Bellum 49: Ivanov Vs Melendez PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Lucio Clemente (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Paulo SIlva (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The crowd giving both fighters a great reception on their way into the arena. That's good to see.

Clemente
vs
SIlva

185 cm
25
165 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

180 cm
30
156 lbs
6 - 6 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Good knees
Very strong

Good takedowns
Brawler
Knockout power

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the lightweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Lucio Clemente!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 6 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Paulo SIlva!
The judges for this bout are Timothy Bukovac, and Jack Bonds.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Clemente shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as SIlva sprawls well. SIlva wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Clemente gets slowly back to his feet.
SIlva takes a punch to the jaw and another one to the bread basket.
SIlva tries to clinch there but Clemente circles away.
Paulo SIlva seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.

Clemente gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.

SIlva 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.

SIlva thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Clemente looking to sweep here. No luck so far.

SIlva drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and SIlva jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
SIlva advances position into side control!

SIlva tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no SIlva has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.

SIlva has an Americana. Clemente didn't react quickly enough there and he's in big trouble now! He tries to squirm out but is forced to tap! SIlva is delighted and gyrates in front of the ring girls. They seem to like the attention - it'll be interesting to see if SIlva hooks up with any of them at the after show party.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:56 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Paulo SIlva!

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 featherweight MMA rules bout between Ricardo Nova Terra (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Macho Franco (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Nova Terra comes into the arena with Super Duper Love blaring out of the sound system. On his way into the cage it seems that Ricardo Nova Terra has been attacked by a crazed fan! It looks like it might have been the just bleed guy! Luckily Ricardo Nova Terra seems to be OK! I thought that lunatic was in prison!?

Nova Terra
vs
Franco

176 cm
19
145 lbs
1 - 1 - 1

170 cm
29
153 lbs
3 - 3 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Counter striker
Intelligent

Good wrestler
Brawler
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 1, fighting out of Los Angeles, Ricardo Nova Terra!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Macho Franco!
The judges for this bout are , Timothy Bukovac and Don Winkell.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Nice takedown defense from Nova Terra. No joy for Franco on that attempt.
Franco tries for a takedown but Nova Terra circles away easily
and Nova Terra counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Franco thinking.
Franco tries for a takedown but Nova Terra circles away easily
and Nova Terra counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Ricardo Nova Terra has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Macho Franco.
Franco takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Good standup being displayed there by Nova Terra as he connects with a hook.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Franco takes a body punch that cleary hurt but he's trying not to show any weakness.
Franco looks gassed!
Nova Terra misses with a wild body shot.
Nova Terra wants to clinch up but Franco keeps it at a distance.
Franco shoots in for a takedown but Nova Terra shows good takedown defense.
Nova Terra jabs at Franco's body.
Franco with a lazy takedown attempt
and Franco takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Nova Terra is looking to wear down Franco with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Nova Terra digs a good body shot into Franco's ribs.
Franco takes a body punch but keeps moving.
Nova Terra dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Nova Terra just misses with a punch to the body.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Franco fails with a takedown attempt.
Nova Terra fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
A shot to the liver by Nova Terra. Beautiful body shot.
Nova Terra punishes Franco's body with a nice straight punch.
Nova Terra misses with a body shot.
Franco shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Nova Terra defends it nicely.
Franco gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Nova Terra counters with a right hand to the body.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Nova Terra throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Franco stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Nova Terra throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Nova Terra swings and misses with a hook to the body.

Franco scores a takedown into full mount!

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Franco goes for an armbar but he's fallen flat on his backside there and now Nova Terra is on top in guard.

Franco escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Nova Terra gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Nova Terra trying to stand up but can't free himself from Franco's guard.

Franco is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Nova Terra is aware though and is defending well.
Nova Terra trying to stand up but can't free himself from Franco's guard.
Nova Terra has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Franco keeping moving, preventing Nova Terra from controlling successfully.

Franco is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Nova Terra wants to stand but Franco is controlling his posture from full guard.
Nova Terra knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Franco on the ground.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Franco has his feet on Nova Terra's thighs here. He's pushed Nova Terra off and worked for a very quick armbar from the bottom! He's flipped onto his stomach and he's cranking hard on the arm! Nova Terra screams in pain and taps out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:25 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Macho Franco!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
74%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Jose Fontes (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Joe Laynpray (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The crowd seem to be enjoying Laynpray's choice of entrance music: Estranged by GN'R - all 10 minuets of it.. Jose Fontes looks tired to me. Hopefully he has got enough gas left in the tank to put in a good performance.

Fontes
vs
Laynpray

185 cm
18
185 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

175 cm
22
190 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
KO power

Decent wrestler
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 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Jose Fontes!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Joe Laynpray!
The judges for this bout are Timothy Bukovac, Frank Antenori and Don Winkell.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Laynpray looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
Fontes is looking to improve his position.
Laynpray controlling the action here.
Laynpray works his way into full mount!
Laynpray controlling the position easily from mount.
Laynpray should think about turning a few of those tyres round his middle into muscle if he wants people to take him seriously as an athlete.

Laynpray has hold of Fontes's left arm, perhaps looking for a submission. The two fighters tussle over control of the isolated limb and Fontes manages to get his arm back to his side and away from danger.
Laynpray controlling the pace for now.
Fontes wants to hold on but Laynpray pushes him away.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Laynpray takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Laynpray with the ground and pound from mount.
Fontes is breathing heavily.
Laynpray tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
Laynpray working Fontes over with strikes here.
Laynpray controlling his opponent.
Laynpray with shots to the head and body - Fontes looks very uncomfortable down there.
Laynpray dominating with strikes here.

Laynpray looking for an armbar but decides to keep the dominant position instead.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Laynpray controlling the position easily from mount.
Laynpray breaks from Fontes's wrist control and lands an elbow.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Laynpray controlling his opponent.
Laynpray has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Laynpray's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.
It looks like Laynpray might be adopting somewhat of a lay and pray gameplan here, which I'm sure won't go down too well with the paying fans in attendance... Or the ring announcers come to think of it.

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

Laynpray drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Laynpray advances to mount.
Laynpray controlling the position easily from mount.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Laynpray scores with a couple of good head shots there.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Laynpray lands with some strikes.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Laynpray controlling his opponent.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Joe Laynpray dominated that round.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.

Fontes clinches up with Laynpray and pushes him back against the cage.

Laynpray turns his back and goes for a hip toss. It's a bit messy but it gets the job done and Laynpray manages to end up in side control.
Laynpray is pausing for a moment. What's he doing? It looks like he's clearing his nose. Oh dude! He's shot a load of snot all down Fontes's shoulder. That is not cool.
Laynpray has knee on belly and moves into mount.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Laynpray takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Joe Laynpray has forced the referee to step in and restart the fight on the feet.

Laynpray bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Fontes trying to remain calm as Laynpray controls from the top position.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Let's hope that Laynpray has the urge to step up the pace any second now because for the last 15 or 20 seconds he's just been holding on tight.

The ref stands the fighters back up, due to lack of action by Joe Laynpray.

Laynpray 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.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Laynpray sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Laynpray slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Fontes takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Laynpray landing a few strikes.
Fontes is being controlled here.
Laynpray has knee on belly and moves into mount.
Laynpray controlling from the full mount.
Laynpray has been the more effective fighter overall so far.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Laynpray lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.
Laynpray tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
Fontes is in a horrible position here. Laynpray smacks him with another shot as he tries to escape the position.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Laynpray punishing his opponent with strikes.
Laynpray content just to control the position here.
Laynpray raining down hammerfists from mount.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Laynpray controlling from mount.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Joe Laynpray showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!

Laynpray shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Fontes's guard.

Laynpray decides to stand up and beckons his opponent to follow.

Laynpray closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Laynpray lands in his opponent's guard.
Laynpray pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Fontes is keeping the position for now.
Laynpray showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.

That's one minute gone in the round.

The ref stands the fighters back up, due to lack of action by Joe Laynpray.

Laynpray drives through with a takedown into guard.
Laynpray sitting in guard here, content to control.
Laynpray advances position into side control!
Fontes is being controlled here.
Fontes stops Laynpray from passing to mount.
Laynpray is staying tight to Fontes's torso, preventing him from escaping.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Fontes struggling a bit here.
Laynpray staying calm.

The ref calls for a clean break and stands the fighters back up. Joe Laynpray wasn't active enough on the ground.

Laynpray looking to score a takedown here. Fontes is defending well but Laynpray drives through and ends up in Fontes's guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Laynpray 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.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Joe Laynpray has got the better of the ground game so far.

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

Laynpray drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
Laynpray is stalling in the full guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters - he looks like he's thinking about a standup.
Laynpray lands a couple of elbows.
Laynpray showing good wrestling skills to control the position.

The ref stands the fighters back up, due to lack of action by Joe Laynpray.

Laynpray darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Laynpray controlling the action here.
This has been an exciting period of action!
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

And that's the end of the fight!
Joe Laynpray comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Laynpray winning every round here. Surely the decision will go his way and he'll pick up a well deserved decision victory. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 24:30
Judge Frank Antenori scores the fight 24:30
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 24:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Joe Laynpray!
Joe Laynpray took to the mic after the fight and begged the organizational hierarchy for a shot at the title.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
74%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Miles Kinney (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Dwight Howard (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Kinney comes to the cage accompanied by Eminem - Till I Collapse. Howard is bouncing up and down as he enters the arena, backed by superman theme. Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Kinney
vs
Howard

225 cm
18
300 lbs
1 - 2 - 0

210 cm
25
266 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Good chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Counter striker
Tends to cut

Punishment Nutrition - All 159Q products now $75
KINGDOM

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the super heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Miles Kinney!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Dwight Howard!
The judges for this bout are , Jack Bonds and Frank Antenori.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Howard tries a head kick but it misses.
Howard throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Howard throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Howard blocks a head kick by Kinney.
No joy there for Kinney, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Kinney lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.

It looks like Dwight Howard has been cut.

Howard has Kinney up against the cage in a clinch.
Howard tries to circle away but Kinney has him pinned against the cage.

Kinney pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Kinney doesn't manage to clinch there - Howard circles away.
Howard throws a head kick that misses.
Howard connects with a right hand. Kinney shakes it off.

It looks like Miles Kinney has been cut.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.

Kinney drives through with a takedown into guard.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
Howard wants to sweep but no luck.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Howard is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Kinney is aware though and is defending well.
Howard manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Kinney manages to get himself to full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Kinney wants to stand but Howard is controlling the position.
Howard looking to sit in guard and control but Kinney gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.
Kinney would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard.
Howard wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Kinney won't allow Howard to sweep him here.

Howard 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! Kinney rolls with it to try and escape but Howard cranks on the arm and Kinney is forced to tap out! This one is aaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:32 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Dwight Howard!
Dwight Howard gave a mention to Punishment Nutrition - All 159Q products now $75 in his post fight interview. That will please them (and hopefully generate some sales).

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
48%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Billy Bomber (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Maximo Gonzalo (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Bomber
vs
Gonzalo

180 cm
22
170 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

188 cm
22
169 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Counter striker
Granite chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Counter striker
Determined

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 Los Angeles, Billy Bomber!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Maximo Gonzalo!
The judges for this bout are , Jack Bonds and Don Winkell.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Gonzalo closes the distance and scores a nice trip takedown into half guard. Bomber did well to prevent Gonzalo getting side control.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.

Bomber is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Gonzalo pulls his head out easily.

Bomber is defending against the submission attempts here by Gonzalo.
Gonzalo seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Bomber does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
Gonzalo seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.

Bomber looking for submissions off his back.

Bomber is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Gonzalo pulls his head out easily.

Bomber with the active half guard here but Gonzalo passes nicely into side control.

Gonzalo looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.

Gonzalo working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Gonzalo looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Bomber tries to improve position but can't.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Bomber manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.

Bomber is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Gonzalo pulls his head out easily.
Bomber is breathing heavily.

Bomber looking for submissions from an awkward position here.

The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Gonzalo is looking for a kimura here.

Gonzalo is working for a kimura but Bomber is defending it quite comfortably.
Gonzalo sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Bomber defending well though.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Gonzalo seems to be working for a kimura but Bomber defends the submission attempt.
Gonzalo thows a huge punch but Bomber dodges it nicely.
Gonzalo uses his free foot to push down on Bomber's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Bomber.
Bomber avoids a series of strikes thrown by Gonzalo.
Bomber is squirming around, avoiding Gonzalo's attempts to control the action.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Gonzalo with good strikes from the mount here!

Gonzalo is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Bomber can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Gonzalo stands up from mount. Strange move.
Bomber with a lazy takedown attempt
and Gonzalo counters with a leg kick.

Gonzalo closes the distance and gets a double leg, slamming Bomber to the mat! Bomber manages to get full guard.
Gonzalo trying to control but Bomber is working from the bottom.

Bomber working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Gonzalo doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Gonzalo manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Gonzalo pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Bomber is keeping the position for now.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Bomber looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Gonzalo must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Gonzalo accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Gonzalo working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.

Bomber throws his legs up looking to secure a triangle. Oh, that looks pretty tight, I gotta say! Gonzalo escapes and throws Bomber's legs to the side, diving into side control!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Bomber being controlled for a moment.
Bomber tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Gonzalo trying to control the action but Bomber is working from the bottom.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Maximo Gonzalo dominated that round.
The corners get their ten second warning. Both fighters stand from their stools and stare eachother down, ready to get back to the action.

Gonzalo changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Bomber looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Gonzalo working the body and head with strikes.

Gonzalo is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Bomber knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Both fighters really going for it on the ground here!
Bomber is trying to get back to half guard. He's pushing on Gonzalo's leg. He's managed it. Nice work.

Bomber looking for a kimura from the bottom but Gonzalo passes into side control!

Gonzalo tries for a kimura but Bomber is defending well.

Gonzalo decides to stand up, so the ref orders Bomber to his feet.

That's one minute gone in the round.

A momentary lapse in concentration from Bomber enables Gonzalo to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Bomber manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Gonzalo trying to control but Bomber is working from the bottom.
Gonzalo postures up in Bomber's guard and throws a big left but Bomber blocks it.
Gonzalo wants to control from the top but Bomber keeps moving.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
Gonzalo tries to free his leg and advance position but Bomber is retaining full guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Gonzalo drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Gonzalo jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.

Bomber has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Gonzalo can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Bomber has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Gonzalo has passed into side control.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Bomber tries to buck Gonzalo off but Gonzalo is having none of it.

Gonzalo tries for a kimura but Bomber is defending well.

Gonzalo decides to stand back up.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Gonzalo fails miserably with a takedown attempt.
Bomber misses with a takedown

and Gonzalo moves into the clinch.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Bomber manages to pull guard. Let's see whether he can land a sub off his back.
Gonzalo trying to control but Bomber is working from the bottom.

Bomber had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Gonzalo defends it easily.
Gonzalo working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Bomber's head.

Gonzalo drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Gonzalo jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

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

Bomber looking for a guillotine here but Gonzalo defends easily.
Gonzalo forces his way into half guard.
Gonzalo passes the half guard and he's now in mount! Big trouble for Bomber!
Bomber is looking to get to half guard.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Gonzalo is going oldschool here, as he tries to force Bomber to tap using a forearm choke. This isn't 1993 though, so Bomber shrugs it off.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Maximo Gonzalo showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. Let's hear some noise people - this is the final round!

Bomber fails with the takedown

and Gonzalo decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Bomber's guard.
Gonzalo engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.

Bomber had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Gonzalo defends it easily.
Gonzalo trying to control but Bomber is working from the bottom.

Bomber looking for a guillotine here but Gonzalo defends easily.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Gonzalo throwing strikes but missing.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Gonzalo trying to control but Bomber is working from the bottom.
Gonzalo controls from within his opponent's guard.

Bomber throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Gonzalo tries to free his leg and advance position but Bomber is retaining full guard.
Gonzalo engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters - he looks like he's thinking about a standup.

Gonzalo gets to his feet - Bomber follows without any prompting.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Gonzalo.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Bomber avoids a punch combination nicely.
Bomber with a poor takedown

and Gonzalo counters with a takedown into side control.
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!
Bomber is positioning himself to get back to half guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Gonzalo is putting a hurting on Bomber here, landing some big shots from side control.
Bomber is being controlled here.
Bomber manages to work his way to half guard, despite Gonzalo's best efforts.

Gonzalo seems to be looking for submissions.
Gonzalo not doing much here.

Bomber is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Gonzalo pulls his head out easily.

Gonzalo seems to be looking for submissions.

Gonzalo is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Bomber has managed to free his arm - good work.
Gonzalo is keen to just control but Bomber is a slippery customer.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gonzalo is in a good position here but he's just trying to control... And he's not even managing to do that successfully.

Gonzalo seems to be working for a kimura but Bomber defends the submission attempt.

Gonzalo is looking for a kimura but Bomber is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Gonzalo to get the leverage.
Bomber moves into full guard.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.

Bomber is looking for a triangle but Gonzalo pushes his legs off easily.
Gonzalo scoring with some ground and pound.
Maximo Gonzalo is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Gonzalo wants to control from the top but Bomber keeps moving.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Gonzalo controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.

Bomber is active off his back here, looking for submissions.

And that's the end of the fight!
Maximo Gonzalo comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Gonzalo has outworked and out performed his opponent in all aspects of the game today. He was simply too good and the decision should be no more than a formality. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Percy O'Donnell scores the fight 27:30
Judge Jack Bonds scores the fight 27:30
Judge Don Winkell scores the fight 27:30

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

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
78%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Eric Ford (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Erik Josten (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Ford's entrance music is For What It's Worth. A fine choice. Josten comes into a darkened arena with his song building. Never To Late kicks in, the lights come on and the crowd goes wild! What a showman! Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Ford
vs
Josten

180 cm
29
210 lbs
10 - 6 - 0

182 cm
20
215 lbs
4 - 1 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Excellent boxer
Experienced

BJJ Blue Belt
Good kicks
Determined

Real Fighters Nutrition

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 10 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Eric Ford!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Erik Josten!
The judges for this bout are Jack Bonds, Don Winkell and Frank Antenori.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Ford shoots for a takedown but Josten saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Ford lands a nice shot to the body.
Josten throws a head kick but Ford moves out of range.
Josten lands with a nice combination. Ford backs away looking to recover.
Josten keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Josten misses with an uppercut.
Ford looks to land a combination but Josten avoids it well.
Ford moves out of range of the body kick.
Ford swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Ford shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Ford tries for a takedown but Josten sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Eric Ford. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Josten is looking to land body kicks.
Josten stuffs the takedown.
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!
Ford fails to land the takedown.
Ford on the wrong end of a nice low kick. He's acting like it's no big deal but he doesn't want to take many more of those.
Ford misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Ford takes a swing at Josten's ribcage but misses.
Ford shoots for a takedown but Josten saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Josten sizes up Ford with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Josten dips to his left and cracks Ford with an uppercut!
Ford chopped to the floor by a nice leg kick but he springs right back up before Josten can pounce on him.
Ford is breathing heavily.

Josten clinches up against the cage.
Josten throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Fords head.
Josten crunches a lovely knee into Ford's ribcage.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Josten lands a knee to the head.
A right hand to the body from Josten.
Josten is trying to wear down his opponent with knees to the body.

Josten drops Ford with a big knee straight up the middle! Ford is covering up against the cage but manages to escape and gets back to his feet!

Ford is rocked!
Josten buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Oh Ford is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Josten rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Ford moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Erik Josten is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Josten fakes the leg kick and throws a superman punch. It's knocked Ford out cold! Brutal finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:51 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Superman Punch). Erik Josten!
Erik Josten took his opportunity to call for a title shot in his post fight interview.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
100%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Ray Cold (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Bryan Fury (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Cold comes into the arena with 50 Cent - God Gave Me Style blaring out of the sound system. Fury has chosen Beast ! as his entrance music, which hasn't gone down very well with the crowd. Both fighters really staring each other down here, as Bryan Fury enters the cage!

Cold
vs
Fury

175 cm
26
152 lbs
4 - 1 - 0

172 cm
25
145 lbs
4 - 2 - 0

Decent wrestler
Solid boxing
Granite chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 4 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Ray Cold!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Bryan Fury!
The judges for this bout are Frank Antenori, and Timothy Bukovac.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Fury swings widly with a right hand

and Cold counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Cold.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
Fury can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Cold controls the pace.
Fury is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.

Fury scrambles and gets back to his feet.
Fury throws a right hand that misses

and Cold counters with a shoot takedown. Fury fights it but they end up in 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!
Cold wants to pass the guard but Fury is keeping the position.
Cold has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.
Cold with a flurry of punches that miss.
Fury is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cold is working Fury over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Cold prevents Fury from getting back to his feet.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Cold accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Both fighters really going for it on the ground here!
Fury working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Cold.
Fury is looking to stand up but Cold isn't so interested in that idea.
Fury looks gassed!
Cold controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Cold's ground tactics aren't going to win him many fans. Let's hope he's got fireworks for us if he gets back to his feet because he's not doing much on the ground.
Fury is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.

The ref stands the fighters back up because Ray Cold just wasn't active enough.
Fury misses with a hook

and Cold counters by moving into the clinch. Good anticipation by Cold.
Fury is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.
Cold is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Fury gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.

Cold gets double underhooks and manages to take the fight to the ground.
Cold stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Fury swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Cold working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Cold stops Fury from standing up.
Cold is stalling in the full guard.
Cold slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Fury is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Cold asserts his dominance and retains side control.
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!
Cold working the ground and pound.
Cold looks up at the clock and then as Fury takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Cold smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
Fury tries to escape but Cold is in control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Cold landing with strikes to the head and body from side control.
You can see the frustration on Fury's face as Cold controls the position.
Cold has controlled the position for a good 20 seconds, which will no doubt be starting to frustrate his opponent.
Cold working away diligently from side control. Landing strikes effectively there - that will score him some points on the judges scorecards.
Fury is not in a great position here, taking some shots.
A lull in the action here as Cold stalls from top position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Fury is working hard to escape and get back to his feet. After a battle for position, Cold asserts his dominance and retains side control.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.
Cold controlling the position from side mount.

We're going to have a standup here because Ray Cold wasn't active enough for the referee's liking.
Fury misses with an uppercut

and Cold counters with a takedown into side control.
Cold just content to control the position.
Cold cracks Fury with a big elbow.
Fury wants to escape from the position here - easier said than done!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Fury trying to remain calm as Cold controls from the top position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Cold creates a bit of distance and throws down some hard shots.
Cold landing a few strikes.
Fury is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Cold has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Cold slows the pace down.
Fury stops Cold from passing to mount.
You can see the frustration on Fury's face as Cold controls the position.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
Cold scores with a couple of short elbows.
A lull in the action here as Cold stalls from top position.
Fury taking punishment in the form of punches.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ray Cold dominated that round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.

Fury swings widly with a right hand

and Cold counters by moving into the clinch. Good anticipation by Cold.
Fury is trying to push Cold away but Cold has him pressed against the cage, so he's going nowhere.
Cold drops down looking for an ankle pick but Fury pulls his leg out and moves away.

Fury gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Cold to score an easy takedown into full guard.
Fury is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Fury keeping full guard, as Cold tries to pass.
Cold throws a big right hand that misses.
Cold in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Cold prevents Fury from getting back to his feet.
Fury is using up a lot of energy trying to get back to his feet. Perhaps he should improve his position first.
Cold pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Fury is keeping the position for now.
Fury is breathing heavily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Cold prevents Fury from getting back to his feet.
Cold throwing strikes but missing.
Fury is looking to stand up but Cold isn't so interested in that idea.
Cold trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Fury wants to stand but Cold is controlling the position.
Fury can't keep his opponent in guard - Cold advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Cold slows the pace down in half guard.
Cold is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Cold keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.
Cold is pressing down on Fury's thigh, looking to free his foot. Fury is holding on for now.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Cold takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Cold seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
Cold stops Fury from getting back to his feet.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Cold controlling the action here.
Cold prevents Fury from standing back up.
Cold working over Fury with some ground and pound. Fury looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Cold seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Cold controlling the action here.
Cold trying to pass the guard but Fury defending well.
Cold seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Cold landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Cold with a momentary lay and pray from half guard.
Cold working the head and body with strikes.
Still in half guard, Cold seems content to control.
Ray Cold overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Fury is trying to stand back up but Cold is controlling him
Well, if Cold 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.
Cold scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Fury tries to kick Cold off but Cold keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.
Cold seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Cold is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Fury won't allow Cold to pass to mount.
Cold is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Fury can do to turn this around?

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Fury has hold of Cold's hands but Cold slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Cold landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Cold trying to control the pace.
Fury wants to get back to his feet.
Cold drops an elbow to the side of Fury's head.
Cold wants to pass the guard but Fury is defending well.
Cold seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Ground and pound from Cold.
Cold wants to free his trapped foot but Fury is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Nice strikes from Cold there.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Fury wants to get back to his feet.
Cold sitting and controlling from the half guard.
Cold scoring with strikes to the body and head.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ray Cold dominated that second round.
That's time! Back to the action! This is the final round!

Fury rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Cold counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.

Cold shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
Cold works his way into full mount!
Fury wants to use the cage to get back to his feet here.
Cold landing punches.
Cold pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Fury trying desperately to get to his feet.
Cold scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Fury?
Fury is bucking up trying to escape but Cold cracks him with another couple of good strikes.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Cold with shots to the head and body - Fury looks very uncomfortable down there.
Fury takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Cold breaks from Fury's wrist control and lands an elbow.

Fury is rocked!

That's one minute gone in the round.
Cold takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
Fury is still in real trouble! Can Cold finish him?
Cold is in the full mount, landing strikes.
Cold content just to control the position here.
Cold postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Fury looks a forlorn figure.
Cold tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
Fury seems to have recovered his senses.
Cold connects with a couple of good shots from mount.
Fury is trying to get to the cage to help him get back to his feet.
Cold tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Fury wants to use the cage to get back to his feet here.
Fury in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
Cold is still in mount, landing shots to his trapped opponent. Fury can't stay in a position like this for much longer.
Cold working the ground and pound effectively.
Cold content just to control the position here.
Fury is really trying hard to get back to his feet.
Cold pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Fury in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Fury is trying to stand.
Cold looking to finish Fury with some ground and pound. This is bad for Fury!
Cold controlling from mount.
Cold working away from the top, dropping strikes.
Cold tucks in and makes sure he doesn't lose the dominant position.
Cold landing shots from mount.
Fury is in a horrible position here. Cold smacks him with another shot as he tries to escape the position.
Cold content just to control the position here.
Bryan Fury has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Cold unloading with bombs!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Fury in a bad spot here, taking shots to the head.
Fury squirming around on the bottom, looking to escape.
Cold lands with some strikes.
Cold punishing his opponent with strikes.
Cold lands a big shot there that rocks Fury but he's holding on and managing to survive for now.
Cold lands a big shot to the head and Fury winces in pain. He's tapped out due to strikes!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:45 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Strikes). Ray Cold!
Ray Cold took to the mic in his post fight interview and said 'All i have to say im glad all my hard work paiad off , 1st I thank god and Jesus Christ my lord . my family and my coaches and training partners and Last but not east my manager. Thank u all'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
75%

Main event

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Artem Ivanov (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Rod Melendez (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Ivanov's ring entrance music is that housewives' favourite, Mad World. Melendez comes into a darkened arena with his song building. Bad Company kicks in, the lights come on and the crowd goes wild! What a showman! Artem Ivanov is staring across the cage at his opponent, tweaking his nipples... Tweaking his own nipples that is.

Ivanov
vs
Melendez

175 cm
29
150 lbs
9 - 3 - 0

170 cm
28
145 lbs
4 - 5 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Brawler
Good chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Decent boxing
Determined

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 9 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Artem Ivanov!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Rod Melendez!
The judges for this bout are Don Winkell, Frank Antenori and Timothy Bukovac.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Ivanov shoots and misses

and Melendez counters with a takedown into side control.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.
Ivanov stuck in half guard on the bottom here.
Ivanov is trying to control Melendez's posture but Melendez avoids it.
Ivanov prevents Melendez from improving position.
Ivanov tries to get back to half guard but can't.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Melendez in the domination position with Ivanov hanging on.
Ivanov has controlled the position for a good 20 seconds, which will no doubt be starting to frustrate his opponent.
Ivanov gets back to half guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ivanov is controlling Melendez's position as best he can from this difficult position.

We're going to have a standup here because Artem Ivanov wasn't active enough for the referee's liking.
Ivanov scores with a jab. Melendez acknowledges it with a nod of the head.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up, due to lack of activity on the part of Artem Ivanov.
Ivanov is trying hard to land a takedown here. Melendez sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Ivanov shoots in for a double leg but Melendez sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Artem Ivanov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Ivanov smiles there as he lands a nice right hand right on the button.
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!
Melendez takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Ivanov shoots in looking for a takedown. Melendez tries to sprawl out of it but Ivanov keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Melendez manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Melendez defending well as Ivanov loads up on a big left hand.
Ivanov fails with a takedown attempt.
Ivanov fails to land the takedown.
Melendez cracks the inside of Ivanov's front leg.
Melendez stuffs the takedown.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Melendez stalks Ivanov and leaps in with a furious combination of punches. Uppercuts and crosses smash into Ivanov's face. Ivanov staggers backwards, shaken.
Ivanov has a takedown stuffed.
Ivanov tries to score a power double leg takedown but Melendez sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Ivanov somewhat.
Melendez tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Ivanov paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Melendez misses with a wild combination.
Ivanov fails with a takedown attempt.
The fighters are starting to get sweaty, which will make takedowns a bit more tricky.
Ivanov fails with a takedown attempt.
Melendez looks to land a combination. Ivanov sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Melendez slips a straight right by Ivanov.
Ivanov will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Ivanov shoots in looking for a takedown but Melendez manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Ivanov's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.

Melendez shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Ivanov is trying to defend but Melendez finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Ivanov wants to get back to full guard.
Melendez is thwarting Ivanov's attempts to control the position.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Melendez tries to pass the half guard into mount. Ivanov knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Ivanov is looking to control Melendez's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Ivanov avoid being mounted?
Ivanov is doing well to control the position and prevent Melendez from advancing to side control.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Artem Ivanov will probably get the nod.
That's time! Ivanov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.

Melendez closes the distance looking to clinch
and Ivanov counters with a straight right hand.
Ivanov shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Melendez but Melendez pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Melendez is looking to take this fight into the clinch.
Artem Ivanov seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Melendez dives in and grabs Ivanov's left leg, looking for a takedown. Ivanov pushes down on Melendez's head and hops out.
Artem Ivanov is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Ivanov looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Ivanov shoots in for a double leg but Melendez sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Artem Ivanov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Melendez walks into a stiff left hand from Ivanov.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Melendez is looking to clinch.
Melendez looks to land a combination. Ivanov sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.
Ivanov changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Melendez tries to avoid it but Ivanov manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Melendez to the ground. Melendez escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ivanov misses with a takedown attempt

and Melendez counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Melendez prevents Ivanov from improving his position.
Ivanov is positioning himself well to prevent Melendez advancing to mount.
Melendez missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Melendez working over Ivanov with some ground and pound. Ivanov looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Ivanov is doing well to avoid being mounted. He's controlling the position at the moment.
Ivanov gets full guard.
Ivanov is adopting a defensive guard.
Melendez must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Ivanov lands a beautiful switch and he's in full mount! That could spell trouble for Melendez!

Ivanov looking to secure an arm triangle but Melendez defends it well.

Ivanov looking to secure an arm triangle but Melendez defends it well.
Ivanov raining down shots from the mount!

Ivanov is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Melendez can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Ivanov controlling the position easily from mount.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Ivanov lands a nice shot to the head.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Ivanov trying to control but he's not successful this time.

Ivanov working to secure an arm triangle but it's not happening for him just yet.

Ivanov looking for a guillotine from mount but Melendez is having none of it.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Ivanov raining down hammerfists from mount.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Ivanov looks like he's working for a submission but he's not found anything just yet.
Ivanov controlling the pace for now.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Artem Ivanov dominated that second round.
That's time! Back to the action! And we move into the final round!

Ivanov shoots in looking for a takedown. Melendez tries to sprawl out of it but Ivanov keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Melendez manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Melendez rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Ivanov moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Ivanov changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Melendez tries to avoid it but Ivanov manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Melendez to the ground. Melendez escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Ivanov throws a combination. Melendez tries to block but a couple of punches get through.
Ivanov shoots in for a takedown but Melendez shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Artem Ivanov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Ivanov shoots and misses
and Melendez makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Melendez dips down and scores with a jab to the body.

Melendez gets the takedown into side control.
Ivanov is trying to get back to half guard.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
You can see the frustration on Ivanov's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Artem Ivanov overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Ivanov throws Melendez to one side and escapes!
Melendez fails to land with a series of punches.
Artem Ivanov is winning the standup battle so far.
Horrible takedown by Ivanov or perhaps it was just good defense by Melendez which made him look bad.
Melendez leaves Ivanov with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Melendez is looking to clinch but Ivanov is avoiding it.
Ivanov shoots in looking for a takedown but Melendez manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Ivanov's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Ivanov.
Ivanov waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Melendez.
Melendez feints a jab promting Ivanov to slip. Melendez then demonstrates his capabilities by jabbing again. Ivanov slips again and ducks right into an uppercut.
Ivanov shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Melendez sprawls well. Melendez wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Ivanov gets slowly back to his feet.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Melendez has a takedown stuffed.
Ivanov closes this distance looking for a takedown but Melendez circles away.
A punch combination from Melendez misses.
Ivanov shoots in but doesn't get the takedown
and Melendez counters with a straight punch to the midsection.
Melendez tries to clinch but is not successful on this occasion.
Ivanov misses with a takedown attempt - Melendez sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Nice sprawl there from Melendez as Ivanov shoots in.
Ivanov lands a jab to the nose.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Melendez looking to land some kicks to the body here.

Melendez gets caught flat footed, as Ivanov shoots in with a quick takedown into guard.
Ivanov passes easily into side control. Nice work.

Ivanov looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Melendez can't do much from the bottom here.
A lull in the action here as Ivanov stalls from top position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Ivanov is looking to take a break and control but Melendez is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Artem Ivanov is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.

Ivanov wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Melendez, who protects the arm well.
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!

Ivanov is in a dominant position here, looking for a kimura. Melendez looks calm but he's in trouble here. Ivanov gets his leg over his opponent's head and yanks on the arm. Melendez is tapping like a morse code operator on the titanic! SOS! SOS! Ivanov lets go of the hold and Melendez can pop his arm back in it's socket.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:53 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Artem Ivanov!
A victorious Artem Ivanov thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.