Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: UCF 80: Adunga Jr v Wilder
Date: Nov 02, 2024

#R1#
Madden throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Madden shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Tavares but Tavares pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Madden fails with a takedown attempt.
Tavares connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Madden shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Tavares as he avoids it easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Reese Madden. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Tavares works the jab nicely.#TD#
Madden feints and then dives in with a takedown. That was a long way out but the feint bought him enough time to close the distance and complete the takedown. Now we'll play guard for a bit and see who can get the better of that position.
Madden looking to pass the guard.
Tavares being controlled here, momentarily.
Madden trying to control but Tavares is working from the bottom.
Tavares trying to control the position. #T1#
Madden has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Madden trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Madden trying to control the position from guard on top but Tavares is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Madden tries for a takedown but Tavares sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Madden shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Tavares pinned against the cage. Tavares gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Madden dives in and grabs Tavares's left leg, looking for a takedown. Tavares pushes down on Madden's head and hops out.
A slow jab from Tavares misses its intended target.
Tavares swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Madden attempts a counter takedown but Tavares avoids it well and moves away.#T2#
Madden throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Tavares throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Tavares swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Madden fails with the takedown
and Tavares counters with a nice body shot.
Madden is trying hard to land a takedown here. Tavares sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Madden.
Madden closes this distance looking for a takedown but Tavares circles away.
Madden will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Michael Tavares is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Tavares misses the jab.
Madden shoots in and drives through. Tavares sprawls well.
Madden is trying hard to land a takedown here. Tavares sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Madden takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Tavares scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Madden has a takedown stuffed.#T3#
Tavares misses the jab.
Tavares jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Madden digs a good body shot into Tavares's ribs.
Madden misses with a body shot.
Madden fails with the takedown.
Tavares throws a combination. Madden tries to block but a couple of punches get through.
Reese Madden seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Madden smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Tavares throws a series of punches but Madden moves out of range.
Madden closes the distance and clinches up with Tavares, looking for a takedown. Madden pushes Tavares against the cage but Tavares circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Madden misses with a takedown attempt - Tavares sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Tavares bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Madden's head.
Tavares misses with a body shot.
Madden fails with a takedown attempt from distance.#T4#
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
A jab lands there for Tavares.
A punch lands to the side of Madden 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Tavares swinging wildly here.
Tavares walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Tavares takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Tavares misses with a wild body shot.
Tavares misses with a looping right.
Madden is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Madden throws a body shot but no joy.
Madden fails with a takedown attempt.
Tavares will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Madden scores with a sloppy right hand. Tavares should have avoided that one.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares dominated that round.
That's time! Madden's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
A jab from Madden misses.
Madden tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Tavares swivels and escapes.
Madden rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Tavares moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Michael Tavares seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Madden uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Tavares.
Tavares swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Madden appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Madden on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Tavares stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Tavares wants it to stay on the feet.
Tavares avoids the body shot from Madden.
Tavares misses with a two punch combination.
Madden fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Horrible takedown attempt by Madden or perhaps it was just good defense by Tavares, which made it look bad.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Reese Madden. That's going to take a lot out of him.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A bone on bone clash there as Madden blocks the leg kick.
Madden dives in and grabs Tavares's left leg, looking for a takedown. Tavares pushes down on Madden's head and hops out.
Madden fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Tavares has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Madden doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Tavares counters with a left and a right that stings Madden. #T1#
Tavares throws a body punch but Madden moves out of range.
Madden gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Tavares cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
A looping hook to the body misses from Madden. Tavares does a little dance to reset his feet.
Tavares misses with the combination.
Tavares connects with a good right hand that stumbles Madden. Madden circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Madden fails to land the takedown.
Tavares bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Madden's head.
Madden slips under a jab.
Madden looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
It seemed like Tavares was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Tavares throws a half hearted mid kick.
Tavares has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.#T2##TD#
Madden closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Madden is trying to control the action in half guard but Tavares is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Tavares is looking to improve his position.
Madden wants to free his trapped foot but Tavares is holding on for dear life with his legs.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
The fighters are battling for position here. Tavares manages to regain full guard. Nice work. #SUB#
Madden has gone for a leg lock! Tavares slips out almost immediately though and dives into Madden's guard.#REVB#
Tavares stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Madden swivels though and keeps the full guard. #T3#
Tavares controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Madden looking to control.
Tavares stays in close to Madden's body and controls the position.
Tavares is continuing to stall.
Madden is trying to control the position from the bottom. #T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Tavares is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Tavares leaves Madden with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Madden tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Tavares swivels and escapes.
Madden closes the distance and clinches up with Tavares, looking for a takedown. Madden pushes Tavares against the cage but Tavares circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Tavares looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Tavares swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Tavares slips a jab from Madden.
Nice body punch from Tavares.
Tavares uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Madden.
Madden takes one to the side of the head.
Madden lands a nice shot to the body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!#R3#
Tavares takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.#TD#
Madden scores with a takedown into Tavares's guard.
Madden tries to free his leg and advance position but Tavares is retaining full guard.
Madden stays in close to Tavares's body and controls the position.
Madden trying to control but Tavares is working from the bottom.
Madden trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Madden wants to control from the top but Tavares keeps moving.
Tavares wants to stand but Madden is controlling the position.
Tavares is pulling down on Madden's head to control his posture. #T1#
Tavares not looking particularly offensive just at the moment. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Madden.
Tavares throws a shot from downtown. Madden moves away and avoids it.
Tavares scores with a straight right hand, right through his opponent's guard.
Madden shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Tavares as he jumps to the side.
Tavares keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Tavares throws a counter combo.
Tavares throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Madden stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Tavares missing with a left hand there. Madden was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Madden has a takedown stuffed.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Reese Madden. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Madden misses with a body shot. #T2#
Madden shoots in but no luck this time.
Madden goes for a double leg but Tavares avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Tavares continues to drive forward.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.#BC2#
Tavares's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Madden works Tavares's body with a nice hook.
Madden just misses with a punch to the body.
Horrible takedown attempt by Madden or perhaps it was just good defense by Tavares, which made it look bad.
Tavares lands a nice looking body shot.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#TD#
Madden looking for a takedown here - he's got it.

Tavares pushes Madden off and gets back to his feet.
Madden lands a jab.#T3#
Madden misses with a body punch
letting Tavares counter with a right hand.
Madden fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Tavares avoids it really well and circles away.
Madden is looking to wear down Tavares with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Tavares stuns Madden with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
A combination from Tavares does no damage.
Madden throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
A combination from Madden does no damage.
Madden drops his hands momentarily and Tavares takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Madden throws a body shot but no joy.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Madden.
Tavares throws a hard body shot but it just misses. #T4#
Tavares tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Madden was well out of range. Poor timing from Tavares.
Madden throws a body shot but no joy.
Madden fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Madden with a poor takedown
and Tavares counters with a one-two to the body.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Madden fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Tavares manages to avoid it.
Tavares was about to counter that last move with a leg kick but changes his mind.
Tavares getting the better of the striking in that exchange.#TD#
Madden shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Madden was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!#ES2#
Tavares throws Madden to one side and escapes!
Madden fails with a takedown attempt.
Michael Tavares is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Madden throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Tavares swings for the body but Madden moves out of range.
Madden slips under a jab.
Reese Madden has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Tavares lands with an uppercut that bounces Madden off the cage and back into range.

And that's the end of the fight!
Michael Tavares comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Tavares 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 Phil Schofield scores the fight 27:30
Judge James Glass scores the fight 27:30
Judge Sam Margolis scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Michael Tavares!
After the big win, Michael Tavares made sure to do all the important stuff like thanking his sponsors Hype Nutrition and telling the interviewer how much he loves him.

Event: UCF 72: Boytsov v Puro
Date: Oct 05, 2024

#R1#
Jones is looking to land body kicks.
Jones throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Tavares sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Jones tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Tavares defends well and Jones ends up having to push Tavares into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.#BC2#
Tavares manages to break the clinch.
Tavares throws an overhand right that lands on Jones's shoulder, as Jones tries to avoid the shot.
Light Weight Jones seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Tavares throws a big shot that misses.
Jones misses with a looping left.
Tavares cracks a nice hook into Jones's ribs.
A lazy left from Tavares finds it's target.#CL#
Jones instigates a clinch.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Tavares has been working on his takedowns a lot in the buildup to the fight and we can only assume he's going to look to take this to the mat.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jones misses with the head strike.
Jones tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Tavares's elbow.
Tavares working hard to break the clinch.
Tavares is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Tavares swings wildly with an uppercut but Jones uses good head movement to avoid it.
Jones throws an elbow but it's blocked. #T1#
Jones scores with a shot to the side of Tavares's head.
Jones pushes off an throws an elbow but Tavares leans to the side and avoids it. We're back to clinching against the cage.#BC2#
Tavares breaks from the clinch.
Jones doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Tavares counters with a lovely straight right hand!
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Light Weight Jones. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Jones slips under a jab.
A jab from Tavares does it's job there.
Tavares keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Tavares looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Tavares looks to score with a jab to the body but Jones is just out of range.
Tavares throws a lazy right hand but Jones sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Michael Tavares is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Tavares cracks Jones with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
A jab from Tavares misses.
Jones appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
Jones ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Tavares moves away.#CL#
Jones gets a clinch. #T2##BC2#
Tavares manages to break the clinch.
Jones uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Tavares.
Tavares steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Jones.
Tavares appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
A combination from Tavares does no damage.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Tavares misses with a looping left.
Tavares takes a swing at Jones's ribcage but misses.
Jones is looking to clinch but Tavares is avoiding it.
Jones tries to clinch but Tavares is having none of it.
A cross from Jones lands.
Tavares misses with a straight left.
Tavares throws a jab when Jones was well out of range.
Jones tries to counter with a takedown but Tavares is quick to defend against it.
Jones looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Tavares stuffs the takedown attempt from Jones. Jones gets slowly back to his feet.
A little jabbing left from Tavares on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.#T3#
Jones shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Tavares pinned against the cage. Tavares gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Tavares swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Jones throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Tavares looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.#CL#
Jones closes the distance and clinches. #BC2#
Tavares manages to break the clinch.
Tavares misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Jones.
Tavares misses with a straight right.
Jones changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.#CL#
Jones gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Jones pushes off an throws an elbow but Tavares leans to the side and avoids it. We're back to clinching against the cage.
Tavares struggles to land a body shot inside as Jones controls his hands.
Jones tries to pull guard but Tavares holds him up against the cage and eventually Jones drops back down to his feet.
Tavares scores with a shot to the side of Jones's head. #T4#
Tavares is trying to force a seperation but Jones has the dominant position.
Tavares looks like he'd prefer to be striking at range right now.
Jones tries for a takedown. No joy.
Jones has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Tavares is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
Tavares wants to get back to striking at distance but Jones won't allow it.
Tavares wants to push off and get back to the center of the mat but Jones has him pressed against the cage.#BC2#
Tavares escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Tavares avoids the clinch attempt nicely. #CL#
Jones rushes Tavares and presses him up against the cage.
Tavares scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Tavares takes an elbow to the temple. #CUT#It looks like Michael Tavares has been cut.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
A hook to the body from Tavares.
Tavares blocks the elbow strike.
Jones misses with an elbow over the top.
Tavares avoids a wild elbow strike from Jones.
Tavares is trying to break the clinch but Jones is controlling him.
Tavares is trying to force a seperation but Jones has the dominant position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Michael Tavares's cut.
That's time! Jones's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Tavares swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Jones throws a low kick but it's checked well by Tavares.
Jones tries to clinch up but Tavares circles away and keeps his distance.
A countering left hand to the body from Tavares misses.
Jones ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Tavares comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
The fight stays on the outside here - Jones looks like he's thinking about clinching though.#CL#
Jones moves into the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jones wants a takedown but no success here.
Tavares has had enough of the clinch but Jones keeps him there for the moment.
Jones takes a shot to the head. #BC2#
Tavares's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.#CL#
Jones closes the distance and clinches.
Jones creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses. #T1#
Tavares avoids the elbow strike from Jones, against the cage.
Tavares blocks the elbow strike. #BC2#
Tavares breaks from the clinch.
Jones tries to close the distance and clinch up but Tavares swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Tavares just misses with a punch to the body.
Jones blocks a jab.
Jones takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Tavares has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Jones tries to clinch but Tavares moves away
and Tavares counters with a nice uppercut.
Tavares throws out a loose jab but Jones uses good head movement to avoid it.
Jones attempts a counter takedown but Tavares avoids it well and moves away.
Tavares throws a nice looking combination but Jones bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Jones is looking to clinch.
Jones darts in trying to clinch
letting Tavares counter with a right hand. #T2#
Jones fails with the takedown
and Tavares counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Jones looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Jones looks to land a body kick but Tavares moved away.
Jones uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Tavares.
Tavares scores with a sloppy right hand. Jones should have avoided that one.
Jones misses with a low kick.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Jones closes the distance and clinches up with Tavares, looking for a takedown. Jones pushes Tavares against the cage but Tavares circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Light Weight Jones. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Tavares swings for the body but Jones moves out of range.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Jones is defended easily by Tavares.#T3#
Tavares scores with a hook to the body. Jones takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Tavares misses with an uppercut. Jones saw that one coming.
Jones throws a body kick, spinning off balance
and Jones takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Jones swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Jones throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Tavares let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
Jones dives in and grabs Tavares's left leg, looking for a takedown. Tavares pushes down on Jones's head and hops out.
Jones tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Tavares manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Jones tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Tavares was well out of range. Poor timing from Jones.
Tavares throws out a counter right but Jones avoids it with no problem.
Jones closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Tavares waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Jones.
Jones avoids the body shot from Tavares. #T4#
Jones is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Jones moves out of range of the strikes.
Tavares tries to land a leg kick but Jones saw it coming and moves away.
Tavares throws a hook but Jones avoids it easily.
Jones throws a body kick despite being completely out of range
and Tavares counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Jones tries to close the distance and clinch but Tavares swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Jones uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Tavares.
Jones is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Tavares throws a body punch but Jones moves out of range.
Jones takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Jones misses with a body shot.
Jones tries to clinch there but Tavares circles away.
Jones tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Michael Tavares's cut.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action. And we move into the final round!#R3#
Jones attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
Tavares doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Tavares defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Jones.
Jones is looking to wear down Tavares with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Tavares scores with a jab. Jones acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Tavares fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Jones rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Tavares counters with a nice uppercut.
Tavares dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Jones lands a nice hook to Tavares's body. Tavares takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Jones shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Tavares but Tavares pushes him off and we're back to square one.
A little jabbing left from Tavares on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Jones looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Michael Tavares seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Jones tries to score with an inside leg kick but telegraphs it and Tavares is able to avoid easily.
Jones misses with the body kick
letting Tavares counter with a right hand.
Jones gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Tavares.#T1#
Jones is on the wrong end of a nice combination from Tavares.
Jones is looking to clinch but Tavares is avoiding it.
Tavares fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Jones manages to avoid it.
Tavares tries to land a front kick but Jones steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Tavares scores with a hook to the body. Jones takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Tavares swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
It looked like Jones wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
A low kick from Jones is predictable there
and Tavares counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Jones throws a leg kick
and Tavares counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Tavares looks to score with a jab to the body but Jones is just out of range.
Jones half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.#CL#
Jones closes the distance and pushes Tavares back into the cage.
Tavares blocks an elbow strike from Jones.
Tavares blocks an elbow strike from Jones.
Tavares blocks an elbow strike.#T2#
Tavares is trying to break the clinch but Jones is controlling him.
Light Weight Jones has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
We are yet to see a takedown attempt from Tavares in the fight. On paper you would think he is the more dominant ground fighter so let's see if these unusual tactics pay off.
Jones wants to take the fight to the mat but Tavares manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Light Weight Jones. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Jones creates a bit of distance and throws an elbow that only just misses.
Jones lands an elbow inside.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Jones can't find room to land a body shot as Tavares controls the action.
Jones is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Tavares pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Tavares can't break the clinch.
Tavares lands a hook to the side of the head.
Jones throws an elbow but it misses.
Jones misses with an elbow over the top.
Tavares can't break the clinch.
Jones misses with a punch to the body.
Jones tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Tavares just stands there and leans against the cage.
Jones has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Tavares after a bit of a struggle.
Tavares dodges an elbow strike from Jones.
Tavares wants to push off and get back to the center of the mat but Jones has him pressed against the cage.
Tavares blocks an elbow strike from Jones. #T3#
Jones comes over the top with an elbow. That landed flush.
Jones keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Tavares's efforts to push away.
Light Weight Jones has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Jones tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Tavares's elbow. #BC2#
Tavares breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Jones tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Tavares manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
A nice side step and Tavares releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Jones is looking to clinch but Tavares is avoiding it.
Tavares tries to work over Jones's front leg with a kick but Jones checks it.
Tavares blocks a low kick nicely.
Despite the aggression on Tavares's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Tavares stuffs the takedown.
Tavares avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Jones fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Tavares avoids it really well and circles away.#T4#
Tavares ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Jones tries to clinch but Tavares is having none of it.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Tavares! But no joy.
A telegraphed right hand from Jones misses the target.
Tavares lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.
A lazy left from Tavares finds it's target.#CL#
Jones clinches up against the cage.
Jones blocks a knee to the body. He'll have a nicely bruised forearm in the morning.
Michael Tavares is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Jones lands an elbow that stopped Tavares in his tracks for a moment.
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!
With the two fighters working up against the cage, Jones just misses with a elbow thrown towards Tavares's brow.
Jones misses with the head strike.
Tavares is looking to break free of the clinch but Jones has double underhooks.

And that's the end of the fight!
Michael Tavares comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Tavares 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 James Glass scores the fight 27:30
Judge Daniel Bishop scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Michael Tavares!
An out of breath and clearly excited Michael Tavares thanked Hype Nutrition for their help and support (and free stuff they sent him).

Event: UCF 61: Chuck v Dick Twist
Date: Aug 24, 2024

#R1#
Tavares throws out a loose jab but Bond uses good head movement to avoid it.
Bond misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
As Bond looks to move away, Tavares throws a big counter combo but Bond just gets out of the way.
Bond scoring well with a low kick there.
Bond misses with a low kick.
Tavares appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
We've been hearing reports that Tavares has been drilling takedowns in recent sessions so let's see if that has an impact on the result of this fight.
Tavares avoids a kick to the body.
Tavares throwing a counter right hand but Bond manages to avoid it.
Bond pivots, looking for a leg kick but Tavares is out of range and Bond settles back down.
It looked like Tavares was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Bond.
Bond misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Good standup being displayed there by Tavares as he connects with a hook.
Tavares connects with a nice looking jab.
A swing and a miss from Tavares.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tavares moves out of range as Bond throws a body kick.
Nice body punch from Tavares.
Bond motions for Tavares to come forward. Bond throws a leg kick but it misses it's target.
It looked like Tavares was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Bond.
The fighters circling - Tavares throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Bond feints a counter leg kick.#T1#
Bond lands a head kick. Tavares smiles back at him and beckons him forward. #CUT2#It looks like Michael Tavares has been cut.
Tavares scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Tavares lands a jab to Bond's midsection.
A solid body kick from Bond.
A head kick misses from Bond.
Bond tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Tavares was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Tavares misses with a few strikes there.
Matt Bond seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Bond throws a body kick that misses
enabling Tavares to counter with a crisp jab.
Bond connects with a leg kick.
Tavares digs a good body shot into Bond's ribs.
Bond misses with a low kick.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Tavares throws an off balance right hand
and he gets countered with a snapping leg kick.
Tavares fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Bond tries a head kick but it misses. #T2#
Bond misses with a low kick.
Tavares bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Bond throws a head kick but Tavares moves out of range.
No joy there for Tavares, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Tavares backing away here, and Bond unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Tavares misses with an uppercut. Bond saw that one coming.
Bond throws a mid kick that lands with a slap.
Tavares avoids a kick to the body.
Tavares lands a jab to Bond's midsection.
Bond looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Tavares works Bond's body with a nice hook.
Tavares takes a swing at Bond's ribcage but misses.
Bond slips a straight right by Tavares.#T3#
Tavares throws a body shot but no joy.
Tavares fails to land with a series of punches.
Bond misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Tavares is looking to counter punch.
Bond explodes with a nice body kick and back out of range. Nice work.
Good leg kick by Bond.
Bond ducks under a wild hook from Tavares.
Tavares ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Bond moves away.
Tavares throws a body shot but no joy.
Tavares on the wrong end of a nice low kick. He's acting like it's no big deal but he doesn't want to take many more of those.
Bond tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Tavares getting the better of the striking in that exchange.
Tavares misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Bond.
Tavares loads up on a big right hand but Bond slips the punch.#T4#
Tavares throws a right and a left that Bond avoids nicely.
A nice inside leg kick there by Bond. That's going to slow Tavares down.
Tavares takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Bond throws a low kick but Tavares moves out of range easily.
Tavares throws a right and a left that Bond avoids nicely.
Tavares avoids the head kick by Bond.
Bond goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Tavares swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Bond looks to throw a body kick
enabling Tavares to counter with a crisp jab.
Tavares's corner calls for a 1-2. Tavares obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Bond throws a push kick but Tavares slaps the foot to one side.
Bond throws a head kick that misses
and Tavares counters with a nice uppercut.
Tavares connects with a jab.
Bond keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Tavares.
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 Michael Tavares will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Michael Tavares's cut.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare each other down, ready to get back to the action.#R2#
Bond moves out of range of the strikes.
Tavares avoids the body shot from Bond.
We've been informed that Bond has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.
Tavares jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Bond throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
Bond uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Tavares.
Tavares misses the jab.
Bond throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
A looping hook to the body misses from Tavares. Bond does a little dance to reset his feet.
Bond shapes to counter with a head kick.
Tavares moves out of range of the body kick from Bond.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
The fighters circling - Tavares throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Bond has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Bond there as he acknowledges the shot.
Tavares thows a left - swing and a miss!
Bond swings and misses with a hook to the body. #T1#
Bond throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Bond dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Tavares. That did some damage!
Bond misses with a leg kick
and Tavares counters with a straight right hand.
Tavares rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Bond moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Bond slips under a jab from Tavares.
Good exchange - Tavares coming out on top.
A nice leg kick lands there from Bond.
Tavares looks to score with a jab to the body but Bond is just out of range.
Tavares lands with an uppercut that bounces Bond off the cage and back into range.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Bond.
Bond takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Tavares is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Bond throws a low kick but it's checked well by Tavares.
Bond has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Bond there as he acknowledges the shot.#T2#
Tavares misses with a wild body shot.
Bond looking to land some kicks to the body here.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Tavares wants to slow Bond down by chopping away at his legs.
Tavares takes a step back and watches a body kick go sailing past his mid section.
Michael Tavares is winning the standup battle so far.
The fighters circling - Tavares throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Bond feints a counter leg kick.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Tavares.
Tavares lands a jab to Bond's midsection.
Tavares is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Bond can do to turn this around?
Bond throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Bond throws a head kick that misses
and Tavares counters with a three punch combo that has Bond backing up. Bond nods at Tavares to acknowledge the strikes.
Bond with the inside leg kick.
Bond throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Tavares.
Tavares takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Tavares scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Bond doesn't seem bothered though. #T3#
Tavares scores with the left hand. Bond knows he should have avoided that one.
Tavares throws a jab when Bond was well out of range.
Bond tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Bond throws a front kick that sends Tavares stumbling back into the cage.
Bond lands with a kick to the temple. Tavares shrugs as if to say "is that all you've got?"
Bond lands with a slapping head kick.
Bond throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
Bond lands a nice leg kick that just misses Tavares's sensitive parts.
Bond slips a jab from Tavares.
Tavares takes a nice looking leg kick right on the meat of his thigh there.
Bond tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Tavares throws a jab but it's blocked by Bond. #T4#
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!
Tavares misses with a body shot.
Bond thinks about the counter body kick.
Tavares missing with a left hand there. Bond was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Bond keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Bond scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Tavares avoids a kick to the body.
Bond throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
Tavares throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
A low kick lands for Tavares.
Bond misses with an attempted mid kick.
Tavares misses with a straight right.
A low kick from Bond misses
and Tavares counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Bond attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
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 Michael Tavares will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Michael Tavares's cut.
That's time! Tavares's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!#R3#
Bond throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Tavares throws a hook but Bond avoids it easily.
Bond avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
A solid leg kick lands there for Bond.
Tavares lands a slapping body shot.
Tavares throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Bond makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.
Bond throws a mid kick that lands with a slap.
Bond slips under a jab from Tavares.
Tavares backing away here, and Bond unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Bond connects with an inside leg kick.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bond lands a leg kick that knocks Tavares off balance momentarily.
Tavares fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Bond manages to avoid it.
Tavares throws a right hand that Bond ducks under and follows up with a left that Bond also avoids with ease.
Tavares misses with a wild body shot. #T1#
Bond misses with a hook
and Tavares counters with a left to the body.
Tavares throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Tavares fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Bond shapes to counter with a head kick.
Tavares misses with the combination.
Tavares clobbers Bond with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Tavares connects with a nice looking jab.
Bond misses with a head kick.
Tavares misses with a lunging right hand
and Bond counters with an inside leg kick.
Bond pulls out of a head kick attempt.
Bond connects with a high kick. #T2#
Bond feints and then cracks Tavares's leading leg with a nice low kick. He's obviously looking to slow Tavares down.
Bond has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Tavares misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Bond.
Tavares lands a nice shot to the body.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Tavares jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Bond connects with a solid leg kick.
Tavares looks to throw the jab but Bond is out of range.
Tavares connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Bond scores with a spinning back kick!
Bond slips under a jab.
Tavares uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
A head kick by Bond misses
and Tavares counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Bond lands a leg kick. The shin dug right into the meat of the thigh.#T3#
A solid leg kick lands there for Bond.
Bond throws a nice outside leg kick.
Tavares moves out of range of the body kick.
Bond avoids the body shot from Tavares.
A slapping body kick lands there for Bond.
Bond lands with a thumping leg kick.
Bond throws a low kick, looking for Tavares's leg but Tavares calmly moves out of range.
Bond misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Bond is looking to chop away at Tavares's legs.
Bond throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
Bond steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Tavares.
Bond bobs and weaves and then throws a good body kick.#T4#
Bond lands a leg kick and bounces back out of range.
Bond blocks a jab.
Bond misses with a head kick.
Tavares swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Bond delivers a nice body kick.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Bond is looking to land body kicks.
Bond attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
Tavares misses with a body shot
and Bond counters with a solid body kick.
Bond throws a half hearted mid kick.
Bond misses with a head kick.
It looked like Tavares was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
Michael Tavares is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Bond tries to score with a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Bond moves out of range of the strikes.
Matt Bond has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Tavares throws a good cross that connects.

And that's the end of the fight!
Matt Bond comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Tavares has outscored his opponent in every aspect of the fight today. Only a scarily incompetent judge or two will keep him from a well deserved win... Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Eddie Farnsworth scores the fight 29:28
Judge Chad Campbell scores the fight 29:28
Judge Franklyn Lucas scores the fight 29:28

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

Event: UCF 52: Puro v Greene
Date: Jul 27, 2024

#R1#
Graves misses with a straight left.
Graves lands with a cross. #CUT#It looks like Michael Tavares has been cut.
Graves misses with a hook.
Graves throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Tavares throws out a counter right but Graves avoids it with no problem.
Graves misses with an uppercut
and Tavares counters with a three punch combo that has Graves backing up. Graves nods at Tavares to acknowledge the strikes.
Graves scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Graves cracks Tavares with a big right hand that sees him stumbling back against the cage! Tavares falls to his knees and Graves doesn't need a second invitatation - he rushes in and fires off several unanswered shots that force the referee to stop the fight! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:26 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Deon Graves!
After winning the bout, Deon Graves thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.
In defeat, Michael Tavares stepped up to the mic, saying 'Congratulations to my opponent. Thank you to the fans for coming out to support. I'll do better next time.'.

Event: UCF 43: Melps v Tavares
Date: Jun 29, 2024

#R1#
Melps will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Tavares was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Tavares leaves Melps with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Melps fails with a takedown attempt.
Tavares swung with a counter punch to the body but it didn't connect.
Michael Tavares has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Phichael Melps.
Melps shoots in but Tavares avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Tavares is looking for a counter combo.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Melps.
Melps tries to close the distance and clinch up but Tavares swats him away and circles back towards the center.
An attempted straight right counter from Tavares misses the target.
Tavares throws a right and a left that Melps avoids nicely.
Melps shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Tavares sprawls well. Tavares wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Melps gets slowly back to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tavares throws a looping overhand right but Melps ducks down to avoid it.
Tavares ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Melps fails with the takedown
and Tavares counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head. #T1#
Melps is looking to clinch.
Tavares stuffs the takedown attempt from Melps. Melps gets slowly back to his feet.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Melps is defended easily by Tavares.
Tavares feinted there with a counter leg kick.
Melps shoots in looking for a takedown but Tavares manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Melps's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Melps dives in and grabs Tavares's left leg, looking for a takedown. Tavares pushes down on Melps's head and hops out.
Tavares appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
Tavares jabs at Melps's body.
Melps takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Tavares stuffs the takedown.
Melps fails with the takedown.
Melps takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Tavares lands a nice shot to the body.
Melps wants to clinch.
An attempted straight right counter from Tavares misses the target.#T2#
The crowd cheers as Tavares lands an impressive looking overhand right. Melps doesn't seem phased though.#CL2#
The fight moves into the clinch position.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#TD2#
Melps successfully pulls guard. #SUB2#
Tavares avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #SUB2#
Melps looking for a guillotine here but Tavares defends easily.
Melps keeping moving, preventing Tavares from controlling successfully. #T3#
Tavares postures up in Melps's guard and throws a big left but Melps blocks it. #SUB2#
Melps escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Tavares gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Tavares landing with the ground and pound. #SUB2#
Melps is looking for a triangle but Tavares pushes his legs off easily.
Tavares trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Tavares postures up and lands a big shot to Melps's brow.
Tavares scores with a decent looking elbow strike.#T4##SUB2#
Melps escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Tavares gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Tavares stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Melps swivels though and keeps the full guard. #SUB2#
Melps looking for a guillotine here but Tavares defends easily.
Tavares looking to pass the guard.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Tavares trying to control but Melps is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Melps has an active guard here but Tavares has managed to pass into half guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares dominated that round.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action.#R2#
Melps tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Tavares swivels and escapes.
Tavares digs a good body shot into Melps's ribs.
Melps tries to score a power double leg takedown but Tavares sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Melps somewhat.
Melps tries to clinch
and Tavares counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Melps walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Tavares defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Melps.
Michael Tavares has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Phichael Melps.
Melps shoots in looking for a takedown. Tavares tries to sprawl out of it but Melps keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Tavares manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Tavares fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Melps manages to avoid it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tavares scores with a jab to the head.
Melps closes this distance looking for a takedown but Tavares circles away.
Tavares is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Melps can do to turn this around?
Melps with a lazy takedown attempt
and Tavares connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Melps tries for a takedown but Tavares sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
As Melps looks to move away, Tavares throws a big counter combo but Melps just gets out of the way.
Melps is breathing heavily.
Tavares fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.#T1#
Nice shot lands for Tavares.
Melps moves in looking to clinch but Tavares pushes him off.
No luck for Melps with that takedown attempt.
Tavares swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Melps tries to clinch there but Tavares circles away.
As Melps looks to move away, Tavares throws a big counter combo but Melps just gets out of the way.
Jab, jab by Tavares - just one landing.
Melps tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Tavares swivels and escapes.
We've been told by Tavares's head coaches at Alpha Brasil that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
A head kick from Tavares lands but Melps takes it in his stride.
Melps has his takedown stuffed
and Tavares counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Melps tries for a takedown but Tavares sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Tavares was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Tavares throws a series of punches but Melps moves out of range.
Melps steps in looking to clinch after the strikes miss from Tavares.
Melps fails with the takedown.
An attempted straight right counter from Tavares misses the target.
A jab lands there for Tavares.#T2#
Tavares misses with a body shot.
Melps has his takedown stuffed
and Tavares counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Melps will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Tavares catches Melps with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Tavares displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Melps.
Tavares lands a right hook to the body.
Tavares throws a one two combo.
Melps shoots in looking for a takedown. Tavares tries to sprawl out of it but Melps keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Tavares manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Tavares throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Melps.#T3#
Horrible takedown attempt by Melps or perhaps it was just good defense by Tavares, which made it look bad.
A combination from Tavares does no damage.
Nice takedown defense from Tavares. No joy for Melps on that attempt.
Tavares feinted there with a counter leg kick.
Tavares keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Michael Tavares is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Tavares bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Melps's head backwards.
Tavares scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Melps doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Tavares counters with a one-two to the body.
Horrible takedown attempt by Melps or perhaps it was just good defense by Tavares, which made it look bad.
Tavares works his jab well there, keeping his opponent at a distance.
Melps tries to clinch up.#T4#
Tavares with a hook.
Tavares keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Tavares works the jab nicely.
Melps with a lazy takedown attempt
and Tavares makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Melps has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Tavares.
Melps misses with a takedown attempt - Tavares sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Melps fails with the takedown
and Tavares counters with a straight right hand.
Melps dives in and grabs Tavares's left leg, looking for a takedown. Tavares pushes down on Melps's head and hops out.
Tavares dips to his left and cracks Melps with an uppercut!
Tavares looks to score with a jab to the body but Melps is just out of range.
Tavares bobbing and weaving, closes the distance and lands a hook to the side of Melps's head.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares dominated that second round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. And we move into the final round!#R3#
Tavares lands with a shot to the body.
Melps wants to clinch up but Tavares keeps it at a distance.
Melps shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Tavares counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Phichael Melps seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Melps fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
A little feinted left hand from Tavares on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Tavares swinging wildly here.
Michael Tavares is winning the standup battle so far.
Tavares lets the fists fly and connects with a left straight followed by a right hook.
Tavares throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Melps.
Melps shoots in for a takedown but Tavares shows good takedown defense.
Michael Tavares has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Phichael Melps.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tavares stuffs the takedown.
Melps fails with an attempt to clinch.
It looked like Tavares wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Melps takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
A jab from Tavares finds it's way through Melps's defenses.
Tavares lands with a right hand.
Melps misses with a takedown attempt
and Tavares cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#T1#
Melps dives in and grabs Tavares's left leg, looking for a takedown. Tavares pushes down on Melps's head and hops out.
Tavares is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Tavares connects with a crisp jab.
Melps showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Tavares.
Tavares swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Melps dives in and grabs Tavares's left leg, looking for a takedown. Tavares pushes down on Melps's head and hops out.
Tavares circles away from the clinch attempt
and Tavares counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Melps thinking.
Melps fails with the takedown
and Tavares counters with a left to the body.
Tavares connects with a good right hand that stumbles Melps. Melps circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Tavares throws a sloppy head kick and Melps moves out of range easily.
Melps shoots and misses
and Tavares counters with a nice body shot.
Melps has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.#T2#
Tavares slaps away a takedown attempt from Melps, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Tavares smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
Tavares moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Melps takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Tavares defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Melps.
Tavares connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Melps takes a shot to the body in his stride.
No luck for Melps with that takedown attempt.
Melps takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Tavares lands with a cross.
Melps checks a leg kick.#T3#
The fight stays on the outside here - Melps looks like he's thinking about clinching though.#TD2#
Melps fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Tavares sprawls well initially but Melps persists and gets the takedown into half guard. #SUB#
Tavares is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Melps pulls his head out easily.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Melps not landing any meaningful shots this time. #SUB2#
Melps is working for a submission of some sort.
Melps trying to control the action but Tavares is working from the bottom.
Melps might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Tavares haven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Melps working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.#T4#
Tavares moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.#SUB#
Tavares has his foot on Melps's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Melps works his way back into a safe position though.
Tavares trying to control the position.
Melps missing there with some ground and pound from the guard. #SUB#
Tavares has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Melps can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Melps connects with a couple of short punches.
Phichael Melps has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Michael Tavares is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Melps's corner. There ya go! There ya go!

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge James Glass scores the fight 30:26
Judge James Atkins scores the fight 30:26
Judge Phil Schofield scores the fight 30:26

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Michael Tavares!
A relieved looking Michael Tavares 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: UCF 34: Chuck v Leonardo
Date: Jun 01, 2024

#R1#
Petrov misses the jab.#CL2#
Tavares gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Tavares lands a body shot in the clinch.
Tavares has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Petrov avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Petrov lands with a left to the head.
Petrov misses with a hook from the clinch.
Tavares tries to land knees in the clinch but Petrov avoids the damage to the body.
Petrov lands an uppercut.
Tavares blocks an uppercut.
Tavares working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Tavares has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Petrov after a bit of a struggle.
Petrov throws a head punch that misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A head punch on the inside from Petrov fails to land.
Tavares tries to throw a body punch but Petrov avoids it by throwing Tavares back against the cage.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Tavares.
Petrov tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Tavares trying to land knees to the body. #T1#
Tavares working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Petrov swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Tavares can't find room to land a body shot as Petrov controls the action.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Tavares.
Petrov working aggressively here.
A nice right hand lands inside from Tavares.
Tavares controlling the action here for a moment.
A nice left hand lands by Tavares.
Petrov misses with the head strike.
Tavares lands with a short shot to the head.
Petrov blocks a body shot from Tavares. #BC2#
Tavares pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Petrov bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
A little feinted left hand from Petrov on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Petrov throws a right and a left that both miss.
Tavares throws out a powerful jab.#T2#
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
A looping hook to the body misses from Petrov . Tavares does a little dance to reset his feet.
Tavares scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Petrov doesn't seem bothered though.
Petrov ducks under a wild hook from Tavares.
Petrov swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Petrov takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Petrov connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.#CL2#
Tavares moves into range and clinches up with Petrov .
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Petrov .
Nice body punch from Tavares. #TD2#
Tavares pulls guard.
Petrov has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Petrov passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Tavares is trying to improve his position.
Petrov is looking to take a break and control but Tavares is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #T3#
Tavares is looking to reverse the position.#SUB#
Petrov wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Tavares, who protects the arm well.
Tavares tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Petrov wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control. #SUB#
Petrov is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Tavares has escaped the position, nice work there.
Tavares gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard. #T4#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Tavares is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Petrov looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Tavares with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Tavares is looking to improve his position.
Petrov is pressing down on Tavares's thigh, looking to free his foot. Tavares is holding on for now.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Petrov is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Tavares moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.#SUB#
Petrov has gone for a leg lock! Tavares slips out almost immediately though and dives into Petrov 's guard.#REVB#
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares dominated that round.
That's time! Petrov 's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Tavares jabs Petrov to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Petrov looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
Tavares swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Petrov keeps the fight on the outside.
A telegraphed right hand from Tavares misses the target.
Nice defenses there by Tavares.
Tavares fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Petrov appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
The fight stays on the outside here - Tavares looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tavares is looking to clinch.
Tavares slips a jab from Petrov .
A lazy left from Petrov finds it's target.
Petrov looks to land a right hand but Tavares moved out of range.
Tavares has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#T1#
Petrov throws out a loose jab but Tavares uses good head movement to avoid it.
Tavares comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Petrov misses with a right hand
and Tavares counters with a nice uppercut.
Tavares ducks under a wild hook from Petrov .
Tavares drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Petrov defends it well.
Good shot there by Tavares.
Tavares throws a right and a left that Petrov avoids nicely.
Petrov is looking to counter punch.
Tavares takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Tavares tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Petrov paws at him with a jab and circles away.
A little feinted left hand from Petrov on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.#TD2#
Tavares darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.#SUB#
Petrov looking for submissions off his back.
Tavares landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent. #T2#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.#SUB2#
Tavares looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique.
Petrov on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound. #SUB2#
Tavares is looking for a kimura but Petrov is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Tavares to get the leverage. #SUB#
Petrov is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Tavares pulls his head out easily.
Tavares looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Tavares seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Petrov does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #SUB2#
Tavares is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Petrov has managed to free his arm - good work. #T3#
Tavares slows the pace down in half guard. #SUB#
Petrov looking for submissions off his back.#SUB2#
Tavares is working for a submission of some sort. #SUB#
Petrov looking for submissions off his back.
Tavares working Petrov over with strikes. #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.
Tavares passes the guard and advances to mount!
Petrov is trying desperately to improve position.
Tavares working the ground and pound effectively.
Tavares fakes a shot to the body and cracks his opponent in the head. Nice ground and pound there!
Petrov keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Tavares wants to take Petrov 's back but he can't do it this time.
Petrov tries to reverse the position but Tavares maintains control.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Petrov 's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. Let's get this one finished - here comes the final round!#R3#
Petrov misses with an uppercut. Tavares saw that one coming.
Petrov throws an off balance right hand
and Tavares counters with a nice uppercut.
Tavares lands a jab, followed by a cross and another cross, as Petrov backs up against the cage. #ROC2#Petrov is rocked!
Tavares lands with a big left! Petrov is wobbled badly! Tavares comes in with a flurry of punches and drops Petrov to the floor. The ref jumps in to save him from unneccessary punishment.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:18 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Punches). Michael Tavares!
A very excited looking Michael Tavares 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: UCF 25: Nguyen v Tochukwu
Date: May 04, 2024

#R1#
Melps takes a body punch but keeps moving. #CL2#
Tavares has closed the distance and engaged Melps in a clinch.
A right hook to the body lands for Tavares.
Melps is trying to pull guard but Tavares turns him against the cage and we stay in the clinch.#TD#
Melps jumps guard and drags Tavares to the mat. He's obviously going to be looking for submissions off his back.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Melps avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Tavares looking to pass the guard.
Tavares must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Tavares's corner. There ya go! There ya go! #SUB#
Melps is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle. #SUB#
Melps is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Tavares is aware though and is defending well.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Melps looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Melps tries to land a sweep but no joy. #T1#
Melps keeping full guard, as Tavares tries to pass. #SUB#
Melps is working for submissions here. He's thrown up his legs looking for a triangle but Tavares frees his head nicely. Oh but Melps has switched to an armbar! Tavares is tapping furiously! Lovely submission there!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:32 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Armbar). Phichael Melps!
The defeated Michael Tavares had this to say: 'Congratulations to my opponent. Thank you to the fans for coming out to support. I'll do better next time.'.

Event: UCF 16: Buddha v Boytsov
Date: Apr 06, 2024

#R1#
Sitsongrit misses with a leg kick
and Tavares counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Sitsongrit cracks Tavares with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.#CUT#It looks like Michael Tavares has been cut.
The fight stays on the outside here - Tavares looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Sitsongrit connects with a body shot that sends Tavares's belly button to the back.
Sitsongrit swats away the attempt to clinch by Tavares.
Sitsongrit wants to take advantage of his opponent's missed offense by moving into the clinch.
Tavares fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Sitsongrit avoids it really well and circles away.
A quick step to the side and Sitsongrit tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sitsongrit throws a half hearted mid kick.
Sitsongrit throws a good cross that connects. #T1#
Tavares with a hook.
Tavares looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Sitsongrit is fending him off so far but Tavares persists. Nope, Sitsongrit circles away and we're back to standing.
Sitsongrit connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Tavares shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Sitsongrit defends it nicely.
Swag Sitsongrit has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Michael Tavares.
Sitsongrit misses with an uppercut #TD2#
and Tavares counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Tavares in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Tavares passes Sitsongrit's right leg, so he's now in half guard. #SUB2#
Tavares seems to be working for a kimura but Sitsongrit defends the submission attempt.
Tavares prevents Sitsongrit from improving his position.#T2#
Tavares wants to lay and pray for a moment but Sitsongrit keeps working.
Tavares is thwarting Sitsongrit's attempts to control the position.
Sitsongrit preventing any damage for now, controlling his opponent's head.
Sitsongrit on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Sitsongrit tries to get out of the position.
Sitsongrit wants to get back to full guard.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Tavares lands a nice short elbow.
Tavares missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Sitsongrit knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Tavares on the ground.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Sitsongrit is looking to improve his position.
Sitsongrit is trying to control but can't. #T3#
Tavares tries to pass to full mount but Sitsongrit defends it.
Tavares throwing shots but Sitsongrit is blocking nicely.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Sitsongrit is trying to control but can't.
Tavares not doing much here.
Sitsongrit is trying to get back to full guard.#SUB2#
Tavares is working for a submission of some sort.
Tavares throwing shots but Sitsongrit is blocking nicely. #T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.#SUB2#
Tavares is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Sitsongrit has managed to free his arm - good work.
Tavares has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Sitsongrit is not content to let Tavares control the position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Sitsongrit is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Tavares seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Sitsongrit does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Nice strikes from Tavares there. #SUB2#
Tavares is working for a kimura but Sitsongrit is defending it quite comfortably.
Tavares looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Michael Tavares will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Michael Tavares's cut.
That's time! Sitsongrit's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Tavares fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Sitsongrit misses with the body kick#CL2#
and Tavares counters by moving into the clinch. Good anticipation by Tavares.
Sitsongrit lands a left hand that snaps the head of Tavares backwards.
Tavares lands with a short shot to the head.
Sitsongrit lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Sitsongrit.
Sitsongrit misses with a hook to the ribs.
Sitsongrit prevents the takedown attempt.
Tavares goes for a takedown attempt but Sitsongrit pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
Swag Sitsongrit has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Michael Tavares.
Tavares fails to land the takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tavares takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it. #TD2#
Tavares drives through with a takedown into guard.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Sitsongrit not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Michael Tavares has got the better of the ground game so far.#T1#
Tavares in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Sitsongrit keeping moving, preventing Tavares from controlling successfully.
Sitsongrit wants to sweep here but Tavares controlling him for the moment.
Sitsongrit is working hard here to advance position.
Tavares scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Tavares slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Sitsongrit wants to improve his position but instead Tavares has moved into half guard.
Sitsongrit is looking for a sweep. Tavares is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#T2#
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.
Ground and pound from Tavares.
Sitsongrit is trying to maintain the position but Tavares is very close to passing his half guard.
Sitsongrit is pressing down on Tavares's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Tavares wants to control from the top but Sitsongrit keeps moving.
Tavares missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Tavares wants to control from the top but Sitsongrit keeps moving.
Tavares tries to free his leg and advance position but Sitsongrit is retaining full guard. #T3#
Sitsongrit is trying to control the position from the bottom. #REF3#
The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
We've been told by Sitsongrit's head coaches at Sitsongrit Gym that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Good exchange - Sitsongrit coming out on top.
Sitsongrit takes a step towards his opponent and connects with a left hand, before circling away.
Sitsongrit wants to clinch up but Tavares keeps it at a distance.
Sitsongrit listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Sitsongrit connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Tavares momentarily. #ROC#Tavares is rocked!
Sitsongrit moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Tavares is still on wobbly legs! Can Sitsongrit finish him?
Tavares takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Today's fight clock is brought to you by... OOOH that's a huge shot by Sitsongrit! Tavares is in big trouble here - the ref steps in to save him and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Swag Sitsongrit!
Michael Tavares spoke after the fight, saying 'Congratulations to my opponent. Thank you to the fans for coming out to support. I'll do better next time.'.

Event: SPFT #12
Date: Jan 20, 2024

#R1#
Tavares ducks under a wild hook from Von Tancred.
Tavares throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Von Tancred's waist but Von Tancred gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Tavares off to one side.
The fighters circling - Von Tancred throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Tavares has been working on his takedowns a lot in the buildup to the fight and we can only assume he's going to look to take this to the mat.
Von Tancred is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.#CUT#It looks like Michael Tavares has been cut.
Tavares takes a jab right on the kisser. #ROC#Tavares is rocked!
Von Tancred wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Tavares is still on wobbly legs! Can Von Tancred finish him?#TD2#
Von Tancred gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Tavares to score an easy takedown into full guard.
Von Tancred avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Tavares seems to have recovered his senses.
Tavares wants to control from the top but Von Tancred keeps moving.
Tavares stops Von Tancred from standing up.
Tavares trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Von Tancred keeping moving, preventing Tavares from controlling successfully.
Tavares throwing strikes from guard but Von Tancred blocks nicely. #T1#
Von Tancred wants to sweep here but Tavares controlling him for the moment.
Tavares with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Tavares trying to control but Von Tancred is working from the bottom.
Tavares scoring with some ground and pound.
Tavares with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Von Tancred is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Tavares engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Tavares passes Von Tancred's right leg, so he's now in half guard. #T2#
Von Tancred is trying to stand back up but Tavares is controlling him
Tavares lands with a punch from half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Still in half guard, Tavares seems content to control.
Tavares trying to control the action but Von Tancred is working from the bottom.
Tavares controlling the action here.
Tavares has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Tavares lands with a punch from half guard.
Tavares trying to control from half guard but Von Tancred is working away.
Von Tancred wants to control but Tavares is keeping busy. #T3#
Tavares is keen to just control but Von Tancred is a slippery customer.
Tavares stops Von Tancred from getting back to his feet.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
Tavares is nestled in close to Von Tancred, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Von Tancred is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Tavares scores with a couple of nice shots.
Tavares wants to pass to mount but Von Tancred is defending the position.
Von Tancred on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Von Tancred tries to get out of the position.
Tavares lands strikes from half guard.
Von Tancred tries to get to full guard but Tavares has control of the leg.
Tavares working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that. #SUB2#
Tavares in half guard on the top. He's looking for a kimura... He's got it locked and he's managed to free his trapped foot. Von Tancred tries to escape but it's on too tight and he has to tap! Great BJJ skills there from Tavares!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Michael Tavares!
Michael Tavares is the new lightweight champion!
Michael Tavares thanked the fans post fight for their support.

Event: SPFT #10
Date: Dec 30, 2023

#R1#
Gallegos cracks Tavares with a right hand to the side of the head.#CUT#It looks like Michael Tavares has been cut.
Tavares uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Gallegos.
Gallegos lands the left hand.
Gallegos moves into range and connects with a jab.
Gallegos lands a jab to Tavares's midsection.
Gallegos throws a jab when Tavares was well out of range.
Gallegos connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Tavares momentarily.
Gallegos missing with a left hand there. Tavares was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Gallegos definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Gallegos misses with a wild body shot.
Tavares shoots in for a takedown but Gallegos shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.#CL2#
Tavares has Gallegos up against the cage in a clinch.
Tavares swings away with an uppercut that misses. #BC2#
Tavares's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Tavares uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Gallegos.#T1#
Gallegos falls off balance throwing a combination
and Tavares counters with a stiff right hand.
Gallegos lands a jab.
Tavares tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Tavares takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Tavares lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Tavares uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Gallegos.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Tavares has been working on his takedowns a lot in the buildup to the fight and we can only assume he's going to look to take this to the mat.
Tavares looks for a takedown but Gallegos sprawls well.
Tavares ducks under a wild hook from Gallegos.
A nice side step and Tavares releases a counter shot to the body, but it doesn't find it's home.
Gallegos jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Gallegos ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Tavares moves away.
Gallegos stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Gallegos wants it to stay on the feet.
Emanuel Gallegos has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Michael Tavares.
Gallegos tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Tavares was well out of range. Poor timing from Gallegos.
Tavares tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Tavares defending well as Gallegos loads up on a big left hand. #T2#
Nice sprawl there from Gallegos as Tavares shoots in.
Gallegos swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Gallegos misses with an uppercut. Tavares saw that one coming.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Gallegos throws a hook but Tavares avoids it easily.
Gallegos slaps away a takedown attempt from Tavares, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Gallegos lands a head shot.
Gallegos misses with a straight left.
Tavares doesn't manage to clinch there - Gallegos circles away.
Tavares tries to clinch but fails miserably
and Gallegos connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Nice uppercut lands for Gallegos. That snapped Tavares's head back.
Tavares tries to close the distance and clinch up but Gallegos swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Tavares uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Gallegos.
Gallegos scores with a shot to the body. #T3#
Gallegos jabbing away but nothing is landing.
A little jabbing left from Tavares on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Gallegos swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Gallegos fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Tavares on the side of the head.
Emanuel Gallegos seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Gallegos throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Tavares slips under a jab from Gallegos.
Tavares fails to land the takedown.
Gallegos was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Gallegos connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Tavares tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Tavares takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Gallegos uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Tavares.
Gallegos is looking to counter punch.
Tavares uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Gallegos.
Tavares tries to clinch up.#T4#
Tavares throws a body shot but no joy.
Gallegos misses the shot to the body.
Gallegos throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Gallegos throws a nice looking combination but Tavares bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Gallegos throws a sloppy body shot #TD2#
and Tavares counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Tavares.
Tavares is standing up over Gallegos. Gallegos looks to escape but Tavares dives into side control.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#REVR#
Gallegos is looking for a sweep.
The strikes coming from Tavares are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
Tavares trying to control the position but Gallegos is working away. #SUB2#
Tavares looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Emanuel Gallegos dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Michael Tavares's cut.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.#R2#
Gallegos misses with a two punch combination. #TD2#
Tavares looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
Tavares throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Gallegos is not content to let Tavares control the position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Tavares stops Gallegos from getting back to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tavares is keen to just control but Gallegos is a slippery customer.
Gallegos looks like he's trying to stand up. #SUB2#
Gallegos is defending against the submission attempts here by Tavares. #T1#
Gallegos is trying to stand.
Tavares thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Gallegos's head.
Tavares wants to take a breather but Gallegos is having none of it. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Tavares shoots in looking for a takedown but Gallegos manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Tavares's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Tavares ducks under a wild hook from Gallegos.
Tavares displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Gallegos throws out the jab.
Gallegos ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.#T2#
Gallegos with a body punch. A glancing blow.
Tavares ducks under a wild hook from Gallegos.
A looping hook to the body misses from Gallegos. Tavares does a little dance to reset his feet.
Gallegos looks to land a left hand but Tavares moved out of range nicely.
Gallegos keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Gallegos's corner calls for a 1, 2 combination and Gallegos duly obliges.
Gallegos takes a swing at Tavares's ribcage but misses.
Tavares is looking to clinch but Gallegos is avoiding it.
A little feinted left hand from Gallegos on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Tavares ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.#TD2#
Tavares looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.#SUB2#
Tavares is working for a kimura but Gallegos is defending it quite comfortably. #T3#
Tavares lands with a punch from half guard. #SUB2#
Tavares looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique.
Gallegos blocking the ground and pound attempt from Tavares.
Gallegos knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Tavares on the ground.#T4#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Tavares is figuring out what he wants to do next.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Gallegos is looking for a sweep. Tavares is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Tavares looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Tavares trying to control the action but Gallegos is working from the bottom.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Emanuel Gallegos dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Michael Tavares's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!#R3#
Tavares closes the distance and clinches up with Gallegos, looking for a takedown. Tavares pushes Gallegos against the cage but Gallegos circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Gallegos fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Tavares uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Gallegos.
Tavares shoots in looking for a takedown. Gallegos tries to sprawl out of it but Tavares keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Gallegos manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Tavares with a poor takedown
and Gallegos counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Emanuel Gallegos has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Michael Tavares.
Gallegos misses with a double jab.
Gallegos throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Gallegos connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Tavares momentarily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tavares avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Tavares shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Gallegos is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Tavares can do to turn this around?
Tavares doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Tavares slips a straight right by Gallegos.#T1#
Gallegos misses with a body shot.
Tavares gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Gallegos counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Gallegos throws a body shot but no joy.
Gallegos looks to land a left hand but Tavares moved out of range nicely.
Tavares drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Gallegos defends it well.
Gallegos just misses with a punch to the body.
Tavares swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Tavares defending well as Gallegos loads up on a big left hand.
Tavares displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Gallegos throws out the jab.
Emanuel Gallegos is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#TD2#
Tavares gets a double leg takedown into Gallegos's guard.
Tavares works over Gallegos with some ground and pound from guard.
Tavares throwing strikes from guard but Gallegos blocks nicely.
Tavares pushing down on Gallegos's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work. #T2##SUB2#
Tavares is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Gallegos trying to control but Tavares postures up. #SUB2#
Tavares is working for a submission of some sort.
Tavares seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense. #T3#
Tavares throwing shots but Gallegos is blocking nicely.
Gallegos is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Tavares trying to advance position but Gallegos counters by regaining guard.
Tavares throws an elbow that misses. Gallegos uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Tavares's guard. Nice move by Gallegos!#REVR#
Tavares pulls Gallegos in close to prevent any damage.
Emanuel Gallegos is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.#T4#
Tavares not looking particularly offensive just at the moment. #SUB2#
Tavares has his foot on Gallegos's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Gallegos works his way back into a safe position though.
Tavares looking to hit a scissor sweep but Gallegos is one step ahead there.
Michael Tavares has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Michael Tavares has got the better of the ground game so far.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Tavares has managed to work for a loose triangle. I think Gallegos should be able to defend this one pretty easily though. Oh, Tavares has tightened it up now! Gallegos should have reacted faster there - he's in big trouble and yes, he's tapped out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:55 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Michael Tavares!
Michael Tavares seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

Event: Drago vs Morimoto - SPFT #7
Date: Dec 02, 2023

#R1#
Tavares changes levels and scores with a jab to the body.
Salamanca shakes his hands off, looking to compose himself, but takes a jab to the jaw whilst he does it.
Salamanca shoots for a double leg takedown but Tavares sprawls well. He's pushed Salamanca's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Salamanca avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Salamanca looks for a takedown but Tavares sprawls well.
Salamanca showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Tavares. #TD2#
Salamanca gets caught flat footed, as Tavares shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Salamanca has momentary wrist control but Tavares slips an elbow through the middle.
Tavares trying to control but Salamanca is working from the bottom.
Tavares not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Salamanca utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#T1#
Salamanca trying to control the position here.
Salamanca seems to have improved his submission grappling technique since last time we saw him. Let's see if he can pull off a submission.
Tavares engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Tavares throws a big elbow that misses.
Salamanca being controlled here, momentarily. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.#TD2#
Tavares shoots in and gets a takedown into Salamanca's guard.#T2#
Tavares slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Tavares wants to stand but Salamanca is controlling his posture from full guard.
Tavares showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Tavares trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #T3#
Tavares looking to sit in guard and control but Salamanca gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR#
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Tavares keeping moving, preventing Salamanca from controlling successfully.
Tavares has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Salamanca wants to control from the top but Tavares keeps moving.
Tavares pulls Salamanca in close to prevent any damage.
Tavares can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Salamanca controls the pace.
Salamanca passes easily into side control. Nice work.#T4#
Salamanca tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
Salamanca wants to lay and pray for a moment but Tavares keeps working.
Salamanca tries to move to full mount but Tavares actually manages to regain half guard. #ES2#
Tavares kicks Salamanca off and gets back to his feet.
Salamanca tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Tavares defends well and Salamanca ends up having to push Tavares into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Salamanca sets himself, and Tavares steps forward looking for the clinch! Salamanca avoids it this time.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Jose Salamanca. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Salamanca is looking to take this one to the mat.#TD2#
Tavares successfully pulls guard.
Tavares controlling the position.
Tavares throws some sloppy strikes off his back.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Tavares throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Tavares keeping moving, preventing Salamanca from controlling successfully.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares 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#
Tavares misses with a hook
and Tavares takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #TD2#
Tavares gets a takedown into half guard.
Salamanca is refusing to be controlled, as Tavares sits in half guard.
Tavares not doing much here.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Salamanca is looking to improve his position. #T1#
Tavares not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Tavares not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.
Tavares thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Tavares is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
The referee is asking the fighters to pick up the pace.#REF3#
The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.#T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Salamanca shoots in but Tavares avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Tavares has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Salamanca shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Tavares pinned against the cage. Tavares gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Michael Tavares is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Salamanca takes a head kick and shrugs it off. #TD2#
Tavares shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.#SUB2#
Tavares is working for a submission of some sort. #SU2#
Tavares escapes and gets back to his feet. #T3#
Salamanca fails with a takedown attempt.
Tavares is clearly trying to counter these attacks from Salamanca with a body shot.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Jose Salamanca. That's going to take a lot out of him.#TD#
Tavares gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Salamanca to score an easy takedown into full guard.#ES2#
Tavares is scooting his butt against the cage and has managed to get back to his feet. Salamanca presses him back against the cage, presumably looking to take the fight back to the mat.
Salamanca can't get the takedown.
Salamanca looking for a takedown.
Salamanca is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.#T4##TD2#
Tavares ties up his opponent against the cage and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Tavares no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard.
Tavares tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Tavares keeping moving, preventing Salamanca from controlling successfully.
Tavares can't keep his opponent in guard - Salamanca advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Salamanca looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Salamanca is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Tavares is squirming around, avoiding Salamanca's attempts to control the action.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Tavares has given up his back. Will we see Salamanca going for some submissions?
Tavares tries to escape the position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. This is the final round!#R3#
A nice combination there by Tavares. #CUT2#It looks like Jose Salamanca has been cut.
Salamanca shoots and misses #TD2#
and Tavares counters with a single leg into guard. Salamanca didn't expect that. #SU2#
Tavares stands up from Salamanca's guard - Tavares perhaps looking for a knockout.
Tavares shoots in looking for a takedown. Salamanca tries to sprawl out of it but Tavares keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Salamanca manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing. #TD2#
Tavares manages to get an easy takedown there - catching Salamanca on his heels. He'll look to pass Salamanca's guard now, I'm sure.
Tavares trying to control the position from guard on top but Salamanca is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Tavares must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Salamanca looking to control. #T1#
Tavares throwing strikes from guard but Salamanca blocks nicely.
Tavares is looking to work some ground and pound but Salamanca has wrist control.
Salamanca is trying to control the position but Tavares postures up.
Salamanca looking to control but Tavares passes into half guard.
Salamanca is trying to maintain the position but Tavares is very close to passing his half guard.
Tavares looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Salamanca with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Tavares wants to stand up but Salamanca has a hold of him and won't allow it.
Jose Salamanca has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Tavares takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.#SUB2#
Tavares is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Salamanca has managed to free his arm - good work.
Tavares thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Salamanca's head.
Tavares wants to free his trapped foot but Salamanca is holding on for dear life with his legs.
The referee is asking the fighters to pick up the pace.
Michael Tavares has got the better of the ground game so far.#T3#
Tavares is trying to control the action in half guard but Salamanca is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Salamanca throws a looping overhand right but Tavares ducks down to avoid it.
Salamanca goes for a double leg but Tavares avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Tavares continues to drive forward.
Tavares is defending well against a takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Jose Salamanca. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Salamanca wants a takedown but no success here. #TD2#
Tavares pulls guard successfully.
Salamanca works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Salamanca wants to lay and pray for a moment but Tavares keeps working.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Tavares trying to control from the bottom.
Salamanca is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
Tavares keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard. #T4#
Salamanca looking to control but Tavares is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Tavares is working to get back to half guard.
Salamanca tries to take his opponent's back but Tavares turns with him and manages to move into guard on the top. Nice work.
Salamanca trying to keep a closed guard but Tavares is proving a slippery customer.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Tavares trying to control the position from guard on top but Salamanca is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

And that's the end of the fight!
Michael Tavares comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Tavares 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 Russell Pearce scores the fight 27:30
Judge Columbo Gatti scores the fight 27:30
Judge John Roberts scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Michael Tavares!
A very excited looking Michael Tavares 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: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Sep 15, 2023

#R1#
The crowd cheers as Gimenes lands an impressive looking overhand right. Tavares doesn't seem phased though.
Horrible takedown attempt by Tavares or perhaps it was just good defense by Gimenes, which made it look bad.
A quick step to the side and Gimenes tries to counter with a shot to the body but it doesn't connect.
Nice shot by Gimenes.
Gimenes defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Tavares.
Gimenes scores with a decent looking hook.
Gimenes fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Tavares manages to avoid it.
Tavares takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Gimenes listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Tavares lands a nice looking body shot.
Tavares shoots for a double leg takedown but Gimenes sprawls well. He's pushed Tavares's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Miguel Gimenes has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Michael Tavares.
Gimenes swings for the body but Tavares moves out of range.
Tavares feints the counter takedown.
Tavares fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.#TD2#
Tavares changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Gimenes looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Gimenes wants to control but Tavares postures up.
Tavares trying to control the position but Gimenes is working away. #T1#
Gimenes defending against the ground and pound.
A lull in the action here as Tavares stalls from top position.#SU2#
Tavares stands up and beckons Gimenes to his feet.
Tavares wants to clinch up but Gimenes keeps it at a distance.
Gimenes is looking to counter punch.
Tavares fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Tavares shoots for a double leg takedown but Gimenes sprawls well. He's pushed Tavares's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Gimenes throws a poor cross that misses #TD2#
and Tavares counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Tavares.
Gimenes wants to get back to his feet but Tavares passes into half guard.
Tavares has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.#REVR#
Tavares is trying to control. Gimenes wants to improve his position but can't escape this time. #T2#
Gimenes is trying to maintain the position but Tavares is very close to passing his half guard.
Tavares landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Gimenes is concentrating on defense, preventing Tavares from advancing position.
Tavares keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.#SUB2#
Tavares is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Gimenes has managed to free his arm - good work.
Gimenes is trying to stand up here but Tavares is controlling him well. #T3##SUB2#
Gimenes is defending against the submission attempts here by Tavares.
Tavares sitting and controlling from the half guard.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Tavares moves into full mount! Gimenes won't be happy about that!
Gimenes wants to control but Tavares is having none of it.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Gimenes is in all sorts of trouble here.
Gimenes on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Gimenes tries to get out of the position.#T4#
Tavares misses with a series of strikes from mount. He'll no doubt be working on his ground and pound when he gets back to the gym.
Tavares scoring with strikes but Gimenes is staying in there.
Tavares with good strikes from the mount here!
Tavares in mount throwing good strikes here, bouncing his opponent's head off the canvas.
Tavares avoids the attempt from Gimenes to control.
Poor strikes thrown by Tavares there. More accuracy and less frantic strikes would help!
Tavares lands a nice shot to the head.
Gimenes tries to buck Tavares off but he can't manage it.
Tavares wants to control the pace but Gimenes is squirming around nicely.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Gimenes tries to buck Tavares off but he can't manage it.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Michael Tavares dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.#R2#
A swing and a miss from Gimenes.
Gimenes throws a good cross that connects.
Decent striking displayed by Gimenes there.
Tavares wants to clinch up but Gimenes keeps it at a distance.
Tavares tries for a takedown but Gimenes sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Tavares looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
A slow jab from Gimenes misses its intended target.
Gimenes sets himself, and Tavares steps forward looking for the clinch! Gimenes avoids it this time.
Nice sprawl there from Gimenes as Tavares shoots in.
Miguel Gimenes has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Michael Tavares.
Gimenes scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Tavares doesn't seem bothered though.
Gimenes ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Tavares moves away.
Gimenes lands a nice looking body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Tavares tries to score a power double leg takedown but Gimenes sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Tavares somewhat.
It looked like Gimenes wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Gimenes with a body punch. A glancing blow. #T1#
Gimenes getting the better of the striking in that exchange.#CL2#
Tavares has Gimenes up against the cage in a clinch.
Gimenes keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Tavares's efforts to push away.
Gimenes is working Tavares over against the cage.
Tavares wants to break free. God knows he wants to breaaaak freeee.
Gimenes lands a left hand that snaps the head of Tavares backwards.
Tavares blocking some punches.
Gimenes has a couple of punches blocked by Tavares.
Tavares can't get the takedown.
Gimenes lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
Tavares blocks an uppercut.
Tavares tries to pull guard but Gimenes won't allow it.
Gimenes throws a punch but it's blocked by Tavares.
Gimenes fails to land with a short punch on the inside. #T2##TD2#
Tavares jumps guard.
Tavares looking to hit a scissor sweep but Gimenes is one step ahead there. #SUB2#
Tavares has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Gimenes can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Gimenes preventing the sweep.
Tavares is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Tavares 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#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Gimenes wants to get back to his feet. #T3#
Gimenes wants to control but Tavares is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Tavares is keen to just control but Gimenes is a slippery customer.#SUB2#
Tavares is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Gimenes sees it coming and defends easily.
Gimenes tries to kick Tavares off in order to stand up. Tavares Avoids the leg push though and dives into side control.
Sloppy strikes there by Tavares.#SUB2#
Tavares thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Gimenes is not content to let Tavares control the position. #T4##SUB2#
Tavares is trying to get an arm triangle but Gimenes is defending well.
Tavares has control of an arm but Gimenes manages to advance to Tavares's back!
Gimenes knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Tavares on the ground.
Gimenes biding his time, looking for the opening.
Gimenes's ground tactics aren't going to win him many fans. Let's hope he's got fireworks for us if he gets back to his feet because he's not doing much on the ground.
Tavares breaks Gimenes's hooks off and manages to turn into his guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Miguel Gimenes dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!#R3#
Gimenes keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Tavares on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Tavares shoots in but Gimenes avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Gimenes swats away the attempt to clinch by Tavares.
Tavares shoots for a takedown but Gimenes saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Tavares throws an overhand right that lands on Gimenes's shoulder, as Gimenes tries to avoid the shot.
Gimenes lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Tavares at a distance.
Tavares ducks right into an uppercut from Gimenes.
Gimenes lands with a right hand.
Tavares shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Gimenes as he avoids it easily.
Miguel Gimenes has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Michael Tavares.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Gimenes scores with a jab. Tavares acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Tavares slips a straight right by Gimenes.
Tavares wants to counter the offense by Gimenes and move into the clinch position.
Gimenes lands a body shot.
Tavares will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Tavares takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.#T1#
A shot to the liver by Gimenes. Beautiful body shot.
Michael Tavares is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.#TD2#
Tavares decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
Tavares looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Gimenes tries to get to full guard but Tavares has control of the leg.
Tavares is trying to control the action in half guard but Gimenes is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Tavares passes to full mount!
Gimenes wants to try and get back to his feet.#T2#
Tavares trying to control but Gimenes is having none of it.
Gimenes is trying to stand.
Gimenes is trying to stand but he's just given Tavares his back.#SUB2#
Gimenes is staying cool under pressure, defending well against the rear naked choke attempt from his opponent.
Tavares not allowing Gimenes to control his hands.
Michael Tavares has got the better of the ground game so far.#T3#
Gimenes trying to get back to his feet but Tavares is in full control for now.
Tavares scores with punches from the back. #SUB2#
Tavares looking for the RNC.
Gimenes is trying to stand back up. #SUB2#
Gimenes is staying cool under pressure, defending well against the rear naked choke attempt from his opponent. #T4##SUB2#
Tavares is cranking Gimenes's head sideways - that looks painful. He's managed to get his other arm under the chin and this looks bad for Gimenes! He's tightened the choke and Gimenes is tapping out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:24 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Michael Tavares!

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