Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: Just Fight 2
Date: Mar 05, 2025

#R1#
Cruz scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Martin doesn't seem bothered though.
Good standup being displayed there by Martin as he connects with a hook.
Cruz throws a wild combination but nothing lands. #CL#
Cruz drives through and clinches with Martin against the cage.
Martin working aggressively here. #BC#
Cruz's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
A head kick misses from Cruz.
Cruz connects with the punch.
Cruz punishes Martin's body with a nice straight punch.
Martin cracks Cruz with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Martin fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Cruz fails with the takedown.#CL#
Cruz clinches up with Martin and pushes him back against the cage.
Cruz goes for a takedown in the clinch but Martin prevents it.
Cruz is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Martin is defending well.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.#T1#
Martin misses with a short punch on the inside.
Martin lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Cruz blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Cruz tries a body shot but Martin blocks it.
Martin throws a head punch that misses.
A nice left hand lands by Martin. #BC#
Cruz pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Cruz on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Martin tries to clinch up.
Cruz jabs at Martin's body.#TD#
Cruz scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.

Martin throws Cruz to one side and escapes!
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!
Cruz avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Martin misses with an uppercut.
A thudding body kick lands there by Cruz!
Martin keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Martin is looking for the big counter here.#T2##CL#
Cruz moves into the clinch.#BC#
Cruz breaks from the clinch.
Cruz throws a chopping leg kick but Martin manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Martin looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Cruz paws at his opponent with the jab and then lunges in with a straight, right on the button.
Cruz scores with a jab to the body.
Cruz digs a good body shot into Martin's ribs.
Martin swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Cruz connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Pablo Martin is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Cruz throws a hook but Martin avoids it easily.
A nice side step and Martin releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Cruz ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.#CL#
Cruz moves into the clinch successfully. #BC#
Cruz breaks the clinch.
Martin connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Cruz's hands.
Cruz pushes forward with a 1-2 combination that forces Martin back to the cage. Cruz follows up with a solid lead hook to the liver.#CUT#It looks like Pablo Martin has been cut.#TD#
Martin gets caught napping as Cruz dives in and scores a takedown. Martin manages to retain guard.#T3#
Cruz wants to control from the top but Martin keeps moving.
Martin looking to control.
Cruz 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.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Martin keeps moving.
Cruz throws a strike but Martin rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVB#
Cruz looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Martin is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Martin postures up. #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.
Martin stopping the sweep attempt from Cruz.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cruz is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Martin stopping the sweep attempt from Cruz.#SUB#
Cruz looking for a guillotine here but Martin defends easily. #ES#
Cruz has scooted to the edge of the canvas and used the cage to get back to his feet. Martin has stuck on his opponent and is forcing him back against the cage.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Martin.
Martin tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Pablo Martin's cut.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Martin misses with a series of wild punches.
Cruz thinks about countering with a body kick.
Cruz walks into a left hand.
Cruz ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Cruz scores with the left hand. Martin knows he should have avoided that one. #CL#
Cruz clinches.
Cruz gets an overhook and lands an elbow to the side of the head. #TD#
Cruz gets the body lock takedown. After a quick scramble, Martin regains guard.
Martin is adopting a defensive guard.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Martin is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cruz throws a big right hand that misses. #T1#
Cruz is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Cruz loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Cruz throws an elbow that misses. Martin uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Cruz's guard. Nice move by Martin!#REVB#
Cruz not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Cruz throwing some rather feeble looking strikes off his back.
Cruz thows some rabbit punches from the bottom but they don't do any damage.
Cruz wants to improve his position but instead Martin has moved into half guard.
Martin slows the pace down in half guard.
Cruz is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #T2#
Cruz works his way to full guard. Good work.
Martin stopping the sweep attempt from Cruz.
Cruz is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Martin can do to turn this around?
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Cruz holds on and takes a little breather.
Martin prevents Cruz from getting back to his feet.
Cruz is trying to control the position from the bottom.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.
Cruz looking for a sweep. Not yet Cruz, not yet.
Martin's corner is telling him to maintain position.#REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.#T3##TD#
Cruz throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Martin tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Cruz is in Martin's guard.
Cruz in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Cruz's corner is telling him to maintain position.
Cruz postures up in Martin's guard and throws a big left but Martin blocks it.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Martin is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
We've been hearing that Cruz has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Cruz throws a strike but Martin rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top. #REVB#
Martin is fighting to break Cruz's control of his arms but Cruz is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
Cruz looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Cruz looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Cruz working a defensive guard here. #T4#
Cruz wants to sweep but no luck.
Cruz manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Martin manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
Cruz won't allow Martin to sweep him here.
Cruz throwing strikes but missing.
Cruz postures up in Martin's guard and throws a big left but Martin blocks it.
Ricardo Cruz overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Cruz's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Cruz 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.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Pablo Martin's cut.
That's time! Cruz's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. And we move into the final round!#R3#
Cruz throws a body shot but no joy.
Martin avoids the body shot from Cruz.
Martin looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Cruz tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Martin swivels and escapes.
Cruz closes the distance and clinches up with Martin, looking for a takedown. Cruz pushes Martin against the cage but Martin circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Martin is looking for the big counter here.
Cruz darts in looking for a takedown but Martin gets double underhooks and turns Cruz into the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
A head punch on the inside from Martin fails to land.
Cruz is looking to take this one to the mat.
Martin fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Martin swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Cruz has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Martin is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
Martin misses with some punches.
Cruz tries to land knees in the clinch but Martin avoids the damage to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz is working for takedown but Martin is calmly controlling the position for now.
Cruz is trying to drag Martin to the mat but Martin just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Martin lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Cruz backwards.
A nice right hand lands inside from Martin.
Martin tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage. #T1#
Cruz jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Martin walks away with a smile on his face. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
Martin tries to check a leg kick but that clearly hurt him.
Martin slaps away a takedown attempt from Cruz, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Martin lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Cruz at a distance.
Martin stumbles momentarily as he takes a strong leg kick from Cruz.
Cruz misses the shot to the body.
Martin looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Martin checks a leg kick.
Cruz throws a right hand that misses
and Martin connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Martin uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Cruz.
Martin doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Martin misses with a hook.
Martin avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Pablo Martin has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
Martin scores with a sloppy right hand. Cruz should have avoided that one.
Cruz looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Martin looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Martin throws a jab but it's blocked by Cruz.
Cruz misses with a straight right.
Martin avoids the body shot from Cruz.
Cruz just misses with a punch to the body.
Martin tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Cruz was well out of range. Poor timing from Martin.
Cruz lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Ricardo Cruz is winning the standup battle so far.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Today's fight clock is brought to you by... OOOH that's a huge shot by Martin! Cruz is in big trouble here - the ref steps in to save him and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:45 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Pablo Martin!
A very excited looking Pablo Martin made sure he remembered to thank all the fans both in the arena and on the internet. He said all the coolest people spend all day on MMA websites, which got a big reaction.

Event: SPPS Resurrection 018
Date: Dec 28, 2024

#R1#
Cruz walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Blanc checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side. #CL2#
Cruz closes the distance and pushes Blanc back into the cage.#TD2#
Cruz ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Cruz no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard. #ES2#
Cruz is edging up against the cage. He's using the cage to get back to his feet. Nice work there - the fighters are clinched.
Blanc slows down the pace here.
Blanc misses with a punch on the inside.
Cruz is trying to drag Blanc to the mat but Blanc just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Blanc misses with a hook from the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz is trying to pull guard but Blanc has him pressed against the cage.
Cruz displaying some good clinch control by pressing Blanc up against the cage.
Cruz is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Blanc gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Michel Blanc has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.#T1#
Cruz blocks a knee to the body. He'll have a nicely bruised forearm in the morning.
Cruz tries to score a body lock takedown but Blanc shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Blanc tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Cruz avoids it.#TD2#
Cruz has moved round to his opponent's back and is looking for a suplex! Oh snap! He's tossed Blanc clear over his head and slammed him to the mat!

Blanc is trying to shake Cruz off. He's managed it and has hopped back to his feet! Cruz won't be happy about giving up the dominant position.
Cruz throws a low kick but Blanc avoids it.
Blanc throws a head kick that looked like it stung.
Cruz bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Blanc'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!
Blanc throws a leg kick which misses Cruz's front leg but catches the back leg as Cruz tries to avoid it.
Cruz avoids a kick to the body.
Cruz shoots and misses
and Blanc connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Blanc doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Cruz stuns Blanc with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Cruz punishes Blanc's body with a nice straight punch.
A looping hook to the body misses from Cruz. Blanc does a little dance to reset his feet.#T2#
Cruz misses with a takedown
and Blanc counters with a huge left! Cruz is in big trouble! He's backing up but Blanc isn't giving him chance to recover. Under a barage of punches the ref has to step in to save Cruz from any more damage. A dominating finish by Blanc!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:09 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Michel Blanc!
A victorious Michel Blanc thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

Event: SPPS Resurrection 015
Date: Dec 07, 2024

#R1#
Cruz shoots and misses
enabling Taylor to counter with a crisp jab.
Cruz is looking to clinch.
Taylor seemed to be looking to counter by closing the distance.
Cruz swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Taylor takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Cruz misses with a head kick.
A quick step to the side and Taylor tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Cruz throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Taylor is looking to counter the offense by Cruz and move into the clinch.
Cruz changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Cruz cracks Taylor with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
Nice straight punches there by Cruz. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Cruz.
A good leg kick by Cruz.
Taylor looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Cruz throws a lazy head kick
and Taylor counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Cruz scores with a hook to the body. Taylor takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Cruz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Taylor. #T1#
Cruz swings widly with a right hand
and Taylor counters with a left to the body.
Cruz tries to clinch up.
Cruz connects with a body shot.
Cruz pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Taylor is looking to counter with a shot to the body.#CL2#
Cruz closes the distance and clinches.
Cruz wants a takedown but no success here.
Taylor misses with a hook to the ribs.
Cruz changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Taylor fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Charles Taylor has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Cruz, as that shot connected.
Taylor takes a jab right on the kisser.
Taylor avoids the clinch attempt nicely. #T2#
Cruz ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Taylor moves away.
Cruz lands with a nice body punch.
Cruz looks to score with a jab to the body but Taylor is just out of range.
Taylor was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Nice sprawl there from Taylor as Cruz shoots in.
Cruz fails with an attempt to clinch.
Cruz tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Taylor swivels and escapes.
Taylor swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cruz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Taylor.
Taylor throwing a counter right hand but Cruz manages to avoid it.
Cruz tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Taylor was well out of range. Poor timing from Cruz.#CL2#
Cruz clinches up against the cage.
Taylor lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Cruz backwards.
Cruz is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Taylor lands a hook to the side of the head.
Cruz drops to a knee looking for a takedown but Taylor gets the underhooks and prevents it.
Taylor tries to throw a body punch but Cruz avoids it by throwing Taylor back against the cage. #T3#
Cruz is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Taylor pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Taylor can't find room to land a body shot as Cruz controls the action.
Cruz drops down for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Taylor is leaning against Cruz and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Cruz looks winded!
Cruz working hard to break the clinch.
Taylor blocks an uppercut.
Taylor can't find room to land a body shot as Cruz controls the action.
A short right from Taylor.
Cruz blocks a body shot from Taylor.
Cruz has Taylor pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Taylor manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Taylor misses with a body punch.
Taylor tries a body shot but Cruz blocks it.
A right handed body shot lands from Taylor.
Taylor lands a nice uppercut.
Taylor lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage. #ROC#Cruz is rocked!
Taylor presses Cruz against the cage and delivers a mid-strength body shot.
Taylor lands a hook that snaps the head of Cruz backwards.
Cruz is still on wobbly legs! Can Taylor finish him?#T4#
Taylor is leaning against Cruz and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Taylor lands a big right hand that drops Cruz! The killer instinct kicks in and Taylor finishes his opponent with a series of strikes from mount. A dominating finish by Taylor!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:10 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Charles Taylor!
Our winner, Charles Taylor, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.

Event: SPPS Resurrection 011
Date: Nov 09, 2024

#R1#
Szabolcs looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Cruz stuns Szabolcs with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Szabolcs takes a swing at Cruz's ribcage but misses.
Cruz doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Cruz looks to land a body kick but Szabolcs moved away.
A little feinted left hand from Szabolcs on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Cruz throws a one two combo. #CUT2#It looks like Balogh Szabolcs has been cut.
Cruz swings widly with a right hand
and Szabolcs counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Cruz has a takedown stuffed.#TD2#
Cruz changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Szabolcs looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Cruz scoring with punches from side control.
Szabolcs tries to buck Cruz off but Cruz is having none of it.
Cruz landing a few strikes.
Cruz working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter. #T1#
Cruz wants to lay and pray for a moment but Szabolcs keeps working.
Cruz might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Szabolcs haven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.
Cruz misses with the ground and pound.
Szabolcs tries to improve position but can't.
Szabolcs avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Cruz.
Cruz trying to control the position but Szabolcs is working away. #T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Szabolcs tries to improve position but can't.
Cruz in side control, throwing shots but Szabolcs defends.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Szabolcs is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Cruz working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Cruz is staying tight to Szabolcs's torso, preventing him from escaping.
Cruz in side control lands a decent elbow.
Szabolcs managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Cruz.
Cruz remains in side control and seems content to stay there. It's a versatile position from which he can work both strikes and submissions, whilst maintaining that control, so maybe he'll sit here for a while.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Szabolcs is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #T3#
Cruz with the ground and pound but Szabolcs regains half guard under the barage of strikes. #SUB2#
Cruz seems to be working for a kimura but Szabolcs defends the submission attempt.
Cruz wants to control but Szabolcs is keeping him busy.
Cruz throwing shots but Szabolcs is blocking nicely.
Cruz sitting and controlling from the half guard. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Cruz wants to lay and pray for a moment but Szabolcs keeps working.
Cruz takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Szabolcs is holding on to half guard well.
Szabolcs is staying active underneath Cruz, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
The referee calls for the fighters to work. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz moves out of range as Szabolcs throws a body kick.
Cruz misses with a shot to the body
and Szabolcs counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Cruz getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Balogh Szabolcs's cut.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!#R2#
Cruz changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Szabolcs tries to avoid it but Cruz manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Szabolcs to the ground. Szabolcs escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Szabolcs scores with a push kick.
Balogh Szabolcs is winning the standup battle so far.
Cruz thows a leg kick but Szabolcs checks it
and Szabolcs counters with a nice kick to the body.
Cruz with the inside leg kick.
Szabolcs fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Cruz manages to avoid it.
Cruz misses with a series of wild punches.
Nice shot lands for Cruz.
Cruz throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Szabolcs stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Szabolcs lands a nice looking body shot. #TD2#
Cruz closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Cruz missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Szabolcs preventing any damage for now, controlling his opponent's head.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Szabolcs is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #T1#
Cruz looks to land a strike but Szabolcs avoids it nicely and regains full guard.
Cruz throwing strikes from guard but Szabolcs blocks nicely.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Szabolcs is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Szabolcs working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cruz. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Szabolcs keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Cruz throws out a loose jab but Szabolcs uses good head movement to avoid it.
Cruz throws a wild body kick that Szabolcs sees coming a mile off.
Szabolcs misses with a body shot.
Cruz throws a nice looking combination but Szabolcs bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
We've been told by Szabolcs's head coaches at Savage Gym that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Cruz connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Cruz throws a low kick but his opponent is out of range.
It appears Szabolcs was looking to counter with a kick there.
Cruz jabs Szabolcs to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Cruz has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Szabolcs showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Cruz.
Szabolcs is looking to land body kicks.#T3#
Szabolcs looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Szabolcs throws a push kick but Cruz slaps the foot to one side.
Cruz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Szabolcs.
An attempted straight right counter from Szabolcs misses the target.
Cruz closes this distance looking for a takedown but Szabolcs circles away.
Cruz looks to throw the jab but Szabolcs is out of range.
Cruz fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Cruz wants to clinch up but Szabolcs keeps it at a distance.
Thud! ouch! good body kick from Szabolcs - that will leave a mark!
Cruz is breathing heavily.
Cruz has a nice red mark on his side after a thudding body kick by Szabolcs.
Cruz blocks the body kick. #CL2#
Cruz closes the distance and clinches.
Cruz lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Cruz goes for a takedown attempt but Szabolcs pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
Balogh Szabolcs has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Cruz tries to work over Szabolcs's front leg with a kick but Szabolcs checks it.
Szabolcs swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.#T4#
Szabolcs lands a nice shot to the body.
Szabolcs throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Szabolcs throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Cruz stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
A decent looking body kick lands there for Szabolcs.
Cruz moves out of range as Szabolcs throws a body kick.
Szabolcs throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
And Cruz tries to counter it with a takedown but Szabolcs pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Cruz looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Cruz takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?
Cruz moves out of range of the body kick from Szabolcs.
Cruz wants to clinch.
The fighters circle momentarily. Szabolcs darts into range and connects with a nice straight punch.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Balogh Szabolcs will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Balogh Szabolcs's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. So, we enter the final round. Let's see if either fighter can bring us a finish, or whether we're going to the judges scorecards.#R3#
Cruz shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Szabolcs defends it nicely.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Szabolcs.
Today's fight clock is brought to you by... OOOH that's a huge shot by Szabolcs! Cruz is in big trouble here - the ref steps in to save him and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:31 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Balogh Szabolcs!
Balogh Szabolcs thanked the fans post fight for their support.

Event: SPPS Resurrection 007
Date: Oct 05, 2024

#R1##TD2#
Cruz is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in T Bone's half guard.
We could do with one of the fighters taking the initiative a bit more on the ground - they're both waiting to capitalize on a mistake.
Cruz wants to take a breather but T Bone is having none of it.
Cruz takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.
Cruz throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage. #SUB2#
Cruz is looking for a kimura here.
Cruz has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Cruz moves nicely into side control.
T Bone defending against the ground and pound.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Cruz controlling from side mount.
T Bone knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Cruz on the ground.
Cruz throwing shots but missing, from side control. #T1#
T Bone dodges the ground and pound from Cruz.
Cruz scoring with punches and elbows.
An elbow from Cruz crashes against the mat.
Cruz sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but T Bone is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Cruz taking a breather here.
T Bone takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Cruz postures up a little and throws a couple of hammerfists but they don't connect properly.
T Bone on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if T Bone tries to get out of the position.
T Bone is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Cruz has just dragged him back down to the mat.#T2#
Cruz wants to control but T Bone is keeping him busy.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz scores with a couple of short elbows.
The strikes coming from Cruz are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
T Bone being controlled for a moment.
T Bone is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.
Cruz wants to lay and pray for a moment but T Bone keeps working.
T Bone managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Cruz. #T3#
Cruz is pausing for a moment. What's he doing? It looks like he's clearing his nose. Oh dude! He's shot a load of snot all down T Bone's shoulder. That is not cool.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but T Bone is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Cruz working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Cruz in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
Cruz looks up at the clock and then as T Bone takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Cruz smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
The ground and pound from Cruz seems to be hitting the mat more than his opponent.
Cruz cracks T Bone with an elbow. That is naaassty.
T Bone is trying to escape and get back to his feet.
Cruz throwing shots but missing, from side control. #T4#
Cruz throwing ground and pound but whilst doing so, he forgets to control position and T Bone works his way back to half guard. Good composure under pressure.
T Bone regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Cruz.
Cruz lands a couple of elbows.
Cruz controls from within his opponent's guard.
T Bone working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cruz.
Cruz throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Cruz slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Cruz dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Cruz takes a swing at T Bone's ribcage but misses.
T Bone appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
T Bone uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Cruz.
It looked like T Bone was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Cruz.#CL2#
Cruz has closed the distance and engaged T Bone in a clinch.
Cruz has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#TD2#
Cruz has picked T Bone up - he's going for a ride! Cruz dumps his opponent to the mat with a thud and settles into half guard.
Cruz trying to control from half guard but T Bone is working away.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
T Bone tries to kick Cruz off but Cruz keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
Cruz is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz is trying to control the action in half guard but T Bone is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Cruz not throwing his punches with enough precision this time. #SUB2#
Cruz is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg. #T1#
T Bone is refusing to be controlled, as Cruz sits in half guard.
Cruz prevents T Bone from standing back up.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but T Bone is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Cruz keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.
Let's hope that Cruz has the urge to step up the pace any second now because for the last 15 or 20 seconds he's just been holding on tight.
Cruz lands with a punch from half guard. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Cruz thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed T Bone's head.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but T Bone is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Cruz looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Ground and pound from Cruz.
Cruz working over T Bone with some ground and pound. T Bone looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Cruz throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Cruz stalling.
Cruz throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
T Bone is staying active underneath Cruz, who seems content to just control the action from this position. #T3#
Cruz is figuring out what he wants to do next.
Cruz throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Ricardo Cruz has got the better of the ground game so far.
The referee calls for the fighters to work. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Cruz looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
An attempted straight right counter from T Bone misses the target.
Cruz lands with a good body shot.
Donk. Cruz catches T Bone right on the button with a cross.
Scotty T Bone is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Cruz scores with a nice one two combo and darts back out of range to avoid anything coming in the opposite direction. #TD2#
Cruz scores with a takedown into T Bone's guard.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but T Bone is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #T4#
Cruz stays in close to T Bone's body and controls the position.
Cruz cracks T Bone with a solid left hand.
Cruz trying to control but T Bone is working from the bottom.
Cruz stays in close to T Bone's body and controls the position.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
We're seeing a lot of stalling here from Cruz.
Cruz throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as T Bone works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! T Bone's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3#
Cruz connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
We've been told by T Bone's head coaches at Steel Penn Training Den that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Donk. Cruz catches T Bone right on the button with a cross.
Cruz is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
T Bone tries to counter with a takedown but Cruz is quick to defend against it.
Cruz tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but T Bone was well out of range. Poor timing from Cruz.
Cruz tries for a takedown but T Bone sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
T Bone tries to counter with a takedown but Cruz is quick to defend against it.
Cruz jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Cruz walks into a jab.
Cruz swings and misses with a hook to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz doesn't succeed with the takedown
and T Bone connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Cruz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from T Bone.
Cruz throws a body punch but T Bone moves out of range. #T1#
T Bone stuffs the takedown.
Scotty T Bone has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Cruz scores with a crisp jab that stopped T Bone in his tracks.
Cruz swings and misses with a shot to the body
and T Bone counters with a nice uppercut.
Cruz swings and misses with a hook to the body.
It looked like T Bone wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
T Bone avoids the body shot from Cruz.
It looked like T Bone was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Cruz.
T Bone slips under a jab.
T Bone is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
T Bone with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Cruz misses with a wild body shot.
Cruz fails to land with a series of punches.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Cruz tries to clinch up but T Bone circles away and keeps his distance.
T Bone appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Cruz scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
T Bone on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Cruz is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down T Bone rather than just go for the knockout.#T2#
Good work by T Bone as he checks the leg kick.
Cruz misses with a body punch
and T Bone counters with a nice uppercut.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cruz misses with a wild body shot.
T Bone appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Cruz throws a leg kick but T Bone checks it.
Cruz sizes up T Bone with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Cruz has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Cruz on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot.
Cruz misses the shot to the body.
T Bone swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Cruz throws a leg kick but T Bone sees it coming and moves out of range.
Donk. T Bone catches Cruz right on the button with a cross.
Donk. T Bone catches Cruz right on the button with a cross.
Cruz throws out a loose jab but T Bone uses good head movement to avoid it.
T Bone appears to be looking for a big counter.#T3#
Cruz misses with a left hand
letting T Bone counter with a right hand.
Cruz is looking to clinch but T Bone is avoiding it.
Cruz connects with a jab.
T Bone takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
T Bone has a nice red mark on his side after a thudding body kick by Cruz.
T Bone circles away from the clinch attempt.
T Bone feinted with a counter takedown.
Cruz loads up on a big right hand but T Bone slips the punch.
Cruz swings for the body but T Bone moves out of range.
T Bone changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Cruz takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Cruz tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. T Bone manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
It looked like T Bone wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
T Bone defending well as Cruz loads up on a big left hand.
Cruz cracks a nice hook into T Bone's ribs.#T4#
Cruz moves in looking to clinch but T Bone pushes him off.
Cruz lands the left hand.
T Bone jabs Cruz to the body, keeping him at a distance.
This has been an exciting period of action!
A shot to the body from Cruz misses
and T Bone counters with a right hand to the body.
Cruz works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
A punch combination from Cruz misses.
Cruz wants to clinch
and T Bone connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
T Bone misses with a wild body shot.
Cruz looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? T Bone is fending him off so far but Cruz persists. Nope, T Bone circles away and we're back to standing.
T Bone feinted with a counter takedown.
Ricardo Cruz is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Cruz throws a hook but T Bone avoids it easily.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Ricardo Cruz.
Well Cruz has outworked and out performed his opponent in all aspects of the game today. He was simply too good and the decision should be no more than a formality. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ben Hemmingworth scores the fight 27:30
Judge Winston Howard scores the fight 27:30
Judge John Mangel scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ricardo Cruz!

Event: SPPS Resurrection 004
Date: Sep 14, 2024

#R1#
Buryckin misses with a takedown attempt - Cruz sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.#TD#
Buryckin shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Cruz's guard.
Cruz lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cruz trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Cruz postures up in Buryckin's guard and throws a big left but Buryckin blocks it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB#
Buryckin has his foot on Cruz's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Cruz works his way back into a safe position though.
Buryckin being controlled here, momentarily.
Buryckin pulls Cruz in close to prevent any damage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Cruz accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Cruz throwing strikes but missing. #T1#
Cruz scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Buryckin is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Buryckin pulls Cruz in to control the position.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Buryckin keeps moving.
Buryckin controlling the position.
Buryckin manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Cruz manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
Cruz is trying to control the position from the bottom. #SUB2#
Cruz throwing his legs up looking for a triangle. #T2#
Cruz controlling the position.
Buryckin won't allow Cruz to sweep him here.
Cruz controls Buryckin momentarily but Buryckin frees himself.
Buryckin content to stall in guard here.
Buryckin stopping the sweep attempt from Cruz.
Cruz throws a couple of shots from the bottom but they don't land. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Cruz stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Nice sprawl there from Cruz as Buryckin shoots in.#T3#
Buryckin shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Cruz but Cruz pushes him off and we're back to square one.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Matvey Buryckin. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz scores with a body shot. #TD2#
Cruz looking to score a takedown here. Buryckin is defending well but Cruz drives through and ends up in Buryckin's guard.#SUB#
Buryckin is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Cruz looking to sit in guard and control but Buryckin gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR#
Buryckin tries to free his leg and advance position but Cruz is retaining full guard.
Buryckin sitting in guard here, content to control.
Cruz is looking to stand up but Buryckin isn't so interested in that idea.
Cruz lands a beautiful sweep and he's now moved into his opponent's guard.#REVB#
Cruz wants to control from the top but Buryckin keeps moving. #T4#
Buryckin trying to keep a closed guard but Cruz is proving a slippery customer.
Cruz's corner is telling him to maintain position.
Buryckin working a defensive guard here.
Cruz is working Buryckin over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Buryckin wants to sweep but no luck.
Buryckin is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Buryckin keeps moving.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Buryckin shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Cruz as he jumps to the side. #TD2#
A momentary lapse in concentration from Buryckin enables Cruz to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Buryckin manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Buryckin keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Buryckin utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Buryckin working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cruz.
Buryckin can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cruz controls the pace.
Cruz postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz with a nice head shot there.
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses.
Cruz with a flurry of punches that miss.
Cruz throwing strikes but missing.
Cruz postures up in Buryckin's guard and throws a big left but Buryckin blocks it. #T1#
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses.
Buryckin can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cruz controls the pace.
Cruz must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Buryckin pulls Cruz in close to prevent any damage.
Cruz is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
We must be close to a standup if these guys don't pick up the pace.
Buryckin wants to sweep but no luck. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Buryckin fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Buryckin fails with a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Matvey Buryckin. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Jab, jab by Cruz - just one landing.
Cruz connects with a body shot that sends Buryckin's belly button to the back.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Buryckin shoots in but no luck this time. #T2#
Buryckin takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Cruz fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Buryckin looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Buryckin tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Cruz defends well and Buryckin ends up having to push Cruz into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.#TD2#
Cruz is working on a single leg takedown against the cage. Buryckin can't fight it off and eventually Cruz manages to take the fight to the floor. Buryckin looks annoyed but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Cruz trying to control but Buryckin is working from the bottom.
Cruz 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.
Buryckin managing to control the position.
Cruz in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time. #T3#
Buryckin looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Cruz loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Cruz has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Cruz is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.
Cruz is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Buryckin is trying to control the position but Cruz postures up.
Cruz with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Cruz is looking to work some ground and pound but Buryckin has wrist control.
Buryckin is pulling down on Cruz's head to control his posture.
Ricardo Cruz has got the better of the ground game so far.
Cruz lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Buryckin is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage. #T4#
Cruz in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Cruz 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.
Buryckin controls Cruz momentarily but Cruz frees himself. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Nice jab there from Cruz.
Buryckin takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Buryckin misses with a takedown attempt - Cruz sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Cruz jabs at Buryckin's body.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Buryckin's head.
Cruz works Buryckin's body with a nice hook.
Buryckin shoots in for a takedown but Cruz shows good takedown defense.
A good leg kick by Cruz.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!#CL2#
Cruz closes the distance and clinches.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Buryckin's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3#
Buryckin needs to keep his hands up - Cruz had a free shot at his head there.
Cruz lands a jab, followed by a cross and another cross, as Buryckin backs up against the cage. #TD2#
Buryckin gets caught flat footed, as Cruz shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Buryckin is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cruz slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Cruz accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Cruz throwing strikes from guard but Buryckin blocks nicely.
Buryckin is pulling down on Cruz's head to control his posture.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Cruz's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Cruz lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.#T1#
Buryckin keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Cruz might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Buryckin haven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.
Cruz throws a big elbow that misses.
Buryckin keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Buryckin managing to control the position. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Cruz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Buryckin. #CL2#
Cruz drives through and clinches with Buryckin against the cage.
Buryckin misses with a hook to the ribs.
Cruz tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Cruz has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Buryckin after a bit of a struggle.
Matvey Buryckin has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2##BC#
Buryckin's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Buryckin throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Cruz's waist but Cruz gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Buryckin off to one side.
Cruz is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Buryckin rather than just go for the knockout.
Buryckin takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Buryckin fails with the takedown.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.#TD2#
Cruz darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Cruz throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Cruz missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Cruz not doing much here.
Buryckin wants to get back to full guard.#T3#
Buryckin is not content to let Cruz control the position.
Buryckin is trying to maintain the position but Cruz is very close to passing his half guard.
Cruz is trying to control. Buryckin wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Cruz sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Buryckin defending well though.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Cruz lands a nice short elbow.
Cruz scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Cruz working the head and body with strikes.
Buryckin is not content to let Cruz control the position.#T4#
Buryckin taking some punishment here, with Cruz in his half guard.
Cruz takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Cruz wants to control but Buryckin is keeping him busy.
Cruz not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Cruz wants to control but Buryckin is keeping him busy.
Buryckin trying to control but Cruz postures up.
Cruz not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Buryckin trying to control here.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Buryckin is trying to control but can't.
Buryckin blocking the ground and pound attempt from Cruz.
Ricardo Cruz is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Cruz takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.#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!
Ricardo Cruz comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Cruz has outworked and out performed his opponent in all aspects of the game today. He was simply too good and the decision should be no more than a formality. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Summer Carpenter scores the fight 26:30
Judge Topper Green scores the fight 26:30
Judge Winston Howard scores the fight 26:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ricardo Cruz!

Event: SPPS Resurrection 001
Date: Aug 17, 2024

#R1#
Cruz chopping away at his opponent's legs.
A solid body kick from Szabolcs.
Szabolcs throws the left hand but Cruz avoids the punch easily.
Cruz flicks out a counter leg kick but Szabolcs steps away.
Cruz fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Szabolcs checks it well.
Szabolcs swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt - Szabolcs sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Szabolcs scores with a jab.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Szabolcs napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Szabolcs is looking to reverse the position.
Cruz throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Cruz misses with the ground and pound.
Szabolcs struggling a bit here.
Szabolcs isn't going anywhere.
Szabolcs avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Cruz.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T1#
Cruz controls the position.
Szabolcs managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Cruz.
The strikes coming from Cruz are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
Szabolcs is looking for a sweep.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Szabolcs is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Szabolcs tries to get back to half guard but can't.
An elbow from Cruz crashes against the mat.
Cruz in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Cruz is trying to ground and pound but Szabolcs uses the momentary lack of control by Cruz to regain half guard.
Szabolcs knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Cruz on the ground.
Cruz is trying to control. Szabolcs wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Szabolcs blocking the ground and pound attempt from Cruz.
Cruz throwing shots but Szabolcs is blocking nicely.
Szabolcs is not content to let Cruz control the position.#REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Szabolcs avoids the body shot from Cruz.
Szabolcs is looking to counter with head kicks.
Cruz takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
We've been told by Szabolcs's head coaches at Gentlemens Club that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Cruz blocks a jab.
Cruz smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.#T3#
Szabolcs jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Cruz just misses with a punch to the body.
Szabolcs takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Szabolcs lands with a nice body kick.
Cruz misses with a hook to the body
and Szabolcs counters with a nice uppercut. #ROC#Cruz is rocked!
Szabolcs explodes with a nice body kick and back out of range. Nice work.
Cruz is still on wobbly legs! Can Szabolcs finish him?
Cruz looks winded!
Szabolcs darts in and lands a big hook, right on the button! Cruz's legs crumble underneath him as he falls to the canvas! The ref tackles Szabolcs before he gets to land any more shots to his stricken foe.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:30 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Balogh Szabolcs!
A relieved looking Balogh Szabolcs thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

Event: NYF Fight Night 33
Date: Jun 28, 2024

#R1#
Cruz fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Zhanbolatov avoids it really well and circles away.
Zhanbolatov lands a really nice looking cross but Cruz seems unphased.
Cruz swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Zhanbolatov swings for the body but Cruz moves out of range.
Cruz throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Zhanbolatov misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Cruz.
Zhanbolatov walks into a jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
Cruz tries to score a power double leg takedown but Zhanbolatov sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Cruz somewhat.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.#T1#
Cruz misses with a shot to the body
and Zhanbolatov counters with a straight right hand.#ROC2#Cruz is rocked!
Beibitzhan Zhanbolatov is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Cruz tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Zhanbolatov defends well and Cruz ends up having to push Zhanbolatov into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Zhanbolatov looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Oh Cruz is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Zhanbolatov lands an uppercut.
Zhanbolatov dips a shoulder and cracks Cruz with a mighty uppercut! Cruz falls back against the cage and Zhanbolatov unloads with a barrage of strikes! Cruz is completely out with his eyes open, only supported by the cage! Save him ref! Eventually the ref decides to do his job and jumps in - Zhanbolatov screams abuse at the incompetent official before going over to celebrate with his corner. Brutal stuff!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:19 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Beibitzhan Zhanbolatov!
A relieved looking Beibitzhan Zhanbolatov thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

Event: NYF Fight Night 31
Date: May 31, 2024

#R1#
Georgijevic takes a jab right on the kisser.
Georgijevic keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Cruz.
Georgijevic was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Cruz scores with a jab to the body.
Georgijevic takes a jab right on the kisser.
Cruz moves out of range as Georgijevic throws a body kick.
We've been told by Georgijevic's head coaches at Blacktalians MMA that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Georgijevic displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Cruz throws out the jab.
Cruz with a poor takedown
and Georgijevic counters with a straight right hand.
Cruz lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Cruz.
Cruz throws a body shot but no joy.
Cruz scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Georgijevic pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Cruz digs a good body shot into Georgijevic's ribs.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Georgijevic keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Georgijevic is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Cruz.
Nice straight punches there by Cruz. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Cruz.#T1#
Cruz comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Cruz moves out of range of the body kick.
Cruz looks to score with a jab to the body but Georgijevic is just out of range.
No joy there for Cruz, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Cruz displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Georgijevic throws out the jab.
Cruz lands a head shot.
Georgijevic defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Cruz.
Drago Georgijevic has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Cruz throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
It looked like Georgijevic wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Georgijevic throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Cruz sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Cruz slips a jab from Georgijevic.
Some wild striking there from Cruz.
A punch combination from Cruz misses.
It looked like Georgijevic wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Cruz connects with a jab.
Cruz looks to score with a jab to the body but Georgijevic is just out of range.#T2#
Cruz digs a good body shot into Georgijevic's ribs.
Cruz has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Georgijevic takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Good shot there by Cruz.
Jab, jab by Cruz - just one landing.
Georgijevic connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Cruz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Georgijevic.
Cruz is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Georgijevic manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
Georgijevic pulls Cruz in close to his closed guard and prevents Cruz from doing any damage or advancing position.
Cruz slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Georgijevic knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Cruz on the ground.
Georgijevic avoiding any damage from the ground and pound. #T3#
Georgijevic utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Cruz throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz trying to control but Georgijevic is working from the bottom.
Cruz 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.
Georgijevic is pulling down on Cruz's head. It's preventing any offense from Cruz, at least for the moment.#REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Cruz ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Georgijevic moves away.
Georgijevic throws a quick counter kick to the body but Cruz avoids it.
Cruz is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Georgijevic sprawls well. Georgijevic wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Cruz gets slowly back to his feet.#T4##TD2#
Cruz shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Cruz showed some decent athleticism there.
Georgijevic blocking the ground and pound attempt from Cruz. #SUB2#
Georgijevic is defending against the submission attempts here by Cruz.
Georgijevic has hold of Cruz's hands but Cruz slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Cruz takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Cruz stalling.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R2#
Georgijevic moves his head to the side to avoid a jab but walks straight into a cross.
Cruz ducks under a wild hook from Georgijevic.
Nice defenses there by Cruz.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Georgijevic. Cruz shrugs it off though.
Cruz slips a straight right by Georgijevic.
Georgijevic swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Georgijevic doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Georgijevic uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Cruz.
Georgijevic swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Georgijevic waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Cruz.
Cruz tries to clinch but fails miserably
and Georgijevic counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Cruz on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Cruz with a lazy takedown attempt
and Georgijevic counters with a nice body kick.
Cruz misses with a takedown
and Georgijevic scores with a counter punch that sends Cruz to the canvas! Georgijevic smells blood - he's punishing Cruz with more strikes and the ref has stopped it! Cruz has no idea where he is - he's tackled the ref... oh dear, poor guy, the crowd is in hysterics!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:59 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Drago Georgijevic!
A victorious Drago Georgijevic thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

Event: NYF Fight Night 29
Date: May 08, 2024

#R1#
Cruz with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Ramsey tries to clinch up but Cruz circles away and keeps his distance.
Ramsey ducks under a wild hook from Cruz.
Cruz circles away from the clinch attempt.
Ramsey throws a head kick that connects with a bit of head and a bit of hand.
Ramsey tries a head kick but it misses.
Cruz throws a good cross that connects.
Cruz swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Ramsey wants to take advantage of his opponent's missed offense by moving into the clinch.
A low kick from Cruz misses
and Ramsey counters with a nice body kick.
Cruz cracks Ramsey with an open hand slap.
Cruz throws out a loose jab but Ramsey uses good head movement to avoid it.
Cruz 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.
Cruz drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Cruz throws a looping overhand right but Ramsey ducks down to avoid it.
Cruz misses with a hook.
Cruz throws a body punch but Ramsey moves out of range. #TD2#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
Cruz sitting in guard here, content to control.
Ramsey controlling Cruz's posture. #T1#
Cruz controls from within his opponent's guard.
Ramsey is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Cruz lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Cruz in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Ramsey controls Cruz momentarily but Cruz frees himself.
Ramsey on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Ramsey tries to get out of the position.
Cruz 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.
Cruz landing some decent shots from guard. #T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Ramsey utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Cruz is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Cruz postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Cruz not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters, thinking about a standup.#REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.#T3#
Cruz throws the left hand but Ramsey avoids the punch easily.
Ramsey misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Cruz walks into a left hand.
Cruz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ramsey.
Ramsey misses with a body kick.
Cruz doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Ramsey circles away easily
and Ramsey counters with a nice kick to the body.
Cruz misses the jab.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in and gets a takedown into Ramsey's guard.#SUB2#
Cruz drops back looking for a leg! Ramsey is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Ramsey manages to kick Cruz off! Cruz jumps back into Ramsey's guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz with a nice head shot there.
Cruz stays in close to Ramsey's body and controls the position.
Ramsey is trying to control the position but Cruz postures up. #T4#
Cruz stands up over Ramsey, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Ramsey knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Cruz on the ground.
Cruz is stalling in the full guard.
Ramsey not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Cruz throwing strikes from guard but Ramsey blocks nicely.
Cruz looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Cruz tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Ramsey was well out of range. Poor timing from Cruz.
As Cruz tries to get set, Ramsey tries to push him back and clinch up but Cruz manages to avoid the attempt.
Cruz misses the shot to the body.
Cruz takes a swing at Ramsey's ribcage but misses.
Ramsey swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Ramsey tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Ramsey is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Ramsey throws a sloppy head kick and Cruz moves out of range easily.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
Cruz working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Cruz makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.#SUB2#
Cruz is trying to work a guillotine from the top, or something like that? Don't know how he thinks he's going to get a finish from there.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Cruz sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Cruz with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.#T1#
Cruz sitting in guard here, content to control.
Ricardo Cruz has got the better of the ground game so far.
Ramsey working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cruz.
Cruz working some strikes from top position.
Cruz controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Cruz chips away with some ground and pound.
Ramsey wants to sweep here but Cruz controlling him for the moment.
Cruz working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Ramsey's head.
Cruz is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact. #T2#
Ramsey working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cruz.
Cruz working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Ramsey has momentary wrist control but Cruz slips an elbow through the middle.
Cruz 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.
Ramsey controls Cruz momentarily but Cruz frees himself.
Cruz's corner is telling him to maintain position.
Cruz working some strikes from top position.#T3#
Cruz keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Ramsey's head.
Cruz controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Ramsey trying to control the position.
Cruz connects with a couple of short punches.
Cruz is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Cruz has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Cruz is in close to Ramsey's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Ramsey has momentary wrist control but Cruz slips an elbow through the middle.#T4#
Ramsey is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Cruz controlling from the top position.
Cruz postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Cruz not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Cruz is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Cruz distracts Ramsey with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Cruz engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz 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#
Cruz scores with a decent looking hook.
Ramsey moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Ramsey keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Cruz throws a predictable looking body shot
and Ramsey counters with a body kick that stops Cruz in his tracks momentarily. #CL#
Ramsey instigates a clinch.
Cruz has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Cruz is trying to pull guard but Ramsey turns him against the cage and we stay in the clinch.#TD2#
Cruz has double underhooks and is working for a body lock takedown. He's got it. The fighters land in half guard but Ramsey regains guard immediately.
Ramsey is trying to control the position but Cruz postures up.
Cruz works over Ramsey with some ground and pound from guard.
Cruz looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
Ramsey looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #T1#
Cruz sitting in guard, not really doing much.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Cruz's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Cruz with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Cruz distracts Ramsey with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Ramsey can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cruz controls the pace.
Cruz working some strikes from top position.
Cruz is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Cruz scores with a decent looking elbow strike.#T2#
Cruz 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.
Ramsey looking to hit a scissor sweep but Cruz is one step ahead there.
Cruz is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions. #SUB2#
Cruz thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Cruz lands a couple of digs.
Cruz controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Bernard Ramsey has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T3#
Cruz makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Ramsey being controlled here, momentarily.
Cruz working some strikes from top position.
Cruz 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.
Cruz's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.#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.
Cruz connects with a couple of short punches.
Cruz scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Ramsey utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Cruz 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.
Ramsey looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Cruz lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Ricardo Cruz is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Cruz controls from within his opponent's guard.

And that's the end of the fight!
Ricardo Cruz comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Cruz 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 Frank Antenori scores the fight 27:30
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 27:30
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Ricardo Cruz!

Event: NYF Fight Night 28
Date: Apr 26, 2024

#R1#
Cruz bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
A head kick misses from Dayton.
Cruz was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Dayton throws a sloppy head kick and Cruz moves out of range easily.
Dayton misses with a right hand
and Cruz makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Dayton tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Dayton throws a one two combo. #TD#
Cruz drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Dayton is putting a lot of effort into getting back to his feet here.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Dayton is not content to let Cruz control the position.
Dayton is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
Check out the look on Cruz's face as he threw that strike - that's one determined fighter!
Dayton avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Cruz. #T1##SUB#
Cruz tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Cruz has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Cruz working the head with strikes.
Cruz working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Dayton is not content to let Cruz control the position.
Dayton wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!
Cruz working the ground and pound but Dayton is defending the strikes.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Dayton taking punishment in the form of punches.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Dayton is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #T2##ES2#
Dayton throws Cruz to one side and escapes!
Dayton throws a chopping leg kick but Cruz manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Dayton.
Nice uppercut lands for Dayton. That snapped Cruz's head back.
Cruz blocks a head kick by Dayton.
A jab from Cruz misses.
Dayton throws a head kick that misses.
Dayton throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
A jab lands there for Cruz.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Cruz misses with a takedown attempt - Dayton sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Dayton avoids the body shot from Cruz. #T3#
A jab lands there for Cruz.
Dayton looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Nice defenses there by Dayton.
Dayton throws a lazy head kick
enabling Cruz to counter with a crisp jab.
Dayton throws the left hand but Cruz avoids the punch easily.
Cruz connects with a body shot.#TD#
Cruz fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Dayton sprawls well initially but Cruz persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Dayton pushes Cruz off looking to stand but Cruz dives back in and keeps control.
Cruz is trying to control. Dayton wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Dayton 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.
Cruz has been looking to land a fair amount of strikes on the ground. He might be looking to soften his opponent up in order to work for a submission.#SUB#
Cruz is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Still in half guard, Cruz seems content to control.
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. Cruz connects with a nice short shot to Dayton's temple. #T4#
Dayton is trying to stand up here but Cruz is controlling him well.
Cruz sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Dayton defending well though.
Dayton wants to get back to his feet.
Cruz is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Ground and pound from Cruz.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Cruz trying to control the action but Dayton is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Cruz is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Dayton tries to kick Cruz off but Cruz keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Ricardo Cruz will probably get the nod.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R2#
Cruz dives in and grabs Dayton's left leg, looking for a takedown. Dayton pushes down on Cruz's head and hops out.
Dayton throws a head kick that misses.
Cruz finds himself stumbling back on wobbly legs after being clipped by a right hand. He's up against the cage, ducking and weaving under Dayton's strikes but an uppercut finds it's way through and Cruz falls! - He's completely out of it and the ref jumps in to save him!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:12 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Xavier Dayton!

Event: NYF 61 Donal vs Vogels
Date: Apr 06, 2024

#R1#
Cruz lands a slapping body shot.
Cruz is trying hard to land a takedown here. Dean sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Cruz connects with a body shot.
Dean takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Dean scores with a body shot.
Cruz fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Dean avoids it really well and circles away.
Dean connects with a body shot that sends Cruz's belly button to the back.
Dean looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Cruz avoids the body shot from Dean.
Cruz appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
Cruz throws a big shot that misses.
Cruz avoids the body shot from Dean.
Cruz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Dean.
Nice body punch from Dean.
Dean fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Cruz manages to avoid it.
A looping hook to the body misses from Cruz. Dean does a little dance to reset his feet.
Cruz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Dean.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Cruz jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Dean swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Cruz thuds a left hand into Dean's body.#T1#
Nice body punch from Cruz.
Dean dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Dean uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Cruz.
Dean swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Cruz misses with a looping left.
Dean throws a hook but Cruz blocks it.
Cruz lands three nice shots there - that looked like it hurt!
Dean bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Cruz moves out of range as Dean throws a body kick.
Dean misses with a wild body shot.
Cruz looks to land a combination. Dean sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Cruz scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Cruz tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Dean was well out of range. Poor timing from Cruz.
Cruz throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Dean punishes Cruz's body with a nice straight punch.
Dean lands with a right hand.
Dean uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Cruz.
Cruz shoots for a takedown but Dean saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Dean was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Randall Dean has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ricardo Cruz.
Dean cracks Cruz with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Cruz misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Dean. #T2#
Dean fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Cruz manages to avoid it.
Dean misses with a body shot.
Cruz stuns Dean with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Dean slips under a jab.#KD#
Dean drops Cruz with a beautiful combination! Cruz stares up at his opponent, who ushers him back to his feet - Dean is looking for the KO!#ROC#Cruz is rocked!
Cruz throws a sloppy body shot
and Dean counters with a right hand from hell and Cruz is out cold! A vicious knockout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:24 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Randall Dean!
Randall Dean thanked the fans post fight for their support.

Event: NYF Fight Night 24
Date: Mar 15, 2024

#R1#
Cruz throws a good cross that connects.
Mallin throws a leg kick #TD2#
and Cruz counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Cruz.
Cruz is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Cruz lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Cruz's corner is telling him to maintain position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Mallin works some decent striking defense from the bottom. #SUB#
Mallin looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Cruz scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz content to stall in guard here.
Cruz has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.#T1#
Mallin trying to strike from the bottom but really, it's not the best position to be doing that from!
Cruz is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Cruz landing some decent shots from guard.
Mallin not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Cruz stands up over Mallin, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Cruz looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
Cruz landing some decent shots from guard. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Cruz lands a couple of elbows.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cruz 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.
Cruz preventing the sweep.
Cruz scoring with punches to the head and body. #SU2#
Mallin is working an open guard so Cruz takes the opportunity to get back to his feet.
Mallin tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Cruz was well out of range. Poor timing from Mallin.
Cruz throws a body punch but Mallin moves out of range.
Cruz throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Mallin jinks towards his opponent looking like he wants to counter with a mid kick but doesn't commit.#TD2#
Cruz looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
Cruz trying to control the pace. #SUB2#
Cruz is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game. #T3#
Cruz sitting and controlling from the half guard.
Mallin on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Mallin tries to get out of the position.
Cruz prevents Mallin from improving his position.
Ground and pound from Cruz.
Cruz works his way into side control.
Cruz slows the pace down.
Mallin taking a bit of punishment here - Cruz scoring with strikes. #T4#
Mallin struggling a bit here.
Cruz slows the pace down.
Cruz scoring with punches from side control. #SUB2#
Cruz is working for what looks like an arm triangle here. Mallin is trying to escape and Cruz transitions quickly into an armbar! He's slapped it on tight and Mallin is forced to tap! Nice work there by Cruz! Very nice indeed!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:44 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: NYF 53: Donal vs Ferguson II
Date: Feb 10, 2024

#R1#
Cruz swings for the body but Vogels moves out of range.
Vogels connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Vogels throws an off balance right hand
and Vogels takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Cruz throws a shot to the body.
Cruz swings and misses with a hook to the body.
A counter left hand to the body from Vogels misses its target.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Cruz is defended easily by Vogels.
Cruz keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Cruz ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Vogels takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
A jab from Cruz finds it's way through Vogels's defenses.
A shot to the body from Cruz misses #KD#
and Vogels counters with a big uppercut that knocks Cruz off his feet! Vogels dives into side control looking to finish!#ROC#Cruz is rocked!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#SUB#
Vogels tries for a kimura but Cruz is defending well.
Cruz wants to control but Vogels postures up.#T1#
Cruz is trying to improve his position.
Cruz is trying to control Vogels's posture but Vogels avoids it. #SUB#
Vogels thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead. #SUB#
Vogels working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.
Cruz manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Vogels wants to lay and pray for a moment but Cruz keeps working. #T2#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Vogels wants to pass to mount but Cruz is defending the position. #SUB#
Vogels is trying to work for a kimura but Cruz is defending well.
Vogels is thwarting Cruz's attempts to control the position.
Cruz is pressing down on Vogels's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Vogels stopping the sweep attempt from Cruz.
Vogels wants to pass the guard but Cruz is keeping the position.#T3#
Vogels in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Vogels tries to free his leg and advance position but Cruz is retaining full guard.
Vogels is working hard here to advance position.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Cruz looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Vogels swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Cruz swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Vogels slips under a jab from Cruz.
Vogels throws a head kick that misses.
Cruz throws a poor cross that misses
and Vogels counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Cruz misses with a wild combination.
Cruz throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Vogels swings and misses with a hook to the body. #T4#
Jab, jab by Vogels - just one landing.
Cruz is still on wobbly legs! Can Vogels finish him?
Vogels lands an uppercut, right on the button! Cruz tumbles backwards into the cage, staring vacantly into space! He's got no idea where he is, who he is or what day it is... Poor guy.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:11 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Oscar Vogels!
Oscar Vogels decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: NYF 51 :Traumen vs Santos
Date: Jan 27, 2024

#R1#
Cruz scores with a nice strike.
Wilkinson looks exhausted already! Oh dear, he should have come in in better shape than this!
Wilkinson takes a jab right on the kisser.
Cruz darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Nice body punch from Cruz.
A jab from Cruz does it's job there.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Cruz lands with a straight right. Wilkinson didn't see that one coming.
Wilkinson needs to keep his hands up - Cruz had a free shot at his head there.#TD2#
Cruz throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Wilkinson was covering up waiting for the punch and Cruz finishes the takedown easily into guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cruz is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Cruz's corner. There ya go! There ya go! #SUB2#
Cruz thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Cruz cracks Wilkinson with a solid left hand.#T1##SUB#
Wilkinson escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Cruz gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Cruz is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Cruz with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Cruz controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Cruz with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Cruz chips away with some ground and pound.#ROC2#Wilkinson is rocked!
Cruz showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Oh Wilkinson is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!#T2##SUB2#
Cruz drops back looking for a leg! Wilkinson is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Wilkinson manages to kick Cruz off! Cruz jumps back into Wilkinson's guard.
Wilkinson seems to have got his legs back now.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Cruz's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Cruz controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Cruz wants to control from the top but Wilkinson keeps moving.
Cruz slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard. #T3#
Cruz working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Cruz's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Cruz is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Cruz trying to control but Wilkinson is working from the bottom.
Wilkinson looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.
Wilkinson wants to sweep but no luck. #SUB#
Wilkinson looking for a guillotine here but Cruz defends easily.
Cruz 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.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.#T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Cruz has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.#TD2#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown and gets it.
Cruz slows the pace down in half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cruz's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB#
Wilkinson actively working from the bottom here.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2##TD2#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Wilkinson napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Wilkinson tries to improve position but can't. #SUB2#
Cruz is trying to get an arm triangle but Wilkinson is defending well.
Cruz cracks Wilkinson with an elbow. That is naaassty.#SUB2#
Cruz tries for a kimura but Wilkinson is defending well.
Cruz works a knee to the body and follows up with a nice elbow to the head.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz passes to full mount! That's big trouble for Wilkinson!
Ricardo Cruz has got the better of the ground game so far.
Cruz lands a shot to the body, followed up by a shot to the exposed head of his trapped opponent.
Cruz has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Wilkinson's face.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Cruz is landing with some decent strikes but Wilkinson is trying to advance his position so the referee is letting the fight continue.#T1#
Cruz content just to control the position here.
Cruz lands a couple of nice shots there from mount.
Cruz content just to control the position here.
Cruz postures up and throws a big right hand. BOOM! Right on the button! Wilkinson is out cold - huge knockout for Cruz!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:44 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Ricardo Cruz!

Event: NYF Fight Night 18
Date: Dec 29, 2023

#R1#
Dandrakulo cracks Cruz with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.
Dandrakulo feints and then cracks Cruz's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Cruz down.
Dandrakulo lands a glancing blow to the side of Cruz's head.
Dandrakulo throws a solid leg kick but Cruz takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Dandrakulo.
Nice body kick there by Dandrakulo.
Dandrakulo throws a poor cross that misses
letting Cruz counter with a right hand.
Cruz takes a swing at Dandrakulo's ribcage but misses.
We've been told by Dandrakulo's head coaches at Kalashnikov ELITE MMA Gym that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Cruz throws a hook but Dandrakulo blocks it.
Dandrakulo connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Cruz momentarily.
Cruz slips in close and lands a nice hook before moving back out of range.
Dandrakulo throws a body kick that digs right into the meat.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Dandrakulo scores with a jab.
Cruz misses with a series of wild punches.
Cruz walks forward and throws out a flicking leg kick. Dandrakulo checks it nicely though, as he moves to the side.
Dandrakulo thuds his shin into the meat of Cruz's side.
Cruz swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Dandrakulo was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Cruz lands a jab to Dandrakulo's midsection.
Cruz doesn't manage to clinch there - Dandrakulo circles away.
Cruz doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Dandrakulo ducks down and throws a hook to the body.#T1##KD#
Dandrakulo lands a left and a right that send Cruz crashing to the mat, dazed. Dandrakulo thinks about following him to the mat but decides to wave him back up to his feet!#ROC#Cruz is rocked!
Cruz walks into a picture perfect straight right hand from Dandrakulo! He's gone down face first to the canvas, unconscious before he even hit the floor! Ohhhh. My. Goodness! That boys and girls was a beautiful knockout! Give that man a biscuit!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:10 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Samson Dandrakulo!
Jumping up and down and very excited, Samson Dandrakulo waved his t-shirt featuring Conviction's logo in front of the cameras.

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Dec 03, 2023

#R1#
Cruz thows a leg kick but Tarasov checks it #TD#
and Tarasov counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Tarasov perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
Tarasov prevents Cruz from improving his position.
Cruz trying to control but Tarasov postures up.
Neither fighter is being very active at the moment, with Tarasov in particular looking to stall.
Cruz is trying to get back to full guard.
Tarasov knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Cruz on the ground.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tarasov moves nicely into side control.
Cruz tries to buck Tarasov off but Tarasov is having none of it.
Cruz struggling a bit here.
The referee asks Tarasov politely if he wouldn't mind getting on with it and actually doing something. Tarasov prefers to stall for the moment though.#T1#
Cruz is trying to improve his position.
Cruz wants to control but Tarasov postures up.
Tarasov remains in side control and seems content to stay there. It's a versatile position from which he can work both strikes and submissions, whilst maintaining that control, so maybe he'll sit here for a while.
Cruz wants to control but Tarasov postures up.
A bit of a lull in the action. I'm sure it will pick up again soon... even if the ref has to physically pick them up and put them back on their feet.
Cruz regains half guard.
Tarasov is pressing down on Cruz's thigh, looking to free his foot. Cruz is holding on for now.
Tarasov performing his best blanket impression for a moment. #T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Cruz trying to control here.
Tarasov is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Tarasov is pressing down on Cruz's thigh, looking to free his foot. Cruz is holding on for now.
Tarasov seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
Cruz trying to hold on to Tarasov's head to control him but Tarasov postures up. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Cruz connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.#T3#
Cruz misses with a jab to the body #TD#
and Tarasov counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Tarasov.
Tarasov controlling from the top position.
Cruz wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Tarasov sitting in guard here, content to control.
Tarasov stopping the sweep attempt from Cruz.#T4#
Cruz being controlled here, momentarily.
Cruz is trying to control the position from the bottom.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.#REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Cruz swings for the body but Tarasov moves out of range.
Tarasov attempts a counter takedown but Cruz avoids it well and moves away.
Cruz goes for a double leg but Tarasov avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Tarasov continues to drive forward.
Tarasov seems to be moving with more speed, compared to his last bout. He must have been working on that in the gym.
Cruz scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Cruz throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#TD2#
Cruz fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Tarasov to the ground. Cruz is now in Tarasov's guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Tarasov pulls Cruz in close to prevent any damage.
Tarasov on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Tarasov tries to get out of the position.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Tarasov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Iosef Tarasov dominated that round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!#R2#
Cruz connects with a body shot that sends Tarasov's belly button to the back.
A big right from Cruz misses.
Tarasov tries to counter with a takedown but Cruz is quick to defend against it.
Cruz is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Tarasov takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Cruz misses with a body shot.
Tarasov changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Tarasov drops down looking for a counter takedown but Cruz sprawls and moves away.
Tarasov has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Tarasov there as he acknowledges the shot.
Cruz swings and misses with a hook to the body. #T1#
Cruz jabs Tarasov to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Cruz lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Tarasov at a distance.
Tarasov on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.#TD2#
Cruz scores with a takedown into Tarasov's guard.
Tarasov has his hands on Cruz's head, controlling the position.
Cruz working some strikes from top position.
Tarasov seems keen to control Cruz's posture.
Tarasov wants to sweep but no luck.
Tarasov can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cruz controls the pace.
Tarasov looking for a sweep. Not yet Tarasov, not yet. #T2#
Tarasov is working hard here to advance position.
Tarasov pulls Cruz in close to prevent any damage.
Tarasov manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Cruz manages to get himself to full guard. #REVR#
Cruz trying to keep a closed guard but Tarasov is proving a slippery customer. #SUB2#
Cruz is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Tarasov seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up. #T3#
Cruz pulls Tarasov in close to prevent any damage.
Cruz trying to keep a closed guard but Tarasov is proving a slippery customer.
Cruz wants to sweep here but Tarasov controlling him for the moment.
Tarasov is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.#T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Cruz throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Cruz digs a good body shot into Tarasov's ribs.
Cruz tries for a takedown but Tarasov circles away easily#TD#
and Tarasov counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Cruz not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Tarasov stays in close to Cruz's body and controls the position.
Cruz working a defensive guard here.
Tarasov's corner is telling him to maintain position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Ricardo Cruz showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!#R3##CL2#
Cruz clinches up with Tarasov and pushes him back against the cage.
A short body shot lands from Cruz as the two fighters clinch. #TD#
Tarasov works for the underhooks and manages to get a trip takedown into guard.
Tarasov looking to pass the guard.
Cruz tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Tarasov pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Cruz is keeping the position for now.
Tarasov is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Tarasov looking to pass the guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tarasov is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.#SUB2#
Cruz looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar. #T1#
Cruz 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.
Tarasov has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.#SUB2#
Cruz throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Tarasov controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Tarasov trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Cruz wants to sweep but no luck.
Tarasov controlling from the top position.
Cruz is trying to keep Tarasov in close.
Tarasov looking to control the position here, rather than advance. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.#T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Cruz throws a right hand that misses #TD#
and Tarasov counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Cruz!
Tarasov moving around in side mount but really he's just happy to control for now.
Tarasov seems to have a rather negative gameplan on the ground. He seems keen to just score the takedown and hold down Cruz for as long as he can get away with.
Cruz tries to bench press Tarasov off him but Tarasov keeps the position.
Tarasov content to control the pace. The referee will try and keep them active though.
Tarasov continues to stall.
Cruz 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.#T3#
Cruz is looking for a sweep.
Tarasov working away.
Cruz being controlled for a moment.
Cruz tries to buck Tarasov off but Tarasov is having none of it.
Cruz seems a little lost for a moment, as Tarasov dominates the positioning.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
You can see the frustration on Cruz's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Cruz tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Tarasov wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Cruz seems a little lost for a moment, as Tarasov dominates the positioning.#REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Cruz scores with a body shot.
Decent striking displayed by Cruz there.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Cruz connects with a crisp jab.
Cruz will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Tarasov changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Cruz connects with a good right hand that stumbles Tarasov. Tarasov circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Cruz is throwing a lot of body shots here, looking to wear down Tarasov rather than just go for the knockout.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Tarasov slips under a jab from Cruz.
Tarasov appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Cruz scores with a jab to the body.
Cruz throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Ricardo Cruz.
I think Cruz 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 Jack Bonds scores the fight 28:29
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight 29:28
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by split decision... Ricardo Cruz!

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Oct 12, 2023

#R1#
Cruz scores with a shot to the body.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
Shart takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.#TD#
Cruz drives through with a takedown into Shart's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Shart wants to sweep but no luck.
Shart is still trying to improve position.
Shart keeping moving, preventing Cruz from controlling successfully.
Shart utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SU#
Cruz stands up from Shart's guard - Cruz perhaps looking for a knockout. #TD#
Cruz shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Shart napping and manages to drive through into side control!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Shart is trying to control Cruz's posture but Cruz avoids it. #T1#
Cruz looking to control but instead Shart has slipped a leg in, to regain half guard.
Still in half guard, Cruz seems content to control.
Shart regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Cruz.
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Shart is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Cruz is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Cruz being controlled here momentarily.
Cruz is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Shart bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Cruz's guard. #REVB##T2#
Cruz is trying to control the position but Shart postures up.
Shart sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Cruz's guard.
Shart working the head and body with strikes. #SUB2#
Shart is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
Cruz manages to get to full guard.
Cruz is trying to control the position from the bottom. #T3#
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Shart trying to control but Cruz is working from the bottom.
Shart is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Cruz has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Cruz is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Cruz keeping full guard, as Shart tries to pass.
Shart keeps trying to improve his position.#T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Cruz utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Shart trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Cruz is looking to stand back up but Shart counters by passing into half guard. Oops... bit sloppy there by Cruz.
Neither fighter is being very active at the moment, with Shart in particular looking to stall.
Shart not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Shart misses with a head shot. Cruz uses the momentum to regain guard.
Cruz looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz looking to control but Shart passes into half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Rumsfeld Shart will probably get the nod.
That's time! Cruz's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Cruz fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Shart takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Nice uppercut there from Cruz.
Cruz fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
A jab from Cruz finds it's way through Shart's defenses. #TD2#
Shart shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Shart was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
Cruz wants to control but Shart postures up.
A lull in the action here as Shart stalls from top position.
Cruz sneaks back into half guard.#T1#
Cruz wants to get back to full guard.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz wants to control but Shart is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Shart has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Shart punching from mount but Cruz doing a good job of avoiding damage.
Cruz tries to reverse the position but Shart maintains control.
Shart trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Cruz keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard. #T2#
Cruz tries to lock up and control but Shart gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Cruz tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Shart trying to control but Cruz is having none of it.
Shart throws an elbow from mount that misses. Lucky escape for Cruz because Shart loaded up on that one.
Cruz tries to reverse the position but Shart maintains control.
Cruz wants to control but Shart is having none of it.
Cruz really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Shart avoids the attempt from Cruz to control.#T3#
Cruz manages to regain half guard. Good work.
Shart is figuring out what he wants to do next.
Cruz trying to control here but he's found himself mounted! Oh no! #SUB2#
Shart has hold of Cruz's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and Cruz manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger.
Cruz is looking to improve his position but Shart isn't that keen on the idea.
Cruz is just holding on here. Shart manages to take his back. #T4##SUB2#
Shart working for the choke.
Cruz breaks Shart's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
Cruz trying to control but Shart is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Shart throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Cruz loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Shart is working the butterfly guard. He manages to land a nice scissor sweep and is now in half guard on the top. Nice move. #REVB#
Shart wants to lay and pray for a moment but Cruz keeps working.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Rumsfeld Shart showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Cruz's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3#
Cruz throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Shart stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Nice body punch from Cruz.
Ricardo Cruz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Cruz throws a good cross that connects.
Shart tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Cruz paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Shart wants to clinch.
Cruz seemed to be looking to counter by closing the distance.#TD2#
Shart shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Cruz manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Shart from controlling successfully.
Cruz working a defensive guard here. #T1#
Cruz looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Shart in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Cruz is trying to keep Shart in close.
Cruz keeping moving, preventing Shart from controlling successfully.
Shart scoring with some ground and pound.
Cruz 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.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Shart's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Shart loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry. #T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Shart working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Cruz seems to have improved his submission grappling technique since last time we saw him. Let's see if he can pull off a submission.
Shart pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Cruz is keeping the position for now.
Cruz wants to stand but Shart is controlling the position. #REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Cruz connects with a jab.
Rumsfeld Shart is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.#TD#
Cruz shoots in and bounces Shart off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
Shart trying to strike from the bottom but really, it's not the best position to be doing that from!
Shart looking to hit a scissor sweep but Cruz is one step ahead there.
Shart is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage. #T3#
Shart manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Cruz manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB#
Shart has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Shart advances position into side control!
Shart laying and praying for a moment but Cruz takes advantage and regains half guard.
Shart missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Rumsfeld Shart has got the better of the ground game so far.
Shart slows the pace down in half guard. #T4#
Cruz trying to control from the bottom.
Cruz is pressing down on Shart's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Shart wants to control from the top but Cruz keeps moving.
Shart preventing the sweep.
Shart passes into half guard under a barage of strikes.
Cruz blocking the ground and pound attempt from Shart.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz is looking for a sweep. Shart is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Ricardo Cruz has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Rumsfeld Shart is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Shart moves into side control, avoiding the strikes from Cruz.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Rumsfeld Shart.
I've got Shart 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 Sam Margolis scores the fight 27:30
Judge Paul Tew scores the fight 27:30
Judge James Glass scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Rumsfeld Shart!
Rumsfeld Shart gave a mention to The Huntington New Age Wellness Community in his post fight interview. That will please them (and hopefully generate some sales).

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Apr 20, 2023

#R1#
Cruz throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Veainu sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Sonatane Veainu seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Cruz throws a body shot but no joy.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Veainu.
Veainu tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Cruz misses the shot to the body.
Cruz just misses with a punch to the body.
Veainu tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Cruz fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Veainu is out of range.
Veainu checks a leg kick.
Cruz misses with a low kick as Veainu jumps back.
Veainu looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Veainu checks a low kick. Bone on bone - not my idea of a good time.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz fakes with the hands and throws a leg kick but Veainu is out of range.
Cruz shoots for a takedown but Veainu saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Cruz avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
A left and a right from Veainu both land. Nice combination.
Cruz throws a low kick but it's checked well by Veainu.
Cruz looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.#T1#
Veainu throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
Cruz tries to counter with a takedown but Veainu is quick to defend against it.
Cruz shoots for a double leg takedown but Veainu sprawls well. He's pushed Cruz's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Veainu misses with a double jab.
Cruz throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Ricardo Cruz. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Cruz throws out a leg kick but Veainu moves out of range and Cruz only half commits.
A head kick misses from Veainu.
Veainu throws a head kick that misses.
Cruz half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Cruz misses with a leg kick
and Veainu counters with a series of strikes. Cruz will be more careful next time no doubt.
Cruz takes a swing at Veainu's ribcage but misses.
Veainu is looking to clinch.
Cruz throws out a leg kick but Veainu moves out of range and Cruz only half commits.
Veainu throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped #TD#
and Cruz counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Veainu!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!#SUB#
Cruz tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Cruz has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #T2#
Cruz laying and praying for a moment but Veainu takes advantage and regains half guard.
Cruz is trying to control the action in half guard but Veainu is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #SUB#
Veainu is defending against the submission attempts here by Cruz.
Cruz sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Veainu defending well though. #T3#
Cruz passes to full mount!
Veainu avoids a series of strikes thrown by Cruz.
Cruz trying to control but Veainu is having none of it.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Veainu tries to hold on but Cruz pushes him away.
Cruz takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz looking to control but Veainu is working nicely, looking to advance position himself. #T4#
Cruz unloads with some shots from mount but Veainu bucks and avoids them well.
Veainu is squirming around, avoiding Cruz's attempts to control the action.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Cruz sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.
Cruz working the ground and pound effectively.
Cruz looking to control but Veainu is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
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 Ricardo Cruz 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#
Veainu misses with a low kick as Cruz jumps back.
Veainu fails to land with a series of punches.
Cruz misses with a low kick.
Veainu tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Veainu checks a leg kick.
Veainu lands three nice shots there - that looked like it hurt!
Cruz tries a low kick but Veainu avoids it.
Cruz waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Veainu.
Veainu throws a leg kick but Cruz sees it coming and checks it nicely.
Cruz misses the jab.
Cruz fails with a takedown attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz throws a jab when Veainu was well out of range.
Veainu displaying good standup as he scores with a three punch combination.
Cruz fails miserably with a takedown attempt.#T1#
Cruz throws out a loose jab but Veainu uses good head movement to avoid it.
Cruz throws a low kick but Veainu avoids it.
Cruz throws the left hand but Veainu avoids the punch easily.
Veainu fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Cruz tries to counter with a takedown but Veainu is quick to defend against it.
Sonatane Veainu is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Cruz avoids a kick to the body. #TD#
Cruz throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Veainu was covering up waiting for the punch and Cruz finishes the takedown easily into guard.
Cruz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Veainu is keeping the position for now.
Cruz is looking to pass into half guard but Veainu pushes him away with his feet and jumps on top - now Veainu is in guard.#REVB#
Ricardo Cruz overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#SUB#
Veainu avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #T2#
Cruz trying to keep a closed guard but Veainu is proving a slippery customer.
Veainu controlling from the top position. #SUB#
Cruz has his foot on Veainu's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Veainu works his way back into a safe position though.#T3##SUB#
Cruz working for submissions but it's allowed Veainu to get to half guard.
Cruz tries to get to full guard but Veainu has control of the leg.
Still in half guard, Veainu seems content to control.#T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Cruz is trying to control but can't.
Cruz is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Veainu's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Veainu's back!#SUB#
Veainu fending off the submission attempt from Cruz. #SUB#
Cruz working for a RNC but it's not happening just yet.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB#
Cruz patiently working for the choke. Which fighter will keep their nerve here?
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Sonatane Veainu will probably get the nod - 10:9.
That's time! Cruz's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!#R3##TD2#
Veainu feints and as Cruz raises his hands in defense, Veainu changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Veainu postures up. #SUB#
Cruz working for a triangle but Veainu defends it easily.
Cruz is trying to control the position but Veainu postures up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#T1#
Veainu stopping the sweep attempt from Cruz.
Cruz trying to control the position. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Cruz throws a low kick, looking for Veainu's leg but Veainu calmly moves out of range.
Veainu displaying good standup as he scores with a three punch combination. #CL2#
Veainu rushes Cruz and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.#TD2#
Veainu decides to pull guard. #T2#
Cruz trying to control the position from guard on top but Veainu is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Veainu can't keep his opponent in guard - Cruz advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Cruz is trying to control. Veainu wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Cruz throwing shots but Veainu is blocking nicely.
Cruz sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Veainu defending well though.
Cruz wants to control but Veainu is keeping him busy. #T3#
Cruz is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Veainu is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.
Veainu looks like he's trying to stand up.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Veainu is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Nice defenses there by Veainu.
Cruz tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Veainu tries to close the distance and clinch but Cruz swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Cruz shoots in looking for a takedown. Veainu tries to sprawl out of it but Cruz keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Veainu manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Veainu tries to clinch there but Cruz circles away. #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.
Cruz avoids the head kick by Veainu.
Cruz shoots in for a takedown but Veainu shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Veainu throws a head kick but Cruz moves out of range.
Veainu throws a right and a left that both miss.
Veainu takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Veainu falls off balance throwing a combination #TD#
and Cruz counters with a shoot takedown. Veainu fights it but they end up in guard.
Veainu avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Cruz trying to control but Veainu is working from the bottom.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Veainu striking off his back but it's not causing Cruz any problems.

And that's the end of the fight!
Sonatane Veainu comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Veainu 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 Donald Grub scores the fight 28:29
Judge Sam Margolis scores the fight 28:29
Judge Daniel Bishop scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Sonatane Veainu!

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Mar 24, 2023

#R1#
We've got one fighter who appears to only be looking to counter and the other not looking particularly aggressive either, so we could be in for a dull fight.
Barber is looking to clinch.
Barber lands a nice looking body shot.
Barber will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Cruz with the counter takedown but Barber avoids it easily.
Barber swings for the body but Cruz moves out of range.
And Cruz tries to counter it with a takedown but Barber pushes his down on his head and steps out.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Barber misses with a jab, cross combination.
Cruz keeps the fight on the outside.#T1#
Cruz slips a jab and a cross from Barber.
Barber lands three nice shots there - that looked like it hurt!
Barber throws a big shot that misses.
Cruz showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Barber.
Barber misses with a looping left.#T2#
Barber lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Andrew Barber seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A combination from Barber does no damage.
A punch combination from Barber misses.
And Cruz tries to counter it with a takedown but Barber pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Barber tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Cruz was well out of range. Poor timing from Barber.
Cruz avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Cruz swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Barber throws a series of punches but Cruz moves out of range. #T3#
Barber closes the distance and lands a one-two.
Barber misses with the combination.
Barber tries to close the distance and clinch but Cruz swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Cruz changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Barber throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Cruz.
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Barber! #T4#
A big left from Barber misses.
And Cruz tries to counter it with a takedown but Barber pushes his down on his head and steps out.#CL#
Barber has taken the fight to the clinch. #BC#
Barber breaks from the clinch.
Barber will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Cruz changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Cruz takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Andrew Barber dominated that round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R2#
Barber misses with a double jab #TD2#
and Cruz counters with a takedown into side control.
Barber is pushing Cruz's head away, looking to escape. Cruz manages to hold on to the position though.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cruz is looking to take a break and control but Barber is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Cruz might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Barber haven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cruz in side control, just content to control the action for now.
Barber is not content to let Cruz control the position. #T1#
Cruz advances to mount.
Cruz unloading with bombs!#SUB2#
Barber has left one of his arms exposed and Cruz doesn't need a second invitation. He's isolated it and locked on a tight armbar. Barber screams and taps out, obviously in a lot of pain. Hopefully there isn't permanent damage to that arm.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:58 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ricardo Cruz!

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