Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: HFC 75:Standifer vs Leonidas
Date: Nov 25, 2023

#R1#
Gray gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily #TD2#
and Banik counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Gray has momentary wrist control but Banik slips an elbow through the middle.
My spies in Canucks Combat Club inform me that Banik has been getting involved in the gym's BJJ sparring sessions. Let's see whether that pays dividends!
Banik looking to pass the guard.
Gray has momentary wrist control but Banik slips an elbow through the middle.
Banik postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Banik is stalling in the full guard.
We've been hearing good reports from Gray's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Banik looking to pass the guard. #SUB#
Gray throws his legs up looking to secure a triangle. Oh, that looks pretty tight, I gotta say! Banik escapes and throws Gray's legs to the side, diving into side control!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik wants to control but Gray is keeping him busy.
Gray tries to bench press Banik off him but Banik keeps the position.
Gray regains half guard.#SUB#
Gray is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Banik pulls his head out easily. #T1##SUB#
Gray actively working from the bottom here.#SUB#
Gray is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Banik pulls his head out easily.
Banik content to control rather than advance. #SUB#
Gray has hold of a guillotine but he's not going to be able to crank on it really with only half guard, so it's no trouble for Banik. Oh but Gray has got full guard now! Oh boy! This one could be over very soon! Banik goes limp - he's gone! Gray jumps up and celebrates with the crowd - fantastic submission finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:40 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Kobe Gray!
A victorious Kobe Gray thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

Event: HFC 70
Date: Oct 21, 2023

#R1#
Hammer misses with a hook. Banik ducked under it nicely.
Banik lands with a straight right. Hammer didn't see that one coming.
Banik takes one to the chin there.#CUT#It looks like Branko Banik has been cut.
Hammer throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Hammer with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Banik is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Hammer.
Hammer keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Banik.
Hammer misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Banik.
Hammer works Banik's body with a nice hook.
Banik is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Hammer.
Hammer thuds a left hand into Banik's body.
Hammer lands a nice looking body shot.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
No joy there for Banik, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Hammer throws a body punch but Banik moves out of range.
Banik takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Hammer misses with a wild body shot.
Banik feints the counter takedown.
Hammer dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Hammer uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Banik.
A looping hook to the body misses from Banik. Hammer does a little dance to reset his feet.
Hammer is looking to counter with a shot to the body.#T1#
Hammer misses with a body shot.
Hammer connects with a jab.
Hammer is looking to wear down Banik with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Banik takes a body punch but keeps moving.
A shot to the liver by Hammer. Beautiful body shot.
Hammer misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Banik.
Hammer ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Banik moves away.
Hammer fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Banik manages to avoid it.
Hammer tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Banik was well out of range. Poor timing from Hammer.
Hammer swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Hammer throws a body shot but no joy.
Banik is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Hammer scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Banik misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Hammer.
A looping hook to the body misses from Hammer. Banik does a little dance to reset his feet.
Hammer just misses with a punch to the body.
Banik feints the counter takedown.
Banik feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Hammers jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
A looping hook to the body misses from Hammer. Banik does a little dance to reset his feet.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Hammer swings and misses with a hook to the body. #T2#
Good shot there by Hammer.
Hammer scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Hammer misses with an uppercut.
Banik takes a swing at Hammer's ribcage but misses.
Banik keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Hammer avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Hammer misses the shot to the body.
Hammer ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Banik moves away.
Banik throws a big shot that misses.
Banik tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Hammer was well out of range. Poor timing from Banik.
Banik slips under a jab from Hammer.
Hammer misses with a telegraphed body shot #TD2#
and Banik counters with a single leg into guard. Hammer didn't expect that.
Hammer is trying to keep Banik in close. #SUB#
Banik is sitting in close to Hammer's body. Hammer has gone for a guillotine from the bottom. Oh damn, that looks pretty tight! Banik is panicking - it looks like this one could be all over! Yes, Banik is tapping! That was a very nice submission by Hammer.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Chad Hammer!
Our winner, Chad Hammer, 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: HFC 65:Standifer vs Jung
Date: Sep 16, 2023

#R1##TD#
Kadurov shoots in and gets a takedown into Banik's guard.
Banik is trying to control the position but Kadurov postures up.
Kadurov landing some decent shots from guard.
Kadurov is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Kadurov lands a couple of digs.
Kadurov wants to pass the guard but Banik is keeping the position.
Banik 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.
Kadurov is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long. #T1#
Banik keeping moving, preventing Kadurov from controlling successfully.
Banik throws some sloppy strikes off his back.
Banik looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Kadurov looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Banik is fending him off so far but Kadurov persists. Nope, Banik circles away and we're back to standing.#TD#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Kadurov.
Banik wants to control but Kadurov postures up.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Banik is looking to regain half guard here but Kadurov keeps moving and retains side control. #T2#
Kadurov is maintaining the dominant position - no doubt Banik will start to get frustrated soon if he's not already.
You can see the frustration on Banik's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Banik tries to improve position but can't.
Banik throws a couple of punches but he's in a bad position and they don't land.
Banik wants to control but Kadurov postures up.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Kadurov is looking to take a break and control but Banik is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Banik misses with an elbow from the bottom.#T3#
Banik is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Kadurov lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face.
Banik is trying to escape the position but Kadurov is controlling the position.
Banik gets back to half guard.
Banik trying to control but Kadurov postures up.
Kadurov is keen to just control but Banik is a slippery customer.#SUB#
Kadurov is working for a submission of some sort.
Kadurov perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there. #T4#
Banik is looking to control Kadurov's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Banik avoid being mounted?
Banik misses with some strikes from the bottom. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Branko Banik seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Kadurov is trying hard to land a takedown here. Banik sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Kadurov gets cracked there but stands up to it.
Kadurov shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Banik as he avoids it easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Rustam Kadurov. That's going to take a lot out of him.#TD2#
Banik closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Kadurov tries to roll over but Banik keeps him under control.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Banik working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Banik missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Banik seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Rustam Kadurov will probably get the nod.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
A swing and a miss from Kadurov.
Banik takes a swing at Kadurov's ribcage but misses.
Kadurov scores with a nice strike.
Some wild striking there from Banik.
Kadurov fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Kadurov uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Banik.
Banik misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Kadurov.
Kadurov is trying hard to land a takedown here. Banik sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Banik misses with a hook.#TD2#
Banik shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik wants to control from the top but Kadurov keeps moving.
Banik stopping the sweep attempt from Kadurov.
Banik missing there with some ground and pound from the guard. #T1#
Banik throwing strikes but missing.
Banik throwing strikes but missing.
Banik won't allow Kadurov to sweep him here.
Kadurov is looking to stand up but Banik isn't so interested in that idea.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Kadurov lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR#
Banik keeping moving, preventing Kadurov from controlling successfully.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Banik trying to keep a closed guard but Kadurov is proving a slippery customer. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Rustam Kadurov overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Kadurov won't allow Banik to sweep him here.
Banik keeping moving, preventing Kadurov from controlling successfully.
Banik is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Kadurov is in close to Banik's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Kadurov throwing strikes but missing.
Kadurov throws a big elbow that misses. #T3#
Kadurov slips nicely into half guard, despite the strikes coming from Banik.
Banik blocking the ground and pound attempt from Kadurov.
Banik moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Kadurov stopping the sweep attempt from Banik.
Banik is pulling down on Kadurov's head. It's preventing any offense from Kadurov, at least for the moment.
Banik is trying to hold Kadurov in close to prevent damage but Kadurov has managed to pass into half guard.
Kadurov scoring with strikes to the body and head. #T4#
Banik is trying to maintain the position but Kadurov is very close to passing his half guard.
Kadurov lands strikes from half guard.
Banik is not content to let Kadurov control the position.
Banik punching from the bottom.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Banik trying to hold on to Kadurov's head to control him but Kadurov postures up.
Banik is staying active underneath Kadurov, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
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 Rustam Kadurov will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!#R3#
Kadurov lands a right hook to the body.
Kadurov takes a swing at Banik's ribcage but misses.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Kadurov.
Banik looks to score with a jab to the body but Kadurov is just out of range.
Banik drops his hands momentarily and Kadurov takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Kadurov misses with a wild combination.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Banik.
Kadurov changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Banik swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Banik misses with a straight right.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
The fighters circle momentarily. Kadurov darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
Kadurov is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Banik can do to turn this around?
Banik looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Kadurov looks to land a combination. Banik sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Banik scores with a jab to the body.
Banik takes one on the button.#T1#
A jab lands there for Kadurov.
Kadurov lands a right hook to the body.
Rustam Kadurov is winning the standup battle so far.
Kadurov keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Banik throws a right hand that Kadurov ducks under and follows up with a left that Kadurov also avoids with ease.
Kadurov half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Banik is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Kadurov rather than just go for the knockout.
Good standup being displayed there by Kadurov as he connects with a hook.
Banik shoots and misses
and Kadurov counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Banik thinking.
Banik misses with a looping left.
Kadurov scores with a punch to the head.
Kadurov swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Banik takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Kadurov looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Banik bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Kadurov's head backwards.
Kadurov misses with a looping left.
Banik feints the counter takedown.
The fighters circling - Kadurov throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Banik defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Kadurov.#T2#
Banik misses with a hook.
Banik misses with a hook.
Banik throws a jab but it's blocked by Kadurov.
Kadurov connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Banik's hands.
Banik jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Kadurov blocks a jab.#TD2#
Banik closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Banik landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Banik thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Kadurov's head.
Kadurov blocking the ground and pound attempt from Banik.
Kadurov keeping control of the leg, stopping his opponent passing to mount.
Kadurov tries to regain full guard. Instead though, Banik has advanced to mount. Uh oh.
Rustam Kadurov is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T3#
Banik throws a sloppy strike and Kadurov uses the opportunity to reverse the position! A bit of a scramble here and Kadurov has ended up in Banik's guard.
Banik looking to control.
Branko Banik has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Banik is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move. #REVB#
Kadurov keeping hold of Banik's head, controlling as best he can.
Banik throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage. #T4#
Banik wants to advance to full mount but Kadurov doesn't think that's going to happen and regains full guard instead.
Banik won't allow Kadurov to get back to his feet.
Banik stopping the sweep attempt from Kadurov.
Kadurov is working hard here to advance position.
Kadurov looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Banik puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard.
Kadurov wants to get back to full guard.
Banik lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears. #SUB2#
Banik is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Kadurov is just riding it out for now. Banik eventually gives up the hold. #SUB2#
Banik is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.

And that's the end of the fight!
That was a close round. You could make an argument for either fighter but I would give it to Rustam Kadurov.
Well Kadurov 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 Fedor Mirinova scores the fight 30:27
Judge Igor Prikhodko scores the fight 30:27
Judge Viktor Lagutenko scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Rustam Kadurov!
A loyal slave to those sponsorship dollars, Rustam Kadurov made sure he mentioned Champion Apparel, along with how happy he was to win his fight.

Event: HFC Fight Night 12
Date: Aug 24, 2023

#R1#
Gable lunges at Banik with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Banik's hand. #CUT#It looks like Branko Banik has been cut.
Banik throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Banik moves out of range as Gable strikes.
Gable avoids the body shot from Banik. #KD#
Gable throws a left that rocks Banik and follows with a right that sends him tumbling to the canvas! Gable dives into side control, looking to finish! Can Banik regain composure!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!#SUB#
Gable is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Banik has escaped the position, nice work there. #SUB#
Gable is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Banik has escaped the position, nice work there.
Banik is looking for a sweep.
Gable working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Banik takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Banik is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Gable off and has taken his back!
Gable trying to control but he's just got himself in more trouble.
Banik is landing with strikes. Gable can't take much more of this.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T1#
Banik throwing strikes from the back - he gets a warning from the referee for striking the back of the head but all these shots are hurting Gable! #CUT2#It looks like Daniel Gable has been cut.
Gable's coaches at Ludus Gladiatorius 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.
Gable staying busy and making it hard for Banik to control.
Banik punches Gable on the ear.
Gable tries to escape the position.
Banik is raining down hard shots and and Gable has had enough - he's tapped out due to the strikes!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:36 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Strikes). Branko Banik!
A loyal slave to those sponsorship dollars, Branko Banik made sure he mentioned BRAZEN - Fight Gear, along with how happy he was to win his fight.

Event: HFC 58: Kangee vs Burgess
Date: Jul 29, 2023

#R1#
Banik throws a predictable looking body shot
and Raynard counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Branko Banik seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A looping hook to the body misses from Banik. Raynard does a little dance to reset his feet.
Banik misses with a straight right. #TD#
Banik scores with a takedown into Raynard's guard.
Banik is fighting to break Raynard's control of his arms but Raynard is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
Banik has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Banik throws an elbow that misses. Raynard uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Banik's guard. Nice move by Raynard!#REVB#
Banik thows some rabbit punches from the bottom but they don't do any damage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Raynard slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.
Raynard trying to control but Banik is working from the bottom.
Banik has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Raynard has passed into side control. #T1#
Banik can't do much from the bottom here.
Banik is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Raynard's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Banik missing with punches from the bottom.
Raynard trying to control the action but Banik is working from the bottom.
Raynard prevents Banik from improving his position.
Banik is trying to control but can't. #T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Raynard wants to take a breather but Banik is having none of it.
Raynard wants to stand up but Banik has a hold of him and won't allow it.
Banik tries to roll over but Raynard keeps him under control.
Raynard not doing much here.
We've been hearing good reports from Banik's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Banik wants to improve his position but Raynard is controlling well.
Raynard is trying to control the action in half guard but Banik is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.#T3#
Raynard steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Banik.
Raynard tries to close the distance and clinch up but Banik swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Banik throws a body shot but no joy.
Raynard wants to clinch.
Banik jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Raynard throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range.
Raynard is looking to clinch.
Banik lands a nice shot to the body.
Raynard ducks under a wild hook from Banik.
Raynard moves to clinch but Banik breaks away #TD#
and Banik counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Raynard working a defensive guard but Banik manages to pass into side control anyway.
Banik grinds an elbow into Raynard's temple. #T4#
You can see the frustration on Raynard's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Banik wants to control but Raynard is keeping him busy.
Raynard is trying to get back to half guard.
Banik tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Banik throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
The referee asks Banik politely if he wouldn't mind getting on with it and actually doing something. Banik prefers to stall for the moment though.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Branko Banik dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Raynard throws a sloppy head kick and Banik moves out of range easily.
Banik attempts a counter takedown but Raynard avoids it well and moves away.
Raynard throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Banik misses with an uppercut #CL2#
and Raynard counters by clinching up.
Banik is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Raynard can do to turn this around?
Banik struggles to land a body shot inside as Raynard controls his hands.
Raynard stalling the fight.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Banik. #TD#
Banik turns his hips and lands a very nice judo throw into side control!
Banik is looking to take a break and control but Raynard is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Banik cracks Raynard with a big right hand but Raynard just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik grinds an elbow into Raynard's temple.
An elbow from Banik crashes against the mat.
Banik is looking to take a break and control but Raynard is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #T1#
Banik in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
Banik misses with the ground and pound.
Raynard taking punishment in the form of punches.
Raynard struggling a bit here.
Raynard is looking to reverse the position.
Banik working the ground and pound.
Banik trying to control the position but Raynard is working away.
Raynard wants to get back to his feet.#T2#
Banik in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
A lull in the action here.
Raynard is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.
Banik landing with strikes to the head and body from side control.
Raynard is not content to let Banik control the position.
Banik throwing strikes but missing, from side control. #T3#
Raynard is trying to control Banik's posture but Banik avoids it.
Banik grinds an elbow into Raynard's temple.
Raynard gets back to half guard.
Banik not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Banik looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Banik throwing shots but Raynard is blocking nicely.
Raynard pushes Banik off looking to stand but Banik dives back in and keeps control.
Raynard blocking the ground and pound attempt from Banik. #T4#
Banik scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Banik throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Banik is nestled in close to Raynard, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Banik lands a nice short elbow.
Banik is trying to control the action in half guard but Raynard is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Banik stops Raynard from getting back to his feet.
Raynard is refusing to be controlled, as Banik sits in half guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Banik not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Raynard is trying to control but can't.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Branko Banik dominated that second round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!#R3#
Banik missing with a left hand there. Raynard was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Banik throws out a loose jab but Raynard uses good head movement to avoid it.
Raynard only half commits to the counter leg kick.#TD#
Raynard gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Raynard wants to get back to his feet but he's too absorbed in his own little project and Banik manages to pass to side control. #REVB#
Branko Banik overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Raynard keeping control of the position.
Banik looks to land a strike but Raynard avoids it nicely and regains full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Raynard holds on and takes a little breather.
Raynard wants to stand but Banik is controlling the position. #T1#
Banik trying to control the position from guard on top but Raynard is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Raynard looking to hit a scissor sweep but Banik is one step ahead there.
Banik postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Raynard avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Banik keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Raynard's head.
Banik is looking to work some ground and pound but Raynard has wrist control.
Banik looking to pass the guard. #T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Banik works over Raynard with some ground and pound from guard.
Raynard trying to control the position.
Raynard is pulling down on Banik's head. It's preventing any offense from Banik, at least for the moment.
Banik with a flurry of punches that miss. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Banik throws a hook to the side of Raynard's head but Raynard sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Banik throws a right hand that misses
enabling Raynard to counter with a crisp jab.
Banik throws a hook but Raynard avoids it easily.#T3#
Banik throws a hook to the side of Raynard's head but Raynard sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Banik looks to throw the jab but Raynard is out of range.
Raynard looks for a takedown but Banik sprawls well.
Banik connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Marlon Raynard has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Raynard dives in and grabs Banik's left leg, looking for a takedown. Banik pushes down on Raynard's head and hops out.
Banik attempts a counter takedown but Raynard avoids it well and moves away.
Raynard shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Banik defends it nicely.
Branko Banik has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Marlon Raynard.
Raynard tries to clinch but Banik moves out of range.
Banik attempts a counter takedown but Raynard avoids it well and moves away.
Banik throws a body punch but Raynard moves out of range.
Banik throws a shot from downtown. Raynard moves away and avoids it.
Raynard has a takedown stuffed.#T4#
Banik misses with a hook.
Banik keeps the fight on the outside.
The fighters circling - Banik throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Banik throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Raynard slips a straight right by Banik.
Banik misses with a looping left.
Branko Banik is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#CL2#
Raynard clinches with his opponent.
Banik misses with a hook to the ribs. #BC2#
Raynard breaks from the clinch.
Raynard uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Banik.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Raynard tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Banik defends well and Raynard ends up having to push Banik into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Banik connects with a nice looking jab.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Raynard avoids the body shot from Banik.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Valeri Chadov scores the fight 30:27
Judge Aleksei Zolotukhin scores the fight 30:27
Judge Viktor Lagutenko scores the fight 30:27

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

Event: HFC 54:Kangee vs Apolo
Date: Jul 01, 2023

#R1#
Banik fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Nox avoids it really well and circles away.
Nox is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Nox misses with a hook.
Banik seems to be moving with more speed, compared to his last bout. He must have been working on that in the gym.
Banik misses with a takedown
and Nox counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Nox looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Banik changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Nox.
Nox throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Banik.
Nox connects with a single shot there.#T1#
Banik cracks Nox with a right hand to the side of the head.
Nox misses with a wild combination.
Banik throws a right and a left that both miss.
Good standup being displayed there by Banik as he connects with a hook.
Banik blocks a jab.
Banik misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nox.
The fighters circling - Nox throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Banik tries to counter with a takedown but Nox is quick to defend against it.
Banik looks to throw the jab but Nox is out of range. #T2#
Nox missing with a left hand there. Banik was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one. #CL#
Banik closes the distance and clinches.
Banik goes for a takedown in the clinch but Nox prevents it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Branko Banik. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Banik lands a hook to the side of the head.
Banik tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A short right from Banik.
The fighters are pressed against the cage, as the pace of the fight slows.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Banik is looking to take this one to the mat.#T3#
Come on Banik - let's have some action - none of this stalling nonsense.
Banik misses with the head strike. #BC2#
Nox breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
No joy there for Banik, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Nox is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.#CL#
Banik drives through and clinches with Nox against the cage. #BC2#
Nox manages to break the clinch.
Banik ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Nox moves away.
Nox throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Banik stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Nox fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss. #T4#
A nice combination there by Nox.
Banik throws a predictable looking body shot
and Nox cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Banik misses with a takedown
and Nox counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Nox misses the shot to the body.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.#TD#
Banik shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Banik showed some decent athleticism there.
Nox pushes Banik off looking to stand but Banik dives back in and keeps control.
Nox is trying to get back to full guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Colin Nox will probably get the nod.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R2#
Banik throws a predictable looking body shot
and Nox counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Nox darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Branko Banik seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Banik throws an overhand right that lands on Nox's shoulder, as Nox tries to avoid the shot.
Banik throws a body punch but Nox moves out of range.
Banik tries to bum rush Nox with a series of wild strikes but Nox uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Banik slips a jab from Nox.
Nox scores with a jab. Banik acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik throws a right hand that misses
enabling Nox to counter with a crisp jab.
Nox uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Banik.
Nox has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Nox misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Banik. #T1#
Banik misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Nox.
Colin Nox is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Banik misses with a left hand
and Nox counters with a straight right hand.
Banik throws a body punch but Nox moves out of range.
Banik is trying hard to land a takedown here. Nox sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Nox throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Banik looks to score with a jab to the body but Nox is just out of range.
Banik misses with an uppercut
and Nox makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Nox ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.#T2#
Banik on the wrong end of a nice jab.
Banik will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Banik misses with a hook to the body
and Nox counters with a nice uppercut.
Nox swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Nox scores with a jab to the jaw.
Nox staying out of range there.
Banik fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Banik goes for a double leg but Nox avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Nox continues to drive forward.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Branko Banik. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Banik tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked. #T3##BC2#
Nox breaks the clinch.
Nox throws the left hand but Banik avoids the punch easily.
Nox throws a nice looking combination but Banik bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Banik attempts a counter takedown but Nox avoids it well and moves away.
Nox 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.
Banik lands a jab to the nose.
Banik scores with a shot to the body.
Banik is looking to clinch but Nox is avoiding it.
Nox throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Nox has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Banik throws a right hand that Nox ducks under and follows up with a left that Nox also avoids with ease.
Nox unleashes a big counter combination but Banik bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
Banik throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Nox cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#T4#
Banik listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Nox throws a hook but Banik blocks it.
Nox takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Nox ducks right into an uppercut from Banik.
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!
Nox closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Banik lands with a straight right. Nox didn't see that one coming.
Colin Nox seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Nox throws a right hand that Banik ducks under and follows up with a left that Banik also avoids with ease.
Banik appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Banik.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Colin Nox showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action. The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!#R3#
Banik swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
and Nox counters with a straight right hand.
Banik misses with an uppercut.
A slow jab from Nox misses its intended target.
Banik appears to be looking for a counter takedown.#CL#
Banik takes the fight into the clinch. #BC#
Banik breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Nox avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik tries for a takedown but Nox circles away easily
and Nox cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Nice sprawl there from Nox as Banik shoots in.
Nox is looking for the big counter here.#T1#
A slow jab from Nox misses its intended target.
Banik drops down looking for a counter takedown but Nox sprawls and moves away.
Nox throws a right and a left that Banik avoids nicely.
Banik attempts a counter takedown but Nox avoids it well and moves away.
Banik uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Nox has time to react.
Banik looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Nox is fending him off so far but Banik persists. Nope, Nox circles away and we're back to standing.
Nox lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Branko Banik. That's going to take a lot out of him.#CL#
Banik rushes Nox and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Banik tries to work over Nox's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target. #BC2#
Nox breaks the clinch.
Banik throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Nox sees it coming and avoids it easily.#T2#
Banik takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Nox uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Banik.
Nox catches Banik with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Banik misses with an uppercut
and Nox cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Colin Nox is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Nox misses with a series of wild punches.
Nox slaps away a takedown attempt from Banik, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Nox uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Banik.
A little jabbing left from Nox on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.#T3#
A jab from Banik misses.
Banik is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Nox.
Banik keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Nox.
Banik half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Banik takes a swing at Nox's ribcage but misses.
Branko Banik has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Banik misses with a hook
and Nox counters with a stiff right hand.
Banik misses with a wild body shot.
Nox rushes in with a sloppy looking punch #TD#
and Banik counters with a takedown into side control.
Banik tries to score with some ground and pound. Nox controls his posture well this time though and the shots don't do any damage.
Banik fails to land a wild elbow strike. #T4#
Nox tries to escape but Banik is in control.
Nox tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Banik wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Banik scoring with punches and elbows.
Nox is trying to escape and get back to his feet.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Banik misses with an attempted head punch from side control.
Nox defending against the ground and pound.
Nox taking a bit of punishment here - Banik scoring with strikes.
This has been an exciting period of action!#SUB#
Banik is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Nox knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Nox tries to improve position but can't.

And that's the end of the fight!
That was a close round. You could make an argument for either fighter but I would give it to Branko Banik.
I think Nox 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 Vladimir Khabensky scores the fight 28:29
Judge Konstantin Menshow scores the fight 28:29
Judge Dmitry Maklakov scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Colin Nox!
A less than humble Colin Nox misjudged his post fight interview somewhat and came across a little too arrogant whilst trying to hype up his own abilities.

Event: HFC 52: Sidorov vs Chai
Date: Jun 10, 2023

#R1#
Kruglov lands with a kick to the ribs.
Kruglov connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Banik momentarily. #CUT2#It looks like Branko Banik has been cut.
Kruglov jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Kruglov thuds a left hand into Banik's body.
Kruglov lands a jab. Then a cross. Then finally a nice hook to the body. Good work there by Kruglov.
Kruglov lands a kick to the ribs of his opponent. Nice work there - in and out in a flash.
Banik uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Kruglov.
Banik tries to counter with a takedown but Kruglov is quick to defend against it.
Kruglov throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Banik on the side of the head.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Nice defenses there by Kruglov.
A big right from Banik misses.
Banik takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Kruglov jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Kruglov delivers a nice body kick.#T1#
Kruglov fails with an attempt to clinch.
Viktor Kruglov is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#CL2#
Kruglov closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Banik effectively controlling the action here.
A left hand lands to the body for Kruglov.
Banik is looking to take this one to the mat.
Kruglov lands a nice shot to the body.
Kruglov lands with a right to the head.
Kruglov goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Banik throws a punch but it's blocked by Kruglov. #TD#
Banik has picked Kruglov up - he's going for a ride! Banik dumps his opponent to the mat with a thud and settles into half guard.
We've been hearing good reports from Banik's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
Kruglov is controlling Banik's trapped leg to prevent Banik from advancing to side control.
Banik is nestled in close to Kruglov, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.#T2#
Kruglov tries to kick Banik off but Banik keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
Banik stalling.
Kruglov wants to get back to his feet.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Banik wants to control but Kruglov is keeping him busy.
Kruglov tries to roll over but Banik keeps him under control.
Banik missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Kruglov looks like he's trying to stand up.
Kruglov avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Banik. #T3#
Banik throwing shots but Kruglov is blocking nicely.
Banik slips a nice elbow through Kruglov's hands, connecting with Kruglov's forehead.
Banik wants to lay and pray for a moment but Kruglov keeps working.
Kruglov wants to control but Banik is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Banik throwing shots but Kruglov is blocking nicely.
Banik looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Kruglov pushes Banik off looking to stand but Banik dives back in and keeps control.
Kruglov is controlling Banik's position as best he can from this difficult position.
Kruglov wants to control but Banik is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Banik not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Kruglov scrambles, trying to get to his feet, but Banik manages to mount him! #T4#
Kruglov is in a horrible position here. Banik smacks him with another shot as he tries to escape the position.
Kruglov is in all sorts of trouble here.
Kruglov is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Banik controlling the pace for now.
Banik postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Kruglov looks a forlorn figure.
Banik in mount throwing good strikes here, bouncing his opponent's head off the canvas.
The referee warns Kruglov that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots 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!
Banik scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Kruglov?
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Viktor Kruglov will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Branko Banik'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#
Kruglov is looking to clinch but Banik is avoiding it.
Kruglov looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Banik appears to be looking for a counter takedown.#CL2#
Kruglov fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Banik, pushing him back against the cage.
Banik's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Banik'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.
Banik misses with a hook to the ribs.
Kruglov is pressed up against the cage. Banik has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Kruglov down to the mat. Kruglov avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik misses with a hook.
Kruglov counters with a body kick.
Banik misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Kruglov.
Viktor Kruglov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Kruglov missing with a left hand there. Banik was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Banik misses with a straight right. #T1#
Banik bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Kruglov's head backwards.#CL2#
Kruglov pushes Banik up against the cage in a clinch.
Kruglov scores with a shoulder strike.
Kruglov fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Kruglov goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Kruglov lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Still in the clinch, Kruglov scores with a nice short uppercut.
Banik wants to take the fight to the mat but Kruglov manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
Kruglov misses with the head strike.
Kruglov tries to work over Banik's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Kruglov looking to slow down the pace here.
Banik blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Kruglov lands a body punch. #T2#
Banik tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Kruglov lands a left hand.
Banik swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Kruglov is trying to slow down the pace in the clinch, to catch his breath.
Banik is working for takedown but Kruglov is calmly controlling the position for now.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Branko Banik. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Kruglov makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Banik looking for a takedown.
Banik drops down looking for an ankle pick but Kruglov pulls his leg out and moves away.
Kruglov has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#CL2#
Kruglov clinches with his opponent.
Banik is pushing Kruglov up against the cage, for a bit of lean and pray action. Action being used the in the loosest possible sense of the word.
Banik goes for a takedown in the clinch but Kruglov prevents it. #T3#
Banik tries a body shot but Kruglov blocks it.
Banik blocks an uppercut.
Kruglov content to slow the pace in the clinch.
Banik is trying to break free.
Kruglov blocking some punches.
Kruglov is stalling here.
Kruglov has a couple of punches blocked by Banik.
Banik is stalling here. #BC#
Banik breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance. #T4#
Banik misses with a hook to the body
and Kruglov counters with a body kick that stops Banik in his tracks momentarily.
Banik misses with a hook. Kruglov ducked under it nicely.
Banik sets himself, and Kruglov steps forward looking for the clinch! Banik avoids it this time.
Banik moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Banik swings for the body but Kruglov moves out of range.
Banik closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Kruglov throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Banik sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Kruglov thuds his shin into the meat of Banik's side.
Banik loads up on a big right hand but Kruglov slips the punch.
Kruglov stuffs the takedown.
Banik throws a hook but Kruglov blocks it.
Banik fails with the takedown
and Kruglov counters with a lovely straight right hand!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Viktor Kruglov showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Branko Banik's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!#R3##CL#
Banik pushes Kruglov up against the cage in a clinch.
Kruglov's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Kruglov is stalling here.
Kruglov misses with a body punch.
Kruglov lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Banik drops down looking for an ankle pick but Kruglov pulls his leg out and moves away.
Banik misses with an uppercut
and Kruglov counters with a straight right hand.
A decent looking cross lands there for Kruglov.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Banik doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Kruglov connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#CL2#
Kruglov fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Banik, pushing him back against the cage.#T1#
Banik changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Kruglov fights it off and pushes away nicely.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Branko Banik. That's going to take a lot out of him.
A punch lands to the side of Banik 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Kruglov misses with a few strikes there.
Donk. Banik catches Kruglov right on the button with a cross.
Kruglov pushes Banik away with a front kick.
Banik tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Kruglov was well out of range. Poor timing from Banik.
Banik sets himself, and Kruglov steps forward looking for the clinch! Banik avoids it this time.#CL#
Banik closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Some stalling of biblical proportions here from Kruglov.
Banik throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Kruglovs head.
Banik drops down looking for an ankle pick but Kruglov pulls his leg out and moves away. #T2#
Kruglov lands the left hand.
Kruglov tries to clinch there but Banik circles away.
Banik will be looking to protect his midsection after taking some solid kicks to the body.
Kruglov scores with a spinning back kick!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Kruglov pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Banik attempts a counter takedown but Kruglov avoids it well and moves away.
Banik takes a swing at Kruglov's ribcage but misses.
Kruglov throws a lazy right hand but Banik sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Banik shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Viktor Kruglov is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Kruglov connects with the punch.
Kruglov moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.#T3#
A lazy left from Kruglov finds it's target.
Kruglov scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Banik misses with an uppercut. Kruglov saw that one coming.
Banik avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Kruglov 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.
Branko Banik has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Kruglov tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Banik half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Kruglov connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Banik throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Kruglov counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Viktor Kruglov seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Kruglov slips a jab from Banik.
Banik missing with a left hand there. Kruglov was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one. #T4#
Banik tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Banik on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
A kick lands to the mid section there for Kruglov.
Banik takes a kick to the body and keeps moving.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Kruglov cracks Banik with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
A looping hook to the body misses from Banik. Kruglov does a little dance to reset his feet.
Banik takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it. #CL2#
Kruglov has taken the fight to the clinch.
Banik working aggressively here.
Banik tries to circle away but Kruglov has him pinned against the cage.
Kruglov lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Banik swings away with an uppercut that misses.

And that's the end of the fight!
Viktor Kruglov comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Kruglov 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 Konstantin Menshow scores the fight 27:30
Judge Viktor Lagutenko scores the fight 28:30
Judge Illya Tyunina scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Viktor Kruglov!
Viktor Kruglov was full of energy after the big win and talked about how he thinks he can do big things in this sport. The crowd were appreciative of his determination to succeed.

Event: HFC 48: Chenevert vs Kangee
Date: May 13, 2023

#R1#
Sloppy strikes from Thai. Those never looked like landing.
Thai lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Thai tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Banik manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Thai uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Banik.#CL2#
Thai instigates a clinch.
Banik effectively controlling the action here.
Thai lands a nice knee to the body.
A left hand lands to the body for Thai.
Banik is trying to slow down the pace in the clinch, to catch his breath.
Banik wants a takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Thai controlling the action here for a moment.
Thai missing with knees to the body.
Banik swings wildly with an uppercut but Thai uses good head movement to avoid it. #TD#
Banik gets the body lock takedown. After a quick scramble, Thai regains guard. #T1#
Banik postures up and lands a big shot to Thai's brow.
Banik slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Banik won't allow Thai to get back to his feet.
Thai pulls Banik in close to prevent any damage.
Banik throwing strikes but missing.
Thai wants to stand but Banik is controlling the position.
Thai 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.
Banik with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.#T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Banik wants to pass the guard but Thai is keeping the position.
Thai is looking to stand up but Banik isn't so interested in that idea.
Banik throws a big right hand that misses.
Thai keeping moving, preventing Banik from controlling successfully.
Thai looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.#ES2#
Thai has his feet on Banik's hips. He pushes off and gets to his feet. Nice work.
Thai looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Thai uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Banik.
Thai misses with a two punch combination.
Banik blocks a head kick by Thai.
Banik appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Thai with a nice looking leg kick. You could hear that one land in a back row.
Thai dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Banik. That did some damage!
Thai wants to clinch#TD#
and Banik counters with a nice double leg into guard. #T3##ES2#
Thai pushes Banik off and gets back to his feet.
Thai tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Thai lets loose with a powerful body kick. Banik will feel that in the morning.
Banik misses with an uppercut.
Thai displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Banik throws out the jab.
Thai tries a switch kick but it misses it's target. #CL2#
Thai takes the fight into the clinch.
Thai lands a body shot.
Thai is struggling to control the position.
Thai letting Banik take a breather here.
Thai tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Banik's elbow. #T4#
Banik lands a left hand.
The pace really dropping off here, momentarily.
Banik swings wildly with an uppercut but Thai uses good head movement to avoid it.
A short left from Thai.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
The fighters are starting to get sweaty, which will make takedowns a bit more tricky.
Thai throws an elbow but it's blocked.
Banik has Thai pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Thai manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Banik being controlled against the cage.
Thai pushes off an throws an elbow but Banik leans to the side and avoids it. We're back to clinching against the cage.
Thai scores a nice knee to the body.
The pace slowing considerably in the clinch, as Banik takes a break from that fighting nonsense to think about the finer things in life.
Banik throws a head punch that misses.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Taisto Thai dominated that round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R2#
Banik takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Banik ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Thai throws a head kick that misses.
Banik throws a hook to the side of Thai's head but Thai sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Thai throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Banik avoids the head kick by Thai.
Thai moves in looking to clinch but Banik pushes him off.
Thai throws a sloppy head kick #TD#
and Banik counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Thai!
Banik is looking to take a break and control but Thai is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Thai is looking to reverse the position.
Banik is moving around in side control but his primary objective seems to be to maintain the position.
Thai struggling a bit here.#T1#
Thai is trying to escape and get back to his feet.
Branko Banik overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Banik landing with strikes to the head and body from side control.
Banik working the body and head with strikes.
We've been hearing good reports from Banik's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
Banik grinds an elbow into Thai's temple.
Banik working the body and head with strikes.
Thai has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Banik working away.
Thai is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Banik has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Banik wants to control but Thai is keeping him busy.
Banik taking a breather here. #T2#
Banik working the strikes but Thai uses the opportunity to regain half guard.
Thai really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Banik. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Banik is trying to control the action in half guard but Thai is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Banik stops Thai from getting back to his feet.
Ground and pound from Banik.
Banik will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Thai wants to get back to his feet.
Banik trying to control from half guard but Thai is working away.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T3#
Banik scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Banik is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Thai is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Banik uses his free foot to push down on Thai's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Thai.
Thai is squirming around, avoiding Banik's attempts to control the action.
Banik 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.
Banik putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Banik looking to finish Thai with some ground and pound. This is bad for Thai!#ROC#Thai is rocked!
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Thai wants to get back to his feet.
Thai is still in real trouble! Can Banik finish him?
A big strike lands for Banik! That's really hurt Thai and he's turned his back - Banik keeps firing away and the ref dives in to stop the fight! Banik jumps to his feet to celebrate the victory!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:56 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Branko Banik!
A relieved looking Branko Banik thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.
Taisto Thai was interviewed post fight and said 'Back To the gym.. '.

Event: FFT Strikers Vs Grapplers R7
Date: Apr 15, 2023

#R1#
Harden shoots in but Banik avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Banik slips under a jab.
Banik seems to be moving with more speed, compared to his last bout. He must have been working on that in the gym.
Banik throws a right and a left that Harden avoids nicely.
Banik throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Banik misses the shot to the body.
Harden changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Harden gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily #TD#
and Banik counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Harden!
Harden wants to get back to his feet but Banik is dominant here and he's now got Harden's back!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik keeps control of the position as Harden tries to break free.
Banik is riding his opponent, not letting Harden buck him off.
The referee is taking a good look at Harden as he is on the wrong end of some big shots from Banik! #T1#
Banik lands a shot to the head.
Harden tries to escape but Banik has the hooks in and won't let him break free.
Banik scores with strikes from the back.
Banik trying to control momentarily.
Banik lands a shot to the body.
Harden can't escape the position.
Banik tries to get the hooks in deep but Harden pushed the leg off.
Harden 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.#T2#
Banik gets his hooks in and is throwing strikes.
Harden looking very determined here, making life difficult for Banik.
Harden grimaces as he takes a shot to the body.
Harden tries to escape the position.
Banik is landing with strikes from the back.
I really don't envy Harden right now.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Banik looking to soften up his opponent with punches.
Harden staying busy and making it hard for Banik to control.
Banik is riding his opponent, not letting Harden buck him off.
Banik connects with a couple of big shots that have Harden covering up! Oh, this looks bad for Harden! Banik fires away with several more unanswered shots and the referee has no choice but to step in! This one is aaaaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Branko Banik!
During a confident post fight interview, Branko Banik thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

Event: FFT Strikers Vs Grapplers R6
Date: Mar 31, 2023

#R1##TD#
Gracie shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Banik is trying to defend but Gracie finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Banik tries to strike from the bottom but it doesn't land.
Banik wants to control but Gracie is keeping busy and won't allow it. #SUB#
Gracie is working for a kimura but Banik is defending it quite comfortably.
Banik gets full guard.
Banik utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound. #SUB#
Gracie has gone for a leg lock! Banik slips out almost immediately though and dives into Gracie's guard.#REVB##SUB#
Gracie looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Gracie seems to have improved his submission grappling technique since last time we saw him. Let's see if he can pull off a submission.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Banik trying to control but Gracie is working from the bottom.
Banik slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.
Banik must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Banik working some strikes from top position.#T1#
Banik scoring with punches to the head and body.
Banik working some strikes from top position.#SUB#
Gracie is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Banik is aware though and is defending well.
Banik keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Gracie's head.#SUB#
Gracie is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Banik preventing the sweep.
My spies in Canucks Combat Club inform me that Banik has been getting involved in the gym's BJJ sparring sessions. Let's see whether that pays dividends!#SUB#
Gracie is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Banik lands a couple of digs.
Banik working some strikes from top position.
Banik is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Banik lands a couple of decent looking shots.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Banik stays in close to Gracie's body and controls the position.
Banik trying to control but Gracie is working from the bottom. #T2#
Banik chips away with some ground and pound.
Gracie has momentary wrist control but Banik slips an elbow through the middle.#SUB#
Gracie is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Banik is aware though and is defending well.#SUB#
Gracie is looking for a triangle but Banik pushes his legs off easily.
Banik is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long. #SUB#
Gracie throws his legs up looking for a submission but Banik uses it to pass to side control.
You can see the frustration on Gracie's face as Banik controls the position.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Gracie is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Banik landing with strikes to the head and body from side control.
Banik creates a bit of distance and throws down some hard shots.
Banik lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face. #T3#
Banik lands a nice forearm strike.
Gracie tries to bench press Banik off him but Banik keeps the position.
Banik working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
Banik trying to control the action but Gracie is working from the bottom.
Gracie is looking to regain half guard here but Banik keeps moving and retains side control.
Gracie is working hard here to advance position.
Banik is working Gracie over with some ground and pound from side control.
Banik is working Gracie over with some ground and pound from side control.
Gracie tries to buck Banik off but Banik is having none of it.
Gracie gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Banik lands a nice short elbow.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Gracie won't allow Banik to pass to mount.
Gracie tries to get to full guard but Banik has control of the leg.
Banik is nestled in close to Gracie, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.#T4#
Banik looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Gracie with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Banik is controlling the pace.
Gracie is looking to improve his position.
Gracie has hold of Banik's hands but Banik slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Banik 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.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nice strikes from Banik there. #ROC2#Gracie is rocked!
Banik trying to mount his opponent but Gracie defends it.
Oh Gracie is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Gracie seems to have got his legs back now.#SUB#
Gracie is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Banik pulls his head out easily.
Banik lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Gracie tries to get to full guard but Banik has control of the leg.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Branko Banik dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Gracie throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Banik's waist but Banik gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Gracie off to one side.
Banik with the counter takedown but Gracie avoids it easily.
Gracie fails to land the takedown.
Ethan Gracie is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Banik throws a lazy right hand but Gracie sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Gracie uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Banik.
A swing and a miss from Banik.
Gracie on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Gracie takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Nice sprawl there from Banik as Gracie shoots in.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ethan Gracie. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Gracie fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Banik with the counter takedown but Gracie avoids it easily.#TD2#
Banik bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Banik working the ground and pound.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Banik working the ground and pound.
Banik content to control the pace. The referee will try and keep them active though.
Gracie is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.#T1#
Banik lands strikes from half guard.
Gracie has hold of Banik's hands but Banik slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.#SUB#
Gracie is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Banik pulls his head out easily.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Banik lands a nice short elbow.
Banik trying to control from half guard but Gracie is working away. #SUB#
Gracie looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Gracie has a hand on Banik's thigh, trying to get back to full guard. Banik takes advantage of the position though and mounts him!
Gracie working to try and regain half guard.
Banik working the ground and pound effectively.
Banik looking to finish Gracie with some ground and pound. This is bad for Gracie!
Banik controlling the position easily from mount. #T2#
Banik looking to finish Gracie with some ground and pound. This is bad for Gracie!
Banik tries to control but Gracie wriggling away.
Banik landing strikes from the mount.
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!
Gracie keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Banik scoring with strikes but Gracie is staying in there.
Banik landing punches.
Banik prevents Gracie from getting the reversal.
Banik unloads with some vicious shots from mount and Gracie wants out - he looks towards the referee who steps in to save him! Banik celebrates on the cage and the crowd goes wild!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:59 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Branko Banik!
An out of breath Branko Banik thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.
The defeated Ethan Gracie had this to say: 'Four losses in a row. Not a good look for me man. Don't know whats next to be honest.'.

Event: FFT Strikers Vs Grapplers R5
Date: Mar 15, 2023

#R1#
Banik misses with an uppercut
and Knight counters with a stiff right hand.
Banik will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Knight takes a swing at Banik's ribcage but misses.
Banik appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Banik misses with a body shot
and Knight counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Banik thinking.
Banik dodges the punch combination from Knight.
Banik changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Knight darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Knight scores with a jab to the head.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Knight lands a jab to Banik's midsection.
Knight cracks a nice hook into Banik's ribs.
Knight falls off balance throwing a combination #TD#
and Banik counters with a nice double leg into guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Banik trying to control but Knight is working from the bottom.
Knight looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.#T1#
Knight utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Knight keeping moving, preventing Banik from controlling successfully.
Knight managing to control the position.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Knight can do anything to dispel that myth.
Banik won't allow Knight to sweep him here.
Knight manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Banik manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
We've been hearing good reports from Banik's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
Banik punching to the body, from the bottom. #T2#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Banik is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move. #REVR#
Banik is trying to control. Knight wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Knight is controlling Banik's trapped leg to prevent Banik from advancing to side control.
Knight works his way to full guard. Good work.
Knight is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Banik is in close to Knight's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Knight seems keen to control Banik's posture.
Let's hope that Knight 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.#T3#
Banik working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Banik throws a big elbow that misses.
Knight pulls Banik in close to prevent any damage.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Banik throwing strikes but missing.
Banik throws a strike but Knight rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVB#
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Banik manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Knight manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR##T4#
Knight pulls Banik in close to his closed guard and prevents Banik from doing any damage or advancing position.
Knight 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.
Knight pulls Banik in close to prevent any damage.
Banik stops Knight from standing up.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Banik throws a big elbow that misses.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Banik is looking to work some ground and pound but Knight has wrist control.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Terrell Knight dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Banik throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Knight has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Knight works Banik's body with a nice hook.
Knight misses with an uppercut.
Knight looks to land a combination but Banik avoids it well.
Banik ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Knight moves away.
Knight misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Banik attempts a counter takedown but Knight avoids it well and moves away.
Banik tries to clinch up but Knight circles away and keeps his distance.
Terrell Knight seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Banik closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Banik takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Knight looks to score with a jab to the body but Banik is just out of range.
Knight looks to score with a jab to the body but Banik is just out of range.
Banik staying out of range there.
Banik throws a right hand that misses
enabling Knight to counter with a crisp jab. #T1#
Banik uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Knight.
Knight uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Banik.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Banik.
Banik has his hands up protecting his head but a hook from Knight finds it's way round the side to connect with Banik's head.
A big right from Knight misses.
Knight looks to land a right hand but Banik moved out of range.
Knight throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Banik stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Knight uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Banik.
Banik uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Knight.
Knight throws a lazy right hand but Banik sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Knight throws a body shot but no joy.
Banik moves out of range as Knight strikes.
Knight lands a jab to the head. #T2#
Banik steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Knight.
Knight misses with a jab to the body #TD#
and Banik counters with a single leg into guard. Knight didn't expect that.
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!
Banik is looking to work some ground and pound but Knight has wrist control.
Banik loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Knight wants to sweep here but Banik controlling him for the moment.
Banik working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Banik pushes down on Knight's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Banik trying to pass the guard but Knight defending well.
Banik 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.
Knight avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Banik. #T3#
Banik lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Banik sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Knight defending well though.
Knight is doing well to control the position and prevent Banik from advancing to side control.
Branko Banik overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Knight trying to control here.
Banik is trying to control the action in half guard but Knight is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Banik 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.
Knight wants to improve his position but Banik is controlling well.
Knight trying to control here.
Banik is trying to control. Knight wants to improve his position but can't escape this time. #T4#
Knight tries to get to full guard but Banik has control of the leg.
Banik is looking to stall here but Knight recovers full guard.
Banik in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Banik trying to control the position from guard on top but Knight is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Banik being controlled here momentarily. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Banik tries to clinch up but Knight circles away and keeps his distance.
Knight throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Terrell Knight showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action. Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!#R3#
Knight throws a hook to the side of Banik's head but Banik sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Banik drops his hands momentarily and Knight takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
No joy there for Knight, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Knight misses the shot to the body.
Knight lands with a straight right. Banik didn't see that one coming.
Terrell Knight seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Banik takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Knight jabs Banik right on the nose. Banik blinks but takes it well.
Banik connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Banik just misses with a punch to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Knight fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Banik looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Banik shoots in looking for a takedown but Knight manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Banik's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Knight's corner calls for a 1-2. Knight obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Knight throws a body punch but Banik moves out of range. #T1#
Knight throws a hook but Banik blocks it.
Banik feinted with a counter takedown.
Knight stalks Banik and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Banik's face. Banik staggers backwards, shaken.
Banik throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Knight cracks Banik with a right hand to the side of the head.
Nice straight punches there by Knight. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Knight.
Knight looks to score with a jab to the body but Banik is just out of range.
Knight connects with a body shot.
Banik ducks right into an uppercut from Knight.
Knight throws a shot from downtown. Banik moves away and avoids it.
Banik throws a nice looking combination but Knight bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Knight lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Knight goes for a double leg but Banik avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Banik continues to drive forward.#T2#
Banik misses the body punch
and Banik takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Banik is looking to clinch.
A nice side step and Knight releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Knight pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Knight has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Knight there as he acknowledges the shot.
Knight lands a glancing blow to the side of Banik's head.
Banik throws a hook but Knight avoids it easily.
Knight darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Banik gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Knight connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
A telegraphed right hand from Banik misses the target.
A jab from Knight misses. #T3#
Nice takedown defense from Banik. No joy for Knight on that attempt.
Knight connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Banik's hands.
Banik avoids the body shot from Knight.
Banik changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Knight tries to avoid it but Banik manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Knight to the ground. Knight escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
It seemed like Knight was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Branko Banik. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Knight swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Banik.
Banik slips a jab from Knight.
Branko Banik has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Banik sizes up Knight with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Banik misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Knight.
Knight doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Knight lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Banik circles away quickly and effectively.
Banik throws a shot to the body.
Knight lands a lovely overhand right.#CL#
Banik pushes Knight up against the cage in a clinch.#T4#
Knight stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Banik misses with a hook to the ribs.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Knight lands an uppercut.
Knight is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Knight misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Banik drops to a knee looking for a takedown but Knight gets the underhooks and prevents it.
Terrell Knight is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
A hook to the body from Knight.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Knight blocking some punches.
Banik blocks a body shot from Knight.
Banik throws a head punch that misses.
Banik is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Knight is keeping busy.
Banik misses with a punch to the body.
Banik misses with a punch on the inside.

And that's the end of the fight!
Terrell Knight comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Knight 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 Sosuke Kotani scores the fight 27:30
Judge Shigeki Fujiwara scores the fight 27:30
Judge Shigeki Sano scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Terrell Knight!
A victorious Terrell Knight thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

Event: FFT Strikers Vs Grapplers R4
Date: Feb 23, 2023

#R1#
Axelsen lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.#CL#
Banik closes the distance and clinches. #BC2#
Axelsen breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Branko Banik seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Banik misses with a right hand
and Axelsen connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Banik on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Axelsen swings widly with a right hand #TD#
and Banik counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Banik stays in close to Axelsen's body and controls the position.
Banik throwing strikes from guard but Axelsen blocks nicely.
Banik 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.
Axelsen tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Banik scoring with some ground and pound.
Banik passes easily into side control. Nice work.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Axelsen tries to bench press Banik off him but Banik keeps the position. #T1#
Axelsen parries the strikes from Banik easily there. Banik is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Axelsen to escape.
Banik throwing shots but missing, from side control.
Banik in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Axelsen is trying to work for a sweep but Banik has mounted him!
Axelsen tries to lock up and control but Banik gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Axelsen takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
Banik breaks from Axelsen's wrist control and lands an elbow.
Banik is in the full mount, landing strikes.
Banik landing punches.
Banik landing strikes, looking to finish!
Banik controlling from the full mount.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Banik working the ground and pound effectively.
Banik with good strikes from the mount here!
We've been hearing good reports from Banik's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
Axelsen is looking to get to half guard.
Banik avoids the attempt from Axelsen to control.#T2#
Banik takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Banik is still in mount, landing shots to his trapped opponent. Axelsen can't stay in a position like this for much longer.
Banik landing strikes, looking to finish!
Banik tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
Banik with a couple of short strikes.
Banik scores with a couple of good head shots there.
Banik is still in mount, landing shots to his trapped opponent. Axelsen can't stay in a position like this for much longer.
Banik is landing with some decent strikes but Axelsen is trying to advance his position so the referee is letting the fight continue.
Axelsen is looking to improve his position but Banik isn't that keen on the idea.
Banik scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Axelsen?
Banik controlling from the full mount.
Axelsen taking shots to the head.
Axelsen tries to hold on but Banik pushes him away. #T3#
Axelsen is in all sorts of trouble here.
Banik lands a couple of good shots and Axelsen has given up his back, trying to escape the position!
So, who will make the next big move? In this position it could be crucial.
Banik lands shots from the back.
Axelsen looking very determined here, making life difficult for Banik.
Banik throwing strikes from the back - he gets a warning from the referee for striking the back of the head but all these shots are hurting Axelsen!
Axelsen looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Banik is not going to allow Axelsen to sit and survive in this position.
Banik controlling from the back.
Banik loading up with punches from the back mount - how long can Axelsen hold on?
Axelsen wants to escape the position.
Axelsen really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Banik. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.#T4#
Banik lands a punch that was close to the back of the head but the ref thinks it's OK.
Banik trying to control.
Axelsen covers up after that shot from Banik.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Banik has good solid back control here.
Axelsen wants to escape the position.
Banik cracks Axelsen with a big shot to body and one to the head - really punishing Axelsen from the back mount here, looking to soften him up.
Banik is landing with strikes. Axelsen can't take much more of this.
Banik wants to control but Axelsen is keeping busy.
Banik is landing with strikes. Axelsen can't take much more of this.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Banik lands punches and elbows.
Banik scores with some strikes to the side of the head there. Good, points scoring shots.
Banik keeps control of the position easily here as Axelsen tries to buck him off.
Axelsen just trying to survive but Banik is wriggling into a better position, looking to finish.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Branko Banik dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
Banik uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Axelsen.
Axelsen takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Banik ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Axelsen moves away.
Banik misses with an uppercut
and Axelsen counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Banik is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Axelsen can do to turn this around?
Axelsen ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Banik with a poor takedown
and Banik takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A looping hook to the body misses from Banik. Axelsen does a little dance to reset his feet.
Axelsen connects with a looping right hand.
Banik misses with a body shot. #T1#
Banik swings widly with a right hand
and Axelsen counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Banik misses with a hook
and Axelsen counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Banik misses with a takedown
enabling Axelsen to counter with a crisp jab.
Banik tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Axelsen was well out of range. Poor timing from Banik.
Axelsen throws out a counter right but Banik avoids it with no problem.
Banik throws an off balance right hand
letting Axelsen counter with a right hand.
Axelsen slips under a jab from Banik.
A nice side step and Axelsen releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Banik misses with a looping right.
A nice side step and Axelsen releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.#T2#
Banik throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Axelsen counters with a nice uppercut.
Banik takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Banik on the wrong end of a nice hook.
A jab from Axelsen finds it's way through Banik's defenses.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Banik misses with a shot to the body
and Axelsen counters with a straight right hand.
Banik blocks a jab.
Banik staying out of range there.
Banik misses with a body punch
and Axelsen counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#T3#
Axelsen lands a nice shot to the body.
Banik misses with a hook. Axelsen ducked under it nicely.
Axelsen scores with a nice strike.
Loke Axelsen seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Axelsen slips under a jab.
A little jabbing left from Axelsen on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Banik slips a jab from Axelsen.
Banik feinted with a counter takedown.
Banik misses with a right hand
and Banik takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Banik misses with a hook. Axelsen ducked under it nicely.
Banik throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Axelsen.
Axelsen now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Axelsen throws a right and a left that Banik avoids nicely. #T4#
Banik connects with a body shot.
Sloppy strikes from Axelsen. Those never looked like landing. #TD#
Banik gets a takedown into half guard.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Axelsen is trying to get back to full guard.
Banik scoring with strikes to the body and head.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Banik lands with a punch from half guard.
Banik thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Axelsen's head.
Axelsen won't allow Banik to pass to mount.
Banik not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Banik working over Axelsen with some ground and pound. Axelsen looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Loke Axelsen 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#
Axelsen ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Banik moves away from the strike by Axelsen.
Axelsen moves away from the strike by Banik.
Banik throws a lazy uppercut
and Axelsen connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Banik lands a really nice looking cross but Axelsen seems unphased.
Banik takes one on the chin but seems OK.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Axelsen keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Banik.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Axelsen! But no joy.
A looping hook to the body misses from Banik. Axelsen does a little dance to reset his feet.
Axelsen is looking for the big counter here.
Axelsen 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. #T1#
Banik has a takedown stuffed.
Banik just misses with a punch to the body.
Axelsen swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Axelsen 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.#TD#
Banik closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Banik lands in his opponent's guard.
Axelsen trying to keep a closed guard but Banik is proving a slippery customer.
Axelsen wants to sweep here but Banik controlling him for the moment.
Banik's corner is telling him to maintain position.
Banik connects with a couple of short punches.#T2#
Axelsen is adopting a defensive guard.
Axelsen's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.
Banik lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Axelsen keeping moving, preventing Banik from controlling successfully.
Banik is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Axelsen is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.
Banik stays in close to Axelsen's body and controls the position.
Banik scoring with punches to the head and body.
Banik looking to pass the guard.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Axelsen can do anything to dispel that myth.#T3#
Axelsen preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Axelsen seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
Banik missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Banik won't allow Axelsen to sweep him here.
Banik is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Banik postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Axelsen keeping moving, preventing Banik from controlling successfully.
Banik lands a couple of elbows.
Banik working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Banik with a nice head shot there.
Banik advances position into side control!
Check out the look on Banik's face as he threw that strike - that's one determined fighter!
Banik creates a bit of distance and throws down some hard shots.
Branko Banik overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#T4#
Axelsen trying his best to control but Banik has mounted him.
Axelsen is working to get back to half guard.
Banik landing strikes, looking to finish!
Axelsen working to try and regain half guard.
Banik lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Banik lands a couple of good shots and Axelsen has given up his back, trying to escape the position!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Banik connects with a big shot to the side of Axelsen's head.
Axelsen trying to control the hands but Banik breaks the grip.
Banik is controlling his opponent, waiting for an opportunity to finish.
Banik trying to control momentarily.
Banik keeps control of the position as Axelsen tries to break free.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ren Mimura scores the fight 29:28
Judge Shirou Masuda scores the fight 29:28
Judge Shigeki Fujiwara scores the fight 29:28

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

Event: FFT Strikers Vs Grapplers R3
Date: Feb 08, 2023

#R1##TD2#
Banik changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Griggs looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Griggs on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Griggs tries to get out of the position.
Banik creates a bit of distance and throws down some hard shots.
Griggs is looking to regain half guard here but Banik keeps moving and retains side control.
Banik working the ground and pound from side control.
Griggs is looking to work his way out of this bad position but Banik is controlling him well.
Banik landing a few strikes.
Griggs definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Banik working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
Banik slows the pace down.
Banik tries to move to mount but Griggs blocks the move with his legs.
Griggs tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Banik wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Griggs is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
My spies in Canucks Combat Club inform me that Banik has been getting involved in the gym's BJJ sparring sessions. Let's see whether that pays dividends!#T1#
Griggs wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!
Banik working away.
Banik slows the pace down.
Banik scores with punches from side control.
Griggs is working to avoid the ground and pound but Banik connects with a decent elbow.
Griggs knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Banik on the ground.
Banik scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Griggs to see if he's OK.
Banik lands a few punches from side control.
Griggs is trying to escape the position but Banik is controlling the position.
Banik scores with a couple of short elbows.
Banik scores with a couple of short elbows.
Griggs wants to control but Banik postures up.#T2#
Banik lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face. #ROC2#Griggs is rocked!
Griggs is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.
Griggs taking punishment in the form of punches.
Oh Griggs is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Griggs is working to avoid the ground and pound but Banik connects with a decent elbow.
Griggs is not content to let Banik control the position.
Banik working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Banik lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Griggs down.
Banik scoring with punches from side control.
Banik controls the position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
A big shot lands for Banik! That's hurt Griggs! Will he recover? Banik fires away with more strikes and the referee has to step in to stop the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Branko Banik!
A victorious Branko Banik thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

Event: FFT Strikers Vs Grapplers R2
Date: Jan 15, 2023

#R1#
Banik throws a poor cross that misses
and Banik takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Banik misses with a telegraphed body shot
and Axelsen cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Banik shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Axelsen connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Banik throws an off balance right hand
and Axelsen counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Banik throws an ugly left hook that misses
letting Axelsen counter with a right hand.
Banik throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik misses with a body shot
and Axelsen counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Axelsen avoids a punch combination nicely.
A nice side step and Axelsen releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Banik is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Axelsen. #T1##CL#
The fight moves into the clinch position.#BC2#
Axelsen pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Banik with a poor takedown
and Axelsen counters with a one-two to the body.
Banik misses with an uppercut. Axelsen saw that one coming.
A nice side step and Axelsen releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Banik closes the distance but Axelsen moves to the side
and Axelsen makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Banik with a poor takedown
and Axelsen counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Branko Banik. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Banik swings away with a body shot that misses
and Axelsen connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Banik tries to grapple but his opponent circles
and Axelsen counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Banik is breathing heavily.#T2#
Banik misses with a hook
and Axelsen counters with a straight right hand.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Banik throws a combination that misses
and Axelsen counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Banik throws a right hand that misses
and Axelsen connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.#CL#
Banik gets a clinch. #BC2#
Axelsen manages to break the clinch.
Banik throws a predictable looking body shot
and Axelsen connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Loke Axelsen is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Nice takedown defense from Axelsen. No joy for Banik on that attempt.
Banik swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Axelsen connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Banik moves to clinch but Axelsen breaks away
and Axelsen counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt. #T3#
Banik throws a predictable looking body shot
and Axelsen cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Banik swings away with a body shot that misses
letting Axelsen counter with a right hand.
Banik throws a lazy uppercut
and Axelsen counters with a stiff right hand.
Banik misses with a jab to the body
and Axelsen counters with a straight right hand.
Banik throws a lazy uppercut
enabling Axelsen to counter with a crisp jab.
Banik throws a sloppy body shot
and Axelsen counters with a nice uppercut.
Axelsen takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Banik misses with an uppercut
and Axelsen counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#T4#
Axelsen uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Banik.
Despite the aggression on Axelsen's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Banik misses with a hook
and Axelsen counters with a nice uppercut.
Banik looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Banik throws a poor cross that misses
and Axelsen cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Banik misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Axelsen.
Banik misses with a hook
and Banik takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Banik swings widly with a right hand
and Axelsen cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Banik swings widly with a right hand
and Axelsen counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Banik misses with a body shot
and Axelsen counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Banik misses with a right hand
and Axelsen counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Banik thinking.
Banik swings away with a body shot that misses
and Axelsen counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Loke Axelsen 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#
Banik has his takedown stuffed
and Axelsen counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Banik rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Axelsen counters with a nice uppercut.
Banik misses with a jab to the body
and Axelsen counters with a stiff right hand.
Axelsen looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Banik moves to clinch but Axelsen breaks away
and Axelsen counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Banik rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Axelsen counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Axelsen moves out of range as Banik strikes.
Axelsen lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.
Banik tries for a takedown but Axelsen circles away easily
and Axelsen cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#T1#
Banik throws a poor cross that misses
and Axelsen cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Banik throws a sloppy body shot
and Axelsen counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Banik misses with a lunging right hand #KD2#
and Axelsen counters with a crisp one two that drops Banik! Axelsen thinks about following him to the mat for a moment but instead steps back and waves Banik to his feet! Banik is in big trouble!#ROC2#Banik is rocked!
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Banik misses with a shot to the body
and Axelsen counters with a big right hand! Oh Banik is in trouble here! Axelsen follows up with more strikes and that's it! The ref has stopped it!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:28 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Loke Axelsen!
Loke Axelsen seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

Event: FFT Strikers Vs Grapplers R1
Date: Dec 18, 2022

#R1#
A kick lands to the mid section there for Nishiyama.#KD#
Nishiyama drops Banik with a beautiful combination! Banik stares up at his opponent, who ushers him back to his feet - Nishiyama is looking for the KO!#CUT#It looks like Branko Banik has been cut.
Banik on the wrong end of a nice low kick. He's acting like it's no big deal but he doesn't want to take many more of those.
Banik shoots for a double leg takedown but Nishiyama sprawls well. He's pushed Banik's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Nishiyama scores with a body shot.
Banik throws a lazy right hand but Nishiyama sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Nishiyama tries to counter by clinching up but Banik breaks away and moves out of range.
Nishiyama keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Banik.
Nishiyama misses with a head kick.
Nishiyama lands a leg kick that knocks Banik off balance momentarily.
Banik throws a jab but it's blocked by Nishiyama.
No joy there for Nishiyama, who threw a few shots but didn't land. #CL#
Nishiyama has taken the fight to the clinch.
A short right from Nishiyama on the inside.
Nishiyama is trying to pull guard but Banik turns him against the cage and we stay in the clinch.
Nishiyama is working Banik over against the cage.#BC#
Nishiyama pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.#CL#
Nishiyama closes the distance and pushes Banik back into the cage.#BC#
Nishiyama breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance. #T1#
Jab, jab by Nishiyama - just one landing.
Kurou Nishiyama seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nishiyama digs a good body shot into Banik's ribs.
A decent looking cross lands there for Nishiyama.
Nishiyama lands a leg kick that knocks Banik off balance momentarily.
Banik misses with a body shot.
Nishiyama throws a head kick but Banik moves out of range.
And Banik tries to counter it with a takedown but Nishiyama pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Nishiyama lands an overhand left. A wild punch that just about connected.#CL#
Nishiyama instigates a clinch.
Nishiyama lands a shot to the body.
Banik blocks an elbow strike.
Banik tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked. #BC#
Nishiyama manages to break the clinch.
Nishiyama definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Banik throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Nishiyama sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Nishiyama is looking for a counter combo.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Banik missing with a left hand there. Nishiyama was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Nishiyama doesn't manage to clinch there - Banik circles away.
Banik rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Nishiyama moves out of range and avoids them all easily.#T2#
Nishiyama moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Banik walks forward, straight into a front kick from Nishiyama.
Banik looks winded!
Banik throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Nishiyama looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.#CL#
Nishiyama drives through and clinches with Banik against the cage. #BC#
Nishiyama breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Banik takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Banik avoids the head kick by Nishiyama.
Banik is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Nishiyama.
Banik has done a lot of speed work in the buildup to this fight.#KD#
Oooooh!!! Nishiyama has knocked Banik down with a huge combo! Nishiyama steps away and waves a wobbly Banik back to his feet! This one might not go much longer!
Nishiyama connects with a right that clearly hurt Banik. He's backed up against the cage with nowhere to go as Nishiyama proceeds to tee off with vicious combinations till Banik collapses and taps out under the pressure!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:39 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Kurou Nishiyama!

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Oct 31, 2022

#R1#
Banik lands a right hook to the body.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Chingo.#TD2#
Banik throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Chingo tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Banik is in Chingo's guard.
Chingo wants to sweep here but Banik controlling him for the moment.
Banik stands up over Chingo, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Banik controls from within his opponent's guard.
Banik postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banik is stalling in the full guard. #T1#
Banik working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Banik chips away with some ground and pound.#SUB#
Chingo working for submissions but it's allowed Banik to get to half guard.
Well, if Banik 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.
Banik lands a big elbow - Chingo is out of it! He's waving his arms around but his eyes are closed and he's not intelligently defending himself - the ref has no choice but to jump in and stop the fight! This one is in the books! A TKO win for Banik!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Branko Banik!
After winning the bout, Branko Banik thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

Event: JohnDupe Nightclub Fight 9
Date: Oct 06, 2022

#R1#
Stuhe throws a looping overhand right but Banik ducks down to avoid it.
Banik wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Banik changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Stuhe tries to avoid it but Banik manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Stuhe to the ground. Stuhe escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Stuhe's coach down at Cozad MMA St Petersburg was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Stuhe's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.#CL#
Banik closes the distance and pushes Stuhe back into the cage.#TD2#
Stuhe gets a nice trip takedown into half guard.
Stuhe trying to control from Banik's half guard. Banik has other ideas though and has regained full guard.
Stuhe trying to control but Banik is working from the bottom.
Stuhe really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Banik. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Stuhe postures up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Stuhe throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Stuhe pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Banik is keeping the position for now.
Stuhe looking to sit in guard and control but Banik gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR##T1#
Banik slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.
Banik distracts Stuhe with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Banik sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Stuhe utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Banik works over Stuhe with some ground and pound from guard.
Stuhe keeping moving, preventing Banik from controlling successfully.
Banik loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Stuhe 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.
Banik looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.#T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Stuhe keeps trying to improve his position.
Banik slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Banik accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Stuhe can do anything to dispel that myth.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Banik lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Stuhe tries to strike from the bottom.
Banik is working Stuhe over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Banik throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Stuhe is trying to keep Banik in close. #T3#
Stuhe keeping moving, preventing Banik from controlling successfully.
Banik keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Stuhe's head.
Stuhe is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Stuhe is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.
Banik cracks Stuhe with a solid left hand.
Banik keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Stuhe's head.
Banik 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.
Stuhe looking to control but Banik passes into half guard.
Stuhe has a hand on Banik's thigh, trying to get back to full guard. Banik takes advantage of the position though and mounts him!
Banik with shots to the head and body - Stuhe looks very uncomfortable down there. #T4#
Banik wants to control the pace but Stuhe is squirming around nicely.
Banik breaks from Stuhe's wrist control and lands an elbow.
Stuhe is bucking up trying to escape but Banik cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
Banik scoring with strikes but Stuhe is staying in there.
Stuhe tries to lock up and control but Banik gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Banik with good strikes from the mount here!#ROC#Stuhe is rocked!
Banik loads up with a big shot that hurts Stuhe! He's pulled Banik in close but Banik has postured up and lands more strikes. Can Stuhe survive? More strikes from Banik and Stuhe is out! The ref jumps in to save him! Brutal ground and pound!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Branko Banik!
During a confident post fight interview, Branko Banik thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Sep 08, 2022

#R1#
Hammer throws a sloppy head kick and Banik moves out of range easily.
Banik misses with an uppercut. Hammer saw that one coming.
A head kick misses from Hammer.
Banik feinted with a counter takedown.
Banik throws a right and a left that Hammer avoids nicely.
Hammer throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.
Hammer throws a sloppy head kick and Banik moves out of range easily.
Banik changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.#TD#
Banik 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.
Banik working some strikes from top position.
Banik forces his way into half guard.
Hammer tries to regain full guard. Instead though, Banik has advanced to mount. Uh oh.
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!
Banik cracks Hammer with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena. #T1#
Banik content just to control the position here.
Hammer is wriggling around trying to escape.
Hammer is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
The referee warns Hammer that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head. #ROC#Hammer is rocked!
Banik working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Hammer is still in real trouble! Can Banik finish him?
Banik connects with a bit shot that sees Hammer covering up! More strikes from Banik and the referee jumps in to stop the fight! Banik is our winner by TKO!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:51 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Branko Banik!
Branko Banik decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

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