HFC 3: Da Gaucho vs Maisumov PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Ramazan Abdulkerimov (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and David Carlsson (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Buckle up people - heeeeeeeeeere we go!

Abdulkerimov
vs
Carlsson

188 cm
24
250 lbs
6 - 3 - 0

193 cm
28
216 lbs
9 - 6 - 0

Good wrestling
Brawler
Experienced

Good takedowns
Brawler
Determined

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 6 - 3 - 0, fighting out of St Petersburg, Ramazan Abdulkerimov!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 9 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, David Carlsson!
The judges for this bout are Roosa Järviläinen, Ben Zyskovitsi and Tarja Halkonen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Abdulkerimov closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Carlsson's guard.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Abdulkerimov accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Abdulkerimov trying to control but Carlsson is working from the bottom.
Abdulkerimov has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.

Carlsson escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Abdulkerimov gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Carlsson keeping full guard, as Abdulkerimov tries to pass.
Abdulkerimov stopping the sweep attempt from Carlsson.
Carlsson controlling Abdulkerimov's posture.
Abdulkerimov stands and throws Carlsson's legs to the side, diving into side control.
Abdulkerimov is chipping away with strikes.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Carlsson taking punishment in the form of punches.
Carlsson is not content to let Abdulkerimov control the position.
Carlsson is looking for a sweep.

Abdulkerimov is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Carlsson knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
Carlsson is trying to get back to half guard.
Abdulkerimov tries to move to mount but Carlsson blocks the move with his legs.
Carlsson parries the strikes from Abdulkerimov easily there. Abdulkerimov is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Carlsson to escape.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Abdulkerimov lands an elbow.
Carlsson takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
A bit of a lull in the action. I'm sure it will pick up again soon... even if the ref has to physically pick them up and put them back on their feet.
Carlsson is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Carlsson gets one leg under and gets the fight to half guard.
Carlsson looks winded!
This has been an exciting period of action!
Abdulkerimov trying to control from half guard but Carlsson is working away.
Abdulkerimov is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Carlsson is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.
Carlsson trying to control but Abdulkerimov postures up.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Abdulkerimov trying to control from half guard but Carlsson is working away.

Carlsson is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Abdulkerimov pulls his head out easily.

Abdulkerimov wants to work for an arm triangle but Carlsson is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Carlsson is looking for a sweep. Abdulkerimov is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Carlsson won't allow Abdulkerimov to pass to mount.
Abdulkerimov is taking a breather. Carlsson says something to him but it's hard to make out. Perhaps he's telling him to get on with it and actually do something.
Abdulkerimov thows a huge punch but Carlsson dodges it nicely.
Carlsson is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Abdulkerimov knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Carlsson on the ground.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Carlsson is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Abdulkerimov scores with a couple of nice shots.
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. Abdulkerimov connects with a nice short shot to Carlsson's temple.

Carlsson looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Abdulkerimov wants to pass to mount but Carlsson is defending the position.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Abdulkerimov trying to control the action but Carlsson is working from the bottom.

Abdulkerimov is working for a submission of some sort.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Ramazan Abdulkerimov dominated that round.
That's time! Abdulkerimov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.

Abdulkerimov fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Abdulkerimov is looking to clinch.

Carlsson drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Carlsson trying to control the position but Abdulkerimov is working away.

Carlsson tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Carlsson has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
Carlsson is trying to ground and pound but Abdulkerimov uses the momentary lack of control by Carlsson to regain half guard.
Carlsson is breathing heavily.
Abdulkerimov is doing well to control the position and prevent Carlsson from advancing to side control.
Abdulkerimov on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Abdulkerimov tries to get out of the position.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Abdulkerimov is refusing to be controlled, as Carlsson sits in half guard.
Carlsson prevents Abdulkerimov from standing back up.
Abdulkerimov taking some punishment here, with Carlsson in his half guard.
Abdulkerimov is looking to escape.
Carlsson is keen to just control but Abdulkerimov is a slippery customer.
Abdulkerimov avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Carlsson.
Neither fighter is being very active at the moment, with Carlsson in particular looking to stall.
Abdulkerimov pushes Carlsson off but Carlsson dives into side control.
Abdulkerimov wants to get back to his feet but Carlsson is dominant here and he's now got Abdulkerimov's back!

Carlsson is cranking Abdulkerimov's head sideways - that looks painful. He's managed to get his other arm under the chin and this looks bad for Abdulkerimov! He's tightened the choke and Abdulkerimov is tapping out!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:55 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). David Carlsson!
During a confident post fight interview, David Carlsson 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
68%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Petteri Jeskanen (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jacques Gabriel (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Jeskanen comes to the cage accompanied by GET UP. Petteri Jeskanen looks tired to me. Hopefully he has got enough gas left in the tank to put in a good performance.

Jeskanen
vs
Gabriel

180 cm
20
185 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

182 cm
27
200 lbs
12 - 5 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Good chin

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Granite 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 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Petteri Jeskanen!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 12 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Jacques Gabriel!
The judges for this bout are Anni Minnemäki, Ben Zyskovitsi and Arvi Lind.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Gabriel looks to land a right hand but Jeskanen moved out of range.
Gabriel looks to land a right hand but Jeskanen moved out of range.
Well, he's not going to score with shots like that. A lazy body kick attempt from Jeskanen.

Jeskanen bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Gabriel regains half guard.
Jeskanen is trying to control. Gabriel wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Jeskanen is breathing heavily.
Gabriel moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.

Gabriel has managed to work for a loose triangle. I think Jeskanen should be able to defend this one pretty easily though. Oh, Gabriel has tightened it up now! Jeskanen should have reacted faster there - he's in big trouble and yes, he's tapped out! This one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:42 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Jacques Gabriel!
Our winner, Jacques Gabriel, 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.
Petteri Jeskanen spoke after the fight, saying 'I WILL BECAUSE HIM BECAUSE THE JUDGE COMPLETILY SEE WRONG THINGS IN COURT'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
52%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Bruno Serafin (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Ryan Chandler (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). These two fighters really are very evenly matched on the feet - it will be fascinating to see who can assert themselves in that aspect of the fight.

Serafin
vs
Chandler

193 cm
23
162 lbs
6 - 3 - 0

175 cm
23
162 lbs
6 - 4 - 0

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
Experienced

Good wrestler
Basic striking
Granite chin

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 6 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Bruno Serafin!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 6 - 4 - 0, fighting out of New York, Ryan Chandler!
The judges for this bout are Tarja Halkonen, Johanna Lukiainen and Arvi Lind.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Chandler misses with a wild combination.
Chandler misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Serafin.
A punch combination from Chandler misses.
Ryan Chandler seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Chandler misses with the combination.
Chandler looks to score with a jab to the body but Serafin is just out of range.

Serafin gets caught napping as Chandler dives in and scores a takedown. Serafin manages to retain guard.
The referee wants the fighters to be more active or he's going to reset them on the feet.
Serafin lands a beautiful switch and he's in full mount! That could spell trouble for Chandler!

Serafin is thinking about an arm triangle here, looking to tighten it up before moving to side control. Chandler can see it coming though and defends well with a couple of strikes to the head and some good arm positioning.
Chandler prevents Serafin from taking his back.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Serafin throwing strikes here but Chandler is writhing around nicely and avoiding any serious damage.
Serafin looking to control but Chandler is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Serafin pushing the pace here, looking to move to his opponents back and work for a finish.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

Serafin is looking to secure an arm. He's managed it! He's pivoting for an armbar - that looks tight! But Chandler has managed to get out of it and now he's in a dominant position. Nice work from Chandler!

Serafin looking for a triangle here. Chandler is fighting it but it looks tight! Serafin pulls the arm across and this one won't last much longer! Nope, Chandler is tapping out - this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Choke). Bruno Serafin!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
33%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Mahamud Najib Osman (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Dileno Carneiro (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Najib Osman's ring entrance music is that housewives' favourite, THE MONSTER. Well, I have no idea who's going to take this one!

Najib Osman
vs
Carneiro

178 cm
18
150 lbs
0 - 3 - 0

170 cm
28
143 lbs
9 - 10 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Cuts easily

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
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 0 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Mahamud Najib Osman!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 9 - 10 - 0, fighting out of St Petersburg, Dileno Carneiro!
The judges for this bout are Ben Zyskovitsi, Marco Blurström and Johanna Lukiainen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Najib Osman throws a head kick that misses

and Carneiro counters by moving into the clinch. Good anticipation by Carneiro.
Najib Osman tries to break the clinch but Carneiro is controlling the position.
Najib Osman definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Najib Osman is defending well against a takedown attempt.
Carneiro has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Najib Osman is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
Carneiro is working for takedown but Najib Osman is calmly controlling the position for now.
Mahamud Najib Osman has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Dileno Carneiro.

Najib Osman drags the fight down to the ground.
Carneiro trying to control the position from guard on top but Najib Osman is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Carneiro 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.
Najib Osman wants to stand but Carneiro is controlling the position.
Carneiro trying to control the position from guard on top but Najib Osman is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Najib Osman manages to wriggle out and sneak his way back up to his feet, so the fighters are now clinched up against the cage.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Carneiro as Najib Osman tries to tie him up.
Carneiro lands a nice uppercut.
Carneiro tries to score a body lock takedown but Najib Osman shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
Najib Osman controlling the action here for a moment.
Carneiro wants a takedown but no success here.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Najib Osman has managed to pull guard. Let's see whether he can work an aggressive guard. It will also be interesting to see what tactics Carneiro uses from the top position.
Carneiro forces his way into half guard.
Carneiro wants to free his trapped foot but Najib Osman is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Najib Osman tries to get to full guard but Carneiro has control of the leg.
Najib Osman is breathing heavily.
Carneiro trying to control the action but Najib Osman is working from the bottom.
Carneiro thows a wild elbow that connects with the canvas.
Carneiro uses his free foot to push down on Najib Osman's thigh. Eventually he works his other foot free and he's advanced to mount - this is trouble for Najib Osman.

Carneiro working for a submission but Najib Osman is keeping him at bay.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Najib Osman holding onto his opponent's waist for dear life, as Carneiro tries to land some strikes to get him to release his grip.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Carneiro swings around for an armbar and he's got it! Wow, that came out of nowhere! What a finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:31 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Dileno Carneiro!
Mahamud Najib Osman was interviewed post fight and said 'I WILL BECAUSE HIM BECAUSE THE JUDGE COMPLETILY SEE WRONG THINGS IN COURT'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
40%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Einat Thoresen (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Niklas Backstrom (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Niklas Backstrom will no doubt be trying to keep this one on the feet, where he has a distinct advantage.

Thoresen
vs
Backstrom

180 cm
25
155 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

183 cm
23
162 lbs
7 - 2 - 0

Good takedowns
Brawler
Self confident

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
Determined

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the lightweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Einat Thoresen!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 7 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Niklas Backstrom!
The judges for this bout are Roosa Järviläinen, Marco Blurström and Anni Minnemäki.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Thoresen drives through with a takedown into Backstrom's guard. Let's see what he can do from the top position.
We must be close to a standup if these guys don't pick up the pace.

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

Einat Thoresen has forced the referee to step in and bring the fight back to the feet.
Thoresen has a takedown stuffed.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Thoresen gets in close and instigates a clinch.
Thoresen is trying to break free.
Thoresen leaning against his opponent.

Thoresen successfully pulls guard.

Backstrom avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Backstrom 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.
Backstrom wants to control from the top but Thoresen keeps moving.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Thoresen looking for a sweep. Not yet Thoresen, not yet.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Backstrom accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Backstrom wants to control from the top but Thoresen keeps moving.

The ref stands the fighters back up. Niklas Backstrom was stalling too much, according to the referee.
Nice sprawl there from Backstrom as Thoresen shoots in.

Thoresen has managed to clinch.
Thoresen tries to jump guard but he falls flat on his backside. Backstrom smiles and moves away.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Einat Thoresen. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Thoresen tries to score a power double leg takedown but Backstrom sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Thoresen somewhat.
Thoresen is breathing heavily.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Backstrom swats away the attempt to clinch by Thoresen.
Thoresen dives in and grabs Backstrom's left leg, looking for a takedown. Backstrom pushes down on Thoresen's head and hops out.

Backstrom looking to score a takedown here. Thoresen is defending well but Backstrom drives through and ends up in Thoresen's guard.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Backstrom accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Backstrom 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.
Thoresen looking to control.
Backstrom advances position into side control!
Backstrom trying to control the action but Thoresen is working from the bottom.

Backstrom is looking to finish here, going for an Americana. Thoresen knows the correct defense though, so he's OK.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.

The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Backstrom thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Niklas Backstrom will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!

Thoresen misses with a takedown

and Backstrom counters with a shoot takedown into half guard.
Thoresen won't allow Backstrom to pass to mount.

Backstrom is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Thoresen sees it coming and defends easily.
Thoresen is refusing to be controlled, as Backstrom sits in half guard.
Backstrom is thwarting Thoresen's attempts to control the position.
Backstrom wants to free his trapped foot but Thoresen is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Thoresen controlling the position well.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Thoresen is trying to stand up here but Backstrom is controlling him well.

Einat Thoresen has forced the referee to step in and bring the fight back to the feet.
Thoresen misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Backstrom.
Backstrom checks a leg kick.
Backstrom showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Thoresen.
Thoresen doesn't manage to clinch there - Backstrom circles away.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Thoresen is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Backstrom's half guard.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Thoresen trying to control the action but Backstrom is working from the bottom.
Backstrom trying to hold on to Thoresen's head to control him but Thoresen postures up.
Backstrom controlling the leg, holding on to half guard.
Backstrom is looking for a sweep. Thoresen is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Thoresen looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.

Neither fighter is doing enough for the referee's liking and he's decided to stand them back up.
Thoresen dives in for a single leg takedown but Backstrom sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.

Backstrom breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Thoresen fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Thoresen moves in looking to clinch but Backstrom pushes him off.
Thoresen looks for the body kick but Backstrom saw that one coming.
Thoresen looks to land a body kick but Backstrom moved away.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Thoresen is looking to clinch but Backstrom is avoiding it.

Thoresen scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Backstrom manages to get back to half guard.
Backstrom is looking to escape.
Backstrom gets full guard.
Backstrom trying to control the position.

Backstrom throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
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.

Backstrom had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Thoresen defends it easily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Niklas Backstrom 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.

Thoresen closes this distance looking for a takedown but Backstrom circles away.
Thoresen tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
The fight stays on the outside here - Thoresen looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Thoresen dives in and grabs Backstrom's left leg, looking for a takedown. Backstrom pushes down on Thoresen's head and hops out.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
No luck for Thoresen with that takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Einat Thoresen. That's going to take a lot out of him.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Thoresen shoots in and gets a takedown into Backstrom's guard.

Backstrom had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Thoresen defends it easily.

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

Backstrom has his foot on Thoresen's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Thoresen works his way back into a safe position though.

Backstrom has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Thoresen can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
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!
Thoresen looking to pass the guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Thoresen controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
Thoresen wants to pass the guard but Backstrom is keeping the position.

Backstrom has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Thoresen can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Thoresen wants to control from the top but Backstrom keeps moving.

Backstrom had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Thoresen defends it easily.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Backstrom wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Thoresen trying to control the position from guard on top but Backstrom is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Thoresen tries to free his leg and advance position but Backstrom is retaining full guard.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Backstrom tries to land a sweep but no joy.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up, due to lack of activity on the part of Einat Thoresen.
Thoresen fails with an attempt to clinch.
Thoresen tries to clinch there but Backstrom circles away.
A head kick misses from Thoresen.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Backstrom keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
A combination from Thoresen does no damage.
Thoresen dives in and grabs Backstrom's left leg, looking for a takedown. Backstrom pushes down on Thoresen's head and hops out.
Backstrom fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Thoresen throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Backstrom shoots in looking for a takedown but Thoresen manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Backstrom's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Thoresen shoots in and drives through. Backstrom sprawls well.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Niklas Backstrom really 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.

Thoresen tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Backstrom manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Thoresen throws a right and a left that both miss.
Thoresen swings away with a leg kick that misses.
Thoresen shoots in looking for a takedown but Backstrom manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Thoresen's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Thoresen tries to clinch but Backstrom moves out of range.
Thoresen changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Backstrom tries to avoid it but Thoresen manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Backstrom to the ground. Backstrom escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Thoresen tries to close the distance and clinch up but Backstrom swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Thoresen throws a leg kick but Backstrom moved away.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Thoresen throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Backstrom's waist but Backstrom gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Thoresen off to one side.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Einat Thoresen. That's going to take a lot out of him.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Backstrom fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Thoresen avoids it really well and circles away.
Thoresen tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Backstrom swivels and escapes.

Backstrom darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.
Thoresen wants to control but Backstrom is keeping busy and won't allow it.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Backstrom landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Backstrom is keen to just control but Thoresen is a slippery customer.

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

Backstrom is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Thoresen has managed to free his arm - good work.
Niklas Backstrom has got the better of the ground game so far.
Thoresen is staying active underneath Backstrom, who seems content to just control the action from this position.

Backstrom is working for a submission of some sort.
Backstrom slips a nice elbow through Thoresen's hands, connecting with Thoresen's forehead.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Backstrom is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Thoresen is looking to control Backstrom's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Thoresen avoid being mounted?
Thoresen looks like he's trying to stand up.
Thoresen is looking for a sweep. Backstrom is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.

Backstrom is looking for a kimura but Thoresen is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Backstrom to get the leverage.
Backstrom not throwing his punches with enough precision this time.

Backstrom is trying to work for a kimura but Thoresen is defending well.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Thoresen is not content to let Backstrom control the position.
Backstrom prevents Thoresen from improving his position.
Thoresen trying to get back to full guard but Backstrom takes advantage of the position and moves to full mount!

Backstrom looks like he's working for a submission but he's not found anything just yet.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Thoresen keeping his composure momentarily, calmly looking to get back to half guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Niklas Backstrom dominated that fourth round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!

Backstrom tries for a takedown but Thoresen sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.

Thoresen shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Thoresen was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
Backstrom wants to control but Thoresen postures up.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Thoresen wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Backstrom, who protects the arm well.
Backstrom wants to control but Thoresen postures up.
Both of our modern day gladiators look out of it here - a gruelling 5 rounds of action taking it's toll on them, no doubt.
Backstrom might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Thoresen haven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Backstrom throws an elbow to the body but it doesn't land.
Backstrom sneaks back into half guard.
Backstrom is trying to stand.

Thoresen wants to work for an arm triangle but Backstrom is really keeping half guard well and defending the submission attempt.
Backstrom regains full guard. Nicely done.
Thoresen pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Backstrom is keeping the position for now.

Backstrom is looking to cinch up a triangle. Thoresen throws the leg off to one side though and gets in tight to Backstrom's body to avoid the submission. Backstrom has instead reached around Thoresen's neck and now has a guillotine! Oh, this is biiiig trouble! Backstrom arches his back and squeezes and forces the tap from his hapless opponent.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:18 of round 5, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Niklas Backstrom! Niklas Backstrom retains his lightweight title!

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 heavyweight MMA rules bout between Rafael Carneiro (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Karlos Vemola (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Carneiro
vs
Vemola

191 cm
26
229 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

183 cm
24
224 lbs
7 - 3 - 0

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
Good chin

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the heavyweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Rafael Carneiro!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 7 - 3 - 0, fighting out of London, Karlos Vemola!
The judges for this bout are Arvi Lind, Matti Vanhoillinen and Marco Blurström.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Vemola tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Carneiro swivels and escapes.

Excellent takedown into side control there by Vemola.
Vemola tries to move to mount but Carneiro blocks the move with his legs.
Vemola is looking to take a break and control but Carneiro is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Carneiro regains half guard.
Vemola wants to pass to mount but Carneiro is defending the position.
Carneiro wants to get back to full guard.
Vemola stops Carneiro from getting back to his feet.
Carneiro regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Vemola.
Vemola looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
Vemola trying to control but Carneiro is working from the bottom.
Vemola must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Vemola pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Carneiro is keeping the position for now.

Vemola avoids a guillotine attempt easily.

Carneiro is looking for a triangle here but Vemola uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Vemola wants to control but Carneiro is keeping him busy.
Carneiro gets back to half guard.
Carneiro is pressing down on Vemola's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Vemola wants to control from the top but Carneiro keeps moving.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Vemola stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Carneiro swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Vemola not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.

Carneiro is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Vemola is aware though and is defending 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!

Carneiro working for a triangle but Vemola defends it easily.
Vemola tries to free his leg and advance position but Carneiro is retaining full guard.
Vemola is in close to Carneiro's body, working some short punches and elbows.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Carneiro escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Vemola gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Vemola trying to control but Carneiro is working from the bottom.
Carneiro controls Vemola momentarily but Vemola frees himself.
Vemola working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.

Carneiro is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.
Vemola trying to control but Carneiro is working from the bottom.

Vemola got a little sloppy there for a moment and Carneiro has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Vemola has managed to get both his arms back between Carneiro's legs - danger averted.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Vemola throws a big elbow that misses.
Carneiro wants to sweep here but Vemola controlling him for the moment.
Carneiro is breathing heavily.
Vemola scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Vemola lands a couple of digs.
Vemola is in close to Carneiro's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Vemola looking to pass the guard.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.

Carneiro is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Vemola stands up over Carneiro, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Karlos Vemola will probably get the nod.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business.

Vemola is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Carneiro's half guard.

Carneiro looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Vemola stalling away here and it's allowed Carneiro to slip out his trapped foot and regain full guard.
Vemola is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Karlos Vemola has got the better of the ground game so far.
Vemola pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Carneiro is keeping the position for now.
Vemola cracks Carneiro with a solid left hand.
Vemola slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Carneiro is looking for a triangle here but Vemola uses the submission attempt to pass into side control.
Carneiro is not content to let Vemola control the position.
Carneiro is looking for a sweep.
Carneiro is working hard here to advance position.
Carneiro is trying to control Vemola's posture but Vemola avoids it.
Vemola wants to lay and pray for a moment but Carneiro keeps working.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Carneiro struggling a bit here.
Carneiro is looking to slip a leg under and get half guard but Vemola is one step ahead and moves to full mount!
Vemola trying to control but he's not successful this time.
Carneiro is looking to improve his position but Vemola isn't that keen on the idea.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Vemola looking to control but Carneiro is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Vemola lands an elbow that was bordering on illegal but the referee lets it go with a warning.
Vemola trying to control but Carneiro is having none of it.
Vemola prevents Carneiro from getting the reversal.
Vemola cracks Carneiro with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Vemola cracks Carneiro with a nasty head shot there - the crowd let out an audible gasp there, as the noise reverberated around the arena.
Vemola putting on the heat here with some good ground and pound!
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Carneiro really trying hard to get back to half guard here.
Vemola has his opponent pinned against the cage, landing some nasty ground and pound that is really making a bit of a mess out of Carneiro's face.
Vemola lands a heavy elbow.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Carneiro is just holding on here. Vemola manages to take his back.

Vemola looking for the choke but no joy.
Carneiro is trying to get back to his feet but Vemola has full control of the position and if anything, Carneiro has just worked his way into a worse spot.
Carneiro is in bad spot here.
Vemola trying to control.

Vemola looking for the choke from the back.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Carneiro covers up after taking a massive shot to the side of the head.

Vemola has his opponent's back and is working for the choke.
Vemola lands strikes to the head.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Karlos Vemola showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.

Carneiro keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Vemola is trying hard to land a takedown here. Carneiro sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Vemola with a lazy takedown attempt
and Carneiro makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Rafael Carneiro has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Karlos Vemola.
Vemola tries for a takedown but Carneiro circles away easily

and Carneiro counters with a nice double leg into side control. Vemola won't be happy with that.

Carneiro thinks about going for a far side armbar but bails out and retains the dominant position instead.
Carneiro is putting a hurting on Vemola here, landing some big shots from side control.
Vemola takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!

Carneiro has hold of Vemola's arm here. He's working for an Americana. It looks like he might have it! Vemola tries to escape but he's just digging himself in deeper - Carneiro cranks the arm and Vemola screams in pain! The ref makes a decision and ends the fight before the tap - no complains from Vemola, who is just happy to have his arm attached to his body.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:59 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Americana). Rafael Carneiro!
Rafael Carneiro is the new heavyweight champion!

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 bantamweight MMA rules bout between Timo Katainen (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Fabricio Carvalho (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). This should be fireworks!

Katainen
vs
Carvalho

176 cm
24
137 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

170 cm
28
144 lbs
11 - 2 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Good kicks
Self confident

BJJ Purple Belt
Counter fighter
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the bantamweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Timo Katainen!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 11 - 2 - 0, fighting out of St Petersburg, Fabricio Carvalho!
The judges for this bout are Ben Zyskovitsi, Marco Blurström and Tarja Halkonen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
We've got one fighter who appears to only be looking to counter and the other not looking particularly aggressive either, so we could be in for a dull fight.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Carvalho.
Katainen stuffs the takedown.
Carvalho misses with an uppercut

and Katainen counters by moving into the clinch. Good anticipation by Katainen.
Katainen jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Carvalho walks away with a smile on his face. Katainen gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
Katainen really does look like a pencil wearing a pair of gloves. Let's hope he has a gameplan to suit that ridiculous body shape.

Carvalho scores with a takedown into Katainen's guard.
Katainen not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Katainen will have to put a bit more behind his punches if he's going to do any damage from this position.

Carvalho avoids a guillotine attempt easily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Carvalho with a nice head shot there.
Carvalho controlling from the top position.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Carvalho's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Carvalho slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Carvalho working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Katainen wants to control the position but Carvalho says "no thanks buddy" and passes to half guard.
Carvalho is pressing down on Katainen's thigh, looking to free his foot. Katainen is holding on for now.
Katainen wants to control but Carvalho is keeping busy.
Katainen is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Carvalho is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Carvalho takes a deep breath and rests his weight momentarily on top of his opponent, to control the position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Katainen trying to control but Carvalho postures up.
Carvalho is figuring out what he wants to do next.

Neither fighter is doing enough for the referee's liking and he's decided to stand them back up.
Carvalho looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Carvalho shoots in but doesn't get the takedown

and Katainen moves into the clinch.
Timo Katainen has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Fabricio Carvalho.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Katainen is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Carvalho gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Katainen wants a takedown.
Katainen is working hard here but doesn't seem to be able to control effectively, up against the cage.
Carvalho changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Katainen fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
Nice takedown defense from Katainen. No joy for Carvalho on that attempt.
Timo Katainen is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Carvalho closes this distance looking for a takedown but Katainen circles away.
Carvalho shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Katainen but Katainen pushes him off and we're back to square one.

Carvalho bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Fabricio Carvalho dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!

Carvalho thows a body shot but no joy.
Carvalho shoots in for a takedown but Katainen shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Carvalho shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Katainen defends it nicely.
Carvalho has a takedown stuffed.
Timo Katainen has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Fabricio Carvalho.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Carvalho shoots in and gets a takedown into Katainen's guard.
Katainen is trying to control the position but Carvalho postures up.

Katainen is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Carvalho is aware though and is defending well.
Carvalho is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Carvalho slips effortlessly into side control - very nice.
Carvalho lands a decent elbow from side control.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Katainen is looking to regain half guard here but Carvalho keeps moving and retains side control.
Carvalho working the head with strikes.
Katainen can't do much from the bottom here.
Carvalho has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
Katainen is working to avoid the ground and pound but Carvalho connects with a decent elbow.
This has been an exciting period of action!

Carvalho has hold of Katainen's arm. He's looking for a kimura. Katainen seems comfortable defending it but Carvalho has shifted his position slighty and is cranking on the arm! Katainen is real pain and he's forced to tap out! Katainen is disgusted with himself for not defending it better but Carvalho couldn't care less - he's delighted!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:34 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Fabricio Carvalho!
Fabricio Carvalho got down on his knees post fight and begged the management for a title shot. 'Please, I want that title shot so bad! Give it to me!'

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
30%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Carl Draiman (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Rafael Almeida (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The fight MMA fans around the world have waited their entire lives for!

Draiman
vs
Almeida

178 cm
27
193 lbs
6 - 0 - 0

191 cm
28
195 lbs
6 - 3 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Basic striking
Experienced

Good takedowns
Solid Muay Thai
Knockout power

FinnFighter Nutrition (Five 160Q supps!)
Alpha Male

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 6 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Carl Draiman!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 6 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Rafael Almeida!
The judges for this bout are Matti Vanhoillinen, Tarja Halkonen and Arvi Lind.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Almeida tries for a takedown but Draiman circles away easily
and Draiman connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.
Draiman fails with the takedown

and Almeida counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Almeida.
Almeida stays in close to Draiman's body and controls the position.
Almeida throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Almeida is intent on slowing down the pace of the fight, simply looking to control.
Let's hope that Almeida 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 calls for a clean break and stands the fighters back up. Rafael Almeida wasn't active enough on the ground.

Draiman looking to shoot here. He's gone for it and he's landed a takedown into side control! Oh, that's bad for Almeida!
Almeida has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Almeida is trying to improve his position.
Almeida sneaks back into half guard.
Almeida wants to get back to his feet.
Draiman wants to free his trapped foot but Almeida is holding on for dear life with his legs.

Almeida looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Draiman controlling the action here.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Almeida is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Draiman pulls his head out easily.
Draiman stops Almeida from getting back to his feet.
Almeida is looking to control Draiman's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Almeida avoid being mounted?
Almeida is positioning himself well to prevent Draiman advancing to mount.
Almeida manages to get to full guard.
We've been hearing good reports from Draiman's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
Draiman wants to stand but Almeida has a closed guard, so he can't escape.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Draiman sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Draiman looking to pass the guard.
Draiman prevents Almeida from getting back to his feet.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.

Almeida looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Almeida keeping moving, preventing Draiman from controlling successfully.
Draiman pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Almeida is keeping the position for now.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Draiman trying to control the position from guard on top but Almeida is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Almeida seems keen to control rather than go for a submission, at least for now.
Draiman has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.

The ref stands the fighters back up because Carl Draiman just wasn't active enough.
Almeida dives in and grabs Draiman's left leg, looking for a takedown. Draiman pushes down on Almeida's head and hops out.
Draiman shoots in and drives through. Almeida sprawls well.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Draiman tries to clinch up.
Almeida shoots in for a takedown but Draiman shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Carl Draiman has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Rafael Almeida.
Draiman closes the distance and clinches up with Almeida, looking for a takedown. Draiman pushes Almeida against the cage but Almeida circles to the side and manages to break the clinch.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Rafael Almeida 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.

Draiman tries to land a front kick but Almeida steps back. That was a bit too telegraphed.
Draiman shoots in for a takedown but Almeida shows good takedown defense.

Almeida changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Draiman looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Almeida tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Draiman gets back to half guard.
Draiman slips a foot under and gets full guard. Nice work.
Almeida throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Almeida trying to control but Draiman is working from the bottom.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Almeida is looking to pass into half guard but Draiman pushes him away with his feet and jumps on top - now Draiman is in guard.

Draiman got a little sloppy there for a moment and Almeida has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Draiman has managed to get both his arms back between Almeida's legs - danger averted.
Draiman is stalling in the full guard.
Almeida is pulling down on Draiman's head. It's preventing any offense from Draiman, at least for the moment.
Draiman trying to control the position from guard on top but Almeida is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Almeida managing to control the position.
Almeida manages to land a sweep and now he's in mount on top!

Almeida gets to his feet and calls his opponent to stand. Here come the fireworks!
Draiman keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Draiman misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
Carl Draiman seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Almeida shoots for a double leg takedown but Draiman sprawls well. He's pushed Almeida's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Draiman throws a lazy head kick
and Almeida counters with a left and a right that stings Draiman.
A leg kick checked by Almeida.

Almeida shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Draiman manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
Draiman has control of Almeida's left arm, preventing Almeida from doing any damage.
Almeida advances position into side control!

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

That's four minutes gone in the round.
You can see the frustration on Draiman's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Almeida wants to lay and pray for a moment but Draiman keeps working.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:47 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Rafael Almeida! Rafael Almeida retains his middleweight title!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
29%

Main event

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Bruno Da Gaucho (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Tabarik Maisumov (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Bruno Da Gaucho could well score a knockout today. He has the power to get to Tabarik Maisumov's chin.

Da Gaucho
vs
Maisumov

168 cm
24
141 lbs
6 - 0 - 0

172 cm
25
155 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

Good takedowns
Counter fighter
Big heart

Good wrestler
Brawler
Prefers standup

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the featherweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 6 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Bruno Da Gaucho!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of St Petersburg, Tabarik Maisumov!
The judges for this bout are Anni Minnemäki, Tarja Halkonen and Roosa Järviläinen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Da Gaucho closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Maisumov is trying to stand back up but Da Gaucho is controlling him
Maisumov is staying active underneath Da Gaucho, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Maisumov can do anything to dispel that myth.

Da Gaucho is working for a kimura but Maisumov is defending it quite comfortably.
Maisumov pushes Da Gaucho off looking to stand but Da Gaucho dives back in and keeps control.

Da Gaucho is looking for a kimura here.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Da Gaucho seems to be working for a kimura but Maisumov defends the submission attempt.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Da Gaucho is looking for a kimura but Maisumov is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Da Gaucho to get the leverage.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Da Gaucho is trying to control. Maisumov wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.

Da Gaucho 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.
Da Gaucho prevents Maisumov from standing back up.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Da Gaucho not doing much here.
Da Gaucho is keen to just control but Maisumov is a slippery customer.
Da Gaucho keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

We're going to have a standup here because Bruno Da Gaucho wasn't active enough for the referee's liking.
A head kick by Maisumov misses

and Da Gaucho counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Maisumov keeping moving, preventing Da Gaucho from controlling successfully.
Da Gaucho sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Maisumov avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Da Gaucho trying to control but Maisumov is working from the bottom.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters - he looks like he's thinking about a standup.

We're going to have a standup here because Bruno Da Gaucho wasn't active enough for the referee's liking.
Maisumov tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Da Gaucho avoids the head kick by Maisumov.
Maisumov tries to clinch but Da Gaucho is having none of it.
Da Gaucho avoids the clinch attempt nicely.
Da Gaucho blocks a head kick by Maisumov.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Da Gaucho.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Bruno Da Gaucho dominated that round.
That's time! Da Gaucho's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.

Maisumov throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.

Maisumov moves into the clinch.

Maisumov has clasped his hands together around Da Gaucho's back... aaand, he's got a takedown into side control. Nicely done.
Maisumov working away.
Da Gaucho is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Maisumov has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Da Gaucho is trying to get back to half guard.
You can see the frustration on Da Gaucho's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Da Gaucho wants to get back to his feet.
You can see the frustration on Da Gaucho's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Da Gaucho keeps Maisumov under control for a moment.
Maisumov really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Da Gaucho. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up, due to lack of activity on the part of Bruno Da Gaucho.

Maisumov gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Da Gaucho to score an easy takedown into full guard.
Maisumov wants to get back to his feet but Da Gaucho is in a dominant position and won't allow it.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Da Gaucho wants to control from the top but Maisumov keeps moving.
Da Gaucho controls from within his opponent's guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

We're going to have a standup here because Bruno Da Gaucho wasn't active enough for the referee's liking.
Da Gaucho doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Maisumov counters with a big head kick but Da Gaucho shrugs it off.
Maisumov throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Da Gaucho swats away the attempt to clinch by Maisumov.
Da Gaucho misses with a takedown attempt - Maisumov sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Da Gaucho shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Maisumov but Maisumov pushes him off and we're back to square one.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Bruno Da Gaucho. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Maisumov pulls out of a head kick attempt.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Da Gaucho avoids the head kick by Maisumov.

Maisumov closes the distance and clinches.
Maisumov looks like he'd prefer to be striking at range right now.

Maisumov jumps guard.
Maisumov keeping moving, preventing Da Gaucho from controlling successfully.
Da Gaucho passes Maisumov's left leg - he's now in half guard.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Maisumov won't allow Da Gaucho to pass to mount.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Bruno Da Gaucho will probably get the nod.
That's time! Back to the action!

Da Gaucho moves out of range of the body kick from Maisumov.

Da Gaucho changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Maisumov looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Maisumov stops Da Gaucho from passing to mount.
Da Gaucho prevents Maisumov from escaping the position.
Da Gaucho advances to full mount.
Da Gaucho wants to control the pace but Maisumov is squirming around nicely.
Da Gaucho thuds his fist into the canvas! Oooouch!

That's one minute gone in the round.
Da Gaucho tries to control but Maisumov wriggling away.
Maisumov is not a happy chappy… he wants out of there.

Da Gaucho is working to isolate an arm here. It's a telegraphed submission attempt but he's gone for it anyway - and he's got it! Da Gaucho extends the arm and Maisumov is forced to tap!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:55 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Bruno Da Gaucho!
Bruno Da Gaucho is the new featherweight champion!