Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: SYN 1131 Madzarov vs. Oneil
Date: Jan 19, 2025

#R1#
Nurmagomedov tries a head kick but it misses.
Nurmagomedov throws a sloppy head kick
and Battleby counters with a nice uppercut.
Nurmagomedov catches Battleby with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Battleby drops his hands momentarily and Nurmagomedov takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Nurmagomedov connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Battleby's hands.
Nurmagomedov changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Battleby tries to avoid it but Nurmagomedov manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Battleby to the ground. Battleby escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Nurmagomedov throws the left hand but Battleby avoids the punch easily.
Battleby was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Nurmagomedov lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov works Battleby's body with a nice hook.
Battleby has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Battleby there as he acknowledges the shot.
Nurmagomedov works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nice shot lands for Nurmagomedov.#T1#
Battleby takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Nurmagomedov connects with a single shot there.
Battleby moves out of range as Nurmagomedov strikes.
Nurmagomedov lands with an uppercut that bounces Battleby off the cage and back into range.
Battleby takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Nurmagomedov misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body shot
letting Battleby counter with a right hand. #CUT#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Nurmagomedov scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Nurmagomedov is landing a lot of head punches in this opening round! Battleby had better start moving his head a bit unless he wants his face to turn into mush.
Battleby ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
Battleby swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Battleby drops his hands momentarily and Nurmagomedov takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Battleby takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.#T2#
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Battleby takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Nurmagomedov cracks a nice hook into Battleby's ribs.
Nurmagomedov scores with a decent looking hook.
Nurmagomedov scores with a nice strike.
Nurmagomedov thuds his right hand into Battleby's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Battleby uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Battleby on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
A slow jab from Nurmagomedov misses its intended target. #CL2#
Nurmagomedov pushes Battleby up against the cage in a clinch.
Battleby prevents the takedown attempt.
A nice right hand lands inside from Battleby.
Battleby lands with a right to the head.
Nurmagomedov misses with some punches.
Nurmagomedov tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Ulysses Battleby has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Khabib Nurmagomedov.#T3#
A short left from Nurmagomedov. #BC2#
Nurmagomedov breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Battleby ducks right into an uppercut from Nurmagomedov.
Battleby slips under a jab.
Nurmagomedov throws a nice looking combination but Battleby bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
It looked like Battleby was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Nurmagomedov.
Battleby uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Nurmagomedov.
Battleby is looking to counter punch.
Nurmagomedov scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Battleby ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
It looked like Battleby wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Nurmagomedov throws a predictable looking body shot
and Battleby counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Ulysses Battleby is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Nurmagomedov scores with a jab.
Battleby blocks a head kick by Nurmagomedov.
A jab lands there for Nurmagomedov.#T4#
Nurmagomedov looks to land a left hand but Battleby moved out of range nicely.
Donk. Nurmagomedov catches Battleby right on the button with a cross.
We've been told by Battleby's head coaches at FIGHT FOUNDERS (CA) that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Battleby slips a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook
and Battleby counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov shoots and misses
and Battleby counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Nurmagomedov rushes in with a sloppy looking punch #KD#
and Battleby counters with a nice right hand that sends Nurmagomedov toppling to the canvas! Nurmagomedov scrambles and gets back to his feet - can Battleby finish him?!#ROC#Nurmagomedov is rocked!
Nurmagomedov rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Battleby counters with a big right hand! Oh Nurmagomedov is in trouble here! Battleby follows up with more strikes and that's it! The ref has stopped it!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:39 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Ulysses Battleby!
After winning the bout, Ulysses Battleby thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

Event: SYN 1125 Bollomard vs. Dall Jr
Date: Jan 03, 2025

#R1##TD2#
Brown gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.#SUB#
Brown is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Nurmagomedov defends well.
Nurmagomedov wants to control from the top but Brown keeps moving. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov sitting in guard doing not very much at all here. Brown doesn't need a second invitation though! He's locked up a guillotine and he's squeezing tight! That is tiiiiiiiiight! Nurmagomedov 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 Brown - great work!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:40 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Hoodoo Brown!
Hoodoo Brown decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: C372: Khabib vs Blaydes
Date: Dec 15, 2024

#R1#
Nurmagomedov lands a lovely overhand right.
Blaydes avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch up#TD2#
and Blaydes counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Nurmagomedov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Blaydes is one step ahead there.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Blaydes in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Blaydes doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Blaydes 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.
Blaydes working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Blaydes is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.#T1##SUB#
Nurmagomedov is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Blaydes is aware though and is defending well.
Blaydes controlling from the top position. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov throws his legs up looking to secure a triangle. Oh, that looks pretty tight, I gotta say! Blaydes escapes and throws Nurmagomedov's legs to the side, diving into side control!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nurmagomedov can't do much from the bottom here.
Blaydes cracks Nurmagomedov with a big right hand but Nurmagomedov just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
Nurmagomedov tries to buck Blaydes off but Blaydes is having none of it.#T2#
Nurmagomedov is working hard here to advance position.
You can see the frustration on Nurmagomedov's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Blaydes has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Blaydes in side control, just content to control the action for now.
Blaydes landing strikes.
Blaydes lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Nurmagomedov tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Blaydes wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Nurmagomedov struggling a bit here.#T3#
Nurmagomedov is looking to regain half guard here but Blaydes keeps moving and retains side control.
You can see the frustration on Nurmagomedov's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Nurmagomedov is trying to improve his position.
Blaydes scores with a couple of short elbows.
Nurmagomedov regains half guard.
Nurmagomedov trying to control from the bottom.
Blaydes looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Blaydes working his ground and pound in the gym. So far it seems to be working well.
Nurmagomedov trying to control here.
Blaydes is nestled in close to Nurmagomedov, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.#T4##SUB#
Nurmagomedov actively working from the bottom here.
Nurmagomedov is pressing down on Blaydes's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Blaydes controlling from the top position.
Let's hope that Blaydes 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.
Nurmagomedov keeping moving, preventing Blaydes from controlling successfully.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB#
Nurmagomedov looking for a guillotine here but Blaydes defends easily.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Oscar Blaydes dominated that round.
That's time! Nurmagomedov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Blaydes throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Blaydes blocks a head kick by Nurmagomedov.
We are yet to see a takedown attempt from Blaydes in the fight. On paper you would think he is the more dominant ground fighter so let's see if these unusual tactics pay off.
Nurmagomedov scores with a nice head shot.
Blaydes swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Nurmagomedov fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
A looping hook to the body misses from Nurmagomedov. Blaydes does a little dance to reset his feet.
Blaydes drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Blaydes was well out of range.
Nurmagomedov misses with a takedown attempt
and Blaydes counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Blaydes throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Nurmagomedov throws a poor cross that misses
and Nurmagomedov takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping right.
And Blaydes tries to counter it with a takedown but Nurmagomedov pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Nurmagomedov tries to close the distance and clinch but Blaydes swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Nurmagomedov looks to land a left hand but Blaydes moved out of range nicely.#T1#
Nurmagomedov shoots in for a takedown but Blaydes shows good takedown defense.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Khabib Nurmagomedov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Blaydes cracks Nurmagomedov with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Khabib Nurmagomedov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping right.
Blaydes has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Nurmagomedov fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Blaydes lands a jab, followed by a cross and another cross, as Nurmagomedov backs up against the cage.
Nurmagomedov fails with a takedown attempt.
Good exchange - Nurmagomedov coming out on top.
Blaydes lands a jab to the nose.
Nurmagomedov walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Blaydes checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
Oscar Blaydes is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#T2#
Nurmagomedov missing with a left hand there. Blaydes was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nurmagomedov blocks a jab.
Nurmagomedov takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Blaydes has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Nurmagomedov finds it's way round the side to connect with Blaydes's head.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Nurmagomedov walks into a jab.
Nurmagomedov misses with a left hand
and Blaydes cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook but Blaydes avoids it easily.
Nurmagomedov avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Blaydes uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
It seemed like Blaydes was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Blaydes.
Blaydes throws the left hand but Nurmagomedov avoids the punch easily.
Nurmagomedov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Blaydes was well out of range. Poor timing from Nurmagomedov.
Blaydes works Nurmagomedov's body with a nice hook.
Nurmagomedov throws an off balance right hand #TD2#
and Blaydes counters with a shoot takedown into half guard. #T3#
Blaydes working the head and body with strikes.
Nurmagomedov wants to improve his position but Blaydes is controlling well.
Blaydes trying to control the action but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Blaydes trying to control but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom.
Blaydes works over Nurmagomedov with some ground and pound from guard.
Blaydes wants to control from the top but Nurmagomedov keeps moving.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control the position from the bottom. #T4#
Blaydes lands a couple of digs.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Blaydes scoring with punches to the head and body.
Blaydes is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control the position but Blaydes postures up. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov is looking for a triangle here but Blaydes uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Nurmagomedov struggling a bit here.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Oscar Blaydes 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!#R3#
Blaydes is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Nurmagomedov is looking to counter punch.
A big left from Nurmagomedov misses.
Blaydes keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Blaydes has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Nurmagomedov finds it's way round the side to connect with Blaydes's head.
Oscar Blaydes seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Nurmagomedov throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Blaydes sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Blaydes uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Nurmagomedov.
Blaydes looks to score with a jab to the body but Nurmagomedov is just out of range.
Nurmagomedov is looking to counter punch.
Nurmagomedov moves in looking to clinch but Blaydes pushes him off.
Blaydes moves into range and connects with a jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Blaydes ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
Blaydes throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a left to the body. #CL2#
Blaydes has closed the distance and engaged Nurmagomedov in a clinch.
Blaydes tries a body shot but Nurmagomedov blocks it. #BC2#
Blaydes manages to break the clinch.
Nurmagomedov takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.#T1##CL2#
Blaydes moves into the clinch successfully.
Nurmagomedov doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Blaydes lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Nurmagomedov.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Nurmagomedov lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Blaydes takes a shot to the head.
I was talking to Nurmagomedov's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Blaydes lands with a short punch from the clinch.
A left hand lands to the body for Blaydes.
Blaydes prevents Nurmagomedov from breaking the clinch.
Blaydes scores with a shot to the side of Nurmagomedov's head. #BC2#
Blaydes escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Blaydes lands a nice hook to Nurmagomedov's body. Nurmagomedov takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Blaydes lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Blaydes throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
A little feinted left hand from Nurmagomedov on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.#CL2#
Blaydes rushes Nurmagomedov and presses him up against the cage.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nurmagomedov tries to pull guard but Blaydes forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
A nice left hand lands by Blaydes.
Blaydes misses with a punch to the body. #BC2#
Blaydes breaks the clinch. #T2#
Blaydes misses with an uppercut. Nurmagomedov saw that one coming.
Blaydes throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Nurmagomedov on the side of the head.
Blaydes misses with a body shot.
Nurmagomedov throws a lazy right hand but Blaydes sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Nurmagomedov misses with a combination
and Nurmagomedov takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Blaydes lands a nice hook to Nurmagomedov's body. Nurmagomedov takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Nurmagomedov uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Blaydes.
Blaydes lands a nice shot to the body.
Blaydes throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
A jab from Nurmagomedov misses.
Blaydes is looking for the big counter here.
Blaydes walks into a straight right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Blaydes lunges at Nurmagomedov with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Nurmagomedov's hand.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch up.#T3#
Nurmagomedov waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Blaydes.
Blaydes misses with a body shot.
A decent looking cross lands there for Blaydes.
A jab from Nurmagomedov misses.
A countering left hand to the body from Blaydes misses.#CL2#
Blaydes has taken the fight to the clinch.
Nurmagomedov struggles to land a body shot inside as Blaydes controls his hands.
Nurmagomedov has Blaydes pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Blaydes manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Nurmagomedov lands with a light punch inside.
Nurmagomedov tries to throw a body punch but Blaydes avoids it by throwing Nurmagomedov back against the cage.
Nurmagomedov is looking to take this one to the mat.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Khabib Nurmagomedov. That's going to take a lot out of him.#BC2#
Blaydes escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Blaydes lands a slapping body shot.
Nurmagomedov shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Blaydes defends it nicely.
Nurmagomedov throws a looping overhand right but Blaydes ducks down to avoid it.
A countering left hand to the body from Blaydes misses.#T4#
Blaydes uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Blaydes scores with a crisp jab that stopped Nurmagomedov in his tracks.
Blaydes lands a slapping body shot.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Blaydes missing with a left hand there. Nurmagomedov was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Blaydes takes a swing at Nurmagomedov's ribcage but misses.
Blaydes lands with a nice body punch.
Nurmagomedov is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Blaydes's jab looks to have found its range, popping Nurmagomedov under the eye.
Blaydes misses the shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook
and Blaydes counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Nurmagomedov throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Blaydes counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.#CL2#
Blaydes closes the distance and pushes Nurmagomedov back into the cage.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Blaydes prevents a body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Blaydes throws a punch but it's blocked by Nurmagomedov. #BC#
Nurmagomedov breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Oscar Blaydes really dominated that round.
That's time! Nurmagomedov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R4#
Blaydes slips under a jab.
Nurmagomedov has a takedown stuffed.
Nurmagomedov moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Nice jab there from Blaydes.
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Nurmagomedov is looking to clinch but Blaydes is avoiding it.
Nurmagomedov throws a big shot that misses.
Nurmagomedov pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov avoids the body shot from Blaydes.
Nurmagomedov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Blaydes was well out of range. Poor timing from Nurmagomedov.
Blaydes lands a nice shot that snaps Nurmagomedov's head back.
Nice uppercut there from Blaydes.
Blaydes throws a shot from downtown. Nurmagomedov moves away and avoids it.#T1#
Nurmagomedov tries to move into range but Blaydes moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Nurmagomedov swings widly with a right hand
and Blaydes counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov throws out a loose jab but Blaydes uses good head movement to avoid it.
Blaydes uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nurmagomedov.
An inside leg kick from Nurmagomedov misses.
Blaydes throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Jab from Blaydes.
Blaydes misses with a hook.
Nurmagomedov looks to throw the jab but Blaydes is out of range.
Blaydes scores with a nice head shot.
Blaydes keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Nurmagomedov misses with a left hand #TD2#
and Blaydes decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Nurmagomedov's guard.
Blaydes with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.#T2#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!#SUB#
Blaydes got a little sloppy there for a moment and Nurmagomedov has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Blaydes has managed to get both his arms back between Nurmagomedov's legs - danger averted.
Blaydes content to stall in guard here.
Blaydes is in close to Nurmagomedov's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Blaydes scoring with some ground and pound.
Blaydes preventing the sweep.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Blaydes's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Blaydes preventing the sweep.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Blaydes accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Blaydes 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. #T3#
Blaydes stands up over Nurmagomedov, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Nurmagomedov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Blaydes is one step ahead there.
Nurmagomedov is trying to keep Blaydes in close. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov has his foot on Blaydes's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Blaydes works his way back into a safe position though.
Blaydes with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Blaydes tries to free his leg and advance position but Nurmagomedov is retaining full guard. #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.
Blaydes scoring with punches to the head and body.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control the position but Blaydes postures up. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Blaydes stacks Nurmagomedov 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 Blaydes!
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Nurmagomedov is trying to get back to half guard.
Blaydes lands a few punches from side control.
Nurmagomedov tries to bench press Blaydes off him but Blaydes keeps the position.
Blaydes connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Nurmagomedov some visible discomfort.
Nurmagomedov is trying to get back to half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Oscar Blaydes dominated that fourth round.
That's time! Nurmagomedov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R5#
Blaydes misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nurmagomedov.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Nurmagomedov takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Nurmagomedov cracks Blaydes with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Blaydes slips under a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov jabbing away but nothing is landing.
A jab from Blaydes finds it's way through Nurmagomedov's defenses.
Blaydes blocks a jab.
Blaydes pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Nurmagomedov throws a shot from downtown. Blaydes moves away and avoids it.
Blaydes looks to score with a jab to the body but Nurmagomedov is just out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov stalks Blaydes and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Blaydes's face. Blaydes staggers backwards, shaken.
Nurmagomedov rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Blaydes moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Blaydes with the counter takedown but Nurmagomedov avoids it easily.#CL2#
Blaydes gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Nurmagomedov tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Blaydes's elbow.
A left hand lands to the body for Blaydes. #T1##BC2#
Blaydes breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the side of Blaydes's head but Blaydes sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Blaydes tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Blaydes throws a body shot but no joy.
Blaydes swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Nurmagomedov looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Nurmagomedov misses with a lunging right hand
and Blaydes counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Blaydes smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Blaydes with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Blaydes slips under a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Blaydes tests Nurmagomedov's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Nurmagomedov takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Nurmagomedov jabbing away but nothing is landing.
And Blaydes tries to counter it with a takedown but Nurmagomedov pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Nurmagomedov looks to clinch #TD2#
and Blaydes counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nurmagomedov trying to control here. #T2#
Nurmagomedov is looking to improve his position.
Blaydes lands strikes from 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. Blaydes connects with a nice short shot to Nurmagomedov's temple.
Blaydes scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Blaydes looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Nurmagomedov with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control but can't.
Blaydes slips a nice elbow through Nurmagomedov's hands, connecting with Nurmagomedov's forehead.
Nurmagomedov trying to control here but he's found himself mounted! Oh no!
Blaydes unloading with bombs!
Oscar Blaydes has got the better of the ground game so far.#T3#
Blaydes with shots to the head and body - Nurmagomedov looks very uncomfortable down there.
Nurmagomedov is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Nurmagomedov bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
Blaydes looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Blaydes bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Nurmagomedov's guard. #REVB#
Blaydes landing some decent shots from guard.
Blaydes cracks Nurmagomedov with a solid left hand.
Blaydes trying to control but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom. #T4##SUB#
Nurmagomedov looking for subs off his back but Blaydes has passed one foot through into half guard.
Nurmagomedov tries to roll over but Blaydes keeps him under control.
Nurmagomedov is staying active underneath Blaydes, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Blaydes is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Nurmagomedov has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Blaydes is working away from the top position though.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Alexandre Firmino scores the fight 45:50
Judge Matheus Silva scores the fight 45:50
Judge Paulo Santos scores the fight 45:50

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Oscar Blaydes!
Oscar Blaydes is the new lightweight champion!
A victorious Oscar Blaydes thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

Event: C366: Jiang vs Khabib II
Date: Dec 01, 2024

#R1#
Nurmagomedov missing with a left hand there. Jiang was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Nurmagomedov lands with a straight right. Jiang didn't see that one coming.
Nurmagomedov scores with a body shot.
Jiang misses the body punch
and Nurmagomedov counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Nurmagomedov misses with a body kick.
Nurmagomedov moves away from the strike by Jiang. #CL#
Jiang closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Jiang scores with a shot to the side of Nurmagomedov's head.
I was talking to Jiang's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Jiang stalling in the clinch.
Jiang content to slow the pace in the clinch.
Nice body punch from Jiang - that landed with a thud.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Jiang stalling here - the referee won't stand for too much of that.
A short left from Jiang.
Jiang misses with some punches.
Jiang is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Nurmagomedov is defending well for now.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!#BC#
Jiang pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Jiang is on the wrong end of a nice combination from Nurmagomedov.#T1#
Jiang throws a hook but Nurmagomedov blocks it.
Nurmagomedov cracks Jiang with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Jiang misses with the body kick
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Jiang slips under a jab.
Nurmagomedov throws an overhand right that lands on Jiang's shoulder, as Jiang tries to avoid the shot.
Jiang ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
Jiang walks into a left hand.
Jiang blocks a jab.
Khabib Nurmagomedov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Jiang does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.
Jiang takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Nurmagomedov avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Nurmagomedov! But no joy.
Nurmagomedov connects with a body shot.
Da Jiang is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Jiang staying out of range there.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the side of Jiang's head but Jiang sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Jiang tries to land a body kick
and Nurmagomedov counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Jiang takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.#T2#
Nice shot lands for Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov swings widly with a right hand
and Jiang counters with a lovely straight right hand!#CUT#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.#CL2#
Nurmagomedov has Jiang up against the cage in a clinch.
Nurmagomedov goes for a body shot but it's blocked. #BC#
Jiang pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.#CL2#
Nurmagomedov moves into range and clinches up with Jiang.
Nurmagomedov goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Jiang taking a break, stalling in the clinch. #BC#
Jiang's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Jiang misses with a straight right.
Jiang swings away with a body shot that misses
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Jiang tries to land a leg kick but Nurmagomedov saw it coming and moves away.
Nurmagomedov's corner calls for a 1-2. Nurmagomedov obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
A punch lands to the side of Jiang 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Nurmagomedov throws the left hand but Jiang avoids the punch easily.#T3#
A looping hook to the body misses from Jiang. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.
The fight stays on the outside here - Nurmagomedov looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Nurmagomedov scores with a hook.
Nurmagomedov lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
A clash of legs there as Jiang blocks the low kick.
Jiang throwing a counter right hand but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.#CL2#
Nurmagomedov drives through and clinches with Jiang against the cage.
Jiang misses with a short punch on the inside.
Jiang's corner are urging him to control the action in the clinch for a moment, rather than mount any serious offense. I'm sure the crowd appreciate those instructions... not.#TD2#
Nurmagomedov pulls guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SU#
Jiang decides to stand up and beckons his opponent to follow.
Nurmagomedov misses with a lunging right hand
and Jiang counters with a straight right hand.
Jiang throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Nurmagomedov throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.#T4#
The fighters circling - Nurmagomedov throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Jiang scores with a jab to the head.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Jiang was well out of range.
An attempted straight right counter from Jiang misses the target.
Jiang tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Jiang.
Jiang takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Nurmagomedov takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Nurmagomedov scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Nurmagomedov waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Jiang.
Jiang fires out a quick counter leg kick but Nurmagomedov just manages to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov might want to mix his strikes up a bit more. He's just going for head shots at the moment and that can become a bit predictable.
Jiang scores with a push kick.
Jiang throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Jiang misses with an uppercut.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Jiang takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Nurmagomedov moves out of range of the body kick.
Jiang throws a nice outside leg kick.
Nurmagomedov tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Jiang paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Jiang looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov's cut.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Nurmagomedov uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the side of Jiang's head but Jiang sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook but Jiang blocks it.
Jiang misses with a series of wild punches.
Nurmagomedov fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Jiang looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Nurmagomedov has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Nurmagomedov throws a shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov thows a body kick. Jiang tries to catch it but that hurt him.
Nurmagomedov throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Jiang counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
A telegraphed right hand from Nurmagomedov misses the target.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jiang gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov moves away from the strike by Jiang.
Nurmagomedov ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Jiang moves away.
Jiang appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
A low kick lands for Jiang. #T1#
Jiang tries to clinch up.
Jiang scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Nurmagomedov ducks right into an uppercut from Jiang.
Nurmagomedov lands a jab to the head.
Jiang scores with a slapping inside leg kick.
Jiang swats away the attempt to clinch by Nurmagomedov.
Jiang is looking to counter with a body kick.
Jiang misses with a wild body shot.
It seemed like Nurmagomedov was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Jiang takes a swing at Nurmagomedov's ribcage but misses.
Jiang avoids the body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov lands a leg kick that knocks Jiang off balance momentarily.#CL#
Jiang moves into the clinch successfully.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov digs a right hand underneath Jiang's ribcage. Jiang let out a lung full of air as it connected.
Jiang misses with a shot to the kidneys. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov drags the fight down to the ground. #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!#SUB2#
Nurmagomedov is looking for a triangle but Jiang pushes his legs off easily.
Nurmagomedov bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Jiang's guard. #REVB#
Jiang avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Nurmagomedov throws a big elbow that misses.
Nurmagomedov throwing strikes from guard but Jiang blocks nicely.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Nurmagomedov accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Nurmagomedov throws an elbow that misses. Jiang uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Nurmagomedov's guard. Nice move by Jiang!#REVR##SUB2#
Nurmagomedov looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar. #SUB2#
Nurmagomedov escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Jiang gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance. #T3##SUB2#
Nurmagomedov is looking for a triangle here but Jiang uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Nurmagomedov has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.#SU#
Jiang decides to stand up, so the ref orders Nurmagomedov to his feet.
Jiang tries to clinch up but Nurmagomedov circles away and keeps his distance.
Nurmagomedov feints the counter takedown.
Jiang takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Jiang throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch but Jiang is having none of it.
Jiang was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Jiang looks to score with a jab to the body but Nurmagomedov is just out of range.
Jiang throws a body kick, spinning off balance#TD2#
and Nurmagomedov counters with a shoot takedown. Jiang fights it but they end up in guard.

Jiang has his feet on Nurmagomedov's hips. He pushes off and gets to his feet. Nice work. #T4#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nurmagomedov fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Jiang looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Nurmagomedov darts in looking for a takedown but Jiang gets double underhooks and turns Nurmagomedov into the cage.
Nurmagomedov moves out of range of the strikes.
Nurmagomedov darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
A nice leg kick from Jiang, right into the meat of the thigh.
Nurmagomedov throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Jiang throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Nurmagomedov takes a swing at Jiang's ribcage but misses.
Jiang misses with a right hand
and Jiang takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Jiang throws a body punch but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov now looks to counter with a shot at the body.#CL#
Jiang closes the distance and pushes Nurmagomedov back into the cage.
Nurmagomedov prevents a body shot from Jiang.
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 Da Jiang will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R3#
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut
and Jiang counters with a right hand to the body.
Jiang scores with the left hand. Nurmagomedov knows he should have avoided that one.
Nurmagomedov cracks Jiang with an open hand slap.
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Jiang's head backwards.
Nurmagomedov missing with a left hand there. Jiang was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Nurmagomedov misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
The fighters circling - Jiang throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Jiang is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight. #CL2#
Nurmagomedov pushes Jiang up against the cage in a clinch.
A short right from Jiang.
Jiang misses with a body punch.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Jiang.
Jiang throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Nurmagomedovs head.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nurmagomedov tries to pull guard but Jiang won't allow it.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook to the ribs.
Nurmagomedov tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Jiang's elbow.
Jiang stalling against the cage. #T1#
Nurmagomedov has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Jiang avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Jiang goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Nurmagomedov drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Da Jiang has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov working aggressively here.
Nurmagomedov fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Jiang blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Nurmagomedov jumps guard but Jiang turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.
Nurmagomedov struggles to land a body shot inside as Jiang controls his hands.
Jiang keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Nurmagomedov's efforts to push away.
Nurmagomedov tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Jiang just stands there and leans against the cage.
Jiang stalls.
Jiang lands a left hand.
Jiang doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Nurmagomedov managing to block the knees to the body from Jiang. #T2#
Nurmagomedov stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Jiang tries to throw a body punch but Nurmagomedov avoids it by throwing Jiang back against the cage.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Jiang.
Jiang lands a hook that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Jiang tries a knee to the head but Nurmagomedov blocks it.
Nurmagomedov working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Nurmagomedov tries to throw a body punch but Jiang avoids it by throwing Nurmagomedov back against the cage.
Nurmagomedov tries to pull guard but Jiang forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Jiang lands a hook that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Nurmagomedov is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Jiang pulls him back up using the underhooks.
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!
Nurmagomedov tries to work over Jiang's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov pulls guard effortlessly.
Jiang wants to get up but he can't break Nurmagomedov's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.
Nurmagomedov wants to sweep but no luck. #SU#
Jiang stands up from Nurmagomedov's guard - Jiang perhaps looking for a knockout.
Nurmagomedov scoring well with a low kick there. #T3#
Jiang 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.
Nurmagomedov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
A big right from Nurmagomedov misses.
Jiang is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Jiang scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook. Jiang ducked under it nicely.
Jiang goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
A little jabbing left from Nurmagomedov on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Nurmagomedov misses with the combination.
A big right from Jiang misses.
Nurmagomedov wants to clinch up but Jiang keeps it at a distance.
Jiang misses with an uppercut. Nurmagomedov saw that one coming.
Nurmagomedov throws a body shot but no joy.
Jiang half committed to a counter leg kick.#T4#
Jiang misses with a wild body shot.
Nurmagomedov connects with a right hand. Jiang shakes it off.
Jiang lands a jab to the nose.
Jiang tries to clinch there but Nurmagomedov circles away.
Khabib Nurmagomedov seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Nurmagomedov slips under a jab from Jiang.
Jiang circles away from the clinch attempt.
Nurmagomedov scores with a jab.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Nurmagomedov throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Jiang seemed to be looking to counter by closing the distance.
Jiang swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Nurmagomedov looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Nurmagomedov avoids a punch combination nicely.
Nurmagomedov lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Jiang misses with a lunging right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice uppercut.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but Da Jiang did the better work so I'd imagine he'll take it.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov'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#
Jiang walks into a straight right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Jiang misses with a body shot.
Jiang thows a leg kick but Nurmagomedov checks it
and Nurmagomedov counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Nurmagomedov throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Jiang throws a body punch but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
A looping hook to the body misses from Nurmagomedov. Jiang does a little dance to reset his feet.
Jiang is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Nurmagomedov.
Jiang looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Jiang fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Nurmagomedov is out of range.
And Nurmagomedov tries to counter it with a takedown but Jiang pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Nurmagomedov throws a body kick that misses.
Jiang's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Nurmagomedov connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Jiang scrambles back to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jiang misses with a head kick.
Jiang tries to close the distance and clinch but Nurmagomedov swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Jiang.
A looping hook to the body misses from Nurmagomedov. Jiang does a little dance to reset his feet.#T1#
Jiang takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Jiang walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
A big right from Jiang misses.
Jiang throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
Nurmagomedov moves away from the strike by Jiang.
Nurmagomedov avoids the head kick by Jiang.
Nurmagomedov ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Nurmagomedov doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Jiang throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Jiang doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Jiang scores with a body shot.
Nurmagomedov scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Nurmagomedov lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nurmagomedov scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.#T2#
Nurmagomedov throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Jiang takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Nurmagomedov dodges the punch combination from Jiang.
Jiang tries to clinch up but Nurmagomedov circles away and keeps his distance.
Jiang motions for Nurmagomedov to come forward. Jiang throws a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Nurmagomedov punishes Jiang's body with a nice straight punch.
Nurmagomedov misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Jiang swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Nurmagomedov tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Jiang throws a hook to the side of Nurmagomedov's head but Nurmagomedov sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Nurmagomedov cracks Jiang with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Jiang throws a right hand that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice body shot.
Jiang swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
and Nurmagomedov counters with a straight right hand.#T3#
Nurmagomedov getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Jiang closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch there but Jiang circles away.
Nurmagomedov misses with an attempted mid kick.
An attempted straight right counter from Jiang misses the target.
Jiang tries to land a front kick but Nurmagomedov steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Nurmagomedov stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Jiang.
Nurmagomedov throws an overhand right that lands on Jiang's shoulder, as Jiang tries to avoid the shot.
Jiang takes a swing at Nurmagomedov's ribcage but misses.
Nurmagomedov lands three nice shots there - that looked like it hurt!
A telegraphed right hand from Jiang misses the target.
Jiang misses with a left hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a stiff right hand.
Nurmagomedov scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Jiang throws a lazy right hand but Nurmagomedov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#T4#
Nurmagomedov thuds his right hand into Jiang's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
The fighters circling - Nurmagomedov throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Nurmagomedov throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Jiang throwing a counter right hand but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov scores with the left hand. Jiang knows he should have avoided that one.
Jiang defending well as Nurmagomedov loads up on a big left hand.
Nurmagomedov shoots in but no luck this time.
Nurmagomedov has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Jiang.
Jiang throws a body punch but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Jiang has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Jiang there as he acknowledges the shot.
Jiang moves to clinch but Nurmagomedov breaks away
and Nurmagomedov counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Jab, jab by Nurmagomedov - just one landing.
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
A jab from Nurmagomedov does it's job there.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that fourth round.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! And we move into the final round!#R5#
Nurmagomedov throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Jiang fails to land with a series of punches.
Nurmagomedov checks the leg kick nicely there.
Nurmagomedov dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Nurmagomedov paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
A jab from Nurmagomedov does it's job there.
Nurmagomedov defending well as Jiang loads up on a big left hand.
A lazy left from Jiang finds it's target.
Nurmagomedov listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Jiang.
Nurmagomedov connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Jiang's corner calls for a 1-2. Jiang obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
The fighters circling - Jiang throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Nurmagomedov blocks a jab.#T1#
Jiang uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov tries to move into range but Jiang moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Jiang smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.#KD#
Jiang lands a big uppercut and Nurmagomedov crumbles to the floor! The ref thinks about stopping the fight but Nurmagomedov looks OK. Jiang waves Nurmagomedov back to his feet!#ROC#Nurmagomedov is rocked!
Nurmagomedov works over Jiang's head and body with a nice combination.
Nurmagomedov is still on wobbly legs! Can Jiang finish him?
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Jiang uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Nurmagomedov.
Jiang throwing a counter right hand but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.#TD2#
Nurmagomedov closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Nurmagomedov missing with the ground and pound from half guard. #SUB2#
Nurmagomedov maintaining the dominant position here and is working for a kimura. He's locked it up! Jiang could be in real trouble here! He's trying to wriggle out but Nurmagomedov has cracked it and Jiang is screaming in pain - he's tapped out! Great finish by Nurmagomedov!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:57 of round 5, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Khabib Nurmagomedov is the new lightweight champion!
An intense looking Khabib Nurmagomedov took to the microphone post fight and gave a little speech: 'I’m the GOAT.'.

Event: C361: Jiang vs Rome
Date: Nov 17, 2024

#R1#
Nurmagomedov avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Pope throws a poor cross that misses
and Nurmagomedov makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Pope fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Nurmagomedov on the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Pope.
Pope fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Nurmagomedov on the side of the head.
Pope throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Pope slips under a jab.
Pope lands a slapping body shot.
Pope moves forwards but Nurmagomedov connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Pope chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Eli Pope seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook but Pope avoids it easily.
Pope misses with a body shot.
A looping hook to the body misses from Pope. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Pope tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Pope.
Nurmagomedov changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Pope swings for the body but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov lunges at Pope with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Pope's hand.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nurmagomedov uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Pope has time to react.
Pope moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov walks into a jab.
Pope slips under a jab.
Pope has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Savage Gym in the buildup to the fight.
Pope just misses with a punch to the body. #T1#
Nurmagomedov takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Pope feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Nurmagomedovs jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Pope moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
Pope throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
Nurmagomedov feints the counter takedown.
Pope tries to work over Nurmagomedov's front leg with a kick but Nurmagomedov checks it.
Nurmagomedov checks a leg kick nicely.
Pope throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Nurmagomedov stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Pope takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Pope is looking to wear down Nurmagomedov with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Pope waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Nurmagomedov.
Pope misses with an attempted mid kick.
Pope connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
A solid leg kick lands there for Pope.
Nurmagomedov tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Pope paws at him with a jab and circles away.#CL2#
Nurmagomedov forces Pope back against the cage and clinches.
Nurmagomedov lands a right hand that snaps the head of Pope backwards.
Nurmagomedov struggles to land a body shot inside as Pope controls his hands.
Pope scores with a nice hook to the head.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Pope.
Nurmagomedov throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Popes head. #BC2#
Nurmagomedov breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Nurmagomedov missing with a left hand there. Pope was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one. #T2#
Nurmagomedov connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Pope momentarily.
Nurmagomedov cracks Pope with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Pope tries to clinch but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
A right-left combo lands from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov doesn't manage to clinch there - Pope circles away.
Nurmagomedov lands an overhand right.#CL2#
Nurmagomedov pushes Pope up against the cage in a clinch.
Nurmagomedov tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Pope's elbow.
Pope scores with an uppercut up the middle.#BC2#
Nurmagomedov pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Pope cracks Nurmagomedov with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Pope misses the shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov with the counter takedown but Pope avoids it easily.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Pope was well out of range.
Nurmagomedov throws a head kick but Pope moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Pope.
Nurmagomedov steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Pope.
A swing and a miss from Nurmagomedov.
Pope throws a sloppy body shot #TD2#
and Nurmagomedov decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Pope's guard.
Nurmagomedov missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Pope pulls Nurmagomedov in close to his closed guard and prevents Nurmagomedov from doing any damage or advancing position.#T3#
Nurmagomedov throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Pope managing to control the position.
Nurmagomedov postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Pope on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Pope tries to get out of the position.
Nurmagomedov wants to control from the top but Pope keeps moving.
Nurmagomedov throws a big right hand that misses.
Pope avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage 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.
Nurmagomedov postures up in Pope's guard and throws a big left but Pope blocks it.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Nurmagomedov passes Pope's left leg - he's now in half guard. #SUB2#
Nurmagomedov is looking for a kimura here.
Nurmagomedov throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Pope is refusing to be controlled, as Nurmagomedov sits in half guard.
Nurmagomedov missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Nurmagomedov is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that round.
That's time! Pope's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Pope swings for the body but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Pope lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.
Nurmagomedov uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Pope has time to react.
Nurmagomedov throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Nurmagomedov fails with a takedown attempt.
Nurmagomedov throws out a powerful jab.
Pope scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Khabib Nurmagomedov seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Pope throws a sloppy body shot
and Nurmagomedov counters with a straight right hand.
Nurmagomedov checks the leg kick.
Nurmagomedov moves away from the strike by Pope.
Nurmagomedov takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Nurmagomedov stuns Pope with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
A big right from Pope misses.
Nurmagomedov throws the left hand but Pope avoids the punch easily.
Nurmagomedov tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Nurmagomedov throws a big shot that misses.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nurmagomedov shoots in but no luck this time.
Nurmagomedov throws a head kick that misses.
Pope bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
It looked like Pope wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.#T1#
Pope misses with a wild body shot.
Pope throws a solid leg kick but Nurmagomedov takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Pope.
Nurmagomedov misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Pope misses with a looping left.
Pope throws out a powerful jab.
Nurmagomedov keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Pope.
Nurmagomedov misses with a double jab.
Nurmagomedov keeping at a good range here, avoiding a leg kick.
Nurmagomedov is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Pope connects with a solid leg kick.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut.
Pope moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Pope takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.#CL2#
Nurmagomedov clinches up against the cage.
Pope misses with a punch on the inside.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body punch.
Pope tries to throw a body punch but Nurmagomedov avoids it by throwing Pope back against the cage.
Pope misses with a hook from the clinch.
Pope struggles to land a body shot inside as Nurmagomedov controls his hands.
Nurmagomedov working hard to break the clinch.#T2#
Nurmagomedov stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.#BC#
Pope breaks the clinch.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nurmagomedov missing with a left hand there. Pope was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
A thudding body kick lands there by Pope!
Pope thows a leg kick but Nurmagomedov checks it #TD2#
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Nurmagomedov wants to take a breather but Pope is having none of it.
Nurmagomedov has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Pope blocking the ground and pound attempt from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Nurmagomedov sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Pope defending well though.
Nurmagomedov scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Nurmagomedov takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.
Pope is not content to let Nurmagomedov control the position.
Pope blocking the ground and pound attempt from Nurmagomedov. #T3#
Pope keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound. #SUB2#
Nurmagomedov is looking for a kimura here.
Nurmagomedov missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
The fighters are battling for position here. Pope manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Nurmagomedov with a flurry of punches that miss.
Pope avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Pope working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Nurmagomedov.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Nurmagomedov accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Nurmagomedov working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage. #T4#
Nurmagomedov loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Pope has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
Nurmagomedov in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Pope working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Nurmagomedov.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nurmagomedov working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Pope working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Nurmagomedov. #SUB2#
Nurmagomedov thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Nurmagomedov throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov 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#
A swing and a miss from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov misses the jab.
Nurmagomedov throws a body shot but no joy.
Nurmagomedov is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Pope throws a hook but Nurmagomedov blocks it.
Pope ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Nurmagomedov doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Pope connects with a leg kick.
Pope drops his hands momentarily and Nurmagomedov takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Pope misses with a body kick.
Nurmagomedov tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Nurmagomedov throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Nurmagomedov misses with a head kick.
Pope tries to land a front kick but Nurmagomedov steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Pope blocks a head kick by Nurmagomedov.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Pope throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
A low kick from Pope misses
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Pope will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away.
Pope throws a solid leg kick but Nurmagomedov takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Pope.
Nurmagomedov uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Pope.
Pope tries to score with a low kick but Nurmagomedov moves his leg out of the way.#T1#
Nurmagomedov connects with the punch.
Pope avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Nurmagomedov thows a left - swing and a miss!
Nurmagomedov avoids the body shot from Pope.
Pope throws a shot from downtown. Nurmagomedov moves away and avoids it.
Nurmagomedov throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Nice straight punches there by Nurmagomedov. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Pope sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Nurmagomedov just misses with a punch to the body.
Pope misses with an uppercut. Nurmagomedov saw that one coming.
Nurmagomedov misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Pope swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Nurmagomedov throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Pope lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Pope needs to keep his hands up - Nurmagomedov had a free shot at his head there.
A good leg kick by Pope.
Nurmagomedov jabs Pope to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Pope blocks a jab.
Pope throws a wild body kick that Nurmagomedov sees coming a mile off.
Nurmagomedov feints the counter takedown.
Eli Pope has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Khabib Nurmagomedov is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.#T2#
Pope on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Nurmagomedov pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Pope misses with a body kick.
Pope lands a body shot.
Pope swings for the body but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Pope.
Nurmagomedov lands a jab.
Pope tries to land a body kick
and Nurmagomedov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
A looping hook to the body misses from Pope. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Pope closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Nurmagomedov's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.
Pope is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
Nurmagomedov scores with a jab.
Pope throws a leg kick which misses Nurmagomedov's front leg but catches the back leg as Nurmagomedov tries to avoid it.
Pope misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov throws a head kick that misses.
Nurmagomedov takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.#CL2#
Pope tries to keep at a distance but Nurmagomedov has taken the fight into the clinch.
Pope can't find room to land a body shot as Nurmagomedov controls the action. #T3#
Pope tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Nurmagomedov's elbow.
Pope lands a left hand.
Pope misses with a punch to the body.
Pope scores with a shoulder strike.
Nurmagomedov pushes Pope back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Nurmagomedov.
Pope presses Nurmagomedov against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Pope misses with some punches.
Pope throws a punch but it's blocked by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov throws a punch but it's blocked by Pope.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Nurmagomedov. #T4#
A short right from Pope.
Pope doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Pope looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Nurmagomedov prevents a body shot from Pope.
A head punch on the inside from Pope fails to land.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Nurmagomedov takes a shot to the head.
Pope goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Nurmagomedov blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Pope misses with a short punch on the inside.
Pope misses with a hook to the ribs.
Nurmagomedov blocks an uppercut.
Nurmagomedov blocking some punches.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Khabib Nurmagomedov.
I've got Nurmagomedov 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 Sano scores the fight 27:30
Judge Tatsuya Matsuyama scores the fight 27:30
Judge Yasuomi Hirokawa scores the fight 28:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Khabib Nurmagomedov took some time post fight to say the following; 'I’m the GOAT.'.

Event: C358: Cheese vs Roberto II
Date: Nov 03, 2024

#R1#
Matikainen connects with a leg kick.
DaMatti Matikainen seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Donk. Nurmagomedov catches Matikainen right on the button with a cross.
A swing and a miss from Nurmagomedov.
Matikainen bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Nurmagomedov's head.
Matikainen dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Nurmagomedov. That did some damage!
Nurmagomedov doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov throws the left hand but Matikainen avoids the punch easily.
Nurmagomedov throws a right hand that Matikainen ducks under and follows up with a left that Matikainen also avoids with ease.
Matikainen with a jab.
Nurmagomedov steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Matikainen.
Nurmagomedov staying out of range there.
Matikainen throws out a loose jab but Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid it.
Nice shot by Nurmagomedov.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Nurmagomedov throws a looping overhand right but Matikainen ducks down to avoid it.
Matikainen fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Nurmagomedov checks it well.
Matikainen connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Matikainen was well out of range.
Matikainen looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Nice defenses there by Matikainen.
Nurmagomedov tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Matikainen moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
Matikainen walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Nurmagomedov tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Matikainen paws at him with a jab and circles away.#T1#
Nurmagomedov throws a big shot that misses.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Matikainen throws a head kick but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Matikainen tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Matikainen 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.
Nurmagomedov fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matikainen manages to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut. Matikainen saw that one coming.
Matikainen misses with a wild body shot.
Nurmagomedov lands the left hand.#CL#
Nurmagomedov has taken the fight to the clinch. #BC2#
Matikainen escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Matikainen throws a lazy uppercut
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice uppercut.
A jab from Nurmagomedov misses. #TD#
Nurmagomedov scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nurmagomedov prevents Matikainen from escaping the position.
Matikainen is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.
Matikainen prevents Nurmagomedov from moving into mount.
Nurmagomedov 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.
Matikainen is pushing Nurmagomedov's head away, looking to escape. Nurmagomedov manages to hold on to the position though.
Nurmagomedov is working Matikainen over with some ground and pound from side control. #T2#
Matikainen is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.
Nurmagomedov in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
Nurmagomedov working the body and head with strikes.
Matikainen taking a bit of punishment here - Nurmagomedov scoring with strikes.
Matikainen is trying to buck Nurmagomedov off.
Nurmagomedov is putting a hurting on Matikainen here, landing some big shots from side control.
Nurmagomedov is looking to take a break and control but Matikainen is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #ES2#
Matikainen throws his opponent off and manages to get back to his feet! Nicely done!
Matikainen tries to move into range but Nurmagomedov moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Matikainen with the inside leg kick.
Matikainen throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matikainen ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
Matikainen listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.#CL#
Nurmagomedov clinches up against the cage.#BC2#
Matikainen breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance. #T3#
A jab from Matikainen misses.
Matikainen takes a shot right to the bread basket.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matikainen. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matikainen keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Nurmagomedov.
It seemed like Matikainen was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Matikainen lands with a good body shot.
Nurmagomedov connects with a crisp jab.
DaMatti Matikainen is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Nurmagomedov takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
A head kick by Matikainen misses #TD#
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Nurmagomedov wants to pass to mount but Matikainen is defending the position.
Nurmagomedov stops Matikainen from getting back to his feet.
Matikainen taking some punishment here, with Nurmagomedov in his half guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Nurmagomedov stops Matikainen from getting back to his feet. #ES2#
Matikainen kicks off Nurmagomedov and gets to his feet.
Matikainen throws a jab when Nurmagomedov was well out of range.
Matikainen throws a lazy uppercut
and Nurmagomedov counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Matikainen lands a leg kick that knocks Nurmagomedov off balance momentarily.
Nurmagomedov is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.#T4#
Nurmagomedov throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Matikainen swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Nurmagomedov is really peppering his opponent's head with punches.
Matikainen takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Nurmagomedov lands a jab to Matikainen's midsection.
Matikainen misses with a hook. Nurmagomedov ducked under it nicely.
Nurmagomedov tries to close the distance and clinch but Matikainen swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
A low kick lands for Matikainen.
A telegraphed right hand from Nurmagomedov misses the target.
Jab, jab by Nurmagomedov - just one landing.
Nurmagomedov scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Matikainen circles away from the clinch attempt.
Matikainen lands a jab to the head.
Matikainen swats away the attempt to clinch by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Matikainen throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Nurmagomedov is looking to counter with head kicks.
Nurmagomedov throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch up but Matikainen circles away and keeps his distance.
Nurmagomedov throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that round.
That's time! Nurmagomedov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Nurmagomedov doesn't manage to clinch there - Matikainen circles away.
Matikainen throws a leg kick that is checked
and Nurmagomedov counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Matikainen throws a right and a left that Nurmagomedov avoids nicely.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut.
Matikainen slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Matikainen misses with a straight right.
Nurmagomedov keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Matikainen.
Matikainen jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Nurmagomedov shoots in for a takedown but Matikainen shows good takedown defense. #CL#
Nurmagomedov has closed the distance and engaged Matikainen in a clinch.
Nurmagomedov tries to work over Matikainen's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Matikainen lands with a short head shot on the inside. #TD#
Nurmagomedov ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Nurmagomedov no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard.
Nurmagomedov has a closed guard, preventing Matikainen from standing up.
Nurmagomedov 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.#SU2#
Matikainen stands and steps away. Nurmagomedov gets to his feet too and we're back to the striking game.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Matikainen staying out of range there.
Khabib Nurmagomedov is winning the standup battle so far.
Nurmagomedov lands a nice hook to Matikainen's body. Matikainen takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Matikainen connects with a good right hand that stumbles Nurmagomedov. Nurmagomedov circles away out of range and recomposes himself.#T1#
Matikainen fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Nurmagomedov checks it well.
Matikainen throws a lazy right hand but Nurmagomedov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Matikainen misses with a double jab.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut.
Matikainen dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
The fighters circle momentarily. Nurmagomedov darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Nurmagomedov scores with a jab to the jaw.
Matikainen throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Nurmagomedov looks to throw the jab but Matikainen is out of range.
Matikainen feints and then cracks Nurmagomedov's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Nurmagomedov down.
Nurmagomedov takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Nurmagomedov feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Matikainens jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Matikainen slips under a jab.
Matikainen blocks a head kick by Nurmagomedov.
A leg kick checked by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nurmagomedov misses with a left hand
enabling Matikainen to counter with a crisp jab.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook.#T2#
Nurmagomedov checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut.
Nurmagomedov lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Matikainen throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matikainen looks to score with a jab to the body but Nurmagomedov is just out of range.
Nurmagomedov changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Matikainen slips a straight right by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov looks to land a right hand but Matikainen moved out of range.
Nurmagomedov keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Matikainen.
Matikainen throws out a loose jab but Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid it.
A slapping leg kick lands for Matikainen.
Nurmagomedov doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Matikainen throws a jab when Nurmagomedov was well out of range.
Matikainen uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Matikainen throws a poor cross that misses
letting Nurmagomedov counter with a right hand.
Jab by Nurmagomedov.
A big left from Matikainen misses.
Nurmagomedov smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the side of Matikainen's head but Matikainen sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.#T3#
Matikainen loads up on a big right hand but Nurmagomedov slips the punch.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Matikainen was well out of range.
Matikainen has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Nurmagomedov throws a head kick but Matikainen moves out of range.
Matikainen throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Matikainen does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.
Nurmagomedov connects with a crisp jab.
Nurmagomedov throws a lazy right hand but Matikainen sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Nurmagomedov fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matikainen manages to avoid it.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matikainen. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Nurmagomedov misses the jab.
Matikainen avoids a punch combination nicely.
Matikainen slips under a jab.
Nurmagomedov uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Matikainen throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Nurmagomedov scores with the left hand. Matikainen knows he should have avoided that one.
Matikainen throws a looping overhand right but Nurmagomedov ducks down to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Matikainen has time to react.#T4#
Nurmagomedov bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Matikainen's head.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nurmagomedov moves out of range of the strikes.
Matikainen scores with a leg kick.
Matikainen loads up on a big right hand but Nurmagomedov slips the punch.
Matikainen defending well as Nurmagomedov loads up on a big left hand.
Matikainen misses with a hook.
Matikainen uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
Matikainen appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Nice uppercut there from Nurmagomedov.
Matikainen throws a body shot but no joy.
Matikainen throws a lazy uppercut
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Nurmagomedov shoots in and drives through. Matikainen sprawls well.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab but it's blocked by Matikainen.
Matikainen tries a head kick but it misses.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Matikainen needs to keep his hands up - Nurmagomedov had a free shot at his head there.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right.
A nice side step and Matikainen releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Matikainen throws a hook to the side of Nurmagomedov's head but Nurmagomedov sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Nurmagomedov looks to land a right hand but Matikainen moved out of range.
Nurmagomedov with a body punch. A glancing blow.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that second round.
That's time! Nurmagomedov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3#
Matikainen throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
DaMatti Matikainen has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Nurmagomedov connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Matikainen misses with a few strikes there.
Nurmagomedov scores with a crisp jab that stopped Matikainen in his tracks.
A left lands for Matikainen.
Matikainen uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Nurmagomedov.
Matikainen misses the shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov throws a sloppy head kick and Matikainen moves out of range easily.
Matikainen ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Nurmagomedov moves away.
Nurmagomedov drops down looking for a counter takedown but Matikainen sprawls and moves away.
Nurmagomedov takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Matikainen.#CL#
Nurmagomedov clinches up with Matikainen and pushes him back against the cage.#BC2#
Matikainen escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Matikainen circles away from the clinch attempt.
Matikainen throws a sloppy head kick and Nurmagomedov moves out of range easily.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matikainen swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Matikainen thows a leg kick but Nurmagomedov checks it #TD#
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Nurmagomedov lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Nurmagomedov keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Matikainen's head.#T1##ES2#
Matikainen is scooting his butt against the cage and has managed to get back to his feet. Nurmagomedov presses him back against the cage, presumably looking to take the fight back to the mat.
Nurmagomedov lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Matikainen backwards.
Still in the clinch, Matikainen scores with a nice short uppercut.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Nurmagomedov creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Nurmagomedov tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Nurmagomedov blocking some punches.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Matikainen. #BC2#
Matikainen escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Matikainen pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Nurmagomedov connects with a single shot there.
Nurmagomedov works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Nurmagomedov scores with a sloppy right hand. Matikainen should have avoided that one.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nice defenses there by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov scores with a shot to the body.
A low kick from Matikainen is predictable there
and Matikainen takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Matikainen avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Matikainen misses the body punch
and Nurmagomedov counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
A clash of legs there as Nurmagomedov blocks the low kick.
Khabib Nurmagomedov is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T2#
Nurmagomedov ducks under a wild hook from Matikainen.
Nurmagomedov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matikainen was well out of range. Poor timing from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Matikainen misses with a head kick.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Matikainen was well out of range.
Matikainen swats away the attempt to clinch by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov takes a swing at Matikainen's ribcage but misses.
Nurmagomedov throws a sloppy head kick and Matikainen moves out of range easily.
Nurmagomedov moves in looking to clinch but Matikainen pushes him off.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matikainen. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matikainen blocks a head kick by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov slips a jab from Matikainen.
Jab by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Matikainen manages to avoid it.
Good shot there by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right. #T3#
Nurmagomedov moves in looking to clinch but Matikainen pushes him off.
Matikainen with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Nurmagomedov to score with a decent uppercut.
Matikainen swings away with a body shot that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Matikainen throws a poor cross that misses
and Nurmagomedov makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Nurmagomedov defending well as Matikainen loads up on a big left hand.
Matikainen throws a jab but it's blocked by Nurmagomedov.
Matikainen shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Nurmagomedov misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Matikainen swings for the body but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Matikainen blocks a head kick by Nurmagomedov. #TD#
Nurmagomedov feints and as Matikainen raises his hands in defense, Nurmagomedov changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.

Matikainen scrambles and gets back to his feet.
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!
Matikainen moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Nurmagomedov avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
A clash of legs there as Nurmagomedov blocks the low kick.
Matikainen misses with a straight left. #T4#
Matikainen tries to move into range but Nurmagomedov moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.#CL#
Nurmagomedov closes the distance and pushes Matikainen back into the cage.
Matikainen pushes Nurmagomedov back against the cage and unloads with a body punch. #BC2#
Matikainen escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Matikainen takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
A jab from Matikainen misses.
Nurmagomedov feinted with a counter takedown.
Nurmagomedov keeping at a good range here, avoiding a leg kick.
Matikainen throws the left hand but Nurmagomedov avoids the punch easily.
A little feinted left hand from Nurmagomedov on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Nurmagomedov looks to land a right hand but Matikainen moved out of range.
Matikainen throws a head kick that misses.
Nurmagomedov cracks a nice hook into Matikainen's ribs.
A nice combination there by Nurmagomedov.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Matikainen pivots, looking for a leg kick but Nurmagomedov is out of range and Matikainen settles back down.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matikainen. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Matikainen blocks a jab.
Nurmagomedov is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.

And that's the end of the fight!
Khabib Nurmagomedov showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Nurmagomedov 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 Alan Glass scores the fight 30:27
Judge Robert Twigg scores the fight 30:27
Judge Wesley Smith scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Khabib Nurmagomedov took to the mic in his post fight interview and said 'I’m the GOAT.'.

Event: C352: Khabib vs Rome
Date: Oct 20, 2024

#R1#
Rome staying out of range there.#TD2#
Rome shoots in and gets a takedown into Nurmagomedov's guard.
Rome is pushing down on Nurmagomedov's leg trying to pass to half guard. Nurmagomedov is fighting to maintain full guard but Rome has managed to sneak the leg through.
Nurmagomedov is not content to let Rome control the position.
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Rome is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Nurmagomedov's coaches at Casa Steel have been working on his defensive grappling in preparation for this fight so let's see if he can get out of this tricky position.
Nurmagomedov tries to roll over but Rome keeps him under control.
Nurmagomedov is working hard here to advance position.
Nurmagomedov keeping control of the leg, stopping his opponent passing to mount.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Rome passes to side control.
Nurmagomedov sneaks back into half guard.#T1#
Rome not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Rome frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Nurmagomedov tries to get back to half guard but can't. #SUB2#
Rome looking to isolate an arm here. Nurmagomedov doesn't see it coming and as Rome extends the arm, he's forced to tap out! Nice submission by Rome!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:44 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Curtis Rome!
Curtis Rome is the new lightweight champion!
Curtis Rome managed to slip a mention for his sponsors, Uncle Rufus Clothing .Co, into his post fight interview.

Event: C347: Khabib vs Bloodaxe III
Date: Oct 06, 2024

#R1#
Nurmagomedov uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Bloodaxe manages to avoid it.
Bloodaxe misses the jab.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nurmagomedov keeping at a good range here, avoiding a leg kick.
Bloodaxe loads up on a big right hand but Nurmagomedov slips the punch.
Bloodaxe with a nice calf kick.
Bloodaxe scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.#CL#
Nurmagomedov has Bloodaxe up against the cage in a clinch. #TD2#
Bloodaxe jumps guard and drags Nurmagomedov to the mat. He's obviously going to be looking for submissions off his back. #SUB2#
Bloodaxe looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Bloodaxe 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.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Nurmagomedov's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Bloodaxe looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Bloodaxe working a defensive guard here. #T1##SUB2#
Nurmagomedov got a little sloppy there for a moment and Bloodaxe has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Nurmagomedov has managed to get both his arms back between Bloodaxe's legs - danger averted.
Nurmagomedov makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Nurmagomedov with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Nurmagomedov landing some decent shots from guard.
Nurmagomedov throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Bloodaxe works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov wants to pass the guard but Bloodaxe is keeping the position.
Nurmagomedov postures up and lands a big shot to Bloodaxe's brow.
Bloodaxe can't keep his opponent in guard - Nurmagomedov advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Nurmagomedov lands a nice short elbow.
Nurmagomedov 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.
Nurmagomedov prevents Bloodaxe from improving his position.#T2#
Nurmagomedov is thwarting Bloodaxe's attempts to control the position.
Bloodaxe keeping control of the leg, stopping his opponent passing to mount.
Nurmagomedov lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Nurmagomedov lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Nurmagomedov is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Bloodaxe trying to control here.
Nurmagomedov trying to mount his opponent but Bloodaxe defends it.
Bloodaxe manages to get to full guard. #T3#
Bloodaxe is trying to keep Nurmagomedov in close.
Nurmagomedov landing some decent shots from guard.
Nurmagomedov content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots. #SUB2#
Bloodaxe is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Nurmagomedov lands a couple of elbows.
Nurmagomedov wants to control from the top but Bloodaxe keeps moving.
Nurmagomedov landing with the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov wants to pass the guard but Bloodaxe is keeping the position.#T4#
Nurmagomedov wants to control from the top but Bloodaxe keeps moving.
Bloodaxe is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Bloodaxe looking to hit a scissor sweep but Nurmagomedov is one step ahead there.
Nurmagomedov working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nurmagomedov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Bloodaxe is keeping the position for now.
Nurmagomedov working some strikes from top position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that round.
That's time! Nurmagomedov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Bloodaxe was well out of range.
Nurmagomedov looks to land a right hand but Bloodaxe moved out of range.
The fighters circle momentarily. Nurmagomedov darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Bloodaxe ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Nurmagomedov moves away.
A left lands for Nurmagomedov.
Bloodaxe uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Bloodaxe.
Bloodaxe fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Bloodaxe uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Nurmagomedov has time to react.
Nurmagomedov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Nurmagomedov thows a left - swing and a miss!
Bloodaxe dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Nurmagomedov. That did some damage!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bloodaxe throws a leg kick which misses Nurmagomedov's front leg but catches the back leg as Nurmagomedov tries to avoid it.
A thudding body kick lands there by Bloodaxe!
Bloodaxe misses with an uppercut.
Nurmagomedov swings and misses with a hook to the body.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nurmagomedov keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Bloodaxe throws a jab when Nurmagomedov was well out of range.
Nurmagomedov was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.#T1##TD#
Nurmagomedov scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Nurmagomedov working Bloodaxe over with strikes.
Nurmagomedov looks to score some points with some ground and pound.#SUB2#
Bloodaxe looking for submissions off his back.
Nurmagomedov landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent. #SUB2#
Bloodaxe is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Nurmagomedov pulls his head out easily.
Nurmagomedov 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.
Bloodaxe on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #T2#
Bloodaxe tries to get to full guard but Nurmagomedov has control of the leg.
Nurmagomedov working the head and body with strikes.
Khabib Nurmagomedov overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nurmagomedov wants to take a breather but Bloodaxe is having none of it.
Bloodaxe is pressing down on Nurmagomedov's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Nurmagomedov advances to half guard.
Nurmagomedov working the head and body with strikes.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control. Bloodaxe wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Nurmagomedov scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Nurmagomedov is nestled in close to Bloodaxe, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Nurmagomedov drops an elbow to the side of Bloodaxe's head.
Bloodaxe is doing well to avoid being mounted. He's controlling the position at the moment.
Bloodaxe is trying to control but can't. #T3#
Nurmagomedov drops an elbow to the side of Bloodaxe's head.
Nurmagomedov prevents Bloodaxe from improving his position.
Nurmagomedov 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.
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. Nurmagomedov connects with a nice short shot to Bloodaxe's temple.
Nurmagomedov slips a nice elbow through Bloodaxe's hands, connecting with Bloodaxe's forehead.#SUB#
Bloodaxe is defending against the submission attempts here by Nurmagomedov.
Bloodaxe is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Nurmagomedov's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Nurmagomedov's back!
Nurmagomedov is trying to break free. #SUB2#
Bloodaxe working for a choke but Nurmagomedov is defending well.
Bloodaxe doesn't have the hooks in and Nurmagomedov manages to turn into his guard. #T4#
Nurmagomedov lands a couple of decent looking shots.#SUB2#
Bloodaxe looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#SUB2#
Nurmagomedov got a little sloppy there for a moment and Bloodaxe has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Nurmagomedov has managed to get both his arms back between Bloodaxe's legs - danger averted.
Bloodaxe is breathing heavily.
Bloodaxe has momentary wrist control but Nurmagomedov slips an elbow through the middle.
Bloodaxe pulls Nurmagomedov in close to prevent any damage.
Nurmagomedov works over Bloodaxe with some ground and pound from guard.
Nurmagomedov scoring with punches to the head and body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that second round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R3#
Nurmagomedov cracks Bloodaxe with a right hand to the side of the head.
Khabib Nurmagomedov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Bloodaxe throws a leg kick but Nurmagomedov sees it coming and checks it nicely.
Nurmagomedov connects with a good right hand that stumbles Bloodaxe. Bloodaxe circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Bloodaxe uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Bloodaxe feints a counter leg kick.
Bloodaxe scoring well with a low kick there. #CL#
Nurmagomedov pushes Bloodaxe up against the cage in a clinch.#TD#
Nurmagomedov drags the fight down to the ground.
Bloodaxe works a leg free and moves into half guard. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Bloodaxe trying to control the pace.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov wants to improve his position but Bloodaxe is controlling well.
Bloodaxe moves nicely into side control. #T1#
Bloodaxe is looking to take a break and control but Nurmagomedov is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Bloodaxe controlling from side mount. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Nurmagomedov is looking to reverse the position.
Nurmagomedov regains half guard.#SUB#
Nurmagomedov looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Nurmagomedov is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Bloodaxe pulls his head out easily.
Nurmagomedov is trying to maintain the position but Bloodaxe is very close to passing his half guard.
Nurmagomedov is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control but can't. #T3##SUB#
Nurmagomedov actively working from the bottom here.
Nurmagomedov is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Bloodaxe can do to turn this around?
Nurmagomedov is looking for a sweep. Bloodaxe is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#SUB#
Nurmagomedov is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Bloodaxe pulls his head out easily. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov looking for submissions off his back.
Nurmagomedov tries to roll over but Bloodaxe keeps him under control.
Bloodaxe content to sit in half guard and control for a moment.
We must be close to a standup if these guys don't pick up the pace.
Nurmagomedov regains full guard. Nicely done. #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.
Bloodaxe controls from within his opponent's guard.
Nurmagomedov keeping moving, preventing Bloodaxe from controlling successfully. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov working for a triangle but Bloodaxe defends it easily. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov is looking to cinch up a triangle. Bloodaxe throws the leg off to one side though and gets in tight to Nurmagomedov's body to avoid the submission. Nurmagomedov has instead reached around Bloodaxe's neck and now has a guillotine! Oh, this is biiiig trouble! Nurmagomedov arches his back and squeezes and forces the tap from his hapless opponent.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:47 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Khabib Nurmagomedov retains his lightweight title!
Post fight, an emotional Khabib Nurmagomedov said 'I think Gunnar should retire.'.

Event: C343: Bloodaxe vs Khabib II
Date: Sep 22, 2024

#R1#
Bloodaxe misses the shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov checks the leg kick.
Nurmagomedov swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Nurmagomedov avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Bloodaxe has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Blacktalians MMA in the buildup to the fight.
A telegraphed right hand from Bloodaxe misses the target.
Nurmagomedov swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Nurmagomedov moves out of range of the strikes.
Nurmagomedov avoids the body shot from Bloodaxe.
A nice leg kick from Bloodaxe, right into the meat of the thigh.
Nurmagomedov blocks a leg kick.
Nice defenses there by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov lands a slapping body shot.
Nurmagomedov takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Nurmagomedov looks to land a left hand but Bloodaxe moved out of range nicely.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov throws a body shot but no joy.
Bloodaxe connects with the punch.
Nurmagomedov thows a left - swing and a miss!
A quick step to the side and Bloodaxe tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Bloodaxe throws a hook but Nurmagomedov avoids it easily.
Nurmagomedov with the counter takedown but Bloodaxe avoids it easily.
Bloodaxe walks into a jab.
Bloodaxe fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.#T1#
Bloodaxe drops his hands momentarily and Nurmagomedov takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
The fighters circle momentarily. Bloodaxe darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
A swing and a miss from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Nurmagomedov throws a body punch but Bloodaxe moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook but Bloodaxe blocks it.
Nurmagomedov's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Bloodaxe connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Nurmagomedov scrambles back to his feet.
Nurmagomedov dives in and grabs Bloodaxe's left leg, looking for a takedown. Bloodaxe pushes down on Nurmagomedov's head and hops out.
Bloodaxe gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Nurmagomedov scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
A low kick from Bloodaxe misses
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Nurmagomedov lands a jab to the nose.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nurmagomedov lands with an uppercut that bounces Bloodaxe off the cage and back into range.
Bloodaxe throws a hook but Nurmagomedov blocks it.
Nurmagomedov defending well as Bloodaxe loads up on a big left hand.
Bloodaxe swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Nurmagomedov let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Bloodaxe thows a left - swing and a miss! #T2#
Bloodaxe throws a right hand that misses #TD2#
so Nurmagomedov counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Bloodaxe trying to control the position.
Bloodaxe controlling the position.
Nurmagomedov trying to control but Bloodaxe is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Bloodaxe is looking for a triangle but Nurmagomedov pushes his legs off easily.
Nurmagomedov is working Bloodaxe over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Nurmagomedov throws a big right hand that misses.
Nurmagomedov trying to control but Bloodaxe is working from the bottom.
Bloodaxe preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Nurmagomedov trying to control but Bloodaxe is working from the bottom.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Nurmagomedov wants to pass the guard but Bloodaxe is keeping the position.#T3#
Nurmagomedov content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Nurmagomedov lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Nurmagomedov is in close to Bloodaxe's body, working some short punches and elbows.#SUB#
Bloodaxe is looking for a triangle but Nurmagomedov pushes his legs off easily.
Nurmagomedov postures up and lands a big shot to Bloodaxe's brow. #SUB#
Bloodaxe throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Nurmagomedov passes Bloodaxe's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Bloodaxe trying to control but Nurmagomedov postures up.
Nurmagomedov lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt. #T4#
Bloodaxe is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Nurmagomedov scores with a couple of nice shots.
Nurmagomedov working the head and body with strikes.
Bloodaxe gets back to full guard.
Nurmagomedov scoring with punches to the head and body.
Bloodaxe tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Nurmagomedov is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Bloodaxe working a defensive guard here.
Nurmagomedov working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Bloodaxe's head.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Nurmagomedov trying to control the position from guard on top but Bloodaxe is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Nurmagomedov wants to pass the guard but Bloodaxe is keeping the position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov 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#
Bloodaxe lands with a thumping leg kick.
Nurmagomedov defending well as Bloodaxe loads up on a big left hand.
A slow jab from Nurmagomedov misses its intended target.
Nurmagomedov misses the shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping left.
Nurmagomedov takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch but Bloodaxe is having none of it.
Nurmagomedov ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Bloodaxe moves away.
Bloodaxe steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Nurmagomedov getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Bloodaxe stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook but Bloodaxe avoids it easily.
A big left from Nurmagomedov misses.
Nurmagomedov ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Bloodaxe moves away.
Bloodaxe looks to land a right hand but Nurmagomedov moved out of range.
Nice defenses there by Nurmagomedov.#T1#
Bloodaxe slips under a jab.
A slow jab from Nurmagomedov misses its intended target.
Gunnar Bloodaxe is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Bloodaxe.
Bloodaxe looks to land a left hand but Nurmagomedov moved out of range nicely.
Khabib Nurmagomedov seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Nice shot lands for Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
A swing and a miss from Bloodaxe.
Nice shot lands for Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov throws a head kick that misses.
A left lands for Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov connects with a nice looking jab.
Bloodaxe with a nice calf kick.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right.
Nurmagomedov moves out of range as Bloodaxe throws a body kick.
Nurmagomedov stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov ducks under a wild hook from Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov throws out a counter right but Bloodaxe avoids it with no problem.
Bloodaxe misses with an uppercut. Nurmagomedov saw that one coming.#T2#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Bloodaxe misses the shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov lands with a straight right. Bloodaxe didn't see that one coming.
Bloodaxe jabs Nurmagomedov to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Nurmagomedov throws a head kick but Bloodaxe moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov wants to clinch up but Bloodaxe keeps it at a distance.
Bloodaxe looks to land a left hand but Nurmagomedov moved out of range nicely.
Nurmagomedov takes a swing at Bloodaxe's ribcage but misses.
Nurmagomedov looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Bloodaxe half committed to a counter leg kick.
Nurmagomedov uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Bloodaxe.
A jab from Nurmagomedov does it's job there.
Nurmagomedov works the jab nicely.
Bloodaxe misses the jab.
Nurmagomedov drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Bloodaxe defends it well.
Jab, jab by Bloodaxe - just one landing.
Bloodaxe misses with a hook to the body
and Nurmagomedov counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Nurmagomedov throws a shot from downtown. Bloodaxe moves away and avoids it.#T3#
Bloodaxe uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov moves out of range of the strikes.
Nurmagomedov looks to land a right hand but Bloodaxe moved out of range.
A big right from Nurmagomedov misses.
Nurmagomedov tries to close the distance and clinch up but Bloodaxe swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Bloodaxe throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Nurmagomedov on the side of the head.
Good standup being displayed there by Bloodaxe as he connects with a hook.
Nice defenses there by Bloodaxe.
Bloodaxe misses with an uppercut.
Nurmagomedov missing with a left hand there. Bloodaxe was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right.
Nurmagomedov lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.
Bloodaxe misses the jab.
Nurmagomedov throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Bloodaxe slips under a jab.
Bloodaxe throws out a token jab with nothing on it.#T4#
Bloodaxe tries to land a leg kick but Nurmagomedov saw it coming and moves away.
A big left from Bloodaxe misses.
Nurmagomedov throws an off balance right hand
and Bloodaxe counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nurmagomedov throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Bloodaxe swings for the body but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov throws a shot from downtown. Bloodaxe moves away and avoids it.
Nurmagomedov checks a low kick from Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov misses with a left hand
and Bloodaxe counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Bloodaxe drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Nurmagomedov misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Bloodaxe throws a lazy right hand but Nurmagomedov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Bloodaxe throws a body shot but no joy.
Bloodaxe lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Bloodaxe throws a body punch but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov tries a head kick but it misses.
Bloodaxe ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Khabib Nurmagomedov will probably get the nod - 10:9.
That's time! Bloodaxe's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R3#
Nurmagomedov throws a jab but it's blocked by Bloodaxe.
Bloodaxe lands a right hook to the body.
Bloodaxe missing with a left hand there. Nurmagomedov was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Nurmagomedov works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
A bone on bone clash there as Nurmagomedov blocks the leg kick.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut.
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping right.
Nurmagomedov takes a swing at Bloodaxe's ribcage but misses. #CL2#
Nurmagomedov moves into the clinch successfully.
Nurmagomedov lands a nice uppercut.
A body shot lands from Nurmagomedov.
A short right from Bloodaxe on the inside.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bloodaxe looks like he'd prefer to be striking at range right now.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body punch. #BC#
Bloodaxe breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Nurmagomedov ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Nurmagomedov looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Bloodaxe slips a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov lands a jab to the nose.#T1#
A jab from Nurmagomedov misses.
Nurmagomedov throws a lazy head kick
and Bloodaxe counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Nurmagomedov moves out of range as Bloodaxe strikes.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight left.
Bloodaxe throws a low kick but Nurmagomedov moves out of range easily.
Bloodaxe buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Good leg kick by Bloodaxe.
Khabib Nurmagomedov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nurmagomedov throws an off balance right hand
and Bloodaxe counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Bloodaxe avoids the body shot from Nurmagomedov.
A big right from Bloodaxe misses.
Nurmagomedov throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
A swing and a miss from Bloodaxe.
Bloodaxe misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nurmagomedov.
Bloodaxe uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Bloodaxe counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
A big right from Nurmagomedov misses. #T2#
A jab from Nurmagomedov does it's job there.
Nurmagomedov lands the left hand.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!#CL2#
Nurmagomedov closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Nurmagomedov blocks a punch to the side of the head. #BC#
Bloodaxe manages to break the clinch.
Bloodaxe thows a leg kick but Nurmagomedov checks it #TD2#
and Nurmagomedov counters with a takedown into side control.
Nurmagomedov lands a decent elbow from side control.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has got the better of the ground game so far.
Nurmagomedov advances to full mount.
Nurmagomedov looking to finish Bloodaxe with some ground and pound. This is bad for Bloodaxe!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
A nice elbow there by Nurmagomedov.
A nice elbow there by Nurmagomedov.#ROC2#Bloodaxe is rocked!
BOOM! Nurmagomedov connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Oh Bloodaxe is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Nurmagomedov lands a big shot to the head and Bloodaxe winces in pain. He's tapped out due to strikes!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:55 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Khabib Nurmagomedov is the new lightweight champion!
Khabib Nurmagomedov took some time post fight to say the following; 'Give me Cheese cake or Bloodarse'.

Event: C338: Cheese vs Green III
Date: Sep 01, 2024

#R1#
Nurmagomedov misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Jiang fakes a jab and scores with a low kick.
Nurmagomedov paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Nurmagomedov jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Jiang finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Nurmagomedov scores with a body shot. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Jiang quickly recovers to half guard.
Nurmagomedov missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Jiang keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound. #SUB2#
Nurmagomedov is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nurmagomedov trying to mount his opponent but Jiang defends it. #T1##SUB2#
Nurmagomedov is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
Nurmagomedov is keen to just control but Jiang is a slippery customer.
Nurmagomedov misses with a head shot. Jiang uses the momentum to regain guard.
Jiang working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Nurmagomedov. #T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Nurmagomedov stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Jiang swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Nurmagomedov trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Nurmagomedov is in close to Jiang's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Nurmagomedov with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Nurmagomedov engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Jiang keeping moving, preventing Nurmagomedov from controlling successfully.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T3#
Nurmagomedov showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Nurmagomedov throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Jiang misses with a low kick.
Jiang throws a jab when Nurmagomedov was well out of range.
Jiang throws out a loose jab but Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid it.
Jiang throws a nice outside leg kick.
Nurmagomedov scores with a jab.
Nurmagomedov 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.
Jiang takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut
and Jiang counters with a nice body shot. #T4#
Nurmagomedov shoots for a double leg takedown but Jiang sprawls well. He's pushed Nurmagomedov's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Jiang is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov misses the jab.
Jiang on the wrong end of a nice hook.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Jiang throws a leg kick which misses Nurmagomedov's front leg but catches the back leg as Nurmagomedov tries to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov keeps the fight on the outside.
Nurmagomedov throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Nurmagomedov clobbers Jiang with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Nurmagomedov closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so. #CUT#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Jiang walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Nurmagomedov avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Jiang lands with a thumping leg kick.
Jiang slaps away a takedown attempt from Nurmagomedov, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Da Jiang has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Jiang takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Jiang lands with a kick to the ribs.
Jiang moves out of range of the strikes.
Jiang connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
Nurmagomedov pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Nurmagomedov throws out a loose jab but Jiang uses good head movement to avoid it.
An attempted straight right counter from Jiang misses the target.
Jiang connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Nurmagomedov jabbing away but nothing is landing.
As Nurmagomedov backs away, Jiang returns fire with a leg kick that just misses.
Jiang slips a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Jiang jabbing away but nothing is landing.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Nurmagomedov! But no joy.
Jiang keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov throws a looping overhand right but Jiang ducks down to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov misses with a wild body shot.
Nice uppercut lands for Jiang. That snapped Nurmagomedov's head back.
Khabib Nurmagomedov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nurmagomedov works Jiang's body with a nice hook.
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!
Jiang misses with a lunging right hand #TD2#
and Nurmagomedov decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Jiang's guard.#T1#
Nurmagomedov stops Jiang from standing up.
Nurmagomedov tries to free his leg and advance position but Jiang is retaining full guard.
Nurmagomedov throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Nurmagomedov throws a big right hand that misses.
Jiang utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Jiang avoiding any damage from the ground and pound. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Jiang looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Nurmagomedov. #CL#
Jiang gets a clinch. #T2#
Jiang misses with the head strike.
Nurmagomedov tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Jiang's elbow. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has got the better of the ground game so far.
Nurmagomedov looking to control. #SUB2#
Nurmagomedov is looking for a triangle but Jiang pushes his legs off easily.
Our spies down at at Casa Steel inform us that Nurmagomedov has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?
Nurmagomedov looking to control.
Nurmagomedov working a defensive guard but Jiang passes into half guard.
It looks like Jiang is going to stand back up.
Nurmagomedov wants to get back to full guard but Jiang has mounted him!#T3##SU#
Jiang stands up from the dominant position. He obviously fancies his chances standing.
Jiang throws out a loose jab but Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid it. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Jiang is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Nurmagomedov asserts his dominance and retains side control.
Nurmagomedov taking a breather here.
Jiang prevents Nurmagomedov from improving position. #T4#
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Jiang is keeping him busy.
Nurmagomedov working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
Nurmagomedov throwing shots but missing, from side control.
Jiang wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!
Nurmagomedov looking to control but instead Jiang has slipped a leg in, to regain half guard.
Jiang keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov winds up and cracks Jiang 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 second round but Khabib Nurmagomedov will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! 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#
Jiang needs to keep his hands up - Nurmagomedov had a free shot at his head there.
Nurmagomedov lands with a good body shot.#CL#
Jiang rushes Nurmagomedov and presses him up against the cage.
Jiang is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Nurmagomedov is defending well for now.
Jiang is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Nurmagomedov is keeping busy.
Jiang misses with the head strike.
Jiang throws a head punch that misses. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov turns his hips and lands a very nice judo throw into side control!
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Jiang is keeping him busy.
Nurmagomedov fails to land a wild elbow strike.
Nurmagomedov trying to control the action but Jiang is working from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov looking to control but instead Jiang has slipped a leg in, to regain half guard.#T1##SUB2#
Nurmagomedov is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
Nurmagomedov content to control rather than advance.
Nurmagomedov sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Jiang defending well though. #ES#
Jiang kicks off Nurmagomedov and gets to his feet.
Khabib Nurmagomedov is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.#T2#
Nice straight punches there by Nurmagomedov. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Nurmagomedov.
Jiang walks into a straight right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
Nurmagomedov looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Jiang bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Jiang looks to score with a jab to the body but Nurmagomedov is just out of range.
Nurmagomedov changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
A big right from Nurmagomedov misses.
Sloppy strikes from Jiang. Those never looked like landing.
Nurmagomedov lands with a straight right. Jiang didn't see that one coming.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook but Jiang blocks it.
A left lands for Jiang.
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!
Nurmagomedov tries to move into range but Jiang moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Nurmagomedov swings widly with a right hand
and Jiang counters with a good low kick that Nurmagomedov was not able to check.
Jiang walks into a straight right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Jiang moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
Da Jiang has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T3##CL#
Nurmagomedov gets tackled into the cage by Jiang. Jiang maintains the clinch.
A short left from Jiang.
Nurmagomedov tries to pull guard but Jiang forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Nurmagomedov prevents a body shot from Jiang.
Jiang swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Nurmagomedov tries to pull guard but Jiang won't allow it.
Jiang landing knees to the body.
Jiang is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Nurmagomedov is defending well for now.
Nurmagomedov has a couple of punches blocked by Jiang.
Jiang goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Nurmagomedov blocks an uppercut.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body punch. #T4#
The pace slowing considerably in the clinch, as Jiang takes a break from that fighting nonsense to think about the finer things in life.
Jiang lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Jiang tries to land knees in the clinch but Nurmagomedov avoids the damage to the body.
Jiang lands a nice shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov managing to block the knees to the body from Jiang.
Jiang misses with a hook to the ribs.
Nurmagomedov tries to pull guard but Jiang holds him up against the cage and eventually Nurmagomedov drops back down to his feet.
Da Jiang has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
A short body shot lands from Jiang as the two fighters clinch.
Jiang misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Jiang with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Jiang throws a head punch that misses.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Chris Downing scores the fight 28:29
Judge Stewart Dunkirk scores the fight 29:29
Judge Cecil Peabody scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by majority decision... Khabib Nurmagomedov!
In his post fight interview, Khabib Nurmagomedov gave a big smile as he said 'Give me Cheese cake or Bloodarse'.

Event: C334: Erdogan vs Queiroz
Date: Aug 18, 2024

#R1#
Nice uppercut lands for Bloodaxe. That snapped Nurmagomedov's head back.
Decent striking displayed by Nurmagomedov there.#CUT2#It looks like Gunnar Bloodaxe has been cut.
A shot to the liver by Nurmagomedov. Beautiful body shot.
Khabib Nurmagomedov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nurmagomedov lands a right hook to the body.
Bloodaxe has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Blacktalians MMA in the buildup to the fight.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut.
Nurmagomedov staying out of range there.
Nurmagomedov doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Bloodaxe misses with an uppercut
and Nurmagomedov counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov walks into a left hand.
Nurmagomedov looks to throw the jab but Bloodaxe is out of range.
A quick step to the side and Bloodaxe tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Bloodaxe takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nurmagomedov throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Bloodaxe counters with an outside leg kick.
Nurmagomedov missing with a left hand there. Bloodaxe was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Nurmagomedov displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Bloodaxe throws out the jab.
Nurmagomedov tries to move into range but Bloodaxe moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
A big right from Nurmagomedov misses.
Bloodaxe dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Nurmagomedov throws a body shot but no joy.
Bloodaxe looks to land a right hand but Nurmagomedov moved out of range.
Nurmagomedov throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Bloodaxe sees it coming and avoids it easily.#T1#
Nurmagomedov slips under a jab.
Nurmagomedov looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Nurmagomedov throws a right hand that misses
and Bloodaxe counters with a nice uppercut.
Bloodaxe has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Bloodaxe there as he acknowledges the shot.
Nurmagomedov missing with a left hand there. Bloodaxe was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Nurmagomedov throws an off balance right hand
and Bloodaxe counters with a nice uppercut.
Nice shot by Nurmagomedov.
Bloodaxe tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Bloodaxe ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Nurmagomedov looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Nurmagomedov fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Bloodaxe manages to avoid it.
Bloodaxe avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Bloodaxe slips under a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov looks to land a combination but Bloodaxe avoids it well.
Nurmagomedov uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Bloodaxe.
Bloodaxe tests Nurmagomedov's chin there with a solid looking shot.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Bloodaxe lands with a thumping leg kick. #T2#
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Bloodaxe moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov with a jab.
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping left.
Nurmagomedov lands with a nice body punch.
Nurmagomedov has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Bloodaxe moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
Bloodaxe blocks a jab.
Nurmagomedov displaying good standup as he scores with a three punch combination.
Nurmagomedov throws a right hand that misses
and Bloodaxe counters with a nice leg kick.
Nurmagomedov takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Bloodaxe lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Bloodaxe lands a nice hook to Nurmagomedov's body. Nurmagomedov takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes. #T3#
Bloodaxe scores with a jab.
Bloodaxe connects with a single shot there.
Bloodaxe throws a looping overhand right but Nurmagomedov ducks down to avoid it.
Bloodaxe scores with a crisp jab that stopped Nurmagomedov in his tracks. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Bloodaxe was covering up waiting for the punch and Nurmagomedov finishes the takedown easily into guard.
Nurmagomedov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Bloodaxe is keeping the position for now.
Bloodaxe wants to control the position but Nurmagomedov says "no thanks buddy" and passes to half guard. #SUB#
Bloodaxe looking for submissions off his back.
Bloodaxe trying to get back to full guard but Nurmagomedov takes advantage of the position and moves to full mount!#T4#
Nurmagomedov working the ground and pound effectively.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Nurmagomedov can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Bloodaxe is looking to escape.
Bloodaxe tries to get back to half guard but can't.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Bloodaxe tries to hold on but Nurmagomedov pushes him away.
Bloodaxe regains half guard.
Bloodaxe wants to control but Nurmagomedov is keeping busy.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Gunnar Bloodaxe'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#
Nurmagomedov with a lazy takedown attempt
and Bloodaxe makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Nurmagomedov throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Nurmagomedov swings widly with a right hand
and Bloodaxe makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Bloodaxe throws a lazy right hand but Nurmagomedov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Nurmagomedov misses with a left hand
and Bloodaxe counters with a stiff right hand.
Nurmagomedov rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Bloodaxe counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Bloodaxe swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Nurmagomedov might want to mix his strikes up a bit more. He's just going for head shots at the moment and that can become a bit predictable.
A low kick lands for Bloodaxe.
A low kick lands for Bloodaxe.
Bloodaxe displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Nurmagomedov throws out the jab.
Bloodaxe uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Nurmagomedov.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bloodaxe staying out of range there.
Bloodaxe misses with a body shot
and Nurmagomedov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Nurmagomedov lands with an overhand left.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Bloodaxe takes a swing at Nurmagomedov's ribcage but misses.
Bloodaxe bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Nurmagomedov's head.
Nurmagomedov misses with a left hand
and Bloodaxe cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#T1#
Bloodaxe lands with a hook. Nurmagomedov tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Nurmagomedov misses with a few strikes there.
Nurmagomedov displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Bloodaxe throws out the jab.
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping left.
Nurmagomedov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Bloodaxe was well out of range. Poor timing from Nurmagomedov.
Bloodaxe uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
A quick step to the side and Bloodaxe tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Bloodaxe thows a left - swing and a miss!
Bloodaxe comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Nurmagomedov drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Nurmagomedov slips a straight right by Bloodaxe.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Nurmagomedov! But no joy.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook. Bloodaxe ducked under it nicely.
Nurmagomedov scores with a jab. Bloodaxe acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
A big right from Nurmagomedov misses.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the side of Bloodaxe's head but Bloodaxe sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Nurmagomedov looks to throw the jab but Bloodaxe is out of range.
Bloodaxe lands a head shot.#T2#
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Bloodaxe fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Nurmagomedov has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Nurmagomedov gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Bloodaxe digs a good body shot into Nurmagomedov's ribs.
Nurmagomedov takes one to the chin there.
Bloodaxe pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Bloodaxe throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Nurmagomedov stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Bloodaxe misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nurmagomedov.
A jab from Nurmagomedov misses.
Bloodaxe staying out of range there.
A punch lands to the side of Bloodaxe 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Nurmagomedov jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Nurmagomedov tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Bloodaxe swivels and escapes.
Gunnar Bloodaxe is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Bloodaxe works Nurmagomedov's body with a nice hook.
Bloodaxe misses with a shot to the body
and Nurmagomedov counters with a straight right hand.
Bloodaxe defending well as Nurmagomedov loads up on a big left hand.
Nurmagomedov jabs Bloodaxe to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Bloodaxe is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.#T3#
Nurmagomedov misses with a right hand
and Bloodaxe counters with a thumping low kick.
Nurmagomedov misses with a lunging right hand
and Nurmagomedov takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Bloodaxe lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Bloodaxe throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Bloodaxe buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
A punch combination from Nurmagomedov misses.
Good exchange - Bloodaxe coming out on top.
Bloodaxe lands a nice shot that snaps Nurmagomedov's head back.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut. Bloodaxe saw that one coming.
Bloodaxe throwing a counter right hand but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.
Bloodaxe lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Nurmagomedov doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Bloodaxe makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Gunnar Bloodaxe has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
A nice leg kick lands there from Bloodaxe.
A big left from Nurmagomedov misses.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nurmagomedov is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Bloodaxe.
Bloodaxe is looking to counter with a shot to the body.#T4#
Bloodaxe slips under a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov is really struggling to land any decent head shots against his taller opponent.
Nurmagomedov misses with a right hand
and Bloodaxe counters with an outside leg kick.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook. Bloodaxe ducked under it nicely.
Nurmagomedov misses with a lunging right hand
and Bloodaxe counters with a left to the body.
Bloodaxe cracks Nurmagomedov with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Bloodaxe cracks Nurmagomedov with a good jab.
Bloodaxe cracks Nurmagomedov with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Bloodaxe chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Nurmagomedov takes a jab right on the kisser.
Bloodaxe walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Bloodaxe connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Nurmagomedov moves forwards but Bloodaxe connects with a nice, crisp jab.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Nurmagomedov ducks right into an uppercut from Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov's leg has a nasty welt from taking a succession of leg kicks. That must be slowing him down.
Bloodaxe takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Bloodaxe connects with a leg kick. He turned his hip over nicely there.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Gunnar Bloodaxe dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Gunnar Bloodaxe'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#
Nurmagomedov with a lazy takedown attempt
and Bloodaxe counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Bloodaxe moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Bloodaxe was well out of range.
Bloodaxe getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Nurmagomedov misses with a right hand
enabling Bloodaxe to counter with a crisp jab.
Bloodaxe buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
A chopping leg kick lands by Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Bloodaxe with the inside leg kick.
A lazy left from Bloodaxe finds it's target.
Bloodaxe dips to his left and cracks Nurmagomedov with an uppercut!
Nurmagomedov missing with a left hand there. Bloodaxe was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
The fighters circling - Bloodaxe throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Nurmagomedov is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Bloodaxe.
A good leg kick by Bloodaxe.
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!
Nurmagomedov throws a lazy uppercut
and Bloodaxe counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#T1#
Nurmagomedov throws a jab but it's blocked by Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook to the body
and Bloodaxe counters with a good low kick that Nurmagomedov was not able to check.
Good shot there by Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Bloodaxe can pounce on him.
Bloodaxe slips a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Bloodaxe works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Bloodaxe takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Nurmagomedov shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Bloodaxe as he avoids it easily.
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Nurmagomedov slips a jab from Bloodaxe.
Nice uppercut lands for Nurmagomedov. That snapped Bloodaxe's head back.
Nurmagomedov walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Bloodaxe missing with a left hand there. Nurmagomedov was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Nurmagomedov looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Bloodaxe scores with a punch to the head.
Nurmagomedov misses with a right hand
and Bloodaxe counters with a right hand to the body.
Bloodaxe is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Nurmagomedov can do to turn this around?#T2#
Bloodaxe throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Bloodaxe moves out of range of the strikes.
Nurmagomedov needs to keep his hands up - Bloodaxe had a free shot at his head there.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the side of Bloodaxe's head but Bloodaxe sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut
and Bloodaxe connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Nurmagomedov throws a right hand that misses
enabling Bloodaxe to counter with a crisp jab.
Nurmagomedov takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Nurmagomedov swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Bloodaxe throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Bloodaxe looks to throw the jab but Nurmagomedov is out of range.
A jab from Bloodaxe misses.
Bloodaxe swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Bloodaxe smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
A nice leg kick from Bloodaxe, right into the meat of the thigh.
Bloodaxe lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.#T3#
Bloodaxe throws an off balance right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Nurmagomedov has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
A swing and a miss from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov ducks right into an uppercut from Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook but Bloodaxe blocks it.
Bloodaxe keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Gunnar Bloodaxe is winning the standup battle so far.
Nurmagomedov throws a big shot that misses.
Nurmagomedov takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
A chopping leg kick lands by Bloodaxe.
A jab lands there for Bloodaxe.
A big right from Nurmagomedov misses.
Bloodaxe swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Bloodaxe stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Bloodaxe lands a nice looking body shot.
Bloodaxe finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
A big left from Nurmagomedov misses. #T4#
Bloodaxe 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!
Nurmagomedov lands a nice shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right.
A telegraphed right hand from Nurmagomedov misses the target.
Bloodaxe slips a straight right by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Bloodaxe avoids it really well and circles away.
Gunnar Bloodaxe has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut. Bloodaxe saw that one coming.
Nurmagomedov lands with a nice body punch.
Bloodaxe ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Bloodaxe uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Bloodaxe throws a looping overhand right but Nurmagomedov ducks down to avoid it.
Bloodaxe with a body punch. A glancing blow.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Nurmagomedov throws out a loose jab but Bloodaxe uses good head movement to avoid it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Gunnar Bloodaxe clearly takes that round.
The cut man is working on Gunnar Bloodaxe's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R4#
A shot to the liver by Bloodaxe. Beautiful body shot.
Bloodaxe connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Nurmagomedov throws a lazy uppercut
and Bloodaxe counters with an outside leg kick.
Bloodaxe takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Bloodaxe connects with a looping right hand.
Nurmagomedov tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Bloodaxe swivels and escapes.
Nurmagomedov throws the left hand but Bloodaxe avoids the punch easily.
Bloodaxe lands the left hand.
Nurmagomedov fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A nice leg kick lands there from Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Bloodaxe counters with a straight right hand.
Gunnar Bloodaxe has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov is absolutely dripping with sweat - he looks exhausted.
Bloodaxe connects with the punch.#T1#
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight left.
A quick step to the side and Bloodaxe tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Bloodaxe scores with a jab. Nurmagomedov acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Bloodaxe keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Bloodaxe digs a good body shot into Nurmagomedov's ribs.
Nurmagomedov takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
A chopping leg kick lands by Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
That kick from Bloodaxe tenderised Nurmagomedov's leg. Nurmagomedov is trying to keep his angry face on.
Nurmagomedov throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Bloodaxe keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the side of Bloodaxe's head but Bloodaxe sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Bloodaxe bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Nurmagomedov's head backwards.
Nurmagomedov takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Nurmagomedov's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Bloodaxe connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Nurmagomedov scrambles back to his feet.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nurmagomedov misses the body punch
and Bloodaxe counters with a good low kick that Nurmagomedov was not able to check. #T2#
Bloodaxe sizes up Nurmagomedov with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Bloodaxe with a nice calf kick.
Nurmagomedov lands with a nice body punch.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nurmagomedov digs a good body shot into Bloodaxe's ribs.
Nurmagomedov cracks a nice hook into Bloodaxe's ribs.
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping left.
A little feinted left hand from Bloodaxe on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Bloodaxe with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Nurmagomedov drops his hands momentarily and Bloodaxe takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Nurmagomedov misses with a double jab. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Bloodaxe's guard.
Nurmagomedov with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Bloodaxe looking to control. #SUB#
Bloodaxe looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Nurmagomedov passes into half guard. #T3#
Nurmagomedov works his way into full mount!
Bloodaxe tries to hold on but Nurmagomedov postures up.
Bloodaxe can't escape the position. #T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nurmagomedov can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Bloodaxe is looking to escape.
Nurmagomedov lands a nice shot to the head.
Nurmagomedov scoring with strikes but Bloodaxe is staying in there.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close fourth round but I would say that Gunnar Bloodaxe will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Gunnar Bloodaxe's cut.
That's time! Bloodaxe's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R5#
Nurmagomedov takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Nurmagomedov will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Bloodaxe scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Nurmagomedov closes the distance but Bloodaxe moves to the side
and Bloodaxe counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Nurmagomedov tries to score a power double leg takedown but Bloodaxe sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Nurmagomedov somewhat.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Bloodaxe was well out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov tries to close the distance and clinch up but Bloodaxe swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Nurmagomedov tries to grapple but his opponent circles
and Bloodaxe counters with a low kick, right behind Nurmagomedov 's knee.
Bloodaxe displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Nurmagomedov throws out the jab. #T1#
Bloodaxe darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Nurmagomedov misses with a left hand
and Nurmagomedov takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Bloodaxe scores with a shot to the body.
Bloodaxe throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Nurmagomedov sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Nurmagomedov lands a jab to Bloodaxe's midsection.
Nurmagomedov looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Bloodaxe with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Nurmagomedov swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Bloodaxe uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Nurmagomedov.
Nice uppercut there from Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov takes a swing at Bloodaxe's ribcage but misses.
Bloodaxe dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Nurmagomedov. That did some damage!
Nurmagomedov throws the left hand but Bloodaxe avoids the punch easily.
Bloodaxe moves out of range of the strikes.
Bloodaxe scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Bloodaxe lunges at Nurmagomedov with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Nurmagomedov's hand.
Bloodaxe avoids the body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Bloodaxe throws a lazy right hand but Nurmagomedov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Bloodaxe lands a jab to the nose.
Bloodaxe connects with a good right hand that stumbles Nurmagomedov. Nurmagomedov circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Nurmagomedov throws a big shot that misses.
Nurmagomedov is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov jabbing away but nothing is landing.
It looked like Bloodaxe wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Bloodaxe uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Nurmagomedov throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Bloodaxe counters with a left to the body.
Bloodaxe takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Bloodaxe cracks Nurmagomedov with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Nurmagomedov works the jab nicely.
Bloodaxe is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Nurmagomedov. #T3#
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the side of Bloodaxe's head but Bloodaxe sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Bloodaxe manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Bloodaxe showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov dives in and grabs Bloodaxe's left leg, looking for a takedown. Bloodaxe pushes down on Nurmagomedov's head and hops out.
Gunnar Bloodaxe has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov is wobbling all over the place through exhaustion. Will he make it to the final bell?
A jab from Bloodaxe finds it's way through Nurmagomedov's defenses.
Bloodaxe clobbers Nurmagomedov with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Bloodaxe uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Nurmagomedov.
Bloodaxe connects with a body shot.
A jab from Bloodaxe finds it's way through Nurmagomedov's defenses.
Nurmagomedov gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Bloodaxe.
Nurmagomedov pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Bloodaxe feints and then cracks Nurmagomedov's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Nurmagomedov down. #T4#
Nurmagomedov walks into a jab.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nurmagomedov shoots in for a takedown but Bloodaxe shows good takedown defense.
A slapping leg kick lands for Bloodaxe.
Bloodaxe lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Bloodaxe bobs and weaves and then throws a good body kick.
Nurmagomedov swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Nurmagomedov lands with an overhand left.
Nurmagomedov digs a good body shot into Bloodaxe's ribs.
Nurmagomedov throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Bloodaxe.
Donk. Nurmagomedov catches Bloodaxe right on the button with a cross.
Nurmagomedov throws a lazy uppercut
and Bloodaxe counters with a stiff right hand.
Bloodaxe takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
A good leg kick by Bloodaxe.
Bloodaxe ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.

And that's the end of the fight!
Gunnar Bloodaxe showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Bloodaxe 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 Downing scores the fight 49:46
Judge Robert Twigg scores the fight 49:46
Judge Frank Dennis scores the fight 49:46

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Gunnar Bloodaxe!
Gunnar Bloodaxe retains his lightweight title!
An out of breath Gunnar Bloodaxe thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

Event: C328: Dorado vs Monkey
Date: Jul 28, 2024

#R1#
Billabong throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Nurmagomedov on the side of the head.
Billabong scores with a jab to the head.
Billabong looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Nurmagomedov loads up on a big right hand but Billabong slips the punch.
Billabong on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Billabong comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Nurmagomedov throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.#TD2#
Nurmagomedov drives through with a takedown into Billabong's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
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.
Billabong controls Nurmagomedov momentarily but Nurmagomedov frees himself.
Nurmagomedov throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Nurmagomedov throwing strikes from guard but Billabong blocks nicely.
Nurmagomedov pushing down on Billabong's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Billabong wants to control but Nurmagomedov is keeping busy and won't allow it. #T1#
Billabong has hold of Nurmagomedov's hands but Nurmagomedov slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control the action in half guard but Billabong is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Billabong wants to control but Nurmagomedov is keeping busy.
Nurmagomedov lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Nurmagomedov scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Billabong is looking for a sweep. Nurmagomedov is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Billabong has hold of Nurmagomedov's hands but Nurmagomedov slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Nurmagomedov missing with the ground and pound from half guard. #T2##SUB2#
Nurmagomedov is working for a kimura here but Billabong manages to reverse the position and he's now in Nurmagomedov's guard.
Billabong content to stall in guard here.
Nurmagomedov not looking particularly offensive just at the moment. #SUB2#
Billabong avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Nurmagomedov is controlling Billabong's posture.#T3#
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Billabong accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand. #SUB2#
Nurmagomedov looking to try and escape his hips here, looking for a submission. It looks like he's going for a triangle but Billabong is defending well. Nurmagomedov quickly switches to an armbar and extends the arm! Billabong has no choice but to tap, to a very quick submission! Wow, that was lightning fast! Nurmagomedov celebrates on the cage, with the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:33 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
An intense looking Khabib Nurmagomedov took to the microphone post fight and gave a little speech: 'Give me Jang or whatever this fuckwit is called.'.

Event: C321: Marley vs Savisto
Date: Jul 07, 2024

#R1#
Arroyo throws a head kick that misses
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Nurmagomedov fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Arroyo manages to avoid it.
A low kick from Arroyo misses #CL#
and Nurmagomedov counters by clinching up.
Arroyo lands a body punch in the clinch.
Arroyo tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Nurmagomedov just stands there and leans against the cage.
Nurmagomedov tries to work over Arroyo's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Nurmagomedov misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Arroyo prevents a body shot from Nurmagomedov.
I was talking to Nurmagomedov's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.#TD#
Nurmagomedov ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Nurmagomedov no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control the position but Arroyo postures up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Arroyo sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Nurmagomedov's guard. #SUB2#
Arroyo is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg. #SUB2#
Arroyo wants to work for an arm triangle but Nurmagomedov is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T1##SUB#
Nurmagomedov looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB2#
Arroyo seems to be working for a kimura but Nurmagomedov defends the submission attempt.#SUB2#
Arroyo is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Nurmagomedov is just riding it out for now. Arroyo eventually gives up the hold.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.#SUB2#
Arroyo is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Nurmagomedov doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Arroyo. #SUB2#
Arroyo is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Nurmagomedov has managed to free his arm - good work. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#T3#
Nurmagomedov trying to control from the bottom. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov looking for submissions off his back.
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Arroyo is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Nurmagomedov is pressing down on Arroyo's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.#SUB2#
Arroyo postures up as if he's going to throw some strikes but drops back for an ankle! Nurmagomedov is in big trouble! He looks ready to tap! But no, he's escaped and dives on top of Arroyo, into his guard. #REVR##T4##SUB2#
Arroyo is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Nurmagomedov stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Arroyo swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Nurmagomedov is working hard here to advance position.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Arroyo keeping moving, preventing Nurmagomedov from controlling successfully.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that round.
That's time! Nurmagomedov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Arroyo throws a good cross that connects.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook but Arroyo avoids it easily.
Arroyo tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Arroyo.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook. Arroyo ducked under it nicely.
Nurmagomedov misses with an uppercut
and Arroyo counters with a nice leg kick.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab but it's blocked by Arroyo.
Arroyo fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Nurmagomedov looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Arroyo with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Nurmagomedov to score with a decent uppercut.#CUT#It looks like Javier Arroyo has been cut.
Nurmagomedov moves forwards but Arroyo connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Nurmagomedov throws the left hand but Arroyo avoids the punch easily.
Nurmagomedov shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Nurmagomedov throws a big shot that misses.
Arroyo misses the shot to the body.
It looked like Nurmagomedov was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Arroyo.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Arroyo tries to move into range but Nurmagomedov moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.#CL2#
Arroyo gets a clinch. #T1#
Arroyo tries to pull guard but Nurmagomedov forces him back to his feet, against the cage.#TD2#
Arroyo has managed to pull guard. Let's see whether he can work an aggressive guard. It will also be interesting to see what tactics Nurmagomedov uses from the top position.
Arroyo looking to hit a scissor sweep but Nurmagomedov is one step ahead there.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Arroyo holds on and takes a little breather.
Arroyo working a defensive guard but Nurmagomedov manages to pass into side control anyway.
Arroyo is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Nurmagomedov taking a breather here. #T2#
Arroyo manages to get back to half guard.
Nurmagomedov trying to control the action but Arroyo is working from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Arroyo is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.
Nurmagomedov slips a nice elbow through Arroyo's hands, connecting with Arroyo's forehead.#SUB2#
Arroyo looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Arroyo is pressing down on Nurmagomedov's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.#T3#
Arroyo working a defensive guard here. #SUB2#
Arroyo is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Arroyo has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Nurmagomedov has passed into side control.
Arroyo is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Nurmagomedov trying to control the position but Arroyo is working away. #T4#
Nurmagomedov working away.
Nurmagomedov landing strikes.
Arroyo is looking to regain half guard here but Nurmagomedov keeps moving and retains side control.
Arroyo wants to control but Nurmagomedov postures up.
Nurmagomedov lands a few punches from side control.
Nurmagomedov grinds an elbow into Arroyo's temple.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nurmagomedov lands some shots froms side control.
Arroyo is looking for a sweep.
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 Khabib Nurmagomedov will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Javier Arroyo's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
Nurmagomedov clobbers Arroyo with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Javier Arroyo has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Nurmagomedov throws an overhand right that lands on Arroyo's shoulder, as Arroyo tries to avoid the shot.
Nice defenses there by Arroyo.
Nurmagomedov backing away here, and Arroyo unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Arroyo scores with a leg kick.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook. Arroyo ducked under it nicely.
Nice takedown defense from Arroyo. No joy for Nurmagomedov on that attempt.
Nurmagomedov walks into a left hand.
Nurmagomedov lands a right hook to the body.
Arroyo throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Arroyo takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Arroyo ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov lands a nice shot that snaps Arroyo's head back.
Arroyo lands with a thumping leg kick.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Arroyo misses with a left hand
and Nurmagomedov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#ROC#Arroyo is rocked!
Nurmagomedov chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Arroyo can pounce on him.
Arroyo misses with an uppercut. #T1#
Arroyo throws a leg kick which misses Nurmagomedov's front leg but catches the back leg as Nurmagomedov tries to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Nurmagomedov wants to clinch but Arroyo slips to the side
and Arroyo counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Nurmagomedov feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Arroyos jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Arroyo is still on wobbly legs! Can Nurmagomedov finish him?
Decent striking displayed by Nurmagomedov there.
Arroyo gets tagged by a hook that puts him to sleep! Nurmagomedov points and yells something to his unconcious foe before strutting off. Arroyo wakes up just in time to hear Nurmagomedov thank his coaches in the post fight interview.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:29 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
In his post fight interview, Khabib Nurmagomedov gave a big smile as he said 'Give me Jang or whatever this fuckwit is called.'.

Event: C315: Jiang vs Bloodaxe
Date: Jun 16, 2024

#R1#
Mcgee tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Mcgee.
Nurmagomedov tries to counter with a takedown but Mcgee is quick to defend against it.
Mcgee staying out of range there.
Mcgee connects with a jab.
Mcgee throws a big shot that misses.
Nurmagomedov swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Mcgee slips under a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Horrible takedown attempt by Nurmagomedov or perhaps it was just good defense by Mcgee, which made it look bad.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Mcgee fails to land with a series of punches.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
A looping hook to the body misses from Mcgee. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.#T1#
Nurmagomedov takes one to the chin there.
We've been hearing reports that Nurmagomedov has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Mcgee scores with a jab to the head. #CUT2#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Mcgee pulls out of a head kick attempt.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov jabs Mcgee right on the nose. Mcgee blinks but takes it well.#CUT#It looks like Rockwell Mcgee has been cut.
Nurmagomedov throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Mcgee slaps away a takedown attempt from Nurmagomedov, before circling back to the center of the mat.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Khabib Nurmagomedov. That's going to take a lot out of him.#T2#
Nurmagomedov misses with a takedown attempt
and Mcgee counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Mcgee fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.#TD#
Nurmagomedov closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Nurmagomedov lands in his opponent's guard.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Mcgee is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Nurmagomedov working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Mcgee's head.
Nurmagomedov 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.#ES2#
Mcgee has scooted to the edge of the canvas and used the cage to get back to his feet. Nurmagomedov has stuck on his opponent and is forcing him back against the cage.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body punch. #T3#
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.#BC2#
Mcgee pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Mcgee misses with a few strikes there.
Mcgee is a painfully thin specimen of a man. You do wonder whether a good body kick would snap him clean in two.
Nurmagomedov with a lazy takedown attempt
and Mcgee counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Nurmagomedov tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Mcgee swivels and escapes.
Mcgee avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Mcgee goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Nurmagomedov wants to clinch but Mcgee slips to the side
and Mcgee counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Nice sprawl there from Mcgee as Nurmagomedov shoots in.
Mcgee let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.#T4##CL#
Nurmagomedov closes the distance and clinches.
Nurmagomedov lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Nurmagomedov tries to work over Mcgee's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target. #BC2#
Mcgee pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Mcgee works Nurmagomedov's body with a nice hook.
Nurmagomedov walks into a left hand.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch there but Mcgee circles away.
Mcgee doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Mcgee lands a glancing blow to the side of Nurmagomedov's head.
Nurmagomedov stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Mcgee.
Nurmagomedov throws an overhand right that lands on Mcgee's shoulder, as Mcgee tries to avoid the shot.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Rockwell Mcgee dominated that round.
Both fighters have cut men working on them during the interval.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Mcgee misses with a two punch combination. #CL#
Nurmagomedov gets a clinch.
Mcgee has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#BC2#
Mcgee pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Nurmagomedov shoots in and drives through. Mcgee sprawls well.
Mcgee misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nurmagomedov.
It looked like Nurmagomedov wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
That kick from Mcgee tenderised Nurmagomedov's leg. Nurmagomedov is trying to keep his angry face on.
Nurmagomedov scores with a shot to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Mcgee fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.
An attempted straight right counter from Nurmagomedov misses the target.
Nurmagomedov is really struggling to find his range with his punches. Mcgee's reach advantage is clearly causing him problems.#T1#
Nurmagomedov throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Mcgee.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Mcgee! But no joy.
Mcgee will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Nurmagomedov shoots in for a takedown but Mcgee shows good takedown defense.
Mcgee shapes to counter with a head kick.
Mcgee throws a left and a right that both miss
and Nurmagomedov counters with a straight right hand.
Nurmagomedov takes a punch to the jaw and another one to the bread basket.
Mcgee cracks Nurmagomedov with an open hand slap.
Rockwell Mcgee is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Mcgee jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Nurmagomedov swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.#T2#
Mcgee moves out of range as Nurmagomedov strikes.
Mcgee lands a jab.
Mcgee uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Mcgee follows through with a counter body kick but it doesn't land.
Mcgee throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Mcgee jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Mcgee lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Mcgee lands a nice leg kick that just misses Nurmagomedov's sensitive parts.
Nurmagomedov takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.#T3#
Mcgee just misses with a punch to the body.
Mcgee scores with a body shot.
Mcgee throws a sloppy body shot
and Nurmagomedov counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Mcgee looks to land a combination but Nurmagomedov avoids it well.
Mcgee takes a swing at Nurmagomedov's ribcage but misses.
Mcgee jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Nurmagomedov is looking to counter punch.
A swing and a miss from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.#T4#
Nurmagomedov is looking to clinch but Mcgee is avoiding it.
Mcgee scores with a jab. Nurmagomedov acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Nurmagomedov takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Nice takedown defense from Mcgee. No joy for Nurmagomedov on that attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Khabib Nurmagomedov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Mcgee stalks Nurmagomedov and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Nurmagomedov's face. Nurmagomedov staggers backwards, shaken.
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!
Mcgee misses with a looping left.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch but Mcgee moves away
and Mcgee counters with a stiff right hand.
The fight stays on the outside here - Nurmagomedov looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
A nice side step and Mcgee releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Rockwell Mcgee showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
Both fighters have cut men working on them during the interval.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. So, we enter the final round. Let's see if either fighter can bring us a finish, or whether we're going to the judges scorecards.#R3#
Nurmagomedov connects with the punch.
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
A quick step to the side and Nurmagomedov tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nurmagomedov lands a head shot.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Mcgee.
Rockwell Mcgee seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Mcgee displaying good standup as he scores with a three punch combination.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov tries for a takedown but Mcgee circles away easily
and Mcgee counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#T1#
Nurmagomedov moves into range and connects with a jab.
Nurmagomedov avoids the head kick by Mcgee.
Nurmagomedov was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Mcgee misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nurmagomedov.
Mcgee throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Nurmagomedov shoots in but doesn't get the takedown #KD2#
and Mcgee counters with a crisp one two that drops Nurmagomedov! Mcgee thinks about following him to the mat for a moment but instead steps back and waves Nurmagomedov to his feet! Nurmagomedov is in big trouble!#ROC2#Nurmagomedov is rocked!
Nurmagomedov wants to clinch up but Mcgee keeps it at a distance.
Mcgee throws a head kick that half lands.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Mcgee has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.#T2#
Sloppy strikes from Mcgee. Those never looked like landing.
Mcgee moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Nurmagomedov looks to score with a jab to the body but Mcgee is just out of range.
Mcgee will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Mcgee will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Rockwell Mcgee is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.#T3#
Nurmagomedov tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Nurmagomedov ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Mcgee moves away.
Mcgee dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Nurmagomedov. That did some damage!
Mcgee tries to work over Nurmagomedov's front leg with a kick but Nurmagomedov checks it.
Nurmagomedov throws an overhand right that lands on Mcgee's shoulder, as Mcgee tries to avoid the shot.
Nurmagomedov swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
It seemed like Mcgee was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Mcgee looks to land a right hand but Nurmagomedov moved out of range.
Nurmagomedov is looking to counter with a shot to the body.#T4#
Nurmagomedov misses the jab.#CL#
Mcgee tries to keep at a distance but Nurmagomedov has taken the fight into the clinch.
Mcgee blocking some punches.
Nurmagomedov struggles to land a body shot inside as Mcgee controls his hands.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body punch.
Nurmagomedov misses with a punch to the body.
Nurmagomedov doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Mcgee tries to break free but Nurmagomedov pushes him back against the cage.#BC2#
Mcgee breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Mcgee fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Nurmagomedov swings for the body but Mcgee moves out of range.
Mcgee counters with a body kick.

And that's the end of the fight!
Rockwell Mcgee comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Mcgee 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 Taro Takaoka scores the fight 27:30
Judge Tatsuya Matsuyama scores the fight 27:30
Judge Shigeki Fujiwara scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Rockwell Mcgee!
Rockwell Mcgee really struggled to get his t-shirt on before his hand was raised. Making sure that Kersikov's Vitamin Clinic (160) logo gets some air time is pretty tricky when you're all sweaty.

Event: C312: Jiang vs Maurits II
Date: Jun 02, 2024

#R1#
Nurmagomedov digs a good body shot into Kasamsun's ribs.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right.
Nurmagomedov takes one on the button.
Kasamsun misses with a lunging right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.#CUT#It looks like Irong Kasamsun has been cut.
Kasamsun feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Nurmagomedovs jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Kasamsun cracks Nurmagomedov with a good jab.
Kasamsun moves in looking to clinch but Nurmagomedov pushes him off.
Kasamsun has his takedown stuffed
and Nurmagomedov counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Kasamsun misses with a left hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice uppercut.
Kasamsun jabs at Nurmagomedov's body.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Kasamsun misses with a looping left.
A swing and a miss from Kasamsun.
A little feinted left hand from Nurmagomedov on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Nurmagomedov looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Kasamsun throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Nurmagomedov makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.#T1##CL2#
Nurmagomedov gets tackled into the cage by Kasamsun. Kasamsun maintains the clinch.
I was talking to Nurmagomedov's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked. #TD2#
Kasamsun is trying to trip Nurmagomedov. He has hold of a leg but Nurmagomedov is hopping around, keeping his balance for the moment. Kasamsun persists though and gets the takedown into guard.
Nurmagomedov trying to keep a closed guard but Kasamsun is proving a slippery customer.
Nurmagomedov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Kasamsun is one step ahead there.
Kasamsun is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Kasamsun trying to control but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom.
Kasamsun stands up over Nurmagomedov, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Nurmagomedov trying to keep a closed guard but Kasamsun is proving a slippery customer.
Kasamsun throws a big right hand that misses.
Nurmagomedov looking for a sweep. Not yet Nurmagomedov, not yet. #T2##SUB#
Nurmagomedov working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Kasamsun doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Oh but Nurmagomedov is tightening it up a little... Kasamsun has to be careful here... He's got his foot tucked under now, this looks tight! Kasamsun reacted too slowly and this one could be over in a matter of seconds! YES! Kasamsun taps out! Nice BJJ there by Nurmagomedov!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Choke). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
A relieved looking Khabib Nurmagomedov 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: C307: Queiroz vs Martin
Date: May 19, 2024

#R1#
Dudayev scores with a leg kick.
Nurmagomedov comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Dudayev goes for a high kick. It partially lands.#CUT#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Dudayev throws a sloppy head kick and Nurmagomedov moves out of range easily.
Nurmagomedov takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Dudayev throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
A countering left hand to the body from Nurmagomedov misses.
Akhmed Dudayev seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Dudayev misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov looks like he wants to counter punch here.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Nurmagomedov 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.
Dudayev misses with a hook. Nurmagomedov ducked under it nicely.
Nurmagomedov looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Nurmagomedov slips a jab from Dudayev.
Dudayev feints a jab promting Nurmagomedov to slip. Dudayev then demonstrates his capabilities by jabbing again. Nurmagomedov slips again and ducks right into an uppercut.
Dudayev blocks a jab.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
A left and a right from Dudayev both land. Nice combination.
Nurmagomedov fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Nurmagomedov blocks a head kick by Dudayev. #T1#
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Dudayev, as that shot connected.
Dudayev lands with a hook. Nurmagomedov tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Dudayev jabs Nurmagomedov to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Dudayev tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Dudayev.
Dudayev sets himself, and Nurmagomedov steps forward looking for the clinch! Dudayev avoids it this time.
Nurmagomedov uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Dudayev.
Dudayev jabs Nurmagomedov to the body, keeping him at a distance.
That kick from Dudayev tenderised Nurmagomedov's leg. Nurmagomedov is trying to keep his angry face on.
Dudayev slips a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Dudayev misses with a shot to the body
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
An inside leg kick from Dudayev misses.
Nurmagomedov now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Nurmagomedov checks the leg kick.
Nurmagomedov slips a jab and a cross from Dudayev. #T2#
Dudayev throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
We've been told by Dudayev's head coaches at Chiefs Fighting Inc. that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Nurmagomedov stuns Dudayev with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Akhmed Dudayev is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Dudayev throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a straight right hand.
Dudayev finds nothing but air with that leg kick attempt.
Dudayev takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Nurmagomedov takes one on the button.
Dudayev throws a combination that misses #TD2#
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice double leg into side control. Dudayev won't be happy with that.
Dudayev can't do much from the bottom here.
Dudayev is trying to get back to half guard.
Nurmagomedov fails to land a wild elbow strike. #T3#
Dudayev managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Dudayev is keeping him busy.
Nurmagomedov scoring with punches and elbows.
Nurmagomedov moving around in side mount but really he's just happy to control for now.
Dudayev is trying to escape and get back to his feet.
Nurmagomedov tries to advance to mount but can't.
Nurmagomedov tries to advance position but instead Dudayev slips a leg back in to half guard. #T4#
Nurmagomedov is pressing down on Dudayev's thigh, looking to free his foot. Dudayev is holding on for now.
Dudayev blocking the ground and pound attempt from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Nurmagomedov wants to lay and pray for a moment but Dudayev keeps working.
Nurmagomedov missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Nurmagomedov sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Dudayev defending well though.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Akhmed Dudayev dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Nurmagomedov takes a head kick and keeps coming.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Dudayev, as that shot connected.
Nurmagomedov moves forwards but Dudayev connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Dudayev misses with a head kick.
Dudayev connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Nurmagomedov momentarily.
The crowd cheers as Dudayev lands an impressive looking overhand right. Nurmagomedov doesn't seem phased though.
Dudayev misses with a leg kick
and Nurmagomedov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#ROC2#Dudayev is rocked!
Dudayev misses with the body kick#TD2#
and Nurmagomedov shoots in for a double leg counter - driving through into a slam and Dudayev is out! The slam has knocked him out cold! Devastating for Dudayev but Nurmagomedov is celebrating as the crowd goes wild!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:40 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Slam). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Khabib Nurmagomedov decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: C302: Cheese vs Albatross III
Date: May 05, 2024

#R1#
Assndrop connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Nurmagomedov's hands.
Maurits Assndrop seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Assndrop fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Nurmagomedov has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Nurmagomedov looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the side of Assndrop's head but Assndrop sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.#TD2#
Nurmagomedov looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Nurmagomedov must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Assndrop utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov is fighting to break Assndrop's control of his arms but Assndrop is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
Nurmagomedov trying to control the position from guard on top but Assndrop is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Nurmagomedov got a little sloppy there for a moment and Assndrop has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Nurmagomedov has managed to get both his arms back between Assndrop's legs - danger averted.
Nurmagomedov tries to free his leg and advance position but Assndrop is retaining full guard. #T1#
Nurmagomedov slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nurmagomedov trying to control but Assndrop is working from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov throwing strikes but missing.
Nurmagomedov cracks Assndrop with a solid left hand.
Nurmagomedov working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Assndrop is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Nurmagomedov content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Assndrop is trying to keep Nurmagomedov in close.
Nurmagomedov throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Nurmagomedov stands up over Assndrop, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Nurmagomedov throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Assndrop works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov postures up in Assndrop's guard and throws a big left but Assndrop blocks it.
Nurmagomedov wants to pass the guard but Assndrop is keeping the position.
Nurmagomedov trying to control the position from guard on top but Assndrop is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T3#
Nurmagomedov scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Assndrop keeping moving, preventing Nurmagomedov from controlling successfully.
Nurmagomedov is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Nurmagomedov content to stall in guard here. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov stands over his opponent and dives in with a flying punch! Assndrop throws up his legs and catches Nurmagomedov in a triangle! Oh this looks tight! Nurmagomedov tries to escape but he's forced to tap! Wow, fantastic work there by Assndrop! That came out of nowhere!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Choke). Maurits Assndrop!
After winning the bout, Maurits Assndrop thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

Event: C295: Queiroz vs Nakagawa II
Date: Apr 14, 2024

#R1#
Turcotte takes one on the chin but seems OK. #CUT#It looks like Jacques Turcotte has been cut.
Turcotte missing with a left hand there. Nurmagomedov was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
We've been hearing reports that Nurmagomedov has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Turcotte throws an overhand right that lands on Nurmagomedov's shoulder, as Nurmagomedov tries to avoid the shot.
It looked like Nurmagomedov wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Turcotte lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.
Turcotte swings away with a body shot that misses
letting Nurmagomedov counter with a right hand.
Turcotte scores with a nice right hand.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight left.
Nurmagomedov defending well as Turcotte loads up on a big left hand.
Turcotte lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Nurmagomedov slips a straight right by Turcotte.
Nurmagomedov swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Nurmagomedov takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Nurmagomedov wants to clinch.#T1#
Nurmagomedov throws a poor cross that misses
and Turcotte cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Turcotte thows a left - swing and a miss!
A big right from Turcotte misses.
A little feinted left hand from Nurmagomedov on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Turcotte thuds his right hand into Nurmagomedov's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Turcotte throws an overhand right that lands on Nurmagomedov's shoulder, as Nurmagomedov tries to avoid the shot.
Turcotte throws out a loose jab but Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid it.
Turcotte tests Nurmagomedov's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Jacques Turcotte is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Turcotte uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Nurmagomedov has time to react.
Turcotte is landing a lot of head punches in this opening round! Nurmagomedov had better start moving his head a bit unless he wants his face to turn into mush.#CL2#
Turcotte has Nurmagomedov up against the cage in a clinch. #T2#
Turcotte lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Nurmagomedov working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Turcotte wants to strike at distance but he can't break free of the clinch.
Turcotte lands a body punch.
Turcotte's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Turcotte scores with a shot to the side of Nurmagomedov's head.
Turcotte misses with a punch to the body.
Nurmagomedov struggles to land a body shot inside as Turcotte controls his hands.
Nurmagomedov drops down looking for an ankle pick but Turcotte pulls his leg out and moves away.
Good exchange - Turcotte coming out on top.
Turcotte throws a sloppy body shot
and Nurmagomedov counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Turcotte has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Turcotte throws a poor cross that misses
and Nurmagomedov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Nurmagomedov moves away from the strike by Turcotte. #T3#
Turcotte ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
Turcotte lands a nice looking body shot.
Turcotte throws a poor cross that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a right hand to the body.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook
and Nurmagomedov takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
A lazy left from Turcotte finds it's target.
Turcotte cracks Nurmagomedov with a right hand to the side of the head.
Turcotte thuds his right hand into Nurmagomedov's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Nurmagomedov ducks under a wild hook from Turcotte.
A slow jab from Turcotte misses its intended target.
Nurmagomedov is looking to counter punch.
Turcotte misses with a right hand
enabling Nurmagomedov to counter with a crisp jab.
A big left from Turcotte misses. #T4#
Turcotte throws a two punch combo that lands nicely.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nurmagomedov staying out of range there.
Nurmagomedov swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
A slow jab from Turcotte misses its intended target.
Nurmagomedov closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right.
Turcotte rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Nurmagomedov moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Turcotte was well out of range.
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Turcotte bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Turcotte throws a hook to the side of Nurmagomedov's head but Nurmagomedov sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
A lazy left from Turcotte finds it's target.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jacques Turcotte dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Jacques Turcotte's cut.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Nurmagomedov takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
We are yet to see a takedown attempt from Turcotte in the fight. On paper you would think he is the more dominant ground fighter so let's see if these unusual tactics pay off.
Nurmagomedov slips a jab and a cross from Turcotte.
Turcotte misses with a straight right.
Nurmagomedov was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
A swing and a miss from Turcotte.
Nurmagomedov waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Turcotte.
Turcotte has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Turcotte throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Nurmagomedov takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Turcotte takes a swing at Nurmagomedov's ribcage but misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Turcotte connects with a nice looking jab.
Nurmagomedov takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Nurmagomedov avoids the body shot from Turcotte.
Turcotte lands a jab-cross combination. #T1#
Nurmagomedov is on the wrong end of a nice combination from Turcotte.
Nurmagomedov steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Turcotte.
Nurmagomedov swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Turcotte connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Turcotte throws a right hand that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Turcotte throws a looping overhand right but Nurmagomedov ducks down to avoid it.
Turcotte misses with a combination
and Nurmagomedov counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov just misses with a punch to the body.
Turcotte lands a right hook to the body.
Turcotte throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd. #T2#
Turcotte throws a poor cross that misses #TD#
so Nurmagomedov counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nurmagomedov wants to control from the top but Turcotte keeps moving.
Nurmagomedov stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Turcotte swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Nurmagomedov throws a big right hand that misses.
Nurmagomedov stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Turcotte swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Nurmagomedov with a flurry of punches that miss.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Turcotte is pulling down on Nurmagomedov's head to control his posture.
We must be close to a standup if these guys don't pick up the pace.#T3#
Nurmagomedov wants to control from the top but Turcotte keeps moving. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
The crowd cheers as Turcotte lands an impressive looking overhand right. Nurmagomedov doesn't seem phased though.
A jab from Turcotte misses.
Jacques Turcotte seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Turcotte misses with a hook
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Nurmagomedov steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Turcotte.
Nurmagomedov wants to clinch
and Turcotte counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Turcotte is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Nurmagomedov.
Turcotte defending well as Nurmagomedov loads up on a big left hand. #T4#
Nice uppercut there from Turcotte.
Turcotte jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Nurmagomedov throws a big shot that misses.
Nurmagomedov fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Turcotte thows a left - swing and a miss!
Turcotte misses with a body punch
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Nurmagomedov keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Turcotte.
Jab, jab by Turcotte - just one landing.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Turcotte cracks Nurmagomedov with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Nurmagomedov looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Nurmagomedov avoids a punch combination nicely.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jacques Turcotte showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Jacques Turcotte'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. This is the final round!#R3#
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Turcotte scores with a jab to the body.
Turcotte scores with a nice head shot.
Turcotte misses with an uppercut
and Nurmagomedov counters with a stiff right hand.
Turcotte throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Nurmagomedov drops down looking for a counter takedown but Turcotte sprawls and moves away.
Nurmagomedov tests Turcotte's chin there with a solid looking shot.#CUT#That has opened up Jacques Turcotte's cut even more.
Nurmagomedov is looking to clinch.
Turcotte now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Turcotte throws a right and a left that both miss.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#CL2#
Turcotte clinches up against the cage.
Nurmagomedov is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Turcotte gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.#BC2#
Turcotte's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Nurmagomedov is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Turcotte bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.#T1#
Turcotte throws a right hand that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Turcotte connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Turcotte scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Turcotte throws an off balance right hand
letting Nurmagomedov counter with a right hand. #ROC#Turcotte is rocked!
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Nice shot lands for Turcotte.
Nurmagomedov swings for the body but Turcotte moves out of range.
Turcotte connects with a jab.
Turcotte throws out a loose jab but Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Nurmagomedov steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Turcotte.
Turcotte uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Nurmagomedov has time to react.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nurmagomedov takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Turcotte throws a body punch but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Turcotte connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Nurmagomedov misses with a takedown attempt
and Turcotte counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Turcotte sizes up Nurmagomedov with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Nice takedown defense from Turcotte. No joy for Nurmagomedov on that attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Khabib Nurmagomedov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Nurmagomedov throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Turcotte's waist but Turcotte gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Nurmagomedov off to one side.
A punch combination from Turcotte misses.
Nurmagomedov missing with a left hand there. Turcotte was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one. #T3#
Turcotte throws a body punch but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Turcotte.
A big right from Turcotte misses.
An attempted straight right counter from Nurmagomedov misses the target.
Nice uppercut there from Turcotte.
Turcotte looks to land a combination. Nurmagomedov sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Turcotte scores with a decent looking hook.
Turcotte swings widly with a right hand
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Nurmagomedov misses with a takedown attempt - Turcotte sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Turcotte swings widly with a right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.#T4#
Turcotte bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Nurmagomedov's head.
Turcotte misses with a straight right.
Nurmagomedov swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
and Nurmagomedov counters with a massive uppercut that badly hurts Turcotte! He's just covering up as Nurmagomedov starts to tee off till the referee steps in and stops the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:22 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Our winner, Khabib Nurmagomedov, 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: C291: Lehto vs Marley
Date: Mar 31, 2024

#R1##CL2#
Pavlek clinches up with Nurmagomedov and pushes him back against the cage.
A head punch on the inside from Pavlek fails to land.
Pavlek prevents a body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Pavlek's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Pavlek tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Nurmagomedov avoids it.
Pavlek misses with a short punch on the inside.
Pavlek lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Pavlek tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Nurmagomedov.
Pavlek looks to throw an elbow but misses. #TD#
Nurmagomedov manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back.
Pavlek is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Pavlek tries to free his leg and advance position but Nurmagomedov is retaining full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T1#
Nurmagomedov keeping moving, preventing Pavlek from controlling successfully.
Pavlek won't allow Nurmagomedov to sweep him here.
Nurmagomedov controls Pavlek momentarily but Pavlek frees himself.
Pavlek wants to control from the top but Nurmagomedov keeps moving. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.#CL2#
Pavlek rushes Nurmagomedov and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
A short left from Nurmagomedov.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Nurmagomedov.
Pavlek throws a punch but it's blocked by Nurmagomedov.
I was talking to Nurmagomedov's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.#T2#
Nurmagomedov blocking some punches.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov swings wildly with an uppercut but Pavlek uses good head movement to avoid it.
Pavlek blocks an uppercut.
Pavlek misses with an elbow strike.
Nurmagomedov lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Pavlek backwards.
Nurmagomedov throws a punch but it's blocked by Pavlek.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Pavlek.
Pavlek tries to throw a body punch but Nurmagomedov avoids it by throwing Pavlek back against the cage.
Pavlek lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Nurmagomedov blocks a body shot from Pavlek. #TD#
Nurmagomedov jumps guard and drags Pavlek to the mat. He's obviously going to be looking for submissions off his back.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nurmagomedov trying to control the position.
Pavlek showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Pavlek really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Nurmagomedov. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Nurmagomedov is pulling down on Pavlek's head to control his posture. #T3#
Pavlek postures up.
Nurmagomedov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Pavlek is one step ahead there. #SUB#
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Nurmagomedov is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Nurmagomedov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Pavlek is one step ahead there.
Nurmagomedov wants to improve his position but instead Pavlek has moved into half guard. #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.
Nurmagomedov trying to control from the bottom.
Pavlek prevents Nurmagomedov from improving his position.
Pavlek is figuring out what he wants to do next.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nurmagomedov trying to hold on to Pavlek's head to control him but Pavlek postures up.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.
Pavlek is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Jakov Pavlek will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Nurmagomedov uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Pavlek.
Pavlek lands with a straight right. Nurmagomedov didn't see that one coming.
Nurmagomedov lunges at Pavlek with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Pavlek's hand. #CL2#
Pavlek gets a clinch.
Pavlek scores with a nice hook to the head.
Nurmagomedov can't find room to land a body shot as Pavlek controls the action.
Nurmagomedov tries to work over Pavlek's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target. #TD#
Nurmagomedov is working on a single leg takedown against the cage. Pavlek can't fight it off and eventually Nurmagomedov manages to take the fight to the floor. Pavlek looks annoyed but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Pavlek is trying to control the position from the bottom. #T1#
Nurmagomedov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Pavlek is keeping the position for now.
Pavlek working a defensive guard here.
Pavlek avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Pavlek is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.
Nurmagomedov landing with the ground and pound.
Pavlek wants to sweep but no luck. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Pavlek holds on and takes a little breather.
Nurmagomedov tries to free his leg and advance position but Pavlek is retaining full guard.
Nurmagomedov being controlled here momentarily. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Pavlek misses with a right hand
and Nurmagomedov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab but it's blocked by Pavlek.
Nurmagomedov 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.
Pavlek swings widly with a right hand
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#T3#
Pavlek's jab looks to have found its range, popping Nurmagomedov under the eye.
Pavlek throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
An attempted straight right counter from Nurmagomedov misses the target.
Pavlek fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov lands with a shot to the body.
Pavlek lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Pavlek bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Nurmagomedov walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Jakov Pavlek seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.#TD#
Pavlek gets caught napping as Nurmagomedov dives in and scores a takedown. Pavlek manages to retain guard.#T4#
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Pavlek working a defensive guard here.
Nurmagomedov postures up in Pavlek's guard and throws a big left but Pavlek blocks it.
Nurmagomedov wants to control from the top but Pavlek keeps moving.
Nurmagomedov stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Pavlek swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Nurmagomedov throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Pavlek works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov is in close to Pavlek's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Khabib Nurmagomedov overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Pavlek looking to hit a scissor sweep but Nurmagomedov is one step ahead there.
Pavlek working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Nurmagomedov.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
Pavlek tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Pavlek.
Nurmagomedov misses the jab.#CL2#
Pavlek has Nurmagomedov up against the cage in a clinch.
Nurmagomedov blocks an uppercut.
Nice body punch from Pavlek - that landed with a thud.
Pavlek scores with a nice hook to the head.
Pavlek misses with a hook from the clinch.
Pavlek pushes Nurmagomedov back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
A short right from Pavlek.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov tries to throw a body punch but Pavlek avoids it by throwing Nurmagomedov back against the cage.
Pavlek tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Pavlek misses with a punch to the body.
Pavlek struggles to land a body shot inside as Nurmagomedov controls his hands.
Nurmagomedov jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Pavlek walks away with a smile on his face. Nurmagomedov gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
A head kick misses from Pavlek. #T1##CL2#
Pavlek has managed to clinch.
Pavlek blocks a body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A right hook to the body lands for Pavlek. #TD#
Nurmagomedov jumps into guard, dragging Pavlek to the mat.
Nurmagomedov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Pavlek is one step ahead there.
Nurmagomedov working a defensive guard here.
Pavlek trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Pavlek controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Nurmagomedov 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.#T2#
Pavlek postures up.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.
Pavlek stopping the sweep attempt from Nurmagomedov.#REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.#CL2#
Pavlek clinches up with Nurmagomedov and pushes him back against the cage.
Nurmagomedov has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Pavlek avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Pavlek lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Nurmagomedov blocking some punches. #TD#
Nurmagomedov manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Pavlek has picked Nurmagomedov up and slammed him! Nurmagomedov can't keep hold of the triangle and Pavlek manages to pass to side control!
Nurmagomedov is trying to improve his position.#T3#
Pavlek wants to lay and pray for a moment but Nurmagomedov keeps working.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control Pavlek's posture but Pavlek avoids it.
Pavlek tries to move into full mount but can't pass Nurmagomedov's legs.
Nurmagomedov tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Pavlek wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Pavlek trying to control the position but Nurmagomedov is working away.
Nurmagomedov prevents Pavlek from improving position. #T4#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Nurmagomedov tries to improve position but can't.
Pavlek advances nicely into full mount.
Nurmagomedov is looking to improve his position but Pavlek isn't that keen on the idea.
Pavlek controlling the position easily from mount.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nurmagomedov keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.

And that's the end of the fight!
Jakov Pavlek comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Pavlek 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 Ren Mimura scores the fight 28:29
Judge Taro Takaoka scores the fight 28:29
Judge Yasuomi Hirokawa scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Jakov Pavlek!
During a confident post fight interview, Jakov Pavlek thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

Event: CFC 633
Date: Jan 20, 2024

#R1#
John goes to the watering hole and comes back with a big thumbs up from the judges as he scores a three punch combo.#CUT2#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Nurmagomedov has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Nurmagomedov there as he acknowledges the shot.
John throws a body punch but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
John looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Nurmagomedov half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
John is looking to score with low kicks.
John throws a one two combo.
John throws a hook to the side of Nurmagomedov's head but Nurmagomedov sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Nurmagomedov gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
John 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!
Nurmagomedov fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
A big left from John misses.
A looping hook to the body misses from John. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Nurmagomedov throwing a counter right hand but John manages to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid the hook from John.
An attempted straight right counter from Nurmagomedov misses the target.
John throws a leg kick that is checked#TD#
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice double leg into half guard. #T1#
John is staying active underneath Nurmagomedov, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
John tries to push off, looking to stand up, but Nurmagomedov manages to move to mount!
BOOM! Nurmagomedov connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Nurmagomedov won't let John get back to his feet... He wants to keep the fight where it is for now.
Nurmagomedov dominating with strikes here.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
John is flailing around like a fish out of water, trying to land strikes.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
John in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
John is trying to get to the cage to help him get back to his feet.
John has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
John is desperately trying to get back to half guard.
John is trying to escape but when you're mounted that's not too easy. #T2#
Nurmagomedov sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.
Nurmagomedov trying to control but John is having none of it.
John really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Nurmagomedov wants to control the pace but John is squirming around nicely. #T3#
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Nurmagomedov is still in mount, landing shots to his trapped opponent. John can't stay in a position like this for much longer.
John tries to hold on but Nurmagomedov postures up.
John taking shots to the head.
Nurmagomedov has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of John's face. #ROC#John is rocked!
Nurmagomedov takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Nurmagomedov with a couple of short strikes.
John is still in real trouble! Can Nurmagomedov finish him?
Nurmagomedov putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Nurmagomedov trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Nurmagomedov connects with a bit shot that sees John covering up! More strikes from Nurmagomedov and the referee jumps in to stop the fight! Nurmagomedov is our winner by TKO!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Our winner, Khabib Nurmagomedov, 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: APEX 12
Date: Nov 26, 2023

#R1#
Mesquita digs a good hook to Nurmagomedov's body.
Richard Mesquita seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Mesquita misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Nurmagomedov feints the counter takedown.
Mesquita changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
Mesquita looks to land a left hand but Nurmagomedov moved out of range nicely.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Nurmagomedov looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple. #T1#
Mesquita shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Nurmagomedov as he jumps to the side.
Mesquita throws an off balance right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice uppercut.
Mesquita ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Mesquita dives in for a single leg takedown but Nurmagomedov sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Nurmagomedov with the counter takedown but Mesquita avoids it easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Richard Mesquita. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Nurmagomedov lands a left hand that snaps the head of Mesquita backwards.
Nurmagomedov cracks Mesquita with a nice body shot.
Mesquita drops down looking for an ankle pick but Nurmagomedov pulls his leg out and moves away.
Nurmagomedov gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.#T2#
A jab from Mesquita finds it's way through Nurmagomedov's defenses.
Nurmagomedov displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Mesquita throws out the jab.
And Nurmagomedov tries to counter it with a takedown but Mesquita pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Mesquita keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Mesquita misses the jab.#T3#
Mesquita lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Nurmagomedov at a distance.
Nice jab there from Mesquita.
No luck for Mesquita with that takedown attempt.
A swing and a miss from Mesquita.
It seemed like Nurmagomedov was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Nurmagomedov needs to keep his hands up - Mesquita had a free shot at his head there.#T4#
Mesquita slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Mesquita swings for the body but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
A little jabbing left from Nurmagomedov on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Mesquita just misses with a punch to the body.
Mesquita looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
A swing and a miss from Mesquita.
Nurmagomedov tries to move into range but Mesquita moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#TD#
Mesquita scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
This has been an exciting period of action!#SUB#
Mesquita is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Richard Mesquita 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#
Mesquita throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Mesquita throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Nurmagomedov sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Mesquita, as that shot connected. #TD#
Mesquita gets the takedown into side control.
Nurmagomedov is looking for a sweep.
Nurmagomedov felt the need to train up his defensive grappling in the buildup to the fight. Presumably he was expecting to be in a difficult position like this, so let's see if he can get out of it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Mesquita is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Nurmagomedov knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Mesquita is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Nurmagomedov can do to turn this around?
Nurmagomedov tries to get back to half guard but can't.#T1#
Mesquita lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Nurmagomedov down.
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Mesquita postures up.
Nurmagomedov regains half guard.
Mesquita trying to control the action but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom.
Mesquita is controlling the pace.
Mesquita lands with a punch from half guard.
Mesquita is taking a breather. Nurmagomedov 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.#T2#
Mesquita thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas. #SUB#
Mesquita 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.
Mesquita is trying to control. Nurmagomedov wants to improve his position but can't escape this time. #SUB#
Mesquita is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Mesquita not landing any meaningful shots this time. #T3#
Mesquita wants to free his trapped foot but Nurmagomedov is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Mesquita passes to full mount!
Mesquita controlling the position easily from mount.
Mesquita can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Nurmagomedov is looking to escape.
Mesquita looking to control and managing it successfully. #SUB#
Mesquita is going oldschool here, as he tries to force Nurmagomedov to tap using a forearm choke. This isn't 1993 though, so Nurmagomedov shrugs it off. #T4#
Mesquita lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Mesquita working the ground and pound effectively.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Mesquita working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet. #SUB#
Nurmagomedov defends a decent attempt at a guillotine from Mesquita.
Nurmagomedov really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Mesquita. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.#SUB#
Mesquita is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Nurmagomedov can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Nurmagomedov is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Richard Mesquita dominated that second round.
That's time! Mesquita's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R3##TD#
Mesquita darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Nurmagomedov is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #SUB#
Mesquita is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Nurmagomedov is just riding it out for now. Mesquita eventually gives up the hold.
Still in half guard, Mesquita seems content to control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov manages to get to full guard.
Nurmagomedov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Mesquita is one step ahead there. #T1#
Mesquita is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Mesquita trying to control but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Mesquita wants to control from the top but Nurmagomedov keeps moving.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T2#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Mesquita stopping the sweep attempt from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov trying to control the position here.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
Mesquita trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Mesquita scores with a body shot. #TD#
Mesquita manages to get an easy takedown there - catching Nurmagomedov on his heels. He'll look to pass Nurmagomedov's guard now, I'm sure.#T3#
Nurmagomedov wants to sweep here but Mesquita controlling him for the moment.
Mesquita engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Nurmagomedov 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.
Nurmagomedov keeping moving, preventing Mesquita from controlling successfully.
Mesquita won't allow Nurmagomedov to sweep him here.
Nurmagomedov is still trying to improve position.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.#T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Nurmagomedov being controlled here, momentarily. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Mesquita shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Nurmagomedov pinned against the cage. Nurmagomedov gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Mesquita fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Nurmagomedov on the side of the head.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Richard Mesquita clearly takes that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R4#
Mesquita misses with a hook. Nurmagomedov ducked under it nicely.
Nurmagomedov changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Mesquita lands a nice hook to Nurmagomedov's body. Nurmagomedov takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Nurmagomedov avoids the body shot from Mesquita.
Mesquita fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Nurmagomedov! But no joy.#TD#
Mesquita looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Nurmagomedov!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov is positioning himself to get back to half guard. #T1##SUB#
Mesquita is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Nurmagomedov has escaped the position, nice work there.
Mesquita in side control, throwing shots but Nurmagomedov defends.
Mesquita trying to control the action but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov is trying to work for a sweep but Mesquita has mounted him!
Mesquita tries to control but Nurmagomedov wriggling away. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Nurmagomedov keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Nurmagomedov is squirming around, avoiding Mesquita's attempts to control the action.
Mesquita prevents Nurmagomedov from getting the reversal.
Mesquita controlling the pace for now.
Mesquita can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Nurmagomedov is looking to escape.
Nurmagomedov is desperately trying to get back to half guard. #T3#
Mesquita has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Nurmagomedov's face. #SUB#
Mesquita looking for a guillotine from mount but Nurmagomedov is having none of it.
Mesquita looking to control and managing it successfully. #SUB#
Mesquita is working on an americana here. Ooh, that looks pretty nasty! Nope, Nurmagomedov has managed to escape the submission attempt.
Nurmagomedov bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!#SUB#
Mesquita working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Nurmagomedov doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Nurmagomedov manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #T4#
Nurmagomedov is working Mesquita over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Nurmagomedov must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Mesquita is on top in guard. #REVR#
Mesquita wants to pass the guard but Nurmagomedov is keeping the position.
Nurmagomedov keeping moving, preventing Mesquita from controlling successfully.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Nurmagomedov seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Richard Mesquita had his way with Khabib Nurmagomedov in that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!#R5#
Mesquita fails with the takedown.
Nurmagomedov with the counter takedown but Mesquita avoids it easily.
Mesquita misses with a takedown attempt
and Nurmagomedov counters with a stiff right hand.
Mesquita gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Nurmagomedov counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Richard Mesquita. That's going to take a lot out of him.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Mesquita throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt. #T1#
Mesquita shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Nurmagomedov as he avoids it easily.
Nurmagomedov steps in looking to clinch after the strikes miss from Mesquita.
A looping hook to the body misses from Mesquita. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Mesquita is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Nurmagomedov takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Nurmagomedov stuffs the takedown.
A nice side step and Nurmagomedov releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Mesquita throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Nurmagomedov sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Nurmagomedov feints the counter takedown.
Richard Mesquita is winning the standup battle so far.
Mesquita lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.#T2#
Mesquita connects with a looping right hand.
Mesquita lands a body shot.
Mesquita fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.#TD#
Mesquita closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Nurmagomedov quickly recovers to half guard.
Mesquita looking to pass the half guard. Not this time. #SUB#
Mesquita is trying to work for a kimura but Nurmagomedov is defending well.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Mesquita seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Nurmagomedov does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #T3#
Mesquita not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Nurmagomedov won't allow Mesquita to pass to mount.
Nurmagomedov moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Nurmagomedov wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Mesquita missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Mesquita looking to pass the guard.
Nurmagomedov can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Mesquita controls the pace.#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.
Nurmagomedov working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Mesquita.
Richard Mesquita overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Mesquita stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Nurmagomedov swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Mesquita works over Nurmagomedov with some ground and pound from guard.
Mesquita trying to control the position from guard on top but Nurmagomedov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Mesquita cracks Nurmagomedov with a solid left hand.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Richard Mesquita is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Mesquita trying to control but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Mesquita slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Nurmagomedov is looking to reverse the position.

And that's the end of the fight!
Richard Mesquita showed his dominance in that final round.
Well I reckon that's a shut out for Mesquita, 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 Paulsen Ambrosius scores the fight 50:44
Judge Wagner Zegers scores the fight 50:44
Judge Saam Ante scores the fight 50:44

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Richard Mesquita!
Richard Mesquita retains his lightweight title!

Event: APEX 8
Date: Oct 29, 2023

#R1#
Ryhein throws a big shot that misses.
Ryhein connects with a good right hand that stumbles Nurmagomedov. Nurmagomedov circles away out of range and recomposes himself.#CUT#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Nurmagomedov misses with a right hand
and Ryhein makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Ryhein misses with a looping right.
Nice defenses there by Nurmagomedov.
A low kick from Ryhein misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a stiff right hand.
Ryhein lands a nice leg kick that just misses Nurmagomedov's sensitive parts.
Nurmagomedov throws a right hand that misses
and Ryhein counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Nurmagomedov scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Ryhein doesn't seem bothered though.
Ryhein looks to score with a jab to the body but Nurmagomedov is just out of range.
Ryhein moves into range and lands a nice leg kick. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Ryhein was covering up waiting for the punch and Nurmagomedov finishes the takedown easily into guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nurmagomedov throws a big right hand that misses. #T1#
Nurmagomedov is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Ryhein trying to control the position. #SUB#
Ryhein has his foot on Nurmagomedov's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Nurmagomedov works his way back into a safe position though.
Nurmagomedov with a flurry of punches that miss.
Ryhein working a defensive guard here.
Nurmagomedov lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Nurmagomedov postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Nurmagomedov cracks Ryhein with a solid left hand.#SUB#
Ryhein is active off his back here, looking for submissions. #SUB#
Ryhein looking for a guillotine here but Nurmagomedov defends easily. #T2#
Nurmagomedov trying to control the position from guard on top but Ryhein is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB#
Ryhein looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Nurmagomedov keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Ryhein's head.
Nurmagomedov works over Ryhein with some ground and pound from guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Nurmagomedov preventing the sweep.
Nurmagomedov passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Nurmagomedov in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Ryhein taking a bit of punishment here - Nurmagomedov scoring with strikes.
Ryhein can't do much from the bottom here. #T3#
Nurmagomedov passes to full mount! That's big trouble for Ryhein!
Nurmagomedov avoids the attempt from Ryhein to control.
Nurmagomedov tries to control but Ryhein wriggling away.
Nurmagomedov controlling from the full mount.
Nurmagomedov scoring with strikes but Ryhein is staying in there.
Nurmagomedov prevents Ryhein from getting the reversal.
Nurmagomedov working Ryhein over with strikes here.
Nurmagomedov pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.#T4#
Nurmagomedov punishing his opponent with strikes.
Nurmagomedov is in the full mount, landing strikes. #ROC2#Ryhein is rocked!
Nurmagomedov lands a big elbow - Ryhein is in trouble! More strikes from the mount and Ryhein is forced to tap out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:27 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Our winner, Khabib Nurmagomedov, 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: Bellicose XL
Date: Apr 02, 2023

#R1#
Nurmagomedov moves away from the strike by Matthew.
A looping hook to the body misses from Matthew. Nurmagomedov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Nurmagomedov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Matthew was well out of range. Poor timing from Nurmagomedov.
Matthew keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab. #CUT#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Matthew scores with a jab to the body.
Nurmagomedov jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Nurmagomedov misses with a lunging right hand
and Matthew counters with a nice uppercut.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Matthew takes one to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Matthew counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head. #CL2#
Nurmagomedov has closed the distance and engaged Matthew in a clinch. #T1#
A right hook to the body lands for Nurmagomedov.
Matthew misses with some punches.
Matthew throws a head punch that misses.
A nice right hand lands inside from Nurmagomedov.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Nurmagomedov.
Matthew misses with some punches.
Matthew lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Nurmagomedov lands a left hand. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov is trying to trip Matthew. He has hold of a leg but Matthew is hopping around, keeping his balance for the moment. Nurmagomedov persists though and gets the takedown into guard.
Nurmagomedov throws a strike but Matthew rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVR#
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nurmagomedov looking for a sweep. Not yet Nurmagomedov, not yet.
Matthew content to stall in guard here.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Nurmagomedov 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.#T2#
Nurmagomedov bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Matthew's guard. #REVB#
Matthew avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Nurmagomedov accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Matthew keeping moving, preventing Nurmagomedov from controlling successfully.
Matthew is adopting a defensive guard.
Nurmagomedov throwing strikes but missing. #T3#
Matthew is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Nurmagomedov trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Nurmagomedov has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Nurmagomedov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Matthew is keeping the position for now.
Matthew keeping moving, preventing Nurmagomedov from controlling successfully. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Matthew throws a poor cross that misses
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Nurmagomedov is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Matthew.
Nurmagomedov lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Matthew has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Nurmagomedov finds it's way round the side to connect with Matthew's head.
We've been told by Matthew's head coaches at DC Dragon Gym that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Nurmagomedov throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Matthew sees it coming and avoids it easily.
A counter left hand to the body from Matthew misses its target.
Nurmagomedov darts in trying to clinch
and Matthew counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Matthew scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Matthew swats away the attempt to clinch by Nurmagomedov.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Khabib Nurmagomedov will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Nurmagomedov swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Matthew throwing a counter right hand but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov throws the left hand but Matthew avoids the punch easily.
A little feinted left hand from Matthew on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Nurmagomedov shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Nurmagomedov ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Nurmagomedov throws a looping overhand right but Matthew ducks down to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov lands a nice looking body shot. #CL2#
Nurmagomedov rushes Matthew and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#BC#
Matthew breaks from the clinch.
Nurmagomedov lands a right hook to the body. #CL2#
Matthew tries to keep at a distance but Nurmagomedov has taken the fight into the clinch.
Nurmagomedov tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Matthew's elbow.
Matthew is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.#T1#
Matthew misses with the head strike.
Matthew lands a shoulder strike.
Nurmagomedov blocks a punch to the side of the head.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Matthew misses with a body punch.
Nurmagomedov scores with a hook to the body.#BC#
Matthew breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Matthew looks to score with a jab to the body but Nurmagomedov is just out of range.
Nurmagomedov misses the jab.
It looked like Matthew wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov blocks a jab.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body punch
and Matthew cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Nurmagomedov lands a nice shot to the body. #T2#
Matthew misses with an uppercut. Nurmagomedov saw that one coming.
Matthew looks to throw the jab but Nurmagomedov is out of range.
Matthew ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Nurmagomedov moves away.
Nurmagomedov dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nurmagomedov throws a poor cross that misses
and Matthew counters with a two punch combo.
Nurmagomedov shoots in looking for a takedown. Matthew tries to sprawl out of it but Nurmagomedov keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Matthew manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
A quick step to the side and Matthew tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Matthew connects with a nice looking jab. #T3#
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight left.
Nurmagomedov throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Matthew is looking to counter punch.
Patrick Matthew is winning the standup battle so far.
Nurmagomedov loads up on a big right hand but Matthew slips the punch.
Nurmagomedov blocks a jab.
A big right from Nurmagomedov misses.
Nurmagomedov misses with a shot to the body
and Matthew makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Jab from Nurmagomedov.#T4#
Nurmagomedov lands three nice shots there - that looked like it hurt!
Matthew on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Matthew ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
Matthew throws a lazy right hand but Nurmagomedov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Nurmagomedov feints the counter takedown.
Matthew throws an off balance right hand #CL2#
and Nurmagomedov moves into the clinch.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Matthew doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Nurmagomedov misses with some punches.
Matthew lands a body shot in the clinch.
Still in the clinch, Matthew scores with a nice short uppercut.
Nurmagomedov blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Matthew lands with a right to the head.
Nurmagomedov blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov lands a nice shot to the body.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Nurmagomedov.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Khabib Nurmagomedov will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov'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. This is the final round!#R3#
A slow jab from Nurmagomedov misses its intended target.
Matthew throwing a counter right hand but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov misses with a left hand
and Matthew counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Matthew just misses with a punch to the body.
Nurmagomedov throws a looping overhand right but Matthew ducks down to avoid it.
Matthew is looking to counter punch.
A slow jab from Nurmagomedov misses its intended target.
Nurmagomedov fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Matthew appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body shot
enabling Matthew to counter with a crisp jab. #CUT#That has opened up Khabib Nurmagomedov's cut even more.
Matthew slips a jab from Nurmagomedov.#T1#
Nurmagomedov looks to land a right hand but Matthew moved out of range.
Nurmagomedov misses with a left hand
and Matthew counters with a lovely straight right hand!#CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
Matthew tries to work over Nurmagomedov's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target. #BC#
Matthew breaks from the clinch.
Matthew takes a swing at Nurmagomedov's ribcage but misses.
Matthew tries to clinch up.
Nice straight punches there by Nurmagomedov. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Nurmagomedov.
Matthew thuds a left hand into Nurmagomedov's body.
Matthew looks to throw the jab but Nurmagomedov is out of range.
Patrick Matthew has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Matthew misses with a looping right.
Matthew loads up on a big right hand but Nurmagomedov slips the punch.
Nurmagomedov looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Matthew swings for the body but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Matthew cracks Nurmagomedov with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Matthew misses with a straight left.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
A counter left hand to the body from Matthew misses its target.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nurmagomedov throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Matthew sees it coming and avoids it easily.
It looked like Matthew wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Matthew swings widly with a right hand
letting Nurmagomedov counter with a right hand.
Nurmagomedov jabs Matthew right on the nose. Matthew blinks but takes it well.#T3#
Nurmagomedov shoots in and drives through. Matthew sprawls well.
Matthew throws a body punch but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov takes a swing at Matthew's ribcage but misses.
Matthew throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Nurmagomedov tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Matthew defends well and Nurmagomedov ends up having to push Matthew into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Patrick Matthew has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Matthew swings for the body but Nurmagomedov moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Nurmagomedov misses with a right hand
and Matthew counters with a lovely straight right hand!#T4#
Nurmagomedov staying out of range there.
Matthew moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
Matthew was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Nurmagomedov connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Khabib Nurmagomedov is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Nurmagomedov uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Matthew.
Matthew misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nurmagomedov.
Matthew throws a right hand that misses
and Matthew takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Nurmagomedov gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch
and Matthew counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Nurmagomedov thinking.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Matthew takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.

And that's the end of the fight!
Patrick Matthew showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Nurmagomedov 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 Steve Montenegro scores the fight 30:27
Judge Russell Pearce scores the fight 28:29
Judge Anthony Taglia scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by split decision... Khabib Nurmagomedov!
After winning the bout, Khabib Nurmagomedov thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

Event: Bellicose XXXIV
Date: Mar 12, 2023

#R1#
Nurmagomedov throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Furriel tries to close the distance and clinch up but Nurmagomedov swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Nurmagomedov keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Furriel fails to land with a series of punches.
Nurmagomedov scores with a nice head shot.
Furriel throws an off balance right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Nurmagomedov circles away from the clinch attempt
and Nurmagomedov counters with a straight right hand.#ROC#Furriel is rocked!
Nurmagomedov throws a hook but Furriel avoids it easily.
Furriel tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov misses with a wild body shot.
Furriel looks up at the clock. Bad move! Nurmagomedov lands a right hand from hell, dropping Furriel. Nurmagomedov pounces and finishes the fight with a flurry of punches and elbows.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:53 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
An out of breath Khabib Nurmagomedov thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

Event: Bellicose XXIII
Date: Feb 04, 2023

#R1#
Kamir moves out of range of the strikes.
Kamir lands with a thumping leg kick.
A slapping leg kick lands for Kamir.
Nurmagomedov throws a right hand that misses
enabling Kamir to counter with a crisp jab. #CUT2#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Nurmagomedov dips to his left and cracks Kamir with an uppercut!
Kamir with a nice calf kick.
Kamir throws a shot to the body.
Kamir 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.
Kamir throws a series of strikes that have Nurmagomedov backpedaling.
Kamir takes a shot right to the bread basket.
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!
Kamir lands a nice looking body shot.
Nurmagomedov loads up on a big right hand but Kamir slips the punch.
It seemed like Kamir was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Some bone on bone action there as Nurmagomedov checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one.
Kamir misses with an uppercut #CL#
and Nurmagomedov moves into the clinch.
A right hand to the body from Kamir.
Kamir softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.#T1#
Nurmagomedov tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Nurmagomedov misses with the head strike.
Kamir tries a knee to the head but he's missed.
Nurmagomedov goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Nurmagomedov misses with the head strike.
Kamir scores with an uppercut up the middle.
A right hand to the body from Nurmagomedov. #BC2#
Kamir manages to break the clinch.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook. Kamir ducked under it nicely. #CL#
Nurmagomedov pushes Kamir up against the cage in a clinch.
Kamir pushes Nurmagomedov back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov lands a right hand that snaps the head of Kamir backwards.
Kamir gets through Nurmagomedov's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Kamir lands a left hand that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Nurmagomedov tries to throw a body punch but Kamir avoids it by throwing Nurmagomedov back against the cage. #BC2#
Kamir breaks the clinch.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nurmagomedov lands with a right hand.
Shalak Kamir seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Kamir throws a combination that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice uppercut. #T2#
Nurmagomedov throws an overhand right that lands on Kamir's shoulder, as Kamir tries to avoid the shot.
Kamir throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Kamir throws the left hand but Nurmagomedov avoids the punch easily.
Nurmagomedov throws out a loose jab but Kamir uses good head movement to avoid it.
Kamir throws out a loose jab but Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid it.
Kamir throws a hook but Nurmagomedov avoids it easily.
Shalak Kamir is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Kamir throws a hook but Nurmagomedov blocks it.
A slow jab from Nurmagomedov misses its intended target.
Nurmagomedov ducks under a wild hook from Kamir.
Nurmagomedov slips a jab from Kamir.
Nurmagomedov is looking to counter punch.
Kamir cracks Nurmagomedov with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Kamir thuds his right hand into Nurmagomedov's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
Kamir misses with a lunging right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.#T3#
Nurmagomedov uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Kamir.
A nice inside leg kick there by Kamir. That's going to slow Nurmagomedov down.
Kamir throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nurmagomedov listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.#CL#
Nurmagomedov takes the fight into the clinch.
I was talking to Nurmagomedov's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Nurmagomedov working aggressively here.
Nurmagomedov swings away with an uppercut that misses. #BC2#
Kamir's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Nurmagomedov doesn't manage to clinch there - Kamir circles away. #CL#
Nurmagomedov moves into the clinch.
Kamir misses with a short punch on the inside.
Kamir tries to land a knee to the head but Nurmagomedov blocks with his arms.
Nurmagomedov lands with a right to the head.
Nurmagomedov blocks an uppercut.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Kamir.
Nice body punch from Kamir. #T4#
Kamir prevents a body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Kamir tries to work over Nurmagomedov's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Kamir swings away with an uppercut that misses.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Kamir.
Kamir misses with a body punch.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook to the ribs.
Kamir misses with a punch on the inside.
Kamir lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Kamir swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Kamir misses with a hook from the clinch.
Nurmagomedov tries to work over Kamir's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Kamir softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Kamir misses with the head strike.
Nurmagomedov lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Nurmagomedov has a couple of punches blocked by Kamir.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov struggles to land a body shot inside as Kamir controls his hands. #BC2#
Kamir escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Kamir throws a head kick that misses
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Shalak Kamir will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Nurmagomedov misses with a wild body shot.
Nurmagomedov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Nurmagomedov lands a really nice looking cross but Kamir seems unphased.
Kamir misses with a looping left.
Nurmagomedov is looking to clinch but Kamir is avoiding it.
Kamir throws a right hand that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a stiff right hand. #ROC#Kamir is rocked!
Nurmagomedov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Nurmagomedov swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Kamir throws a one two combo.
Kamir avoids the body shot from Nurmagomedov.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kamir pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Nurmagomedov throws an overhand right that lands on Kamir's shoulder, as Kamir tries to avoid the shot.
Nurmagomedov drops his hands momentarily and Kamir takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Good leg kick by Kamir. #T1#
Kamir avoids the body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Kamir swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Nurmagomedov.
Kamir lands a leg kick that knocks Nurmagomedov off balance momentarily.
Nurmagomedov's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Kamir connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Nurmagomedov scrambles back to his feet.
Nurmagomedov connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Kamir's hands.
Kamir rushes in with a sloppy looking punch #CL#
and Nurmagomedov counters by moving into the clinch. Good anticipation by Nurmagomedov.
Kamir swings wildly with an uppercut but Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid it.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov has a couple of punches blocked by Kamir.
Nurmagomedov struggles to land a body shot inside as Kamir controls his hands.
Nurmagomedov tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Kamir's elbow.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body punch.
Kamir prevents a body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov tries a body shot but Kamir blocks it.
Nurmagomedov misses with a shot to the kidneys. #T2#
Kamir can't find room to land a body shot as Nurmagomedov controls the action. #BC2#
Kamir breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Kamir bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Kamir dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#CL#
Nurmagomedov drives through and clinches with Kamir against the cage.
Kamir misses with a short punch on the inside. #BC2#
Kamir breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Kamir fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Nurmagomedov on the side of the head.
Kamir scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Kamir takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Kamir misses with a straight left.
Kamir lets the fists fly and connects with a left straight followed by a right hook. #CL#
Nurmagomedov moves into the clinch.
Nurmagomedov has Kamir pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Kamir manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Nurmagomedov can't find room to land a body shot as Kamir controls the action. #T3#
Kamir looking to slow down the pace here.
Kamir lands a hook to the side of the head.
Kamir prevents a body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Kamir scores with a shot to the side of Nurmagomedov's head.
Nurmagomedov can't find room to land a body shot as Kamir controls the action.
Nurmagomedov stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Nurmagomedov tries to throw a body punch but Kamir avoids it by throwing Nurmagomedov back against the cage.
Nurmagomedov keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Kamir's efforts to push away.#BC2#
Kamir breaks the clinch.
Kamir throws a body kick despite being completely out of range#KD#
and Nurmagomedov counters with a leg kick then a big left hand that sends Kamir down! Nurmagomedov is looking to finish but Kamir is intelligently defending himself.
Kamir is still in real trouble! Can Nurmagomedov finish him?
Nurmagomedov with a flurry of punches that miss.
Nurmagomedov working some strikes from top position.
Nurmagomedov gets to his feet and stands over Kamir, holding his ankles. He dives in with a big left hand that connects! Kamir felt that one! Nurmagomedov unloads more punches and elbows and this one is over! The ref has dived in to save Kamir from any more punishment!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:59 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
An out of breath Khabib Nurmagomedov thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

Event: Bellicose XIII
Date: Dec 25, 2022

#R1#
Aengus misses with a right hand
letting Nurmagomedov counter with a right hand.
Aengus throws a shot from downtown. Nurmagomedov moves away and avoids it.
Aengus throws a jab but it's blocked by Nurmagomedov. #CL#
Aengus gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Nurmagomedov lands a body shot in the clinch.
Nurmagomedov stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Nurmagomedov lands a right hand.
Nurmagomedov is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Aengus gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Aengus looking to slow down the pace here.
Nurmagomedov can't get the takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov lands a nice uppercut.
Aengus wants to get back to striking at distance but Nurmagomedov won't allow it.
Nurmagomedov tries to work over Aengus's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Nurmagomedov misses with a body punch. #T1#
Nurmagomedov lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Aengus backwards. #TD2#
Nurmagomedov is working on a single leg takedown against the cage. Aengus can't fight it off and eventually Nurmagomedov manages to take the fight to the floor. Aengus looks annoyed but at least he's managed to land in guard.

Aengus has managed to wall walk up one of the corner posts to get back to his feet. Nurmagomedov is pushing him up against the cage, looking to control the position.
A nice right hand lands inside from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Aengus's elbow. #BC#
Aengus's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Aengus rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
enabling Nurmagomedov to counter with a crisp jab.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nurmagomedov moves out of range of the strikes.
Aengus walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Aengus throws a looping overhand right but Nurmagomedov ducks down to avoid it.
Aengus lunges at Nurmagomedov with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Nurmagomedov's hand.
Caelan Aengus seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#T2#
Nurmagomedov slips under a jab from Aengus.
Aengus misses with a left hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a straight right hand.
Aengus moves out of range of the strikes.#KD#
Aengus drops Nurmagomedov with a beautiful combination! Nurmagomedov stares up at his opponent, who ushers him back to his feet - Aengus is looking for the KO!#ROC#Nurmagomedov is rocked!#CUT#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Aengus misses with an uppercut
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice uppercut. #ROC2#Aengus is rocked!
Nurmagomedov is still on wobbly legs! Can Aengus finish him?
Aengus throws a lazy uppercut
and Nurmagomedov counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Aengus thinking.
Oh Aengus is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Nurmagomedov seems to have recovered his senses.
Aengus scores with a nice strike.
Aengus throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a huge left! Aengus is in big trouble! He's backing up but Nurmagomedov isn't giving him chance to recover. Under a barage of punches the ref has to step in to save Aengus from any more damage. A dominating finish by Nurmagomedov!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:32 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Khabib Nurmagomedov thanked the fans post fight for their support.

Event: Bellicose III
Date: Nov 16, 2022

#R1#
Matthew throws the left hand but Nurmagomedov avoids the punch easily.
It looked like Nurmagomedov wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Matthew cracks a nice hook into Nurmagomedov's ribs.
Nurmagomedov takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Nurmagomedov defending well as Matthew loads up on a big left hand.
Nurmagomedov tries to counter with a takedown but Matthew is quick to defend against it.
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Nurmagomedov takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Matthew tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Matthew.
Nurmagomedov was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Matthew moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
Matthew throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Nurmagomedov sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Matthew catches Nurmagomedov with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!#CUT2#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Nurmagomedov ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Matthew tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Matthew.
Matthew misses with a right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Matthew lands an overhand right.#T1#
Matthew scores with a sloppy right hand. Nurmagomedov should have avoided that one.
Horrible takedown attempt by Nurmagomedov or perhaps it was just good defense by Matthew, which made it look bad.
Matthew throws a hook to the side of Nurmagomedov's head but Nurmagomedov sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Matthew looks to land a right hand but Nurmagomedov moved out of range.
Matthew stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Matthew looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Matthew misses with an uppercut. Nurmagomedov saw that one coming.
Matthew dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Matthew throws a looping overhand right but Nurmagomedov ducks down to avoid it.
Matthew scores with a nice right hand.
Matthew misses with a hook.
Matthew waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Nurmagomedov.
Matthew misses with a right hand
letting Nurmagomedov counter with a right hand. #T2#
Matthew misses with a right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
A combination from Matthew does no damage.
Nurmagomedov is looking to counter the offense by Matthew and move into the clinch.
Matthew throws a looping overhand right but Nurmagomedov ducks down to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Nurmagomedov swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Matthew with a jab.#CL#
Nurmagomedov has Matthew up against the cage in a clinch.
Matthew misses with the head strike.
Nurmagomedov throws a punch but it's blocked by Matthew.
Matthew lands a hook that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Matthew lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a knee to the head but Matthew blocks with his arms.
Matthew throws a punch but it's blocked by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov lands a shoulder strike.
Matthew tries a body shot but Nurmagomedov blocks it.
Nurmagomedov throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but Matthew blocks it with crossed arms. #T3#
Nurmagomedov scores with an uppercut up the middle.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Matthew.
Matthew tries a body shot but Nurmagomedov blocks it.
Matthew lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Nurmagomedov.
Matthew tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Nurmagomedov misses with a knee to the head.
Matthew lands a hook that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Nurmagomedov has a couple of punches blocked by Matthew.
Nurmagomedov throws a punch but it's blocked by Matthew. #BC2#
Matthew's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Matthew throws a lazy uppercut #TD#
and Nurmagomedov counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Matthew is refusing to be controlled, as Nurmagomedov sits in half guard.
Nurmagomedov is looking to stall here but Matthew recovers full guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Nurmagomedov controls the pace of the fight for a moment.#T4#
Matthew is controlling Nurmagomedov's posture.
Nurmagomedov wants to pass the guard but Matthew is keeping the position.
Nurmagomedov showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Matthew controlling Nurmagomedov's posture.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Matthew can do anything to dispel that myth.
Nurmagomedov cracks Matthew with a solid left hand.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Patrick Matthew dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov's cut.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Matthew misses with a left hand
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Matthew fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid it.
Matthew looks to throw the jab but Nurmagomedov is out of range.
Matthew connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Matthew connects with a right hand. Nurmagomedov shakes it off.
Nice body punch from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Matthew.#CL#
Nurmagomedov gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Matthew can't find room to land a body shot as Nurmagomedov controls the action.
Matthew blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses.
Nurmagomedov misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Matthew can't find room to land a body shot as Nurmagomedov controls the action.
Nurmagomedov lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Matthew backwards.
Nurmagomedov takes a shot to the head.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Matthew blocks an elbow strike from Nurmagomedov.
Matthew goes for a body shot but it's blocked. #T1#
Matthew tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
I was talking to Nurmagomedov's coach per-fight and he was telling me that they'd been working on the clinch in the runup to this fight.
Matthew misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Matthew scores with a shot to the side of Nurmagomedov's head.
Matthew can't find room to land a body shot as Nurmagomedov controls the action.
A right hand to the body from Nurmagomedov.
Matthew blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Matthew tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Matthew has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Matthew dodges an elbow strike from Nurmagomedov.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Nurmagomedov.
Matthew can't find room to land a body shot as Nurmagomedov controls the action.
Matthew lands a hook that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Matthew blocks a body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Matthew misses with a punch on the inside.
Matthew blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Matthew lands with a short shot to the head.
Matthew struggles to land a body shot inside as Nurmagomedov controls his hands.
A hook to the body from Matthew.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Matthew.
Nurmagomedov looks to throw an elbow but misses.
Nurmagomedov blocking some punches. #T2#
Matthew lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matthew lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Nurmagomedov lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Matthew throws a punch but it's blocked by Nurmagomedov.
Matthew gets through Nurmagomedov's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Matthew misses with some punches.
Nurmagomedov lands with a right to the head.
Nurmagomedov takes a shot to the head.
Nurmagomedov tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Matthew lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Nurmagomedov or not.
Nurmagomedov lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Matthew.
Nurmagomedov can't find room to land a body shot as Matthew controls the action.
Nurmagomedov pushes off an throws an elbow but Matthew leans to the side and avoids it. We're back to clinching against the cage.
Nurmagomedov lands a body punch.
Matthew lands an uppercut.
Matthew misses with a short punch on the inside.
Nurmagomedov looks to throw an elbow but misses. #T3#
Matthew misses with the head strike.
Nurmagomedov has a couple of punches blocked by Matthew.
Matthew tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Nurmagomedov throws a nice elbow but it doesn't land.
Matthew misses with a short punch on the inside.
Matthew doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Nurmagomedov lands a shoulder strike.
Nurmagomedov swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Nurmagomedov pushes Matthew back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
Matthew misses with a shot to the kidneys.
A right hook to the body lands for Nurmagomedov.
Matthew swings wildly with an uppercut but Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov lands a body shot.
Matthew blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Matthew misses with a hook to the ribs.
Matthew blocks the elbow strike.
Matthew fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Nurmagomedov working aggressively here.
Matthew dodges an elbow strike from Nurmagomedov. #T4#
Matthew throws a punch but it's blocked by Nurmagomedov.
Matthew misses with a punch on the inside.
Matthew lands a right hand that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
A nice right hand lands inside from Nurmagomedov.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
A short uppercut from Nurmagomedov.
A short right from Matthew on the inside.
Matthew working aggressively here.
Matthew misses with a hook to the ribs.
Nurmagomedov lands with a left to the head.
Matthew lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Matthew blocks a body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Matthew misses with a punch on the inside.
Nurmagomedov tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook from the clinch.
Nurmagomedov looks to throw an elbow but misses.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov throws a nice elbow but it doesn't land.
A short uppercut from Matthew.
Nurmagomedov swings wildly with an uppercut but Matthew uses good head movement to avoid it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Patrick Matthew will probably get the nod - 10:9.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov'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. The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!#R3#
Nurmagomedov displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Matthew throws out the jab.
It looked like Nurmagomedov was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Matthew.#CL#
Nurmagomedov has taken the fight to the clinch.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Matthew.
Nurmagomedov lands a hook to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov can't find room to land a body shot as Matthew controls the action.
Nurmagomedov throws an elbow but it misses.
Matthew avoiding damage as Nurmagomedov throws knees to the body.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook from the clinch.
Matthew pushes Nurmagomedov back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a knee to the head but Matthew blocks with his arms.
Nurmagomedov working aggressively here.
Matthew lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Matthew throws a head punch that misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov misses with a punch on the inside.
Matthew lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Matthew swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Matthew lands with a left to the head.
Nurmagomedov misses with an elbow strike.
Matthew throws a head punch that misses. #T1#
Nurmagomedov tries a knee to the head but he's missed.
Nurmagomedov scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Matthew struggles to land a body shot inside as Nurmagomedov controls his hands.
Nurmagomedov pushes off an throws an elbow but Matthew leans to the side and avoids it. We're back to clinching against the cage.
Nurmagomedov lands with a light punch inside.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Matthew.
Matthew misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Matthew lands a left hand.
Matthew struggles to land a body shot inside as Nurmagomedov controls his hands.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Nurmagomedov creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Nurmagomedov prevents a body shot from Matthew.
Nurmagomedov scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Matthew misses with a short punch on the inside.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook from the clinch.
Nurmagomedov blocking some punches.
Nurmagomedov lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Patrick Matthew seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
Nurmagomedov swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Nurmagomedov misses with some punches.
Matthew lands a body shot.
Patrick Matthew is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.#T2#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov misses with an elbow strike.
Good body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Matthew blocking some punches.
Nurmagomedov pushes Matthew back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
Nurmagomedov tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Matthew's elbow.
Matthew lands a left hand that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Nurmagomedov blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Nurmagomedov has a couple of punches blocked by Matthew.
A short body shot lands from Matthew as the two fighters clinch.
Matthew lands with a left to the head.
Nurmagomedov gets through Matthew's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov has a couple of punches blocked by Matthew. #T3#
A short right hand to the side of the head by Matthew.
Matthew tries a body shot but Nurmagomedov blocks it.
Nurmagomedov blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Matthew avoids a wild elbow strike from Nurmagomedov.
Matthew blocks a body shot from Nurmagomedov.
Matthew doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Nurmagomedov misses with a punch on the inside.
Matthew blocks an elbow strike from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov throws a head punch that misses.
Nurmagomedov with the Thai clinch. He's looking to land a big knee but he's not managed it this time.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Matthew.
Nurmagomedov lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
With the fighters up against the cage, Nurmagomedov throws an elbow but misses.
A head punch on the inside from Nurmagomedov fails to land. #T4#
Nurmagomedov lands a right hand.
Matthew struggles to land a body shot inside as Nurmagomedov controls his hands.
Matthew lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards. #BC2#
Matthew breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Nurmagomedov misses the body punch
and Matthew counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Matthew lands a right hook to the body.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Matthew fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Nurmagomedov on the side of the head.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Matthew might want to mix his strikes up a bit more. He's just going for head shots at the moment and that can become a bit predictable.
Nurmagomedov blocks a jab.
The crowd cheers as Matthew lands an impressive looking overhand right. Nurmagomedov doesn't seem phased though.
Matthew connects with a right hand. Nurmagomedov shakes it off.
Nurmagomedov is looking to clinch but Matthew is avoiding it.
A cross from Matthew lands.
Nurmagomedov connects with a right hand. Matthew shakes it off.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Patrick Matthew.
I've got Matthew 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 Joseph Jones scores the fight 28:30
Judge Anthony Taglia scores the fight 27:30
Judge Eddie Farnsworth scores the fight 28:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Patrick Matthew!
Patrick Matthew decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: Bellicose 148
Date: Oct 09, 2022

#R1#
Nurmagomedov scores with a nice strike.
Furriel shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Nurmagomedov as he avoids it easily.
Jab from Nurmagomedov.
Furriel darts in looking for a takedown but Nurmagomedov gets double underhooks and turns Furriel into the cage. #TD2#
Furriel 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.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Furriel stopping the sweep attempt from Nurmagomedov.
Furriel pushing down on Nurmagomedov's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Nurmagomedov moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.#SUB#
Nurmagomedov throws his legs up looking for a submission but Furriel uses it to pass to side control.
Furriel looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Nurmagomedov is avoiding damage well.
Furriel creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Nurmagomedov sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Check out the look on Furriel's face as he threw that strike - that's one determined fighter!
Nurmagomedov might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.#T1#
Furriel creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Nurmagomedov sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Furriel looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Nurmagomedov is avoiding damage well.
Nurmagomedov is looking for a sweep.
Furriel is a painfully thin specimen of a man. You do wonder whether a good body kick would snap him clean in two.
Furriel in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of some ground and pound.
Furriel trying to control the action but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov is looking for a sweep.
Nurmagomedov's coaches at Casa Steel have been working on his defensive grappling in preparation for this fight so let's see if he can get out of this tricky position.
Nurmagomedov dodges the ground and pound from Furriel.
Furriel throws an elbow but Nurmagomedov slips to the side and avoids it well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T2#
You can see the frustration on Nurmagomedov's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Furriel working the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov tries to buck Furriel off but Furriel is having none of it.
Nurmagomedov takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
Furriel throws a knee to the body but it doesn't do much damage.
Nurmagomedov tries to bench press Furriel off him but Furriel keeps the position.
Nurmagomedov is not content to let Furriel control the position.
Furriel throws a knee to the body but it doesn't do much damage.
You can see the frustration on Nurmagomedov's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#T3#
Furriel lands a nice forearm strike.
Furriel trying to control the action but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom.
Furriel landing with strikes to the head and body from side control.
Furriel has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Nurmagomedov can't do much from the bottom here.
Furriel in side control, throwing shots but Nurmagomedov defends. #SUB2#
Furriel tries for a kimura but Nurmagomedov is defending well.
Furriel misses with an attempted head punch from side control. #T4#
Nurmagomedov takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.#SUB2#
Furriel tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Furriel has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Furriel throws an elbow but Nurmagomedov slips to the side and avoids it well.
Furriel trying to control the action but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Furriel is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Nurmagomedov has escaped the position, nice work there.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Furriel goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Nurmagomedov has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Furriel but great work by Nurmagomedov.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Marcos Furriel dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Nurmagomedov connects with the punch.#TD2#
Furriel changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Nurmagomedov looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Furriel sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Nurmagomedov is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Furriel tries to land with some ground and pound but misses. #SUB2#
Furriel goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Nurmagomedov has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Furriel but great work by Nurmagomedov.
Furriel seems a little lost for a moment, as Nurmagomedov dominates the positioning.
Nurmagomedov working the head with strikes.
Furriel is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Furriel is trying to get back to his feet.
Nurmagomedov working the ground and pound. #T1#
Furriel struggling a bit here.
Furriel tries to bench press Nurmagomedov off him but Nurmagomedov keeps the position.
Nurmagomedov landing a few strikes.
Nurmagomedov working the head with strikes.
Furriel can't do much from the bottom here.
Nurmagomedov trying to control the position but Furriel is working away.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Furriel tries to get back to half guard but can't.#T2#
Furriel regains half guard.
Furriel is trying to control but can't.
Furriel is trying to get back to full guard.
Marcos Furriel has got the better of the ground game so far.
Furriel works his way to full guard. Good work.#SUB2#
Furriel has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Nurmagomedov can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Furriel not looking particularly offensive just at the moment. #T3#
Furriel lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Nurmagomedov avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Furriel cracks Nurmagomedov with a solid left hand.#SUB#
Furriel got a little sloppy there for a moment and Nurmagomedov has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Furriel has managed to get both his arms back between Nurmagomedov's legs - danger averted.
Furriel in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Furriel throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Nurmagomedov works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov keeping moving, preventing Furriel from controlling successfully.
Furriel throws a big right hand that misses. #T4#
Nurmagomedov seems keen to control Furriel's posture.
Furriel looking to pass the guard. #SUB2#
Furriel drops back looking for a heel hook - he quickly realises he's not going to get it but Nurmagomedov manages to dive on top of him before he can escape and now Furriel has Nurmagomedov in his guard.#REVR##SUB2#
Furriel looking for a guillotine here but Nurmagomedov defends easily.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nurmagomedov throws a big elbow that misses.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Marcos Furriel 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#
Furriel closes the distance and clinches up with Nurmagomedov, looking for a takedown. Furriel pushes Nurmagomedov against the cage but Nurmagomedov circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
A little feinted left hand from Nurmagomedov on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Furriel will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.#CL#
Nurmagomedov moves into the clinch.
A short right from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov misses with a knee strike.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Nurmagomedov.
Furriel jumps guard but Nurmagomedov stands there with Furriel around his waist. Furriel gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Marcos Furriel.
Furriel goes for a takedown in the clinch but Nurmagomedov prevents it.
Nurmagomedov lands with a short punch from the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov misses with a knee strike.
Furriel avoids a wild elbow strike from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov working aggressively here.
Furriel wants a takedown but no success here.
Nurmagomedov pushes off and fires off an elbow that misses, before clinching up again, against the cage.#T1#
Furriel is working for takedown but Nurmagomedov is calmly controlling the position for now.
Furriel drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Nurmagomedov scores with a shot to the side of Furriel's head.
Nurmagomedov misses with an elbow over the top.
Furriel is looking to take this one to the mat.#TD2#
Furriel gets the body lock takedown. After a quick scramble, Nurmagomedov regains guard.
Nurmagomedov 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.
Furriel wants to control from the top but Nurmagomedov keeps moving.
Furriel won't allow Nurmagomedov to sweep him here.
Nurmagomedov avoiding any damage from the ground and pound. #T2#
Nurmagomedov looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Furriel puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard.
Furriel landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Nurmagomedov is trying to get back to full guard.
Furriel lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Well, if Furriel 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.
Furriel trying to mount his opponent but Nurmagomedov defends it. #T3#
Nurmagomedov blocking the ground and pound attempt from Furriel.
Nurmagomedov regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Furriel.
Furriel chips away with some ground and pound.
Furriel is looking to work some ground and pound but Nurmagomedov has wrist control.
Furriel trying to control the position from guard on top but Nurmagomedov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Nurmagomedov is looking to sweep but instead, Furriel has passed into half guard.
Furriel thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Nurmagomedov's head. #T4##SUB2#
Furriel 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.
Furriel is trying to control the action in half guard but Nurmagomedov is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Marcos Furriel is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Nurmagomedov is trying to get back to full guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Furriel is taking a breather. Nurmagomedov 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.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.

And that's the end of the fight!
Khabib Nurmagomedov showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Furriel 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 Reed Andrews scores the fight 28:29
Judge Lou da Vinci scores the fight 28:29
Judge Steve Montenegro scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by split decision... Marcos Furriel!

Event: Bellicose 141
Date: Sep 11, 2022

#R1##CL#
Mills clinches up against the cage.
Nurmagomedov pushes off and fires off an elbow that misses, before clinching up again, against the cage.
Nurmagomedov makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.#TD#
Mills pulls guard effortlessly.
Mills looking to hit a scissor sweep but Nurmagomedov is one step ahead there.
Nurmagomedov connects with a couple of short punches.
Nurmagomedov landing some decent shots from guard.
Nurmagomedov distracts Mills with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Nurmagomedov working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Mills keeping moving, preventing Nurmagomedov from controlling successfully.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nurmagomedov is working Mills over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov landing some decent shots from guard.
Nurmagomedov works over Mills with some ground and pound from guard.#ROC2#Mills is rocked!
Nurmagomedov has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Mills controls Nurmagomedov momentarily but Nurmagomedov frees himself.
Both fighters have adopted an aggressive gameplan on the ground!
Nurmagomedov distracts Mills with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Oh Mills is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!#T1#
Nurmagomedov is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Mills is trying to control the position but Nurmagomedov postures up.
Nurmagomedov engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Mills seems to have got his legs back now.
Nurmagomedov lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Mills is trying to control the position but Nurmagomedov postures up.
Nurmagomedov wants to pass the guard but Mills is keeping the position.
Nurmagomedov connects with a couple of short punches.#SUB#
Mills is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Nurmagomedov defends well.
Nurmagomedov stands up over Mills, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Nurmagomedov stopping the sweep attempt from Mills.
Nurmagomedov lands a couple of digs.
Nurmagomedov wants to control from the top but Mills keeps moving. #T2#
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Nurmagomedov forces his way into half guard.
Mills manages to get to full guard.
Mills looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Nurmagomedov trying to control the position from guard on top but Mills is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Mills has momentary wrist control but Nurmagomedov slips an elbow through the middle.
Nurmagomedov postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Nurmagomedov scoring with some ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov wants to control from the top but Mills keeps moving.
Nurmagomedov slips nicely into half guard.
Mills has hold of Nurmagomedov's hands but Nurmagomedov slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Nurmagomedov looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Mills with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position. #T3#
Nurmagomedov seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Nurmagomedov working Mills over with strikes.
Mills on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Mills has hold of Nurmagomedov's hands but Nurmagomedov slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Nurmagomedov seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Mills strikes from the bottom but Nurmagomedov passes into mount!
Nurmagomedov is in the full mount, landing strikes.
Mills in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
Nurmagomedov loads up on a couple of big shots to the head that have Mills scrambling to escape. He can't get free though and several more unanswered shots from Nurmagomedov land to the head. The referee has no choice but to stop the fight. Nurmagomedov stands and salutes the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:52 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
A very excited looking Khabib Nurmagomedov 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: Bellicose 130 - Prospects 11
Date: Aug 12, 2022

#R1#
Boles takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Nurmagomedov throws the left hand but Boles avoids the punch easily.
A counter left hand to the body from Boles misses its target.
Boles walks into a stiff left hand from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Nurmagomedov misses with a lunging right hand
and Boles connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#TD2#
Nurmagomedov 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.
Boles wants to control the position but Nurmagomedov says "no thanks buddy" and passes to half guard.
Boles is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Nurmagomedov scores with a couple of nice shots.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Nurmagomedov missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Nurmagomedov has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Nurmagomedov sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Boles defending well though.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Boles wants to get back to full guard.
Boles taking some punishment here, with Nurmagomedov in his half guard. #T1#
Nurmagomedov missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Nurmagomedov is keen to just control but Boles is a slippery customer.
Boles knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Nurmagomedov on the ground.
Boles blocking the ground and pound attempt from Nurmagomedov.
Boles wants to control but Nurmagomedov is keeping busy.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Nurmagomedov wants to pass to mount but Boles is defending the position.
Nurmagomedov winds up and cracks Boles with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Boles gets full guard.
Nurmagomedov loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Nurmagomedov wants to control from the top but Boles keeps moving.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Nurmagomedov accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand. #T2#
Nurmagomedov works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Nurmagomedov thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Boles avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Nurmagomedov.
Boles is refusing to be controlled, as Nurmagomedov sits in half guard.
Nurmagomedov sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Boles defending well though.
Nurmagomedov landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Boles definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Nurmagomedov thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Boles's head.
Boles wants to control but Nurmagomedov is keeping busy.
Nurmagomedov missing with the ground and pound from half guard. #T3#
Nurmagomedov wants to pass to mount but Boles is defending the position.
Nurmagomedov sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Boles defending well though.
Boles keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Boles is keeping him busy.
Nurmagomedov drops an elbow to the side of Boles's head.
Nurmagomedov lands with a punch from half guard.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Nurmagomedov lands a nice short elbow.
Nurmagomedov takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Well, if Nurmagomedov 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.
Nurmagomedov wants to lay and pray for a moment but Boles keeps working. #T4#
Nurmagomedov throwing shots but Boles is blocking nicely.
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Boles is keeping him busy.
Nice strikes from Nurmagomedov there.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Nurmagomedov throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Nurmagomedov throwing shots but Boles is blocking nicely.
Nurmagomedov throwing shots but Boles is blocking nicely.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nurmagomedov seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
Nice strikes from Nurmagomedov there.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Nurmagomedov looks to clinch
enabling Boles to counter with a crisp jab.
The fighters circling - Nurmagomedov throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook.
Nurmagomedov shoots and misses
and Boles counters with a left to the body.
Nurmagomedov scores with a punch to the head.#TD2#
Nurmagomedov throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Boles was covering up waiting for the punch and Nurmagomedov finishes the takedown easily into guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Boles's head.#T1#
Boles utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov advances to half guard.
Nurmagomedov perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
Nurmagomedov thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Boles's head.
Nurmagomedov not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
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. Nurmagomedov connects with a nice short shot to Boles's temple.
Nurmagomedov throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Boles is looking to improve his position.
Nurmagomedov missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Nurmagomedov looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent. #T2#
Nurmagomedov seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
Boles avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov stalling.
Nurmagomedov is trying to control. Boles wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Ground and pound from Nurmagomedov.
Boles is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Nurmagomedov scores with a couple of nice shots.
Boles is looking to get full guard. It looks like he might be successful but at the last minute Nurmagomedov jumps into side control!#T3#
Nurmagomedov working the ground and pound but Boles is defending the strikes.
Boles regains half guard there - taking advantage of Nurmagomedov's attempt to lay and pray for a moment.
Nurmagomedov working the head and body with strikes.
Nurmagomedov is nestled in close to Boles, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Ground and pound from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov wants to lay and pray for a moment but Boles keeps working.
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. Nurmagomedov connects with a nice short shot to Boles's temple.
Boles is not content to let Nurmagomedov control the position.#T4#
Nurmagomedov drops an elbow to the side of Boles's head.
Nurmagomedov wants to take a breather but Boles is having none of it.
Nurmagomedov missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Nurmagomedov has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Nurmagomedov working Boles over with strikes here.
Nurmagomedov looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nurmagomedov cracks Boles with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nurmagomedov with shots to the head and body - Boles looks very uncomfortable down there.
Nurmagomedov is landing with some decent strikes but Boles is trying to advance his position so the referee is letting the fight continue.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov 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#
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping left.
An attempted straight right counter from Boles misses the target.
Boles uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Nurmagomedov tries to clinch
and Boles counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right.
Boles is looking to counter punch.
Nurmagomedov swings and misses with a hook to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#CL2#
Nurmagomedov has taken the fight to the clinch.
Nurmagomedov throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but Boles blocks it with crossed arms.
Boles doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Boles misses with a hook from the clinch. #T1#
Nurmagomedov pushes off and fires off an elbow that misses, before clinching up again, against the cage.
Boles misses with the head strike.
A nice left hand lands by Boles.
Nurmagomedov pushes off an throws an elbow but Boles leans to the side and avoids it. We're back to clinching against the cage.
Nurmagomedov wants a takedown.
Boles goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Boles has a couple of punches blocked by Nurmagomedov.
Boles lands with a short shot to the head.
A shot in the inside from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov lands a hook that snaps the head of Boles backwards.
Nurmagomedov lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Nurmagomedov tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Boles's elbow.
Nurmagomedov creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses.
Nurmagomedov swings wildly with an uppercut but Boles uses good head movement to avoid it. #BC#
Boles's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Nurmagomedov throws a lazy uppercut
and Boles counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Nice shot by Nurmagomedov.
Charles E Boles has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Charles E Boles is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#T2#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nurmagomedov throws a poor cross that misses
enabling Boles to counter with a crisp jab.
Nurmagomedov has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Nurmagomedov closes this distance looking for a takedown but Boles circles away.
An attempted straight right counter from Boles misses the target.
Nurmagomedov might want to mix his strikes up a bit more. He's just going for head shots at the moment and that can become a bit predictable.
Nurmagomedov darts in trying to clinch
and Boles counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Nurmagomedov cracks Boles with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Nurmagomedov shoots and misses
and Boles counters with a stiff right hand.
Charles E Boles has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Khabib Nurmagomedov.#T3#
Boles avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Boles is looking to counter punch.#TD2#
Nurmagomedov shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Boles is trying to defend but Nurmagomedov finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Boles looks like he's trying to stand up.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has got the better of the ground game so far.
Nurmagomedov is pressing down on Boles's thigh, looking to free his foot. Boles is holding on for now. #T4#
Nurmagomedov is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Khabib Nurmagomedov is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Boles blocking the ground and pound attempt from Nurmagomedov.
Neither fighter is being very active at the moment, with Nurmagomedov in particular looking to stall.
Nurmagomedov wants to free his trapped foot but Boles is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Nurmagomedov works his foot free and advances to mount.
Nurmagomedov looking to control and managing it successfully.

And that's the end of the fight!
Khabib Nurmagomedov comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Nurmagomedov 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 Joseph Jones scores the fight 27:30
Judge Franklyn Lucas scores the fight 27:30
Judge Jonathan Paton scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Khabib Nurmagomedov!
A relieved looking Khabib Nurmagomedov 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: Bellicose 119
Date: Jul 09, 2022

#R1#
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right.
Nurmagomedov takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Nurmagomedov takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Nurmagomedov swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Nurmagomedov avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Nurmagomedov throws out a counter right but Aengus avoids it with no problem.
Aengus misses with an uppercut
and Nurmagomedov counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Aengus punishes Nurmagomedov's body with a nice straight punch.
Aengus thows a left - swing and a miss!
Aengus getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Aengus blocks a jab.
Nurmagomedov steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Aengus.
Aengus throws a lazy right hand but Nurmagomedov sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Nurmagomedov displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Aengus throws out the jab.
Nurmagomedov throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Aengus lands with a hook. Nurmagomedov tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Caelan Aengus seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nurmagomedov throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Aengus sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Aengus swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Nurmagomedov slips a straight right by Aengus.#T1#
Aengus missing with a left hand there. Nurmagomedov was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
A slow jab from Nurmagomedov misses its intended target.
Aengus misses with a right hand
and Nurmagomedov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Aengus lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.
Aengus lands with a cross.
Aengus waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping left.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook.
Aengus misses with a straight right.
Aengus is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Aengus misses with an uppercut.
Aengus shuffles to his left behind two crisp jabs. Nurmagomedov eats them both and turns towards Aengus to reposition himself and eats a stinging right hand-left hook combo.
A jab from Aengus misses.
A telegraphed right hand from Aengus misses the target.
Nurmagomedov ducks under a wild hook from Aengus.
Nurmagomedov loads up on a big right hand but Aengus slips the punch.#T2#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Aengus misses with an uppercut. Nurmagomedov saw that one coming.
Aengus throws a hook to the side of Nurmagomedov's head but Nurmagomedov sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Nurmagomedov scores with a hook.
Aengus throws a right hand that Nurmagomedov ducks under and follows up with a left that Nurmagomedov also avoids with ease.
Aengus throws a lazy uppercut
and Nurmagomedov counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Nurmagomedov throws a body punch but Aengus moves out of range.
Nurmagomedov shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Aengus sprawls well. Aengus wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Nurmagomedov gets slowly back to his feet.
Aengus tries to close the distance and clinch but Nurmagomedov swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Nurmagomedov keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Aengus connects with a right hand. Nurmagomedov shakes it off.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Aengus.
A countering left hand to the body from Nurmagomedov misses.
Aengus slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.#T3#
Nurmagomedov is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook. Aengus ducked under it nicely.
Aengus is really peppering his opponent's head with punches.
Nurmagomedov shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Aengus sprawls well. Aengus wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Nurmagomedov gets slowly back to his feet.
Nurmagomedov circles away from the clinch attempt.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Nurmagomedov! But no joy.
Nurmagomedov keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Aengus.
Aengus throws a leg kick but Nurmagomedov sees it coming and moves out of range.
Decent striking displayed by Aengus there.
Aengus swinging wildly here.
Caelan Aengus is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Aengus bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Nurmagomedov's head.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook.#T4#
Aengus throws a predictable looking body shot
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Nurmagomedov displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Aengus throws out the jab.
Aengus misses with a right hand
and Nurmagomedov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Aengus throws a jab but it's blocked by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Aengus scores with a nice head shot.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Aengus looks to land a combination. Nurmagomedov sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Nurmagomedov drops his hands momentarily and Aengus takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Nurmagomedov steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Aengus.
Nurmagomedov takes one on the button.
Aengus uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Aengus uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Aengus moves away.
Aengus connects with a nice looking jab.
Aengus lands a jab to the nose.
Nurmagomedov lands with a hook. Aengus tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Caelan Aengus 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#
Aengus fails to land the takedown.
Aengus pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Nice uppercut lands for Aengus. That snapped Nurmagomedov's head back.
Caelan Aengus is winning the standup battle so far.
Aengus keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov slips under a jab.
Aengus drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
A big left from Nurmagomedov misses.
Nurmagomedov digs a good body shot into Aengus's ribs.
Aengus walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Aengus lands a jab to the nose.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Aengus misses with a lunging right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a straight right hand.#ROC2#Aengus is rocked!
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping left.
Oh Aengus is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Nurmagomedov misses with a looping right.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Aengus uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Nurmagomedov.
Aengus seems to have got his legs back now.
Nurmagomedov throws a jab when Aengus was well out of range.#T1#
Aengus throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a crisp right that sends Aengus to the canvas! Nurmagomedov follows up with punches from the mount and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:06 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
After winning the bout, Khabib Nurmagomedov thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

Event: Bellicose 109
Date: Jun 11, 2022

#R1#
Nice shot lands for Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Nurmagomedov swings widly with a right hand #TD2#
and Bollomard counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Nurmagomedov trying to control from the bottom.
Bollomard throwing shots but Nurmagomedov is blocking nicely.
Nurmagomedov is looking to improve his position.
Bollomard trying to control the action but Nurmagomedov is working from the bottom.
Nurmagomedov wants to improve his position but Bollomard is controlling well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Bollomard passes into side.
Nurmagomedov knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Bollomard on the ground.
Bollomard scores with punches from side control.
Bollomard has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.#SUB2#
Bollomard tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though. #T1#
Bollomard tries to score with some ground and pound. Nurmagomedov controls his posture well this time though and the shots don't do any damage.
Bollomard in the domination position with Nurmagomedov hanging on.
Bollomard tries to advance to mount but Nurmagomedov denies him.
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Bollomard postures up.
Nurmagomedov tries to improve position but can't.
Nurmagomedov's coaches at Casa Steel have been working on his defensive grappling in preparation for this fight so let's see if he can get out of this tricky position.#SUB2#
Bollomard tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Nurmagomedov is trying to get back to half guard.#T2#
Nurmagomedov managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Bollomard.
Nurmagomedov tries to bench press Bollomard off him but Bollomard keeps the position.
The strikes coming from Bollomard are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
An elbow from Bollomard crashes against the mat.
Nurmagomedov is trying to get back to half guard.
Nurmagomedov on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Nurmagomedov tries to get out of the position.
Bollomard working away.
Bollomard working the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov is positioning himself to get back to half guard. #T3##SUB2#
Bollomard is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Nurmagomedov knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Nurmagomedov tries to buck Bollomard off but Bollomard is having none of it.
Nurmagomedov taking a bit of punishment here - Bollomard scoring with strikes. #SUB2#
Bollomard is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Nurmagomedov has escaped the position, nice work there.
Bollomard working the ground and pound from side control.
Nurmagomedov is trying to get back to half guard.
Bollomard advances to mount. #T4#
The referee warns Nurmagomedov that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head.
Bollomard throwing sloppy strikes, which aren't doing any damage.
Nurmagomedov is trying desperately to improve position.
Bollomard is landing with some decent strikes but Nurmagomedov is trying to advance his position so the referee is letting the fight continue.
Bollomard looking to finish with strikes here!
Nurmagomedov is trying desperately to improve position.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Bollomard landing strikes, looking to finish!
Nurmagomedov is desperately trying to improve his position but Bollomard has a good base and remains in mount.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Bollomard jumps to side control looking for an arm triangle but Nurmagomedov manages to avoid the submission attempt.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Jacques Bollomard dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Bollomard swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
and Nurmagomedov counters with a straight right hand.
Bollomard misses with a double jab
and Bollomard takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #CUT#It looks like Jacques Bollomard has been cut.
Nurmagomedov throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Nurmagomedov displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Bollomard throws out the jab.
Bollomard goes for a double leg but Nurmagomedov avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Nurmagomedov continues to drive forward.
Nurmagomedov throwing a counter right hand but Bollomard manages to avoid it.
Bollomard misses with a hook
and Nurmagomedov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bollomard misses with a wild body shot.
Nurmagomedov uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Bollomard.
Nurmagomedov goes for a double leg but Bollomard avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Bollomard continues to drive forward.
And Bollomard tries to counter it with a takedown but Nurmagomedov pushes his down on his head and steps out.#T1#
Nurmagomedov lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
A shot in the inside from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov lands a hook that snaps the head of Bollomard backwards.
Nurmagomedov lands a right hand. #ROC#Bollomard is rocked!
Nurmagomedov lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Bollomard backwards.
Bollomard is still on wobbly legs! Can Nurmagomedov finish him?
Nurmagomedov wants to take the fight to the mat but Bollomard manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
Nurmagomedov missing with knees to the body.
Bollomard tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Nurmagomedov's elbow.
Nurmagomedov throws a knee to the head but misses.
Bollomard has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Nurmagomedov lands a left hand that snaps the head of Bollomard backwards.
Nurmagomedov lands a right hand that snaps the head of Bollomard backwards.
Nurmagomedov tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Nurmagomedov lands a right hand.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Nurmagomedov is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Bollomard is defending well for now.
Nurmagomedov prevents Bollomard from breaking the clinch.
Bollomard doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Nurmagomedov throws an elbow but it's blocked.
Nurmagomedov lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Bollomard blocks an uppercut.
Nurmagomedov scores with a shoulder strike.
Nurmagomedov misses with a punch on the inside.
Bollomard seems to have recovered his senses.#T2##BC2#
Bollomard breaks the clinch.
Bollomard throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Bollomard looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
A left lands for Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov blocks a jab.
Bollomard throws a wild body kick that Nurmagomedov sees coming a mile off.
Bollomard misses with a lunging right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a stiff right hand.
Nurmagomedov looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Bollomard is fending him off so far but Nurmagomedov persists. Nope, Bollomard circles away and we're back to standing.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Khabib Nurmagomedov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Bollomard throws an overhand right that lands on Nurmagomedov's shoulder, as Nurmagomedov tries to avoid the shot.
Nurmagomedov takes a swing at Bollomard's ribcage but misses. #T3#
Nurmagomedov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Bollomard was well out of range. Poor timing from Nurmagomedov.
Bollomard feints a jab promting Nurmagomedov to slip. Bollomard then demonstrates his capabilities by jabbing again. Nurmagomedov slips again and ducks right into an uppercut.
Bollomard throws a low kick but Nurmagomedov avoids it.
Nurmagomedov throwing a counter right hand but Bollomard manages to avoid it.
Nurmagomedov listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Nurmagomedov uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Bollomard has time to react.
Bollomard uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Nurmagomedov.
Bollomard throws a shot to the body.
Nice sprawl there from Nurmagomedov as Bollomard shoots in.
Nurmagomedov darts in and out, connecting with a jab. #T4##TD2#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Nurmagomedov enables Bollomard to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Nurmagomedov manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Bollomard trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Nurmagomedov looking to hit a scissor sweep but Bollomard is one step ahead there.
Bollomard is looking to work some ground and pound but Nurmagomedov has wrist control.
Nurmagomedov wants to sweep here but Bollomard controlling him for the moment.
Nurmagomedov bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Bollomard's guard. #REVR#
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Jacques Bollomard'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. This is the final round!#R3#
Bollomard throws an off balance right hand
and Nurmagomedov counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Bollomard on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Nurmagomedov uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Bollomard.
Bollomard fails to land with a series of punches.
The fighters circling - Bollomard throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Nurmagomedov scores with a nice right hand.
Nice uppercut lands for Nurmagomedov. That snapped Bollomard's head back.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bollomard showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
Jab from Bollomard.#T1#
Bollomard tries to close the distance and clinch but Nurmagomedov swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Nurmagomedov darts in and out, connecting with a jab. #CUT#That has opened up Jacques Bollomard's cut even more.
Bollomard uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Nurmagomedov.
Bollomard tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Bollomard.
Nurmagomedov is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Nurmagomedov throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
No joy there for Bollomard, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Bollomard takes a swing at Nurmagomedov's ribcage but misses.
Nurmagomedov tries to counter by moving into the clinch but Bollomard manages to circle out of the way.
Nurmagomedov misses the jab.#T2#
Nurmagomedov tests Bollomard's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Bollomard ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Nurmagomedov moves away.
Nurmagomedov tries to counter with a takedown but Bollomard is quick to defend against it.
Bollomard missing with a left hand there. Nurmagomedov was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
The fighters circling - Nurmagomedov throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Bollomard throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight left.
Nurmagomedov throws an overhand right that lands on Bollomard's shoulder, as Bollomard tries to avoid the shot.
Bollomard throws a nice looking combination but Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.#T3#
Bollomard ducks under a wild hook from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov fails with the takedown.#TD2#
Bollomard closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Nurmagomedov tries to improve position but can't.
Bollomard lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face.
Bollomard sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Nurmagomedov is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Nurmagomedov is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Bollomard in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time. #T4#
Bollomard throws an elbow but Nurmagomedov slips to the side and avoids it well.
Nurmagomedov tries to bench press Bollomard off him but Bollomard keeps the position.
Bollomard misses with the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov is positioning himself to get back to half guard. #SUB2#
Bollomard is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Nurmagomedov knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Nurmagomedov is looking to reverse the position.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Jacques Bollomard.
I think Bollomard 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 Reed Andrews scores the fight 28:29
Judge Chad Campbell scores the fight 28:29
Judge Lou da Vinci scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Jacques Bollomard!
A very excited looking Jacques Bollomard 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: Bellicose 98 - Prospects 3
Date: May 18, 2022

#R1#
Nurmagomedov takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Nurmagomedov scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
We've been told by Slice's head coaches at Doom's Gym that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Nurmagomedov misses with a straight right.
A telegraphed right hand from Slice misses the target.
Slice lands a nice looking body shot.
Slice throws an overhand right that lands on Nurmagomedov's shoulder, as Nurmagomedov tries to avoid the shot.
Slice waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Nurmagomedov misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Nurmagomedov looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Slice tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Nurmagomedov was well out of range. Poor timing from Slice.
Nurmagomedov with the counter takedown but Slice avoids it easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov defending well as Slice loads up on a big left hand.
Nice defenses there by Slice.
Slice misses with a hook.#T1#
Nurmagomedov misses with a left hand
and Slice counters with a right hand to the body.
Nurmagomedov lunges at Slice with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Slice's hand.
Slice misses with a hook. Nurmagomedov ducked under it nicely.
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Nice sprawl there from Slice as Nurmagomedov shoots in.
Slice misses with a lunging right hand #TD2#
and Nurmagomedov counters with a shoot takedown. Slice fights it but they end up in guard.
Nurmagomedov prevents Slice from getting back to his feet.
Slice avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov throwing strikes from guard but Slice blocks nicely.
Nurmagomedov wants to pass the guard but Slice is keeping the position.#T2#
Nurmagomedov throwing strikes from guard but Slice blocks nicely.
Slice utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov throwing strikes from guard but Slice blocks nicely.
Nurmagomedov postures up in Slice's guard and throws a big left but Slice blocks it.
Nurmagomedov has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Nurmagomedov postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Nurmagomedov content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Slice looking to hit a scissor sweep but Nurmagomedov is one step ahead there.
Nurmagomedov loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry. #T3#
Nurmagomedov trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Slice keeping moving, preventing Nurmagomedov from controlling successfully.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.
Nurmagomedov throwing strikes from guard but Slice blocks nicely.
Slice avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Nurmagomedov is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Slice keeping moving, preventing Nurmagomedov from controlling successfully.
Nurmagomedov is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions. #T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Slice has momentary wrist control but Nurmagomedov slips an elbow through the middle.
Nurmagomedov passes Slice's right leg, so he's now in half guard.
Nurmagomedov trying to control the action but Slice is working from the bottom.
Slice is trying to stand back up but Nurmagomedov is controlling him
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Slice regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov scoring with punches to the head and body.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Slice preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Nurmagomedov works over Slice with some ground and pound from guard.
Nurmagomedov missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Slice throws a hook but Nurmagomedov avoids it easily.
Nurmagomedov uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Slice.
Nurmagomedov jabs Slice right on the nose. Slice blinks but takes it well.
Slice throws a right hand that misses
and Nurmagomedov counters with a left to the body.
Slice takes one on the chin but keeps coming. #ROC2#Slice is rocked!
A lazy left from Slice finds it's target.
Nurmagomedov fails with a takedown attempt.
Slice is looking to counter punch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.#T1#
A telegraphed right hand from Slice misses the target.
Nurmagomedov clobbers Slice with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Slice stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Slice is looking to clinch but Nurmagomedov is avoiding it.
Slice uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Nurmagomedov.
Bartholomew Slice is winning the standup battle so far.
Nurmagomedov uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Slice.
A big left from Slice misses.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Nurmagomedov! But no joy.
Slice drops his hands momentarily and Nurmagomedov takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Bartholomew Slice is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#T2#
Slice swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Nurmagomedov swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Nice shot by Nurmagomedov.
Oh Slice is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Nurmagomedov cracks Slice with a good jab.
Slice throws a jab when Nurmagomedov was well out of range.#KD2#
Oh, that's a big right hand from Nurmagomedov and Slice goes tumbling to the canvas! Nurmagomedov follows him to the ground and looks to finish from half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Nurmagomedov is sitting in half guard. He's postured up and lands a nice elbow. Oh, Slice is hurt! He's hurt bad - Nurmagomedov fires away with more strikes and the referee jumps in to save Slice from any more punishment! Congratulations to Nurmagomedov! Great finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:55 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
A victorious Khabib Nurmagomedov thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

Event: Outlaw 21 - 145 Showdown
Date: Apr 09, 2022

#R1#
Nurmagomedov dives in and grabs Mcgregor's left leg, looking for a takedown. Mcgregor pushes down on Nurmagomedov's head and hops out.
Mcgregor tries to clinch up.
Mcgregor throws a nice looking combination but Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Nurmagomedov is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Mcgregor with a body shot.
Mcgregor throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Mcgregor misses with a combination
and Nurmagomedov counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Mcgregor will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Nurmagomedov has been working on his striking defense in training and it's paying off as Mcgregor is landing a low percentage of strikes.
Mcgregor moves away from the strike by Nurmagomedov.
Mcgregor looks to clinch
enabling Nurmagomedov to counter with a crisp jab.
Mcgregor moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Mcgregor swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Good shot there by Nurmagomedov.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Mcgregor tries to clinch up.
Nurmagomedov looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Nurmagomedov swinging wildly here.
Mcgregor lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Nurmagomedov circles away quickly and effectively.#T1#
Mcgregor throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
It seemed like Nurmagomedov was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Liam Mcgregor seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Mcgregor misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Mcgregor throws a combination that misses
and Nurmagomedov cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Nurmagomedov slips under a jab.
Mcgregor swinging wildly here.
Nurmagomedov throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Mcgregor's waist but Mcgregor gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Nurmagomedov off to one side.
A combination from Mcgregor does no damage.
Nurmagomedov takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Nice cross by Nurmagomedov.#TD2#
Nurmagomedov scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Mcgregor is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Nurmagomedov in side control lands a decent elbow.
Nurmagomedov with the ground and pound but Mcgregor regains half guard under the barage of strikes.
Nurmagomedov throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage. #T2#
Nurmagomedov trying to control from half guard but Mcgregor is working away.
Nurmagomedov working over Mcgregor with some ground and pound. Mcgregor looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Nurmagomedov 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.
Mcgregor is trying to stand up here but Nurmagomedov is controlling him well.
Nurmagomedov wants to take a breather but Mcgregor is having none of it.
Nurmagomedov slips a nice elbow through Mcgregor's hands, connecting with Mcgregor's forehead.
Nurmagomedov missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Nurmagomedov looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Ground and pound from Nurmagomedov.
Mcgregor is breathing heavily.#T3#
Nurmagomedov is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Nurmagomedov winds up and cracks Mcgregor with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Nurmagomedov is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Nurmagomedov scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Nurmagomedov is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Nurmagomedov is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Nurmagomedov wants to lay and pray for a moment but Mcgregor keeps working. #T4#
Nurmagomedov is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Nurmagomedov lands a nice short elbow.
Nurmagomedov missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Nurmagomedov not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Nurmagomedov wants to control but Mcgregor is keeping him busy.
Nurmagomedov lands with a punch from half guard.
Nurmagomedov not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Nice strikes from Nurmagomedov there.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Nurmagomedov missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Mcgregor on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2##TD2#
Nurmagomedov looking to score a takedown here. Mcgregor is defending well but Nurmagomedov drives through and ends up in Mcgregor's guard.
Nurmagomedov missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Nurmagomedov working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Nurmagomedov lands a couple of digs.
Mcgregor preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Nurmagomedov postures up in Mcgregor's guard and throws a big left but Mcgregor blocks it.
Mcgregor preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Nurmagomedov stays in close to Mcgregor's body and controls the position.
Nurmagomedov is working Mcgregor over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Nurmagomedov missing there with some ground and pound from the guard. #T1#
Nurmagomedov passes into half guard.
Nurmagomedov tries to pass the half guard into mount. Mcgregor knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Nurmagomedov seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Nurmagomedov passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Mcgregor!
Nurmagomedov lands a shot to the body, followed up by a shot to the exposed head of his trapped opponent.
Nurmagomedov breaks from Mcgregor's wrist control and lands an elbow. #T2#
Nurmagomedov is landing with some decent strikes but Mcgregor is trying to advance his position so the referee is letting the fight continue.#ROC2#Mcgregor is rocked!
Nurmagomedov in mount throwing good strikes here, bouncing his opponent's head off the canvas.
Oh Mcgregor is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Nurmagomedov loads up with a big shot that hurts Mcgregor! He's pulled Nurmagomedov in close but Nurmagomedov has postured up and lands more strikes. Can Mcgregor survive? More strikes from Nurmagomedov and Mcgregor is out! The ref jumps in to save him! Brutal ground and pound!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:30 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Khabib Nurmagomedov seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

Event: Outlaw 16 - 145 Showdown
Date: Mar 12, 2022

#R1#
Sixteen misses with a wild body shot.
Sixteen looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Sixteen tries to clinch up but Nurmagomedov circles away and keeps his distance.
Sixteen is looking to clinch.
Sixteen gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Sixteen looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Sixteen tries to close the distance and clinch but Nurmagomedov swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Nurmagomedov ducks under a wild hook from Sixteen.
Sixteen doesn't manage to clinch there - Nurmagomedov circles away.
It seemed like Nurmagomedov was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Sixteen tries to work over Nurmagomedov's front leg with a kick but Nurmagomedov checks it.
Sixteen doesn't manage to clinch there - Nurmagomedov circles away.
Sixteen slips under a jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sixteen throws a body shot but no joy.
Nurmagomedov has been working on his striking defense in training and it's paying off as Sixteen is landing a low percentage of strikes.
Nurmagomedov with a nice cross.
Sixteen tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Nurmagomedov looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Sixteen fails to land with a series of punches.
Sixteen tries to clinch but Nurmagomedov is having none of it.
Nurmagomedov throws a shot from downtown. Sixteen moves away and avoids it.#T1#
A telegraphed right hand from Sixteen misses the target.
It seemed like Nurmagomedov was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.#TD2#
Nurmagomedov bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Sixteen takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
Nurmagomedov has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Sixteen is being controlled here.
Sixteen is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Sixteen tries to improve position but can't.
Sixteen is working hard here to advance position.
Nurmagomedov is putting a hurting on Sixteen here, landing some big shots from side control.
Sixteen takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Sixteen takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.#ROC2#Sixteen is rocked!
Nurmagomedov looks up at the clock and then as Sixteen takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Nurmagomedov smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
Oh Sixteen is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Nurmagomedov scores with a big shot from side control... and another... and another! Oh Sixteen is done here - save him referee! More strikes land and eventually the ref does step in and Nurmagomedov can finally stop beating on his defenseless opponent!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Khabib Nurmagomedov!
Khabib Nurmagomedov decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: Outlaw 10 - 205 Round 2
Date: Jan 29, 2022

#R1##TD#
McShane scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Nurmagomedov wants to control but McShane is keeping busy.
McShane has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
McShane wants to take his opponent's back but Nurmagomedov doesn't allow it.
Nurmagomedov blocking the ground and pound. #SUB#
McShane looking to secure an arm triangle but Nurmagomedov defends it well.
McShane wants to take Nurmagomedov's back here but Nurmagomedov is holding on to an arm, himself looking to escape.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nurmagomedov is desperately trying to improve his position but McShane has a good base and remains in mount.
Nurmagomedov felt the need to train up his defensive grappling in the buildup to the fight. Presumably he was expecting to be in a difficult position like this, so let's see if he can get out of it.
Nurmagomedov is squirming around, avoiding McShane's attempts to control the action. #T1##SUB#
McShane looking for a guillotine from mount but Nurmagomedov is having none of it. #SUB#
McShane goes for an armbar but he's not got it… Nurmagomedov turns into him and now he's in McShane's guard.
McShane manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Nurmagomedov manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
McShane trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Nurmagomedov tries to land a sweep but no joy.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
McShane wants to control from the top but Nurmagomedov keeps moving.
Nurmagomedov really doesn't want to stay on the ground with McShane. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.#T2#
Nurmagomedov lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Nurmagomedov is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
McShane is trying to control the position from the bottom.
McShane 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.
McShane is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.#T3##SUB#
McShane looking for a triangle here. Nurmagomedov is fighting it but it looks tight! McShane pulls the arm across and this one won't last much longer! Nope, Nurmagomedov is tapping out - this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:20 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Choke). Finlay McShane!
Finlay McShane seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Dec 06, 2021

#R1#
Crunch! Hendriksen slams his shin into Nurmagomedov's torso.
Horrible takedown attempt by Nurmagomedov or perhaps it was just good defense by Hendriksen, which made it look bad.
Nurmagomedov takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?
Hendriksen lands with an uppercut that bounces Nurmagomedov off the cage and back into range.#CUT2#It looks like Khabib Nurmagomedov has been cut.
Nurmagomedov tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Hendriksen was well out of range. Poor timing from Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Nurmagomedov tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Hendriksen explodes with a nice body kick and back out of range. Nice work.
Nurmagomedov moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Nurmagomedov takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Nurmagomedov chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Hendriksen can pounce on him.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Hendriksen lets loose with a powerful body kick. Nurmagomedov will feel that in the morning.
Decent striking displayed by Hendriksen there.
Nurmagomedov misses with a hook. Hendriksen ducked under it nicely.
Hendriksen lands with a shot to the body.
Hendriksen throws a shot to the body. #T1#
Hendriksen with a nice calf kick.
Nurmagomedov changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Hendriksen tries to avoid it but Nurmagomedov manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Hendriksen to the ground. Hendriksen escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Hendriksen connects with a solid leg kick.
Hendriksen lands a front kick.
That kick from Hendriksen tenderised Nurmagomedov's leg. Nurmagomedov is trying to keep his angry face on.
A kick lands to the mid section there for Hendriksen.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Hendriksen. Nurmagomedov shrugs it off though.
Nurmagomedov is breathing heavily.
Hendriksen swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov shoots in but no luck this time.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Khabib Nurmagomedov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Hendriksen works Nurmagomedov's body with a nice hook.
Hendriksen lands a front kick.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Nurmagomedov ducks right into an uppercut from Hendriksen.
Nurmagomedov closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Nurmagomedov stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Hendriksen.
A thudding body kick lands there by Hendriksen! #T2#
An inside leg kick lands from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen connects with a good right hand that stumbles Nurmagomedov. Nurmagomedov circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Hendriksen connects with a good right hand that stumbles Nurmagomedov. Nurmagomedov circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Nurmagomedov takes one to the side of the head.
Nurmagomedov chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Hendriksen can pounce on him.
Hendriksen jabs Nurmagomedov right on the nose. Nurmagomedov blinks but takes it well.
Hendriksen lands a nice looking body kick.
Hendriksen scores with a leg kick.
Hendriksen throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Hendriksen scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Hendriksen scores with a kick to the body.
Hendriksen throws a mid kick that lands with a slap.
Hendriksen scores with a kick to the body.
Hendriksen scores with a hook to the body. Nurmagomedov takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Nurmagomedov takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Morten Hendriksen is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#T3#
Hendriksen comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Hendriksen throws a front kick that sends Nurmagomedov stumbling back into the cage.
A jab lands there for Hendriksen.
Hendriksen fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Nurmagomedov has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Nice body kick from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen throws a mid kick that lands with a slap.
Nurmagomedov takes a jab right on the kisser.
A jab lands there for Hendriksen.
Nurmagomedov on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Hendriksen. Hendriksen obviously looking to wear him down.
Hendriksen has used his reach advantage pretty well so far tonight.
Hendriksen scores with a spinning back kick!
Hendriksen bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Nurmagomedov's head backwards.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Hendriksen looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Hendriksen is landing a lot of head punches in this opening round! Nurmagomedov had better start moving his head a bit unless he wants his face to turn into mush.
Nurmagomedov shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Hendriksen defends it nicely.#T4#
Nurmagomedov takes a shot to the body in his stride.
A solid body kick from Hendriksen.
Nurmagomedov takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Hendriksen dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Nurmagomedov looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Hendriksen only half commits to the counter leg kick.
Nurmagomedov takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Hendriksen throws a front kick that sends Nurmagomedov stumbling back into the cage.
Hendriksen fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Nurmagomedov looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Morten Hendriksen dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov'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#
Hendriksen feints and then cracks Nurmagomedov's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Nurmagomedov down.
A slapping body kick lands there for Hendriksen.
Hendriksen digs a good hook to Nurmagomedov's body.
Nurmagomedov on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Hendriksen. Hendriksen obviously looking to wear him down.
Good shot there by Hendriksen.
A left lands for Hendriksen.
Hendriksen slaps away a takedown attempt from Nurmagomedov, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Hendriksen lands with a kick to the ribs.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hendriksen thuds his shin into the meat of Nurmagomedov's side.
Hendriksen looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
A kick lands to the mid section there for Hendriksen.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Hendriksen lands with a nice body kick.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Hendriksen scores with a shot to the body.
Nurmagomedov will be looking to protect his midsection after taking some solid kicks to the body.#T1#
Nurmagomedov has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Hendriksen finds it's way round the side to connect with Nurmagomedov's head.
Nice cross by Hendriksen.
Hendriksen throws a nice inside leg kick.
Hendriksen with the inside leg kick.
Hendriksen is using his reach advantage to land shots from outside his opponent's range.
Hendriksen ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Hendriksen slips a jab from Nurmagomedov.
Hendriksen connects with a body shot that sends Nurmagomedov's belly button to the back.
A solid leg kick lands there for Hendriksen.
Hendriksen wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Nurmagomedov takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Hendriksen lunges at Nurmagomedov with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Nurmagomedov's hand.
Nurmagomedov takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Hendriksen buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick. #T2#
Crunch! Hendriksen slams his shin into Nurmagomedov's torso.
Hendriksen has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Hendriksen connects with a crisp jab.
Hendriksen throws a good cross that connects.
Hendriksen lets loose with a powerful body kick. Nurmagomedov will feel that in the morning.
That's a knee to de groin and it's over and out! Nurmagomedov crumples to the ground after an illegal strike from Hendriksen - the referee stops the clock and Nurmagomedov gets 5 minutes to recover from that one. "I'm sorry" says Hendriksen. Nurmagomedov manages to get back to his feet and the fight resumes.
Nurmagomedov has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Hendriksen finds it's way round the side to connect with Nurmagomedov's head.
Nurmagomedov goes for a double leg but Hendriksen avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Hendriksen continues to drive forward.
Hendriksen lands a body punch.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Hendriksen.
Hendriksen misses with a hook to the ribs.
Hendriksen lands an uppercut.
Hendriksen works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Hendriksen lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Nurmagomedov or not.
Hendriksen misses with a body punch. #T3#
A short left from Hendriksen.
A right handed body shot lands from Hendriksen.
Nurmagomedov wants to get back to striking at distance but Hendriksen won't allow it.
Nurmagomedov is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
The fighters are starting to get sweaty, which will make takedowns a bit more tricky.
Nurmagomedov has had enough of the clinch and is looking to separate.
A short uppercut from Hendriksen.
Nurmagomedov blocks a body shot from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Hendriksen lands a body punch in the clinch.
Hendriksen digs a right hand into Nurmagomedov's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Nurmagomedov's gas tank.
Hendriksen makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Hendriksen tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Nurmagomedov can't break the clinch.
Hendriksen lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Nurmagomedov.#T4#
A short right from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Nurmagomedov goes for a takedown in the clinch but Hendriksen prevents it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Khabib Nurmagomedov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Still in the clinch, Hendriksen scores with a nice short uppercut.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
A hook to the body from Hendriksen.
Nurmagomedov is trying to break the clinch but Hendriksen is controlling him.
Good body shot from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen lands a body punch.
A right hand to the body from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen lands a body punch in the clinch.
Hendriksen cracks Nurmagomedov with a nice body shot.
A short right from Hendriksen on the inside.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
A nice left hand lands by Hendriksen.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Morten Hendriksen showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Khabib Nurmagomedov'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. This is the final round!#R3#
Hendriksen connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Nurmagomedov shoots in and drives through. Hendriksen sprawls well.
Nurmagomedov walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Nurmagomedov on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Hendriksen throws a front kick that sends Nurmagomedov stumbling back into the cage.#CL#
Nurmagomedov rushes Hendriksen and presses him up against the cage.
Hendriksen pushes Nurmagomedov back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Hendriksen creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Morten Hendriksen seems to be working more effectively in the clinch in the fight so far.
Hendriksen lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Nurmagomedov or not.
Hendriksen scores with a nice hook to the head.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Hendriksen creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Hendriksen lands with a light punch inside.
A right hook to the body lands for Hendriksen.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Hendriksen works on Nurmagomedov's body with a couple of short punches.
Hendriksen lands a body punch. #T1#
Hendriksen is leaning against Nurmagomedov and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Hendriksen makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Hendriksen lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Hendriksen scores with a shoulder strike.
Hendriksen gets through Nurmagomedov's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Hendriksen lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Hendriksen pushes Nurmagomedov back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
A right handed body shot lands from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen lands a shoulder strike.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen digs a right hand underneath Nurmagomedov's ribcage. Nurmagomedov let out a lung full of air as it connected.
Hendriksen lands an uppercut.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Hendriksen lands with a light punch inside.
A shot in the inside from Hendriksen. #T2#
Nurmagomedov takes a shot to the head.
A right hook to the body lands for Hendriksen.
Hendriksen works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Hendriksen lands a shot to the body.
Hendriksen lands a left hand.
A short right from Hendriksen.
A short body shot lands from Hendriksen as the two fighters clinch.
A right handed body shot lands from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Hendriksen lands a hook to the side of the head.
Hendriksen lands with a left to the head.
Nice body punch from Hendriksen - that landed with a thud.
Hendriksen lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Hendriksen works on Nurmagomedov's body with a couple of short punches.#T3#
A short left from Hendriksen.
This is turning into a torrid day at the office for Nurmagomedov. He's trying desperately to land a takedown but he's failing miserably and getting slapped silly on the feet to compound his misery.
Hendriksen lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Nurmagomedov is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Hendriksen is defending well.
Hendriksen lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Hendriksen lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Nurmagomedov or not.
Nurmagomedov takes a shot to the head.
Hendriksen lands a left hand that snaps the head of Nurmagomedov backwards.
Hendriksen lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Hendriksen works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Hendriksen scores with a nice hook to the head.
Hendriksen lands an uppercut.
Hendriksen lands a body punch.
Nurmagomedov takes a shot to the head. #T4#
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Hendriksen lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Nurmagomedov's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Nurmagomedov has had enough of the clinch and is looking to separate.
Hendriksen softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
A right hand to the body from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen lands with a short punch from the clinch.
A short uppercut from Hendriksen.
Hendriksen scores with a hook to the body.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Hendriksen cracks Nurmagomedov with a nice body shot.
Hendriksen lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
A nice right hand lands inside from Hendriksen.
A hook to the body from Hendriksen.
A left hand lands to the body for Hendriksen.
Morten Hendriksen is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Hendriksen pushes Nurmagomedov back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.

And that's the end of the fight!
Morten Hendriksen comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Hendriksen 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 Johanna Lukiainen scores the fight 24:30
Judge Tarja Halkonen scores the fight 24:30
Judge Roosa Järviläinen scores the fight 24:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Morten Hendriksen!

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