MZFT 5 - Battle of Grit PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Juan DeMarco (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Pablo Escobar (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). We have two fighters making their debuts here, so let's see who comes out of this one with their first professional victory.

DeMarco
vs
Escobar

190 cm
18
244 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

192 cm
18
250 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Solid boxing
Inexperienced

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Juan DeMarco!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Pablo Escobar!
The judges for this bout are Taro Takaoka, Tatsuya Matsuyama and Sosuke Kotani.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
DeMarco loads up on a big right hand but Escobar slips the punch.
Escobar moves into range and lands a nice leg kick.
Donk. DeMarco catches Escobar right on the button with a cross.
DeMarco throws a hook to the side of Escobar's head but Escobar sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Escobar throws a sloppy head kick and DeMarco moves out of range easily.
DeMarco could do with losing a few pounds - he looks very soft around the mid section, to put it politely.
DeMarco fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Escobar manages to avoid it.
Escobar buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Escobar fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt DeMarco.
DeMarco has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Escobar.
Escobar lands a nice leg kick that just misses DeMarco's sensitive parts.
DeMarco is breathing heavily.
Escobar lands with a kick to the temple. DeMarco shrugs as if to say "is that all you've got?"
DeMarco wants to stay close but Escobar steps back to make room for something. DeMarco seems frozen to the spot and bam! huge swing of the leg from Escobar and DeMarco drops like he has been shot! A huge head kick and it's all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:33 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Head Kick). Pablo Escobar!

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 middleweight MMA rules bout between Bob Smokers (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jeannot Chong Starbowsky Ii (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Chong Starbowsky Ii has chosen "SCIENCE OF THE TRIFE" as his entrance music, which hasn't gone down very well with the crowd. Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Smokers
vs
Chong Starbowsky Ii

180 cm
25
190 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

175 cm
21
186 lbs
4 - 11 - 0

Good takedowns
Brawler
Big heart

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Knockout power

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 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 Tokyo, Bob Smokers!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 11 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Jeannot Chong Starbowsky Ii!
The judges for this bout are Ren Mimura, Yuuki Gou and Shigeki Fujiwara.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Smokers shoots in looking for a takedown but Chong Starbowsky Ii manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Smokers's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.

Chong Starbowsky Ii gets a clinch.
Smokers has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Chong Starbowsky Ii avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.
Smokers goes for a takedown in the clinch but Chong Starbowsky Ii prevents it.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Bob Smokers. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Smokers is looking for a takedown.

Chong Starbowsky Ii manages to break the clinch.

Chong Starbowsky Ii decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Chong Starbowsky Ii missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.

Chong Starbowsky Ii is looking for a kimura here.
Smokers wants to sweep but Chong Starbowsky Ii has passed to side control!
Chong Starbowsky Ii lands an elbow.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Chong Starbowsky Ii tries for a kimura but Smokers is defending well.

Chong Starbowsky Ii tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Smokers regains half guard.
Smokers wants to improve his position but Chong Starbowsky Ii is controlling well.
Chong Starbowsky Ii trying to control from half guard but Smokers is working away.
Chong Starbowsky Ii wants to stand up but Smokers is controlling the position.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Smokers slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Chong Starbowsky Ii trying to control but Smokers is working from the bottom.
Smokers controls Chong Starbowsky Ii momentarily but Chong Starbowsky Ii frees himself.
Chong Starbowsky Ii trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Chong Starbowsky Ii slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.
Chong Starbowsky Ii really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Smokers. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Smokers has a closed guard, preventing Chong Starbowsky Ii from standing up.

Chong Starbowsky Ii drops back, looking for a kneebar! Smokers looks panicked! The fighters roll across the mat, one looking to finish, one looking to escape. Smokers looks to have wriggled free... Yes, he's got his leg free and he's dived into side control! Good work there from Smokers!

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Chong Starbowsky Ii is not content to let Smokers control the position.
Smokers is working Chong Starbowsky Ii over with some ground and pound from side control.
Smokers connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Chong Starbowsky Ii some visible discomfort.

Smokers thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Smokers in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Smokers tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Smokers has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Smokers working the head with strikes.
Smokers scoring with punches from side control.
Smokers tries to move into full mount but can't pass Chong Starbowsky Ii's legs.
Smokers is breathing heavily.
Smokers creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Chong Starbowsky Ii sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.

Smokers is trying to get an arm triangle but Chong Starbowsky Ii is defending well.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Smokers misses with an attempted head punch from side control.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Smokers lands a decent elbow from side control.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Chong Starbowsky Ii leaves Smokers with his face pressed against the mat as he sprawls beautifully, defending against a solid takedown attempt.
Chong Starbowsky Ii lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.

Chong Starbowsky Ii clinches.
Chong Starbowsky Ii drops to a knee looking for a takedown but Smokers gets the underhooks and prevents it.
Chong Starbowsky Ii drops down looking for an ankle pick but Smokers pulls his leg out and moves away.
Chong Starbowsky Ii throws a sloppy head kick and Smokers moves out of range easily.
Chong Starbowsky Ii tries to close the distance and clinch up against the ropes but Smokers paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Chong Starbowsky Ii does a little shimmy and throws a leg kick. The leg kick missed by a considerable margin though, making him look a little bit silly for doing the shimmy.

Smokers shoots in and bounces Chong Starbowsky Ii off the ropes to secure the takedown into guard.
Smokers loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Chong Starbowsky Ii trying to punch from his back but it's not doing any damage.
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.
Chong Starbowsky Ii wants to get back to his feet but Smokers 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.
Chong Starbowsky Ii being controlled here, momentarily.
Smokers working some strikes from top position.

Smokers drops back looking for a leg! Chong Starbowsky Ii is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Chong Starbowsky Ii manages to kick Smokers off! Smokers jumps back into Chong Starbowsky Ii's guard.
Smokers working some strikes from top position.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Smokers keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Chong Starbowsky Ii's head.
Chong Starbowsky Ii wants to stand and escape but Smokers is having none of it.
Smokers trying to control the position from guard on top but Chong Starbowsky Ii is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Bob Smokers overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.

Smokers 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.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Smokers throwing strikes from guard but Chong Starbowsky Ii blocks nicely.
Smokers throws a big elbow that misses.
Chong Starbowsky Ii preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Chong Starbowsky Ii wants to get back to his feet but Smokers is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Smokers is looking to work some ground and pound but Chong Starbowsky Ii has wrist control.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Smokers prevents Chong Starbowsky Ii from getting back to his feet.
Smokers keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Chong Starbowsky Ii's head.
Smokers throwing strikes but missing.
Smokers trying to control but Chong Starbowsky Ii is working from the bottom.
Smokers is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Smokers prevents Chong Starbowsky Ii from getting back to his feet.
Smokers with a flurry of punches that miss.
Chong Starbowsky Ii controlling Smokers's posture.
Smokers keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Chong Starbowsky Ii's head.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Smokers is looking to work some ground and pound but Chong Starbowsky Ii has wrist control.
Chong Starbowsky Ii looking to control.
Smokers content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Smokers lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Smokers trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Smokers trying to control the position from guard on top but Chong Starbowsky Ii is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Smokers postures up in Chong Starbowsky Ii's guard and throws a big left but Chong Starbowsky Ii blocks it.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Smokers trying to control but Chong Starbowsky Ii is working from the bottom.
Smokers is fighting to break Chong Starbowsky Ii's control of his arms but Chong Starbowsky Ii is doing a good job of controlling the position at the moment.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Bob Smokers dominated that second round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.

Smokers gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Smokers manages to land a sweep and now he's in mount on top!

Smokers swings around for an armbar but it's a sloppy attempt and Chong Starbowsky Ii is now in Smokers's guard. A big mistake from Smokers there, giving up the dominant position!
Chong Starbowsky Ii postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.

Smokers escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Chong Starbowsky Ii gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Chong Starbowsky Ii tries to free his leg and advance position but Smokers is retaining full guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Smokers is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Chong Starbowsky Ii scoring with some ground and pound.
Chong Starbowsky Ii throwing strikes from guard but Smokers blocks nicely.
Chong Starbowsky Ii would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard.
Smokers bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Chong Starbowsky Ii's guard.
Smokers in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Smokers is working Chong Starbowsky Ii over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Chong Starbowsky Ii working a defensive guard here.

Smokers drops back, looking for a kneebar! Chong Starbowsky Ii looks panicked! The fighters roll across the mat, one looking to finish, one looking to escape. Chong Starbowsky Ii looks to have wriggled free... Yes, he's got his leg free and he's dived into side control! Good work there from Chong Starbowsky Ii!

Chong Starbowsky Ii wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Smokers, who protects the arm well.

Chong Starbowsky Ii is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Smokers is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Smokers is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Chong Starbowsky Ii connects with a nice short shot to Smokers's temple.
Chong Starbowsky Ii throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Chong Starbowsky Ii throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Smokers is trying to maintain the position but Chong Starbowsky Ii is very close to passing his half guard.
Chong Starbowsky Ii is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Smokers tries to roll over but Chong Starbowsky Ii keeps him under control.
Chong Starbowsky Ii lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Smokers is refusing to be controlled, as Chong Starbowsky Ii sits in half guard.
Chong Starbowsky Ii throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Smokers has been looking to land a fair amount of strikes on the ground. He might be looking to soften his opponent up in order to work for a submission.
Chong Starbowsky Ii missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Chong Starbowsky Ii tries to stand but his hand is stuck under Smokers.
Smokers is trying to maintain the position but Chong Starbowsky Ii is very close to passing his half guard.

Smokers looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Smokers wants to improve his position but Chong Starbowsky Ii is controlling well.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jeannot Chong Starbowsky Ii really 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.

Chong Starbowsky Ii throws a sloppy head kick and Smokers moves out of range easily.
Chong Starbowsky Ii rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Smokers moves out of range and avoids them all easily.
Jeannot Chong Starbowsky Ii seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Smokers fails to land the takedown.
Smokers shoots in but no luck this time.
Chong Starbowsky Ii moves in looking to clinch but Smokers pushes him off.
Chong Starbowsky Ii tries to clinch but Smokers moves out of range.

Smokers shoots in and bounces Chong Starbowsky Ii off the ropes to secure the takedown into guard.
Smokers wants to control from the top but Chong Starbowsky Ii keeps moving.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Smokers wants to pass the guard but Chong Starbowsky Ii is keeping the position.
Smokers trying to control but Chong Starbowsky Ii is working from the bottom.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Smokers is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Smokers stops Chong Starbowsky Ii from standing up.
Chong Starbowsky Ii trying to control the position.

The ref stands the fighters back up because Bob Smokers just wasn't active enough.
Chong Starbowsky Ii fakes a couple of low kicks, before throwing one on the third attempt. It connects and Smokers has to reset his feet before getting ready to engage.
Chong Starbowsky Ii tries to clinch but Smokers moves out of range.
That's a knee to de groin and it's over and out! Smokers crumples to the ground after an illegal strike from Chong Starbowsky Ii - the referee stops the clock and Smokers gets 5 minutes to recover from that one. "I'm sorry" says Chong Starbowsky Ii. Smokers manages to get back to his feet and the fight resumes.

Chong Starbowsky Ii moves into the clinch successfully.

Chong Starbowsky Ii's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Chong Starbowsky Ii throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Chong Starbowsky Ii will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Smokers darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Chong Starbowsky Ii blocking the ground and pound attempt from Smokers.

Chong Starbowsky Ii is defending against the submission attempts here by Smokers.
Smokers throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Smokers looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.

Smokers seems to be looking for submissions.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Smokers is thwarting Chong Starbowsky Ii's attempts to control the position.
Smokers wants to pass the guard but Chong Starbowsky Ii is defending well.
Chong Starbowsky Ii blocking the ground and pound attempt from Smokers.
Smokers landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Chong Starbowsky Ii regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Smokers.
Chong Starbowsky Ii wants to stand up but Smokers is controlling him.
Smokers wants to control from the top but Chong Starbowsky Ii keeps moving.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Smokers postures up.
Smokers lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
Chong Starbowsky Ii wants to stand up but Smokers is controlling him.
Smokers wants to control from the top but Chong Starbowsky Ii keeps moving.
Smokers postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Chong Starbowsky Ii keeping moving, preventing Smokers from controlling successfully.
Chong Starbowsky Ii trying to control the position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Bob Smokers had his way with Jeannot Chong Starbowsky Ii in that round.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin! This is the final round!

Smokers blocks a head kick by Chong Starbowsky Ii.
Smokers shoots for a takedown but Chong Starbowsky Ii saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.
Smokers shoots in and drives through. Chong Starbowsky Ii sprawls well.

Chong Starbowsky Ii closes the distance and clinches.
Chong Starbowsky Ii 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.
Chong Starbowsky Ii is looking for a takedown up against the ropes. Smokers gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.

Chong Starbowsky Ii is working on a single leg takedown against the ropes. Smokers can't fight it off and eventually Chong Starbowsky Ii manages to take the fight to the floor. Smokers looks annoyed but at least he's managed to land in guard.

Smokers has thrown up a leg looking for a triangle. Chong Starbowsky Ii doesn't defend quickly enough and Smokers has managed to lock this one up! Can Chong Starbowsky Ii escape?! NO! He's tapping out! Damn, that was a quick submission - congrats to Smokers on a fantastic submission victory.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:47 of round 5, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Bob Smokers!
After winning the bout, Bob Smokers thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.

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 Johnny Gobert (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Mamed Khalidov (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Khalidov has chosen Eto Kavkaz as his entrance music. We have two fighters making their debuts here, so let's see who comes out of this one with their first professional victory.

Gobert
vs
Khalidov

191 cm
25
172 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

182 cm
25
180 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Brawler
Cuts easily

Good takedowns
Brawler
Determined

FinnFighter Nutrition (Five 160Q supps!)

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 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Johnny Gobert!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Mamed Khalidov!
The judges for this bout are Shigeki Sano, Yuuki Gou and Tatsuya Matsuyama.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Khalidov rushes Gobert and pushes him back against the ropes in a clinch.

Gobert pulls Khalidov into guard.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.

Gobert escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Khalidov gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Khalidov is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Khalidov trying to control the position from guard on top but Gobert is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Khalidov wants to get up but he can't break Gobert's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.
Gobert looking to control.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Khalidov throws an elbow that misses. Gobert uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Khalidov's guard. Nice move by Gobert!

Khalidov looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Khalidov wants to stand and escape but Gobert is having none of it.
Gobert trying to control the position from guard on top but Khalidov is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Gobert looking to pass the guard.
Khalidov keeping moving, preventing Gobert from controlling successfully.
Gobert pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Khalidov is keeping the position for now.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Gobert wants to control from the top but Khalidov keeps moving.

Johnny Gobert has forced the referee to step in and bring the fight back to the feet.

Gobert shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
Gobert stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Khalidov swivels though and keeps the full guard.
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.
Khalidov controls Gobert momentarily but Gobert frees himself.
Gobert cracks Khalidov with a solid left hand.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Khalidov preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Gobert wants to control from the top but Khalidov keeps moving.

The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Gobert avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Gobert really does look like a pencil wearing a pair of gloves. Let's hope he has a gameplan to suit that ridiculous body shape.
Gobert wanted to stand there but Khalidov had control of the position.
Gobert stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Khalidov swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Khalidov keeping moving, preventing Gobert from controlling successfully.
Gobert pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Khalidov is keeping the position for now.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Khalidov is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Gobert won't allow Khalidov to sweep him here.

The referee has ruled that neither fighter is active enough on the ground and has stood them back up.
Khalidov is looking to clinch but Gobert is avoiding it.
A combination from Khalidov does no damage.

Gobert moves into the clinch.
Khalidov drops to a knee looking for a takedown but Gobert gets the underhooks and prevents it.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Khalidov is trying to force a seperation but Gobert has the dominant position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Khalidov shoots in but Gobert avoids the takedown attempt easily.

Gobert gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Khalidov has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Gobert after a bit of a struggle.
Khalidov has had enough of the clinch but Gobert keeps him there for the moment.

Gobert breaks from the clinch.
Gobert misses with a jab, cross combination.
Gobert throws a chopping leg kick but Khalidov manages to avoid taking any serious damage.
Gobert is looking to clinch.
Khalidov looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Gobert is fending him off so far but Khalidov persists. Nope, Gobert circles away and we're back to standing.
Johnny Gobert has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Mamed Khalidov.
Gobert throws a push kick but Khalidov slaps the foot to one side.
Khalidov tries to clinch there but Gobert circles away.
Khalidov tries for a takedown but Gobert sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Gobert goes for a double leg but Khalidov avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the ropes as Khalidov continues to drive forward.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Khalidov has had enough of the clinch but Gobert keeps him there for the moment.
The referee calls for Gobert to work.

Gobert pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Khalidov takes a thudding leg kick, right into the meat of the thigh.
Khalidov misses with a body shot.
Khalidov is breathing heavily.

Khalidov closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Gobert has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Khalidov is working away from the top position though.

Khalidov looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique.
Johnny Gobert overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Gobert looks like he's trying to stand up.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Gobert trying to control here.
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.

Gobert is defending against the submission attempts here by Khalidov.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Gobert keeping control of the position.
Khalidov seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Gobert does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.
Gobert wants to control but Khalidov is keeping busy.

The ref stands the fighters back up because Johnny Gobert just wasn't active enough.
A head kick misses from Gobert.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Khalidov blocks the body kick.

Gobert takes the fight into the clinch.
Gobert is trying to slow down the pace in the clinch, to catch his breath.
Khalidov will no doubt start fighting again in a minute but for now he's just having a little rest, leaning Gobert up against the ropes.

Gobert's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Khalidov checks a low kick from Gobert.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Nice sprawl there from Gobert as Khalidov shoots in.

Gobert drives through with a takedown into Khalidov's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Johnny Gobert dominated that second round.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! This is the final round!

Gobert is looking to clinch.
Khalidov closes this distance looking for a takedown but Gobert circles away.
Khalidov shoots in for a takedown but Gobert shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Some wild striking there from Khalidov.
Gobert shoots in looking for a takedown. Khalidov tries to sprawl out of it but Gobert keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the ropes. Khalidov manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Khalidov fails with the takedown
and Gobert makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Johnny Gobert has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Mamed Khalidov.
Khalidov slaps away a takedown attempt from Gobert, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Khalidov keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Khalidov takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Khalidov looks to land a right hand but Gobert moved out of range.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Gobert looks for a takedown but Khalidov sprawls well.
Gobert looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Gobert avoids the head kick by Khalidov.
Gobert circles away from the clinch attempt.
Gobert throws a head kick that looked like it stung.
Khalidov fails with a takedown attempt.
Gobert misses with a jab, cross combination.
Gobert throws the left hand but Khalidov avoids the punch easily.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Khalidov is defended easily by Gobert.
Khalidov fails with the takedown
and Gobert counters with a nice body kick.
A punch combination from Gobert misses.
Khalidov shoots for a takedown but Gobert saw that one coming a mile off and avoided it easily.

Gobert looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Khalidov!
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Khalidov tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Khalidov is working to avoid the ground and pound but Gobert connects with a decent elbow.

Gobert stands up and we're back to a striking position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Gobert has taken the fight to the clinch.

Khalidov ties up his opponent against the ropes and manages to drag the fight down to the ground. Khalidov no doubt will be looking to work submissions from his guard.
Gobert trying to control but Khalidov is working from the bottom.
We must be close to a standup if these guys don't pick up the pace.
Khalidov looking to control.

Johnny Gobert has forced the referee to step in and bring the fight back to the feet.

Gobert moves into the clinch successfully.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Gobert breaks from the clinch.
Gobert plants his feet and lands a nice head kick!

Gobert looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Khalidov keeping moving, preventing Gobert from controlling successfully.
Gobert wanted to stand there but Khalidov had control of the position.
Khalidov keeping full guard, as Gobert tries to pass.
Mamed Khalidov has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Johnny Gobert is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Khalidov trying to strike from the bottom but really, it's not the best position to be doing that from!

And that's the end of the fight!
Johnny Gobert showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Gobert has outscored his opponent in every aspect of the fight today. Only a scarily incompetent judge or two will keep him from a well deserved win... Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Shigeki Sano scores the fight 30:27
Judge Yuuki Gou scores the fight 30:27
Judge Tatsuya Matsuyama scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Johnny Gobert!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
45%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Tormy Skillz (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Junjun Alvarez (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Skillz
vs
Alvarez

175 cm
23
155 lbs
4 - 2 - 0

170 cm
25
145 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Solid Muay Thai
Cuts easily

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
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 4 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Tormy Skillz!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Junjun Alvarez!
The judges for this bout are Hirohito Nitta, Tatsuya Matsuyama and Yuuki Gou.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Alvarez tries to clinch up.

Alvarez darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Skillz is doing well to avoid being mounted. He's controlling the position at the moment.
Skillz trying to control from the bottom.
Skillz gets back to full guard.
Alvarez trying to control but Skillz is working from the bottom.

Skillz looking to try and escape his hips here, looking for a submission. It looks like he's going for a triangle but Alvarez is defending well. Skillz quickly switches to an armbar and extends the arm! Alvarez has no choice but to tap, to a very quick submission! Wow, that was lightning fast! Skillz celebrates on the ropes, with the crowd.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:52 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Tormy Skillz!
Tormy Skillz decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
39%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Kyubi Sojat (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Rafal Wallace (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Wallace is bouncing up and down as he enters the arena, backed by Sandaless - Wojownik. This should be fireworks!

Sojat
vs
Wallace

200 cm
23
200 lbs
3 - 1 - 0

183 cm
21
193 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Basic striking
Cuts easily

BJJ Purple Belt
Counter fighter
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 3 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Kyubi Sojat!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Rafal Wallace!
The judges for this bout are Sosuke Kotani, Shirou Masuda and Shigeki Sano.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Sojat gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Wallace connects with a couple of short punches.

Sojat working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Wallace doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Wallace manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Sojat is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.

Sojat is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Wallace throws a big elbow that misses.

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

Sojat escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Wallace gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Wallace is looking to work some ground and pound but Sojat has wrist control.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Wallace wants to control from the top but Sojat keeps moving.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Sojat is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Wallace is aware though and is defending well.
Wallace won't allow Sojat to get back to his feet.
Wallace 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.
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.
Wallace trying to control the position from guard on top but Sojat is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

The ref stands the fighters back up. Rafal Wallace was stalling too much, according to the referee.
Wallace wants to slow Sojat down by chopping away at his legs.
Wallace tries to score a power double leg takedown but Sojat sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Wallace somewhat.
Kyubi Sojat seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.

Sojat looks for a takedown. He's got it. We're now in half guard.
Wallace wants to get back to full guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Sojat throwing shots but they're hitting the canvas more than the man.

Sojat is trying to work for a kimura but Wallace is defending well.
Wallace works his way to full guard. Good work.
Sojat trying to control but Wallace is working from the bottom.
Our spies down at at The Slaughterhouse inform us that Wallace has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?
Wallace is trying to keep Sojat in close.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Sojat trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Sojat postures up.

Wallace escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Sojat gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Wallace looks winded!
Wallace keeping moving, preventing Sojat from controlling successfully.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Sojat advances position into side control!
Sojat tries to stand but Wallace is controlling his head.

Sojat decides to stand back up. Sojat steps back and let's Wallace get back to his feet.

Sojat shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Wallace manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
Wallace controlling the position.
Sojat trying to control the position from guard on top but Wallace is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Sojat wanted to stand there but Wallace had control of the position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Wallace is pulling down on Sojat's head to control his posture.

Sojat drops back for a leg! It's a sloppy attempt though and Sojat jumps back into guard quickly, to retain the dominant position.
Sojat trying to control the position from guard on top but Wallace is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Sojat 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.
Sojat trying to control but Wallace is working from the bottom.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Sojat looking to sit in guard and control but Wallace gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.
Wallace wanted to stand there but Sojat had control of the position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kyubi Sojat 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.

Wallace fails with a takedown attempt.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Wallace.

Sojat gets a takedown into half guard.

Sojat is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Wallace is just riding it out for now. Sojat eventually gives up the hold.
Sojat is trying to control the action in half guard but Wallace is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Wallace has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Sojat is working away from the top position though.
We've been hearing that Sojat has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
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.
Wallace is not content to let Sojat control the position.
Sojat is really struggling to control Wallace but he's trying to hold on to the position.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.
Wallace is trying to control but can't.

The ref stands the fighters back up because Kyubi Sojat just wasn't active enough.

Wallace changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Sojat looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Wallace is breathing heavily.
Sojat is looking for a sweep.
Wallace wants to stand but Sojat has his arm trapped.
Sojat is looking to regain half guard here but Wallace keeps moving and retains side control.
Sojat gets back to half guard.
Sojat is trying to stand up here but Wallace is controlling him well.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Wallace wants to take a breather but Sojat is having none of it.
Wallace prevents Sojat from improving his position.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Sojat is working hard here to advance position.
Wallace is trying to control the action in half guard but Sojat is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
Sojat keeping control of the leg, stopping his opponent passing to mount.

Rafal Wallace has forced the referee to step in and restart the fight on the feet.
Wallace tries to drive through with a takedown attempt but Sojat defends well and Wallace ends up having to push Sojat into the ropes where they will battle it out in the clinch.
Kyubi Sojat has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Rafal Wallace.

Sojat jumps into guard, dragging Wallace to the mat.
Wallace won't allow Sojat to sweep him here.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Wallace avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Sojat keeping moving, preventing Wallace from controlling successfully.

Sojat looking for a guillotine here but Wallace defends easily.
Wallace wants to control from the top but Sojat keeps moving.
Sojat wants to stand but Wallace is controlling the position.
Sojat not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

OK we're going to have a standup here. Rafal Wallace hasn't been effective enough on the ground and the referee wants a restart.

Excellent takedown into side control there by Sojat.
Sojat in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
Sojat tries to stand but Wallace is controlling his head.
The referee tells the fighters to keep busy.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!

Sojat is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Wallace is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.

Sojat decides to stand up, so the ref orders Wallace to his feet.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Sojat shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kyubi Sojat dominated that second 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. This is the final round!

Sojat 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.

Wallace looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Wallace wants to stand and escape but Sojat is having none of it.
Sojat stopping the sweep attempt from Wallace.
Sojat trying to control but Wallace is working from the bottom.
Wallace can't keep his opponent in guard - Sojat advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Wallace takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Sojat trying to pass the guard but Wallace defending well.
Sojat works his way into full mount!

That's one minute gone in the round.

Sojat is in full mount, looking to secure a guillotine but Wallace is surviving well by controlling Sojat's body position as best he can.
Sojat wants to stand but Wallace is holding on to him, trying to stop him posturing up.
Sojat fails to advance to Wallace's back.

Sojat goes for an armbar but Wallace turns quickly into his guard - lovely anticipation from Wallace.

Sojat is looking for a triangle but Wallace pushes his legs off easily.
Sojat is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Wallace is looking to work some ground and pound but Sojat has wrist control.
Both fighters really going for it on the ground here!
Wallace wants to control from the top but Sojat keeps moving.
Sojat throws a couple of shots from the bottom but they don't land.

Sojat looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Wallace wants to stand but Sojat has a closed guard, so he can't escape.
Wallace trying to control the position from guard on top but Sojat is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Sojat escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Wallace gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Sojat keeping moving, preventing Wallace from controlling successfully.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Wallace postures up in Sojat's guard and throws a big left but Sojat blocks it.
Wallace trying to control the position from guard on top but Sojat is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Sojat looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.

Wallace is holding a leg here, probably looking for an ankle lock - he drops back and goes for it! Sojat is in trouble! Is it all over??? No! Sojat has escaped and now he's on top!
Kyubi Sojat is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Sojat wants to pass the guard but Wallace is keeping the position.
Sojat wants to stand but Wallace has a closed guard, so he can't escape.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Sojat is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Wallace is working an open guard here, looking to improve his position. No doubt that will leave him open to counters but at least he's being more offensive.
Rafal Wallace has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Sojat wanted to stand there but Wallace had control of the position.
Wallace looking for a sweep. Not yet Wallace, not yet.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up, due to lack of activity on the part of Kyubi Sojat.

Sojat dives in and scores a takedown into Wallace's guard.

Sojat stands up from Wallace's guard - Sojat perhaps looking for a knockout.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Some wild striking there from Sojat.

And that's the end of the fight!
Kyubi Sojat showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Sojat has outscored his opponent in every aspect of the fight today. Only a scarily incompetent judge or two will keep him from a well deserved win... Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Sosuke Kotani scores the fight 30:27
Judge Shirou Masuda scores the fight 30:27
Judge Shigeki Sano scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Kyubi Sojat!
Rafal Wallace was interviewed post fight and said 'Never give up'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
62%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Obi Ginobili (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Tetsuo Mizoguchi (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Mizoguchi is bobbing his head along to his entrance song: Kaneda's Theme. I can't wait for this one - let's get the fighter introductions out of the way and get this one started!

Ginobili
vs
Mizoguchi

183 cm
25
159 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

173 cm
26
165 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Big heart

BJJ Purple Belt
Excellent boxer
Heavy handed

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 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Obi Ginobili!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Tetsuo Mizoguchi!
The judges for this bout are Sosuke Kotani, Tatsuya Matsuyama and Yukihiro Shimada.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Ginobili closes the distance and gets a double leg, slamming Mizoguchi to the mat! Mizoguchi manages to get full guard.
We could do with one of the fighters taking the initiative a bit more on the ground - they're both waiting to capitalize on a mistake.
Ginobili looking to pass the guard.

Mizoguchi has his foot on Ginobili's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Ginobili works his way back into a safe position though.
Ginobili wants to stand but Mizoguchi is controlling his posture from full guard.
Ginobili trying to control the position from guard on top but Mizoguchi is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Mizoguchi throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.

Mizoguchi looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Ginobili makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.
Ginobili trying to control the position from guard on top but Mizoguchi is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Mizoguchi is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Ginobili is aware though and is defending well.
Ginobili wants to stand but Mizoguchi is controlling his posture from full guard.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.

Mizoguchi looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ginobili sitting in guard, not really doing much.
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.

Mizoguchi has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Ginobili can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Ginobili stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Mizoguchi swivels though and keeps the full guard.

Mizoguchi looking for a guillotine here but Ginobili defends easily.
Ginobili trying to control the position from guard on top but Mizoguchi is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Mizoguchi working for a triangle but Ginobili defends it easily.
Ginobili trying to control but Mizoguchi is working from the bottom.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Ginobili pushes down on Mizoguchi's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Ginobili works his way into full mount!
Ginobili trying to control but Mizoguchi is having none of it.
The fighters are tangled up in the ropes here. We might need a restart if the fighters can't break free themselves.
Mizoguchi is working to get back to half guard.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Mizoguchi is squirming around, avoiding Ginobili's attempts to control the action.
Ginobili postures up and cracks his opponent a couple of times before moving back into close ground control. Mizoguchi looks a forlorn figure.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Mizoguchi really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Ginobili lands with some vicious ground and pound - can Mizoguchi hang on?
Ginobili wants to get back to his feet but Mizoguchi is holding on tight.
Mizoguchi keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
Ginobili controlling from mount.
Mizoguchi is trying to escape the mount.
Mizoguchi is still trying to improve position.
Ginobili seems to be looking to move to his opponent's back but Mizoguchi is holding on tight.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Mizoguchi regains half guard.
Ginobili controlling the pace.
Ginobili not landing any meaningful shots this time.

Mizoguchi actively working from the bottom here.

Mizoguchi looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!

Ginobili is working for a kimura but Mizoguchi is defending it quite comfortably.
Ginobili looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Ginobili is keen to just control but Mizoguchi is a slippery customer.

Mizoguchi is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Ginobili pulls his head out easily.

Mizoguchi looking for submissions off his back.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Obi Ginobili 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.

A punch combination from Mizoguchi misses.
Wow, both these guys are really going for it!
Mizoguchi cracks Ginobili with a right hand to the side of the head.
Mizoguchi throws a right and a left that both miss.
Mizoguchi checks a low kick from Ginobili.
Ginobili avoids a punch combination nicely.
Nice body punch from Mizoguchi.

Mizoguchi gets caught napping as Ginobili dives in and scores a takedown. Mizoguchi manages to retain guard.
Ginobili wants to pass the guard but Mizoguchi is keeping the position.
Ginobili wants to stand but Mizoguchi is controlling his posture from full guard.

Mizoguchi working from the bottom, still in full guard. He's managed to get a loose triangle. Ginobili doesn't seem to be doing much to defend here, obviously he feels comfortable in the position. Ginobili manages to throw the legs off his shoulder and he's back into guard - no problem.
Ginobili working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Mizoguchi keeping moving, preventing Ginobili from controlling successfully.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ginobili is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.

Mizoguchi is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Obi Ginobili overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.

Mizoguchi has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Ginobili can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Mizoguchi is breathing heavily.
Ginobili trying to control the position from guard on top but Mizoguchi is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Ginobili passes Mizoguchi's left leg - he's now in half guard.
Ginobili is looking to take a break and control but Mizoguchi is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Ginobili throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Ginobili frees up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Ginobili trying to control but Mizoguchi is having none of it.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A nice elbow there by Ginobili.
Ginobili pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Mizoguchi is working to get back to half 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!
Mizoguchi is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
Ginobili is looking to stand but Ginobili has his arms wrapped tightly around him, looking to prevent the damage.
Ginobili with good strikes from the mount here!
Mizoguchi is trying to escape the mount.
Ginobili pausing momentarily but resumes with a couple of decent strikes that do a bit of damage.
Ginobili trying to control but Mizoguchi is having none of it.
Mizoguchi is looking to improve his position but Ginobili isn't that keen on the idea.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Ginobili cracks Mizoguchi with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Ginobili tries to control but Mizoguchi wriggling away.
Mizoguchi is desperately trying to improve his position but Ginobili has a good base and remains in mount.
Ginobili looking to control and managing it successfully.
Mizoguchi working to try and regain half guard.
Ginobili cracks Mizoguchi with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.

Ginobili is going oldschool here, as he tries to force Mizoguchi to tap using a forearm choke. This isn't 1993 though, so Mizoguchi shrugs it off.
Mizoguchi is wriggling around trying to escape.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Mizoguchi felt the need to train up his defensive grappling in the buildup to the fight. Presumably he was expecting to be in a difficult position like this, so let's see if he can get out of it.

Ginobili looking to secure an arm triangle but Mizoguchi defends it well.
Mizoguchi takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
Ginobili wants to get back to his feet but Mizoguchi is holding on tight.
Ginobili manages to capitalize on a mistake by Mizoguchi to take his back!
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!
Ginobili is riding his opponent, not letting Mizoguchi buck him off.
Mizoguchi is in bad spot here.

Ginobili has the rear naked choke here! This is very bad for Mizoguchi! Can he survive? No! He's out! Ginobili gets to his feet and celebrates with his cornermen. He looks absolutely delighted. In the post fight interviews he takes time to thank his parents and everyone who has believed in him from the start. How sweet.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:56 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Obi Ginobili!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
43%

Main event

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Roberto Fantuzzi (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Adam Jamie (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Fantuzzi's ring entrance music is that housewives' favourite, Alexia - Dimmi Come.... This should be a great matchup!

Fantuzzi
vs
Jamie

174 cm
27
185 lbs
5 - 2 - 0

190 cm
27
190 lbs
6 - 2 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid boxing
Granite chin

Good wrestler
Brawler
Knockout power

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 Tokyo, Roberto Fantuzzi!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 6 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Adam Jamie!
The judges for this bout are Shirou Masuda, Kenichi Hosakawa and Sosuke Kotani.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Horrible takedown by Jamie or perhaps it was just good defense by Fantuzzi which made him look bad.
Jamie dives in and grabs Fantuzzi's left leg, looking for a takedown. Fantuzzi pushes down on Jamie's head and hops out.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Jamie.
Roberto Fantuzzi has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Adam Jamie.

Fantuzzi closes the distance and looks for a trip takedown... aaaand he's got it - Fantuzzi lands in his opponent's guard.
We could do with one of the fighters taking the initiative a bit more on the ground - they're both waiting to capitalize on a mistake.
We must be close to a standup if these guys don't pick up the pace.
Fantuzzi controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Jamie can do anything to dispel that myth.
Fantuzzi won't allow Jamie to sweep him here.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up, due to lack of activity on the part of Roberto Fantuzzi.

Oooooh!!! Fantuzzi has knocked Jamie down with a huge combo! Fantuzzi steps away and waves a wobbly Jamie back to his feet! This one might not go much longer!

Jamie is rocked!
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!
Fantuzzi lands a nice looking body shot.
Jamie is still on wobbly legs! Can Fantuzzi finish him?
Jamie misses with a takedown attempt
and Fantuzzi counters with a powerful cross that connects right on the chin and the lights go out! A massive one punch knock out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:55 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Roberto Fantuzzi!
Roberto Fantuzzi is the new middleweight champion!
Our winner, Roberto Fantuzzi, made sure he spent some time buttering up the crowd during his post fight interview, which will no doubt bring him a few more fans.