuda's head to control him but Matsuda postures up.
Gulf moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Gulf looking for a sweep. Not yet Gulf, not yet.
Gulf can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Matsuda controls the pace.
Gulf 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.#T3#
Gulf keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda postures up in Gulf's guard and throws a big left but Gulf blocks it.
Matsuda makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Gulf has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Matsuda has passed into side control. #SUB2#
Matsuda thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Gulf taking punishment in the form of punches.
Gulf is trying to improve his position.
Matsuda wants to lay and pray for a moment but Gulf keeps working.
Gulf is trying to improve his position.
Matsuda looks up at the clock and then as Gulf takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Matsuda smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude! #T4#
Matsuda working the body and head with strikes.
Matsuda advances to mount.
Matsuda punishing his opponent with strikes.
Matsuda breaks from Gulf's wrist control and lands an elbow. #SUB2#
Matsuda working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Gulf is wriggling around trying to escape.
Gulf bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
Gulf throwing strikes from guard but Matsuda blocks nicely.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Matsuda is looking for a triangle but Gulf pushes his legs off easily.
Gulf has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Gulf is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Gulf moves away and avoids it.
Leyte Gulf has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
A nice leg kick lands there from Gulf.
Matsuda missing with a left hand there. Gulf was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Gulf looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Matsuda lands a head shot.
Matsuda lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Gulf scores with a sloppy right hand. Matsuda should have avoided that one.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Gulf catches Matsuda with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!#T1#
Gulf misses with a hook
letting Matsuda counter with a right hand.
Gulf misses with a double jab.
Matsuda throws a jab when Gulf was well out of range.
Gulf waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Matsuda.
Gulf uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.
Nice defenses there by Gulf.
Gulf scores with a hook.#CUT#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
A swing and a miss from Matsuda.
Gulf throws out a leg kick but Matsuda moves out of range and Gulf only half commits. #T2#
Gulf displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matsuda throws out the jab.
Matsuda scores with a hook.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
A jab lands there for Matsuda.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Gulf does a little dance to reset his feet.
Gulf is looking to counter punch.
Matsuda lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Gulf at a distance.
Gulf slips under a jab from Matsuda.
Leyte Gulf is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Matsuda works Gulf's body with a nice hook.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Matsuda, as that shot connected. #T3#
Matsuda lands with an uppercut that bounces Gulf off the cage and back into range.
Gulf blocks a jab.
Matsuda punishes Gulf's body with a nice straight punch.
Gulf ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Matsuda throws a shot to the body.
Gulf scores with a crisp jab that stopped Matsuda in his tracks.
Matsuda tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Gulf defends well and Matsuda ends up having to push Gulf into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Matsuda ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.#T4#
Matsuda takes a swing at Gulf's ribcage but misses.
Matsuda slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Matsuda throws the left hand but Gulf avoids the punch easily.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Gulf moves away.
Gulf swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Gulf misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
Gulf uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Tanaka Matsuda is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Matsuda swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
A shot to the body from Matsuda misses
and Gulf counters with a two punch combo.
No luck for Matsuda with that takedown attempt.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Matsuda 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 Frank Antenori scores the fight 27:30
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

A very excited looking Tanaka Matsuda 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: Sucker Punch Pro Series 181     
Date:   Sep 11, 2022
#R1##TD#
Matsuda shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Matsuda connects with a nice short shot to Bizihwaile's temple.
Bizihwaile on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Bizihwaile keeping control of the leg, stopping his opponent passing to mount.
Bizihwaile trying to control from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ground and pound from Matsuda.
Matsuda thows a huge punch but Bizihwaile dodges it nicely.
Matsuda works his way into side control.
Matsuda trying to control the action but Bizihwaile is working from the bottom. #T1#
Matsuda scoring with punches and elbows.
Bizihwaile is working to avoid the ground and pound but Matsuda connects with a decent elbow.
Bizihwaile is looking for a sweep.#T2#
Matsuda cracks Bizihwaile with a big right hand but Bizihwaile just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
Bizihwaile prevents Matsuda from moving into mount.
Matsuda throws a strike aimed at the side of Bizihwaile's head but Bizihwaile avoids it well.
Matsuda working the ground and pound.
Matsuda tries to advance to mount but Bizihwaile instead regains half guard.
Matsuda thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Bizihwaile is holding on to half guard well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Bizihwaile tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg. #T3#
Bizihwaile blocking the ground and pound attempt from Matsuda.
Bizihwaile is looking to improve his position.
Bizihwaile keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Bizihwaile tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.
Matsuda is figuring out what he wants to do next.
Matsuda takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Bizihwaile tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg. #T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Matsuda is thwarting Bizihwaile's attempts to control the position.
Matsuda thows a huge punch but Bizihwaile dodges it nicely.
Bizihwaile is looking to improve his position.
Matsuda is pressing down on Bizihwaile's thigh, looking to free his foot. Bizihwaile is holding on for now.
Matsuda lands strikes from half guard.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Bizihwaile makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Bizihwaile.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Bizihwaile uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Bizihwaile! But no joy.
Bizihwaile takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Bizihwaile misses with a looping left.
Matsuda scores with a shot to the body.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Bizihwaile throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda jabs at Bizihwaile's body.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Bizihwaile slips the punch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bizihwaile throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Matsuda is looking to counter punch.
Bizihwaile misses with a low kick.
Matsuda looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Bizihwaile is fending him off so far but Matsuda persists. Nope, Bizihwaile circles away and we're back to standing.
Bizihwaile drops his hands momentarily and Matsuda takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head. #T1#
Nice sprawl there from Bizihwaile as Matsuda shoots in.
Bizihwaile swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda lands with a good body shot.
Bizihwaile keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Bizihwaile uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Bizihwaile doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Bizihwaile takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Bizihwaile can do to turn this around?
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
A little jabbing left from Bizihwaile on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Bizihwaile cracks Matsuda with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Bizihwaile moves out of range.
Bizihwaile throws a sloppy head kick and Matsuda moves out of range easily.
Tanaka Matsuda is winning the standup battle so far.#T2#
Bizihwaile throws a head kick but Matsuda moves out of range.
Bizihwaile misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Matsuda just misses with a punch to the body.
Penkosip Bizihwaile is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Bizihwaile throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
A head kick misses from Bizihwaile.
Bizihwaile lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Matsuda misses with a body shot
and Bizihwaile counters with a stiff right hand.
Bizihwaile stuffs the takedown attempt from Matsuda. Matsuda gets slowly back to his feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.#T3#
Bizihwaile throws a sloppy head kick and Matsuda moves out of range easily.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda throws a hook but Bizihwaile blocks it.
Matsuda getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Matsuda takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Bizihwaile moves out of range.
Bizihwaile feints a counter leg kick.
Bizihwaile staying out of range there.
Bizihwaile throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Bizihwaile blocks a jab.
Bizihwaile takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Bizihwaile ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.#T4#
Bizihwaile misses with a low kick as Matsuda jumps back.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
A jab from Matsuda misses.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Matsuda throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Matsuda cracks Bizihwaile with a good jab.
Matsuda pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Matsuda blocks a head kick by Bizihwaile.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Matsuda misses the jab.
Bizihwaile shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Matsuda is looking to wear down Bizihwaile with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Bizihwaile defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Matsuda.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Bizihwaile waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Matsuda.
Matsuda sizes up Bizihwaile with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Matsuda misses with a lunging right hand
and Bizihwaile counters with a straight right hand.
Bizihwaile uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Matsuda lands with a hook. Bizihwaile tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Matsuda looks to score with a jab to the body but Bizihwaile is just out of range.
Bizihwaile connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bizihwaile throws a sloppy head kick #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Bizihwaile has Matsuda pulled in close to control his posture.
Matsuda preventing the sweep. #T1#
Matsuda stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Bizihwaile swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Bizihwaile has Matsuda pulled in close to control his posture.
Matsuda trying to control but Bizihwaile is working from the bottom.
Matsuda trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Matsuda looking to sit in guard and control but Bizihwaile gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB##SUB#
Matsuda is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Penkosip Bizihwaile has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2##SUB#
Matsuda working for a triangle but Bizihwaile defends it easily.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Bizihwaile with a flurry of punches that miss.
Matsuda looking to hit a scissor sweep but Bizihwaile is one step ahead there.
Matsuda is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#T3##SUB#
Matsuda has thrown up a leg looking for a triangle. Bizihwaile doesn't defend quickly enough and Matsuda has managed to lock this one up! Can Bizihwaile escape?! NO! He's tapping out! Damn, that was a quick submission - congrats to Matsuda on a fantastic submission victory.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:23 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Tanaka Matsuda!
During a confident post fight interview, Tanaka Matsuda thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.
Penkosip Bizihwaile spoke after the fight, saying 'Time to rethink my career.'.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 169     
Date:   Aug 10, 2022
#R1#
Matsuda defending well as Reed loads up on a big left hand.
Reed 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.
Reed loads up on a big right hand but Matsuda slips the punch.
Reed throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Reed is a painfully thin specimen of a man. You do wonder whether a good body kick would snap him clean in two.
Reed throws a push kick but Matsuda slaps the foot to one side.
Reed blocks a jab.
We've been hearing reports that Matsuda has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Reed sizes up Matsuda with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Reed throws a big shot that misses.
Matsuda darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Reed does a little dance to reset his feet.
Reed looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Matsuda lands with a straight right. Reed didn't see that one coming.
Reed misses with a body kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Reed moves out of range.
Reed is looking to score with low kicks.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Reed swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
The sound of bone on bone echoes around the arena as Matsuda checks a leg kick.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
Matsuda lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Reed at a distance. #T1#
Matsuda scores with a jab to the head.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Matsuda throws the left hand but Reed avoids the punch easily.
Matsuda drops his hands momentarily and Reed takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Matsuda swings for the body but Reed moves out of range.
Reed swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Reed throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matsuda scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Reed lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Matsuda at a distance.
Nice shot lands for Reed.
Matsuda sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.
Matsuda scores with a nice strike.
A telegraphed right hand from Reed misses the target.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Reed's jab looks to have found its range, popping Matsuda under the eye.#T2#
Reed misses with a head kick.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Matsuda misses with a straight right.
Matsuda steps to his left, right into the path of a big body kick from Reed. That one must have hurt.
A big left from Reed misses.
A head kick misses from Reed.
A telegraphed right hand from Matsuda misses the target.
Reed throws a quick inside leg kick.
Reed lands a right hook to the body.
Matsuda sizes up Reed with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Nice defenses there by Reed.
A jab from Matsuda misses. #TD#
Matsuda drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Reed is looking to regain half guard here but Matsuda keeps moving and retains side control.
Reed struggling a bit here.#T3#
Reed tries to bench press Matsuda off him but Matsuda keeps the position.
Matsuda controlling the position from side mount.
Reed is trying to improve his position.
Matsuda works a knee to the body and follows up with a nice elbow to the head.
Reed is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Matsuda working away.
Matsuda fails to land a wild elbow strike.
Reed keeping his opponent close.#SUB#
Matsuda is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Reed knows the correct defense though, so he's OK. #T4#
Reed takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Reed parries the strikes from Matsuda easily there. Matsuda is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Reed to escape.
Matsuda throwing shots but missing, from side control.
Reed tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Matsuda 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.
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes.
Reed manages to work his way to half guard, despite Matsuda's best efforts.
Reed avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Matsuda.
Matsuda working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.
Matsuda throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Matsuda scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Matsuda stops Reed from getting back to his feet.
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 Tanaka Matsuda will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Matsuda shoots in and drives through. Reed sprawls well.
Good shot there by Matsuda.
Decent striking displayed by Reed there.
Reed throws a nice head kick!
Matsuda has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Reed.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Reed throws a shot from downtown. Matsuda moves away and avoids it.
Matsuda lands a slapping body shot.
Reed keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Donk. Reed catches Matsuda right on the button with a cross.
Reed jabs at Matsuda's body.
Matsuda takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Matsuda takes a shot to the body in his stride.
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!
Reed throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Reed tries a head kick but it misses. #T1#
Matsuda takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Ben Reed seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Reed jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Matsuda swings for the body but Reed moves out of range.
Ben Reed is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Reed misses with the body kick#TD#
and Matsuda counters with a single leg into guard. Reed didn't expect that.
Reed has his hands on Matsuda's head, controlling the position.
Reed being controlled here, momentarily.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Reed holds on and takes a little breather.
Reed preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Reed keeps moving.
Reed is trying to keep Matsuda in close. #T2#
Reed controlling Matsuda's posture.
Reed is continuing to stall.#REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Matsuda avoids the body shot from Reed.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Reed moves out of range.
Reed scoring well with a low kick there.
Reed defending well as Matsuda loads up on a big left hand.
Reed throws a lazy head kick
and Matsuda counters with a straight punch to the midsection.#T3#
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Reed moves away.
Ben Reed seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Reed throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Matsuda misses with a hook. Reed ducked under it nicely. #TD#
Matsuda looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda trying to control but Reed is working from the bottom.
Matsuda trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Matsuda being controlled here momentarily.
Reed keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Reed looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Reed keeps moving. #T4#
Reed seems keen to control Matsuda's posture.
Reed is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Reed keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Reed looks to land a right hand but Matsuda moved out of range.
Matsuda fails to land the takedown.
A head kick misses from Reed.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Reed chopping away at his opponent's legs.
A jab from Reed misses.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ben Reed showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Reed throws a body shot but no joy.
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Reed.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Reed is quick to defend against it.
Matsuda doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Reed throws a right hand that Matsuda ducks under and follows up with a left that Matsuda also avoids with ease.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Matsuda takes a head kick and keeps coming.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body. #TD#
Matsuda shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Reed is trying to defend but Matsuda finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Matsuda is thwarting Reed's attempts to control the position.
Reed is controlling Matsuda's position as best he can from this difficult position.
Reed trying to control but Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda stops Reed from getting back to his feet. #T1#
Matsuda landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Matsuda is nestled in close to Reed, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Matsuda looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Reed with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position. #SUB#
Matsuda seems to be working for a kimura but Reed defends the submission attempt.
Matsuda working over Reed with some ground and pound. Reed looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Reed moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Reed holds on and takes a little breather.
Matsuda works over Reed with some ground and pound from guard.
Reed is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Reed is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Matsuda 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.#T2#
Reed preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Matsuda being controlled here momentarily.
Reed is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Matsuda stops Reed from standing up.
Matsuda is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Reed is adopting a defensive guard.
Matsuda with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Reed keeps moving.
Reed managing to control the position. #T3#
Matsuda missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time. #SUB2#
Reed escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Matsuda gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Matsuda lands a couple of elbows.
Reed is trying to control the position but Matsuda postures up.
Reed wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Matsuda trying to control but Reed is working from the bottom.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.#T4#
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.
Reed is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
Matsuda is in close to Reed's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Reed is adopting a defensive guard.
Matsuda loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Reed has control of Matsuda's left arm, preventing Matsuda from doing any damage.
Matsuda scoring with punches to the head and body.
Matsuda working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Reed controls Matsuda momentarily but Matsuda frees himself.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Matsuda's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Reed is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
Matsuda cracks Reed with a solid left hand.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Matsuda 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 Ren Mimura scores the fight 29:28
Judge Tatsuya Matsuyama scores the fight 29:28
Judge Hirohito Nitta scores the fight 29:29

In favor of your winner, by majority decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

A very excited looking Tanaka Matsuda 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: Sucker Punch Pro Series 161     
Date:   Jul 15, 2022
#R1#
Matsuda bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Fuhren's head backwards.
Fuhren lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Fuhren uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with a looping left.
Matsuda has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Gunner's School of Combat in the buildup to the fight.
Fuhren loads up on a big right hand but Matsuda slips the punch.
Fuhren tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Fuhren.
Fuhren lands a nice leg kick that just misses Matsuda's sensitive parts.
Matsuda checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Fuhren throws a body shot but no joy.
Fuhren scores with a jab to the jaw.
Fuhren takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Fuhren misses with a lunging right hand
and Matsuda counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Fuhren.
Fuhren misses with a straight right.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Fuhren is quick to defend against it.
Fuhren tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Fuhren.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Matsuda fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot. #T1#
Fuhren moves into range and connects with a jab.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Fuhren slips the punch.
Fuhren walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Matsuda checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Fuhren waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Matsuda.
Fuhren lands a nice shot to the body.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Fuhren.
Fuhren throws a lazy uppercut #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Fuhren!

Fuhren throws his opponent off and manages to get back to his feet! Nicely done!
Psiris Fuhren seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Fuhren pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Matsuda connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Fuhren throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Fuhren misses with a looping right.
An attempted straight right counter from Matsuda misses the target.
Matsuda connects with the punch.
Matsuda slips a jab from Fuhren.#T2#
Fuhren misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
A cross from Fuhren lands.
Fuhren throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air. #TD#
Matsuda decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.

Fuhren pushes Matsuda off and gets back to his feet.
Fuhren lands with an overhand left.
Matsuda scores with the left hand. Fuhren knows he should have avoided that one.
Fuhren misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Fuhren throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Matsuda sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Fuhren throws a shot to the body.
Matsuda takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Fuhren tries to work over Matsuda's front leg with a kick but Matsuda checks it.
Fuhren uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.
Fuhren scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Fuhren fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.#T3#
Matsuda slips under a jab from Fuhren.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Fuhren avoids it well and moves away.
Fuhren lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Fuhren throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Fuhren sprawls and moves away.
Fuhren misses the jab.
Fuhren ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
Fuhren is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Matsuda.
Matsuda connects with a good right hand that stumbles Fuhren. Fuhren circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
Fuhren throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
Fuhren scores with a shot to the body.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Good work by Matsuda as he checks the leg kick.
Matsuda drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Matsuda stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Fuhren.
Matsuda missing with a left hand there. Fuhren was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one. #T4##TD#
Matsuda shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Fuhren manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.

Fuhren has managed to wall walk up one of the corner posts to get back to his feet. Matsuda is pushing him up against the cage, looking to control the position.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Fuhren tries to work over Matsuda's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target. #TD#
Matsuda is trying to trip Fuhren. He has hold of a leg but Fuhren is hopping around, keeping his balance for the moment. Matsuda persists though and gets the takedown into guard.
Matsuda is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Matsuda looking to pass the guard.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Matsuda postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Psiris Fuhren dominated that 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.#R2#
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Fuhren slips the punch.
Fuhren connects with a solid leg kick.
Matsuda will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Fuhren misses with a wild body shot.
Fuhren slips a jab from Matsuda.
Fuhren finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Fuhren waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Matsuda.
Matsuda takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Fuhren slips the punch.
Fuhren looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Fuhren tries to land a leg kick but Matsuda saw it coming and moves away.
Fuhren ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Matsuda moves away.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda swings for the body but Fuhren moves out of range.
Fuhren throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Matsuda checks a low kick from Fuhren.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Fuhren avoids it well and moves away.
Matsuda showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Fuhren.
Fuhren has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#T1#
Fuhren misses with a wild body shot.
Psiris Fuhren seems to be getting the better of the standup.
The fighters circling - Fuhren throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Nice takedown defense from Fuhren. No joy for Matsuda on that attempt.
Fuhren throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
The sound of bone on bone echoes around the arena as Matsuda checks a leg kick.
Fuhren misses with a straight right.
A jab from Matsuda misses.
Fuhren tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Fuhren.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Matsuda dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Fuhren wants to land a leg kick but Matsuda is out of range.
Matsuda cracks Fuhren with a good jab.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
A punch combination from Fuhren misses.
Fuhren takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Fuhren drops his hands momentarily and Matsuda takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head. #T2#
Fuhren attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Fuhren throws a leg kick but Matsuda sees it coming and checks it nicely.
Fuhren lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Fuhren avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matsuda slips a straight right by Fuhren.
Matsuda scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Fuhren moves out of range.
Fuhren throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Fuhren with the inside leg kick.
Fuhren lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Matsuda shoots in but Fuhren avoids the takedown attempt easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda connects with the punch.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body. #T3#
Matsuda digs a good body shot into Fuhren's ribs.
Fuhren connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Matsuda swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Fuhren throws a hook but Matsuda avoids it easily.
Matsuda fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Matsuda lands a slapping body shot.
Matsuda throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Matsuda backing away here, and Fuhren unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Fuhren uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Fuhren thows a left - swing and a miss!
Fuhren throws a poor cross that misses
and Matsuda cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Some bone on bone action there as Matsuda checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one.
Good standup being displayed there by Matsuda as he connects with a hook.
Fuhren misses with an uppercut. Matsuda saw that one coming.
Fuhren thows a left - swing and a miss!
Fuhren leaves Matsuda with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.#T4#
Matsuda slips a jab from Fuhren.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Fuhren moves into range and connects with a jab.
Matsuda takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Matsuda darts in looking for a takedown but Fuhren gets double underhooks and turns Matsuda into the cage.
Matsuda changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Fuhren fights it off and pushes away nicely.
A clash of legs there as Matsuda blocks the low kick.
Matsuda throws a shot to the body.
Good work by Matsuda as he checks the leg kick.
Matsuda ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Matsuda steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Fuhren.
Matsuda swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Fuhren is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Matsuda.
Left hook, right uppercut from Fuhren.
Matsuda connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Fuhren momentarily.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Psiris Fuhren will probably get the nod - 10:9.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. This is the final round!#R3#
Fuhren lands a really nice looking cross but Matsuda seems unphased.
Fuhren misses with a leg kick.
Fuhren misses with a straight left.
Fuhren scores with the left hand. Matsuda knows he should have avoided that one.
Matsuda takes a swing at Fuhren's ribcage but misses.
Fuhren tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Fuhren.
Matsuda works Fuhren's body with a nice hook.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Fuhren is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Matsuda with a body shot.
Matsuda keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
A big left from Fuhren misses.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Fuhren bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Fuhren connects with a nice looking jab.
Fuhren scores with a jab to the head.
Matsuda just misses with a punch 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!
Fuhren throws a leg kick but Matsuda sees it coming and moves out of range.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.#T1#
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Matsuda.
A jab from Fuhren misses.
A telegraphed right hand from Matsuda misses the target.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
A big left from Fuhren misses.
Matsuda lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.
Fuhren tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Matsuda takes a swing at Fuhren's ribcage but misses.
Nice takedown defense from Fuhren. No joy for Matsuda on that attempt. #TD#
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Fuhren napping and manages to drive through into side control!#SUB#
Matsuda tries for a kimura but Fuhren is defending well.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Matsuda goes for an armbar! This could be all over! Wait, no, Fuhren rolls with the submission and now he's on top in Matsuda's guard! Nice work there by Fuhren! #T2#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#SUB#
Fuhren is sitting in close to Matsuda's body. Matsuda has gone for a guillotine from the bottom. Oh damn, that looks pretty tight! Fuhren is panicking - it looks like this one could be all over! Yes, Fuhren is tapping! That was a very nice submission by Matsuda.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:26 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Tanaka Matsuda!
A relieved looking Tanaka Matsuda thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.
Psiris Fuhren spoke after the fight, saying 'Well Shit.'.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 154     
Date:   Jun 15, 2022
#R1#
Patterson throws out a loose jab but Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid it.
Patterson works the jab nicely.
A decent looking cross lands there for Patterson.
Patterson swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
Patterson tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Matsuda manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Matsuda throwing a counter right hand but Patterson manages to avoid it.
Patterson throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Patterson takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Patterson misses with a body shot.
We've been hearing reports that Matsuda has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Patterson misses with a hook.
Patterson misses with a looping right.
We've been informed that Patterson 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.
Derek Patterson seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Patterson thuds a left hand into Matsuda's body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Patterson does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matsuda misses the jab.
Patterson tries to land a body kick#TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Patterson has Matsuda pulled in close to control his posture. #T1#
Matsuda is pushing down on Patterson's leg trying to pass to half guard. Patterson is fighting to maintain full guard but Matsuda has managed to sneak the leg through.
Patterson trying to control from the bottom.
Matsuda is taking a breather. Patterson says something to him but it's hard to make out. Perhaps he's telling him to get on with it and actually do something.
Matsuda will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Patterson wants to get back to full guard.
The fighters are battling for position here. Patterson manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Patterson wants to stand up but Matsuda is controlling him.
Matsuda throwing strikes from guard but Patterson blocks nicely. #T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Patterson is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Patterson looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Matsuda scoring with some ground and pound.
Matsuda works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Matsuda throws a strike but Patterson avoids it easily and moves to full guard.
Patterson is trying to control the position but Matsuda postures up.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Patterson works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Patterson looking to control.
Patterson seems keen to control Matsuda's posture.#T3#
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Matsuda postures up and lands a big shot to Patterson's brow.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Matsuda working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Patterson's head.
Matsuda content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Matsuda throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Patterson keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Patterson is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Patterson wants to sweep here but Matsuda controlling him for the moment. #T4#
Patterson controls Matsuda momentarily but Matsuda frees himself.
Patterson wants to stand but Matsuda is controlling the position.
Matsuda is looking to work some ground and pound but Patterson has wrist control.
Patterson looking to control. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Matsuda uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Patterson.
Patterson uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Matsuda throws a hook but Patterson blocks it.
Derek Patterson is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Patterson connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Matsuda doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Patterson jabbing away but nothing is landing.
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 Tanaka Matsuda will probably get the nod.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Matsuda lands the left hand.
Matsuda tries to score a power double leg takedown but Patterson sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Matsuda somewhat.
Patterson looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.
Matsuda throws a hook but Patterson avoids it easily.
Patterson thuds his right hand into Matsuda's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Patterson misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Patterson paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Matsuda jabs Patterson to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Matsuda swings for the body but Patterson moves out of range.
Matsuda missing with a left hand there. Patterson was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Patterson stuffs the takedown.
The fighters circle momentarily. Patterson darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Patterson throws a body kick that misses #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into side control. Patterson won't be happy with that.
This has been an exciting period of action!#SUB#
Matsuda looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Matsuda working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter. #T1#
Patterson is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda working the body and head with strikes.
Patterson looking for a sweep but Matsuda has passed into full mount! Oh no!
Matsuda landing strikes from the mount and Patterson is in trouble!
Patterson is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Matsuda lands with some strikes.#T2#
Matsuda tries to control but Patterson wriggling away.
Matsuda scoring with strikes but Patterson is staying in there.
Patterson is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Matsuda landing strikes from the mount and Patterson is in trouble!
Matsuda pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Patterson is bucking up trying to escape but Matsuda cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
Patterson looks out of his depth in this position - he's holding on tight.
Matsuda landing strikes from the mount and Patterson is in trouble!
Patterson is looking to get to half guard.#T3#
Matsuda unloading with bombs!
Matsuda tries to control but Patterson wriggling away.
Patterson is not a happy chappy… he wants out of there.
BOOM! Matsuda connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Matsuda with shots to the head and body - Patterson looks very uncomfortable down there.
Patterson is in a horrible position here. Matsuda smacks him with another shot as he tries to escape the position. #ROC#Patterson is rocked!
Patterson keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Patterson is still in real trouble! Can Matsuda finish him?
Matsuda with shots to the head and body - Patterson looks very uncomfortable down there.
A big strike lands for Matsuda! That's really hurt Patterson and he's turned his back - Matsuda keeps firing away and the ref dives in to stop the fight! Matsuda jumps to his feet to celebrate the victory!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:58 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tanaka Matsuda!
A victorious Tanaka Matsuda thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 147     
Date:   May 22, 2022
#R1##CL2#
Matsuda gets tackled into the cage by Fuhren. Fuhren maintains the clinch.
A right handed body shot lands from Fuhren.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Matsuda.
Matsuda tries to score a body lock takedown but Fuhren shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Matsuda works on Fuhren's body with a couple of short punches.
Matsuda tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Fuhren struggles to land a body shot inside as Matsuda controls his hands.
We've been hearing reports that Matsuda has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Matsuda misses with a punch on the inside.
Fuhren misses with a punch to the body.
Matsuda blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Matsuda tries to break the clinch but Fuhren is controlling the position.
Fuhren keeps control of Matsuda as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks.
Matsuda wants to break free but Fuhren has control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda blocks an uppercut.
Matsuda blocking some punches.
Matsuda tries to pull guard but Fuhren holds him up against the cage and eventually Matsuda drops back down to his feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda misses with a punch to the body. #BC#
Matsuda breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance. #T1#
Matsuda throws a big shot that misses.
Fuhren bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Fuhren throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Fuhren misses the shot to the body.
Fuhren throws the left hand but Matsuda avoids the punch easily.
Matsuda uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Fuhren.
Matsuda scores with a hook.#TD#
Matsuda closes the distance and gets a double leg, slamming Fuhren to the mat! Fuhren manages to get full guard.
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Fuhren is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Matsuda missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Matsuda makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.#T2#
Matsuda is looking to work some ground and pound but Fuhren has wrist control.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Fuhren is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing.
Fuhren looking to hit a scissor sweep but Matsuda is one step ahead there.
Matsuda looking to sit in guard and control but Fuhren gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB#
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Fuhren trying to stand up but can't free himself from Matsuda's guard.#T3##SU2#
Fuhren stands up and waves to Matsuda to follow him.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
Matsuda takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
A solid leg kick lands there for Fuhren.
Matsuda takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Nice jab there from Fuhren.
A slapping leg kick lands for Fuhren.
Matsuda misses with a hook.
Fuhren swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Matsuda with a nice cross.
Fuhren just misses with a punch to the body.
Matsuda uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Fuhren.
Donk. Matsuda catches Fuhren right on the button with a cross.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Matsuda closes the distance and clinches up with Fuhren, looking for a takedown. Matsuda pushes Fuhren against the cage but Fuhren circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.#T4#
Matsuda lands with a right hand.
Fuhren loads up on a big right hand but Matsuda slips the punch.
Matsuda swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
A swing and a miss from Fuhren.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Fuhren avoids it well and moves away.
Matsuda with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Fuhren to score with a decent uppercut.
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Fuhren.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Fuhren misses with a wild body shot.
Fuhren uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.
A low kick lands for Fuhren.
Fuhren listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Jab from Matsuda.
Fuhren misses the shot to the body.
Matsuda needs to keep his hands up - Fuhren had a free shot at his head there.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Fuhren blocks a jab.
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Fuhren moves away and avoids it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Psiris Fuhren dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Fuhren.
Fuhren 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.
Matsuda takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Fuhren misses with a lunging right hand
and Matsuda counters with a stiff right hand.
Psiris Fuhren seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Nice straight punches there by Fuhren. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Fuhren.
A jab from Matsuda misses.
Fuhren throws a leg kick that is checked#TD#
and Matsuda counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Fuhren!

Fuhren sneaks out the side door and pushes Matsuda away - he's back to his feet. The crowd show their appreciation for the escape.
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 telegraphed right hand from Fuhren misses the target. #CL2#
Fuhren instigates a clinch.
Matsuda blocks a body shot from Fuhren.
Fuhren misses with the head strike.
Fuhren takes a shot to the head.
Fuhren works on Matsuda's body with a couple of short punches.
Matsuda tries for a takedown. No joy.
Fuhren misses with a hook to the ribs. #T1#
Fuhren goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Matsuda tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Fuhren's elbow. #BC#
Matsuda breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut
and Fuhren counters with a good low kick that Matsuda was not able to check.
Matsuda is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Matsuda lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Fuhren at a distance.
Fuhren scores with a hook.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Fuhren, as that shot connected.
Matsuda cracks Fuhren with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Psiris Fuhren is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Fuhren takes a jab right on the kisser.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Fuhren looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Matsuda throws a looping overhand right but Fuhren ducks down to avoid it.
Fuhren misses with a low kick.
Fuhren just misses with a punch to the body.
Matsuda waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Fuhren.
Fuhren with a body punch. A glancing blow. #T2#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Good standup being displayed there by Fuhren as he connects with a hook.
Fuhren walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Matsuda checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
Fuhren throws a body shot but no joy.
Fuhren keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Fuhren with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
A big left from Fuhren misses.
Fuhren lands a nice looking body shot.
Fuhren displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matsuda throws out the jab.
Matsuda jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut.
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Fuhren sprawls and moves away.
A big left from Fuhren misses.
Psiris Fuhren seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Good work by Matsuda as he checks the leg kick.
Fuhren leaves Matsuda with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.#T3#
Fuhren fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Matsuda has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Matsuda shoots for a double leg takedown but Fuhren sprawls well. He's pushed Matsuda's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda lands with a good body shot.#TD#
Matsuda drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Fuhren has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Matsuda trying to move into half guard but instead Fuhren has managed to sweep!#REVB#
Fuhren looking to control the position here, rather than advance. #SU2#
Fuhren decides he's had enough of playing guard and decides to stand. Come on Matsuda, up you get! #T4#
Fuhren doesn't manage to clinch there - Matsuda circles away.
Fuhren tries to clinch up but Matsuda circles away and keeps his distance.
Fuhren throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
A telegraphed right hand from Fuhren misses the target.
Fuhren connects with a good right hand that stumbles Matsuda. Matsuda circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Fuhren clobbers Matsuda with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Fuhren throws an ugly left hook that misses #TD#
so Matsuda counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Fuhren is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Fuhren is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Fuhren keeps moving.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Psiris Fuhren showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. This is the final round!#R3#
Matsuda connects with a right hand. Fuhren shakes it off.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Fuhren.
Fuhren chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Fuhren displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Fuhren.
Fuhren misses with a looping right.
Fuhren throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Fuhren sprawls and moves away.
Matsuda tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Fuhren defends well and Matsuda ends up having to push Fuhren into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.#TD#
Matsuda successfully pulls guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Fuhren stopping the sweep attempt from Matsuda.#SU2#
Fuhren decides to stand up and beckons his opponent to follow.
Fuhren connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.#T1#
Fuhren displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matsuda throws out the jab.
Fuhren connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Matsuda's hands.
A left lands for Fuhren.
Fuhren tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Matsuda scores with a nice right hand.
Fuhren jabs at Matsuda's body.
Fuhren misses the jab.
Fuhren misses with a lunging right hand
and Matsuda counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Fuhren swings widly with a right hand #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Fuhren is looking to escape.
Matsuda wants to take a breather but Fuhren is having none of it.
Fuhren pushes Matsuda off looking to stand but Matsuda dives back in and keeps control.
Matsuda seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Fuhren does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #T2#
Fuhren is trying to stand back up but Matsuda is controlling him #SUB#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura. It's pretty deep but Fuhren still has the half guard so he's probably OK. Oh, Fuhren has exploded into a beautiful escape there and after a quick scramble, he's ended up in side control on top! Nice work! #SU2#
Fuhren has had enough of the ground for now and decides to stand.
Fuhren misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Fuhren.
Fuhren walks into a stiff left hand from Matsuda.
Fuhren pivots, looking for a leg kick but Matsuda is out of range and Fuhren settles back down.
Fuhren misses with a straight left.
Fuhren throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda blocks a jab.
Matsuda moves out of range of the leg kick from Fuhren.#T3#
Fuhren connects with the punch.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Fuhren connects with a body shot.
Fuhren is looking to clinch.
Matsuda takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Fuhren throws an off balance right hand #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.

Fuhren manages to escape and get back to his feet.
Tanaka Matsuda has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#TD#
Matsuda scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.

Fuhren makes some distance and scrambles quickly back to his feet. Nice work!
Fuhren throws a shot from downtown. Matsuda moves away and avoids it.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Fuhren ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Matsuda takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Fuhren misses with a straight right. #T4#
Fuhren tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Fuhren.
Fuhren wants to slow Matsuda down by chopping away at his legs.
Fuhren gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Fuhren thows a leg kick but Matsuda checks it #TD#
so Matsuda counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Fuhren bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Matsuda's guard. #REVB#
Matsuda tries to land a sweep but no joy. #SUB#
Fuhren got a little sloppy there for a moment and Matsuda has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Fuhren has managed to get both his arms back between Matsuda's legs - danger averted.
Psiris Fuhren is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Matsuda seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Fuhren trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #SU2#
Fuhren gets to his feet - Matsuda follows without any prompting.

And that's the end of the fight!
Psiris Fuhren comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Fuhren 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 Frank Antenori scores the fight 27:30
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 27:30
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Psiris Fuhren!

A relieved looking Psiris Fuhren 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: Sucker Punch Pro Series 140     
Date:   Apr 27, 2022
#R1#
Matsuda closes this distance looking for a takedown but McGuire circles away.
It seemed like McGuire was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Matsuda uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by McGuire.
It looked like Matsuda wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by McGuire! #CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
Matsuda getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Matsuda has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Gunner's School of Combat in the buildup to the fight.
Matsuda takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
McGuire lands with a nice body punch.
McGuire throws the kick towards the body but Matsuda avoids it.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
McGuire throws a head kick that half lands.
Matsuda misses with a hook.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but McGuire manages to avoid it.
McGuire feints a counter leg kick.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
McGuire displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Matsuda.
A countering left hand to the body from McGuire misses.#T1#
McGuire stuffs the takedown.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
A looping hook to the body misses from McGuire. Matsuda does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matsuda lands a jab to the head.
Matsuda lands a head shot.
Matsuda throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
A punch lands to the side of McGuire 's head but he takes it in his stride.
McGuire swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda moves out of range as McGuire throws a body kick.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but McGuire is quick to defend against it.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Nice cross by Matsuda.
McGuire tries a head kick but it misses. #T2#
Matsuda stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from McGuire.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Matsuda, as that shot connected. #TD#
A momentary lapse in concentration from McGuire enables Matsuda to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. McGuire manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
McGuire is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#SUB2#
McGuire looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
McGuire utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound. #SUB2#
McGuire is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now McGuire is on top in guard. #REVB##SUB#
Matsuda has his foot on McGuire's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. McGuire works his way back into a safe position though.#T3#
McGuire sitting in guard here, content to control. #SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
McGuire trying to control but Matsuda is working from the bottom.
McGuire is in close to Matsuda's body, working some short punches and elbows.#T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as McGuire accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
McGuire throwing strikes from guard but Matsuda blocks nicely.
McGuire must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
McGuire stopping the sweep attempt from Matsuda.
McGuire keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Matsuda's head.#SUB#
Matsuda had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. McGuire defends it easily.#SUB#
Matsuda has his foot on McGuire's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. McGuire works his way back into a safe position though.
McGuire keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Matsuda's head.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Landon McGuire will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Good standup being displayed there by McGuire as he connects with a hook.#CL2#
McGuire closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
McGuire misses with a shot to the kidneys. #TD#
Matsuda successfully pulls guard.
Matsuda working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from McGuire. #SUB#
Matsuda throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Matsuda has his foot on McGuire's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. McGuire works his way back into a safe position though.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
McGuire looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
McGuire pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Matsuda is keeping the position for now. #T1##SUB#
Matsuda escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. McGuire gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Matsuda looking to control. #SUB#
McGuire got a little sloppy there for a moment and Matsuda has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, McGuire has managed to get both his arms back between Matsuda's legs - danger averted.
McGuire is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions. #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.
McGuire trying to control but Matsuda is working from the bottom.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.#SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
McGuire trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
McGuire postures up and lands a big shot to Matsuda's brow.
Matsuda is trying to keep McGuire in close.
McGuire tries to free his leg and advance position but Matsuda is retaining full guard. #T3#
McGuire postures up. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Matsuda cracks McGuire with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
McGuire misses with an uppercut.
Matsuda throws a jab when McGuire was well out of range.
McGuire closes the distance and clinches up with Matsuda, looking for a takedown. McGuire pushes Matsuda against the cage but Matsuda circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
McGuire throws a series of strikes that have Matsuda backpedaling.
Matsuda takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Matsuda checks the leg kick.#TD#
Matsuda feints and as McGuire raises his hands in defense, Matsuda changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but McGuire keeps moving. #T4#
Matsuda scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matsuda won't allow McGuire to sweep him here.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but McGuire is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Matsuda working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Landon McGuire will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
That's time! Matsuda's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3#
Matsuda missing with a left hand there. McGuire was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
McGuire throws a low kick but Matsuda avoids it.
A nice leg kick from McGuire, right into the meat of the thigh.
Matsuda jabs McGuire right on the nose. McGuire blinks but takes it well.#TD#
McGuire tries to sprawl but Matsuda drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Matsuda lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt. #SUB2#
McGuire looking for submissions off his back.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda is keen to just control but McGuire is a slippery customer.#T1##SUB#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura but McGuire is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Matsuda to get the leverage. #SUB2#
McGuire looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
McGuire wants to improve his position but Matsuda is controlling well.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda trying to control the action but McGuire is working from the bottom.
Matsuda is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Matsuda wants to lay and pray for a moment but McGuire keeps working. #T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.#SUB2#
McGuire looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Matsuda lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Matsuda scores with a couple of good hammerfists.#SUB2#
McGuire is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Matsuda pulls his head out easily.
Matsuda is trying to control. McGuire wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
McGuire is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#T3#
Matsuda is looking to take a break and control but McGuire is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
McGuire is trying to maintain the position but Matsuda is very close to passing his half guard.
Matsuda slips a nice elbow through McGuire's hands, connecting with McGuire's forehead.
Matsuda works his way into side control.
Tanaka Matsuda has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
McGuire is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
McGuire manages to get one leg in to regain half guard. #T4#
Matsuda slips a nice elbow through McGuire's hands, connecting with McGuire's forehead.
Matsuda throwing shots but McGuire is blocking nicely.
McGuire on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound. #SUB#
Matsuda is working for a kimura but McGuire is defending it quite comfortably.
McGuire trying to hold on to Matsuda's head to control him but Matsuda postures up.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Matsuda lands strikes from half guard.
McGuire has his hands clasped together around Matsuda's back. He's all about the action.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda showed his dominance in that final round.
I think McGuire has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Hirohito Nitta scores the fight 28:29
Judge Yukihiro Yamamoto scores the fight 28:29
Judge Shirou Masuda scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Landon McGuire!

During a confident post fight interview, Landon McGuire thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 133     
Date:   Apr 03, 2022
#R1#
Alaoui throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Matsuda makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Matsuda shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Alaoui counters with a stiff right hand. #CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Alaoui throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Alaoui 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.
Matsuda scores with a body shot.
Matsuda lands a slapping body shot.
Matsuda throws an off balance right hand
and Alaoui counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda misses with a lunging right hand
and Alaoui counters with a stiff right hand.
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Matsuda takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Alaoui walks into a stiff left hand from Matsuda.
We've been hearing reports that Matsuda has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.#T1#
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Alaoui now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Matsuda closes this distance looking for a takedown but Alaoui circles away.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Alaoui! But no joy.
Alaoui takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Matsuda dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
A big right from Matsuda misses.
Alaoui appeared to try and counter that last move with a leg kick.
Matsuda is looking to wear down Alaoui with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Alaoui misses with a low kick as Matsuda jumps back.
Matsuda swings for the body but Alaoui moves out of range.
Alaoui looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Alaoui displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matsuda throws out the jab.
Matsuda dips to his left and cracks Alaoui with an uppercut!#T2#
Matsuda lands a really nice looking cross but Alaoui seems unphased.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Alaoui.
Alaoui looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Alaoui looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Alaoui looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.
Matsuda misses with a telegraphed body shot
and Alaoui counters with a head kick. That will keep Matsuda thinking before he tries any more sloppy attacks!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matsuda moves out of range of the leg kick from Alaoui.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#TD#
Matsuda gets the takedown into side control.
Matsuda landing strikes. #T3#
Alaoui struggling a bit here.
Alaoui dodges the ground and pound from Matsuda.#SUB#
Matsuda working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda working the ground and pound.
A bit of a lull in the action here.
Alaoui is looking for a sweep.
Alaoui holds on tight, trying to prevent any damage.
Alaoui tries to improve position but can't.
Alaoui sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.#T4#
Matsuda missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Matsuda missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Alaoui is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Alaoui trying to hold on to Matsuda's head to control him but Matsuda postures up.
Alaoui is trying to get back to full guard.#SUB#
Matsuda is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg. #SUB#
Matsuda is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Alaoui misses with a wild body shot.
Matsuda scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Matsuda lands the left hand.
Matsuda blocks a jab.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Alaoui avoids it well and moves away.
Matsuda cracks a nice hook into Alaoui's ribs.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
It seemed like Alaoui was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Tanaka Matsuda is winning the standup battle so far.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Alaoui manages to avoid it.
Alaoui swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A big right from Matsuda misses.
Alaoui uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Matsuda.
Alaoui throws a push kick but Matsuda slaps the foot to one side. #T1#
Matsuda lands a nice shot to the body.
Matsuda scores with a body shot.
A big right from Alaoui misses.
Good work by Matsuda as he checks the leg kick.
Matsuda jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Matsuda just misses with a punch to the body.
Alaoui raises up his leg as if looking to counter with a high kick.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Alaoui can do to turn this around?
Alaoui lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Matsuda at a distance.
Matsuda shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Alaoui pinned against the cage. Alaoui gets the underhooks and manages to circle away. #T2#
Alaoui connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Alaoui misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Matsuda looks to score with a jab to the body but Alaoui is just out of range.
Alaoui keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Alaoui is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Matsuda with a body shot.
Alaoui is looking to slow Matsuda down with leg kicks.
Matsuda takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Alaoui looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.#T3#
Alaoui walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
A swing and a miss from Matsuda.
Matsuda connects with a good right hand that stumbles Alaoui. Alaoui circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Alaoui throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Alaoui manages to avoid it.
Alaoui is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Alaoui lands three nice shots there - that looked like it hurt!
Matsuda misses with a looping right.
Alaoui connects with the punch.
Matsuda scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.#T4#
Matsuda throws a hook to the side of Alaoui's head but Alaoui sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Alaoui throws a sloppy head kick
and Matsuda counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Alaoui with the inside leg kick.
Matsuda fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Matsuda looks to land a left hand but Alaoui moved out of range nicely.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matsuda. Alaoui does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matsuda doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Alaoui counters with a left to the body.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda has a takedown stuffed.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Youssef Alaoui will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda'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. And we move into the final round!#R3##TD#
Matsuda dives in and scores a takedown into Alaoui's guard.
Alaoui is trying to control the position but Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Alaoui is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Matsuda throws a big right hand that misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Matsuda postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect. #T1#
Alaoui wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Matsuda stands and throws Alaoui's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Alaoui wants to control but Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda 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.
Alaoui tries to buck Matsuda off but Matsuda is having none of it.
Matsuda working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Alaoui tries to improve position but can't.
Sloppy strikes there by Matsuda.#T2#
Alaoui takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain. #ES2#
Alaoui throws Matsuda to one side and escapes!
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Alaoui moves away.
A slow jab from Alaoui misses its intended target.
Alaoui throws a right hand that misses #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown. Alaoui fights it but they end up in guard.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Alaoui is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Matsuda accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing.
Matsuda working some strikes from top position.#T3#
Alaoui seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
Matsuda in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Matsuda slips nicely into half guard.
Alaoui controlling the position well.
Matsuda controlling the pace.
Alaoui is looking to control Matsuda's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Alaoui avoid being mounted?
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Alaoui tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg. #SUB#
Alaoui is defending against the submission attempts here by Matsuda.
Matsuda looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Alaoui with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Alaoui trying to control but Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda is keen to just control but Alaoui is a slippery customer.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Matsuda 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 William Gold scores the fight 29:28
Judge Sam Margolis scores the fight 29:28
Judge Paul Tew scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

Our winner, Tanaka Matsuda, 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: Sucker Punch Pro Series 125     
Date:   Mar 06, 2022
#R1#
Kirk fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Matsuda uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Kirk.
Kirk ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Matsuda moves away.
Kirk throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Matsuda tries to score a power double leg takedown but Kirk sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Matsuda somewhat.
Kirk tries to clinch but Matsuda is having none of it.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Kirk lands with a right hand.
Kirk with the inside leg kick.
A big left from Kirk misses.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.#CL2#
Kirk darts in and clinches Matsuda up against the cage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kirk misses with a punch to the body.
Kirk tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Kirk swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Kirk misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Matsuda goes for a takedown in the clinch but Kirk prevents it. #T1#
Matsuda blocks a body shot from Kirk.
Kirk has a couple of punches blocked by Matsuda.
Matsuda jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Kirk walks away with a smile on his face. Matsuda gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Kirk moves away and avoids it.
James Kirk seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda walks into a stiff left hand from Kirk.
Kirk with a body punch. A glancing blow. #CL2#
Kirk darts in and clinches Matsuda up against the cage.
Kirk tries a body shot but Matsuda blocks it.
Matsuda tries a body shot but Kirk blocks it.
Kirk swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Kirk tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Kirk misses with some punches. #T2#
Kirk fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Kirk misses with some punches.
Kirk struggles to land a body shot inside as Matsuda controls his hands.
Kirk can't find room to land a body shot as Matsuda controls the action.
Kirk misses with a hook from the clinch.
Kirk can't find room to land a body shot as Matsuda controls the action.
Matsuda blocks an uppercut.
A left hand lands to the body for Kirk.
Kirk is pressed up against the cage. Matsuda has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Kirk down to the mat. Kirk avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
A big right from Matsuda misses.
Kirk misses with a body shot.
Kirk moves away from the strike by Matsuda.
James Kirk is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Matsuda fails with the takedown.
Matsuda swings widly with a right hand
and Kirk counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Kirk will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air. #T3#
Kirk fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matsuda manages to avoid it.
Kirk misses with a left hand #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Matsuda.
Matsuda with a flurry of punches that miss.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Kirk is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Kirk controls Matsuda momentarily but Matsuda frees himself.
Matsuda looking to pass the guard.
Matsuda is working hard here to advance position.#T4#
Matsuda landing some decent shots from guard.
Kirk preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Kirk looking to control.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Kirk keeps moving.
Matsuda pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Kirk is keeping the position for now.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Kirk is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Kirk looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

James Kirk dominated that round.
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#
A nice leg kick from Kirk, right into the meat of the thigh.
Kirk bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Matsuda's head.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Kirk slips the punch.
James Kirk seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Matsuda with a nice cross.
Kirk misses with a head kick.
Matsuda avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Kirk tries to bum rush Matsuda with a series of wild strikes but Matsuda uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Kirk slaps away a takedown attempt from Matsuda, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Kirk keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kirk misses with a double jab.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Kirk.
Matsuda slips a jab from Kirk.
Matsuda blocks a jab.
Matsuda throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #T1#
Kirk throws out a leg kick but Matsuda moves out of range and Kirk only half commits.
Matsuda half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
A slow jab from Kirk misses its intended target.
A nice leg kick from Kirk, right into the meat of the thigh.
Matsuda scores with a shot to the body.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Matsuda drops his hands momentarily and Kirk takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Matsuda slips under a jab.
Matsuda lands a nice looking body shot.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut.
Kirk wants to clinch.#CL2#
Kirk moves into the clinch.#T2#
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Kirk.
Matsuda blocks an uppercut.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Matsuda.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Kirk.
Kirk has a couple of punches blocked by Matsuda.
Kirk scores with a nice hook to the head.
Kirk lands with a short punch from 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!
Kirk tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
A nice left hand lands by Kirk.
Matsuda has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Kirk after a bit of a struggle.
Kirk lands with a right to the head.
James Kirk seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
Good body shot from Matsuda.
Matsuda blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Kirk is working Matsuda over against the cage.#T3#
Kirk misses with a body punch.
Kirk throws a punch but it's blocked by Matsuda.
Kirk tries to throw a body punch but Matsuda avoids it by throwing Kirk back against the cage.
Kirk misses with a hook to the ribs.
Kirk tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Matsuda's elbow.
Kirk tries to throw a body punch but Matsuda avoids it by throwing Kirk back against the cage.
Kirk misses with some punches.
Kirk tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A right hand to the body from Kirk.
Kirk gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Matsuda.
Kirk has been looking to improve his clinch game in recent weeks. Matsuda seems to have the measure of him in the clinch so far, so let's see if Kirk can turn it around.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda fails to pull guard.
Matsuda wants a takedown. #BC#
Matsuda breaks from the clinch. #T4#
Matsuda will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Kirk just misses with a punch to the body.
A little feinted left hand from Matsuda on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Kirk throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Matsuda stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Kirk has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Matsuda showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Kirk.
Nice sprawl there from Kirk as Matsuda shoots in.
Matsuda walks into a stiff left hand from Kirk.
Matsuda scores with a hook.
Kirk tries to clinch up.
Kirk wants to clinch.
The crowd cheers as Matsuda lands an impressive looking overhand right. Kirk doesn't seem phased though.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

James Kirk showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Matsuda's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3#
Kirk misses with a wild body shot.
Kirk fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Nice straight punches there by Kirk. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Kirk.
Kirk lands a body shot.
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Kirk dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Matsuda scores with a nice right hand.
Matsuda shoots in but no luck this time.
Matsuda backing away here, and Kirk unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Kirk tries to clinch but Matsuda moves out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jab, jab by Matsuda - just one landing.
Nice sprawl there from Kirk as Matsuda shoots in.
Kirk connects with a body shot that sends Matsuda's belly button to the back.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matsuda changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Kirk tries to avoid it but Matsuda manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Kirk to the ground. Kirk escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Kirk with a nice calf kick.#T1#
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
The fighters circling - Matsuda throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Matsuda will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Kirk throws an overhand right that lands on Matsuda's shoulder, as Matsuda tries to avoid the shot.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Kirk manages to avoid it.
Kirk goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Kirk tries to clinch but Matsuda is having none of it. #TD#
Matsuda darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Matsuda missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Kirk moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T2#
Kirk tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Kirk is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Kirk keeps trying to improve his position.
Matsuda advances position into side control!#SUB#
Matsuda tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Matsuda has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Kirk is not content to let Matsuda control the position. #T3#
Matsuda working away.
Kirk is trying to avoid being dragged into an even worse position than he's already in but Matsuda is staying active.
Matsuda working the strikes but Kirk uses the opportunity to regain half guard.
James Kirk is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Kirk trying to hold on to Matsuda's head to control him but Matsuda postures up.
Tanaka Matsuda has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Matsuda wants to control but Kirk is keeping him busy.
Kirk wants to improve his position but Matsuda is controlling well. #T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Kirk avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Matsuda.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Matsuda is nestled in close to Kirk, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Matsuda wants to take a breather but Kirk is having none of it.
Matsuda misses with a head shot. Kirk uses the momentum to regain guard.
Kirk wants to sweep but no luck.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Matsuda content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Matsuda cracks Kirk with a solid left hand.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Kirk is keeping the position.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Steven Brown scores the fight 27:30
Judge James Atkins scores the fight 27:30
Judge Daniel Bishop scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... James Kirk!

A relieved looking James Kirk 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: Sucker Punch Pro Series 117     
Date:   Feb 09, 2022
#R1#
Morgan throws a hook but Matsuda avoids it easily.
Morgan connects with a leg kick.
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Morgan.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
Matsuda lands with a nice body punch.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
A decent looking cross lands there for Morgan.
Arthur Morgan seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Morgan ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Matsuda moves away.
Matsuda jabs at Morgan's body.
Matsuda blocks a jab.
Morgan throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matsuda tries for a takedown but Morgan sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Matsuda lands with a straight right. Morgan didn't see that one coming.
Matsuda throws out a loose jab but Morgan uses good head movement to avoid it.
Morgan bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Matsuda's head backwards.
Matsuda takes one on the chin but seems OK.
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!
Matsuda changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Morgan keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda cracks Morgan with a right hand to the side of the head.#T1#
Morgan throws a wild body kick that Matsuda sees coming a mile off.
Matsuda tries for a takedown but Morgan sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Morgan avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Matsuda steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Morgan.
Morgan uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Morgan.
Morgan throws a body shot but no joy.
Morgan takes a swing at Matsuda's ribcage but misses.
Morgan throws a looping overhand right but Matsuda ducks down to avoid it.
Morgan throws a nice outside leg kick.
Morgan 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.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Morgan manages to avoid it.
A cross from Morgan lands.
Morgan avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Morgan slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #T2#
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Matsuda misses with a straight right.
The fighters circling - Morgan throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Morgan thows a left - swing and a miss!
Morgan throws a sloppy body shot
and Matsuda counters with a lovely straight right hand!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
Morgan swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Morgan misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Morgan misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Matsuda, as that shot connected.
Morgan throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Morgan is looking to slow Matsuda down with leg kicks.
Morgan jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Morgan keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Matsuda.
Jab, jab by Matsuda - just one landing.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Morgan.
Morgan throws a looping overhand right but Matsuda ducks down to avoid it. #T3#
Morgan cracks Matsuda with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Matsuda checks the leg kick nicely there.
Matsuda defending well as Morgan loads up on a big left hand.
Morgan uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
A low kick from Morgan is predictable there #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Morgan's guard.
Morgan has Matsuda pulled in close to control his posture.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing.
Morgan trying to control the position here.
Matsuda postures up.
Morgan wants to sweep here but Matsuda controlling him for the moment.
Matsuda trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat. #T4##SUB#
Matsuda drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Matsuda jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Morgan working a defensive guard here.
Morgan pulls Matsuda in close to his closed guard and prevents Matsuda from doing any damage or advancing position.
Matsuda engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Morgan trying to control the position here.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Morgan is keeping the position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Arthur Morgan will probably get the nod.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Morgan connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Morgan throws a body shot but no joy.
Morgan stuns Matsuda with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Matsuda looks to score with a jab to the body but Morgan is just out of range.
A nice side step and Morgan releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Matsuda pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
A left lands for Morgan.
Morgan misses with a looping right.
Morgan slips under a jab from Matsuda.
Morgan throws a hook but Matsuda blocks it.
Matsuda moves out of range of the leg kick from Morgan.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Morgan jabs Matsuda right on the nose. Matsuda blinks but takes it well.
Morgan lands the left hand.#TD#
Matsuda shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Matsuda showed some decent athleticism there.

Morgan kicks off Matsuda and gets to his feet. #T1#
Matsuda throws a body punch but Morgan moves out of range.
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
Morgan is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda looks to throw the jab but Morgan is out of range.
Matsuda takes a swing at Morgan's ribcage but misses.
Matsuda fails with a takedown attempt.
Matsuda blocks a head kick by Morgan.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Morgan.
Matsuda steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Morgan.
Morgan feints and then cracks Matsuda's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Matsuda down.
Matsuda misses with a straight left. #T2#
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Morgan as he avoids it easily.
Morgan misses with an uppercut
and Matsuda counters with a left to the body.
Matsuda slips a straight right by Morgan.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
A nice inside leg kick there by Morgan. That's going to slow Matsuda down.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nice body punch from Matsuda.
Morgan throws a one two combo.
Morgan throws a wild body kick that Matsuda sees coming a mile off.
Matsuda displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Morgan throws out the jab.
Arthur Morgan seems to be getting the better of the standup.#TD#
Matsuda drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Morgan can't do much from the bottom here.
Matsuda scores with punches from side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Check out the look on Matsuda's face as he threw that strike - that's one determined fighter!
Morgan is looking for a sweep.#T3#
Morgan taking punishment in the form of punches.
Morgan being controlled for a moment.
Matsuda working the head with strikes.
Matsuda in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Morgan is trying to control Matsuda's posture but Matsuda avoids it.
Matsuda controls the position.
Matsuda working the body and head with strikes.
Morgan controls the position for a moment.
Morgan wants to control but Matsuda postures up.
A bit of a lull in the action here.#T4#
Matsuda tries to advance to mount but Morgan denies him.
Matsuda working the ground and pound.
Matsuda lands a few punches from side control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Morgan is trying to get back to half guard.
Matsuda looks up at the clock and then as Morgan takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Matsuda smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
Morgan is trying to control Matsuda's posture but Matsuda avoids it.
Matsuda cracks Morgan with a big elbow.
Morgan is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Matsuda's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Morgan is pressing down on Matsuda's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses.
Matsuda looking to sit in guard and control but Morgan gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#SUB#
Matsuda had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Morgan defends it easily.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Arthur Morgan will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Morgan scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Matsuda doesn't seem bothered though.
The fighters circle momentarily. Matsuda darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Morgan's jab looks to have found its range, popping Matsuda under the eye.
Matsuda throws a big shot that misses.
Matsuda blocks a low kick nicely.
Matsuda defending well as Morgan loads up on a big left hand.
Matsuda throwing a counter right hand but Morgan manages to avoid it.
Matsuda dips to his left and cracks Morgan with an uppercut!
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda slips a jab from Morgan.
Matsuda works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Matsuda throws a hook but Morgan blocks it.
Morgan throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda misses with a lunging right hand
and Morgan counters with a left to the body. #T1#
Matsuda catches Morgan with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Morgan on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Morgan moves away.
Morgan thuds a mid kick into his opponent's body. That will wear on Matsuda if he has to take too many more of those.
Nice defenses there by Morgan.
Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Morgan.
Morgan connects with a solid leg kick.
Morgan throws a low kick, looking for Matsuda's leg but Matsuda calmly moves out of range.
Morgan misses with an uppercut. Matsuda saw that one coming.
Morgan lands with a thumping leg kick.
Morgan misses with a straight right.
Matsuda changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Morgan tries to avoid it but Matsuda manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Morgan to the ground. Morgan escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Matsuda thows a left - swing and a miss!
Matsuda connects with a looping right hand. #T2#
Matsuda shoots in looking for a takedown. Morgan tries to sprawl out of it but Matsuda keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Morgan manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Arthur Morgan is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Matsuda fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Morgan moves out of range as Matsuda strikes.
Matsuda avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
A jab from Morgan does it's job there.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Morgan missing with a left hand there. Matsuda was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Matsuda feinted with a counter takedown.
Nice straight punches there by Morgan. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Morgan.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Morgan.
Matsuda shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Morgan counters with a nice leg kick. #T3#
A slow jab from Morgan misses its intended target.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Morgan cracks Matsuda with a right hand to the side of the head.
Matsuda avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Morgan looks to throw the jab but Matsuda is out of range.
Matsuda checks a leg kick.
Morgan attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Morgan fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Matsuda moves out of range of the strikes.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Morgan sprawls and moves away.
Matsuda tries for a takedown but Morgan sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Tanaka Matsuda has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#TD#
Matsuda looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Matsuda is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact. #SUB#
Matsuda is trying to work a guillotine from the top, or something like that? Don't know how he thinks he's going to get a finish from there.
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses. #T4#
Morgan looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Morgan controls Matsuda momentarily but Matsuda frees himself.
Arthur Morgan is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Matsuda looking to sit in guard and control but Morgan gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB#
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.

And that's the end of the fight!
Arthur Morgan comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Morgan winning every round here. Surely the decision will go his way and he'll pick up a well deserved decision victory. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Shigeki Fujiwara scores the fight 27:30
Judge Yasuomi Hirokawa scores the fight 27:30
Judge Yukihiro Shimada scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by split decision... Arthur Morgan!

Arthur Morgan thanked the fans post fight for their support.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 106     
Date:   Dec 29, 2021
#R1#
Ainsworth lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Matsuda 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.
Wilfred Ainsworth seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Ainsworth on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Matsuda stuns Ainsworth with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Nice cross by Matsuda.
Nice defenses there by Matsuda.
Ainsworth lands a jab to the nose.
Ainsworth is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
Ainsworth misses with a body shot.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Ainsworth avoids it well and moves away.
Matsuda checks a low kick from Ainsworth.
Matsuda fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Ainsworth looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Ainsworth lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Matsuda at a distance.
Ainsworth attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Ainsworth avoids it well and moves away.
Ainsworth throws a chopping leg kick but Matsuda manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Matsuda is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Matsuda throws out a powerful jab.
Ainsworth scoring well with a low kick there.
Matsuda swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Ainsworth counters with a straight right hand.#T1#
Ainsworth is looking to slow Matsuda down with leg kicks.
Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Ainsworth.
Ainsworth misses with a leg kick #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Ainsworth's guard.

Ainsworth has butterfly guard. He's looking to stand up here. He pushes Matsuda off him and springs to his feet nicely. The crowd applauds.
Matsuda smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Ainsworth throws a leg kick which misses Matsuda's front leg but catches the back leg as Matsuda tries to avoid it.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut.
Matsuda 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!
A jab from Matsuda misses.
Ainsworth scores with a hook to the body. Matsuda takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Ainsworth scores with a leg kick.
Ainsworth slips a straight right by Matsuda.
A low kick lands for Ainsworth.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Ainsworth lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Ainsworth throws a leg kick #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Matsuda. #T2#
Matsuda scoring with punches to the head and body.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Ainsworth looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but Ainsworth is retaining full guard.
Ainsworth pulls Matsuda in close to prevent any damage.
Ainsworth is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Ainsworth is pulling down on Matsuda's head. It's preventing any offense from Matsuda, at least for the moment.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Ainsworth is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T3#
Matsuda stopping the sweep attempt from Ainsworth.
Matsuda lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Ainsworth is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
Matsuda lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Matsuda postures up.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Matsuda's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Ainsworth 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.
Ainsworth has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Ainsworth looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T4#
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Ainsworth keeps moving.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
Matsuda 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. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Ainsworth with a nice calf kick.
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Wilfred Ainsworth is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Matsuda throws a looping overhand right but Ainsworth ducks down to avoid it.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Ainsworth thumps Matsuda with a low kick.
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Ainsworth moves away and avoids it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Wilfred Ainsworth will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Ainsworth scores with a push kick.
Ainsworth looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.
Matsuda is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Ainsworth dips down and scores with a jab to the body.#TD#
Matsuda drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
You can see the frustration on Ainsworth's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Ainsworth is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Matsuda off and has taken his back!
Ainsworth slows the pace down here. Having a little breather whilst he's in a dominant position, looking to rest and regain some energy, ready to go for the finish.
Ainsworth has the hooks in. Matsuda is trying to push off one leg but he has to do so cautiously to avoid being submitted.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Good control from Ainsworth.
Ainsworth is trying to stick to Matsuda's back but Matsuda is turning into Ainsworth. He's managed to reverse the position - now he's in Ainsworth's guard. Polite applause from the crowd in appreciation of some nice Jiu Jitsu by Matsuda.
Matsuda will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Ainsworth has control of Matsuda's left arm, preventing Matsuda from doing any damage. #T1#
Ainsworth working a defensive guard here.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Ainsworth keeps moving.
Matsuda content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Ainsworth wants to sweep but no luck.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Ainsworth is keeping the position.
Ainsworth is controlling Matsuda's posture.
Ainsworth is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Matsuda is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Matsuda trying to control but Ainsworth is working from the bottom. #T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Matsuda is pushing down on Ainsworth's leg trying to pass to half guard. Ainsworth is fighting to maintain full guard but Matsuda has managed to sneak the leg through.
Ainsworth blocking the ground and pound attempt from Matsuda.
Ainsworth is looking to control Matsuda's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Ainsworth avoid being mounted?
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda prevents Ainsworth from standing back up.
Ainsworth trying to control here.
Matsuda is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Matsuda looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Ainsworth is refusing to be controlled, as Matsuda sits in half guard. #T3#
Matsuda working Ainsworth over with strikes.
Ainsworth trying to control from the bottom.
Matsuda scores with a couple of good hammerfists.#SUB#
Matsuda seems to be working for a kimura but Ainsworth defends the submission attempt.
Ainsworth moves into full guard. #SUB#
Matsuda is trying to work a guillotine from the top, or something like that? Don't know how he thinks he's going to get a finish from there.
Matsuda throws a strike but Ainsworth rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVB##T4#
Ainsworth trying to control but Matsuda is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Ainsworth passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Ainsworth is moving around in side control but his primary objective seems to be to maintain the position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
That's time! Matsuda's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3#
Matsuda feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Ainsworths jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Ainsworth but Ainsworth pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Ainsworth is looking to slow Matsuda down with leg kicks.
Matsuda has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Ainsworth.
Ainsworth misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Matsuda changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda takes a swing at Ainsworth's ribcage but misses.
Jab by Ainsworth.
A nice leg kick lands there from Ainsworth.
Wilfred Ainsworth seems to be getting the better of the standup.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Ainsworth explodes with a nice body kick and back out of range. Nice work.
Ainsworth fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Matsuda checks it well. #TD#
Matsuda closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Ainsworth did well to prevent Matsuda getting side control.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#SUB#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Ainsworth has managed to free his arm - good work. #T1#
Ainsworth works his way to full guard. Good work.
Matsuda advances to half guard.
Ainsworth tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg. #SUB2#
Ainsworth actively working from the bottom here.
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes.
Ainsworth trying to control here.
Ainsworth preventing any damage for now, controlling his opponent's head.
Matsuda slows the pace down in half guard. #T2#
Matsuda missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes.
Ainsworth tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.
Matsuda drops an elbow to the side of Ainsworth's head.
Ainsworth is looking to get full guard. It looks like he might be successful but at the last minute Matsuda jumps into side control!
Ainsworth is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Ainsworth is looking for a sweep.
Ainsworth is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Matsuda off and has taken his back!
Matsuda tries to escape the position. #T3#
Matsuda tries to escape the position - he's now mounted. Is that better or worse? Hard to tell!
Matsuda keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Ainsworth looking to control and managing it successfully.
Matsuda really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Ainsworth controlling from the full mount. #T4#
Matsuda wants to hold on but Ainsworth pushes him away.
Matsuda is working to get back to half guard.
Ainsworth tries to control but Matsuda wriggling away.
Matsuda working to try and regain half guard.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Wilfred Ainsworth.
I think Ainsworth has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ben Hemmingworth scores the fight 28:29
Judge Summer Carpenter scores the fight 29:28
Judge Topper Green scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by split decision... Wilfred Ainsworth!

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

 

Event: SPPS 98: Tokyo Turkey Bowl!     
Date:   Nov 26, 2021
#R1#
Machado with a nice cross.#CUT#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut
and Machado counters with a nice uppercut.
Matsuda throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Machado stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Machado is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Matsuda.
A slow jab from Machado misses its intended target.
Matsuda moves out of range of the body kick.
Matsuda uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Machado.
Nice uppercut there from Matsuda.
Matsuda lands a jab.
Machado keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Matsuda jabs Machado to the body, keeping him at a distance.#T1#
The fighters circling - Matsuda throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Matsuda 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.
Matsuda misses with a lunging right hand
and Machado counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Machado uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Machado's corner calls for a 1-2. Machado obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Matsuda takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Matsuda throws a lazy right hand but Machado sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
It looked like Machado wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Machado jabs at Matsuda's body.
Machado throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda lands a glancing blow to the side of Machado's head.
Matsuda connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Machado's hands.
Matsuda with a jab.#T2#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Machado keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Machado uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Machado throws a jab when Matsuda was well out of range.
Machado throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Machado uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Matsuda.
Matsuda scores with the left hand. Machado knows he should have avoided that one.
Machado takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Good shot there by Machado.
Machado throws a leg kick #TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Machado is controlling Matsuda's trapped leg to prevent Matsuda from advancing to side control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda with a momentary lay and pray from half guard. #T3#
Machado is doing well to control the position and prevent Matsuda from advancing to side control.
Matsuda seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Machado does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but Machado defending well. #SUB2#
Matsuda seems to be working for a kimura but Machado defends the submission attempt.
Matsuda working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.
Machado is holding on to half guard well.
Matsuda working over Machado with some ground and pound. Machado looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#T4#
Machado is refusing to be controlled, as Matsuda sits in half guard.
Machado blocking the ground and pound attempt from Matsuda.
Matsuda not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Matsuda throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Ground and pound from Matsuda.
Machado holds on for dear life, maintaining half guard for now.
Machado might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.#SUB2#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Machado defends it well.
Matsuda winds up and cracks Machado with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Tanaka Matsuda will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda'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#
Matsuda listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Machado.
Machado looks for the body kick but Matsuda saw that one coming.
Matsuda lands a body shot.
A nice inside leg kick there by Machado. That's going to slow Matsuda down.
Machado pivots, looking for a leg kick but Matsuda is out of range and Machado settles back down.
Machado throws a shot to the body.
Wanderson Machado is winning the standup battle so far.
Matsuda swings for the body but Machado moves out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Machado lands a nice hook to Matsuda's body. Matsuda takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Matsuda uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Machado.
Matsuda tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Matsuda has a takedown stuffed.#T1#
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Machado.
Machado throws a shot from downtown. Matsuda moves away and avoids it.
Machado connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Matsuda jabs at Machado's body.
Machado throws a looping overhand right but Matsuda ducks down to avoid it.
Matsuda uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Machado.
Machado throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Machado with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Matsuda misses with a jab to the body
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #CUT#That has opened up Tanaka Matsuda's cut even more.
Machado misses with a telegraphed body shot #TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a single leg into guard. Machado didn't expect that.
Machado is looking to stand back up but Matsuda counters by passing into half guard. Oops... bit sloppy there by Machado. #T2#
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#REVR#
Machado tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg.
Matsuda lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Matsuda trying to control from half guard but Machado is working away.
Matsuda working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.
Machado pushes Matsuda off looking to stand but Matsuda dives back in and keeps control.
Machado tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.#T3##SUB2#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Machado has managed to free his arm - good work. #SUB2#
Machado is defending against the submission attempts here by Matsuda.
Matsuda tries to pass the half guard into mount. Machado knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Machado gets back to full guard. #T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Matsuda throwing strikes from guard but Machado blocks nicely.
Matsuda with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Machado looking to control.
Machado wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Matsuda with a flurry of punches that miss.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Matsuda forces his way into half guard.
Machado is trying to get back to full guard.
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 Wanderson Machado will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R3#
Matsuda misses with an uppercut.
Nice body kick there by Machado.
Machado lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Matsuda at a distance.
Matsuda walks into a jab.
Machado on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Matsuda lands an overhand right.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda lands a lovely overhand right.
Matsuda cracks Machado with a right hand to the side of the head.
Machado lands a body shot.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Machado takes a jab right on the kisser. #T1#
Matsuda will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Machado looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.
And Matsuda tries to counter it with a takedown but Machado pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Machado swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda misses with a hook
and Machado counters with a nice uppercut.
Matsuda swings for the body but Machado moves out of range.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda blocks a jab.
Machado misses with an uppercut. Matsuda saw that one coming.
Matsuda let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Matsuda swings widly with a right hand
and Machado counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Machado loads up on a big right hand but Matsuda slips the punch.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Machado moves out of range.
Matsuda displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Machado throws out the jab. #T2#
Machado throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range.
Matsuda has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.
Matsuda misses with a left hand
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
A low kick lands for Machado. #TD2#
Matsuda gets a takedown into half guard.

Machado makes some distance and scrambles quickly back to his feet. Nice work!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Machado tries to land a front kick but Matsuda steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Machado looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Machado moves out of range of the strikes.
An attempted straight right counter from Machado misses the target.
Machado fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Matsuda has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.#T3#
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
A jab from Machado finds it's way through Matsuda's defenses.
Machado lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Matsuda scores with a crisp jab that stopped Machado in his tracks.
Machado thows a left - swing and a miss!
Machado displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matsuda throws out the jab.
Machado fires out a quick counter leg kick but Matsuda just manages to avoid it.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Machado.#CUT#The cut above Tanaka Matsuda's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
Machado misses with a low kick.
Machado throws a nice looking combination but Matsuda bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Matsuda scores with a punch to the head.
Machado connects with the punch.#T4#
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Matsuda takes a shot right to the bread basket.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Machado missing with a left hand there. Matsuda was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Machado defending well as Matsuda loads up on a big left hand.
Machado just misses with a punch to the body.
Machado swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
Machado waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with a left hand
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Machado.
A shot to the body from Matsuda misses
and Machado counters with a lovely straight right hand!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Wanderson Machado clearly takes that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R4#
Machado fails in his attempt to clinch.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Matsuda pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Machado uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Matsuda comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Matsuda throws a poor cross that misses
and Machado counters with a slapping leg kick.
Matsuda checks a leg kick nicely.
Nice shot by Machado.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Machado.
Matsuda misses with a hook. Machado ducked under it nicely.
It looked like Machado wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
A big left from Matsuda misses. #T1#
Machado gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Matsuda.
Machado steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matsuda.
Machado appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
A shot to the body from Matsuda misses
and Machado counters with a left to the body.
Matsuda on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Machado scores with a leg kick.
Machado connects with a crisp jab.
Machado throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Matsuda is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Matsuda slips under a jab.#KD#
Machado lands a big head kick that sends Matsuda tumbling to the mat! Machado takes a step backwards and waves Matsuda back to his feet - he wants the finish!#ROC#Matsuda is rocked!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Matsuda ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Matsuda is still on wobbly legs! Can Machado finish him?
Matsuda fails with a takedown attempt from distance.#T2#
Matsuda shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Machado pinned against the cage. Machado gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Matsuda is absolutely dripping with sweat - he looks exhausted.
Matsuda takes a push kick to the midsection and stumbles backwards.
Matsuda seems to have recovered his senses.
Machado lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.#CUT#Tanaka Matsuda's cut is absolute horrible now. This looks like something out of a horror film with blood covering both fighters.
Matsuda has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Machado fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
A jab from Matsuda finds it's way through Machado's defenses.
Matsuda throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Matsuda's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.#KD#
Machado lands a big uppercut and Matsuda crumbles to the floor! The ref thinks about stopping the fight but Matsuda looks OK. Machado waves Matsuda back to his feet!

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:05 of round 4, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Wanderson Machado!
Wanderson Machado retains his middleweight title!
Wanderson Machado seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: SPPS 93 - Mischief Night!     
Date:   Oct 30, 2021
#R1#
Jukassa takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Jukassa avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Jukassa now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Jukassa lands with a shot to the body.
Jukassa avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Jukassa! But no joy.
Matsuda has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Gunner's School of Combat in the buildup to the fight.
Matsuda throws a jab but it's blocked by Jukassa.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
Matsuda misses with a body shot
and Jukassa connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Jukassa slips a jab from Matsuda.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda scores with a decent looking hook.
Matsuda connects with a right hand. Jukassa shakes it off.
Matsuda swings widly with a right hand
and Jukassa counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#T1#
Jukassa needs to keep his hands up - Matsuda had a free shot at his head there.
Matsuda misses with a looping left.
Jukassa looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Jukassa dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda takes a swing at Jukassa's ribcage but misses.
It seemed like Jukassa was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Matsuda misses with a looping right.
Jukassa looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Jukassa is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Matsuda with a body shot.
Matsuda misses the body punch
enabling Jukassa to counter with a crisp jab.
Matsuda dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Matsuda misses with a looping left.
Jukassa cracks Matsuda with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#T2#
Jukassa cracks a nice hook into Matsuda's ribs.
Jukassa uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.
Jukassa swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda scores with a hook to the body. Jukassa takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Matsuda shoots for a double leg takedown but Jukassa sprawls well. He's pushed Matsuda's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Jukassa looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nice uppercut there from Jukassa.
Matsuda lands a jab to Jukassa's midsection.
Matsuda lands a jab to Jukassa's midsection.
Matsuda lands a really nice looking cross but Jukassa seems unphased.
Matsuda misses with a shot to the body
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Jukassa on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot. #T3#
Matsuda misses with a left hand
and Jukassa counters with a left to the body.
Matsuda throws a sloppy body shot
and Jukassa counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Matsuda thinking.
Matsuda gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Jukassa counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Matsuda tests Jukassa's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Matsuda throws a big shot that misses.
A little jabbing left from Jukassa on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Nice uppercut there from Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with an uppercut.
Matsuda connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.#T4#
Matsuda shoots in and drives through. Jukassa sprawls well.
A countering left hand to the body from Jukassa misses.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Jukassa.
A countering left hand to the body from Jukassa misses.
Matsuda misses with a straight right.
Matsuda swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Jukassa doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Jukassa takes one to the chin there.#TD#
Matsuda closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Jukassa quickly recovers to half guard.
Jukassa tries to kick Matsuda off in order to stand up. Matsuda Avoids the leg push though and dives into side control.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Jukassa wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda drags him back down.
Jukassa takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Matsuda tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Matsuda has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Jukassa wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda drags him back down.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that 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.#R2#
Matsuda looks to score with a jab to the body but Jukassa is just out of range.
Matsuda comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Tanaka Matsuda is winning the standup battle so far.
Jukassa listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Matsuda throws an off balance right hand
and Jukassa cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Matsuda throws a hook but Jukassa blocks it.
Matsuda misses with a left hand
and Jukassa counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Matsuda thinking.
Matsuda throws a hook to the side of Jukassa's head but Jukassa sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda misses with a left hand
and Jukassa connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Jukassa ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
Matsuda digs a good hook to Jukassa's body. #T1#
Matsuda has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Matsuda there as he acknowledges the shot.
A jab from Matsuda misses.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Jukassa! But no joy.
Matsuda cracks Jukassa with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Jukassa can do to turn this around?
Jukassa lands a nice looking body shot.
Matsuda misses with a body shot
enabling Jukassa to counter with a crisp jab.
Matsuda throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Nice defenses there by Jukassa.
Jukassa let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Matsuda throws a lazy uppercut
and Jukassa counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Matsuda misses with a wild body shot.
It seemed like Jukassa was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.#T2#
A jab from Jukassa does it's job there.
Matsuda misses with a right hand
and Jukassa counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Jukassa's coach down at Cope's was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Jukassa's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
Matsuda throws a right hand that misses
and Jukassa counters with a nice body shot.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
A swing and a miss from Jukassa.
Matsuda misses with a hook to the body
and Jukassa counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Matsuda fails with a takedown attempt.
Jukassa swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Jukassa keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Jukassa uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Matsuda.#T3#
A jab from Matsuda misses.
Jukassa looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Matsuda misses the jab.
Matsuda throws a predictable looking body shot
and Jukassa counters with a nice uppercut.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Jukassa manages to avoid it.
Matsuda fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Jukassa now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Matsuda lands a nice looking body shot.
Matsuda misses the body punch
and Jukassa counters with a lovely straight right hand!#T4#
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Jukassa let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Matsuda misses with a hook
and Jukassa counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Jukassa with a jab.
Matsuda swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Jukassa.
The fighters circle momentarily. Matsuda darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Matsuda misses with a left hand
and Jukassa cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matsuda misses with a telegraphed body shot
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Matsuda misses with a hook. Jukassa ducked under it nicely.
Jukassa swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
A big left from Matsuda misses.
Jukassa is looking for the big counter here.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Zett Jukassa showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! Let's get this one finished - here comes the final round!#R3#
Matsuda throws a hook but Jukassa blocks it.
Good standup being displayed there by Matsuda as he connects with a hook.
Jukassa keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Jukassa! But no joy.
Matsuda scores with a hook to the body. Jukassa takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Matsuda connects with a right hand. Jukassa shakes it off.
Jukassa's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Matsuda connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Jukassa scrambles back to his feet.
Jukassa slips under a jab from Matsuda.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jukassa uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Jukassa swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Matsuda connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Jukassa momentarily.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Jukassa moves out of range.
Jukassa doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Matsuda looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.#T1#
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Jukassa appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.#TD#
Matsuda gets the takedown into side control.
Matsuda advances to full mount.
Matsuda lands with some strikes.
Jukassa is trying to stand but he's just given Matsuda his back.
Jukassa is trying to stand back up. #SUB#
Matsuda is working hard for the rear naked choke here.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#T2#
Jukassa is trying to get back to his feet but he's not managed it yet.
Matsuda lands an elbow to the side of the head. #SUB#
Matsuda is persistently looking for the submission but Jukassa is defending it well.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Jukassa is trying to get back to his feet but he's not managed it yet. #SUB#
Jukassa is in a bad position with Matsuda working for a choke. Jukassa manages to spin nicely into guard and the danger is over for the moment. #SUB#
Matsuda isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Jukassa stacks Matsuda on his neck as he steps over and passes to the side. He's now in a much more dominant position where he can look to do some serious damage. Nice move by Jukassa!#T3#
Matsuda is trying to improve his position.
Matsuda manages to work his way to half guard, despite Jukassa's best efforts.
Jukassa is trying to get back to his feet now but his leg is trapped.
Matsuda is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Jukassa is trying to get back to his feet now but his leg is trapped. #T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Jukassa has decided to stand back up but his arm is trapped. Whilst he's worrying about his arm, Matsuda works to full guard.
Matsuda bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Jukassa's guard. #REVR##SUB#
Matsuda drops back for a leg but he's not going to get it - he lets go and Jukassa dives on top into guard.#REVB##SUB#
Matsuda is active off his back here, looking for submissions. #SUB#
Matsuda has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Jukassa can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Matsuda 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 Ben Hemmingworth scores the fight 29:28
Judge Winston Howard scores the fight 29:28
Judge Skip Squint scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

A relieved looking Tanaka Matsuda 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: Sucker Punch Pro Series 87     
Date:   Sep 29, 2021
#R1#
Matsuda fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Patterson on the side of the head.
Patterson misses the shot to the body. #TD#
Matsuda scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
We've been hearing that Matsuda has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Patterson is trying to maintain the position but Matsuda is very close to passing his half guard.
Matsuda not doing much here.
Patterson avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Matsuda.
Patterson is concentrating on defense, preventing Matsuda from advancing position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Matsuda throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man. #SUB#
Matsuda is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Patterson is just riding it out for now. Matsuda eventually gives up the hold.
Patterson moves into full guard. #T1##SUB2#
Patterson looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Matsuda passes into side control.
Matsuda wants to control but Patterson is keeping him busy.
Patterson is looking for a sweep.#T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Matsuda working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Matsuda working the head with strikes.
Matsuda working the body and head with strikes.
Matsuda landing a few strikes.
Patterson is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Matsuda's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Patterson keeping hold of Matsuda's head, controlling as best he can.
Patterson trying to control here.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Patterson is looking for a sweep. Matsuda is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#T3#
Matsuda lands with a punch from half guard.
Matsuda working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that. #SUB#
Matsuda seems to be trying to get a kimura but instead Patterson has recovered full guard.
Patterson is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Matsuda is controlling him.
Patterson has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Patterson is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#T4#
Matsuda postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Patterson is trying to control the position but Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda distracts Patterson with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Patterson tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Patterson managing to control the position. #SUB2#
Patterson has his foot on Matsuda's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Matsuda works his way back into a safe position though.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Patterson takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Patterson misses with a looping right.
Matsuda connects with a nice looking jab.
Matsuda takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Matsuda takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Patterson throws a low kick but Matsuda moves out of range easily.
Matsuda looks to land a right hand but Patterson moved out of range.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
Patterson appeared to try and counter that last move with a leg kick.
Matsuda shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Patterson defends it nicely.
A little jabbing left from Patterson on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Patterson's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Matsuda connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Patterson scrambles back to his feet.#T1#
Matsuda connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Matsuda needs to keep his hands up - Patterson had a free shot at his head there.
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Patterson manages to avoid it.
Patterson looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.
Patterson lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Matsuda circles away quickly and effectively.
Matsuda is using his reach advantage well here, landing the more effective single shots from range.
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Patterson moves away and avoids it.
Matsuda checks a low kick from Patterson.
Matsuda just misses with a punch to the body.
Patterson avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Patterson looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Matsuda uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Patterson.
Patterson looks to land a left hand but Matsuda moved out of range nicely.
Matsuda misses with a left hand
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #T2#
Patterson throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Patterson moves out of range. #TD#
Matsuda closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Patterson did well to prevent Matsuda getting side control.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Matsuda not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Patterson is concentrating on defense, preventing Matsuda from advancing position.
Patterson is trying to get back to full guard.
Matsuda lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Patterson wants to get back to full guard.
Matsuda is pressing down on Patterson's thigh, looking to free his foot. Patterson is holding on for now.
Matsuda uses his free foot to push down on Patterson's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Patterson.
Matsuda will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.#T3#
Matsuda cracks Patterson with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Matsuda landing strikes from the mount.
Patterson is wriggling around trying to escape.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Patterson can do to turn this around?
Matsuda unloading with bombs!
Patterson is trying to escape the mount.
Patterson wants to control but Matsuda is having none of it.#T4#
Matsuda landing strikes from the mount.
Patterson is looking to improve his position but Matsuda isn't that keen on the idea.
Tanaka Matsuda overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Matsuda lands a big elbow.
Patterson is bucking up trying to escape but Matsuda cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
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!
Patterson is bucking up trying to escape but Matsuda cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
Patterson keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
BOOM! Matsuda connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Matsuda lands a nice shot to the head.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
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#
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Patterson walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Patterson.
Matsuda changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Patterson lands a leg kick that knocks Matsuda off balance momentarily.
Patterson is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Matsuda walks into a left hand.
Patterson's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Matsuda connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Patterson scrambles back to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Patterson takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Patterson ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
Matsuda uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Patterson.
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
A nice side step and Patterson releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.#T1#
Matsuda fails with the takedown.
Patterson takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Matsuda is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Patterson moves away and avoids it.
Matsuda throws out a loose jab but Patterson uses good head movement to avoid it.
Matsuda jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Good exchange - Matsuda coming out on top.
Patterson thows a left - swing and a miss!
Matsuda misses with a looping left.
Matsuda avoids the body shot from Patterson.
Derek Patterson has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
A slow jab from Matsuda misses its intended target.
Derek Patterson is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#TD#
Patterson tries to sprawl but Matsuda drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Patterson tries to roll over but Matsuda keeps him under control.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Matsuda looks to land a strike but Patterson avoids it nicely and regains full guard.
Matsuda throwing strikes from guard but Patterson blocks nicely.
Matsuda controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Matsuda forces his way into half guard.#T3#
Patterson blocking the ground and pound attempt from Matsuda. #SUB#
Matsuda is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Patterson is looking to improve his position.
Patterson taking some punishment here, with Matsuda in his half guard.
Ground and pound from Matsuda.
Matsuda seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Patterson does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #SUB#
Matsuda is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg. #T4#
Matsuda prevents Patterson from improving his position.
Patterson wants to control but Matsuda is keeping busy.
Matsuda lands strikes from half guard.
Tanaka Matsuda is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Patterson is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB#
Matsuda wants to work for an arm triangle but Patterson is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Patterson wants to improve his position but Matsuda is controlling well.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Matsuda 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 Francis DeMontford scores the fight 30:27
Judge Winston Howard scores the fight 30:27
Judge Topper Green scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

Tanaka Matsuda seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 80     
Date:   Aug 21, 2021
#R1#
Matsuda uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Doe.
Doe scores with a decent looking hook.
Matsuda scores with a jab. Doe acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Matsuda misses with a straight right.
Matsuda connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
Matsuda 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.
Doe throws a leg kick #TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into side control. Doe won't be happy with that.
Matsuda working the strikes but Doe uses the opportunity to regain half guard.
Doe 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.
Doe tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg.
Matsuda stalling away here and it's allowed Doe to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Doe is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T1#
Doe controls Matsuda momentarily but Matsuda frees himself.
Doe working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Matsuda.
Matsuda lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Matsuda trying to move into half guard but instead Doe has managed to sweep!#REVR#
Doe would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard.
Doe looking to pass the guard.
Doe tries to stand but Matsuda is controlling from the bottom. #SUB2#
Matsuda is looking to cinch up a triangle. Doe throws the leg off to one side though and gets in tight to Matsuda's body to avoid the submission. Matsuda has instead reached around Doe's neck and now has a guillotine! Oh, this is biiiig trouble! Matsuda arches his back and squeezes and forces the tap from his hapless opponent.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Tanaka Matsuda!
A very excited looking Tanaka Matsuda 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: Sucker Punch Pro Series 71     
Date:   Jul 10, 2021
#R1#
Marka stuns Matsuda with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Marka throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Matsuda has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Gunner's School of Combat in the buildup to the fight.
Marka connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Luka Marka seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nice shot lands for Marka.
Marka gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Matsuda.
A cross from Marka lands.#TD2#
Marka fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Matsuda to the ground. Marka is now in Matsuda's guard.
Matsuda wants to improve his position but instead Marka has moved into half guard.
Marka misses with a head shot. Matsuda uses the momentum to regain 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!
Marka is fighting to break Matsuda's control of his arms but Matsuda is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
Matsuda is trying to control the position but Marka postures up. #SUB#
Marka avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #SUB#
Matsuda had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Marka defends it easily.#T1#
Marka wants to control from the top but Matsuda keeps moving.
Marka stands up over Matsuda, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Marka sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Matsuda's guard.
Marka is looking to advance position but Matsuda won't allow it.
Marka winds up and cracks Matsuda with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Marka thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Marka thows a huge punch but Matsuda dodges it nicely. #SUB#
Matsuda is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Marka pulls his head out easily.
Marka thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Matsuda's head.
Marka prevents Matsuda from improving his position.#T2#
Matsuda controlling the position for now.
Marka missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Marka tries to pass to full mount but Matsuda defends it.
Matsuda is looking to control Marka's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Matsuda avoid being mounted?
Matsuda gets back to full guard.
Marka pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Matsuda is keeping the position for now.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Matsuda is looking for a triangle but Marka pushes his legs off easily.
Marka tries to free his leg and advance position but Matsuda is retaining full guard.
Marka postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect. #T3#
Marka throwing strikes from guard but Matsuda blocks nicely.
Marka throws a strike but Matsuda rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVR#
Marka is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Matsuda scoring with some ground and pound.
Marka looking to hit a scissor sweep but Matsuda is one step ahead there.
Marka is looking to sweep but instead, Matsuda has passed into half guard.
Matsuda lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Marka tries to regain full guard. Instead though, Matsuda has advanced to mount. Uh oh. #T4#
Matsuda lands a shot to the body, followed up by a shot to the exposed head of his trapped opponent.
Marka tries to reverse the position but Matsuda maintains control.
Marka slips a leg in and gets back to half guard.
Matsuda lands strikes from half guard.
Matsuda working Marka over with strikes.
Marka is trying to get back to full guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda is looking to stall here but Marka recovers full guard.
Marka keeping full guard, as Matsuda tries to pass.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Luka Marka will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Marka tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Matsuda swivels and escapes.
Marka shoots in for a takedown but Matsuda shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Matsuda ducks right into an uppercut from Marka.
Marka avoids the body shot from Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with a straight left.
Matsuda displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Marka throws out the jab.
Marka lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Marka swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda misses with a hook. Marka ducked under it nicely.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#TD2#
Marka 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.
Matsuda preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Marka pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Matsuda is keeping the position for now. #SUB#
Matsuda throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #T1#
Matsuda looking for a sweep. Not yet Matsuda, not yet.
Marka cracks Matsuda with a solid left hand.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Matsuda is on top in guard. #REVR#
Marka lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Marka working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Matsuda working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Marka.
Marka must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Matsuda is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Marka's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Matsuda looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T2#
Marka working some strikes from top position.
Luka Marka has got the better of the ground game so far.
Matsuda manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Marka manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
Matsuda trying to move into half guard but instead Marka has managed to sweep!#REVB#
Matsuda is trying to control the position from the bottom.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Marka accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Marka postures up in Matsuda's guard and throws a big left but Matsuda blocks it.
Matsuda looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it. #SUB#
Marka throws a sloppy strike and Matsuda has hooked up an armbar on the loose arm! He's turned and extended fully! Marka is forced to tap! Great BJJ from Matsuda!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:57 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Tanaka Matsuda!
A victorious Tanaka Matsuda thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.
The defeated Luka Marka had this to say: 'Luka Marka took an IQ test today and scored 112.'.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 64     
Date:   Jun 05, 2021
#R1#
Matsuda throws the left hand but Machado avoids the punch easily.
Machado throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
A looping hook to the body misses from Machado. Matsuda does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matsuda let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Machado tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Machado.
Machado leaves Matsuda with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Matsuda connects with a nice looking jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Machado uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Matsuda.
Matsuda looks to land a right hand but Machado moved out of range.
Matsuda digs a good hook to Machado's body. #T1#
Matsuda takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Wanderson Machado is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
A telegraphed right hand from Matsuda misses the target.
Machado throws a body punch but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Machado moves out of range.
As Matsuda tries to get set, Machado tries to push him back and clinch up but Matsuda manages to avoid the attempt.
Machado is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Matsuda.
Machado on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Matsuda comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
A jab from Machado misses.
Matsuda misses with a telegraphed body shot
and Machado counters with a low kick, right behind Matsuda 's knee.
Jab from Matsuda.
Matsuda swings for the body but Machado moves out of range. #T2#
Matsuda ducks right into an uppercut from Machado. #CUT#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda shoots in but no luck this time.
Machado walks into a jab.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matsuda throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Machado swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
Matsuda tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Matsuda ducks under a wild hook from Machado.
Machado moves away from the strike by Matsuda.
Matsuda is using his reach advantage to land shots from outside his opponent's range.
Machado closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Machado with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Matsuda throws a looping overhand right but Machado ducks down to avoid it.
Machado swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Nice defenses there by Matsuda.#T3#
Matsuda lands an overhand right.
Matsuda avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#TD2#
Matsuda shoots in and bounces Machado off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
Machado looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Matsuda postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Matsuda lands a couple of digs.
Machado is in a tricky position. We've heard reports from his gym mates at The Zoo that he's been drilling escapes, so let's see if he can get back to his feet.
Matsuda is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Machado bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Matsuda's guard. #REVR#
Machado is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.#T4##SUB2#
Matsuda looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Machado passes into half guard.
Matsuda wants to get back to full guard.
Well, if Machado is going to just lie there, perhaps we should talk about what we're having for dinner tonight… I'm having a ham and pineapple pizza… Yum. Can't wait. #SUB2#
Matsuda actively working from the bottom here.#SUB2#
Matsuda looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Machado moves out of range as Matsuda strikes.
Machado is looking to counter punch.
Machado digs a good hook to Matsuda's body.
Machado walks into a stiff left hand from Matsuda.
Machado keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Machado bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Matsuda's head backwards.
Machado slips under a jab.
Machado swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Matsuda lands a jab to Machado's midsection.
Machado with a body punch. A glancing blow.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Machado throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
That kick from Machado tenderised Matsuda's leg. Matsuda is trying to keep his angry face on.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses. #T1#
Machado listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Machado keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Machado moves away.
Machado slips a straight right by Matsuda.
Nice sprawl there from Machado as Matsuda shoots in.
It looked like Machado was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
Machado stuffs the takedown.
Machado swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Matsuda misses with a shot to the body
enabling Machado to counter with a crisp jab.
Matsuda lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Machado.
Machado lands a body shot.
A shot to the liver by Matsuda. Beautiful body shot.#T2#
Matsuda misses the shot to the body.
Machado scores with a jab to the head.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
A big right from Machado misses.
Matsuda slips under a jab.
Machado's corner calls for a 1, 2 combination and Machado duly obliges.
Machado misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Matsuda.
Matsuda misses with a hook #KD#
and Machado counters with a crisp right hand that drops Matsuda! Machado lets Matsuda back up to his feet, looking for a finish!#ROC#Matsuda is rocked!#CUT#That has opened up Tanaka Matsuda's cut even more.
Matsuda takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Matsuda is still on wobbly legs! Can Machado finish him?
Machado throws a hook but Matsuda blocks it.
And Matsuda tries to counter it with a takedown but Machado pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Machado throws a monster overhand right that drops Matsuda! Machado follows up with more strikes from mount and the fight is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:55 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Wanderson Machado!
Wanderson Machado retains his middleweight title!
A very excited looking Wanderson Machado 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: Sucker Punch Pro Series 55     
Date:   Apr 21, 2021
#R1#
Matsuda misses with a looping right.
Karnage is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Matsuda with a body shot.
Nice jab there from Matsuda.
Matsuda walks into a jab.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Karnage was well out of range. Poor timing from Matsuda.
Karnage throws out a counter right but Matsuda avoids it with no problem.
Matsuda misses with a left hand
and Karnage makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Matsuda throws a shot to the body.
Karnage walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Karnage uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.#TD#
Matsuda is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Karnage's half guard.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Karnage is looking for a sweep. Matsuda is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Matsuda not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Matsuda throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man. #T1#
Matsuda throws a strike but Karnage avoids it easily and moves to full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Karnage lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB##SUB#
Matsuda working away from the bottom but not quite defensive enough there because Karnage has passed into half guard!
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda is looking for a sweep. Karnage is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Karnage looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Matsuda wants to improve his position but Karnage is controlling well. #SUB#
Matsuda looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#T2#
Matsuda is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Matsuda looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Matsuda is trying to maintain the position but Karnage is very close to passing his half guard.#T3#
The referee calls for the fighters to work. #SUB#
Matsuda actively working from the bottom here.
Matsuda is looking to control Karnage's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Matsuda avoid being mounted?
Matsuda wants to get back to full guard.
Matsuda wants to get back to full guard but Karnage has mounted him!
Matsuda is desperately trying to improve his position but Karnage has a good base and remains in mount.#T4#
Karnage controlling his opponent.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Matsuda is working to get back to half guard.
Matsuda is working hard here to advance position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Matsuda bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
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 Tanaka Matsuda will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Matsuda fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Karnage manages to avoid it.
Karnage ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Karnage rushes in with a sloppy looking punch #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Karnage's guard.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Karnage is keeping the position.
Matsuda postures up in Karnage's guard and throws a big left but Karnage blocks it.
Karnage has Matsuda pulled in close to control his posture.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda trying to control but Karnage is working from the bottom.
Karnage is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
Matsuda is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Karnage can do to turn this around?#T1#
Matsuda throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Karnage works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses.
Matsuda advances position into side control!
A lull in the action here as Matsuda stalls from top position.
Karnage is not content to let Matsuda control the position. #SUB#
Matsuda goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Karnage has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Matsuda but great work by Karnage.#T2#
Karnage working away.
Matsuda tries to buck Karnage off but Karnage is having none of it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Karnage is looking to take a break and control but Matsuda is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Karnage controlling the position from side mount. #T3#
Karnage's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.
Matsuda is looking for a sweep.
Matsuda gets back to half guard.
Matsuda trying to hold on to Karnage's head to control him but Karnage postures up. #T4#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Matsuda is looking for a sweep. Karnage is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions off his back.
Karnage prevents Matsuda from improving his position.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Matsuda displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Karnage throws out the jab.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Karnage avoids it well and moves away.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!#R3#
Karnage misses with a looping left.
Matsuda scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Karnage doesn't seem bothered though. #CL2#
Karnage clinches with his opponent.
Matsuda blocks an uppercut.
Karnage pushes Matsuda back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
Karnage lands a left hand that snaps the head of Matsuda backwards.
Karnage lands a body shot.
A right hook to the body lands for Karnage. #BC2#
Karnage escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Karnage jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Matsuda circles away from the clinch attempt.
Karnage just misses with a punch to the body.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Karnage moves out of range. #T1#
Matsuda throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Karnage.
Matsuda takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Jab, jab by Matsuda - just one landing. #CL2#
Karnage has Matsuda up against the cage in a clinch.
Karnage tries a body shot but Matsuda blocks it.
Karnage tries to throw a body punch but Matsuda avoids it by throwing Karnage back against the cage.
Matsuda blocks an uppercut.
Matsuda wants to stall.
Karnage lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Matsuda backwards.
Matsuda's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Lester Karnage has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Karnage throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
Karnage tries to throw a body punch but Matsuda avoids it by throwing Karnage back against the cage.
Karnage can't find room to land a body shot as Matsuda controls the action.
Karnage blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Karnage throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
Karnage keeps control of Matsuda as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks.
Karnage tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Karnage lands a right hand.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Karnage creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Karnage lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Karnage tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
A short body shot lands from Karnage as the two fighters clinch.
Karnage tries a body shot but Matsuda blocks it.
Matsuda prevents a body shot from Karnage. #T3#
Matsuda blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Karnage misses with a punch on the inside.
Matsuda jumps guard but Karnage turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.
A short body shot lands from Karnage as the two fighters clinch.
A body shot lands from Karnage.
Karnage working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Karnage lands a body punch in the clinch.
A nice right hand lands inside from Karnage.
Karnage lands a hook that snaps the head of Matsuda backwards.
Karnage lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Matsuda backwards.
Karnage lands a body punch.
Karnage lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Matsuda.
Matsuda blocks a body shot from Karnage. #T4#
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Karnage creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
A body shot lands from Karnage.
Karnage can't find room to land a body shot as Matsuda controls the action.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Karnage tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked. #BC2#
Karnage escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Tanaka Matsuda is winning the standup battle so far.
Matsuda slips under a jab.
Karnage works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.#CUT2#Tanaka Matsuda's cut is getting worse.
Karnage fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Matsuda digs a good hook to Karnage's body.
Tanaka Matsuda is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Karnage ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Karnage misses the shot to the body.
Karnage misses with the combination.

And that's the end of the fight!
Lester Karnage comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Matsuda 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 Bruno Hogan scores the fight 29:28
Judge Summer Carpenter scores the fight 29:28
Judge Hugh Johnson scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

A victorious Tanaka Matsuda thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

 

Event: Sucker Punch Pro Series 50     
Date:   Mar 27, 2021
#R1#
Blikstein fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Blikstein walks into a left hand.
Matsuda throws a poor cross that misses
and Blikstein makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Blikstein slips the punch.
A jab from Matsuda misses.
Blikstein drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Matsuda defends it well.
Good exchange - Matsuda coming out on top.#TD2#
Blikstein gets a double leg takedown into Matsuda's guard.
Matsuda trying to control the position. #SUB#
Matsuda has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Blikstein can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Blikstein scoring with punches to the head and body. #SUB#
Matsuda throws his legs up looking for a submission but Blikstein uses it to pass to side control. #T1#
Blikstein landing strikes.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Blikstein working his ground and pound in the gym. So far it seems to be working well.
A control attempt from Matsuda but he's now mounted!
Matsuda wants to hold on but Blikstein pushes him away.
Matsuda keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Blikstein lands a shot to the body, followed up by a shot to the exposed head of his trapped opponent.
Blikstein trying to control but Matsuda is having none of it.
Matsuda tries to hold on but Blikstein postures up.
Matsuda in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
Matsuda working to try and regain half guard. #T2#
Blikstein with shots to the head and body - Matsuda looks very uncomfortable down there.
Matsuda tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Blikstein with shots to the head and body - Matsuda looks very uncomfortable down there.
Blikstein looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
Blikstein connects with a couple of good shots from mount.
Matsuda gets back to half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Matsuda is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Blikstein scores with a couple of nice shots.
Blikstein scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Nice strikes from Blikstein there.
Blikstein lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Blikstein winds up and cracks Matsuda with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Blikstein working over Matsuda with some ground and pound. Matsuda looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Blikstein throwing shots but Matsuda is blocking nicely.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Blikstein lands a nice short elbow.#T3#
Blikstein lands with a punch from half guard. #ROC2#Matsuda is rocked!
The fighters are battling for position here. Matsuda manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Blikstein is in close to Matsuda's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Blikstein with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Blikstein working some strikes from top position.
Blikstein missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Blikstein works over Matsuda with some ground and pound from guard.
Matsuda looking to control. #SUB#
Matsuda escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Blikstein gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Blikstein connects with a couple of short punches.
Blikstein wants to pass the guard but Matsuda is keeping the position.
Blikstein throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Matsuda works some decent striking defense from the bottom. #T4#
Matsuda trying to keep a closed guard but Blikstein is proving a slippery customer.
Blikstein lands a couple of digs.
Blikstein is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Blikstein must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Blikstein keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Matsuda's head.
Blikstein keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Matsuda's head.
Blikstein stands up over Matsuda, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Blikstein distracts Matsuda with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Matsuda trying to keep a closed guard but Blikstein is proving a slippery customer.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Blikstein's corner. There ya go! There ya go! #SUB#
Blikstein got a little sloppy there for a moment and Matsuda has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Blikstein has managed to get both his arms back between Matsuda's legs - danger averted.#SUB#
Matsuda looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Blikstein passes into side control.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Paulo Blikstein dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Matsuda swings widly with a right hand
and Blikstein cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Blikstein swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Blikstein slips the punch.
Blikstein uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Blikstein! But no joy.
Blikstein takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Matsuda looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Matsuda throws a big shot that misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda digs a good hook to Blikstein's body.
Blikstein takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Blikstein rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Matsuda moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Blikstein avoids it well and moves away.
Blikstein has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#T1##TD#
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Blikstein napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Blikstein is looking for a sweep.
Matsuda misses with an attempted head punch from side control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Blikstein can't do much from the bottom here.
Matsuda throws an elbow but Blikstein slips to the side and avoids it well.
Matsuda throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Blikstein struggling a bit here.
Matsuda looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Blikstein is avoiding damage well.
Matsuda wants to control but Blikstein is keeping him busy.
Matsuda cracks Blikstein with a big elbow. #T2#
Blikstein tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Blikstein is in a bad spot here and he knows it... just holding on for now.
Blikstein tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Matsuda trying to control the action but Blikstein is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Matsuda in side control, working for a kimura. He's got hold of an arm and he's torquing it... Blikstein is tapping! That's the end of the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Tanaka Matsuda!
A very excited looking Tanaka Matsuda 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: BBFC Syndicate 2     
Date:   Feb 24, 2021
#R1#
Jab from #1.#CUT#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
#1 throws the left hand but Matsuda avoids the punch easily.
#1 misses with a hook. Matsuda ducked under it nicely.
Matsuda takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
#1 displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matsuda throws out the jab.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Matsuda has been working on his takedowns a lot in the buildup to the fight and we can only assume he's going to look to take this to the mat.
The fighters circling - #1 throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Matsuda misses with a straight right.
#1's jab looks to have found its range, popping Matsuda under the eye.
#1 walks into a left hand.
A telegraphed right hand from #1 misses the target.
#1 scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
#1 swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
A cross from Matsuda lands.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
#1 misses with a looping right.
And Matsuda tries to counter it with a takedown but #1 pushes his down on his head and steps out.#T1#
#1 misses with a left hand
and Matsuda counters with a straight right hand.
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Matsuda keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from #1.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but #1 slips the punch.
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Matsuda changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Matsuda drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
#1 scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
A telegraphed right hand from #1 misses the target.
Matsuda with the counter takedown but #1 avoids it easily.#TD2#
Matsuda is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in #1's half guard.

#1 pushes Matsuda off and gets back to his feet.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matsuda missing with a left hand there. #1 was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
#1 is looking to counter punch.
#1 has been working on his boxing with his coaches at HPS in the buildup to the fight.#T2#
Matsuda cracks #1 with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
#1 lands a slapping body shot.
Matsuda shoots and misses
and #1 counters with a stiff right hand.
#1 misses with a body shot.
The fighters circling - #1 throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
A countering left hand to the body from Matsuda misses.
#1 takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
A jab from Matsuda finds it's way through #1's defenses.
Matsuda throws an uppercut from half a mile away. #1 sees it coming and avoids it easily.
#1 throws a jab when Matsuda was well out of range.#CL#
#1 moves into the clinch.
Matsuda misses with a short punch on the inside.
#1 tries a body shot but Matsuda blocks it. #T3##BC#
#1 breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
#1 connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe. #CUT#That has opened up Tanaka Matsuda's cut even more.
Matsuda misses with a looping left.
#1 swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.#TD2#
Matsuda bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
#1 taking punishment in the form of punches.
#1 tries to improve position but can't.
#1 is working hard here to advance position.
#1 trying his best to control but Matsuda has mounted him.
Matsuda content just to control the position here.
#1 is trying desperately to improve position.
#1 is squirming around, avoiding Matsuda's attempts to control the action.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda landing strikes, looking to finish! #T4#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda tries to control but #1 wriggling away.
#1 taking shots to the head.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda punishing his opponent with strikes.
Matsuda dominating with strikes here.
#1 regains half guard.
#1 wants to sweep but Matsuda has passed to side control!
#1 manages to work his way to half guard, despite Matsuda's best efforts.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
#1 is looking to control Matsuda's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can #1 avoid being mounted?#SUB2#
Matsuda is sneakily working for an arm triangle but #1 sees it coming and defends easily.
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 Bot #1 will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
#1 ducks under a wild hook from Matsuda.
#1 pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
#1 looks to land a right hand but Matsuda moved out of range.
Matsuda changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
#1 closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt
and #1 counters with a straight right hand.
#1 bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
#1 slips under a jab from Matsuda.
Nice defenses there by #1.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda moves into range and connects with a jab.
#1 is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Matsuda shoots in but #1 avoids the takedown attempt easily.
An attempted straight right counter from #1 misses the target.
#1 ducks down and throws a hook to the body.#T1#
Matsuda takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Nice shot lands for #1.
#1 pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Matsuda uses good head movement to avoid the hook from #1.
#1 misses with a left hand #TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Tanaka Matsuda has got the better of the ground game so far.#ES#
#1 kicks off Matsuda and gets to his feet.
Bot #1 is winning the standup battle so far.
#1 jabbing away but nothing is landing.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
#1 is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Matsuda.
Matsuda throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
#1 throws a jab but it's blocked by Matsuda.
Matsuda throws out a counter right but #1 avoids it with no problem.#T2#
Matsuda sizes up #1 with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
#1 misses with a jab to the body
letting Matsuda counter with a right hand.
#1 takes a swing at Matsuda's ribcage but misses.
#1 throws a hook but Matsuda avoids it easily.
Matsuda keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matsuda throws out a loose jab but #1 uses good head movement to avoid it.
A decent looking cross lands there for Matsuda.
#1 throws a hook to the side of Matsuda's head but Matsuda sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Matsuda darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
#1 throws a body shot but no joy.
#1 throws a jab when Matsuda was well out of range.#T3#
#1 keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Matsuda.
#1 throws a jab when Matsuda was well out of range.
#1 cracks Matsuda with a right hand to the side of the head.
Matsuda misses with a hook. #1 ducked under it nicely.
Matsuda throws a body punch but #1 moves out of range.
#1 throws a looping overhand right but Matsuda ducks down to avoid it.
Matsuda jabs #1 right on the nose. #1 blinks but takes it well.
#1 rushes in with a sloppy looking punch #TD2#
so Matsuda counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Matsuda's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Matsuda distracts #1 with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
#1 throws a couple of shots from the bottom but they don't land.
Matsuda trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #T4#
Matsuda wants to control from the top but #1 keeps moving.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Matsuda accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Matsuda stands up over #1, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Matsuda lands a couple of elbows.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matsuda wants to control from the top but #1 keeps moving.
Matsuda trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat. #SUB#
Matsuda avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Matsuda has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Matsuda trying to control but #1 is working from the bottom.
Matsuda is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Tanaka Matsuda will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! This is the final round!#R3#
Matsuda throws a predictable looking body shot
and #1 counters with a nice uppercut.
#1 misses with an uppercut #TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into side control. #1 won't be happy with that. #SUB2#
Matsuda wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by #1, who protects the arm well.
#1 tries to buck Matsuda off but Matsuda is having none of it.
Matsuda lands a decent elbow from side control.
#1 taking a bit of punishment here - Matsuda scoring with strikes.
#1 wants to control but Matsuda postures up.
#1 is trying to get back to half guard.
#1 wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda drags him back down.
Matsuda creates a bit of distance and throws down some hard shots.
Matsuda working the ground and pound. #T1#
#1 is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
Matsuda cracks #1 with a big elbow.
Matsuda working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards. #ROC2##1 is rocked!#SUB2#
Matsuda is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. #1 knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Oh #1 is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!#SUB2#
Matsuda looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
#1 is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Matsuda off and has taken his back!
#1 seems to have got his legs back now.
#1 not allowing Matsuda to control his hands. #SUB#
#1 has his opponent's back and is working for the choke. #T2##SUB#
#1 is looking to finish the fight by rear naked choke. Matsuda knows exactly what he's got planned though, so he's defending well. Maybe a few strikes would soften Matsuda for a finish.
Matsuda staying busy and making it hard for #1 to control.
Matsuda tries to break free.
Matsuda wants to control his opponent's hands but #1 gets his hands free. #SUB#
#1 looking for the choke but no joy.
#1 is trying to stick to Matsuda's back but Matsuda is turning into #1. He's managed to reverse the position - now he's in #1's guard. Polite applause from the crowd in appreciation of some nice Jiu Jitsu by Matsuda.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!#SUB2#
#1 is trying to stand and escape. In the scramble, Matsuda has locked hold of an arm and he's managed to lock on an armbar - #1 taps out instantly and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda gave a mention to Conviction in his post fight interview. That will please them (and hopefully generate some sales).

 

Event: BFC 35: Dudayev Vs. Ozbourne     
Date:   Jan 30, 2021
#R1#
Matsuda misses with a hook.
Jukola fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Jukola misses with a wild body shot.
Matsuda misses with a body shot.
Jukola is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Matsuda with a body shot.#TD#
Matsuda drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Jukola is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
Jukola is looking for a sweep.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Jukola sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Matsuda tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
Matsuda scoring with punches and elbows. #T1#
Matsuda landing strikes.
Jukola trying to remain calm as Matsuda controls from the top position.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Jukola can do anything to dispel that myth.
Matsuda throwing shots but missing, from side control.
Jukola is trying to control Matsuda's posture but Matsuda avoids it.
Matsuda wants to lay and pray for a moment but Jukola keeps working. #SUB#
Matsuda tries for a kimura but Jukola is defending well.
Jukola is trying to improve his position.#SUB#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Jukola has escaped the position, nice work there.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda working the head and body with strikes.
Matsuda 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.#T2##SUB#
Matsuda is working to tighten his grip on Jukola's neck. He's isolated an arm and is working for an arm triangle. Jukola has recognised the danger and is trying to turn with the submission but Matsuda is really squeezing tight and eventually Jukola passes out! Matsuda breaks the hold and jumps onto the cage to celebrate! Submission of the night, I'd say!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:28 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Arm Triangle). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda really struggled to get his t-shirt on before his hand was raised. Making sure that Conviction logo gets some air time is pretty tricky when you're all sweaty.

 

Event: BFC 31: Huhrera Vs. Jackson     
Date:   Dec 26, 2020
#R1#
A solid body kick from Cannabino.
Cannabino tries a head kick but it misses.
Cannabino keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Matsuda.
Matsuda lands a body shot.
Matsuda takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Matsuda misses with a shot to the body
and Cannabino counters with a two punch combo.
Cannabino throws a jab but it's blocked by Matsuda.
Matsuda fails with the takedown.
Cannabino looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Cannabino is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Matsuda.
Cannabino wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.#T1#
Matsuda throws a looping overhand right but Cannabino ducks down to avoid it.
Cannabino unleashes a big counter combination but Matsuda bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Matsuda.
We've been hearing reports that Matsuda has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Matsuda misses with a right hand
letting Cannabino counter with a right hand. #CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Cannabino as he avoids it easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Cannabino tries to clinch but Matsuda moves out of range.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Matsuda.
Matsuda shoots for a takedown but Cannabino saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Matsuda shoots and misses
and Cannabino connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Emporio Cannabino is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Cannabino tries to bum rush Matsuda with a series of wild strikes but Matsuda uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Cannabino avoids it well and moves away.#T2#
Cannabino ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Cannabino looks to score with a jab to the body but Matsuda is just out of range.
Cannabino throws a right hand that misses #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Cannabino!

Cannabino sneaks out the side door and pushes Matsuda away - he's back to his feet. The crowd show their appreciation for the escape.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.#CL2#
Cannabino has taken the fight to the clinch.
Cannabino tries to break free but Matsuda pushes him back against the cage.
Cannabino has had enough of the clinch but Matsuda keeps him there for the moment.#BC2#
Cannabino breaks from the clinch.
Cannabino throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Cannabino is quick to defend against it.
Matsuda thows a left - swing and a miss!
Cannabino unleashes a big counter combination but Matsuda bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Matsuda is defended easily by Cannabino.#T3##CL2#
Cannabino closes the distance and clinches. #BC2#
Cannabino escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Cannabino moves out of range.
Cannabino throws a right and a left that Matsuda avoids nicely.
Matsuda takes one to the side of the head.
Cannabino wants to clinch.
Good shot there by Cannabino.#T4#
Cannabino uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matsuda.
Cannabino wants to clinch.
Cannabino pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Cannabino as he avoids it easily. #TD#
Matsuda looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!#ES2#
Cannabino scrambles and gets back to his feet.
Matsuda throws a looping overhand right but Cannabino ducks down to avoid it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Emporio Cannabino dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda'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#
Cannabino scores with a nice one two combo and darts back out of range to avoid anything coming in the opposite direction.
Cannabino bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Matsuda's head backwards.
Cannabino throws a nice head kick!
Cannabino walks into a left hand.
Matsuda is trying hard to land a takedown here. Cannabino sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Matsuda swats away the attempt to clinch by Cannabino.
Cannabino keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Cannabino looks like he wants to counter punch here.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cannabino throws a sloppy head kick and Matsuda moves out of range easily.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
A big right from Cannabino misses. #TD#
Matsuda scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Cannabino is trying to control Matsuda's posture but Matsuda avoids it. #T1#
Matsuda working the ground and pound but Cannabino is defending the strikes.
Matsuda working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
Cannabino holding on.
Matsuda looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Cannabino is avoiding damage well.
Matsuda advances to full mount.
Matsuda tries to control but Cannabino wriggling away. #SUB#
Matsuda jumps to the side looking to secure the arm triangle…. Ooooh, that looks tight… Cannabino is gargling but he's managed to escape! Nice work there by Cannabino and Matsuda has given up the dominant position trying to land that submission.
Matsuda working away.#T2#
Cannabino is not content to let Matsuda control the position.
Cannabino has found himself in a tricky position here. He's been working his transitions in training so let's see if he can work his way out of it.#SUB#
Matsuda tries for a kimura but Cannabino is defending well.
Matsuda prevents Cannabino from escaping the position.
Cannabino has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#ES2#
Cannabino throws Matsuda to one side and escapes!
Nice cross by Matsuda.
Cannabino misses with a wild combination.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.#T3#
Matsuda throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.#TD#
Matsuda darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.

Cannabino has one foot on Matsuda's thigh - he pushes off and manages to get back to his feet.
Cannabino throws a series of punches but Matsuda avoids them all with ease.
Matsuda staying out of range there.
Matsuda slips a jab from Cannabino.
Matsuda attempts a counter takedown but Cannabino avoids it well and moves away.#TD#
Matsuda decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Cannabino wants to get back to his feet.#SUB#
Matsuda is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Cannabino sees it coming and defends easily.#T4#
Cannabino moves into full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cannabino wants to stand up but Matsuda is controlling him.
Matsuda postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cannabino wants to stand and escape but Matsuda is having none of it.
Matsuda postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Cannabino keeps moving.
Matsuda lands a couple of digs.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Emporio Cannabino showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Matsuda lands a glancing blow to the side of Cannabino's head.#TD#
Matsuda closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Matsuda lands in his opponent's guard.
Cannabino wants to get back to his feet but Matsuda is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Matsuda throws a big elbow that misses. #ES2#
Cannabino scrambles and gets back to his feet.
Cannabino stalks Matsuda and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Matsuda's face. Matsuda staggers backwards, shaken.
Nice defenses there by Cannabino.
Cannabino throws a combination. Matsuda tries to block but a couple of punches get through.#CUT2#Tanaka Matsuda's cut is getting worse.#T1#
Matsuda lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Matsuda shoots in looking for a takedown but Cannabino manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Matsuda's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Matsuda on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Cannabino uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Matsuda.
A slow jab from Matsuda misses its intended target.
Matsuda blocks the body kick.
Cannabino throws a nice looking combination but Matsuda bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Matsuda fails to land the takedown.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda misses the jab.#T2#
Cannabino fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Cannabino throws a combination that misses #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Cannabino is trying to stand back up but Matsuda is controlling him #ES2#
Cannabino kicks off Matsuda and gets to his feet.
Matsuda will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Matsuda shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Cannabino pinned against the cage. Cannabino gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Cannabino shapes to counter with a head kick.
Cannabino throws a hook but Matsuda avoids it easily.
Matsuda appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Cannabino blocks a jab.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Cannabino. #T3#
Matsuda is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Cannabino.
Cannabino lands the left hand.
Matsuda throws a lazy uppercut
and Cannabino cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Emporio Cannabino is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Cannabino throws a looping overhand right but Matsuda ducks down to avoid it.
Cannabino stuffs the takedown attempt from Matsuda. Matsuda gets slowly back to his feet.
Tanaka Matsuda has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Cannabino jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent. #CL2#
Cannabino rushes Matsuda and presses him up against the cage.#BC2#
Cannabino breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Matsuda misses with a hook. Cannabino ducked under it nicely.
Matsuda is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.#T4#
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Cannabino!
Emporio Cannabino seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Matsuda lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Jab by Matsuda.
Emporio Cannabino is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Matsuda slips a straight right by Cannabino.
Matsuda looks for a takedown but Cannabino sprawls well.
Matsuda throws a body punch but Cannabino moves out of range.
Cannabino is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Matsuda slips under a jab from Cannabino.
Nice defenses there by Cannabino.

And that's the end of the fight!
Emporio Cannabino comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Cannabino 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 Leandro Rodrigues scores the fight 27:30
Judge Paulo Santos scores the fight 27:30
Judge Emerson Jorge scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Emporio Cannabino!

Emporio Cannabino 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.

 

Event: BFC BLOODBATH 5     
Date:   Nov 20, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Matsuda scores with a decent looking hook.
Todd looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Todd sprawls and moves away.
No luck for Matsuda with that takedown attempt.
Todd feints a counter leg kick.
Matsuda looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Todd is fending him off so far but Matsuda persists. Nope, Todd circles away and we're back to standing.
Nice straight punches there by Todd. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Todd.#CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Todd scores with a sloppy right hand. Matsuda should have avoided that one.
Todd attempts a low kick but it misses it's target.
Todd looks to score with a jab to the body but Matsuda is just out of range.
Matsuda blocks a jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda lands a jab to Todd's midsection.
An inside leg kick lands from Todd.
Matsuda fails with the takedown
and Todd counters with a low kick, right behind Matsuda 's knee.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.#T1#
Todd throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Matsuda steps to his left, right into the path of a big body kick from Todd. That one must have hurt.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt - Todd sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Matsuda walks into a jab.
Matsuda throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Todd's waist but Todd gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Matsuda off to one side.
Todd goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Matsuda drops down looking for a counter takedown but Todd sprawls and moves away.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Todd as he avoids it easily.
Todd fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Todd lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Todd walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Matsuda checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
Todd leaves Matsuda with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.#T2#
A looping hook to the body misses from Todd. Matsuda does a little dance to reset his feet.
Todd connects with a right hand. Matsuda shakes it off.
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!
Matsuda takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Todd misses the shot to the body.
Todd lands a nice leg kick that just misses Matsuda's sensitive parts.
Matsuda walks into a jab.
Matsuda shoots for a takedown but Todd saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Todd scores with a spinning back kick!
Matsuda is breathing heavily.
Todd moves out of range as Matsuda strikes.
Todd 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. #CUT2#Tanaka Matsuda's cut is getting worse.
Todd dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Matsuda. That did some damage!#T3#
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown but Todd shows good takedown defense.
Todd misses the shot to the body.
A jab from Todd does it's job there.
Todd scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Todd connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Todd lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Todd lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Todd scores with a crisp jab that stopped Matsuda in his tracks. #ROC2#Matsuda is rocked!#CUT2#Tanaka Matsuda's cut is bleeding quite badly. He's got to try and protect it.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt - Todd sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Todd closes the distance and lands a vicious right hand that drops Matsuda! Todd dives in looking to finish! Matsuda is still trying to defend himself but he's taking too many shots and the referee has no choice but to stop the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Winston Todd!
Winston Todd is the new middleweight champion!
After the fight, Winston Todd 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: BFC FIGHT NIGHT 6     
Date:   Oct 23, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown but Jalbert shows good takedown defense.
Matsuda loads up on a big right hand but Jalbert slips the punch.
Jalbert tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Jalbert.
Matsuda slips under a jab.
Jalbert works Matsuda's body with a nice hook.
Jalbert scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Matsuda uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Jalbert.
Matsuda tries to counter with a takedown but Jalbert is quick to defend against it.
Jalbert throws a big shot that misses.
Matsuda lands a nice shot that snaps Jalbert's head back.
Jalbert cracks Matsuda with an open hand slap.
Matsuda cracks Jalbert with an open hand slap.
Matsuda jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Jalbert uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matsuda.
Jalbert looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Jalbert misses with a right hand #TD#
and Matsuda counters with a nice double leg into side control. Jalbert won't be happy with that.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
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!#SUB#
Matsuda has an Americana. Jalbert didn't react quickly enough there and he's in big trouble now! He tries to squirm out but is forced to tap! Matsuda is delighted and gyrates in front of the ring girls. They seem to like the attention - it'll be interesting to see if Matsuda hooks up with any of them at the after show party.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda retains his middleweight title!
Tanaka Matsuda very nearly forgot to thank Conviction amongst all the excitement of his win but just as the interview came to a close, he screamed their name. Hopefully he'll get a few nice freebies in the mail as a thank you.

 

Event: BFC 22: Alexander Vs. Matsuda     
Date:   Sep 26, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!#TD2#
Matsuda looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.#SUB2#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura but Alexander is defending well.
Matsuda is pressing down on Alexander's thigh, looking to free his foot. Alexander is holding on for now.
Matsuda is trying to control the action in half guard but Alexander is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #SUB2#
Alexander is defending against the submission attempts here by Matsuda.
Matsuda wants to take a breather but Alexander is having none of it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Matsuda seems to be working for a kimura but Alexander defends the submission attempt.#T1#
Matsuda looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Alexander is refusing to be controlled, as Matsuda sits in half guard. #SUB2#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura but Alexander is defending well. #SUB2#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura but Alexander is defending well. #SUB2#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there. #T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Matsuda seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Alexander does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Alexander wants to improve his position but Matsuda is controlling well.
Alexander is doing well to avoid being mounted. He's controlling the position at the moment.#SUB2#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Alexander defends it well.
Alexander trying to control here. #T3##SUB2#
Matsuda wants to work for an arm triangle but Alexander is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Matsuda trying to control the action but Alexander is working from the bottom.
Matsuda is thwarting Alexander's attempts to control the position.#SUB2#
Matsuda seems to be looking for submissions.
Matsuda uses his free foot to push down on Alexander's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Alexander. #SUB2#
Matsuda is in full mount, looking to secure a guillotine but Alexander is surviving well by controlling Matsuda's body position as best he can. #T4#
Matsuda looking to control but Alexander is working nicely, looking to advance position himself. #SUB2#
Matsuda is working on an americana here. Ooh, that looks pretty nasty! Nope, Alexander has managed to escape the submission attempt.
Alexander tries to hold on but Matsuda pushes him away. #SUB2#
Matsuda with some aggressive grappling here. He's looking for submissions here, rather than waiting for the opportunity to counter.
Alexander really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB2#
Matsuda is working for a guillotine from mount but Alexander frees his head quite easily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Matsuda works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Alexander misses the jab.
Matsuda changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Alexander swings for the body but Matsuda moves out of range.
Good shot there by Alexander.#CUT#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda with a poor takedown
and Matsuda takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Matsuda is trying hard to land a takedown here. Alexander sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
An attempted straight right counter from Alexander misses the target.
Alexander works Matsuda's body with a nice hook.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Alexander lands with a good body shot.
Alexander leaves Matsuda with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Alexander was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Martin Alexander has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Tanaka Matsuda.
Alexander missing with a left hand there. Matsuda was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Matsuda with the counter takedown but Alexander avoids it easily.#T1#
Matsuda with a poor takedown
and Alexander counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Alexander slips a straight right by Matsuda.
A jab from Alexander misses.
Matsuda fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Alexander misses with a straight right.
Matsuda takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Matsuda is trying hard to land a takedown here. Alexander sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Alexander misses with a left hand #TD2#
and Matsuda counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Matsuda.
Alexander has control of Matsuda's left arm, preventing Matsuda from doing any damage.
Matsuda trying to control but Alexander is working from the bottom.
Alexander on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Alexander tries to get out of the position.#T2##SUB2#
Matsuda thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Matsuda pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Alexander is keeping the position for now.
Alexander keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
Matsuda is looking to pass into half guard but Alexander pushes him away with his feet and jumps on top - now Alexander is in guard.#REVR#
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Alexander loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry. #SUB2#
Matsuda is working for submissions here. He's thrown up his legs looking for a triangle but Alexander frees his head nicely. Oh but Matsuda has switched to an armbar! Alexander is tapping furiously! Lovely submission there!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Armbar). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda is the new middleweight champion!
An out of breath and clearly excited Tanaka Matsuda thanked Conviction for their help and support (and free stuff they sent him).

 

Event: BFC Syndicate 3     
Date:   Aug 08, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Matsuda with a lazy takedown attempt
and Pelosi counters with a stiff right hand. #CUT2#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
Matsuda throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Pelosi's waist but Pelosi gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Matsuda off to one side.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown but Pelosi shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Pelosi takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Matsuda lands a jab to the nose.
Matsuda throws a right hand that misses
and Pelosi counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Matsuda swings for the body but Pelosi moves out of range.
Pelosi throws out a counter right but Matsuda avoids it with no problem.
Matsuda has been working on his boxing with his coaches at HARDCORE MMA in the buildup to the fight.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda shoots in for a double leg but Pelosi sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Matsuda shoots in but no luck this time.
Pelosi looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown but Pelosi shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Pelosi looks like he wants to counter punch here.#T1#
Matsuda misses with a right hand
and Pelosi counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Matsuda fails with the takedown#KD2#
and Pelosi counters with a crisp right hand that drops Matsuda! Pelosi lets Matsuda back up to his feet, looking for a finish!
Matsuda is breathing heavily.
Matsuda misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Pelosi.
Pelosi is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Matsuda with a body shot.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Pelosi sprawls well. Pelosi wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Matsuda gets slowly back to his feet.
Matsuda tests Pelosi's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Pelosi has worked on his takedown defense in the runup to this fight and it is paying off so far.#T2#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Matsuda with a poor takedown
and Pelosi counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#CUT2#Tanaka Matsuda's cut is getting worse.
Matsuda throws a shot from downtown. Pelosi moves away and avoids it.
Matsuda throws out a loose jab but Pelosi uses good head movement to avoid it.
Matsuda misses with a takedown attempt - Pelosi sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.#TD#
Matsuda looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Pelosi is keeping the position.
Pelosi really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Matsuda. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Matsuda forces his way into half guard.#T3#
Matsuda trying to control the pace.
Pelosi wants to get back to full guard.
Matsuda keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.
Pelosi wants to control but Matsuda is keeping busy and won't allow it. #SUB#
Matsuda wants to work for an arm triangle but Pelosi is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Matsuda looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Matsuda is trying to control. Pelosi wants to improve his position but can't escape this time. #T4#
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.
Pelosi won't allow Matsuda to pass to mount.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Matsuda is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Pelosi tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg. #SUB#
Matsuda is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
Matsuda stalling away here and it's allowed Pelosi to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Nancy Pelosi dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
That's time! Matsuda's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Matsuda fails with the takedown
and Pelosi counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Pelosi as he jumps to the side.
Despite the aggression on Pelosi's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Pelosi defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Matsuda.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Tanaka Matsuda. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Matsuda looks to land a left hand but Pelosi moved out of range nicely.
Matsuda shoots and misses #KD2#
and Pelosi counters with a crisp right hand that drops Matsuda! Pelosi lets Matsuda back up to his feet, looking for a finish!#TD#
Matsuda shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Matsuda was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Pelosi is positioning himself to get back to half guard. #T1##SUB#
Matsuda working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
Pelosi is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Matsuda off and has taken his back!
Matsuda manages to reverse the position and now he's in Pelosi's guard. Nice work there by Matsuda.
Matsuda pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Pelosi is keeping the position for now.
Matsuda trying to move into half guard but instead Pelosi has managed to sweep!#REVB##T2#
Pelosi wants to stand but Matsuda has a closed guard, so he can't escape.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Matsuda looking for a triangle here. Pelosi is fighting it but it looks tight! Matsuda pulls the arm across and this one won't last much longer! Nope, Pelosi is tapping out - this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:44 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Choke). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda took to the microphone after his victory and thanked his sponsors, Conviction for their support in the buildup to the fight.

 

Event: BFC 13: Olstein Vs. The Blade     
Date:   Jul 04, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Oliver tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matsuda was well out of range. Poor timing from Oliver.#TD2#
Matsuda looking to score a takedown here. Oliver is defending well but Matsuda drives through and ends up in Oliver's guard.#ES#
Oliver has scooted to the edge of the canvas and used the cage to get back to his feet. Matsuda has stuck on his opponent and is forcing him back against the cage.
A short left from Oliver.
Oliver lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
A right hand to the body from Oliver.
Oliver has a couple of punches blocked by Matsuda.
Oliver fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
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!
Oliver misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Oliver is pressed up against the cage. Matsuda has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Oliver down to the mat. Oliver avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
A left lands for Oliver.#CUT#It looks like Tanaka Matsuda has been cut.
We've been informed that Matsuda 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.
Matsuda avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Matsuda drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Oliver defends it well.
Matsuda throws a body shot but no joy.
Matsuda misses with a left hand
and Oliver counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Matsuda misses with a takedown
letting Oliver counter with a right hand. #T1#
Matsuda closes this distance looking for a takedown but Oliver circles away.
Jamie Oliver has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Tanaka Matsuda.#TD2#
Matsuda throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Oliver tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Matsuda is in Oliver's guard.#ES#
Oliver wriggles free and stands up.
Matsuda doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Oliver counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Matsuda gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Oliver counters with a one-two 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!
Oliver tries to bum rush Matsuda with a series of wild strikes but Matsuda uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Oliver cracks Matsuda with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Oliver misses with the combination. #TD2#
Matsuda dives in and scores a takedown into Oliver's guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T2#
Oliver is trying to hold Matsuda in close to prevent damage but Matsuda has managed to pass into half guard. #SUB2#
Matsuda is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Oliver has managed to free his arm - good work.
Oliver is doing well to control the position and prevent Matsuda from advancing to side control.
Oliver is in a tricky position but he's been working on his transitions down at Elite Underground Training Facility, so we'll see if he gets out of it.#SUB2#
Matsuda is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Oliver doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Matsuda.
Oliver is trying to stand back up but Matsuda is controlling him
Oliver is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #T3##SUB2#
Matsuda is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Matsuda passes to full mount!
Matsuda controlling the pace for now.
Oliver on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Oliver tries to get out of the position.
Oliver tries to hold on but Matsuda pushes him away.
Oliver is desperately trying to improve his position but Matsuda has a good base and remains in mount.
Oliver is working hard here to advance position.#SUB2#
Matsuda jumps to side control looking for an arm triangle but Oliver manages to avoid the submission attempt. #SUB2#
Matsuda tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Oliver is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Matsuda off and has taken his back!#T4#
Oliver controlling well, preventing Matsuda from escaping the position.
Oliver just keeping the dominant position. He can't wait too long though, otherwise the referee will stand them back up.
Matsuda breaks Oliver's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Matsuda sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Oliver looking to hit a scissor sweep but Matsuda is one step ahead there.
Matsuda slips nicely into half guard.
Oliver is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jamie Oliver dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Tanaka Matsuda's cut.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Matsuda is trying hard to land a takedown here. Oliver sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Oliver is looking to counter punch.
Oliver looks to land a right hand but Matsuda moved out of range.
Matsuda slips under a jab from Oliver.
Oliver stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Oliver wants it to stay on the feet.
Oliver doesn't manage to clinch there - Matsuda circles away.
Matsuda fails with a takedown attempt.
Jamie Oliver has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Tanaka Matsuda.
Oliver looks to score with a jab to the body but Matsuda is just out of range.
Tanaka Matsuda seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Oliver.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Oliver throws a shot to the body.
Sloppy strikes from Oliver. Those never looked like landing.
Matsuda has his takedown stuffed
and Oliver cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#T1#
Matsuda uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Oliver.
Oliver scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Oliver scores with a nice head shot.#TD2#
Matsuda looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Oliver!#SUB2#
Matsuda has hold of Oliver's arm here. He's working for an Americana. It looks like he might have it! Oliver tries to escape but he's just digging himself in deeper - Matsuda cranks the arm and Oliver screams in pain! The ref makes a decision and ends the fight before the tap - no complains from Oliver, who is just happy to have his arm attached to his body.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:42 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda made sure to mention his sponsor, Threads of HARDCORE in his post fight interview.

 

Event: BFC Syndicate 1     
Date:   Jun 12, 2020
#R1#
The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Matsuda moves away from the strike by Graves .
Graves leaves Matsuda with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Graves jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Graves lands a lovely overhand right.
Nice defenses there by Matsuda.
No luck for Matsuda with that takedown attempt.
Graves misses with a left hand #TD#
and Matsuda decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Graves 's guard.
Matsuda preventing the sweep.
Our spies down at at LA Vale Tudo inform us that Graves has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but Graves is retaining full guard.
Matsuda controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Graves 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.
Matsuda trying to control the position from guard on top but Graves is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Graves is keeping the position.#T1#
Matsuda advances to half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Graves tries to get to full guard but Matsuda has control of the leg. #SUB#
Matsuda is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount. #SUB#
Matsuda has hold of Graves 's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and Graves manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger.
Graves tries to reverse the position but Matsuda maintains control.#SUB#
Matsuda is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Graves can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning. #T2#
Matsuda looking to control and managing it successfully. #SUB#
Matsuda working for a guillotine from mount but Graves is in no mood to give up.
Graves wants to hold on but Matsuda pushes him away.
Matsuda controlling his opponent.
Matsuda tries to control but Graves wriggling away. #SUB#
Graves has left one of his arms exposed and Matsuda doesn't need a second invitation. He's isolated it and locked on a tight armbar. Graves screams and taps out, obviously in a lot of pain. Hopefully there isn't permanent damage to that arm.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda managed to slip a mention for his sponsors, Threads of HARDCORE, into his post fight interview.

 

Event: HFC KO 3 - Carvaleho x Aki     
Date:   May 08, 2020
#R1#
Gracie takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Gracie fails with an attempt to clinch. #TD2#
Gracie gets caught flat footed, as Matsuda shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Matsuda is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Matsuda wants to pass the guard but Gracie is keeping the position.
Matsuda must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Gracie trying to keep a closed guard but Matsuda is proving a slippery customer. #SUB#
Gracie working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Matsuda doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Matsuda manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Gracie trying to keep a closed guard but Matsuda is proving a slippery customer.
Matsuda 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. #T1#
Matsuda postures up.
Matsuda 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.
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but Gracie is retaining full guard.
Matsuda wants to stand and escape but instead Gracie has hit a sweep and he's now on top in guard. #REVR#
Gracie trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Gracie wants to control from the top but Matsuda keeps moving.
Gracie won't allow Matsuda to sweep him here. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Matsuda is on top in guard. #REVB#
Matsuda trying to move into half guard but instead Gracie has managed to sweep!#REVR##SUB2#
Matsuda is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Gracie tries to free his leg and advance position but Matsuda is retaining full guard.
Matsuda avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Gracie controls from within his opponent's guard.
Matsuda wants to control but Gracie passes easily into half guard. #T3#
Gracie frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Gracie looking to control but Matsuda is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Gracie takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Gracie can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Matsuda is looking to escape.
Matsuda is wriggling around trying to escape. #T4#
Gracie wants to take his opponent's back but instead Matsuda manages to regain half guard.
Matsuda wants to get back to full guard.
Matsuda controlling the position for now.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Gracie trying to control the pace. #SU#
Gracie stands up from half guard... He's had enough of that ground malarky for the time being.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Ralo Gracie will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.
#R2##TD2#
Matsuda gets a double leg takedown into Gracie's guard.
Gracie working a defensive guard here.
Matsuda stopping the sweep attempt from Gracie.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Matsuda stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Gracie swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Matsuda forces his way into half guard.
Gracie trying to hold on to Matsuda's head to control him but Matsuda postures up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda is trying to control the action in half guard but Gracie is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #SUB2#
Gracie is defending against the submission attempts here by Matsuda. #T1#
Matsuda is figuring out what he wants to do next.
Gracie is pressing down on Matsuda's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Matsuda is fighting to break Gracie's control of his arms but Gracie is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
Gracie is trying to keep Matsuda in close.
Matsuda sitting in guard, not really doing much.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters - he looks like he's thinking about a standup.#T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Let's hope that Matsuda 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.#REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Nice sprawl there from Matsuda as Gracie shoots in.#TD2#
Gracie gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Matsuda to score an easy takedown into full guard.
Gracie is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Matsuda wants to control from the top but Gracie keeps moving.
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but Gracie is retaining full guard. #T3#
Matsuda forces his way into half guard.
Gracie wants to improve his position but Matsuda is controlling well.
Gracie tries to strike from the bottom but it doesn't land. #SUB#
Gracie looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Gracie works his way to full guard. Good work.
Matsuda trying to control but Gracie is working from the bottom.
Matsuda tries to free his leg and advance position but Gracie is retaining full guard.
Gracie looking to hit a scissor sweep but Matsuda is one step ahead there. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Gracie trying to control the position.
Gracie keeping moving, preventing Matsuda from controlling successfully.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.
Matsuda controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Nice uppercut lands for Matsuda. That snapped Gracie's head back.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#TD2#
Matsuda darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Gracie wants to control but Matsuda is keeping busy.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Tanaka Matsuda showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. 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#
Gracie tries to move into range but Matsuda moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Gracie on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Matsuda bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Gracie tries to clinch there but Matsuda circles away. #TD2#
Matsuda fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Gracie to the ground. Matsuda is now in Gracie's guard.
Gracie pulls Matsuda in to control the position.
Matsuda looking to sit in guard and control but Gracie gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR#
Matsuda looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda keeping moving, preventing Gracie from controlling successfully. #T1#
Matsuda managing to control the position.
Gracie looking to sit in guard and control but Matsuda gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVB#
Gracie looking to hit a scissor sweep but Matsuda is one step ahead there. #SUB#
Gracie has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Matsuda can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Gracie trying to control the position. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Gracie has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Matsuda has passed into side control. #SUB2#
Matsuda wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Gracie, who protects the arm well.
Matsuda wants to lay and pray for a moment but Gracie keeps working.
Gracie struggling a bit here.#SUB2#
Matsuda goes for an armbar! This could be all over! Wait, no, Gracie rolls with the submission and now he's on top in Matsuda's guard! Nice work there by Gracie! #T3#
Gracie trying to control but Matsuda is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Gracie has gone for a leg lock! Matsuda slips out almost immediately though and dives into Gracie's guard.#REVB#
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Gracie is on top in guard. #REVR#
Gracie is fighting to break Matsuda's control of his arms but Matsuda is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.#T4#
Gracie passes Matsuda's left leg - he's now in half guard.
Matsuda slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Gracie controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Matsuda trying to keep a closed guard but Gracie is proving a slippery customer.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tanaka Matsuda comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Matsuda 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 Trevor Gratis scores the fight 28:29
Judge Ian Loll scores the fight 28:29
Judge Steve Smith scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tanaka Matsuda!

Tanaka Matsuda managed to slip a mention for his sponsors, Threads of HARDCORE, into his post fight interview.

 

Event: HFC 16 - Waller vs Repine     
Date:   Apr 26, 2020
#R1#
Mateis Laeiro tries to score a power double leg takedown but Matsuda sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Mateis Laeiro somewhat.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Mateis Laeiro fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Mateis Laeiro takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.#TD#
Matsuda looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Mateis Laeiro can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Matsuda controls the pace.#SUB2#
Mateis Laeiro had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Matsuda defends it easily.
Mateis Laeiro keeping full guard, as Matsuda tries to pass.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matsuda stands and throws Mateis Laeiro's legs to the side, diving into side control. #SUB#
Matsuda tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though. #SUB#
Matsuda working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it. #T1#
Mateis Laeiro regains half guard.#SUB#
Mateis Laeiro is defending against the submission attempts here by Matsuda.
Matsuda perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
Matsuda tries to pass to full mount but Mateis Laeiro defends it. #SUB2#
Mateis Laeiro looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Mateis Laeiro looks winded!#SUB2#
Mateis Laeiro actively working from the bottom here.#SUB#
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Matsuda is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game. #T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Matsuda is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for Mateis Laeiro! #SUB#
Matsuda is working for a guillotine from mount but Mateis Laeiro frees his head quite easily.
Mateis Laeiro is desperately trying to get back to half guard. #SUB#
Matsuda looking for an armbar but decides to keep the dominant position instead.
Mateis Laeiro is controlling an arm, preventing Matsuda from taking his back. Although keeping him in mount is no better to be honest.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Matsuda tries to control but Mateis Laeiro wriggling away.
Mateis Laeiro looking to escape from mount but he's given up his back!#T3##SUB#
Matsuda is working the back position looking for the choke. Oh, he's slid into an armbar! Beautiful transition and Mateis Laeiro taps out! Fantastic Jiu Jitsu from Matsuda.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:24 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Tanaka Matsuda!
Tanaka Matsuda took to the microphone after his victory and thanked his sponsors, Threads of HARDCORE for their support in the buildup to the fight.

 

 
 
 
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