Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: C386: Tae vs Chai II
Date: Jan 19, 2025

#R1#
Spencer staying out of range there.
A quick step to the side and Spencer tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Novak punishes Spencer's body with a nice straight punch.#TD2#
Novak drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Novak throwing shots but missing, from side control.
Spencer is not content to let Novak control the position.
Novak scoring with punches and elbows.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sloppy strikes there by Novak.
Novak tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
The ground and pound from Novak seems to be hitting the mat more than his opponent.
Novak wants to control but Spencer is keeping him busy.
Spencer knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Novak on the ground.
Novak tries to advance to mount but Spencer denies him. #T1#
Novak looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Spencer is avoiding damage well.
Novak tries to score with some ground and pound. Spencer controls his posture well this time though and the shots don't do any damage.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Spencer dodges the ground and pound from Novak.
Spencer is working to avoid the ground and pound but Novak connects with a decent elbow.
Novak misses with a strike but at least he's keeping busy, looking to cause some damage - that will still help him when it comes to the judges scorecards.
Spencer holds on to Novak's head and controls the position momentarily.
Check out the look on Novak's face as he threw that strike - that's one determined fighter!
Novak misses with an attempted head punch from side control.
Spencer on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Spencer tries to get out of the position.
Novak in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
Novak postures up a little and throws a couple of hammerfists but they don't connect properly. #T2#
Novak wants to control but Spencer is keeping him busy.
Novak tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
Novak in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Novak advances nicely into full mount.
Novak trying to control but Spencer is having none of it.
Novak throws some wild stikes that Spencer manages to avoid easily.
Novak throws some wild stikes that Spencer manages to avoid easily.
Novak scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Spencer?
This has been an exciting period of action!
Spencer blocking the ground and pound.
Novak punching from mount but Spencer doing a good job of avoiding damage. #T3#
Spencer blocking the ground and pound.
Novak landing strikes, looking to finish!
Novak putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Spencer is breathing heavily.
Novak working Spencer over with strikes here. #ROC2#Spencer is rocked!
Novak trying to control but Spencer is having none of it.
Novak looking to finish with strikes here!
Novak punching from mount but Spencer doing a good job of avoiding damage.
Novak throwing sloppy strikes, which aren't doing any damage.
Novak throwing shots from mount but they're not landing. #T4#
Novak landing strikes from the mount.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Novak looking to ground and pound but Spencer is blocking nicely.
Novak trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Novak has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Spencer's face.
Novak thowing shots but they're missing.
Spencer in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
Novak is in the full mount, landing strikes.
Novak trying to control but Spencer is having none of it.
Novak lands a big elbow.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Alfonz Novak dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Novak lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Spencer takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Novak has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Spencer avoids the body shot from Novak.
Alfonz Novak seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Novak throws a predictable looking body shot
and Spencer connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Novak scores with a sloppy right hand. Spencer should have avoided that one.
Spencer avoids the body shot from Novak.
Novak has a takedown stuffed.
Novak paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Spencer looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Horrible takedown attempt by Novak or perhaps it was just good defense by Spencer, which made it look bad.
James Spencer has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Alfonz Novak.
Novak shoots in for a takedown but Spencer shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.#T1##CL2#
Novak gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Spencer trying to control the position but instead, Novak has worked for underhooks and has pushed Spencer into the cage.
Novak tries for a takedown but Spencer manages to get underhooks.
Spencer throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
Spencer misses with a hook to the ribs.
Novak drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it. #BC#
Spencer breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Novak wants to clinch up but Spencer keeps it at a distance.
Novak throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
A jab from Spencer misses.
Novak swings widly with a right hand
and Spencer makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Novak ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.#T2#
Novak looks for a takedown but Spencer sprawls well.
Spencer appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
James Spencer is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Novak swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Spencer swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Novak misses with a wild body shot.
Novak lands a body shot.
Novak fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
As Novak backs away, Spencer returns fire with a leg kick that just misses.
Spencer takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Spencer gets cracked there but stands up to it.
We've been told by Spencer's head coaches at Casa Steel that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Novak tries to clinch there but Spencer circles away.
Novak throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Spencer stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Novak is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Spencer rather than just go for the knockout.
Novak shoots in but no luck this time. #T3#
Novak shoots and misses
and Spencer counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Novak fails with an attempt to clinch.
Spencer is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Novak throws a body punch but Spencer moves out of range.
Spencer lifts his leg as if looking to counter with a high kick.
A slow jab from Spencer misses its intended target.
Novak drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Spencer defends it well.
Spencer slips a straight right by Novak.
Novak doesn't manage to clinch there - Spencer circles away.
Spencer swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Novak tries for a takedown but Spencer circles away easily
and Spencer counters with a nice body shot.
Spencer keeps the fight on the outside.
Spencer thumps Novak with a low kick.
Spencer avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Novak changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Spencer tries to avoid it but Novak manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Spencer to the ground. Spencer escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet. #T4#
Spencer tries a head kick but it misses.
Horrible takedown attempt by Novak or perhaps it was just good defense by Spencer, which made it look bad.
Spencer connects with a body shot.
Novak shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Spencer scores with a jab.
Novak has his takedown stuffed
and Spencer counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Novak thinking.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#CL2#
Novak rushes Spencer and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Spencer fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Novak has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Spencer avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
A short right from Spencer on the inside.
Spencer is leaning against Novak and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

James Spencer dominated that second round.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action. The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!#R3#
Novak swings widly with a right hand
and Spencer counters with a left to the body. #TD2#
Novak shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Novak has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Novak throws a big elbow that misses, also allowing Spencer to regain full guard.
Spencer keeping moving, preventing Novak from controlling successfully.
Spencer is pulling down on Novak's head to control his posture.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Spencer not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Spencer preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Novak loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry. #T1#
Novak throws a big right hand that misses.
Novak throws a big right hand that misses.
Novak tries to free his leg and advance position but Spencer is retaining full guard.
Novak keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Spencer's head.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Novak trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Novak throws a strike but Spencer rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVR#
Novak wants to sweep but no luck.
Novak pulls Spencer in close to his closed guard and prevents Spencer from doing any damage or advancing position.
Novak looking for a sweep. Not yet Novak, not yet. #T2#
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Novak is on top in guard. #REVB#
Novak trying to control but Spencer is working from the bottom.
Novak stands up over Spencer, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Spencer keeping moving, preventing Novak from controlling successfully.
Novak wants to pass the guard but Spencer is keeping the position.
Novak throws a big elbow that misses.
Novak looking to control the position here, rather than advance. #T3#
Novak landing with the ground and pound.
Novak not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Novak trying to control but Spencer is working from the bottom.
Novak controlling from the top position.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Novak accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand. #T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Novak makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Novak chips away with some ground and pound.
Novak wants to control from the top but Spencer keeps moving.
Novak working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Alfonz Novak has got the better of the ground game so far.
Novak with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Novak trying to control but Spencer is working from the bottom.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Novak postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Novak trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.

And that's the end of the fight!
Alfonz Novak comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Novak 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 Ryoma Takatsuka scores the fight 27:29
Judge Colin Fray scores the fight 27:29
Judge Micheangelo Fripello scores the fight 27:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Alfonz Novak!

Event: C380: Duran vs Spicoli III
Date: Jan 05, 2025

#R1#
Novak misses with a looping right.
Novak shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Bagrov pinned against the cage. Bagrov gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Bagrov drops down looking for a counter takedown but Novak sprawls and moves away.
Bagrov stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Bagrov wants it to stay on the feet.
Novak swings for the body but Bagrov moves out of range.
Novak shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Bagrov defends it nicely.
Bagrov attempts a counter takedown but Novak avoids it well and moves away.
Danila Bagrov has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Alfonz Novak.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#CL2#
Novak closes the distance and pushes Bagrov back into the cage.
Bagrov doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Novak tries to stall but Bagrov uses the opportunity to gain a better position. #T1#
Novak is trying to drag Bagrov to the mat but Bagrov just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Bagrov tries a body shot but Novak blocks it.
Novak prevents a body shot from Bagrov. #TD#
Bagrov gets the body lock takedown. After a quick scramble, Novak regains guard.
Novak not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Bagrov lands a couple of elbows.
Novak wants to sweep but no luck.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Bagrov scoring with punches to the head and body.
Bagrov makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Bagrov works over Novak with some ground and pound from guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Novak trying to control the position.
Novak manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Bagrov manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
Novak wants to control from the top but Bagrov keeps moving.
Novak working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage. #T2#
Bagrov has momentary wrist control but Novak slips an elbow through the middle.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Novak accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Bagrov trying to control the position here.
Novak trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Novak trying to control the position from guard on top but Bagrov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Novak throws a big elbow that misses.
Novak in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Bagrov working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Novak. #T3#
Novak wants to control from the top but Bagrov keeps moving.
Bagrov has control of Novak's left arm, preventing Novak from doing any damage.
Bagrov keeping full guard, as Novak tries to pass.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Bagrov holds on and takes a little breather.
Novak throws a strike but Bagrov rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVR#
Novak can't keep his opponent in guard - Bagrov advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Bagrov looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Bagrov winds up and cracks Novak with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Novak is pressing down on Bagrov's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.#T4#
Novak looking for a sweep. Not yet Novak, not yet.
Bagrov postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
We've been hearing that Bagrov has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Novak wants to sweep but no luck.
Bagrov stands up over Novak, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Bagrov works over Novak with some ground and pound from guard.
Novak looking to hit a scissor sweep but Bagrov is one step ahead there.
Novak has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Bagrov keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Novak's head.
Bagrov postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Bagrov wants to pass the guard but Novak is keeping the position.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Bagrov's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Bagrov content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Bagrov postures up and lands a big shot to Novak's brow.
Novak looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Danila Bagrov 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#
Novak scores with a crisp jab that stopped Bagrov in his tracks.
Novak tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Bagrov was well out of range. Poor timing from Novak.
Bagrov tries to counter with a takedown but Novak is quick to defend against it.#TD2#
Novak throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Bagrov tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Novak is in Bagrov's guard.
Novak in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Novak throwing strikes from guard but Bagrov blocks nicely.
Novak trying to control the position from guard on top but Bagrov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Bagrov lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVR#
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bagrov makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Novak is trying to control the position but Bagrov postures up.
Bagrov passes Novak's left leg - he's now in half guard.
Bagrov looks to score some points with some ground and pound.#T1#
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Bagrov lands a nice short elbow.
Novak regains full guard. Nicely done.
Novak has momentary wrist control but Bagrov slips an elbow through the middle.
Bagrov looking to pass the guard.
Novak lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Bagrov preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Novak is looking to work some ground and pound but Bagrov has wrist control.
Novak trying to control but Bagrov is working from the bottom.
Novak working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Novak throws a strike but Bagrov rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVR##T2#
Bagrov works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Novak wants to get back to full guard.
Bagrov winds up and cracks Novak with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Novak moves into full guard.
Bagrov is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Novak can do to turn this around?
Bagrov slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Bagrov cracks Novak with a big right hand but Novak just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Bagrov working the ground and pound from side control.
Novak is looking to regain half guard here but Bagrov keeps moving and retains side control.
Bagrov lands some shots froms side control.
Novak tries to bench press Bagrov off him but Bagrov keeps the position.
Bagrov lands a decent elbow from side control.
Bagrov lands a decent elbow from side control. #ROC#Novak is rocked!#T3#
Bagrov advances to full mount.
A big strike lands for Bagrov! That's really hurt Novak and he's turned his back - Bagrov keeps firing away and the ref dives in to stop the fight! Bagrov jumps to his feet to celebrate the victory!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:24 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Danila Bagrov!
Danila Bagrov thanked the fans post fight for their support.

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

#R1#
Novak doesn't manage to clinch there - Cabral circles away.
Novak tries to clinch up.#CL2#
Novak gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Cabral tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Novak tries for a takedown but Cabral manages to get underhooks. #BC#
Cabral breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat. #TD2#
Novak gets a double leg takedown into Cabral's guard.
Novak is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Novak throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Cabral works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Novak postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Cabral keeping moving, preventing Novak from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Novak is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound. #T1#
Novak wants to pass the guard but Cabral is keeping the position.
Novak wants to control from the top but Cabral keeps moving.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Novak wants to pass the guard but Cabral is keeping the position.
Novak throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Cabral works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Novak with a flurry of punches that miss.
Novak stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Cabral swivels though and keeps the full guard. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Cabral controlling the position.
Cabral working a defensive guard here. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Novak has been working on his takedowns a lot in the buildup to the fight and we can only assume he's going to look to take this to the mat.
A big right from Cabral misses.
Novak jabs at Cabral's body.
Novak looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Cabral is fending him off so far but Novak persists. Nope, Cabral circles away and we're back to standing.
Cabral swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Cabral looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.#TD2#
Novak closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Cabral quickly recovers to half guard.
Cabral trying to control from the bottom.
Nice strikes from Novak there.
Cabral regains full guard. Nicely done.
Novak loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Novak is looking to work some ground and pound but Cabral has wrist control.#T3#
Novak is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Cabral trying to keep a closed guard but Novak is proving a slippery customer.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Novak accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Novak in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Novak throws a big elbow that misses.
Novak wants to control from the top but Cabral keeps moving.
Novak missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Novak trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Novak works over Cabral with some ground and pound from guard.
Novak postures up.
Novak in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Novak has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.#T4#
Novak lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Novak missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Novak is working Cabral over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Novak is stalling in the full guard.
Novak throws a big right hand that misses.
Novak is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Novak throws a strike but Cabral rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVR#
Novak is looking to sweep but instead, Cabral has passed into half guard.
Cabral thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Novak's head.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cabral is looking to advance position but Novak won't allow it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Novak is pressing down on Cabral's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Alfonz Novak dominated that round.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.#R2#
Cabral does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.
Novak changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Novak scores with a jab to the head.
Alfonz Novak seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Cabral motions for Novak to come forward. Cabral throws a leg kick but it misses it's target. #CL2#
Novak darts in and clinches Cabral up against the cage.
Cabral misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Novak.
A real battle for position is taking place between these two warriors.
Cabral missing with knees to the body. #BC#
Cabral pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Cabral connects with a solid leg kick.
Novak tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Cabral defends well and Novak ends up having to push Cabral into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Novak throws a body punch but Cabral moves out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak lands with a good body shot.
Cabral goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
Cabral avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Novak connects with the punch.
Nice shot by Novak.#T1##CL2#
Novak has managed to clinch.
Novak wants a takedown.
Novak tries a knee to the head but Cabral blocks it. #BC#
Cabral pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Novak fails in his attempt to clinch.
Novak has a takedown stuffed.
Emberson Cabral has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Alfonz Novak.
Cabral fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Novak manages to avoid it.
Novak misses with a takedown attempt - Cabral sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Novak tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Novak has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#KD#
Cabral drops Novak with a hook right on the temple. He thinks about going to the ground but Novak looks back up at him and smiles so Cabral waves him back to his feet - he obviously thinks he can knock him out after that shot landed. #CUT#It looks like Alfonz Novak has been cut.
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!
Nice takedown defense from Cabral. No joy for Novak on that attempt.
Cabral throws a counter high kick but Novak was just alert enough to avoid it.
Cabral with the inside leg kick.
Novak throws a good cross that connects. #T2#
Novak tries to clinch but Cabral moves out of range.
Cabral looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Cabral tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Novak was well out of range. Poor timing from Cabral.
Novak pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Cabral tried to counter with a leg kick but Novak avoided it.
Novak blocks a jab.
Cabral misses with a head kick.
Emberson Cabral is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Novak shoots in and drives through. Cabral sprawls well.
Cabral circles away from the clinch attempt.
Cabral moves forwards but Novak connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Novak tries to clinch up but Cabral circles away and keeps his distance.
Cabral swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Novak jabs Cabral to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Nice defenses there by Novak.#CL2#
Novak instigates a clinch. #TD2#
Novak turns his back and goes for a hip toss. It's a bit messy but it gets the job done and Novak manages to end up in side control.
Novak lands an elbow.
Novak working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Alfonz Novak has got the better of the ground game so far.#T3#
Novak throws an elbow but Cabral slips to the side and avoids it well.
You can see the frustration on Cabral's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Cabral tries to bench press Novak off him but Novak keeps the position.
Novak fails to land a wild elbow strike.
What's Cabral going to do here then? He's in a bit of a pickle.
Novak grinds an elbow into Cabral's temple.
Cabral managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Novak.
Cabral struggling a bit here.
Cabral is in a bad position, trying to hold on for dear life but he is really struggling to maintain any sort of control.#T4#
Novak advances nicely into full mount.
Novak with the ground and pound from mount.
Novak looking to ground and pound but Cabral is blocking nicely.
Cabral is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Cabral really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Cabral tries to hold on but Novak postures up.
Novak working the ground and pound effectively. #CUT2#It looks like Emberson Cabral has been cut.
The crowd growing excited in anticipation of a finish here! Right on cue, Novak cracks his opponent with a massive right hand that draws loud cheers!
Cabral tries to hold on but Novak postures up.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Novak is in the full mount, landing strikes. #ROC2#Cabral is rocked!
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Alfonz Novak will probably get the nod - 10:9.
Both fighters have cut men working on them during the interval.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! This is the final round!#R3##CL2#
Novak moves into the clinch.#TD2#
Novak gets a trip takedown into half guard.
Novak drops an elbow to the side of Cabral's head.
Cabral keeps control of the position for the meantime.
Novak thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Cabral's head.
Cabral wants to improve his position but Novak is controlling well.
Novak thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Cabral trying to hold on to Novak's head to control him but Novak postures up.
Novak wants to take a breather but Cabral is having none of it. #T1#
Novak not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Novak working Cabral over with strikes.
Novak thows a huge punch but Cabral dodges it nicely.
Novak lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Cabral wants to improve his position but Novak is controlling well.
Cabral blocking the ground and pound attempt from Novak.
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Novak thows a huge punch but Cabral dodges it nicely.
Novak seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Cabral tries to get to full guard but Novak has control of the leg. #T2#
Cabral controlling the position for now.
Novak prevents Cabral from improving his position.
Emberson Cabral has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Novak winds up and cracks Cabral with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Novak connects with a nice short shot to Cabral's temple.
Novak working over Cabral with some ground and pound. Cabral looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Nice strikes from Novak there.
Cabral has his hands clasped together around Novak's back. He's all about the action.
Cabral trying to control but Novak postures up. #T3#
Novak is nestled in close to Cabral, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Cabral is not content to let Novak control the position.
Cabral regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Novak.
Cabral looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Novak wants to control from the top but Cabral keeps moving.
Cabral looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Novak puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard.
Novak thows a huge punch but Cabral dodges it nicely.
Novak is trying to control the action in half guard but Cabral is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #T4#
Cabral avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Novak.
Novak winds up and cracks Cabral with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Cabral is staying active underneath Novak, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Novak winds up and cracks Cabral with a swinging punch to the side of the head.
Novak wants to take a breather but Cabral is having none of it.
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Novak throwing shots but Cabral is blocking nicely.
Novak thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Cabral's head.
Cabral keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Cabral is looking to control Novak's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Cabral avoid being mounted?
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Novak throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Alfonz Novak is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Novak slows the pace down in half guard.

And that's the end of the fight!
Alfonz Novak comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Novak 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 Leandro Rodrigues scores the fight 27:30
Judge Matheus Silva scores the fight 27:30
Judge Emerson Jorge scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Alfonz Novak!

Event: C365: Fadda vs Dorado II
Date: Nov 24, 2024

#R1#
Novak changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Kirk has been working on his boxing with his coaches at The House Of Pain in the buildup to the fight.
Kirk throws a body kick despite being completely out of range#TD2#
and Novak counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Novak not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Novak postures up.
Novak postures up in Kirk's guard and throws a big left but Kirk blocks it.
Kirk is looking to stand up but Novak isn't so interested in that idea.
Kirk tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Novak throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Novak with a flurry of punches that miss.
Kirk on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Kirk tries to get out of the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Novak trying to control but Kirk is working from the bottom.
Novak tries to free his leg and advance position but Kirk is retaining full guard. #T1#
Novak stands up over Kirk, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Novak accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Novak is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Novak with a flurry of punches that miss.
Novak loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Kirk is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Novak is looking to work some ground and pound but Kirk has wrist control.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Novak accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Novak in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Novak trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Novak advances to half guard.
Novak lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt. #T2#
Novak lands strikes from half guard.
Novak is trying to control the action in half guard but Kirk is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Kirk wants to get back to his feet.
Novak content to control rather than advance.
Novak scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Novak has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Novak missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Kirk trying to control from the bottom.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Novak throwing shots but Kirk is blocking nicely.
Novak throwing shots but Kirk is blocking nicely. #T3#
Kirk trying to control but Novak postures up.
Novak lands with a punch from half guard.
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Novak drops an elbow to the side of Kirk's head.
Novak lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt. #ROC2#Kirk is rocked!
Kirk wants to improve his position but Novak is controlling well.
Novak slips a nice elbow through Kirk's hands, connecting with Kirk's forehead.
Novak wants to lay and pray for a moment but Kirk keeps working.
Novak is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position. #T4#
Novak takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Novak lands a nice short elbow.
Kirk knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Novak on the ground.
Novak is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Oh Kirk is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Novak missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Kirk seems to have got his legs back now.
Novak is nestled in close to Kirk, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Kirk is trying to stand up here but Novak is controlling him well.
Novak lands with a punch from half guard.
Kirk is staying active underneath Novak, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Kirk has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Novak is working away from the top position though.
Novak looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Kirk with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Alfonz Novak dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2##TD2#
Novak drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Novak preventing the sweep.
Novak scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Novak cracks Kirk with a solid left hand.
Novak with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Novak passes Kirk's left leg - he's now in half guard.
Novak missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Novak trying to control the action but Kirk is working from the bottom.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Novak sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Kirk defending well though.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Kirk is staying active underneath Novak, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Novak takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Novak not throwing his punches with enough precision this time. #T1#
Novak 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.
Novak looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Novak lands a nice short elbow.
Novak lands a massive shot from half guard that has rocked Kirk! More strikes land and this one is all over! Novak jumps to his feet and is applauded loudly by the crowd!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:33 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Alfonz Novak!
James Kirk spoke after the fight, saying 'KHAAAAAAN!'.

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

#R1##CL#
Novak closes the distance and clinches.
The referee calls for Kiwi to work.
Novak blocks a body shot from Kiwi.
The pace really dropping off here, momentarily.
A body shot lands from Kiwi.
We've been hearing reports that Novak has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Kiwi misses with a body punch.
Kiwi tries to work over Novak's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Kiwi lands with a short punch from the clinch. #BC#
Novak breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
A low kick from Kiwi misses #TD#
and Novak decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Kiwi's guard.
Novak working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Kiwi's head.
Kiwi preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Kiwi is looking to cinch up a triangle. Novak throws the leg off to one side though and gets in tight to Kiwi's body to avoid the submission. Kiwi has instead reached around Novak's neck and now has a guillotine! Oh, this is biiiig trouble! Kiwi arches his back and squeezes and forces the tap from his hapless opponent.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Bruce Kiwi!
Jumping up and down and very excited, Bruce Kiwi waved his t-shirt featuring Bloodbath MMA Clothing's logo in front of the cameras.

Event: RFL 11
Date: Sep 07, 2024

#R1#
Tae slips under a jab from Novak.
Tae throws a hook but Novak blocks it.#TD#
Novak shoots in and gets a takedown into Tae's guard.
Tae wants to sweep but no luck.
Tae looking to control. #SUB2#
Tae has his feet on Novak's thighs here. He's pushed Novak off and worked for a very quick armbar from the bottom! He's flipped onto his stomach and he's cranking hard on the arm! Novak screams in pain and taps out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:37 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Mabahong Tae!
Mabahong Tae 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: RFL 10
Date: Aug 24, 2024

#R1#
Thibodeaux stuffs the takedown.
The fight stays on the outside here - Novak looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Novak is trying hard to land a takedown here. Thibodeaux sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Novak throws a body shot but no joy. #CL#
Novak instigates a clinch.
Novak is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Thibodeaux pulls him back up using the underhooks.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Alfonz Novak. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Novak has had enough of the clinch and is looking to separate.
A body shot lands from Thibodeaux.
Novak wants to push off and get back to the center of the mat but Thibodeaux has him pressed against the cage.
Thibodeaux lands a right hand that snaps the head of Novak backwards.
Thibodeaux tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Novak's elbow.
Thibodeaux lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Novak or not.
We've been hearing reports that Novak has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Thibodeaux lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Thibodeaux is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Novak wants to take the fight to the mat but Thibodeaux manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
The fighters are pressed against the cage, as the pace of the fight slows.
Thibodeaux lands a hook to the body. It's hard to tell if that hurt Novak or not. #T1#
Thibodeaux avoiding damage as Novak throws knees to the body.
Novak goes for a takedown in the clinch but Thibodeaux prevents it.
Thibodeaux stops a takedown attempt from Novak.
A short uppercut from Thibodeaux. #BC2#
Thibodeaux pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Novak tries to clinch but Thibodeaux is having none of it.
Novak throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Thibodeaux turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Novak tries to clinch up but Thibodeaux circles away and keeps his distance.
Thibodeaux uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Novak. #TD#
Novak shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Thibodeaux's guard.
Thibodeaux is trying to control the position but Novak postures up.
Novak trying to control but Thibodeaux is working from the bottom.
Thibodeaux is adopting a defensive guard.
Thibodeaux looking for a sweep. Not yet Thibodeaux, not yet. #T2#
Novak is fighting to break Thibodeaux's control of his arms but Thibodeaux is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.#SUB2#
Thibodeaux looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Novak throwing strikes from guard but Thibodeaux blocks nicely.
Novak stops Thibodeaux from standing up.
Novak with a flurry of punches that miss.
Novak is working Thibodeaux over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Thibodeaux looking to hit a scissor sweep but Novak is one step ahead there.
Novak throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent. #T3#
Novak tries to free his leg and advance position but Thibodeaux is retaining full guard.
Novak 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.
Thibodeaux has momentary wrist control but Novak slips an elbow through the middle.
Novak scoring with punches to the head and body. #SUB2#
Novak got a little sloppy there for a moment and Thibodeaux has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Novak has managed to get both his arms back between Thibodeaux's legs - danger averted.
Thibodeaux pulls Novak in close to prevent any damage.
Thibodeaux wants to stand up but Novak is controlling him.
Thibodeaux is pulling down on Novak's head to control his posture.
Novak trying to control but Thibodeaux is working from the bottom. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.#T4#
There's not a lot going on here and the crowd are letting the fighters know they're not willing to tolerate a lack of action.
Novak misses the shot to the body. #TD#
Novak gets a takedown into half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Novak scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Thibodeaux blocking the ground and pound attempt from Novak.
Novak 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.
Thibodeaux tries to roll over but Novak keeps him under control.
Novak thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Thibodeaux trying to hold on to Novak's head to control him but Novak postures up.
Thibodeaux is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Novak scores with a couple of nice shots.
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 Alfonz Novak will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Novak dives in for a single leg takedown but Thibodeaux sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Novak wants to stall. #BC2#
Thibodeaux manages to break the clinch.
Alfonz Novak seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Novak fails to land the takedown.
Novak slips a jab and a cross from Thibodeaux. #CL#
Novak forces Thibodeaux back against the cage and clinches.
Novak can't get the takedown.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Alfonz Novak. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Thibodeaux prevents a takedown attempt there.
Thibodeaux stops a takedown attempt from Novak.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Thibodeaux wants to stall.
Thibodeaux lands with a short punch from the clinch. #BC2#
Thibodeaux escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Novak tries to clinch up.
Thibodeaux is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.#T1#
Thibodeaux ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Novak moves away.
Novak feinted with a counter takedown.
Novak misses with a takedown
and Thibodeaux counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Novak tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Thibodeaux swivels and escapes.
Novak fails with a takedown attempt.
Novak takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
August Thibodeaux is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Novak swings and misses with a hook to the body.
A good leg kick by Thibodeaux. #TD#
Novak scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Novak taking a breather here.
Alfonz Novak overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#T2#
Thibodeaux tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Novak wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Thibodeaux is trying to buck Novak off.
Thibodeaux can't do much from the bottom here.
Thibodeaux dodges the ground and pound from Novak.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Thibodeaux gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Thibodeaux keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Novak stalling away here and it's allowed Thibodeaux to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
Thibodeaux working a defensive guard here.
Thibodeaux wants to stand but Novak is controlling the position. #T3#
Novak throwing strikes but missing.
Novak 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.
Novak stops Thibodeaux from standing up. #ES2#
Thibodeaux has scooted to the edge of the canvas and used the cage to get back to his feet. Novak has stuck on his opponent and is forcing him back against the cage.
Novak wants a takedown.
Novak is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Thibodeaux lands a hook that snaps the head of Novak backwards.
Novak is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Thibodeaux pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Thibodeaux gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Novak.
Novak is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Thibodeaux is defending well for now.
Thibodeaux has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#BC2#
Thibodeaux breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance. #CL#
Novak has managed to clinch.
Novak is trying to break free.#T4#
Novak prevents a body shot from Thibodeaux.
Thibodeaux lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards. #BC2#
Thibodeaux breaks from the clinch.
Jab, jab by Thibodeaux - just one landing.
Thibodeaux throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Thibodeaux lands a nice looking body shot.
Thibodeaux bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Novak misses with a takedown attempt
and Thibodeaux counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Thibodeaux throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Novak gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Novak throws a hard body shot but it just misses. #TD#
Novak throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Thibodeaux was covering up waiting for the punch and Novak finishes the takedown easily into guard.
Thibodeaux not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Novak in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

August Thibodeaux showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. Let's get this one finished - here comes the final round!#R3#
Thibodeaux lands a body shot.
Thibodeaux misses with a right hand #TD#
and Novak counters with a nice double leg into half guard.
Thibodeaux taking some punishment here, with Novak in his half guard.
Novak trying to control from Thibodeaux's half guard. Thibodeaux has other ideas though and has regained full guard.
Thibodeaux controlling Novak's posture.
Thibodeaux is looking to stand up but Novak isn't so interested in that idea.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak wants to control from the top but Thibodeaux keeps moving. #T1#
Novak trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Novak's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Thibodeaux is pulling down on Novak's head to control his posture.
Thibodeaux looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Thibodeaux working a defensive guard here.
Novak trying to control the position from guard on top but Thibodeaux is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Novak looking to pass the guard.
Novak with a flurry of punches that miss. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.#T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Thibodeaux fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Novak.
Thibodeaux swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Thibodeaux throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Novak fails to land the takedown.
Thibodeaux tries to work over Novak's front leg with a kick but Novak checks it.
Thibodeaux tests Novak's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Thibodeaux leaves Novak with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Thibodeaux swats away the attempt to clinch by Novak.
Thibodeaux is looking to chop away at Novak's legs.
Novak tries to clinch up but Thibodeaux circles away and keeps his distance.
Novak closes the distance and clinches up with Thibodeaux, looking for a takedown. Novak pushes Thibodeaux against the cage but Thibodeaux circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Alfonz Novak. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Novak tries to clinch there but Thibodeaux circles away.
Novak moves out of the way of the counter high kick fromThibodeaux.
Nice sprawl there from Thibodeaux as Novak shoots in.
Thibodeaux lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.#T3#
Thibodeaux misses with a body shot.
Novak avoids a low kick by using good footwork.
Thibodeaux lands with a good body shot.
Novak misses with a takedown attempt
and Thibodeaux connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Thibodeaux displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Novak.
Novak swings away with a body shot that misses
and Thibodeaux connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Thibodeaux takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Thibodeaux scores with a leg kick.
Thibodeaux fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Novak looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Novak takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Novak tries to score a power double leg takedown but Thibodeaux sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Novak somewhat.
Thibodeaux missing with a left hand there. Novak was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Thibodeaux scores with a punch to the head.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Novak tries to close the distance and clinch but Thibodeaux swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away. #T4#
Novak takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Novak closes the distance looking to clinch
and Thibodeaux counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Novak shoots for a takedown but Thibodeaux saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
August Thibodeaux seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Thibodeaux fails to land with a series of punches.
Thibodeaux lands with a shot to the body.
Thibodeaux throws a body shot but no joy.
Novak fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Thibodeaux manages to avoid it.
Novak darts in trying to clinch
and Thibodeaux counters with a leg kick.
A shot to the liver by Thibodeaux. Beautiful body shot.
Thibodeaux has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Thibodeaux swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Thibodeaux throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Novak stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Novak has a takedown stuffed.

And that's the end of the fight!
August Thibodeaux comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Thibodeaux 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 Ian Loll scores the fight 28:29
Judge Elvis Blanc scores the fight 28:29
Judge William Peck scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... August Thibodeaux!

Event: RFL 8.2
Date: Aug 03, 2024

#R1##TD#
Novak shoots in and gets a takedown into Moghadam's guard.
Novak postures up in Moghadam's guard and throws a big left but Moghadam blocks it.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Moghadam can do anything to dispel that myth.
Novak controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Novak wants to control from the top but Moghadam keeps moving.
Novak with a flurry of punches that miss.
Novak throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Moghadam works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Novak trying to control the position from guard on top but Moghadam is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Moghadam has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Moghadam's guard.
Novak is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.#T1#
Novak missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Moghadam is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Novak scores with a couple of nice shots.
Moghadam is trying to maintain the position but Novak is very close to passing his half guard.
We've been hearing good reports from Novak'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.
Novak lands strikes from half guard.
Novak not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Moghadam blocking the ground and pound attempt from Novak.
Novak sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Moghadam defending well though.
Moghadam keeping control of the position.
Moghadam is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Novak scores with a couple of nice shots.#T2#
Novak sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Moghadam defending well though.
Moghadam is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Novak scores with a couple of nice shots.
Novak thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Moghadam's head.
Novak sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Moghadam defending well though.
Novak 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.
Novak thows a huge punch but Moghadam dodges it nicely.
Novak seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Moghadam does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Moghadam blocking the ground and pound attempt from Novak.
Moghadam keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Moghadam really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Novak. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Novak content to control rather than advance.
Moghadam 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.
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage. #T3#
Novak throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Novak not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Novak thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Moghadam taking some punishment here, with Novak in his half guard.
Novak not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Novak looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Moghadam with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Novak lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Novak landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Moghadam avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Novak. #T4#
Novak missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Novak content to control rather than advance.
Novak sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Moghadam defending well though.
Novak thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Moghadam's head.
Moghadam is not content to let Novak control the position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Novak working the head and body with strikes.
Well, if Novak 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.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Alfonz Novak dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Novak with a lazy takedown attempt
and Moghadam counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Nice takedown defense from Moghadam. No joy for Novak on that attempt.
A big right from Moghadam misses. #TD#
Novak is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Moghadam's half guard.
Novak sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Moghadam defending well though.
Moghadam blocking the ground and pound attempt from Novak.
Novak seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Moghadam does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Novak wants to take a breather but Moghadam is having none of it.
Novak missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Novak scoring with strikes to the body and head. #T1#
Moghadam is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Novak is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Moghadam can do to turn this around?
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Novak slips a nice elbow through Moghadam's hands, connecting with Moghadam's forehead.
Moghadam is not content to let Novak control the position.
Novak lands with a punch from half guard.
Novak seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Moghadam does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Moghadam avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Novak.
Moghadam is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Novak scores with a couple of nice shots.
Novak controlling the pace.
Alfonz Novak overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Novak working over Moghadam with some ground and pound. Moghadam looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#T2#
Moghadam is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Novak scores with a couple of nice shots.
Novak drops an elbow to the side of Moghadam's head.
Novak is looking to take a break and control but Moghadam is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Novak lands a nice short elbow.
Novak lands strikes from half guard.
Novak working the head and body with strikes.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Novak lands a nice short elbow.
Novak is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Novak not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Novak looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Moghadam with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Moghadam is breathing heavily.#T3#
Novak trying to control from half guard but Moghadam is working away.
Novak lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Novak thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Novak looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Moghadam is staying active underneath Novak, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Novak working over Moghadam with some ground and pound. Moghadam looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#T4#
Moghadam blocking the ground and pound attempt from Novak.
Novak is thwarting Moghadam's attempts to control the position.
Novak is looking to take a break and control but Moghadam is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Novak seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Moghadam is refusing to be controlled, as Novak sits in half guard.
Novak landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Novak wants to lay and pray for a moment but Moghadam keeps working.
Moghadam keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Alfonz Novak dominated that second round.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
No luck with that takedown attempt from Novak.
Novak fails with the takedown
and Moghadam counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#TD#
Novak shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Moghadam manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
Novak connects with a couple of short punches.
Novak distracts Moghadam with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Moghadam keeping moving, preventing Novak from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Novak accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Novak's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Moghadam keeping moving, preventing Novak from controlling successfully. #T1#
Novak in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Novak is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Novak accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Novak throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Novak throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Novak trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Moghadam is pulling down on Novak's head to control his posture.
Moghadam takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Novak with a nice head shot there.#T2#
Novak throws a big right hand that misses.
Novak postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Novak stands up over Moghadam, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Novak postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Novak postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Novak is looking to work some ground and pound but Moghadam has wrist control.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.#TD#
Novak fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Moghadam sprawls well initially but Novak persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Novak looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Moghadam with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Novak lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Novak slips a nice elbow through Moghadam's hands, connecting with Moghadam's forehead.#T3#
Novak scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Moghadam on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Novak scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Moghadam keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Ground and pound from Novak.
Moghadam is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Novak scores with a couple of nice shots.
Novak wants to take a breather but Moghadam is having none of it.
Nice strikes from Novak there.
Novak seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime. #ROC#Moghadam is rocked!
Novak is trying to control. Moghadam wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Moghadam is still in real trouble! Can Novak finish him?
Moghadam seems to have recovered his senses.#T4#
Novak performing his best blanket impression for a moment.
Novak thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Moghadam's head.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Novak throwing shots but Moghadam is blocking nicely.
Novak thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Novak not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Haisam Moghadam has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Alfonz Novak is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Novak controlling the action here.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.

And that's the end of the fight!
Alfonz Novak showed his dominance in that final round.
Well I reckon that's a shut out for Novak, 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 Cecil Peabody scores the fight 30:25
Judge Robert Twigg scores the fight 30:26
Judge Daniel Franklin scores the fight 30:26

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Alfonz Novak!

Event: RFL Connected 5.1
Date: Jun 15, 2024

#R1#
Novak tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Aydin manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Novak is looking to clinch.
Aydin throws an overhand right that lands on Novak's shoulder, as Novak tries to avoid the shot.
Novak connects with a right hand. Aydin shakes it off.
Novak looks to throw the jab but Aydin is out of range.
Aydin misses with a straight right.
Aydin throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Aydin lands a nice looking body shot.
Novak misses with a body shot. #TD#
Novak shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
Novak looking to pass the guard. #SUB2#
Aydin is active off his back here, looking for submissions. #SUB2#
Aydin throws his legs up looking to secure a triangle. Oh, that looks pretty tight, I gotta say! Novak escapes and throws Aydin's legs to the side, diving into side control!
Novak has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Novak throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Novak advances to full mount. #T1#
Aydin tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Novak wants to control the pace but Aydin is squirming around nicely.
Novak lands a big shot there that rocks Aydin but he's holding on and managing to survive for now.
Novak looking to finish Aydin with some ground and pound. This is bad for Aydin!
Novak connects with a couple of good shots from mount.
Aydin is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Aydin tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Novak punishing his opponent with strikes.
Novak connects with a bit shot that sees Aydin covering up! More strikes from Novak and the referee jumps in to stop the fight! Novak is our winner by TKO!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Alfonz Novak!

Event: RFL - Connected 4.1
Date: May 25, 2024

#R1#
Novak tries to close the distance and clinch but Rapheal swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Rapheal gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Novak.
Novak tries to grapple but his opponent circles
and Rapheal cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Novak tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Rapheal defends well and Novak ends up having to push Rapheal into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Rapheal is looking to counter with a shot to the body.#TD2#
Novak looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Rapheal!
Novak is trying to ground and pound but Rapheal uses the momentary lack of control by Novak to regain half guard.
Novak with the ground and pound but Rapheal uses the opportunity to regain guard.
Rapheal wants to sweep here but Novak controlling him for the moment.
Novak with a flurry of punches that miss. #T1#
Novak working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Novak postures up in Rapheal's guard and throws a big left but Rapheal blocks it.
Novak tries to free his leg and advance position but Rapheal is retaining full guard.
Novak throws an elbow that misses. Rapheal uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Novak's guard. Nice move by Rapheal!#REVR#
Novak looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Novak trying to keep a closed guard but Rapheal is proving a slippery customer.
Rapheal sitting in guard, not really doing much. #T2#
Novak looking for a sweep. Not yet Novak, not yet.
Novak can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Rapheal controls the pace.
Novak looking to control.
Novak is striking but Rapheal is not phased and passes to half guard.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Novak trying to get back to full guard but Rapheal takes advantage of the position and moves to full mount!#T3#
Novak can't escape the position.
Novak manages to regain half guard. Good work.
Novak moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Novak wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Novak manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Rapheal manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
Novak throws a big right hand that misses. #T4#
Novak trying to control the position from guard on top but Rapheal is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Novak throwing strikes from guard but Rapheal blocks nicely.
Novak trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Novak trying to control but Rapheal is working from the bottom.
Novak working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Novak postures up and lands a big shot to Rapheal's brow.
Novak throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Rapheal works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Novak scoring with punches to the head and body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Alfonz Novak dominated that round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Rapheal moves out of range of the strikes.
Rapheal was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
A looping hook to the body misses from Novak. Rapheal does a little dance to reset his feet.
Novak throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Novak closes this distance looking for a takedown but Rapheal circles away.
Rapheal lunges at Novak with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Novak's hand.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Novak.
Rapheal misses with a hook. Novak ducked under it nicely.
Novak misses with a takedown attempt - Rapheal sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
It looked like Rapheal wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Mark Rapheal has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Alfonz Novak.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#CL2#
Novak drives through and clinches with Rapheal against the cage.
Novak misses with a short punch on the inside.
Rapheal throws a head punch that misses. #T1#
Rapheal tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Novak's elbow.
Rapheal scores with a shot to the side of Novak's head.
Novak tries for a takedown. No joy.
Rapheal is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Rapheal makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Rapheal lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Novak backwards.
Rapheal fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Novak blocks an uppercut.
Novak creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses.
Novak tries for a takedown but Rapheal manages to get underhooks.
Novak takes a shot to the head.
Novak changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Rapheal fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Novak shoots and misses
and Rapheal counters with a stiff right hand.
Novak throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Rapheal scores with a counter punch that sends Novak to the canvas! Rapheal smells blood - he's punishing Novak with more strikes and the ref has stopped it! Novak has no idea where he is - he's tackled the ref... oh dear, poor guy, the crowd is in hysterics!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:47 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Mark Rapheal!
After winning the bout, Mark Rapheal thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

Event: RFL 1 - A New Day
Date: Apr 13, 2024

#R1#
Novak keeps the fight on the outside.
Novak misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Riendeau dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Riendeau wants to clinch but Novak slips to the side#TD2#
and Novak counters with a takedown into side control.
Novak working the ground and pound.
Novak creates a bit of distance and throws down some hard shots.
Riendeau is trying to control Novak's posture but Novak avoids it.
Riendeau is in a tricky position. We've heard reports from his gym mates at Final Mile that he's been drilling escapes, so let's see if he can get back to his feet.
Riendeau tries to improve position but can't.
Novak wants to lay and pray for a moment but Riendeau keeps working.
Novak has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Riendeau is letting Novak control him for a moment.
Novak wants to lay and pray for a moment but Riendeau keeps working.
Riendeau is looking to slip a leg under and get half guard but Novak is one step ahead and moves to full mount!#T1#
Novak scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Riendeau?
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Riendeau tries to lock up and control but Novak gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Novak landing punches.
Riendeau in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head. #ROC2#Riendeau is rocked!
Novak postures up and lands a whopping elbow - oh that's hurt Riendeau bigstyle! Two more strikes land for Novak and the fight is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:38 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Alfonz Novak!

Event: TOF 87
Date: Mar 10, 2024

#R1#
Novak displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Cabrera throws out the jab.
Donk. Novak catches Cabrera right on the button with a cross.
Cabrera lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Cabrera scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Novak throws a body punch but Cabrera moves out of range.
Cabrera slaps away a takedown attempt from Novak, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Novak lands with a good body shot.
Novak misses the shot to the body.
Novak tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Cabrera was well out of range. Poor timing from Novak.
We've been hearing reports that Novak has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.#CL#
Novak clinches.
Cabrera lands with a left to the head. #BC2#
Cabrera pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Cabrera will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away.
Cabrera throws a sloppy head kick and Novak moves out of range easily.
Cabrera scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Cabrera tries a head kick but it misses.
Novak drops down looking for a counter takedown but Cabrera sprawls and moves away.
Novak fails with an attempt to clinch. #T1#
Novak fails with the takedown.#TD#
Novak closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Cabrera did well to prevent Novak getting side control.
Novak sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Cabrera defending well though.
Cabrera is trying to stand up here but Novak is controlling him well.
Novak seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Novak is trying to control the action in half guard but Cabrera is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #ES2#
Cabrera makes some distance and scrambles quickly back to his feet. Nice work!
Novak tries to clinch but fails miserably
and Cabrera connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Cabrera throws out a loose jab but Novak uses good head movement to avoid it.
Cabrera circles away from the clinch attempt.
Novak takes a swing at Cabrera's ribcage but misses.
Novak is looking to wear down Cabrera with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Cabrera throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Cabrera bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Novak's head backwards.
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!
Novak doesn't manage to clinch there - Cabrera circles away. #CL#
Novak has managed to clinch. #T2#
Cabrera misses with a punch on the inside.
Cabrera misses with the head strike.
Cabrera tries a body shot but Novak blocks it.
Cabrera has a couple of punches blocked by Novak.
Cabrera throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Novaks head.
Novak is working for takedown but Cabrera is calmly controlling the position for now.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Alfonz Novak. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Novak blocking some punches.
A hook to the body from Cabrera.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Cabrera.
Cabrera gets underhooks to prevent Novak's takedown attempt.
Cabrera lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Novak wants to stall.
Novak prevents a body shot from Cabrera.
Cabrera lands a hook that snaps the head of Novak backwards.
Cabrera working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Cabrera working some nice short punches in the clinch.#T3#
Novak has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Cabrera avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Cabrera gets through Novak's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.#TD#
Novak lands a takedown into guard.
Novak 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.
Cabrera is looking to stand up but Novak isn't so interested in that idea.
Cabrera is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.
Novak loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Cabrera wants to get back to his feet but Novak is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Cabrera being controlled here, momentarily. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Cabrera scoring well with a low kick there. #T4#
Cabrera uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Novak.
Novak lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Novak shoots for a double leg takedown but Cabrera sprawls well. He's pushed Novak's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Heraclio Cabrera is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Cabrera avoids the body shot from Novak.
Cabrera misses with a low kick.
Novak is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
A little jabbing left from Cabrera on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Novak misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Cabrera is clearly looking to counter with head kicks.
Novak takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Cabrera takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
A bone on bone clash there as Novak blocks the leg kick.
Novak looks to score with a jab to the body but Cabrera is just out of range.
Cabrera tries a switch kick but it misses it's target. #TD#
Novak scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground. #T5#
Novak is trying to control the action in half guard but Cabrera is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #ES2#
Cabrera has one foot on Novak's thigh - he pushes off and manages to get back to his feet.
Cabrera 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.
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Cabrera!
Cabrera throws a sloppy head kick and Novak moves out of range easily.
Novak swings for the body but Cabrera moves out of range.
Novak tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Cabrera turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Novak misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Cabrera.
Cabrera throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range.
Novak fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Cabrera manages to avoid it.
Cabrera feints a counter leg kick.
Novak avoids the head kick by Cabrera. #TD#
Excellent takedown into side control there by Novak.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Cabrera is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.#T6#
Novak trying to control the action but Cabrera is working from the bottom.
Cabrera has found himself in a tricky position here. He's been working his transitions in training so let's see if he can work his way out of it.
Both fighters have adopted an aggressive gameplan on the ground!
Novak working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Cabrera tries to get back to his feet but has found himself mounted instead. Damn, that's gotta suck.
Novak looking to control but Cabrera is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Cabrera is not a happy chappy… he wants out of there.
Novak trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Novak lands a big shot there that rocks Cabrera but he's holding on and managing to survive for now.
A nice elbow there by Novak.
You get the feeling that Cabrera really doesn't like being in this position too much. #ES2#
Cabrera bucks up and throws Novak to the side - he's got back to his feet. Great escape!#T7#
Cabrera swings wildly with a hook that is half blocked by Novak.
Novak tries to clinch but Cabrera is having none of it.
Cabrera jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Novak misses the shot to the body.
Cabrera throws the left hand but Novak avoids the punch easily.
Novak chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Cabrera can pounce on him.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Novak.#CL#
Cabrera tries to keep at a distance but Novak has taken the fight into the clinch.
Cabrera working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.#BC#
Novak manages to break the clinch.
Cabrera throws a leg kick that is checked#TD#
and Novak counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Cabrera looks like he's trying to stand up.
Novak thows a huge punch but Cabrera dodges it nicely. #T8#
Cabrera is trying to stand.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#ES2#
Cabrera kicks Novak off and gets back to his feet.
Cabrera is looking to score with low kicks.
Cabrera is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Novak.
Novak pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Cabrera throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand. #TD#
Cabrera tries to sprawl but Novak drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Novak throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Cabrera on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Novak scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Cabrera pushes Novak off looking to stand but Novak dives back in and keeps control.
Novak thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Cabrera's head.
Cabrera is not content to let Novak control the position.
Novak throwing shots but Cabrera is blocking nicely.
Cabrera is trying to stand up here but Novak is controlling him well. #ES2#
Cabrera manages to create a bit of space in order to work his way back to his feet. Novak keeps hold of his opponent and drives him back against the cage.
Novak is trying to force a seperation but Cabrera has the dominant position.#T9#
Cabrera is pressed up against the cage. Novak has hold of a leg and is looking to drag Cabrera down to the mat. Cabrera avoids the attempt though and has circled away. We're back to striking at a distance.
Cabrera fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Novak has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Novak tries to clinch but Cabrera is having none of it.
Cabrera plants his feet and lands a nice head kick!
Cabrera with a nice calf kick.
Novak throws a body punch but Cabrera moves out of range.
Novak fails with the takedown
and Cabrera counters with a one-two to the body.
Novak swings for the body but Cabrera moves out of range. #TD#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Cabrera enables Novak to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Cabrera manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Novak prevents Cabrera from getting back to his feet. #ES2#
Cabrera has scooted to the edge of the canvas and used the cage to get back to his feet. Novak has stuck on his opponent and is forcing him back against the cage.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Novak is looking to break free of the clinch but Cabrera has double underhooks.
Still in the clinch, Cabrera scores with a nice short uppercut.
Novak has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Cabrera is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
Cabrera swings wildly with an uppercut but Novak uses good head movement to avoid it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Heraclio Cabrera 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##TD#
Novak shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
Novak chips away with some ground and pound.
Novak prevents Cabrera from getting back to his feet. #ES2#
Cabrera pushes Novak off for just long enough to get back to his feet. Very athletic spring there.
Cabrera lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
The fight stays on the outside here - Novak looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
The fighters circling - Cabrera throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Novak jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Despite the aggression on Cabrera's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cabrera with the inside leg kick.
Novak misses with a jab to the body
letting Cabrera counter with a right hand.
Cabrera throws a leg kick but Novak sees it coming and moves out of range.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Novak tries to close the distance and clinch up but Cabrera swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Some bone on bone action there as Novak checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one. #T1#
Novak fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.#TD#
Novak fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Cabrera sprawls well initially but Novak persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Novak prevents Cabrera from standing back up.
Novak throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Novak looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Cabrera with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Novak missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Novak tries to pass to full mount but Cabrera defends it.
Nice strikes from Novak there.
Novak stops Cabrera from getting back to his feet.
Novak trying to mount his opponent but Cabrera defends it. #T2#
Novak prevents Cabrera from standing back up.
Cabrera keeping his head moving to avoid the ground and pound.
Cabrera has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#ES2#
Cabrera kicks off Novak and gets to his feet.
Alfonz Novak seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#TD#
Novak manages to get an easy takedown there - catching Cabrera on his heels. He'll look to pass Cabrera's guard now, I'm sure.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Novak is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Novak throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent. #ES2#
Cabrera uses the cage to get back to his feet.
Cabrera throws a nice outside leg kick.
Novak tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Cabrera manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.#TD#
Novak throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Cabrera tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Novak is in Cabrera's guard.
Cabrera is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far. #ES2#
Cabrera has his feet on Novak's hips. He pushes off and gets to his feet. Nice work.
Cabrera lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.#T3##TD#
Novak is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Cabrera's half guard.

Cabrera makes some distance and scrambles quickly back to his feet. Nice work!
Good work by Novak as he checks the leg kick.
Novak tries to counter with a takedown but Cabrera is quick to defend against it.
Novak will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Cabrera misses with a leg kick #TD#
and Novak counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Novak is keen to just control but Cabrera is a slippery customer.
Cabrera looks like he's trying to stand up. #ES2#
Cabrera manages to create a bit of space in order to work his way back to his feet. Novak keeps hold of his opponent and drives him back against the cage.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cabrera works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Novak wants to take the fight to the mat but Cabrera manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Alfonz Novak. That's going to take a lot out of him.
A short right from Cabrera on the inside.
Cabrera scores with a shot to the side of Novak's head.
Cabrera working aggressively here.
Cabrera throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Novaks head. #T4#
Cabrera scores with a nice hook to the head.
Novak is trying to break the clinch but Cabrera has him pressed against the cage.
Novak is working for takedown but Cabrera is calmly controlling the position for now.
Novak stalling in the clinch but Cabrera improves position.
Cabrera misses with a hook from the clinch.
Cabrera lands a right hand that snaps the head of Novak backwards.
Novak looks like he'd prefer to be striking at range right now.
Cabrera makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Cabrera is defending well against a takedown attempt.
A head punch on the inside from Cabrera fails to land.
Cabrera is defending well against a takedown attempt.#BC2#
Cabrera breaks from the clinch.
Cabrera avoids the body shot from Novak.
Cabrera keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.#T5#
Cabrera misses with a hook. Novak ducked under it nicely.
Cabrera throws a head kick but Novak moves out of range.
Novak drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
A good leg kick by Cabrera.
No luck for Novak with that takedown attempt.
Cabrera cracks Novak with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Heraclio Cabrera seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Novak shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Cabrera as he avoids it easily.
Cabrera pivots, looking for a leg kick but Novak is out of range and Cabrera settles back down.
Novak lands a body shot.
Cabrera ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
A little jabbing left from Cabrera on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Novak checks a leg kick.
Cabrera swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Novak attempts a counter takedown but Cabrera avoids it well and moves away.
Cabrera misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick. #CL#
Novak pushes Cabrera up against the cage in a clinch.#T6#
Cabrera misses with a hook from the clinch.
Cabrera lands with a light punch inside.
Cabrera lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!#BC2#
Cabrera breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Novak fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
An inside leg kick from Cabrera misses.
Novak fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Cabrera manages to avoid it.
Novak bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Cabrera misses with a low kick.
Novak is looking to clinch but Cabrera is avoiding it.
Novak swings for the body but Cabrera moves out of range.
Cabrera was about to counter that last move with a leg kick but changes his mind.
Novak moves in looking to clinch but Cabrera pushes him off.
Novak shoots and misses
and Novak takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Cabrera throws a leg kick which misses Novak's front leg but catches the back leg as Novak tries to avoid it.
Cabrera throws a low kick but Novak moves out of range easily.
Cabrera connects with a jab.#T7#
A low kick from Cabrera is predictable there #TD#
and Novak counters with a takedown into side control.
Cabrera wants to get back to his feet.#ES2#
Cabrera throws his opponent off and manages to get back to his feet! Nicely done!#TD#
Novak throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Cabrera tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Novak is in Cabrera's guard.#ES2#
Cabrera wriggles free and stands up.
Novak wants to clinch.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Cabrera is looking to slow Novak down with leg kicks.
Cabrera feints and then cracks Novak's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Novak down.
Cabrera throws a leg kick which misses Novak's front leg but catches the back leg as Novak tries to avoid it. #T8#
A head kick misses from Cabrera.
Cabrera lands with a thumping leg kick.
Cabrera turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Cabrera keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Novak fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Novak waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Cabrera.
A telegraphed right hand from Novak misses the target.
Novak thows a left - swing and a miss!
Novak throws out a loose jab but Cabrera uses good head movement to avoid it.
Cabrera looks like he wanted to counter with a high kick but didn't throw it.
Cabrera pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Novak tries to close the distance and clinch up but Cabrera swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Novak tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Cabrera was well out of range. Poor timing from Novak.
An inside leg kick from Cabrera misses. #TD#
Novak shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Novak showed some decent athleticism there. #T9#
Cabrera is trying to stand. #ES2#
Cabrera has one foot on Novak's thigh - he pushes off and manages to get back to his feet.
Cabrera pushing out the jab but it's not landing. #TD#
Novak 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.

Cabrera has his feet on Novak's hips. He pushes off and gets to his feet. Nice work.
Novak misses with a wild body shot.
Cabrera swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Novak half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Novak throws a lazy uppercut
and Cabrera counters with a slapping leg kick.
Cabrera getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Nice uppercut there from Cabrera.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Novak tries to close the distance and clinch up but Cabrera swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Cabrera has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Cabrera there as he acknowledges the shot.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Heraclio Cabrera showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Novak tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Cabrera defends well and Novak ends up having to push Cabrera into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Cabrera stops a takedown attempt from Novak. #BC2#
Cabrera's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.#TD#
Novak throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Cabrera was covering up waiting for the punch and Novak finishes the takedown easily into guard.
Cabrera is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Novak is controlling him.
Novak wants to control from the top but Cabrera keeps moving.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak stops Cabrera from standing up.
Novak pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Cabrera is keeping the position for now.
Cabrera utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound. #T1#
Novak postures up in Cabrera's guard and throws a big left but Cabrera blocks it.
Novak throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Novak prevents Cabrera from getting back to his feet. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
The fight stays on the outside here - Novak looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Novak is looking to clinch but Cabrera is avoiding it.
Cabrera throws a leg kick #TD#
and Novak decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Cabrera's guard.
Novak wants to control from the top but Cabrera keeps moving.
Novak prevents Cabrera from getting back to his feet. #ES2#
Cabrera pushes Novak off for just long enough to get back to his feet. Very athletic spring there.
Cabrera throws a quick inside leg kick.
Cabrera throws a quick inside leg kick.
Cabrera misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Horrible takedown attempt by Novak or perhaps it was just good defense by Cabrera, which made it look bad.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Alfonz Novak. That's going to take a lot out of him.#T2#
Cabrera tries to score with a low kick but Novak moves his leg out of the way.
Novak misses with a body shot
and Cabrera counters with a stiff right hand.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
The fight stays on the outside here - Novak looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
A little jabbing left from Cabrera on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Cabrera is looking to slow Novak down with leg kicks.
Cabrera connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Novak with a poor takedown
and Cabrera counters with a stiff right hand.
Cabrera throws a right and a left that Novak avoids nicely.
Novak checks a leg kick nicely.
Novak avoids the head kick by Cabrera.
Cabrera connects with a looping right hand.
Cabrera keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Novak tries to clinch there but Cabrera circles away.
Nice uppercut there from Cabrera.#T3#
Cabrera turns his hip over beautifully as he lands a nice leg kick.
Novak tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Novak checks the leg kick.
Novak appears to be looking for a counter takedown.#TD#
Novak decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
Cabrera is trying to stand up here but Novak is controlling him well.
Novak is nestled in close to Cabrera, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Cabrera wants to get back to his feet. #ES2#
Cabrera manages to create a bit of space in order to work his way back to his feet. Novak keeps hold of his opponent and drives him back against the cage.
Cabrera takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Novak.
Cabrera prevents Novak from breaking the clinch.
A short right from Cabrera.
Novak working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Novak wants to break the clinch but can't.
Cabrera scores with a nice hook to the head.#T4#
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Cabrera is defending well against a takedown attempt.
A shot in the inside from Cabrera.
Cabrera lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Cabrera has a couple of punches blocked by Novak.
Novak looking to throw knees to the head but Cabrera is blocking nicely.
Cabrera lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Cabrera lands a body punch in the clinch.
Cabrera keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Novak's efforts to push away.
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Cabrera.
Cabrera scores with a shoulder strike.
Novak wants to strike at distance but he can't break free of the clinch.
Novak tries a knee to the head but Cabrera blocks it.
A right hand to the body from Cabrera.
Novak goes for a takedown attempt but Cabrera pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance. #T5#
Donk. Cabrera catches Novak right on the button with a cross.#ROC2#Novak is rocked!
Novak looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Cabrera lands a brutal head kick. Novak looks out on his feet and Cabrera throws more strikes until the ref is forced to stop the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5:18 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Kick and Punches). Heraclio Cabrera!
An out of breath Heraclio Cabrera thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

Event: CFC 635
Date: Jan 27, 2024

#R1##CL2#
Novak gets in close and instigates a clinch. #TD#
Bakarow decides to pull guard.
Novak loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Novak is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Novak in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Novak controls from within his opponent's guard.
Novak connects with a couple of short punches.
Novak is in close to Bakarow's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Bakarow 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#
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak wants to get back to full guard.
It looks like Bakarow is going to stand back up.
Well, if Bakarow 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. #T1#
The fighters are battling for position here. Novak manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Novak has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Novak lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Novak postures up and lands a big shot to Bakarow's brow.
Novak works over Bakarow with some ground and pound from guard.
Bakarow preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Novak controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Bakarow definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Bakarow tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Novak postures up in Bakarow's guard and throws a big left but Bakarow blocks it.
Novak is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.#T2#
Novak with a flurry of punches that miss.
Novak wants to control from the top but Bakarow keeps moving.
Novak with a flurry of punches that miss.
Novak distracts Bakarow with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Novak is looking to work some ground and pound but Bakarow has wrist control.
Bakarow can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Novak controls the pace.
Novak is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Novak pushing down on Bakarow's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work. #T3#
Novak lands with a punch from half guard.
Novak is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for Bakarow!
Novak landing shots from mount.
Novak is in the full mount, landing strikes. #ROC2#Bakarow is rocked!
A big strike lands for Novak! That's really hurt Bakarow and he's turned his back - Novak keeps firing away and the ref dives in to stop the fight! Novak jumps to his feet to celebrate the victory!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:38 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Alfonz Novak!

Event: APEX 12
Date: Nov 26, 2023

#R1##TD#
Novak looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Shields!
Novak with the ground and pound but Shields regains half guard under the barage of strikes.
Novak is looking for the mount but instead finds himself back in full guard.
Novak postures up and lands a big shot to Shields's brow.
Shields working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Novak.
Novak trying to control but Shields is working from the bottom.
Shields is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Novak content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak throwing strikes from guard but Shields blocks nicely.
Shields manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Novak manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
Shields trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #T1#
Novak 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.#SUB#
Novak working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Shields doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Shields manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Novak throws a couple of shots from the bottom but they don't land.
Novak looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Novak working a defensive guard here.
Novak looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Shields trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Shields pushing down on Novak's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Novak wants to get back to full guard.
Novak has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.#T2#
Shields is trying to control the action in half guard but Novak is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Novak is trying to get back to full guard.
Novak trying to control from the bottom.
Shields wants to free his trapped foot but Novak is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Novak gets back to full guard.
Shields wants to pass the guard but Novak is keeping the position.
Novak looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Novak has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Shields has passed into side control.
Shields trying to control the action but Novak is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Shields tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Shields has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #T3##SUB2#
Shields is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Novak is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Novak wants to control but Shields postures up.
Shields is looking to take a break and control but Novak is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Novak is looking to reverse the position.
Novak gets back to half guard.#T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Novak gets back to full guard.
Novak wants to sweep but no luck.
Shields looking to pass the guard.
Novak controls Shields momentarily but Shields frees himself.
Shields stopping the sweep attempt from Novak.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Novak is working hard here to advance position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Shields wants to control from the top but Novak keeps moving.
Shields stopping the sweep attempt from Novak.
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 Alfonz Novak will probably get the nod.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
Shields misses with a lunging right hand #TD#
and Novak counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Novak lands a couple of elbows.
Novak pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Shields is keeping the position for now.
Shields looking for a sweep. Not yet Shields, not yet.
Novak slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Shields tries to improve position but can't.
Shields manages to get back to half guard.
Novak passes to side control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Shields seems a little lost for a moment, as Novak dominates the positioning.
Novak lands a decent elbow from side control.
Shields tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Novak wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Novak working the head and body with strikes. #T1#
Novak landing strikes.
Shields taking a bit of punishment here - Novak scoring with strikes. #ROC#Shields is rocked!
Novak is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Shields can do to turn this around?
A big shot lands for Novak! That's hurt Shields! Will he recover? Novak fires away with more strikes and the referee has to step in to stop the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:29 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Alfonz Novak!
The defeated Jake Shields had this to say: 'As long as you're open-minded you can learn stuff from anyone.'.

Event: APEX 7
Date: Oct 22, 2023

#R1##CL#
Roberts tries to keep at a distance but Novak has taken the fight into the clinch.
Roberts gets through Novak's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Novak is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Novak drops to a knee looking for a takedown but Roberts gets the underhooks and prevents it.
Roberts lands a shot to the body.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Roberts. #BC#
Novak manages to break the clinch.
Novak throws a hard body shot but it just misses. #CL#
Novak forces Roberts back against the cage and clinches.
Roberts working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak is trying to force a seperation but Roberts has the dominant position.
Roberts lands a shot to the body.#BC2#
Roberts manages to break the clinch. #TD#
Novak gets the takedown into side control.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Novak postures up a little and throws a couple of hammerfists but they don't connect properly.
Novak throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T1#
Novak is looking to take a break and control but Roberts is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Roberts can do anything to dispel that myth.
You can see the frustration on Roberts's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Roberts defending against the ground and pound.
Roberts is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Roberts parries the strikes from Novak easily there. Novak is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Roberts to escape.
Novak scores with punches from side control.
Roberts takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
Novak trying to control the position but Roberts is working away.
Roberts dodges the ground and pound from Novak.#T2#
Novak scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Roberts to see if he's OK.
Novak tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
Novak postures up a little and throws a couple of hammerfists but they don't connect properly.
A lull in the action here as Novak stalls from top position.
Novak looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Roberts is avoiding damage well.
Roberts is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Roberts manages to get one leg in to regain half guard. #T3#
Novak is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Novak lands a nice short elbow.
Novak tries to pass the half guard into mount. Roberts knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Roberts is refusing to be controlled, as Novak sits in half guard.
Novak throwing shots but Roberts is blocking nicely.
Roberts taking some punishment here, with Novak in his half guard.
Novak sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Roberts defending well though.
Novak working Roberts over with strikes. #ROC#Roberts is rocked!#T4#
Novak lands a big elbow - Roberts 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 Novak!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:21 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Alfonz Novak!

Event: APEX 2
Date: Sep 16, 2023

#R1##CL#
Novak takes the fight into the clinch.
Saqqaf tries to work over Novak's body with a swooping hook but it only glances the target.
Novak content to slow the pace in the clinch.
Saqqaf has Novak pushed against the cage.
A battle for position here, against the cage.
Saqqaf is leaning against Novak and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Novak tries to land knees in the clinch but Saqqaf avoids the damage to the body.
We've been informed that Saqqaf has been sparring a lot of Muay Thai in the buildup to this fight so let's see if that has an impact on the result.
Saqqaf trying to stall but Novak improves his position.
Novak stalling in the clinch.
Novak looking to throw knees to the head but Saqqaf is blocking nicely.
Novak misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Saqqaf.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
The fighters are pressed against the cage, as the pace of the fight slows.
Novak is trying to drag Saqqaf to the mat but Saqqaf just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Saqqaf doesn't land with the attempted body shot. #T1#
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Saqqaf as Novak tries to tie him up. #TD#
Novak has clasped his hands together around Saqqaf's back... aaand, he's got a takedown into side control. Nicely done.
We've been hearing good reports from Novak'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.
Saqqaf is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Novak's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Novak controlling the pace.
Saqqaf wants to get back to full guard.
Novak working Saqqaf over with strikes.
Saqqaf taking some punishment here, with Novak in his half guard.
Ground and pound from Novak.
Saqqaf is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Novak's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Novak's back!#SUB2#
Novak showing good submission defense here.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Novak rolls, trying to escape but Saqqaf keeps control of the position. #T2#
Novak tries to escape the position - he's now mounted. Is that better or worse? Hard to tell! #SUB2#
Saqqaf is going oldschool here, as he tries to force Novak to tap using a forearm choke. This isn't 1993 though, so Novak shrugs it off.
Novak regains half guard.
Novak wants to improve his position but Saqqaf is controlling well.
Novak is working hard here to advance position.
The fighters are battling for position here. Novak manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Saqqaf wants to control from the top but Novak keeps moving.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Saqqaf stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Novak swivels though and keeps the full guard. #T3#
Saqqaf trying to control the position from guard on top but Novak is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Novak wants to hit a sweep here but Saqqaf passes into full mount! Oh no, disaster for Novak there!
Novak is desperately trying to improve his position but Saqqaf has a good base and remains in mount.#SUB2#
Saqqaf looking for a guillotine from mount but Novak is having none of it.
Saqqaf tries to control but Novak wriggling away.
Novak manages to regain half guard. Good work.
Novak is looking to improve his position.
Saqqaf trying to mount his opponent but Novak defends it. #T4##SUB#
Novak looking for submissions off his back.#SUB2#
Saqqaf seems to be working for a kimura but Novak defends the submission attempt.
Novak keeping hold of Saqqaf's head, controlling as best he can.
Novak moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Saqqaf is holding a leg here, probably looking for an ankle lock - he drops back and goes for it! Novak is in trouble! Is it all over??? No! Novak has escaped and now he's on top! #REVR#
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Alfonz Novak dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Novak throws a jab when Saqqaf was well out of range.
Saqqaf throws out a counter right but Novak avoids it with no problem.
Novak is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Saqqaf can do to turn this around?
Saqqaf throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Novak is looking to clinch but Saqqaf is avoiding it.
Novak avoids the body shot from Saqqaf. #TD#
Novak closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Novak is pressing down on Saqqaf's thigh, looking to free his foot. Saqqaf is holding on for now.
Saqqaf is looking to improve his position.
Novak trying to control the action but Saqqaf is working from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak 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.
Saqqaf gets back to full guard.
Novak has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Saqqaf keeping moving, preventing Novak from controlling successfully. #T1#
Novak pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Saqqaf is keeping the position for now.
Novak preventing the sweep.
Novak engaging in some classic timewasting tactics. #SUB2#
Saqqaf working for a triangle but Novak defends it easily.
Novak wants to pass the guard but Saqqaf is keeping the position.
Saqqaf working a defensive guard here.
Alfonz Novak overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Saqqaf bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Novak's guard. #REVB#
Novak keeping moving, preventing Saqqaf from controlling successfully.
Saqqaf preventing the sweep.
Novak bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Saqqaf's guard. #REVR#
Novak won't allow Saqqaf to sweep him here.
Novak sitting in guard here, content to control. #T3##SUB2#
Saqqaf had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Novak defends it easily.
Novak wants to control from the top but Saqqaf keeps moving.
Novak scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Novak scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Novak landing with the ground and pound.
Novak trying to control but Saqqaf is working from the bottom.
Novak content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Saqqaf trying to keep a closed guard but Novak is proving a slippery customer. #T4#
Novak keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Saqqaf's head.
Saqqaf looking to hit a scissor sweep but Novak is one step ahead there.
Novak working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Saqqaf trying to keep a closed guard but Novak is proving a slippery customer.
Novak won't allow Saqqaf to sweep him here.
Saqqaf can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Novak controls the pace.
Novak scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Novak stays in close to Saqqaf's body and controls the position. #SUB2#
Saqqaf is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Alfonz Novak dominated that second round.
That's time! Novak's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!#R3#
Novak misses with a body shot.
Novak scores with a jab to the body.
Saqqaf throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle. #CL#
Novak gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Saqqaf tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Novak smiles and moves away.
Saqqaf throws a solid leg kick but Novak takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Saqqaf.
Novak is looking to take this fight into the clinch.#CL#
Novak has Saqqaf up against the cage in a clinch.
Saqqaf stalling here - the referee won't stand for too much of that.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Saqqaf managing to block the knees to the body from Novak.
Saqqaf looking to slow down the pace here.
The fighters are pressed against the cage, as the pace of the fight slows.
Novak tries to score a body lock takedown but Saqqaf shows good agility there to stay on his feet.#T1#
Saqqaf is looking to control Novak's arms but Novak gets an underhook and turns him. Now Saqqaf has his back to the cage.
Saqqaf is looking to control Novak's arms but Novak gets an underhook and turns him. Now Saqqaf has his back to the cage. #TD#
Novak turns his hips and lands a very nice judo throw into side control!
Novak lands a decent elbow from side control.
Novak landing a few strikes.
Saqqaf sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Novak is trying to control. Saqqaf wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Novak scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Novak working the head and body with strikes.
Novak looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Saqqaf with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position. #ROC#Saqqaf is rocked!
Saqqaf manages to get to full guard.
Saqqaf is still in real trouble! Can Novak finish him?
Saqqaf manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Novak manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
Saqqaf seems to have recovered his senses.#T2#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Saqqaf trying to control the position from guard on top but Novak is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Saqqaf preventing the sweep.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Novak is on top in guard. #REVR#
Novak is stalling in the full guard. #SUB2#
Saqqaf escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Novak gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance. #T3#
Novak wants to control from the top but Saqqaf keeps moving.
Novak tries to free his leg and advance position but Saqqaf is retaining full guard.
Saqqaf keeping moving, preventing Novak from controlling successfully.
Novak lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Novak stands up over Saqqaf, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head. #T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Novak lands a couple of elbows.
Novak throws a strike but Saqqaf rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVB#
Saqqaf slips nicely into half guard.
Novak wants to get back to full guard.#SUB2#
Novak is defending against the submission attempts here by Saqqaf.
Novak wants to get back to full guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Waheed Saqqaf has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Alfonz Novak is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.

And that's the end of the fight!
Alfonz Novak showed his dominance in that final round.
Well I reckon that's a shut out for Novak, 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 Albert Achterberg scores the fight 30:27
Judge Paul Aken scores the fight 30:27
Judge Patrick Alders scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Alfonz Novak!

Event: SMFL 22 - Duran vs. Kardi
Date: Aug 26, 2023

#R1#
Novak feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Shieldss jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Novak scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Shields doesn't seem bothered though.
Alfonz Novak seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#CL2#
Novak clinches with his opponent.
Novak looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.#TD2#
Novak has double underhooks and is working for a body lock takedown. He's got it. The fighters land in half guard but Shields regains guard immediately.
Novak scoring with punches to the head and body.
Shields is trying to control the position but Novak postures up.
Novak loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Shields trying to keep a closed guard but Novak is proving a slippery customer. #SUB#
Shields is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Novak in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time. #SUB#
Novak avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Shields looking to hit a scissor sweep but Novak is one step ahead there. #T1##SUB#
Shields looking to try and escape his hips here, looking for a submission. It looks like he's going for a triangle but Novak is defending well. Shields quickly switches to an armbar and extends the arm! Novak has no choice but to tap, to a very quick submission! Wow, that was lightning fast! Shields celebrates on the cage, with the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Jake Shields!
Jake Shields took to the microphone after his victory and thanked his sponsors, Ma Balls Is Hot Clothing for their support in the buildup to the fight.

Event: SMFL 19 - Hunt vs. O Brien 2
Date: Jul 15, 2023

#R1#
Donk. Sky catches Novak right on the button with a cross.
Novak takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Novak is looking to clinch but Sky is avoiding it.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Sky thows a left - swing and a miss!
Sky connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Novak ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Sky moves away.
Novak ducks under a wild hook from Sky.
Novak is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Sky scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Novak doesn't seem bothered though.
Sky throws a body punch but Novak moves out of range.
Sky scores with a nice strike.
Novak defending well as Sky loads up on a big left hand.
Sky just misses with a punch to the body.
Sky fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
A swing and a miss from Sky.
Novak moves away from the strike by Sky. #CL2#
Novak drives through and clinches with Sky against the cage.
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!
Novak wants to break the clinch but can't. #BC#
Sky breaks the clinch.
Sky throws a body shot but no joy.
Sky looks to score with a jab to the body but Novak is just out of range.
Novak drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Sky defends it well.
Sky circles away from the clinch attempt.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Novak.
Sky takes one to the side of the head. #T1#
Novak is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Sky.
A little feinted left hand from Sky on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Sky misses the shot to the body.
Sky lands a body shot.
Sky lands with a nice body punch.
Novak tries to clinch but Sky is having none of it.
Novak shoots in but Sky avoids the takedown attempt easily.
We've been told by Sky's head coaches at Outlaw MMA that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Journey Sky seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Sky jabs at Novak's body.
Sky lands a slapping body shot.
Novak on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Novak tries to move into range but Sky moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
Novak looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Sky just misses with a punch to the body.
Sky slips a straight right by Novak.
Sky connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Sky digs a good hook to Novak's body.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!#TD2#
Novak drives through with a takedown into Sky's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
Novak lands a couple of digs.
Novak stopping the sweep attempt from Sky.#T2#
Novak works over Sky with some ground and pound from guard.
Novak is working Sky over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Novak is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Novak has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Novak throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Novak seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up.
Novak trying to control the position from guard on top but Sky is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Novak working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Novak accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Sky wants to get back to his feet but Novak is in a dominant position and won't allow it. #SUB#
Sky is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle. #T3#
Novak makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Novak working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Sky's head.
Novak postures up and lands a big shot to Sky's brow.
Novak is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Novak distracts Sky with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Sky on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Sky tries to get out of the position.
Novak content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Novak landing with the ground and pound.
Novak connects with a couple of short punches.
Novak is pushing down on Sky's leg trying to pass to half guard. Sky is fighting to maintain full guard but Novak has managed to sneak the leg through.
Novak moves into full mount! Sky won't be happy about that! #T4#
Novak raining down shots from the mount!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Sky is trying desperately to improve position.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Novak looking to control but Sky is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
BOOM! Novak connects with a massive shot to the dome!
Sky is writhing around trying to get back to his feet.
Novak lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Novak lands a big elbow.
Novak lands a big elbow.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Alfonz Novak will probably get the nod.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.#R2#
Novak shoots in but no luck this time.
Novak wants to clinch up but Sky keeps it at a distance.
Novak wants to clinch up but Sky keeps it at a distance.
Sky getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Sky keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot. #TD2#
Novak looking to score a takedown here. Sky is defending well but Novak drives through and ends up in Sky's guard.
Novak landing some decent shots from guard.
Sky working a defensive guard here.
Sky looking to hit a scissor sweep but Novak is one step ahead there.
Novak connects with a couple of short punches.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Novak postures up and lands a big shot to Sky's brow.
Novak controls the pace of the fight for a moment.#T1#
Novak chips away with some ground and pound.
Novak postures up and lands a big shot to Sky's brow.
Novak lands a couple of elbows.
Sky keeping moving, preventing Novak from controlling successfully.
Sky trying to strike off his back.
Novak connects with a couple of short punches.
Sky looking for a sweep. Not yet Sky, not yet.
Novak postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Novak with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Novak scoring with some ground and pound.
Novak lands a couple of digs.
Novak postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Novak advances position into side control!#T2#
Sky takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Sky knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Novak on the ground.
Novak landing strikes. #ROC2#Sky is rocked!
Novak trying to control the action but Sky is working from the bottom.
Oh Sky is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Novak grinds an elbow into Sky's temple.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Sky throws a couple of punches but he's in a bad position and they don't land.
Novak in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Novak trying to control the position but Sky is working away.
Novak has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
You can see the frustration on Sky's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#T3#
Novak in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Novak working the ground and pound from side control.
Sky is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Sky seems to have got his legs back now.
Novak scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Sky to see if he's OK.
Novak is working Sky over with some ground and pound from side control.
Sky tries to bench press Novak off him but Novak keeps the position.
Novak lands a few punches from side control.
A big shot lands for Novak! That's hurt Sky! Will he recover? Novak fires away with more strikes and the referee has to step in to stop the fight!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:59 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Alfonz Novak!

Event: SMFL 16 - Chai vs. Peters
Date: Jun 03, 2023

#R1#
Isaacs throws a head kick that misses. #CL2#
Novak drives through and clinches with Isaacs against the cage.
Novak is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Novak working hard to break the clinch.
Isaacs stops a takedown attempt from Novak. #TD2#
Isaacs is fighting off a takedown attempt but Novak is just too persistent for him and manages to trip Isaacs to the mat. Isaacs regains guard as soon as the fighters hit the mat.
Novak with a flurry of punches that miss.
Novak content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Novak working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Isaacs's head.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Novak scoring with punches to the head and body.
Novak in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time. #SUB#
Isaacs has an active guard here but Novak has managed to pass into half guard.
Novak perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
Novak is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Novak prevents Isaacs from improving his position.#T1#
Novak scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Isaacs trying to hold on to Novak's head to control him but Novak postures up.
Novak lands strikes from half guard.
Novak working over Isaacs with some ground and pound. Isaacs looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#SUB#
Isaacs looking for submissions off his back.
Novak lands with a punch from half guard.
Novak slips a nice elbow through Isaacs's hands, connecting with Isaacs's forehead.
Novak is looking to advance position but Isaacs won't allow it.
Isaacs on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Novak connects with a nice short shot to Isaacs's temple. #T2#
Novak slows the pace down in half guard. #SUB#
Isaacs looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Novak wants to lay and pray for a moment but Isaacs keeps working.
Novak working the head and body with strikes.
Isaacs trying to get back to full guard but Novak takes advantage of the position and moves to full mount!
Isaacs is bucking up trying to escape but Novak cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Novak landing punches. #ROC2#Isaacs is rocked!
Novak unloads with some vicious shots from mount and Isaacs wants out - he looks towards the referee who steps in to save him! Novak celebrates on the cage and the crowd goes wild!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Alfonz Novak!

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