Combat 13: Cascade PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Andrew Hughes (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Drake Vendo (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Andrew Hughes is staring across the ring at his opponent, tweaking his nipples... Tweaking his own nipples that is.

Hughes
vs
Vendo

192 cm
20
195 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

191 cm
20
200 lbs
2 - 3 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid Muay Thai
Very strong

BJJ Purple Belt
Basic striking
Determined

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Andrew Hughes!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Drake Vendo!
The judges for this bout are Seu Braga, Emerson Jorge and Paulo Santos.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Hughes throws a nice outside leg kick.

Hughes rushes Vendo and pushes him back against the ropes in a clinch.
Vendo working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Knees in the clinch landing for Hughes.
Hughes tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Vendo avoids it.
Hughes using the Thai plumb to throw knees but Vendo has his back arched nicely, preventing the strike.
Vendo working hard to break the clinch.
Vendo has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Hughes is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
Hughes using the Thai plumb to throw knees but Vendo has his back arched nicely, preventing the strike.
Vendo takes a knee to the side of the body.
Vendo looks gassed!
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Hughes unloads a knee to the mid-section.
Hughes landing some nice looking knees to the body.
Hughes with the Thai clinch, lands a knee to the head.

It looks like Drake Vendo has been cut.
Hughes misses with a knee strike.
Vendo avoiding damage as Hughes throws knees to the body.
Vendo is looking for a takedown up against the ropes. Hughes gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Vendo takes a knee right on the jaw!
Hughes lands a knee to the body.
Hughes lands a knee to the head.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hughes lands a knee to the body.
Kneeeeees! The crowd are calling for knees to the body. Hughes obliges.
Hughes utilising his Muay Thai to score with a knee to the body.
A real battle for position is taking place between these two warriors.
Hughes with a knee to the head.
Vendo tries to break free but Hughes pushes him back against the ropes.
Hughes using the Thai clinch to land knees to the body.
Kneeeeees! The crowd are calling for knees to the body. Hughes obliges.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Hughes working Vendo over with knees to the body.
A knee to the head by Hughes.
Knees to the body from Hughes.
Hughes using the Thai clinch to land knees to the body.
Hughes is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the ropes.
Hughes connects with a nasty looking knee right to Vendo's face.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Hughes connects with a nasty looking knee right to Vendo's face.
Hughes trying to control the position but instead, Vendo has worked for underhooks and has pushed Hughes into the ropes.
Vendo takes a knee right on the jaw!
Hughes displaying some good clinch control by pressing Vendo up against the ropes.
Vendo struggles to land a body shot inside as Hughes controls his hands.
Hughes lands a knee to the head there! That was nasty!
Hughes with the Thai clinch. He's looking to land a big knee but he's not managed it this time.
Vendo can't break the clinch.
Hughes misses with a knee strike.
Kneeeeees! The crowd are calling for knees to the body. Hughes obliges.
Hughes putting his Muay Thai to good use. He has Vendo in a tight clinch and is doing some damage with knees to the body.
Vendo is trying to break the clinch but Hughes has him pressed against the ropes.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Vendo pushes Hughes back against the ropes and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Vendo takes a knee to the side of the body.
Vendo avoiding damage as Hughes throws knees to the body.
Vendo jumps guard but Hughes stands there with Vendo around his waist. Vendo gives up and drops back to his feet. We remain in the clinch.
Andrew Hughes has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Drake Vendo.
Vendo has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Hughes avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Hughes unloads a knee to the mid-section.
Hughes slowing the pace effectively.
Vendo fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Hughes putting his Muay Thai to good use. He has Vendo in a tight clinch and is doing some damage with knees to the body.
Hughes utilising his Muay Thai to score with a knee to the body.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Vendo as Hughes tries to tie him up.
Hughes using the Thai clinch to land knees to the body.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Hughes lands a knee to the head there! That was nasty!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Hughes utilising his Muay Thai to score with a knee to the body.
A knee to the head by Hughes.
Hughes landing some nice looking knees to the body.
Vendo takes a knee to the side of the body.
Vendo misses with a hook from the clinch.
Hughes lands a good knee to the midsection. Vendo won't want to take too many of those.
Hughes is looking to control Vendo's arms but Vendo gets an underhook and turns him. Now Hughes has his back to the ropes.
Hughes with a knee to the head.

That has opened up Drake Vendo's cut even more.
Hughes is trying to slow down the pace in the clinch, to catch his breath.
Vendo is looking for a takedown.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Hughes lands a knee to the body.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Vendo takes a knee to the side of the body.
Hughes unloads a knee to the mid-section.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Andrew Hughes dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Drake Vendo's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!

Hughes has taken the fight to the clinch.
Hughes landing some nice looking knees to the body.
Hughes is trying to stall.
Hughes landing knees to the body. They look like they could hurt.
Hughes landing knees to the head.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Hughes scores with a knee to the head.
Hughes is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Vendo can do to turn this around?
Hughes lands a good knee to the midsection. Vendo won't want to take too many of those.
Vendo with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Hughes landing knees to the body. They look like they could hurt.
Hughes trying to land knees to the body.
Hughes throws a knee to the head but misses.
Hughes with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Hughes is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Vendo is defending well for now.
Hughes is trying to stall.
Hughes scores a nice knee to the body.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hughes working Vendo over with knees to the body.
Vendo takes a knee to the side of the body.
Hughes lands a knee to the head there! That was nasty!
Hughes lands a knee to the body.
Hughes putting his Muay Thai to good use. He has Vendo in a tight clinch and is doing some damage with knees to the body.
Knees in the clinch landing for Hughes.
Hughes crunches a lovely knee into Vendo's ribcage.
Hughes throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but Vendo blocks it with crossed arms.
Vendo avoiding damage as Hughes throws knees to the body.
Hughes is looking to control Vendo's arms but Vendo gets an underhook and turns him. Now Hughes has his back to the ropes.
Hughes throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but Vendo blocks it with crossed arms.
Hughes looking to throw knees to the head but Vendo is blocking nicely.
Hughes is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Vendo is keeping busy.

Vendo manages to pull guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Hughes trying to control but Vendo is working from the bottom.
Vendo is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.

Vendo has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Hughes can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Vendo doesn't do any damage with a couple of strikes from the bottom.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Hughes wants to control from the top but Vendo keeps moving.
Hughes has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.

We're going to have a standup here because Andrew Hughes wasn't active enough for the referee's liking.

Hughes drives through and clinches with Vendo against the ropes.
A head punch on the inside from Vendo fails to land.
Andrew Hughes has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Hughes landing knees to the body.
Vendo is leaning against Hughes and scores with a nice uppercut to the body.
Vendo has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Hughes avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Hughes putting his Muay Thai to good use. He has Vendo in a tight clinch and is doing some damage with knees to the body.
Hughes will no doubt start fighting again in a minute but for now he's just having a little rest, leaning Vendo up against the ropes.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Vendo as Hughes tries to tie him up.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Hughes lands a knee to the head.
Hughes is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Vendo is keeping busy.
Hughes unloads a knee to the mid-section. Vendo lets out a prehistoric sounding urrrrgh.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Hughes lands a knee to the head.
Hughes misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Vendo.
Hughes taking a breather.
Vendo has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Hughes after a bit of a struggle.
A knee to the head by Hughes.
Hughes is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Vendo is defending well for now.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Hughes taking a breather.
Vendo is looking to take this one to the mat.
Andrew Hughes has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Drake Vendo.
Hughes connects with a knee to the head.
Hughes lands a knee to the head.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Andrew Hughes dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Drake Vendo's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. The crowd applaud as we get ready to start the final round!

Vendo tries to keep at a distance but Hughes has taken the fight into the clinch.
Hughes crunches a lovely knee into Vendo's ribcage.
Hughes connects with a nasty looking knee right to Vendo's face.

Vendo breaks the clinch.
Vendo shoots in but no luck this time.
Vendo shoots in and drives through. Hughes sprawls well.

Hughes gets a clinch.
Hughes lands a knee to the head there! That was nasty!

Vendo is rocked!
Hughes is trying to wear down his opponent with knees to the body.
Vendo is still on wobbly legs! Can Hughes finish him?
Hughes unloads a knee to the mid-section.
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!
Hughes is trying to maintain a safe position but Vendo gets an underhook and turns Hughes into the ropes.
Hughes tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Vendo avoids it.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Hughes tries a knee to the head but Vendo blocks it.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hughes landing knees to the head.
Vendo managing to block the knees to the body from Hughes.
Hughes lands a knee to the body.
Hughes looking to throw knees to the head but Vendo is blocking nicely.
Hughes is looking to control Vendo's arms but Vendo gets an underhook and turns him. Now Hughes has his back to the ropes.
Vendo seems to have recovered his senses.
Hughes can't seem to implement his control oriented gameplan at the moment. That's no bad thing of course, for those of us who want to see a good fight.
Hughes misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Vendo.
Hughes using the Thai plumb to throw knees but Vendo has his back arched nicely, preventing the strike.
The referee is keeping an eye on Vendo - much more stalling and he will separate the fighters.
Hughes is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Vendo is defending well for now.

Vendo pulls guard.
Vendo is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Hughes is controlling him.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Vendo working for a triangle but Hughes defends it easily.

Hughes stands up from guard. Let's bang!
Vendo throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Hughes has managed to clinch.
Hughes taking a breather.
Hughes crunches a lovely knee into Vendo's ribcage.
Hughes stalling.
Vendo tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Hughes smiles and moves away.
Andrew Hughes has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Drake Vendo.
Vendo shoots in but Hughes avoids the takedown attempt easily.

Vendo tries to keep at a distance but Hughes has taken the fight into the clinch.
Vendo takes a knee right on the jaw!

The cut above Drake Vendo's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
Vendo is trying to break free.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Vendo tries to break free but Hughes pushes him back against the ropes.
Hughes with the Thai clinch. He's looking to land a big knee but he's not managed it this time.
Hughes missing with knees to the body.
Vendo has had enough of the clinch and is looking to separate.
Vendo on the defensive, avoiding the knees to the body.
Hughes tries a knee to the head but he's missed.
Hughes lands a nice knee to the body.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Vendo lands a nice shot to the body.
Hughes with the Thai clinch. He's looking to land a big knee but he's not managed it this time.
Hughes is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the ropes.
Drake Vendo has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Hughes gets underhooks to prevent Vendo's takedown attempt.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Hughes is trying to stall.
Hughes blocks a body shot from Vendo.
Andrew Hughes is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Hughes tries to land a knee to the head but Vendo blocks with his arms.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Seu Braga scores the fight 30:26
Judge Emerson Jorge scores the fight 30:26
Judge Paulo Santos scores the fight 30:26

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Andrew Hughes!
A relieved looking Andrew Hughes thanked the fans for their support and gave the usual line about them being amazing. They seemed to believe that he actually meant it.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
100%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Joe Drake (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Robb Spewak (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Spewak has chosen The German National Anthem as his entrance music, which hasn't gone down very well with the crowd. Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the ring.

Drake
vs
Spewak

181 cm
24
170 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

180 cm
32
182 lbs
17 - 13 - 0

Decent wrestler
Counter striker
Cuts easily

BJJ Purple Belt
Good kicks
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the welterweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Joe Drake!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 17 - 13 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Robb Spewak!
The judges for this bout are Luis Engracia, Felipe Paraventi and Leandro Rodrigues.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
No luck for Spewak with that takedown attempt.
Drake slaps away a takedown attempt from Spewak, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Drake displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Spewak.
Joe Drake has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Robb Spewak.
Nice sprawl there from Spewak as Drake shoots in.
No luck for Spewak with that takedown attempt.
Drake shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Spewak but Spewak pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Spewak shoots for a double leg takedown but Drake sprawls well. He's pushed Spewak's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Spewak.
Drake fails to land the takedown.
Horrible takedown by Drake or perhaps it was just good defense by Spewak which made him look bad.
Spewak has a takedown stuffed.
Robb Spewak seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Drake stuffs the takedown.
Spewak will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Spewak fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Drake avoids it really well and circles away.
Spewak looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Drake is fending him off so far but Spewak persists. Nope, Drake circles away and we're back to standing.
Drake shoots in for a double leg but Spewak sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Spewak shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Drake as he jumps to the side.
Spewak shoots in for a takedown but Drake shows good takedown defense.
Drake shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Drake fails with a takedown attempt.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Spewak looks for a takedown but Drake sprawls well.
Spewak tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Drake swivels and escapes.
Spewak with a lazy takedown attempt

and Drake counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Spewak avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Spewak keeping moving, preventing Drake from controlling successfully.
Drake is looking to work some ground and pound but Spewak has wrist control.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Spewak keeping moving, preventing Drake from controlling successfully.

Spewak is looking for a triangle but Drake pushes his legs off easily.
Spewak keeping full guard, as Drake tries to pass.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Drake slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
The fighters are trapped in the ropes so we're going to have a reposition here. The ref calls for a break and repositions the fighters in the center of the ring.
Drake misses with the ground and pound.
Spewak can't do much from the bottom here.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Drake wants to lay and pray for a moment but Spewak keeps working.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Joe Drake dominated that round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!

Spewak is trying hard to land a takedown here. Drake sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Nice sprawl there from Drake as Spewak shoots in.
Spewak fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Drake avoids it really well and circles away.
Joe Drake has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Robb Spewak.
Spewak tries for a takedown but Drake sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Drake fails with a takedown attempt.
Spewak shoots for a double leg takedown but Drake sprawls well. He's pushed Spewak's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Drake fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Spewak sprawls well initially but Drake persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Drake is keen to just control but Spewak is a slippery customer.
Drake trying to advance position but Spewak counters by regaining guard.

Spewak had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Drake defends it easily.

Spewak looking for a guillotine here but Drake defends easily.
Drake is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Drake throws a big elbow that misses.
Drake trying to control the position from guard on top but Spewak is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Drake loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.

Spewak working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Drake doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Drake manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Drake throws a strike but Spewak rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top.

Spewak thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Spewak won't allow Drake to get back to his feet.
Spewak trying to control but Drake is working from the bottom.
Spewak won't allow Drake to get back to his feet.
Drake knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Spewak on the ground.
Spewak postures up and lands a big shot to Drake's brow.
Drake keeping moving, preventing Spewak from controlling successfully.
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.
Spewak trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Joe Drake overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Drake keeping moving, preventing Spewak from controlling successfully.
Drake keeping full guard, as Spewak tries to pass.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.

Well, the referee has seen enough. Neither fighter is active enough on the ground so he's stood them back up.
Spewak shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Drake but Drake pushes him off and we're back to square one.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Robb Spewak showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action! This is the final round!

Spewak fails to land the takedown.
No luck for Spewak with that takedown attempt.
No luck for Drake with that takedown attempt.
Drake leaves Spewak with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Joe Drake has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Robb Spewak.
Spewak fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nice sprawl there from Drake as Spewak shoots in.
Nice sprawl there from Drake as Spewak shoots in.
Spewak takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Spewak throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Drake's waist but Drake gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Spewak off to one side.
Spewak just misses with a punch to the body.
Spewak closes the distance and clinches up with Drake, looking for a takedown. Spewak pushes Drake against the ropes but Drake circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
Drake is trying hard to land a takedown here. Spewak sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.

Drake scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Drake slows the pace down.
Sloppy strikes there by Drake.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Spewak is trying to buck Drake off.
Drake looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Spewak is avoiding damage well.
Spewak regains half guard, as Drake was trying to land strikes.
Drake throws a strike but Spewak avoids it easily and moves to full guard.
Drake won't allow Spewak to get back to his feet.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Drake wants to control from the top but Spewak keeps moving.
Spewak utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Spewak looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Drake loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Drake wants to control from the top but Spewak keeps moving.
Drake looking to sit in guard and control but Spewak gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.
Spewak trying to control but Drake is working from the bottom.
Drake wants to stand and escape but Spewak is having none of it.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
We must be close to a standup if these guys don't pick up the pace.
Drake keeping moving, preventing Spewak from controlling successfully.
Drake on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Drake tries to get out of the position.
Spewak won't allow Drake to get back to his feet.
Spewak forces his way into half guard.

Spewak is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.

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 Joe Drake.
I think Drake has won this one but let's see what the judges have to say. 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 Luis Engracia scores the fight 29:28
Judge Felipe Paraventi scores the fight 29:28
Judge Leandro Rodrigues scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Joe Drake!
Joe Drake seemed lost for words in his post fight interview but he remembered to thank his fans and directed everyone to his website.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
37%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Barry Badridge (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jason Donovan (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Fingers crossed for an exciting fight - I'm sure both fighters are looking for a nice under the table bonus!

Badridge
vs
Donovan

191 cm
25
194 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

185 cm
25
176 lbs
4 - 2 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Solid Muay Thai
Big heart

BJJ Brown Belt
Good kicks
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Barry Badridge!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Jason Donovan!
The judges for this bout are Emerson Jorge, Thiago Cunha and Luis Engracia.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Jab, cross, leg kick. Nice combination by Badridge!

It looks like Jason Donovan has been cut.
Donovan looks for the body kick but Badridge saw that one coming.
Badridge moves out of range of the body kick from Donovan.
Donovan loads up on a big right hand but Badridge slips the punch.
Badridge throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Donovan.
Badridge blocks a jab.
Barry Badridge seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Badridge avoids the body shot from Donovan.
Badridge tests Donovan's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Donovan throws a sloppy head kick and Badridge moves out of range easily.
Donovan dodges the punch combination from Badridge.

Badridge drops Donovan with a left and a right! Oh, Donovan is hurt - Badridge dives into side control looking to finish!
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Donovan is letting Badridge control him for a moment.
Badridge tries to stand but Donovan is controlling his head.
Badridge working away.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Badridge tries to advance to mount but can't.

Badridge decides to stand up, so the ref orders Donovan to his feet.
Donovan wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Badridge throws a combination. Donovan tries to block but a couple of punches get through.

That has opened up Jason Donovan's cut even more.
Badridge misses with a jab, cross combination.
Donovan misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Badridge throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Donovan counters with a leg kick.
Badridge avoids the body shot from Donovan.

Badridge gets to the clinch - let's see what his plan is here.

Badridge's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Badridge blocks a head kick by Donovan.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Donovan thows a left - swing and a miss!
Donovan loads up on a big right hand but Badridge slips the punch.
Badridge lands a glancing blow to the side of Donovan's head.
Donovan throws a nice head kick!
Badridge misses with a series of wild punches.
Badridge lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
Donovan throws a lazy right hand but Badridge sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.

Badridge moves into range and clinches up with Donovan.
Badridge lands a nice elbow.

The cut above Jason Donovan's eye is starting to cause him problems now.

Badridge breaks from the clinch.
Badridge will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Badridge lets the fists fly and connects with a left straight followed by a right hook.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Badridge misses with a leg kick.
Donovan scores with a jab to the body.

Badridge drops Donovan with a left right combo! Badridge follows him down to the ground into side control.

Donovan is rocked!

Jason Donovan's cut is absolute horrible now. This looks like something out of a horror film with blood covering both fighters.

The referee calls the doctor in to look at Jason Donovan's cut. Oh no, the doctor has called an end to the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:36 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Barry Badridge!
Barry Badridge made sure to give a little speech post fight, saying 'I am back on track. Last time I did some mistakes, but it won't happen again. I swear!'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
66%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Dan McCall (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Heist Vans (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). I'm sure you'll be fascinated to know that I was talking to some pointless Z list celebrity before the fight and he thought that Heist Vans was going to win. Let's see if he was right.

McCall
vs
Vans

182 cm
26
192 lbs
2 - 2 - 0

188 cm
25
190 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Basic striking
KO power

BJJ Purple Belt
Basic striking
Enjoys gardening

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Dan McCall!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Heist Vans!
The judges for this bout are Felipe Paraventi, Seu Braga and Mauricio Rocha.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
The fight stays on the outside here - Vans looks like he's thinking about clinching though.

McCall moves into the clinch successfully.

McCall manages to break the clinch.

Vans gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows McCall to score an easy takedown into full guard.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
McCall stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Vans swivels though and keeps the full guard.
McCall wants to control from the top but Vans keeps moving.
Vans looking to control.
Both fighters really going for it on the ground here!
McCall stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Vans swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Vans can't keep his opponent in guard - McCall advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
McCall wants to pass the guard but Vans is defending well.
McCall is keen to just control but Vans is a slippery customer.
McCall lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.

That's one minute gone in the round.
McCall wants to pass the guard but Vans is defending well.
McCall is looking to take a break and control but Vans is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
McCall is pressing down on Vans's thigh, looking to free his foot. Vans is holding on for now.

McCall is looking for a kimura but Vans is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for McCall to get the leverage.
McCall is trying to control. Vans wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.

Vans is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but McCall pulls his head out easily.

Vans looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
McCall is looking to take a break and control but Vans is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
McCall passes to side control.
McCall tries to move into full mount but can't pass Vans's legs.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
McCall is working hard here to advance position.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
You can see the frustration on Vans's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
The fighters are trapped in the ropes so we're going to have a reposition here. The ref calls for a break and repositions the fighters in the center of the ring.
Vans is looking for a sweep.
McCall working away.
McCall tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.

McCall is trying to get an arm triangle but Vans is defending well.
McCall wants to control but Vans is keeping him busy.
Vans can't do much from the bottom here.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
McCall tries to cartwheel into mount but he doesn't manage it.
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
McCall creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Vans sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
McCall wants to lay and pray for a moment but Vans keeps working.
McCall working the body and head with strikes.
Vans is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on McCall's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.
Vans is looking to improve his position.

Vans looking for submissions off his back.
McCall looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
McCall wants to take a breather but Vans is having none of it.
McCall landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
McCall stalling.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Vans actively working from the bottom here.
McCall wants to take a breather but Vans is having none of it.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Well, if McCall 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.
McCall trying to control from Vans's half guard. Vans has other ideas though and has regained full guard.

Vans looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Vans is looking for a triangle but McCall pushes his legs off easily.
Vans keeping moving, preventing McCall from controlling successfully.
McCall tries to free his leg and advance position but Vans is retaining full guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Dan McCall dominated that round.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the ring so we can get back down to business.

McCall has closed the distance and engaged Vans in a clinch.
Vans looking to throw knees to the head but McCall is blocking nicely.
Vans trying to land knees to the body.
McCall misses with a body punch.
Vans throws a vicious knee straight up the middle but McCall blocks it with crossed arms.
McCall is trying to force a seperation but Vans has the dominant position.
Vans lands a nice knee to the body.
Vans looking to stall.
Vans tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and McCall avoids it.
Vans lands an elbow that stopped McCall in his tracks for a moment.
McCall can't find room to land a body shot as Vans controls the action.
McCall tries to break the clinch but Vans is controlling the position.

McCall escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Vans lands a jab to the head.

McCall manages to get an easy takedown there - catching Vans on his heels. He'll look to pass Vans's guard now, I'm sure.
Dan McCall overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.

Vans working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. McCall doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. McCall manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
This has been an exciting period of action!
McCall stays in close to Vans's body and controls the position.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Vans is actively looking for submissions from his back. He's worked himself a little space on the bottom and seems to be going for a triangle. No, he's switched into an armbar! That was slick! McCall rolls with it to try and escape but Vans cranks on the arm and McCall is forced to tap out! This one is aaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:24 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Heist Vans!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
100%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Luigi Bazinga (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Leo Cotterman (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Leo Cotterman has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Bazinga
vs
Cotterman

176 cm
21
215 lbs
4 - 2 - 0

185 cm
25
210 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
World class boxer
Very quick

Good wrestler
Brawler
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the light heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 4 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Luigi Bazinga!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Leo Cotterman!
The judges for this bout are Mauricio Rocha, Paulo Santos and Edson Gomes.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Bazinga throws a nice looking combination but Cotterman bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Bazinga throws a shot to the body.
Cotterman throws a shot from downtown. Bazinga moves away and avoids it.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Cotterman.

Cotterman clinches with his opponent.
Bazinga stops a takedown attempt from Cotterman.
Bazinga working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Bazinga scores with a nice hook to the head.
A right hook to the body lands for Bazinga.
A short right from Bazinga.
Cotterman takes a shot to the head.
With the fighters clinched against the ropes, Bazinga creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
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!
Cotterman takes an elbow to the forehead.

It looks like Leo Cotterman has been cut.
Bazinga has Cotterman pushed against the ropes.
Bazinga pushes Cotterman back against the ropes and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Cotterman's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!

That's one minute gone in the round.
Bazinga lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Cotterman missing with knees to the body.
Cotterman is trying to pull guard but Bazinga turns him against the ropes and we stay in the clinch.
Luigi Bazinga has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Leo Cotterman.
Bazinga lands a shoulder strike.
Bazinga stalls.
Cotterman is trying to stall.
Bazinga scores with a shoulder strike.
Bazinga cracks Cotterman with a nice body shot.
Cotterman looks gassed!
A nice left hand lands by Bazinga.
Bazinga lands a nice elbow.

Cotterman is rocked!
Cotterman can't get the takedown.
Cotterman is looking for a takedown.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Bazinga is pushing Cotterman up against the ropes, for a bit of lean and pray action. Action being used the in the loosest possible sense of the word.
Bazinga lands with a quick shot inside that doesn't really do much damage.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Bazinga scores with a shot to the side of Cotterman's head.

Bazinga drops Cotterman onto one knee with a big uppercut from the clinch! Cotterman is propped up by the ropes and works his way back to his feet!
Cotterman is still on wobbly legs! Can Bazinga finish him?
Bazinga pushes Cotterman against the ropes. Bazinga is working some dirty boxing. Bazinga pushes off with a quick right hook! Cotterman goes down! Cotterman tries to stand but stumbles back to his kness! Bazinga moves in to finish and the ref steps in to prevent any more damage!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:24 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Luigi Bazinga!
A victorious Luigi Bazinga thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
74%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Mark Brown (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Barbados Slim (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Brown comes to the ring accompanied by Dope - I'm Back. Well, I have no idea who's going to take this one!

Brown
vs
Slim

180 cm
25
217 lbs
10 - 5 - 1

185 cm
26
220 lbs
8 - 2 - 2

Good wrestling
Excellent boxer
Experienced

Good wrestler
Decent boxing
Powerful

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the light heavyweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 10 - 5 - 1, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Mark Brown!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 8 - 2 - 2, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Barbados Slim!
The judges for this bout are Alexandre Firmino, Luis Engracia and Paulo Santos.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Slim shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in full mount! That's better than Slim was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
Slim lands a big elbow.
Slim trying to control but Brown is having none of it.
Brown is looking to get to half guard.
Brown is squirming around, avoiding Slim's attempts to control the action.
Slim controlling the pace for now.
Slim misses with a series of strikes from mount. He'll no doubt be working on his ground and pound when he gets back to the gym.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Slim tries to control but Brown wriggling away.
Slim might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Brown kaven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.
Brown is wriggling around trying to escape.
Brown suckers Slim into throwing a sloppy strike and uses the momentum to reverse the position beautifully! Brown is now in Slim's guard!
Brown stopping the sweep attempt from Slim.

The ref stands the fighters back up. Barbados Slim was stalling too much, according to the referee.

Slim throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Brown was covering up waiting for the punch and Slim finishes the takedown easily into guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Slim won't allow Brown to sweep him here.
Slim trying to control the position from guard on top but Brown is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Brown bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Slim's guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Slim trying to control but Brown is working from the bottom.
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.
Brown is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Slim throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Brown keeping full guard, as Slim tries to pass.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Slim trying to control but Brown is working from the bottom.
Slim throwing strikes but missing.
Slim trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Slim stays in close to Brown's body and controls the position.

Neither fighter is doing enough for the referee's liking and he's decided to stand them back up.
Slim catches Brown with a nice straight right. He seems pissed - ooooh, it's on now! On like donkey kong!
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Slim thows a body shot but no joy.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Barbados Slim 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.

Slim lands with an uppercut that bounces Brown off the ropes and back into range.
Brown uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Slim.
A jab from Slim misses.
Slim displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Brown.

Excellent takedown into side control there by Brown.
Brown throwing strikes but missing, from side control.

Brown is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Slim has escaped the position, nice work there.
You can see the frustration on Slim's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Brown is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Slim has escaped the position, nice work there.

Brown wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Slim, who protects the arm well.
Brown scoring with punches from side control.

Brown is looking for a kimura. He might have it! No, Slim has escaped the position, nice work there.

Brown is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Slim knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Slim is looking for a sweep.
Brown throws a knee to the body but it doesn't do much damage.
Slim tries to bench press Brown off him but Brown keeps the position.

Brown thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.

Brown looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.

Brown swings around for an armbar but Slim sees it coming a mile off and turns beautifully into Brown's guard.
Slim postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
The fighters are trapped in the ropes so we're going to have a reposition here. The ref calls for a break and repositions the fighters in the center of the ring.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Brown is pulling down on Slim's head to control his posture.

Brown is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Slim not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Slim trying to control but Brown is working from the bottom.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.
Brown keeping full guard, as Slim tries to pass.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Barbados Slim has forced the referee to step in and restart the fight on the feet.
Slim digs a good hook to Brown's body.

Slim gets a takedown into half guard.

Slim is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Brown is just riding it out for now. Slim eventually gives up the hold.
Slim stalling away here and it's allowed Brown to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
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 Mark Brown will probably get the nod.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!

Slim will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Brown has his takedown stuffed
and Slim counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Brown tries for a takedown but Slim sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Brown misses with a takedown attempt
enabling Slim to counter with a crisp jab.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Mark Brown. That's going to take a lot out of him.

Slim shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
Slim wants to control from the top but Brown keeps moving.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Brown trying to control the position here.
Slim trying to control the position from guard on top but Brown is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
Slim looking to sit in guard and control but Brown gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.
Brown working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Slim's head.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Brown thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Brown keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Slim's head.
Brown landing with the ground and pound.

Brown 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.

Brown postures up as if he's going to throw some strikes but drops back for an ankle! Slim is in big trouble! He looks ready to tap! But no, he's escaped and dives on top of Brown, into his guard.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Slim trying to control the position from guard on top but Brown is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Brown not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Slim pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Brown is keeping the position for now.
Slim engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Brown manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Slim manages to get himself to full guard.
Slim utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Slim looking for a sweep. Not yet Slim, not yet.
Brown loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Brown drops back, looking for a kneebar! Slim looks panicked! The fighters roll across the mat, one looking to finish, one looking to escape. Slim looks to have wriggled free... Yes, he's got his leg free and he's dived into side control! Good work there from Slim!
Brown is not content to let Slim control the position.
You can see the frustration on Brown's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Slim trying to control the action but Brown is working from the bottom.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but Mark Brown did the better work so I'd imagine he'll take it.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!

Brown fails to land the takedown.

Brown scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Slim is trying to get back to half guard.
Slim is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.

Brown tries for a kimura but Slim is defending well.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Slim regains half guard.
Brown seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Brown missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Slim is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Brown is thwarting Slim's attempts to control the position.
Ground and pound from Brown.

Brown is working for a kimura but Slim is defending it quite comfortably.
Brown working the head and body with strikes.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Slim tries to get to full guard but Brown has control of the leg.

Brown wants to work for an arm triangle but Slim is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.

Brown is looking for a kimura here.
Slim is looking to improve his position.

Brown is working for a kimura but Slim is defending it quite comfortably.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Slim is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Slim on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Slim gets full guard.
Brown lands a couple of digs.
Brown works a leg free and moves into half guard.
Slim tries to roll over but Brown keeps him under control.
Brown thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Slim's head.

Brown wants to work for an arm triangle but Slim is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.

Brown wants to work for an arm triangle but Slim is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The fighters are battling for position here. Slim manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Brown stands up over Slim, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Brown content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Slim is on top in guard.
Slim looking to sit in guard and control but Brown gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.
Brown working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Brown postures up as if he's going to throw some strikes but drops back for an ankle! Slim is in big trouble! He looks ready to tap! But no, he's escaped and dives on top of Brown, into his guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Mark Brown had his way with Barbados Slim in that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!

A decent looking cross lands there for Slim.
No luck for Brown with that takedown attempt.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Slim 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.

That's one minute gone in the round.
A shot to the liver by Slim. Beautiful body shot.
Slim swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Brown slips under a jab.
Brown shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Slim sprawls well. Slim wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Brown gets slowly back to his feet.
Slim swings and misses with a hook to the body.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A swing and a miss from Slim.
Slim fails to land with a series of punches.
Slim swings and misses with a hook to the body.

Slim shoots in and bounces Brown off the ropes to secure the takedown into guard.
Slim not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Slim wants to pass the guard but Brown is keeping the position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Slim wants to control from the top but Brown keeps moving.
Barbados Slim has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Slim is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.
Slim looking to sit in guard and control but Brown gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.
Slim preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Brown postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Slim wants to stand and escape but Brown is having none of it.
Brown loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Brown postures up in Slim's guard and throws a big left but Slim blocks it.
Slim has momentary wrist control but Brown slips an elbow through the middle.

Brown drops back looking for a heel hook - he quickly realises he's not going to get it but Slim manages to dive on top of him before he can escape and now Brown has Slim in his guard.
Slim preventing the sweep.
Brown utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Slim throws a big elbow that misses.

And that's the end of the fight!
Barbados Slim comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Brown has won this one but let's see what the judges have to say. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Alexandre Firmino scores the fight 48:47
Judge Luis Engracia scores the fight 48:47
Judge Paulo Santos scores the fight 48:48

In favor of your winner, by majority decision... Mark Brown!
Mark Brown is the new light heavyweight champion!
A very excited looking Mark Brown 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.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
71%

Main event

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Din Thomas (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Romulo Mendes (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Din Thomas has the edge in experience - let's see if he can make that count tonight.

Thomas
vs
Mendes

186 cm
20
190 lbs
5 - 2 - 0

190 cm
25
190 lbs
3 - 0 - 0

BJJ Brown Belt
Solid boxing
Cardio machine

BJJ Brown Belt
Counter striker
Very confident

Popeye’s Spinach - 159 + 158 Proof Supps
Popeye’s Spinach - 159 + 158 Proof Supps

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the middleweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Din Thomas!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Romulo Mendes!
The judges for this bout are Mauricio Rocha, Matheus Silva and Emerson Jorge.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Thomas throws the overhand right but ducks down into a quick takedown attempt. Mendes was covering up waiting for the punch and Thomas finishes the takedown easily into guard.
Thomas stands and throws Mendes's legs to the side, diving into side control.

Thomas decides to stand back up. Thomas steps back and let's Mendes get back to his feet.
Thomas throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Thomas goes to the watering hole and comes back with a big thumbs up from the judges as he scores a three punch combo.

Thomas fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Mendes to the ground. Thomas is now in Mendes's guard.
Thomas is looking to stand up but Mendes won't let him.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Mendes is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Thomas defends well.
Thomas stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Mendes swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Thomas wants to stand but Mendes is controlling his posture from full guard.
Thomas throwing strikes from guard but Mendes blocks nicely.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Mendes working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Thomas doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Thomas manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Mendes wants to get back to his feet but Thomas is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.
Mendes keeping moving, preventing Thomas from controlling successfully.
Thomas sitting in guard here, content to control.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

The ref stands the fighters back up because Din Thomas just wasn't active enough.
Thomas takes a swing at Mendes's ribcage but misses.
Mendes avoids the body shot from Thomas.
Thomas misses with the combination.

Thomas bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Thomas working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Thomas stands up and beckons Mendes to his feet.

Thomas looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into mount! Oh, that's bad for Mendes!
Mendes keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Thomas controlling the position easily from mount.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Din Thomas dominated that round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.

Thomas scores with a hook to the body. Mendes takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Thomas throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.
Mendes shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Thomas counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Mendes thinking.
Mendes doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Thomas counters with a three punch combo that has Mendes backing up. Mendes nods at Thomas to acknowledge the strikes.
Din Thomas seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Thomas throws a right and a left that Mendes avoids nicely.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Thomas looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Mendes is trying to hold Thomas in close to prevent damage but Thomas has managed to pass into half guard.
Thomas is trying to control the action in half guard but Mendes is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Thomas controlling the pace.
Thomas wants to get back to his feet.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Thomas is looking to pass Mendes's guard but actually Mendes recovers to full guard.
Mendes trying to control the position.
Thomas content to stall in guard here.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.

We're going to have a standup here because Din Thomas wasn't active enough for the referee's liking.
A looping hook to the body misses from Thomas. Mendes does a little dance to reset his feet.

Thomas shoots in for a takedown from distance. He catches Mendes napping and manages to drive through into side control!
Mendes is looking to reverse the position.
Thomas taking a breather here.
Thomas wants to control but Mendes is keeping him busy.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Thomas has had enough of the ground for now and decides to stand.
Thomas lands a head shot.
Thomas ducks down and throws a hook to the body.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Thomas displaying good standup as he scores with a three punch combination.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Mendes misses with a takedown

and Thomas counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Din Thomas dominated that second round.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!

Thomas darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
The fighters are trapped in the ropes so we're going to have a reposition here. The ref calls for a break and repositions the fighters in the center of the ring.
Thomas wants to control but Mendes is keeping him busy.
Mendes is looking for a sweep. Thomas is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Din Thomas overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Thomas is looking to take a break and control but Mendes is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.

Thomas stands, ready to strike. The ref makes him back up and allows Mendes to get to his feet.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Thomas scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Thomas content to control rather than advance.
Thomas is thwarting Mendes's attempts to control the position.
Thomas tries to stand and escape but Mendes is controlling the position.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Thomas has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Thomas trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Thomas controlling his opponent.
Thomas wants to control but Mendes has made it back to half guard. Nice work.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Mendes is trying to get back to full guard.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.
Thomas wants to stand up but Mendes is controlling the position.
Well, if Thomas 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.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.

The ref stands the fighters back up because Din Thomas just wasn't active enough.
Thomas digs a good hook to Mendes's body.
A punch combination from Thomas misses.
Mendes shoots in for a double leg but Thomas sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Thomas tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Mendes was well out of range. Poor timing from Thomas.
Mendes gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Thomas counters with a nice body shot.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Din Thomas clearly takes that round.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the ring so we can get back down to business.

Thomas shuffles to his left behind two crisp jabs. Mendes eats them both and turns towards Thomas to reposition himself and eats a stinging right hand-left hook combo.
Mendes falls off balance throwing a combination

and Thomas counters with a nice single leg takedown and he's in Mendes's guard now.
Thomas is stalling in the full guard.

Thomas stands up and waves to Mendes to follow him.
Thomas looks to land a combination but Mendes avoids it well.
Din Thomas is winning the standup battle so far.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Mendes fails with a takedown attempt.
Thomas misses with a series of wild punches.

Thomas shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Thomas stands, ready to strike. The ref makes him back up and allows Mendes to get to his feet.
Thomas is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Mendes can do to turn this around?
Mendes takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Mendes with a lazy takedown attempt

and Thomas counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Mendes keeping moving, preventing Thomas from controlling successfully.
Thomas sitting in guard, not really doing much.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Mendes wants to stand up but Thomas is controlling him.

Din Thomas has forced the referee to step in and bring the fight back to the feet.
A combination from Thomas does no damage.
Mendes throws a solid leg kick but Thomas takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Mendes.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Mendes tries to clinch up against the ropes, rushing in the close the distance. Thomas manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Thomas throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.

Thomas scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Thomas is looking to take a break and control but Mendes is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.

Thomas decides to stand back up.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Mendes doesn't succeed with the takedown

and Thomas counters with a nice double leg into guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Din Thomas had his way with Romulo Mendes in 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. This is the final round!

Thomas feints and as Mendes raises his hands in defense, Thomas changes levels and drives through with a takedown into guard.
Mendes not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Thomas trying to control but Mendes is working from the bottom.
Thomas wanted to stand there but Mendes had control of the position.

Well, the referee has seen enough. Neither fighter is active enough on the ground so he's stood them back up.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Mendes.
Mendes shoots and misses
and Thomas counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Thomas connects with a lovely jab that went straight through the gap between Mendes's hands.
Mendes misses with a takedown attempt
and Thomas counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Din Thomas has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Romulo Mendes.
Mendes is wobbling all over the place through exhaustion. Will he make it to the final bell?
Thomas lands a two punch combo.

Mendes is rocked!
Mendes throws a wild hook but Thomas just manages to duck under it and - ooooh! Mendes gets nailed by a brutal uppercut which crumples him back against the ropes! The referee jumps in - Thomas raises his hands in celebration and walks away!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:33 of round 5, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Din Thomas!
Din Thomas is the new middleweight champion!
Din Thomas was full of energy after the big win and talked about how he thinks he can do big things in this sport. The crowd were appreciative of his determination to succeed.