Play by Play - Manager's Fight Commentary

Event: The Island Season 9, 155 lbs, Round 2
Date: May 05, 2019

#R1##TD#
Yamamoto shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Yamamoto was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
We've been hearing good reports from Yamamoto's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
Smith tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Smith is still trying to improve position.#SUB#
Yamamoto thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead. #SUB#
Yamamoto goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Smith has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Yamamoto but great work by Smith.
Yamamoto is looking to regain half guard here but Smith keeps moving and retains side control.
Yamamoto gets back to half guard.
Smith scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Yamamoto gets full guard.
Smith works over Yamamoto with some ground and pound from guard.#T1##SUB#
Yamamoto is looking for a triangle but Smith pushes his legs off easily. #SUB#
Yamamoto had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Smith defends it easily.
Smith working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Yamamoto's head.#SUB#
Yamamoto working for a triangle but Smith defends it easily. #SUB#
Yamamoto has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Smith can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #SUB#
Yamamoto had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Smith defends it easily.#T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Smith content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Smith working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Yamamoto's head.
Smith is in close to Yamamoto's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Smith scoring with punches to the head and body.
Smith distracts Yamamoto with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Smith trying to control but Yamamoto is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Smith avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Smith chips away with some ground and pound.
Smith postures up and lands a big shot to Yamamoto's brow. #T3#
Smith working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Yamamoto is working an open guard here, looking to improve his position. No doubt that will leave him open to counters but at least he's being more offensive.
Yamamoto is working hard here to advance position.
Smith with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Smith looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Smith sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Yamamoto's guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Smith working the head and body with strikes. #SUB#
Yamamoto actively working from the bottom here.
Yamamoto is staying active underneath Smith, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Yamamoto wants to improve his position but Smith is controlling well.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Smith connects with a nice short shot to Yamamoto's temple.
Smith trying to control the action but Yamamoto is working from the bottom. #T4#
Yamamoto has hold of Smith's hands but Smith slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
Smith seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Smith working Yamamoto over with strikes.
Smith seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Smith is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Ground and pound from Smith.
Smith drops an elbow to the side of Yamamoto's head.
Smith is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Smith working over Yamamoto with some ground and pound. Yamamoto looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.#SUB#
Yamamoto looking for submissions off his back.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

James Smith 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#
Smith shoots in looking for a takedown. Yamamoto tries to sprawl out of it but Smith keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Yamamoto manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Smith tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Yamamoto defends well and Smith ends up having to push Yamamoto into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.#TD2#
Smith drives through with a takedown into Yamamoto's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.#SUB#
Yamamoto escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Smith gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance. #SUB#
Smith got a little sloppy there for a moment and Yamamoto has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Smith has managed to get both his arms back between Yamamoto's legs - danger averted.
Yamamoto has momentary wrist control but Smith slips an elbow through the middle.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Yamamoto is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Smith content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots. #SUB#
Yamamoto is looking for a triangle but Smith pushes his legs off easily. #T1#
Smith landing with the ground and pound.
Yamamoto has momentary wrist control but Smith slips an elbow through the middle.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Smith's corner. There ya go! There ya go! #SUB#
Yamamoto is looking for a triangle but Smith pushes his legs off easily.
Smith lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Smith is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Smith content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots. #ROC2#
Yamamoto is rocked!#SUB#
Yamamoto has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Smith can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Oh Yamamoto is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Smith content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots. #T2#
Smith scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Smith postures up and lands a big shot to Yamamoto's brow.
Smith keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Yamamoto's head.
Smith loads up on a big left hand. Yamamoto felt that one! He's just covering up now, not defending himself intelligently - Smith looks towards the ref and unloads with 3 more big shots and the ref has no choice but to stop the fight! Yamamoto can't hide his disappointment, as Smith celebrates the victory.

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

Event: The Island Season 9, 185 lbs, Round 2
Date: May 05, 2019

#R1#
A jab from Kiki does it's job there.
Gomi closes this distance looking for a takedown but Kiki circles away.
Kiki lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.#CUT2#
It looks like Takanori Gomi has been cut.
A looping hook to the body misses from Gomi. Kiki does a little dance to reset his feet.#TD#
Gomi throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Kiki was covering up waiting for the punch and Gomi finishes the takedown easily into guard. #ES2#
Kiki pushes Gomi off and scrambles back to his feet. #KD2#
Kiki cracks Gomi with a big right hand that sends him to the floor! Gomi looks wobbly but he's sprung back up to his feet straight away… can Kiki finish him? #ROC2#
Gomi is rocked!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Kiki lands a big uppercut and this one is all over! His foe lies motionless on the canvas - a massive one punch knockout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:42 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Repa Kiki!
A very excited looking Repa Kiki 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: The Island Season 9, 205 lbs, Round 2
Date: May 05, 2019

#R1#
Gracie takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing. #TD#
Sakuraba is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Gracie's half guard.
Sakuraba has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.#SUB#
Sakuraba is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
The fighters are battling for position here. Gracie manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Sakuraba has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.#SUB2#
Sakuraba is sitting in close to Gracie's body. Gracie has gone for a guillotine from the bottom. Oh damn, that looks pretty tight! Sakuraba is panicking - it looks like this one could be all over! Yes, Sakuraba is tapping! That was a very nice submission by Gracie.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:47 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Royce Gracie!
Royce Gracie decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: The Island Season 9, 145 lbs, Round 1
Date: May 04, 2019

#R1##TD2#
Vladislavovich darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Vladislavovich looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Vladislavovich is looking to advance position but Sakurai won't allow it. #SUB#
Sakurai looking for subs from the bottom but Vladislavovich mounts him!
Sakurai is looking to improve his position but Vladislavovich isn't that keen on the idea.
Vladislavovich manages to capitalize on a mistake by Sakurai to take his back!
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sakurai tries to break free. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich has his opponent's back and is working for the choke.
Sakurai tries to break free. #T1##SUB2#
Vladislavovich is looking for the choke from the back position but Sakurai is controlling his hands well.
Vladislavovich controlling well, preventing Sakurai from escaping the position.
Sakurai has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.#SUB2#
Sakurai showing good submission defense here.
Vladislavovich has the hooks in. Sakurai is trying to push off one leg but he has to do so cautiously to avoid being submitted. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich has his hand under the chin of his opponent looking for the choke. He's nearly got it! This one could be all over! But no, Sakurai has freed his hand and lives to survive another… well, another couple of seconds at least!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich is working hard for the rear naked choke here. #T2#
Sakurai is trying to break free.
Sakurai manages to reverse the position and now he's in Vladislavovich's guard. Nice work there by Sakurai.
Sakurai passes into half guard. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich looking for submissions off his back.
Sakurai is trying to advance to mount but he's lost his balance and Vladislavovich reverses the position - he's now on top in Sakurai's guard.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Sakurai looking for a sweep. Not yet Sakurai, not yet. #T3#
Vladislavovich trying to control but Sakurai is working from the bottom. #SUB#
Sakurai working away from the bottom but not quite defensive enough there because Vladislavovich has passed into half guard!
Sakurai tries to get to full guard but Vladislavovich has control of the leg. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Sakurai defends it well. #SUB#
Sakurai actively working from the bottom here.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.#SUB#
Sakurai actively working from the bottom here.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich 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. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kaverin Vladislavovich dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!
#R2#
Vladislavovich misses with an uppercut. Sakurai saw that one coming.#TD#
Sakurai throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Vladislavovich was covering up waiting for the punch and Sakurai finishes the takedown easily into guard. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Sakurai defends it easily.
Sakurai wants to pass the guard but Vladislavovich is keeping the position.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich has his foot on Sakurai's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Sakurai works his way back into a safe position though.#T1#
Sakurai wants to pass the guard but Vladislavovich is keeping the position.
Sakurai slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.#SUB#
Sakurai goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Vladislavovich has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Sakurai but great work by Vladislavovich.
Sakurai tries to improve position but can't.
Sakurai is working hard here to advance position.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Sakurai is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Sakurai is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Vladislavovich off and has taken his back!#T2#
Vladislavovich looks to control his opponent's hands but he's not mananging it at the moment. #SUB#
Vladislavovich defends a prolonged rear naked choke attempt and turns nicely into his opponent's guard.
Vladislavovich is pushing down on Sakurai's leg trying to pass to half guard. Sakurai is fighting to maintain full guard but Vladislavovich has managed to sneak the leg through.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Sakurai is not content to let Vladislavovich control the position.
Sakurai gets back to full guard. #T3#
Vladislavovich pushes down on Sakurai's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Vladislavovich seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Sakurai does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back. #SUB#
Sakurai looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Vladislavovich has been the more effective fighter overall so far.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich is actively looking for submissions here but good counter grappling here from Sakurai as he works his way to full guard.
Vladislavovich pushes down on Sakurai's leg and manages to get into half guard.#T4#
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.#SUB#
Sakurai looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB#
Sakurai looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB#
Sakurai looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Kaverin Vladislavovich has got the better of the ground game so far.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Kaverin Vladislavovich will probably get the nod - 10:9.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Vladislavovich pushing out the jab but it's not landing.
Sakurai moves away from the strike by Vladislavovich. #TD#
Vladislavovich gets caught napping as Sakurai dives in and scores a takedown. Vladislavovich manages to retain guard.
Sakurai passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Vladislavovich gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich looking for submissions off his back.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Vladislavovich looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Sakurai is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Vladislavovich doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Sakurai. #T1##SUB#
Vladislavovich is defending against the submission attempts here by Sakurai. #SUB#
Sakurai is looking for a kimura here. #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.
Sakurai trying to pass the guard but Vladislavovich defending well. #SUB#
Sakurai is looking for a kimura here.
Vladislavovich is looking to improve his position. #T3#
Vladislavovich regains full guard. Nicely done. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich is active off his back here, looking for submissions. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Sakurai doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Sakurai manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #SUB2#
Vladislavovich has his foot on Sakurai's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Sakurai works his way back into a safe position though.
Hayate Sakurai has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Sakurai postures up in Vladislavovich's guard and throws a big left but Vladislavovich blocks it. #SUB2#
Sakurai has a momentary lapse of concentration, allowing Vladislavovich to throw up a leg and lock on what appears to be a pretty tight triangle! Sakurai is fighting it off but it's all too little too late - Vladislavovich pulls down on the head and he's put Sakurai to sleep! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:58 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Kaverin Vladislavovich!
A less than humble Kaverin Vladislavovich misjudged his post fight interview somewhat and came across a little too arrogant whilst trying to hype up his own abilities.

Event: The Island Season 9, 155 lbs, Round 1
Date: May 04, 2019

#R1##TD#
Yamamoto dives in and scores a takedown into Garnier's guard.
Garnier trying to keep a closed guard but Yamamoto is proving a slippery customer.
Garnier seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now. #SUB#
Yamamoto drops back, looking for a kneebar! Garnier looks panicked! The fighters roll across the mat, one looking to finish, one looking to escape. Garnier looks to have wriggled free... Yes, he's got his leg free and he's dived into side control! Good work there from Garnier! #REVB#
Yamamoto tries to improve position but can't.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Garnier taking a breather here.
Yamamoto sneaks back into half guard.
Garnier looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.#T1#
Yamamoto wants to improve his position but Garnier is controlling well.
Garnier looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding. #SUB#
Yamamoto actively working from the bottom here.#T2#
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.#SUB#
Yamamoto looking for submissions off his back.
Garnier trying to mount his opponent but Yamamoto defends it. #SUB#
Yamamoto looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Garnier wants to free his trapped foot but Yamamoto is holding on for dear life with his legs. #SUB#
Yamamoto looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Garnier really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Yamamoto. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.#T3#
Garnier stalling.
Garnier is trying to control. Yamamoto wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Garnier prevents Yamamoto from improving his position.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Garnier looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Garnier tries to clinch up.
Garnier steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Yamamoto.#T4#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Nice shot by Yamamoto.
Nice body punch from Garnier.
Ronald Garnier seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Yamamoto misses with a body shot.
Garnier tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Garnier misses with a looping right.
Yamamoto half commits to a counter takedown before pushing away, out of range.
Nice uppercut there from Garnier.
Garnier ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
Garnier just misses with a punch to the body.
Yamamoto just misses with a punch to the body.
Garnier throws out a powerful jab.
Yamamoto moves forwards but Garnier connects with a nice, crisp jab.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#TD#
Yamamoto scores with a takedown into Garnier's guard.
Garnier looking to hit a scissor sweep but Yamamoto is one step ahead there.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Ronald Garnier will probably get the nod.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!
#R2#
Yamamoto connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe. #TD#
Yamamoto closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Garnier's guard.
Yamamoto passes easily into side control. Nice work.#SUB#
Yamamoto wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Garnier, who protects the arm well.
You can see the frustration on Garnier's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#T1#
Garnier is looking for a sweep.
Norifumi Yamamoto overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Garnier manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Garnier wants to get back to full guard.#SUB#
Yamamoto is working for a kimura but Garnier is defending it quite comfortably. #SUB#
Yamamoto is looking for a kimura here.
We've been hearing good reports from Yamamoto's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
Garnier is trying to maintain the position but Yamamoto is very close to passing his half guard.#T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Garnier preventing any damage for now, controlling his opponent's head.
Garnier is looking to improve his position. #SUB#
Yamamoto has hold of the far side arm. He's working for the Kimura, can Garnier defend it? Yamamoto steps over the head and cranks it - Garnier is tapping out! That was textbook stuff right there - nice submission victory for Yamamoto!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:48 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Norifumi Yamamoto!
Our winner, Norifumi Yamamoto, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.

Event: The Island Season 9, 185 lbs, Round 1
Date: May 04, 2019

#R1#
Gomi leaves Somerkoski with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Gomi shoots for a takedown but Somerkoski saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.#TD#
Gomi gets caught flat footed, as Somerkoski shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Somerkoski trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #SUB2#
Gomi working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Somerkoski doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Somerkoski manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #SUB#
Somerkoski drops back for a leg but he's not going to get it - he lets go and Gomi dives on top into guard.#REVB#
Gomi looking to pass the guard.
My spies in Temp Spar Gym inform me that Gomi has been getting involved in the gym's BJJ sparring sessions. Let's see whether that pays dividends!#SUB#
Somerkoski is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Gomi defends well.
We've been hearing good reports from Somerkoski's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Somerkoski is trying to control the position here. Gomi has hold of a guillotine from the top though... oh, that looks naaaaasty, will Somerkoski tap? Yes he will! The fight is all over! Gomi jumps to his feet and is applauded loudly by the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Takanori Gomi!
Takanori Gomi thanked the fans post fight for their support.

Event: The Island Season 9, 205 lbs, Round 1
Date: May 04, 2019

#R1#
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Sin! #CUT#
It looks like Kazushi Sakuraba has been cut.
Sakuraba throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Sin looks to land a left hand but Sakuraba moved out of range nicely.
Sakuraba drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Sin defends it well.
Sakuraba misses with a body shot.
Sin uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Sakuraba.
Sakuraba looks to throw the jab but Sin is out of range.
Sin moves out of range of the strikes.
Sin appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Sin misses with a straight right.
Sin connects with a crisp jab.
Sakuraba's coach down at Temp Spar Gym was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Sakuraba's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sakuraba throws a big shot that misses.
Sin definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Sin swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Sin misses with a looping right.#T1#
Sakuraba stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
Sakuraba slips a straight right by Sin.
A swing and a miss from Sakuraba.
Sakuraba moves away from the strike by Sin.
Sakuraba slips under a jab from Sin.#TD2#
Sakuraba fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Sin sprawls well initially but Sakuraba persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Sin is looking for a sweep. Sakuraba is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.#SUB2#
Sakuraba maintaining the dominant position here and is working for a kimura. He's locked it up! Sin could be in real trouble here! He's trying to wriggle out but Sakuraba has cracked it and Sin is screaming in pain - he's tapped out! Great finish by Sakuraba!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Kazushi Sakuraba!
Our winner, Kazushi Sakuraba, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.

Event: SPARTA 48: THE ISLAND FINALE
Date: Apr 30, 2019

#R1#
A big right from Sakurai misses.
Sakurai has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
Sakurai throws a body shot but no joy.
Sakurai misses with a wild body shot.
Sakurai tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Arteezy was well out of range. Poor timing from Sakurai.
Arteezy takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Nice straight punches there by Sakurai. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Sakurai.
Arteezy throws a big shot that misses.
Sakurai has a takedown stuffed.
Arteezy misses with an uppercut.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A looping hook to the body misses from Arteezy. Sakurai does a little dance to reset his feet.
Sakurai fakes and then throws a beautiful body shot. Arteezy looks a bit winded and takes a step backwards to take a breath.
Arteezy shoots in for a takedown but Sakurai shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Sakurai swings for the body but Arteezy moves out of range.
Sakurai throws a jab when Arteezy was well out of range.
Sakurai is looking to wear down Arteezy with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.#T1##TD#
Sakurai shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Arteezy napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Arteezy tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Sakurai wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control. #SUB#
Sakurai is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Arteezy is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
You can see the frustration on Arteezy's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.#SUB#
Sakurai tries for a kimura but Arteezy is defending well.
Arteezy struggling a bit here.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Arteezy is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Arteezy can't do much from the bottom here. #SUB#
Sakurai is trying to get an arm triangle but Arteezy is defending well. #T2#
Both fighters take a look at the clock.
Arteezy is looking for a sweep.
Arteezy gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Sakurai wants to pass to mount but Arteezy is defending the position. #SUB#
Arteezy is defending against the submission attempts here by Sakurai. #SUB2#
Arteezy is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Sakurai pulls his head out easily. #SUB#
Sakurai is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Arteezy doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Sakurai. #T3#
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Arteezy trying to control but Sakurai postures up.
Sakurai is looking to advance position but Arteezy won't allow it. #SUB#
Sakurai seems to be working for a kimura but Arteezy defends the submission attempt.
Arteezy is looking to improve his position. #SUB2#
Arteezy looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Arteezy trying to control from the bottom. #T4#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.#SUB#
Sakurai is working for a kimura but Arteezy is defending it quite comfortably. #SUB#
Sakurai is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #SUB#
Sakurai is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Arteezy is just riding it out for now. Sakurai eventually gives up the hold. #SUB2#
Arteezy is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Sakurai pulls his head out easily.
Arteezy tries to get to full guard but Sakurai has control of the leg.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Arteezy has hold of Sakurai's hands but Sakurai slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.#SUB2#
Arteezy actively working from the bottom here.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Hayate Sakurai dominated that round.
That's time! Sakurai's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.
#R2#
Arteezy swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.#TD#
Sakurai changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Arteezy looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Arteezy tries to improve position but can't.
Hayate Sakurai overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#SUB#
Sakurai tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Sakurai has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #SUB#
Sakurai tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though. #SUB#
Sakurai is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Arteezy knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Arteezy tries to improve position but can't.
Arteezy is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Sakurai off and has taken his back!#T1##SUB2#
Arteezy tightening his grip on Sakurai, looking for the choke.
Sakurai is defending well here and trying to improve his position.
Sakurai is working hard here to advance position.#SUB2#
Arteezy is working hard for the rear naked choke here.
Arteezy controlling the position well here. Sakurai rolled but Arteezy kept the hooks locked in and stayed in the dominant position.
Sakurai tries to escape but Arteezy has the hooks in and won't let him break free. #SUB2#
Sakurai defending nicely against the rear naked choke attempt.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Arteezy is looking for a rear naked choke here but Sakurai reverses the position brilliantly into Arteezy's guard! #T2#
Arteezy is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Sakurai passes into half guard.
Arteezy wants to get back to full guard.
Arteezy wants to control but Sakurai is keeping busy. #SUB#
Sakurai is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Arteezy sees it coming and defends easily.#SUB#
Sakurai is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Arteezy is looking to improve his position. #T3##SUB#
Sakurai is working for a submission of some sort.
Arteezy wants to get back to full guard.
Arteezy trying to keep hold of his opponent's head but Sakurai manages to pass to mount!
Arteezy wants to control but Sakurai is having none of it.
Arteezy is in all sorts of trouble here. #SUB#
Sakurai looks like he's working for a submission but he's not found anything just yet.#SUB#
Sakurai working for a guillotine from mount but Arteezy is in no mood to give up.
Arteezy is desperately trying to improve his position but Sakurai has a good base and remains in mount.#T4##SUB#
Sakurai is working for a guillotine from mount but Arteezy frees his head quite easily.
Arteezy tries to lock up and control but Sakurai gives him a forearm to the face and pushes him away.
Arteezy tries to get back to half guard but can't. #SUB#
Sakurai looking for an armbar but decides to keep the dominant position instead.
Sakurai is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Arteezy can do to turn this around?
Arteezy bucks up and manages to get a nice reversal! He's in guard on the top - nicely done!
Arteezy controlling from the top position.
Arteezy has been taking part in the yoga sessions down at Yaw-Yan Ardigma. Presumably he's going to look for a slick submission... Or maybe he's looking to avoid one.#SUB#
Sakurai looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Hayate Sakurai will probably get the nod.
That's time! Back to the action! Let's get this one finished - here comes the final round!
#R3#
Arteezy staying out of range there.
Arteezy looks for a takedown but Sakurai sprawls well.
Arteezy throws a hook to the side of Sakurai's head but Sakurai sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Sakurai jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent. #TD2#
Sakurai gets caught napping as Arteezy dives in and scores a takedown. Sakurai manages to retain guard.
Sakurai tries to strike from the bottom. #SUB#
Arteezy avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Sakurai keeping moving, preventing Arteezy from controlling successfully.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Arteezy sitting in guard, not really doing much. #T1#
Arteezy wants to control from the top but Sakurai keeps moving.
Arteezy wants to pass the guard but Sakurai is keeping the position.
Arteezy seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up. #SUB#
Sakurai has his foot on Arteezy's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Arteezy works his way back into a safe position though.
Arteezy controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Arteezy tries to free his leg and advance position but Sakurai is retaining full guard.
Arteezy trying to control the position from guard on top but Sakurai is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can. #SUB#
Sakurai is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Arteezy is aware though and is defending well.#T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.#SUB#
Sakurai has his foot on Arteezy's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Arteezy works his way back into a safe position though.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Arteezy trying to control the position from guard on top but Sakurai is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Sakurai looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Arteezy looking to sit in guard and control but Sakurai gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR##SUB2#
Sakurai avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Sakurai looking to pass the guard.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Arteezy is on top in guard. #REVB#
Arteezy slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard. #T3##SUB#
Sakurai is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Arteezy defends well.
Arteezy looking to sit in guard and control but Sakurai gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top. #REVR#
Arteezy pulls Sakurai in close to prevent any damage. #SUB2#
Arteezy working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Sakurai doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Sakurai manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Shawn Arteezy has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!#SUB2#
Arteezy is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle. #SUB2#
Arteezy looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar. #T4#
Sakurai sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Arteezy's guard.
Arteezy is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #SUB2#
Arteezy looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB#
Sakurai is looking for a kimura here.
Hayate Sakurai is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Arteezy trying to control from the bottom.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB#
Sakurai is looking for a kimura but Arteezy is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Sakurai to get the leverage.
Arteezy wants to control but Sakurai is keeping busy.

And that's the end of the fight!
I would just about give that final round to Shawn Arteezy.
Well Sakurai 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 Santiago Holmes scores the fight 29:28
Judge Daniel Franklin scores the fight 29:28
Judge Sandra Marshall scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Hayate Sakurai!
Our winner, Hayate Sakurai, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.

Event: SPARTA 48: THE ISLAND FINALE
Date: Apr 30, 2019

#R1#
Gracie just misses with a punch to the body.
Gracie keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Gracie feints the counter takedown.
Gracie takes a swing at Yamamoto's ribcage but misses.
A looping hook to the body misses from Gracie. Yamamoto does a little dance to reset his feet.
Yamamoto shoots for a double leg takedown but Gracie sprawls well. He's pushed Yamamoto's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Yamamoto ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Yamamoto drops down looking for a counter takedown but Gracie sprawls and moves away.
Gracie has been spending a lot of time sparring his boxing in the run up to the fight, trying to sharpen up those hands and look for a knockout.#TD#
Yamamoto feints and as Gracie raises his hands in defense, Yamamoto changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.#SUB2#
Gracie is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Yamamoto is aware though and is defending well.#SUB2#
Gracie is looking for a triangle but Yamamoto pushes his legs off easily.
Gracie keeping full guard, as Yamamoto tries to pass.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Gracie looking for a guillotine here but Yamamoto defends easily. #SUB2#
Gracie has managed to work for a loose triangle. I think Yamamoto should be able to defend this one pretty easily though. Oh, Gracie has tightened it up now! Yamamoto 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 1:18 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Royler Gracie!
A very excited looking Royler Gracie 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: SPARTA 46
Date: Apr 26, 2019

#R1#
Gomi swings and misses with a hook to the body.
We've been informed that Gomi has been sparring a lot of Muay Thai in the buildup to this fight so let's see if that has an impact on the result.
Gomi avoids a lazy jab quite easily.#TD#
Garcia closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Gomi is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Garcia's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Gomi won't allow Garcia to pass to mount. #SUB2#
Gomi looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Garcia seems to be working for a kimura but Gomi defends the submission attempt.#SUB2#
Gomi looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Garcia is keen to just control but Gomi is a slippery customer.#SUB#
Garcia is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.
Garcia is looking to take a break and control but Gomi is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom. #T1#
Gomi tries to get to full guard but Garcia has control of the leg.
Garcia trying to mount his opponent but Gomi defends it. #SUB#
Gomi is defending against the submission attempts here by Garcia.
Garcia controlling the action here.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB2#
Gomi looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB#
Garcia is looking for a kimura but Gomi is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Garcia to get the leverage. #T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Gomi is looking to improve his position. #SUB#
Garcia is trying to work for a kimura but Gomi is defending well.
We've been hearing good reports from Garcia's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.#SUB#
Garcia is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
Gomi is staying active underneath Garcia, who seems content to just control the action from this position. #SUB2#
Gomi actively working from the bottom here.#SUB#
Garcia is working for a kimura but Gomi is defending it quite comfortably.
Well, if Garcia is going to just lie there, perhaps we should talk about what we're having for dinner tonight… I'm having a ham and pineapple pizza… Yum. Can't wait. #T3##SUB#
Garcia is trying for a kimura here. Gomi looks like he's in a lot of pain... and he's tapping out! Garcia wins by kimura!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:19 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Rafael Garcia!
Rafael Garcia seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

Event: SPARTA 45
Date: Apr 24, 2019

#R1#
Sakuraba ducks under a wild hook from Kiele.
A slow jab from Kiele misses its intended target.
Sakuraba misses with a hook. Kiele ducked under it nicely.
Jab from Sakuraba.
Kiele lands an overhand right.
Sakuraba throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect. #TD#
Sakuraba fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Kiele to the ground. Sakuraba is now in Kiele's guard.#SUB2#
Kiele working for a triangle but Sakuraba defends it easily.
Sakuraba pushing down on Kiele's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Kiele is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though. #SUB2#
Kiele looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#T1#
Sakuraba wants to pass to mount but Kiele is defending the position. #SUB2#
Kiele looking for submissions off his back.#SUB#
Sakuraba is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Kiele defends it well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Sakuraba is trying to work for a kimura but Kiele is defending well.
Sakuraba prevents Kiele from improving his position.#T2#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.#SUB2#
Kiele looking for a kimura from the bottom but Sakuraba passes into side control!#SUB#
Sakuraba thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Kiele manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Kiele wants to get back to full guard.
Kiele is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Sakuraba's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Sakuraba's back!
Sakuraba is really stuck here. #SUB2#
Sakuraba is displaying good submission defense - not really looking in danger of submitting to the rear naked choke at the moment. That could change in an instant of course if Kiele gets his way!
My spies in Temp Spar Gym inform me that Kiele has been getting involved in the gym's BJJ sparring sessions. Let's see whether that pays dividends!#T3##SUB2#
Kiele is cranking Sakuraba's head sideways - that looks painful. He's managed to get his other arm under the chin and this looks bad for Sakuraba! He's tightened the choke and Sakuraba is tapping out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:21 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Kahuna Kiele!
After winning the bout, Kahuna Kiele thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

Event: SPARTA 45
Date: Apr 24, 2019

#R1#
Aoki shoots in looking for a takedown but Gracie manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Aoki's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Aoki throws a lazy right hand but Gracie sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.#TD2#
Aoki darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.#SUB2#
Gracie is defending against the submission attempts here by Aoki. #SUB2#
Aoki is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Gracie is just riding it out for now. Aoki eventually gives up the hold.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Aoki is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Gracie defends it well. #T1##SUB2#
Aoki wants to work for an arm triangle but Gracie is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Gracie slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.#SUB#
Aoki has a momentary lapse of concentration, allowing Gracie to throw up a leg and lock on what appears to be a pretty tight triangle! Aoki is fighting it off but it's all too little too late - Gracie pulls down on the head and he's put Aoki to sleep! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:54 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Rickson Gracie!
An out of breath Rickson Gracie thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

Event: SPARTA 44
Date: Apr 21, 2019

#R1#
Sakurai ducks under a wild hook from Borta.
Sakurai has been talking about how he's improved his wrestling in the run up to the fight so let's see if that's enough to sway the balance.
Sakurai moves out of range as Borta strikes.
Sakurai tries to counter with a takedown but Borta is quick to defend against it.
A jab from Borta misses.
Borta listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Sakurai misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Borta. #CL2#
Borta rushes Sakurai and presses him up against the cage.
Sakurai tries to pull guard but Borta holds him up against the cage and eventually Sakurai drops back down to his feet.
Sakurai is trying to slow down the pace in the clinch, to catch his breath.
Borta creates a bit of space for himself and sneaks an elbow through Sakurai's defenses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A short left from Borta.
Sakurai tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Borta smiles and moves away.
Sakurai connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.#T1#
Borta throws a good cross that connects.
A shot to the body from Sakurai misses
and Borta counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Sakurai connects with a looping right hand.
Sakurai closes this distance looking for a takedown but Borta circles away.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Hayate Sakurai. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Sakurai swings for the body but Borta moves out of range.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Sakurai.
Borta looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Borta uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Sakurai.
Borta swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Sakurai swings and misses with a shot to the body
and Sakurai takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles. #CL2#
Borta fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Sakurai, pushing him back against the cage.
Borta misses with a hook to the ribs. #TD#
Sakurai manages to pull guard. #SUB#
Sakurai pushes a forearm under Borta's chin to create some space. He's escaped his hips and pivoted quickly for an armbar! Can he extend the arm? Yes, Borta is tapping out! Damn, that was fast!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Hayate Sakurai!
A very excited looking Hayate Sakurai 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: SPARTA 43
Date: Apr 19, 2019

#R1#
Stepanovich avoids the body shot from Yamamoto.
Yamamoto swings widly with a right hand #TD2#
and Stepanovich counters with a takedown into side control.
Yamamoto has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Yamamoto is trying to get back to half guard.
Stepanovich wants to lay and pray for a moment but Yamamoto keeps working.
Yamamoto is looking to reverse the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB2#
Stepanovich thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Yamamoto tries to bench press Stepanovich off him but Stepanovich keeps the position. #T1#
Yamamoto is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Stepanovich's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.#SUB2#
Yamamoto is defending against the submission attempts here by Stepanovich.
Stepanovich has been taking part in the yoga sessions down at Temp Spar Gym. Presumably he's going to look for a slick submission... Or maybe he's looking to avoid one.#SUB2#
Stepanovich is trying to work for a kimura but Yamamoto is defending well. #SUB2#
Stepanovich is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #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.
Yamamoto tries to get to full guard but Stepanovich has control of the leg. #SUB#
Yamamoto looking for submissions from an awkward position here.#SUB#
Yamamoto is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Stepanovich pulls his head out easily.
Stepanovich is trying to control. Yamamoto wants to improve his position but can't escape this time. #SUB2#
Stepanovich is looking for a kimura here.
Yamamoto is refusing to be controlled, as Stepanovich sits in half guard. #T3##SUB2#
Stepanovich is working for submissions here but there's nothing on. #SUB2#
Stepanovich 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. #SUB2#
Stepanovich wants to work for an arm triangle but Yamamoto is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt. #T4#
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Yamamoto is refusing to be controlled, as Stepanovich sits in half guard. #REF3#
The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Yamamoto misses with a wild body shot.
Yamamoto misses the shot to the body.
Stepanovich tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Stepanovich shoots in and drives through. Yamamoto sprawls well.
Stepanovich tries for a takedown but Yamamoto sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Stepanovich looks to land a left hand but Yamamoto moved out of range nicely.
Stepanovich jabbing away but nothing is landing. #TD#
Yamamoto scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!#SUB2#
Stepanovich looking for a kimura from the bottom but Yamamoto passes into side control!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Stepanovich wants to control but Yamamoto postures up.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Nevzorov Stepanovich will probably get the nod.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.
#R2#
Stepanovich doesn't succeed with the takedown#TD#
and Yamamoto counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground. #SUB#
Yamamoto drops back, looking for a kneebar! Stepanovich looks panicked! The fighters roll across the mat, one looking to finish, one looking to escape. Stepanovich looks to have wriggled free... Yes, he's got his leg free and he's dived into side control! Good work there from Stepanovich! #REVB#
Stepanovich has knee on belly and now moves to full mount! Trouble for Yamamoto!
Yamamoto really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Yamamoto is working hard here to advance position.
Stepanovich can't quite control the action as he would like just now, as Yamamoto is looking to escape. #T1##SUB2#
Stepanovich is working on an americana here. Ooh, that looks pretty nasty! Nope, Yamamoto has managed to escape the submission attempt. #SUB2#
Stepanovich goes for an armbar but he's fallen flat on his backside there and now Yamamoto is on top in guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Yamamoto passes easily into side control. Nice work.
Stepanovich is trying to improve his position.#T2##SUB#
Yamamoto wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Stepanovich, who protects the arm well. #SUB#
Yamamoto goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Stepanovich has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Yamamoto but great work by Stepanovich.
Yamamoto is looking to reverse the position.#SUB2#
Stepanovich tries for a kimura but Yamamoto is defending well.
Yamamoto is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.
Yamamoto works his way to full guard. Good work.#T3##SUB#
Yamamoto has his foot on Stepanovich's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Stepanovich works his way back into a safe position though.#SUB#
Stepanovich got a little sloppy there for a moment and Yamamoto has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Stepanovich has managed to get both his arms back between Yamamoto's legs - danger averted.
Yamamoto keeping moving, preventing Stepanovich from controlling successfully. #SUB#
Yamamoto has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Stepanovich can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #SUB#
Stepanovich got a little sloppy there for a moment and Yamamoto has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Stepanovich has managed to get both his arms back between Yamamoto's legs - danger averted.#T4#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Stepanovich stands and throws Yamamoto's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Yamamoto is trying to improve his position.
Stepanovich trying to control the position but Yamamoto is working away.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.#SUB2#
Stepanovich tries for a kimura but Yamamoto is defending well.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Norifumi Yamamoto will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!
#R3#
Stepanovich throws a jab but it's blocked by Yamamoto.
A telegraphed right hand from Stepanovich misses the target.
Yamamoto looks to score with a jab to the body but Stepanovich is just out of range.
Stepanovich waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Yamamoto.
Yamamoto feinted with a counter takedown.
Stepanovich blocks a jab.#TD#
Yamamoto scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Stepanovich tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Yamamoto wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.#SUB#
Yamamoto tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Norifumi Yamamoto overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.#SUB#
Yamamoto tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Yamamoto has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #T1##SUB#
Yamamoto is trying to get an arm triangle but Stepanovich is defending well.
Stepanovich is looking for a sweep.
Stepanovich is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.#T2#
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Stepanovich wants to control but Yamamoto postures up.#SUB#
Yamamoto looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything. #SUB#
Yamamoto wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Stepanovich, who protects the arm well.
Stepanovich can't do much from the bottom here. #T3#
Stepanovich tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Stepanovich is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Yamamoto's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Stepanovich is pressing down on Yamamoto's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.#SUB#
Yamamoto 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.
Yamamoto trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet. #REF3#
The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.#T4#
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Yamamoto misses with a looping left.
A big right from Yamamoto misses.
Stepanovich throws a big shot that misses.
Yamamoto uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Stepanovich.#TD#
Yamamoto gets a double leg takedown into Stepanovich's guard.
Stepanovich tries to land a sweep but no joy. #SUB#
Yamamoto drops back looking for a heel hook - he quickly realises he's not going to get it but Stepanovich manages to dive on top of him before he can escape and now Yamamoto has Stepanovich in his guard.#REVB##SUB2#
Stepanovich drops back looking for a heel hook - he quickly realises he's not going to get it but Yamamoto manages to dive on top of him before he can escape and now Stepanovich has Yamamoto in his guard.#REVR#

And that's the end of the fight!
Norifumi Yamamoto showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Yamamoto 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 Michael Johnstone scores the fight 29:28
Judge Dirk Anderson scores the fight 28:29
Judge David Hoff scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by split decision... Norifumi Yamamoto!
Our winner, Norifumi Yamamoto, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.

Event: SPARTA 41
Date: Apr 14, 2019

#R1#
Gomi uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Gracie.
Gomi misses with a looping left.
Horrible takedown attempt by Gracie or perhaps it was just good defense by Gomi, which made it look bad.
Gomi ducks under a wild hook from Gracie.
Gomi misses with a body shot.
Gomi misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Gracie tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Gomi defends well and Gracie ends up having to push Gomi into the cage where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Gomi defending well as Gracie loads up on a big left hand.
Gomi keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Gracie misses with a body shot.
Gracie thows a left - swing and a miss! #TD2#
Gomi fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Gracie to the ground. Gomi is now in Gracie's guard.#SUB#
Gracie looking for a guillotine here but Gomi defends easily. #SUB#
Gomi avoids a guillotine attempt easily. #T1##SUB#
Gomi avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Gracie can't keep his opponent in guard - Gomi advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount. #SUB2#
Gomi is looking for a kimura but Gracie is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Gomi to get the leverage. #T2#
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.#SUB2#
Gomi is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Gracie doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Gomi.
Gracie tries to get to full guard but Gomi has control of the leg. #SUB2#
Gomi is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
Gracie slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Gomi stopping the sweep attempt from Gracie.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#T3#
Gomi looking to pass the guard. #SUB2#
Gomi drops back looking for a heel hook - he quickly realises he's not going to get it but Gracie manages to dive on top of him before he can escape and now Gomi has Gracie in his guard.#REVR#
Gracie pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Gomi is keeping the position for now.
Gracie is working hard here to advance position.
Gomi has been taking part in the yoga sessions down at Temp Spar Gym. Presumably he's going to look for a slick submission... Or maybe he's looking to avoid one.#SUB2#
Gomi had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Gracie defends it easily.#T4#
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Gracie sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Gomi's guard. #SUB#
Gracie is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Gomi sees it coming and defends easily.#SUB#
Gracie is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Gomi sees it coming and defends easily.#SUB#
Gracie is looking for a kimura here.
We've been hearing good reports from Gracie's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Gracie passes to full mount!
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Rorion Gracie dominated that round.
That's time! Gracie's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.
#R2#
Gracie tries to score a power double leg takedown but Gomi sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Gracie somewhat.
Gracie is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Gomi can do to turn this around?#TD#
Gracie drives through with a takedown into Gomi's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
Gracie sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Gomi's guard. #SUB2#
Gomi looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.#SUB2#
Gomi is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Gracie pulls his head out easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Gracie is looking to advance position but Gomi won't allow it. #T1#
Gomi works his way to full guard. Good work.#SUB2#
Gomi looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar. #SUB#
Gracie drops back looking for a heel hook - he quickly realises he's not going to get it but Gomi manages to dive on top of him before he can escape and now Gracie has Gomi in his guard.#REVB##SUB#
Gracie has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Gomi can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #SUB#
Gracie has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Gomi can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself. #T2#
Gomi tries to free his leg and advance position but Gracie is retaining full guard. #SUB#
Gracie throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Gracie keeping full guard, as Gomi tries to pass. #SUB#
Gracie looking to try and escape his hips here, looking for a submission. It looks like he's going for a triangle but Gomi is defending well. Gracie quickly switches to an armbar and extends the arm! Gomi has no choice but to tap, to a very quick submission! Wow, that was lightning fast! Gracie celebrates on the cage, with the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:55 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Rorion Gracie!
Rorion Gracie decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: SPARTA 39
Date: Apr 10, 2019

#R1##TD2#
Sakurai shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Peltonen trying to control here. #SUB2#
Sakurai is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there. #SUB#
Peltonen actively working from the bottom here.
Peltonen tries to roll over but Sakurai keeps him under control.
Sakurai tries to pass the half guard into mount. Peltonen knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Peltonen manages to get to full guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sakurai pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Peltonen is keeping the position for now. #SUB#
Peltonen working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Sakurai doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Sakurai manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem. #T1##SUB#
Peltonen isolates an arm and boxes in a triangle. Sakurai stacks Peltonen on his neck as he steps over and passes to the side. He's now in a much more dominant position where he can look to do some serious damage. Nice move by Sakurai!
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.#SUB2#
Sakurai wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Peltonen, who protects the arm well.
Peltonen tries to get back to half guard but can't.#SUB2#
Sakurai wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Peltonen, who protects the arm well. #SUB2#
Sakurai has worked his way into a potential kimura here. Peltonen is trying to get out of the position but his squirming has just got him deeper into trouble. Sakurai yanks on the arm and Peltonen is forced to tap due to a very painful looking submission! Nice work by Sakurai.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Hayate Sakurai!
Hayate Sakurai thanked the fans post fight for their support.

Event: SPARTA 39
Date: Apr 10, 2019

#R1#
Sakuraba doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Sor Ploenchit jabs at Sakuraba's body.
Sakuraba shoots in but no luck this time.
Sor Ploenchit is looking to counter punch.
Sor Ploenchit swinging wildly here.
Sor Ploenchit definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.#CL#
Sor Ploenchit moves into the clinch.
Sor Ploenchit scores with a shoulder strike.
Sakuraba is trying to pull guard but Sor Ploenchit has him pressed against the cage.
Sor Ploenchit lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
Sor Ploenchit scores with a shot to the side of Sakuraba's head. #CUT#
It looks like Kazushi Sakuraba has been cut.
Sor Ploenchit is working Sakuraba over against the cage.
Sor Ploenchit pushes Sakuraba back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
Sakuraba looks winded!
Sor Ploenchit is working Sakuraba over against the cage.
Sakuraba fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Kaensak Sor Ploenchit has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Kazushi Sakuraba.#T1#
Sor Ploenchit lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
Stalling in the clinch from Sakuraba.
Sor Ploenchit scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Sor Ploenchit lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Sor Ploenchit lands a hook to the side of the head.
Sakuraba doesn't land with the attempted body shot.
Sakuraba tries to throw a body punch but Sor Ploenchit avoids it by throwing Sakuraba back against the cage.
Sor Ploenchit works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Sor Ploenchit softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.
Sor Ploenchit scores with a shoulder strike.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Sor Ploenchit creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Sor Ploenchit lands with a good tight uppercut to the head.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Sakuraba jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Sor Ploenchit walks away with a smile on his face. Sakuraba gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
Sakuraba's coach down at Temp Spar Gym was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Sakuraba's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.#CL#
The fight moves into the clinch position.#T2#
Sor Ploenchit working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Sor Ploenchit works for underhooks and lands a body shot in the process.
Sor Ploenchit stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.
Sakuraba takes a shot to the head.
A battle for position here, against the cage.
Sor Ploenchit lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.
A short body shot lands from Sor Ploenchit as the two fighters clinch.
Sakuraba is trying to break the clinch but Sor Ploenchit is controlling him.
Sor Ploenchit lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Sakuraba trying to control the position but instead, Sor Ploenchit has worked for underhooks and has pushed Sakuraba into the cage.
A nice left hand lands by Sor Ploenchit. #T3#
A right hook to the body lands for Sor Ploenchit.
Sor Ploenchit lands with a light punch inside.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Sor Ploenchit.
Sakuraba struggles to land a body shot inside as Sor Ploenchit controls his hands.
Sor Ploenchit lands a hook that snaps the head of Sakuraba backwards.
Sor Ploenchit lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Sor Ploenchit digs a right hand into Sakuraba's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Sakuraba's gas tank.
Sor Ploenchit scores with an uppercut up the middle.
A short uppercut from Sor Ploenchit.
Sakuraba takes a shot to the head. #ROC#
Sakuraba is rocked!
Sor Ploenchit throws a hook to the body. More of an arm punch but it's all scoring with the judges.
Sor Ploenchit pushes Sakuraba back against the cage and unloads with a body punch.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Sor Ploenchit misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Sor Ploenchit stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.#T4#
A short right hand to the side of the head by Sor Ploenchit.
Sor Ploenchit lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Sor Ploenchit lands a nice looking hook to the body, against the cage.
A short uppercut from Sor Ploenchit.
Sor Ploenchit misses with a hook to the ribs.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Sor Ploenchit.
Sor Ploenchit lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
Sakuraba is still on wobbly legs! Can Sor Ploenchit finish him?
Sor Ploenchit makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Sakuraba can't find room to land a body shot as Sor Ploenchit controls the action.
A quick uppercut on the inside from Sor Ploenchit.
Sor Ploenchit lands a body punch.
Sor Ploenchit lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Sakuraba tries to pull guard but Sor Ploenchit forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Sor Ploenchit unloads with a big right hand that wobbles Sakuraba! He's leaning against the cage trying to keep his feet but Sor Ploenchit is unloading with more strikes now! Sakuraba drops to his knees and the referee stops the fight for a TKO!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Kaensak Sor Ploenchit!
Kaensak Sor Ploenchit bigged himself up after the win. The crowd seemed to love it.

Event: SPARTA 38
Date: Apr 07, 2019

#R1#
Kimura takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Yamamoto misses with a body shot.
Yamamoto fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Kimura manages to avoid it.
Yamamoto misses with a hook #TD2#
and Kimura counters with a nice double leg into side control. Yamamoto won't be happy with that. #SUB2#
Kimura looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Yamamoto has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Kimura controls the position from side control.#SUB2#
Kimura is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Yamamoto has escaped the position, nice work there.
Yamamoto tries to get back to half guard but can't.#SUB2#
Kimura tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Kimura has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought! #SUB2#
Kimura looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything. #T1#
Yamamoto is letting Kimura control him for a moment. #SUB2#
Kimura has worked his way into a potential kimura here. Yamamoto is trying to get out of the position but his squirming has just got him deeper into trouble. Kimura yanks on the arm and Yamamoto is forced to tap due to a very painful looking submission! Nice work by Kimura.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:30 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Kenshi Kimura!
An out of breath Kenshi Kimura thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

Event: SPARTA 38
Date: Apr 07, 2019

#R1##TD#
Aoki 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.#ES2#
Sparks has scooted to the edge of the canvas and used the cage to get back to his feet. Aoki has stuck on his opponent and is forcing him back against the cage.#BC#
Aoki breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Sparks closes this distance looking for a takedown but Aoki circles away.
Aoki tries to counter with a takedown but Sparks is quick to defend against it.
Sparks misses with a series of wild punches.
A jab from Aoki misses.
Sparks shoots in but no luck this time.
Frankie Sparks seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Aoki circles away from the clinch attempt.
Aoki definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.#TD#
Aoki closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Aoki lands in his opponent's guard.
Sparks is looking to stand back up but Aoki counters by passing into half guard. Oops... bit sloppy there by Sparks.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.#REVB#
Sparks really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Aoki. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.#SUB#
Aoki seems to be working for a kimura but Sparks defends the submission attempt.#T1#
Sparks is controlling Aoki's trapped leg to prevent Aoki from advancing to side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Aoki is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Sparks has managed to free his arm - good work. #SUB#
Aoki is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Sparks has managed to free his arm - good work. #SUB#
Aoki is working for a kimura but Sparks is defending it quite comfortably. #T2#
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Sparks is trying to maintain the position but Aoki is very close to passing his half guard.#SUB#
Aoki is trying for a kimura here. Sparks looks like he's in a lot of pain... and he's tapping out! Aoki wins by kimura!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:47 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Shinya Aoki!
A victorious Shinya Aoki thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.
Frankie Sparks was interviewed post fight and said 'sorry better try harder I guess'.

Event: SPARTA 34
Date: Mar 29, 2019

#R1#
Garcia walks into a left hand.
Gomi slips a jab from Garcia.
Garcia throws an overhand right that lands on Gomi's shoulder, as Gomi tries to avoid the shot.
Garcia lands with a hook. Gomi tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head. #TD#
Garcia drives through with a takedown into Gomi's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
Gomi has been taking part in the yoga sessions down at Temp Spar Gym. Presumably he's going to look for a slick submission... Or maybe he's looking to avoid one.
Garcia trying to control but Gomi is working from the bottom.
Garcia is stalling in the full guard.
Garcia has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Garcia wants to pass the guard but Gomi is keeping the position.#SUB2#
Gomi is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Garcia trying to control but Gomi is working from the bottom. #SUB2#
Gomi is working for submissions here. He's thrown up his legs looking for a triangle but Garcia frees his head nicely. Oh but Gomi has switched to an armbar! Garcia is tapping furiously! Lovely submission there!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Armbar). Takanori Gomi!
Takanori Gomi decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

Event: SPARTA 33
Date: Mar 27, 2019

#R1#
Sakuraba dodges the punch combination from Alexandersson.
Sakuraba appears to be looking for a counter takedown.
Alexandersson bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Sakuraba throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Alexandersson uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Sakuraba.
Alexandersson misses with a left hand #TD#
and Sakuraba counters with a single leg into guard. Alexandersson didn't expect that.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.#SUB#
Sakuraba drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Sakuraba jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Sakuraba works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Alexandersson tries to kick Sakuraba off but Sakuraba keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sakuraba works his way into side control. #SUB#
Sakuraba is in a dominant position here, looking for a kimura. Alexandersson looks calm but he's in trouble here. Sakuraba gets his leg over his opponent's head and yanks on the arm. Alexandersson is tapping like a morse code operator on the titanic! SOS! SOS! Sakuraba lets go of the hold and Alexandersson can pop his arm back in it's socket.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Kazushi Sakuraba!
A victorious Kazushi Sakuraba thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.
The defeated Gustaf Alexandersson had this to say: 'Good fight, man!'.

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