Play by Play - Fighter's Fight Commentary

Event: HFA FIGHT NIGHT 12
Date: Jan 01, 2025

#R1##TD#
Smith gets a takedown into half guard.
Banner is staying active underneath Smith, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Smith not throwing his punches with enough precision this time. #SU#
Smith stands up and beckons Banner to join him on the feet.
Banner stalks Smith and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Smith's face. Smith staggers backwards, shaken.#CUT2#It looks like James Smith has been cut.
Smith shoots and misses
and Banner counters with a three punch combo that has Smith backing up. Smith nods at Banner to acknowledge the strikes.
Smith dives in and grabs Banner's left leg, looking for a takedown. Banner pushes down on Smith's head and hops out.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.#TD#
Smith scores with a takedown into Banner's guard.#SU#
Smith gets to his feet and steps away from his opponent. #KD2#
Banner lands a left and a right that send Smith crashing to the mat, dazed. Banner thinks about following him to the mat but decides to wave him back up to his feet!
Smith definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Banner fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.#KD2#
Banner lands a left and a right that send Smith crashing to the mat, dazed. Banner thinks about following him to the mat but decides to wave him back up to his feet!#ROC2#Smith is rocked!
James Smith seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.#T1#
Smith with a lazy takedown attempt
and Banner counters with a right, left combo that wobbles Smith badly! Banner follows up with a massive right hook, straight to the bridge of the nose that knocks Smith out cold! Oh wow, what a finish! Very reminiscent of Koscheck vs Yoshida as Banner finished him against the cage.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:07 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punches). Lamont Banner!
Lamont Banner took to the mic after the fight and begged the organizational hierarchy for a shot at the title.

Event: HFA 29
Date: Dec 07, 2024

#R1#
Banner falls off balance throwing a combination
and Fat connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Fat lands a nice hook to Banner's body. Banner takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Banner lands with a nice body punch.
Banner rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Fat moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Fat lands a nice looking body shot.
No joy there for Banner, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Fat fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Fat moves out of range as Banner strikes.
Banner keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Fat.
Fat looks to land a combination. Banner sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.#CUT#It looks like Lamont Banner has been cut.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Banner lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Fat circles away quickly and effectively.
Fat lands a nice hook to Banner's body. Banner takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
No joy there for Banner, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Fat connects with a body shot that sends Banner's belly button to the back.#T1#
Fat showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Banner.
Fat avoids a punch combination nicely.
Fat fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Banner manages to avoid it.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Banner! But no joy.
Banner rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Fat moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Fat is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Fat avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Fat ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Banner moves away.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Banner! But no joy.
Fat looks to score with a jab to the body but Banner is just out of range.
Banner misses with a body shot
enabling Fat to counter with a crisp jab.
Banner connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Good exchange - Fat coming out on top.#KD#
Fat cracks Banner with a big right hand that sends him to the floor! Banner looks wobbly but he's sprung back up to his feet straight away… can Fat finish him? #ROC#Banner is rocked!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Fat catches Banner with a right, a left, a right. It's raining punches and Banner forgot an umbrella! Another punch and he's down. This one is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punches). Bingo Fat!

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Nov 17, 2024

#R1#
Jones slips a jab and a cross from Banner.
Jones throws a body punch but Banner moves out of range. #TD2#
Jones gets a takedown into half guard.#SUB2#
Jones is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there. #SUB2#
Banner is kicking away at Jones from the bottom - trying to push off and stand up. Jones grabs hold of a leg and drops back for a heel hook! The two fighters roll across the mat, with Banner trying to push Jones off... Banner taps! He's tapped! This one is all over! A throwback to the old Pancrase there with an infrequently seen submission hold! Nice work.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:44 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Heel Hook). King Kong Jones!

Event: BANZAI COMBAT 105
Date: Oct 12, 2024

#R1#
Asakura scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Nice body kick from Asakura.
Banner works Asakura's body with a nice hook.
Asakura has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Rising Sun Training in the buildup to the fight.
Asakura fails to land with a series of punches.
Banner throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Lamont Banner seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Banner keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Asakura.
Banner rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Asakura moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Asakura throws a jab when Banner was well out of range.
Banner takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?
Asakura fails to land with a series of punches.
Asakura throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Asakura dodges the punch combination from Banner.
A big left from Banner misses.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Banner avoids a kick to the body.
Asakura is looking to land body kicks.
Asakura misses with a few strikes there.
Banner cracks Asakura with a good shot that sees him stumbling back into the cage.#T1#
Asakura works Banner's body with a nice hook.
Asakura scores with a punch to the gut of his opponent.
Banner misses with a few strikes there.
Asakura lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Banner on the wrong end of a decent looking cross there.
Asakura looks to land a left hand but Banner moved out of range nicely.
Banner steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Asakura.
Banner ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Asakura throws a hook to the side of Banner's head but Banner sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Banner cracks Asakura with a good jab.
A jab from Asakura misses.
Banner throws a body punch but Asakura moves out of range.
Decent striking displayed by Asakura there.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Asakura blocks a jab.
Banner defending well as Asakura loads up on a big left hand.
Banner scores with a nice looking left hook and follows it up with an uppercut! #T2#
Asakura takes a swing at Banner's ribcage but misses.
Banner takes a swing at Asakura's ribcage but misses.
Asakura digs a good hook to Banner's body.
Banner goes to the watering hole and comes back with a big thumbs up from the judges as he scores a three punch combo.
Asakura misses with an uppercut. Banner saw that one coming.
Sloppy strikes from Banner. Those never looked like landing.
Asakura throws an overhand right that lands on Banner's shoulder, as Banner tries to avoid the shot.
Nice cross by Asakura.
Banner works over Asakura's head and body with a nice combination.
Banner throws a nice looking combination but Asakura bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Banner fakes a head punch and goes low to the body. Nicely done.
Banner scores to the head and body with a nice combination!#ROC2#Asakura is rocked!
Banner walks into a straight right hand from Asakura.
Oh Asakura is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Asakura bobs and weaves and throws out a fast jab that snaps Banner's head backwards.
Asakura seems to have got his legs back now.
Banner rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Asakura moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Asakura appears to be looking for a big counter.#T3#
Asakura misses with a head kick.
Banner avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Banner misses with a two punch combination.
Asakura misses with a left hand
and Banner counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Asakura goes for a spinning back kick but it misses.
Banner throws a predictable looking body shot
and Asakura counters with a straight right hand.
Asakura thows a left - swing and a miss!
Asakura misses with an uppercut. Banner saw that one coming.
Asakura misses with a body shot.
Asakura throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Asakura throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Asakura looks to throw the jab but Banner is out of range.
Banner cracks Asakura with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Banner uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Asakura.
Banner fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Asakura misses with a kick to the body. #T4#
The fighters circling - Asakura throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
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!
Asakura misses with an uppercut. Banner saw that one coming.
We've been informed that Banner has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.
Asakura misses with a body kick.
It seemed like Banner was going to counter with the hook but didn't fully commit to it.
Banner lands with a two punch combination before moving back out of range.
Banner displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Asakura throws out the jab.
A combination from Banner does no damage.
A combination from Banner does no damage.
Banner is working the combinations to good effect here.
Asakura lands a lovely overhand right.
Banner moves out of range of the strikes.
Asakura misses with a left hand
and Banner counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Asakura keeps Banner at a distance using the push kick.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Banner scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
Banner needs to keep his hands up - Asakura had a free shot at his head there.
Banner uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Asakura.
Asakura falls off balance throwing a combination
and Banner counters with a series of strikes. Asakura will be more careful next time no doubt.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Lamont Banner will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Asakura misses with a double jab.
Asakura throws a half hearted mid kick.
Asakura thows a left - swing and a miss!
Asakura dodges the punch combination from Banner.
Asakura bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Asakura dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Good exchange - Asakura coming out on top.
Asakura misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Banner slips a straight right by Asakura.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banner throws a right and a left that Asakura avoids nicely.
Banner throws a series of punches but Asakura avoids them all with ease.
Banner throws a series of punches but Asakura avoids them all with ease.
Asakura throws a series of punches but Banner moves out of range.
The crowd cheers as Asakura lands an impressive looking overhand right. Banner doesn't seem phased though.#T1#
Asakura scores with a spinning back kick!
Asakura feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Banners jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Banner takes one on the button.
Banner defending well as Asakura loads up on a big left hand.
Asakura dodges the punch combination from Banner.
Asakura showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Banner.
Banner throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Asakura counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Banner fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Asakura manages to avoid it.
Asakura misses with a hook. Banner ducked under it nicely.
Asakura throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Nice defenses there by Banner.
Banner sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.
Good standup being displayed there by Banner as he connects with a hook.#T2#
This has been an exciting period of action!
A punch combination from Banner misses.
Asakura scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Banner throws a big shot that misses.
Mikuru Asakura is winning the standup battle so far.
Banner misses with the combination.
Banner is breathing heavily.
Banner misses with a hook
and Asakura cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Asakura slips under a jab.
Asakura misses with a looping left.
Asakura sizes up Banner with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Banner throws out a token jab with nothing on it.
Asakura quickly followed up with a counter body kick but doesn't connect.
Banner throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Asakura.
Asakura goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
Asakura misses with an uppercut. Banner saw that one coming.
A head kick misses from Asakura.
Banner moves out of range of the strikes.#T3#
Banner throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Asakura.
Banner lands a really nice looking cross but Asakura seems unphased.
Banner looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Asakura lands with a hook. Banner tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Banner connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Asakura's hands.
Asakura rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Banner moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Asakura ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Banner moves away.
Asakura throws a hook but Banner avoids it easily.
Nice defenses there by Banner.
Banner throws a right hand that misses
and Asakura counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Banner misses with a two punch combination.
Asakura avoids a punch combination nicely.
Asakura digs a good body shot into Banner's ribs.#T4#
This has been an exciting period of action!
Jab from Asakura.
Nice body punch from Asakura.
Banner takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Banner gets cracked with a nice right hand there by Asakura.#ROC#Banner is rocked!
Banner keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Asakura.
Banner is still on wobbly legs! Can Asakura finish him?
Banner bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Banner seems to have recovered his senses.
Banner ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Banner blocks a jab.
A swing and a miss from Asakura.
Nice shot by Asakura.
Banner swinging wildly here.
Lamont Banner is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Banner pushes forward with a 1-2 combination that forces Asakura back to the cage. Banner follows up with a solid lead hook to the liver.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Banner keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Mikuru Asakura dominated that second round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!#R3#
Banner throws a body punch but Asakura moves out of range.
A little feinted left hand from Asakura on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Banner misses with a wild combination.
Asakura is looking to counter punch.
Banner lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Asakura circles away quickly and effectively.
Asakura throws an overhand right that lands on Banner's shoulder, as Banner tries to avoid the shot.
Asakura looks to land a left hand but Banner moved out of range nicely.
Asakura lands with an uppercut that bounces Banner off the cage and back into range.
Banner stalks Asakura and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Asakura's face. Asakura staggers backwards, shaken.
Asakura keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.
Banner misses with a jab, cross combination.
Banner misses with a body punch
and Asakura counters with a nice body kick.
Banner fails to land with a series of punches.
A telegraphed right hand from Asakura misses the target.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Asakura throws a hook but Banner blocks it.
Asakura throws an overhand right that lands on Banner's shoulder, as Banner tries to avoid the shot.
Banner bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Banner has developed a nice purple lump on his ribcage, as a result of some heavy body kicks from Asakura.
Banner takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.#T1#
Nice defenses there by Banner.
Banner works over Asakura's head and body with a nice combination.
A cross from Asakura lands.
Banner misses with an uppercut
and Asakura counters with a nice kick to the body.
Banner on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
A swing and a miss from Asakura.
Nice uppercut there from Asakura.
No joy there for Asakura, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
A kick lands to the mid section there for Asakura.
Asakura throws a hook to the side of Banner's head but Banner sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Asakura is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Banner.
Crunch! Asakura slams his shin into Banner's torso.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Banner looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Banner throws a series of punches but Asakura moves out of range. #T2#
Banner looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Asakura throws an overhand right that lands on Banner's shoulder, as Banner tries to avoid the shot.
Asakura lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Banner circles away quickly and effectively.
Banner walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Banner moves forwards but Asakura connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Banner misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Asakura jinks towards his opponent looking like he wants to counter with a mid kick but doesn't commit.
Asakura throws a hook but Banner avoids it easily.
Banner uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Asakura.
Asakura keeps Banner at a distance using the push kick.
Banner falls off balance throwing a combination
and Asakura counters with a nice uppercut.
Nice shot by Asakura.
Asakura digs a good body shot into Banner's ribs.
Banner takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders. #T3#
Asakura throws a nice looking combination but Banner bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Banner looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Asakura throws the left hand but Banner avoids the punch easily.
Asakura scores with a kick to the midsection.
Banner bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Asakura throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Banner sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Banner has a pretty nasty looking mouse under his right eye.
Banner throws a series of punches but Asakura avoids them all with ease.
Asakura is looking to land body kicks.
Asakura looks to land a right hand but Banner moved out of range.
Banner misses with a hook. Asakura ducked under it nicely.
Banner takes a push kick to the midsection and stumbles backwards.
Asakura is on the wrong end of a nice combination from Banner.
A punch combination from Asakura misses.
Banner throws a right and a left that Asakura avoids nicely. #T4#
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Nice jab there from Asakura.
Banner keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Banner takes a head kick and keeps coming.
Asakura dodges the punch combination from Banner.
Asakura stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Asakura loads up on a big right hand but Banner slips the punch.
A big right from Asakura misses.
Banner misses with a wild combination.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Asakura looks to throw the jab but Banner is out of range.
Banner misses with a straight left.
Asakura avoids a punch combination nicely.

And that's the end of the fight!
Mikuru Asakura showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Asakura 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 Taro Takaoka scores the fight 29:28
Judge Sosuke Kotani scores the fight 29:28
Judge Yukihiro Shimada scores the fight 30:28

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

Event: BANZAI COMBAT 97
Date: Sep 21, 2024

#R1#
Banner throws a wild combination but nothing lands. #CL2#
Gorilla gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.
Banner can't break the clinch.
Gorilla jumps guard but Banner stands there with Gorilla around his waist. Gorilla gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Gorilla looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Gorilla goes for a takedown in the clinch but Banner prevents it.
Gorilla tries to pull guard but Banner won't allow it.
Lamont Banner has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Magilla Gorilla.
Gorilla tries to pull guard but Banner holds him up against the cage and eventually Gorilla drops back down to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#TD2#
Gorilla gets control of Banner's arms and successfully pulls guard. Gorilla will no doubt be looking for submissions off his back.
Gorilla not looking particularly offensive just at the moment. #T1##SUB2#
Gorilla is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Banner is aware though and is defending well.#SUB2#
Gorilla looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Gorilla looking to sweep here. No luck so far. #SUB2#
Gorilla is working actively from the bottom, looking for submissions. He's escaped his hips to the side and he's going for an armbar! Banner has his hands clasped together but Gorilla extends and breaks Banner's desperate grasp, forcing a tap out due to armbar! Nice BJJ displayed there by Gorilla.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:42 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Magilla Gorilla!

Event: BANZAI COMBAT 87
Date: Aug 31, 2024

#R1#
Banner throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Banner cracks Rocha with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Banner avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Banner swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Rocha shoots in and drives through. Banner sprawls well.
Bentley Rocha seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Nice sprawl there from Banner as Rocha shoots in.
Rocha moves forwards but Banner connects with a nice, crisp jab.
Rocha slips under a jab from Banner.
Rocha dives in and grabs Banner's left leg, looking for a takedown. Banner pushes down on Rocha's head and hops out.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Bentley Rocha. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Rocha tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Banner was well out of range. Poor timing from Rocha.
Nice takedown defense from Banner. No joy for Rocha on that attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Rocha doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Banner counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Rocha takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Banner fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Rocha manages to avoid it.
Rocha misses with a lunging right hand
and Banner counters with a three punch combo that has Rocha backing up. Rocha nods at Banner to acknowledge the strikes.#T1#
Banner darts in and out, connecting with a jab.
Rocha misses with a takedown
and Banner counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Rocha definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Rocha just misses with a punch to the body.
Rocha closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Rocha shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Banner as he jumps to the side.
Banner throws a right and a left that both miss.
Rocha shoots in looking for a takedown but Banner manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Rocha's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Banner connects with a single shot there.
Banner throws a series of punches but Rocha avoids them all with ease.
Rocha tries to work over Banner's front leg with a kick but Banner checks it.
Rocha misses with a right hand
and Banner counters with a two punch combo.
Lamont Banner is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Rocha throws a leg kick
and Banner counters with a left to the body. #T2#
Rocha misses with a low kick.
Banner misses with a wild combination.
Banner stuffs the takedown.
Banner moves into range and throws a combination. A nice jab followed by a hook to the body.
Rocha tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Banner swivels and escapes.
Banner shuffles to his left behind two crisp jabs. Rocha eats them both and turns towards Banner to reposition himself and eats a stinging right hand-left hook combo.
Rocha misses with a takedown attempt
and Banner counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
Banner swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Rocha throws a sloppy body shot
and Banner counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Banner!
Banner uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Rocha.
Rocha gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Banner cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.#T3#
Rocha closes this distance looking for a takedown but Banner circles away.
Banner lands three nice shots there - that looked like it hurt! #TD#
Rocha gets the takedown into side control. #SUB#
Rocha is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Banner has escaped the position, nice work there.
Rocha works a knee to the body and follows up with a nice elbow to the head.
Rocha working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Banner being controlled for a moment.
Rocha trying to control the position but Banner is working away. #T4#
Banner is being controlled here. #SUB#
Rocha tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Banner can do anything to dispel that myth.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!#SUB#
Rocha tries for a kimura but Banner is defending well.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Lamont Banner dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Rocha tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Rocha closes this distance looking for a takedown but Banner circles away.
Rocha misses with a looping right.
Banner takes a shot to the nose. Hopefully that hasn't broken it.
Rocha tries for a takedown but Banner circles away easily
and Banner counters with a series of strikes. Rocha will be more careful next time no doubt.
A big right from Banner misses.
Rocha throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena. #TD#
Rocha shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Banner is trying to defend but Rocha finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Rocha throws a big elbow that misses, also allowing Banner to regain full guard.
Banner has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Rocha keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Banner's head.#T1#
Rocha trying to control but Banner is working from the bottom.
Rocha throwing strikes but missing. #SUB#
Rocha is trying to work a guillotine from the top, or something like that? Don't know how he thinks he's going to get a finish from there.
Rocha trying to control the position from guard on top but Banner is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Banner working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Rocha.
Banner really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Rocha. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Rocha passes Banner's left leg - he's now in half guard. #T2#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Rocha missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Rocha stalling. #SUB#
Rocha is trying to work for a kimura but Banner is defending well.
Rocha passes to side control.
Rocha throws an elbow but Banner slips to the side and avoids it well.#T3#
Rocha tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
Banner is looking to get back to his feet here but Rocha is keeping cool and he's managed to take Banner's back.
We've been informed that Banner has been working hard on his conditioning in the buildup to the fight.#SUB#
Rocha is working for the choke. I would put my money on him to finish from this position. He's rolled onto his back and has dragged Banner with him. Banner is trying to defend but Rocha has an arm under the chin now! Banner grimaces and is forced to tap out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:31 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Bentley Rocha!
Bentley Rocha tried to hype himself up post fight but didn't word it too well and it ended up with him sounding like a bit of a tool.

Event: BANZAI COMBAT 72
Date: Aug 03, 2024

#R1#
Asakura throws a body kick that misses.
Asakura avoids a punch combination nicely.
Asakura misses with a lunging right hand
and Banner counters with a straight right hand.
Asakura swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Banner counters with a nice uppercut.
Banner sees a low kick coming and goes to check it, but it's actually a body kick and it thuds into his unprotected ribs.
Asakura loads up on a big right hand but Banner slips the punch.
Asakura takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Nice defenses there by Banner.
Asakura throws the left hand but Banner avoids the punch easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banner misses with a few strikes there.
Asakura has been working on his boxing with his coaches at Rising Sun Training in the buildup to the fight.
Banner throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Some wild striking there from Asakura. #T1#
Asakura uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Banner tries to bum rush Asakura with a series of wild strikes but Asakura uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Asakura throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Banner sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Banner scores with a three punch combo!
Asakura throws a body kick despite being completely out of range
and Banner counters with a two punch combo.
A swing and a miss from Asakura.
Asakura misses with a left hand
and Asakura takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
A looping hook to the body misses from Asakura. Banner does a little dance to reset his feet.
Banner is looking for the big counter here.
Mikuru Asakura seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
A left lands for Banner.
Banner ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Banner let fly with a counter punch to the body but it didn't land.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Banner misses with a wild combination. #T2#
Asakura throws a hook but Banner blocks it.
A punch combination from Asakura misses.
Asakura looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
A nice combination there by Banner.
Banner displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Asakura throws out the jab.
Banner throws a right and a left that both miss.
Asakura drops his hands momentarily and Banner takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Asakura misses with a body kick.
Asakura throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Banner is looking for the big counter here.
Asakura loads up on a big right hand but Banner slips the punch.
Despite the aggression on Banner's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Asakura misses with a kick to the body.
Banner misses with a few strikes there.
Asakura is looking to counter with a body kick.#T3#
Asakura missing with a left hand there. Banner was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Banner throws a right and a left that both miss.
Asakura looked to counter with a high kick but didn't commit.
Banner lands with a two punch combination before moving back out of range.
Asakura tries to move into range but Banner moves to the side and lands with a nice right hand.
A combination from Banner does no damage.
Asakura throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Asakura misses with a looping right.
Banner takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Banner uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Asakura.
Banner slips under a jab from Asakura.
Banner displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Asakura throws out the jab.
Asakura's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Banner connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Asakura scrambles back to his feet.
A slow jab from Asakura misses its intended target. #T4#
Banner throws a series of strikes that have Asakura backpedaling.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Banner jabs Asakura to the body, keeping him at a distance.
Asakura misses with a body shot
and Banner counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Asakura throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Asakura takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Asakura misses with a hook.
Banner looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Banner is landing a lot of head punches in this opening round! Asakura had better start moving his head a bit unless he wants his face to turn into mush.
Banner throws a series of punches but Asakura moves out of range.
Asakura looks to score with a jab to the body but Banner is just out of range.
Asakura throws a head kick but Banner moves out of range.
Asakura takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
A punch combination from Banner misses.
A combination from Banner does no damage.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Lamont Banner dominated that round.
That's time! Asakura's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.#R2#
Asakura throws a hook but Banner avoids it easily.
This entire fight has taken place on the feet so far and you wonder whether Asakura might be better served trying to take this one to the ground because he's losing the standup battle so far.
Banner throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Asakura throws a shot from downtown. Banner moves away and avoids it.
Banner is loading up here, looking for a big counter of his own.
Asakura throws a right hand that misses
and Banner counters with a right hand to the body.
Asakura throws a head kick but Banner moves out of range.
Banner throws a combination. Asakura tries to block but a couple of punches get through.
Lamont Banner seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Asakura misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Banner.
Asakura misses with a right hand
and Banner makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Asakura takes a swing at Banner's ribcage but misses.
Despite the aggression on Banner's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Asakura throws a lazy head kick
and Banner counters with a left and a right that stings Asakura.
Asakura misses with a body kick.
Asakura misses with an uppercut.
Banner has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Banner misses with a wild body shot. #T1#
Asakura lands with a kick to the ribs.
Asakura missing with a left hand there. Banner was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Banner rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Asakura moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Asakura lands a front kick.
No joy there for Banner, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Asakura scores with a spinning back kick!
Asakura swings widly with a right hand
and Banner counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
Banner uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Asakura.
Banner is looking for the big counter here.
Asakura misses with a hook. Banner ducked under it nicely.
Banner's jab looks to have found its range, popping Asakura under the eye.
Asakura throws out a loose jab but Banner uses good head movement to avoid it.
Banner takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.#T2#
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Asakura scores with a hook.
Lamont Banner is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Asakura throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Banner jabs Asakura right on the nose. Asakura blinks but takes it well.
Asakura throws the kick towards the body but Banner avoids it.
Banner unleashes a big counter combination but Asakura bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
Asakura misses with a straight right.
Asakura looks like he's developed a pretty tasty lump over his left eye. He'll need to avoid taking much more damage to that.
Banner throws a nice looking combination but Asakura bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Banner has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Banner just misses with a punch to the body.
A punch combination from Banner misses.
Asakura drops his hands momentarily and Banner takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Asakura connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.
Asakura misses with a straight right.
Banner is looking for the big counter here.
Asakura moves into range and lands a nice body kick. #T3#
Asakura pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.
Banner is looking for the big counter here.
Asakura throws a hook but Banner blocks it.
Asakura connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Banner momentarily.
Asakura throws a body kick despite being completely out of range
letting Banner counter with a right hand.
Banner keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Asakura lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Banner circles away quickly and effectively.
Asakura throws an off balance right hand
and Banner counters with a one-two to the body.
Banner lets the fists fly and connects with a left straight followed by a right hook.
Banner keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Asakura.
Asakura tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Banner was well out of range. Poor timing from Asakura.
Asakura misses with a body kick. #T4#
Banner lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Asakura circles away quickly and effectively.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Banner throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Banner misses with a double jab.
Banner throws a two punch combo that lands nicely.
Asakura throws a lazy uppercut
enabling Banner to counter with a crisp jab.
Banner is working the combinations to good effect here.
A swing and a miss from Asakura.
Asakura looks to land a right hand but Banner moved out of range.
Asakura misses with a looping left.
Banner dodges the punch combination from Asakura.
Banner throws a series of punches but Asakura moves out of range.
Banner misses with a double jab.
Asakura is looking to counter punch.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Lamont Banner showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's time! Asakura's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!#R3#
Asakura's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Banner connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Asakura scrambles back to his feet.
Asakura scores with a nice body kick.
A decent looking body kick lands there for Asakura.
Banner looks to score with a jab to the body but Asakura is just out of range.
Banner goes to the watering hole and comes back with a big thumbs up from the judges as he scores a three punch combo.
Asakura misses with an attempted mid kick.
Asakura throws a sloppy head kick
and Banner counters with a stiff right hand.
Asakura throws a body kick but he was well out of range there.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Asakura throws the left hand but Banner avoids the punch easily.
Banner looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Banner misses with a jab, cross combination.
Asakura moves out of range as Banner strikes.
Banner has developed a nice purple lump on his ribcage, as a result of some heavy body kicks from Asakura.
Banner steps to his left, right into the path of a big body kick from Asakura. That one must have hurt.#T1#
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Asakura.
Banner misses with a two punch combination.
Asakura is pinned up against the cage taking some big shots here. The referee is looking closely deciding whether he should stop the fight.
Asakura throws a hook but Banner avoids it easily.
Banner moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Asakura misses with a low kick.
Banner throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
An attempted straight right counter from Asakura misses the target.
Banner throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Asakura misses with a body kick.
Asakura looks to land a right hand but Banner moved out of range.
Asakura showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Banner. #T2#
No joy there for Banner, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Banner defending well as Asakura loads up on a big left hand.
Asakura misses with a shot to the body
and Banner cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Banner will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Banner takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Banner fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Asakura thows a body kick. Banner tries to catch it but that hurt him.
Asakura throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Asakura is looking to land body kicks.
Asakura looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
A thudding body kick lands there by Asakura!
Asakura looking to land some kicks to the body here. #T3#
Asakura thuds his shin into the meat of Banner's side.
Banner throws a left and a right that both miss
and Asakura counters with a straight right hand.
Banner takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Banner takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Banner looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Asakura misses with a looping right.
Banner is looking for the big counter here.
A head kick misses from Asakura.
Banner moves out of range as Asakura throws a body kick.
Despite the aggression on Banner's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Asakura thuds a mid kick into his opponent's body. That will wear on Banner if he has to take too many more of those.
Asakura throws a sloppy body shot
and Banner counters with a nice uppercut.
Asakura connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.#T4#
Asakura throws a body kick that sends a sickening thudding noise reverberating around the arena.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Asakura moves into range and lands a nice body kick.
Asakura tries to land a front kick but Banner steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Banner throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Asakura throws a jab when Banner was well out of range.
Mikuru Asakura has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Banner slips a straight right by Asakura.
Banner uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Asakura.
Banner on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
Asakura tries to land a front kick but Banner steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Asakura takes a jab right on the nose. That must have hurt but he shrugs his shoulders and looks to return the favor.
Lamont Banner is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Banner staying out of range there.

And that's the end of the fight!
That was a close round. You could make an argument for either fighter but I would give it to Mikuru Asakura.
Well Banner 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 Columbo Gatti scores the fight 28:29
Judge Russell Pearce scores the fight 28:29
Judge Lou da Vinci scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Lamont Banner!
A pretty intense looking Lamont Banner took the opportunity post-fight to ask for a shot at the title.

Event: BANZAI COMBAT 64
Date: Jul 13, 2024

#R1#
Banner rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Tanaka moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Tanaka lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Banner misses with a jab, cross combination.
Tanaka is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Banner.
Banner keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Tanaka.
We've been told by Banner's head coaches at Rabid Dog that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Tanaka tries for a takedown but Banner sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Tanaka tries to clinch up but Banner circles away and keeps his distance.
It looked like Banner was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Tanaka.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Tanaka lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Banner has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Banner and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Tanaka dodges the punch combination from Banner.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banner slips a straight right by Tanaka.
Daichi Tanaka seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Tanaka with a hook.
Banner scores with a jab to the jaw.#T1#
Banner lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Tanaka circles away quickly and effectively.
Tanaka fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Banner avoids it really well and circles away.
Banner scores with a three punch combo!
Banner misses with a two punch combination.
Tanaka tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Banner paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Banner went nuts there looking for a big combo counter but none of the flurry connected.
Tanaka looks to land a right hand but Banner moved out of range.
Good exchange - Banner coming out on top.
Banner misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Tanaka changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.#T2#
Tanaka looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Banner is fending him off so far but Tanaka persists. Nope, Banner circles away and we're back to standing.
Lamont Banner has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Daichi Tanaka.
A big right from Tanaka misses.
Tanaka throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Banner counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.#CL2#
Tanaka moves into the clinch successfully.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Tanaka misses with the head strike.
Banner is looking to break free of the clinch but Tanaka has double underhooks.
Tanaka is struggling to control the position.
The fighters are pressed against the cage, as the pace of the fight slows. #T3#
Tanaka prevents Banner from breaking the clinch.
Banner wants to get back to striking at distance but Tanaka won't allow it.
Banner is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.
Tanaka has a couple of punches blocked by Banner. #TD2#
Tanaka manages to pull guard. #SUB2#
Tanaka has managed to work for a loose triangle. I think Banner should be able to defend this one pretty easily though. Oh, Tanaka has tightened it up now! Banner 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 4:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Daichi Tanaka!

Event: BANZAI COMBAT 45
Date: Jun 15, 2024

#R1#
Thompson showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Banner.
And Thompson tries to counter it with a takedown but Banner pushes his down on his head and steps out.
We can't be sure of the tactics at this early stage but we have heard that Thompson 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.
Thompson shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Banner as he jumps to the side.
Banner swings wildly with a couple of big hooks #TD2#
and Thompson counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Thompson.
Thompson passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Banner stops Thompson from passing to mount.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banner is not content to let Thompson control the position.
Thompson throwing shots but missing, from side control. #T1#
Thompson has knee on belly and moves into mount.
Thompson has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Thompson punching from mount but Banner doing a good job of avoiding damage.
Banner is trying to get back to his feet but can't.
Thompson looking to control but Banner is working nicely, looking to advance position himself. #SUB2#
Thompson is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Banner can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.
Thompson misses with a head shot.#T2#
Poor strikes thrown by Thompson there. More accuracy and less frantic strikes would help!
Thompson is landing with some decent strikes but Banner is trying to advance his position so the referee is letting the fight continue.
Thompson throws an elbow from mount that misses. Lucky escape for Banner because Thompson loaded up on that one.
Thompson with shots to the head and body - Banner looks very uncomfortable down there.
Banner on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Banner tries to get out of the position.#SUB2#
Thompson working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet.
Thompson can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Banner is looking to escape.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Thompson thowing strikes but they're hitting the gloves, not doing any damage. #T3##SUB2#
Thompson is going oldschool here, as he tries to force Banner to tap using a forearm choke. This isn't 1993 though, so Banner shrugs it off.
Thompson wants to control the pace but Banner is squirming around nicely. #ES#
Banner bucks Thompson off and manages to get back to his feet!
Thompson misses with a takedown
and Banner counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.#T4#
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Banner!
We've been told by Banner's head coaches at Rabid Dog that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Thompson is trying hard to land a takedown here. Banner sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Lamont Banner has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Emmanuel Thompson.
Banner looks to land a combination but Thompson avoids it well.
Thompson dodges the punch combination from Banner.
Thompson shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Banner as he avoids it easily.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Banner ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Thompson moves away.
Banner throws a series of punches but Thompson avoids them all with ease.
Thompson tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Thompson misses with a takedown
and Banner counters with a one-two to the body.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Emmanuel Thompson will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!#R2#
Banner looks to land a combination. Thompson sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Thompson dodges the punch combination from Banner.
And Thompson tries to counter it with a takedown but Banner pushes his down on his head and steps out.
No joy there for Banner, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Banner moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Banner misses with a wild combination.
Thompson feints the counter takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banner tries to bum rush Thompson with a series of wild strikes but Thompson uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Thompson fails with a takedown attempt. #T1#
Banner throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Thompson avoids a punch combination nicely.
Thompson shoots in for a takedown but Banner shows good takedown defense.
Thompson fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Banner manages to avoid it.
Banner appears to be looking for a big counter.
Banner lands a slapping body shot.
Banner lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Thompson at a distance.
Banner stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Banner wants it to stay on the feet.
Lamont Banner has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Emmanuel Thompson.#T2#
Banner misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Banner connects with a body shot.
Thompson darts in looking for a takedown but Banner gets double underhooks and turns Thompson into the cage.
Banner seem to be loading up, looking for a big counter.
Thompson slips a jab and a cross from Banner.
Banner rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Thompson moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Lamont Banner is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Banner looks to land a combination but Thompson avoids it well.
Banner misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Banner throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #T3#
Banner throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Lamont Banner is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Thompson dodges the punch combination from Banner.
Thompson feints the counter takedown.
Banner misses with a double jab.
Thompson looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Banner lands with a straight right. Thompson didn't see that one coming.
Banner fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
Banner swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Thompson shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Banner but Banner pushes him off and we're back to square one.#T4#
Banner throws a series of punches but Thompson moves out of range. #TD2#
Thompson scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Sloppy strikes there by Thompson.
Thompson trying to control the position but Banner is working away. #SUB2#
Thompson is working for what looks like an arm triangle here. Banner is trying to escape and Thompson transitions quickly into an armbar! He's slapped it on tight and Banner is forced to tap! Nice work there by Thompson! Very nice indeed!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:51 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Emmanuel Thompson!

Event: BANZAI COMBAT 35,5
Date: May 25, 2024

#R1#
Banner leaves Rivera with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Banner is looking for a counter combo.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
Banner swinging wildly here.
Banner looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
We've been told by Banner's head coaches at Rabid Dog that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Rivera moves away from the strike by Banner.
Rivera feints the counter takedown.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banner lets the fists fly and connects with a left straight followed by a right hook.
Rivera on the wrong end of a vicious looking body shot. #TD2#
Rivera drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.#T1##SUB2#
Rivera is trying to get an arm triangle but Banner is defending well. #SUB2#
Rivera tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Rivera has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Banner is not content to let Rivera control the position. #SUB2#
Rivera is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Banner is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Rivera controlling from side mount.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Rivera working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.#T2##SUB2#
Rivera tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Rivera has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #SUB2#
Rivera working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it. #SUB2#
Rivera goes for an armbar! This could be all over! Wait, no, Banner rolls with the submission and now he's on top in Rivera's guard! Nice work there by Banner! #T3#
Rivera pulls Banner in close to prevent any damage. #SUB2#
Banner avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Rivera manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Banner manages to get himself to full guard. #REVB##SUB2#
Rivera thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Rivera works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Rivera sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Banner defending well though. #T4#
Rivera is working hard to pass the guard. He's done it - he's now in full mount! Trouble for Banner! #SUB2#
Rivera has hold of Banner's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and Banner manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Rivera working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet.
Banner is not a happy chappy… he wants out of there.
Rivera throws some wild stikes that Banner manages to avoid easily. #SUB2#
Rivera looks like he's working for a submission but he's not found anything just yet.
Banner trying desperately to get to his feet.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Antonio Rivera dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2#
Rivera will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Banner with a body punch. A glancing blow.
A combination from Banner does no damage.
And Rivera tries to counter it with a takedown but Banner pushes his down on his head and steps out.
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Banner!
Banner lands a vicious shot with the stealth of a sniper and the strength of a viper. Are vipers that strong? I can think of lots of things that are stronger than a viper - not many rhyme with sniper though.
Rivera dives in and grabs Banner's left leg, looking for a takedown. Banner pushes down on Rivera's head and hops out.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Banner misses the shot to the body.
Lamont Banner is winning the standup battle so far.
Banner displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Rivera.
Banner throws a big counter combination but Rivera scrambles out of danger and avoids any damage.
Lamont Banner has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Antonio Rivera.#T1#
Banner looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Danga de danga de dang - Banner scores with a four punch combination!
Banner catches Rivera with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
Nice straight punches there by Banner. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Banner.
Rivera fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Banner avoids it really well and circles away.
It looked like Banner was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.#T2#
Rivera shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Banner sprawls well. Banner wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Rivera gets slowly back to his feet.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Banner scores with a shot to the body.
Jab by Banner.
Banner's corner calls for a 1, 2 combination and Banner duly obliges. #T3#
Banner closes the distance and lands a one-two.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Rivera.
Banner appears to be looking for a big counter.
Banner looks to land a combination. Rivera sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.#ROC#Rivera is rocked!
Rivera avoids a punch combination nicely.
Rivera tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Lamont Banner is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.#KD#
Banner lands a left and a right that send Rivera crashing to the mat, dazed. Banner thinks about following him to the mat but decides to wave him back up to his feet!
Rivera is still on wobbly legs! Can Banner finish him?
Lamont Banner is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#T4#
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Rivera doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Banner counters with a crisp right that sends Rivera to the canvas! Banner follows up with punches from the mount and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:16 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Lamont Banner!
Lamont Banner decided to go for the less than humble approach in his post fight interview, telling everyone how he is going to conquer the world. The crowd seemed to like it when really that sort of approach could have gone either way.

Event: BANZAI COMBAT 29
Date: May 10, 2024

#R1#
Banner lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Thompson circles away quickly and effectively.
Thompson looks for a takedown but Banner sprawls well.
Banner went nuts there looking for a big combo counter but none of the flurry connected.
Thompson has a takedown stuffed.
Banner moves out of range of the strikes.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
No joy there for Banner, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Banner throws a right and a left that Thompson avoids nicely.
Thompson swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Thompson has his head slapped from side to side by a 3 punch combination. That must have hurt him.#T1#
Banner fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
A leg kick checked by Banner.
Banner went nuts there looking for a big combo counter but none of the flurry connected.
Banner rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Thompson moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
A little jabbing left from Thompson on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Banner moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Banner checks the leg kick.
Lamont Banner is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.#TD2#
Thompson fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Banner to the ground. Thompson is now in Banner's guard.

Banner is edging up against the cage. He's using the cage to get back to his feet. Nice work there - the fighters are clinched.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Thompson tries to pull guard but Banner forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Lamont Banner has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Emmanuel Thompson.#T2##TD2#
Thompson manages to pull guard. #SUB2#
Thompson is active off his back here, looking for submissions. #SUB2#
Thompson is looking for a triangle but Banner pushes his legs off easily. #SUB2#
Thompson looking for a guillotine here but Banner defends easily.
Banner would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard. #T3##SUB2#
Banner got a little sloppy there for a moment and Thompson has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Banner has managed to get both his arms back between Thompson's legs - danger averted.#SUB2#
Thompson is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Banner is aware though and is defending well.
Our spies down at at Cozad MMA Hilo inform us that Thompson has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?#SU#
Banner gets to his feet - Thompson follows without any prompting.
Banner throws a shot from downtown. Thompson moves away and avoids it.
Thompson avoids a punch combination nicely.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Thompson! But no joy.#T4#
Banner lands with a cross.
Thompson dodges the punch combination from Banner.
Banner tests Thompson's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Banner looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Banner throws a series of punches but Thompson moves out of range.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Lamont Banner dominated that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!#R2#
A combination from Banner does no damage.
Banner jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Thompson slips a jab and a cross from Banner.
Banner scores with a decent looking hook.
A big left from Banner misses.
Thompson with a poor takedown
and Banner counters with a stiff right hand.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sloppy strikes from Banner. Those never looked like landing.
Thompson fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Banner avoids it really well and circles away.#T1#
Banner digs a good body shot into Thompson's ribs.
Banner throws a nice looking combination but Thompson bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Thompson drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Banner defends it well.
Banner misses with a jab, cross combination.
A lazy left from Banner finds it's target.#T2#
A punch combination from Banner misses.
Banner lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Banner is using his height advantage well here, landing a good percentage of his punches.
Banner lands with a nice combination. Thompson backs away looking to recover.#ROC#Thompson is rocked!#CUT#It looks like Emmanuel Thompson has been cut.
It looks like Banner has been trying to sharpen up his punching technique, as it looks crisper than last time we saw him.
Thompson tries for a takedown but Banner circles away easily
and Banner counters with a crisp right that sends Thompson to the canvas! Banner follows up with punches from the mount and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:33 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Lamont Banner!
Lamont Banner bigged himself up after the win. The crowd seemed to love it.

Event: BANZAI COMBAT 21
Date: Apr 19, 2024

#R1#
Dahan has his takedown stuffed
and Banner counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Banner lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Dahan circles away quickly and effectively.
Banner lands an overhand right.
Dahan closes this distance looking for a takedown but Banner circles away.
Dahan tries for a takedown but Banner circles away easily
and Banner counters with a three punch combination, finished off with a leg kick. Nice work.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Scooter Dahan. 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.
Dahan has his takedown stuffed
enabling Banner to counter with a crisp jab.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.#T1#
Dahan shoots in but Banner avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Banner is using his reach advantage to land shots from outside his opponent's range.
A right-left combo lands from Banner.
Dahan swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Banner counters with a nice uppercut.
Dahan bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Dahan takes a punch to the jaw and another one to the bread basket.
Dahan doesn't succeed with the takedown
letting Banner counter with a right hand. #T2#
A slow jab from Banner misses its intended target.
Banner has worked on his takedown defense in the runup to this fight and it is paying off so far.
Dahan shoots and misses
and Banner counters with a stiff right hand.
Banner lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Dahan takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Banner tests Dahan's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Lamont Banner is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Banner throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Dahan on the side of the head.
Dahan misses with a shot to the body
and Banner counters with a straight right hand.#T3#
Banner loads up on a big right hand but Dahan slips the punch.
It looked like Dahan was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.
Banner pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
An attempted straight right counter from Dahan misses the target.
A punch combination from Banner misses.
Banner tests Dahan's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Banner looks to throw the jab but Dahan is out of range.
Dahan attempts a counter takedown but Banner avoids it well and moves away.
Banner lands a head shot.
Dahan with a lazy takedown attempt
and Banner counters with a straight right hand.
Dahan shoots and misses
and Dahan takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Horrible takedown attempt by Dahan or perhaps it was just good defense by Banner, which made it look bad. #T4#
Banner cracks Dahan with a right hand to the side of the head.
Dahan tries for a takedown but Banner circles away easily
and Banner counters with a three punch combo that has Dahan backing up. Dahan nods at Banner to acknowledge the strikes.
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!#TD#
Dahan throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Banner was covering up waiting for the punch and Dahan finishes the takedown easily into guard.

Banner is scooting his butt against the cage and has managed to get back to his feet. Dahan presses him back against the cage, presumably looking to take the fight back to the mat.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Lamont Banner dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!#R2##TD#
Dahan shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Banner is trying to escape back to his feet but Dahan uses the scramble to pass into side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Banner is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Dahan asserts his dominance and retains side control.
Dahan sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Banner is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Dahan tries to move into full mount but can't pass Banner's legs.
Dahan trying to control the position but Banner is working away. #T1##SUB#
Dahan tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Banner can do anything to dispel that myth.
Dahan scores with punches from side control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Dahan remains in side control and seems content to stay there. It's a versatile position from which he can work both strikes and submissions, whilst maintaining that control, so maybe he'll sit here for a while. #T2#
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.
The strikes coming from Dahan are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
Dahan advances nicely into full mount.
The referee warns Banner that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head.
The referee warns Banner that he has to improve his position here as he takes two more clean shots to the head. #ES2#
Banner bucks up and throws Dahan to the side - he's got back to his feet. Great escape!
Banner throws a left and a right that both miss #TD#
and Dahan counters with a nice double leg into side control. Banner won't be happy with that.
Dahan wants to lay and pray for a moment but Banner keeps working.
Banner dodges the ground and pound from Dahan.
Dahan has been looking to land a fair amount of strikes on the ground. He might be looking to soften his opponent up in order to work for a submission.#T3#
Dahan postures up a little and throws a couple of hammerfists but they don't connect properly. #SUB#
Dahan is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Banner has escaped the position, nice work there.
Dahan wants to control but Banner is keeping him busy. #SUB#
Dahan is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Banner knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Dahan throws an elbow but Banner slips to the side and avoids it well.#T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Dahan throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Banner really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Dahan. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.#SUB#
Dahan tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Dahan tries to advance to mount but Banner denies him.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Dahan is working hard here to advance position.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Scooter Dahan dominated that second round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!#R3#
Nice shot lands for Banner.
Dahan shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Banner but Banner pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Dahan steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Banner.
Banner has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Banner bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.
Lamont Banner is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Dahan shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Banner counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Banner looks to land a combination but Dahan avoids it well. #T1#
The crowd cheers as Banner lands an impressive looking overhand right. Dahan doesn't seem phased though.
Banner misses with an uppercut. Dahan saw that one coming.
Dahan attempts a counter takedown but Banner avoids it well and moves away.
Dahan has his takedown stuffed
enabling Banner to counter with a crisp jab.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Scooter Dahan. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Banner connects with a hook to the side of his opponent's head.
Banner throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Dahan misses with a takedown attempt
letting Banner counter with a right hand.
Dahan misses with a takedown attempt
and Dahan takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #T2#
Dahan with a lazy takedown attempt
and Banner cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Dahan gets his head snapped back by a nice shot there.
Banner moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Dahan shoots and misses
and Banner counters with a series of strikes. Dahan will be more careful next time no doubt.
Dahan shoots and misses
and Banner counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Dahan throws a series of punches but Banner moves out of range.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Banner! But no joy.#T3#
Dahan darts in looking for a takedown but Banner gets double underhooks and turns Dahan into the cage.
Banner unleashes a big counter combination but Dahan bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.#TD#
Dahan successfully pulls guard.
Dahan tries to land a sweep but no joy. #SUB#
Banner avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Banner trying to stand up but can't free himself from Dahan's guard.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.#SUB#
Dahan is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Banner is aware though and is defending well.#SUB#
Dahan is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Banner is aware though and is defending well.#SUB#
Dahan is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Banner is aware though and is defending well.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.
Banner has decided he wants to stand but the closed guard of Dahan is proving hard to escape from. #REF3#
The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Decent striking displayed by Banner there.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Banner looks to land a combination. Dahan sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Banner throws a combination. Dahan tries to block but a couple of punches get through.

And that's the end of the fight!
Lamont Banner comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Banner has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Tatsuya Matsuyama scores the fight 27:29
Judge Yukihiro Shimada scores the fight 27:29
Judge Shigeki Sano scores the fight 27:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Lamont Banner!
In his post fight interview, Lamont Banner started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

Event: Quick Fight Championship
Date: Mar 22, 2024

#R1#
Joyce shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Banner counters with a stiff right hand.
Banner moves into range and connects with a jab.
Joyce closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Banner sizes up Joyce with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Banner throws a series of strikes that have Joyce backpedaling.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Banner, as that shot connected.
Joyce has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Joyce there as he acknowledges the shot.#ROC#Joyce is rocked!
Banner stalks Joyce and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Joyce's face. Joyce staggers backwards, shaken.
Joyce is still on wobbly legs! Can Banner finish him?
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Banner feints with a jab and clips Joyce right behind the ear with a massive overhand right! Joyce is sent crashing into the canvas and Banner leaps in for the kill! Joyce tries to get to his feet but Banner is just battering him from every conceivable angle. The ref decides that Joyce is in need of a savior and steps in!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:33 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Lamont Banner!

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