MMA Helsinki - 72 PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Connor McManus (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Arvo Penaali (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). McManus comes to the cage accompanied by Jeff Danna - 'The Blood of Cú Chulainn'. Penaali has chosen Immortal Technique - Obnoxius as his entrance music. Both fighters really staring each other down here, as Arvo Penaali enters the cage!

McManus
vs
Penaali

177 cm
32
167 lbs
15 - 15 - 0

180 cm
34
163 lbs
20 - 8 - 1

Abu Dhabi Champ
World class boxer
Insanely flexible

Olympic wrestler
World class boxer
Good gas tank

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 15 - 15 - 0, fighting out of London, Connor McManus!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 20 - 8 - 1, fighting out of Helsinki, Arvo Penaali!
The judges for this bout are Anni Minnemäki, Tarja Halkonen and Matti Vanhoillinen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Penaali looks to score with a jab to the body but McManus is just out of range.
Penaali throws a shot to the body.
A big left from McManus misses.
McManus bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
A big left from Penaali misses.
Penaali slips under a jab from McManus.
Despite the aggression on Penaali's face he doesn't fully commit to the counter.
Penaali misses with a double jab.
Penaali ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
A looping hook to the body misses from Penaali. McManus does a little dance to reset his feet.
A slow jab from McManus misses its intended target.
McManus misses with a right hand
and Penaali counters with a nice uppercut.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Penaali just misses with a punch to the body.
Penaali throws a two punch combo that lands nicely.
Penaali moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
McManus doesn't manage to clinch there - Penaali circles away.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
McManus thuds a left hand into Penaali's body.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Penaali with a jab.
A big left from McManus misses.
Penaali throws out a counter right but McManus avoids it with no problem.
McManus has been working on his boxing with his coaches at The Million Dollar Performance Center in the buildup to the fight.
McManus slips a jab and a cross from Penaali.
McManus appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
McManus keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Penaali.
Penaali uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from McManus.
Penaali shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. McManus defends it nicely.
McManus cracks Penaali with a right hand to the side of the head.

Penaali shoots in and scores a nice double leg takedown into half guard.
McManus avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Penaali.
Penaali is trying to control. McManus wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Penaali not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Penaali scoring with strikes to the body and head.
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. Penaali connects with a nice short shot to McManus's temple.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
McManus keeps control of the position for the meantime.
McManus is trying to maintain the position but Penaali is very close to passing his half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
McManus is staying active underneath Penaali, who seems content to just control the action from this position.
Ground and pound from Penaali.
McManus blocking the ground and pound attempt from Penaali.
Ground and pound from Penaali.
Penaali is just content to waste time from the top position. McManus takes advantage of the situation and regains full guard.

McManus looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Penaali has picked McManus up and slammed him! McManus can't keep hold of the triangle and Penaali manages to pass to side control!

That's three minutes gone in the round.
McManus manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Penaali looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Penaali drops an elbow to the side of McManus's head.
McManus tries to get to full guard but Penaali has control of the leg.

McManus looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Penaali lands a nice short elbow.
McManus is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Penaali scores with a couple of nice shots.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Penaali working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.

Penaali is working for a submission of some sort.

McManus looking for submissions off his back.
Penaali is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Penaali prevents McManus from improving his position.
McManus blocking the ground and pound attempt from Penaali.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

A telegraphed takedown attempt from McManus is defended easily by Penaali.
Arvo Penaali seems to be getting the better of the standup.
McManus uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Penaali.
McManus tries to land a leg kick but Penaali saw it coming and moves away.
Penaali jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Penaali staying out of range there.
Penaali slips under a jab.
Penaali is looking for the big counter here.
McManus misses with a straight right.
McManus walks straight into a jab right on the nose. That one stung - he's blinking and trying to clear his head.
Penaali slaps away a takedown attempt from McManus, before circling back to the center of the mat.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Penaali! But no joy.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Penaali tries to keep at a distance but McManus has taken the fight into the clinch.

Penaali pulls guard effortlessly.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Penaali keeping moving, preventing McManus from controlling successfully.
Penaali controls McManus momentarily but McManus frees himself.
Our spies down at at Bad Pluto! (18 Elite Coach) inform us that Penaali has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?

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

Penaali has his foot on McManus's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. McManus works his way back into a safe position though.
Penaali utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Penaali is trying to keep McManus in close.
Arvo Penaali has got the better of the ground game so far.

Penaali pushes a forearm under McManus's chin to create some space. He's escaped his hips and pivoted quickly for an armbar! Can he extend the arm? Yes, McManus is tapping out! Damn, that was fast!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:57 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Arvo Penaali!
Post fight, Arvo Penaali took to the microphone: 'I wanna thank everybody but i decided to leave the organisation. Gonna talk to the boss about it altough i tried it before but this organisation is like jehovas witness, youre stuck! but this is it, i wanna explore the rest of the worlds fighters!'.

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 bantamweight MMA rules bout between Justus Sheehan Jr (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Clint Lomax (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Sheehan Jr comes to the cage accompanied by Neon Skies. Lomax is bouncing up and down as he enters the arena, backed by Ace of Spades. I don't know about you partner, but I'm pumped for this one!

Sheehan Jr
vs
Lomax

168 cm
32
145 lbs
21 - 11 - 0

170 cm
42
141 lbs
62 - 19 - 4

Good wrestling
World class boxer
Granite chin

Good wrestler
World class MT
Heavy handed

SP Ultimate Nutrition
Fury Nutrition Inc.

GREEN!160
HGH Nutrients Q160 Tycoons Best Quality supps

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 21 - 11 - 0, fighting out of Montreal, Justus Sheehan Jr!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 62 - 19 - 4, fighting out of St Petersburg, Clint Lomax!
The judges for this bout are Marco Blurström, Matti Vanhoillinen and Anni Minnemäki.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Lomax blocks a head kick by Sheehan Jr.
Lomax throws out a counter right but Sheehan Jr avoids it with no problem.
Lomax scores with a shot to the body.
Sheehan Jr throws a big shot that misses.
Lomax now looks to counter with a shot at the body.
Lomax rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
and Sheehan Jr counters with a body kick that stops Lomax in his tracks momentarily.
Lomax misses with a body shot.
Sheehan Jr is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Sheehan Jr missing with a left hand there. Lomax was out of range so wasted energy throwing that one.
Sheehan Jr throws a head kick but Lomax moves out of range.
Lomax throws a right high kick that is partially blocked by Sheehan Jr.

Lomax has taken the fight to the clinch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Sheehan Jr wants to strike at distance but he can't break free of the clinch.
Sheehan Jr blocks a punch to the side of the head.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Sheehan Jr.
Lomax goes for a body shot but it's blocked.
Lomax swings away with an uppercut that misses.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Lomax fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
A nice right hand lands inside from Lomax.
Lomax swings wildly with an uppercut but Sheehan Jr uses good head movement to avoid it.
Sheehan Jr working hard to break the clinch.
Sheehan Jr blocks a body shot from Lomax.
Lomax misses with a body punch.
Lomax lands an uppercut.
Lomax swings wildly with an uppercut but Sheehan Jr uses good head movement to avoid it.
Sheehan Jr's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Lomax lands with a left to the head.
A nice right hand lands inside from Lomax.
Lomax fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Lomax misses with a hook from the clinch.
Lomax swings wildly with an uppercut but Sheehan Jr uses good head movement to avoid it.
Lomax tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Lomax fails to land with a short punch on the inside.
Lomax tried to land a shot to the body but connects with Sheehan Jr's elbow.
Lomax makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Lomax tries a body shot but Sheehan Jr blocks it.
Lomax prevents Sheehan Jr from breaking the clinch.
Sheehan Jr wants to break free. God knows he wants to breaaaak freeee.
Lomax tries a body shot but Sheehan Jr blocks it.

Sheehan Jr breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Lomax moves out of range of the strikes.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Lomax! But no joy.
Lomax scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Sheehan Jr swinging wildly here.
Sheehan Jr cracks Lomax with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Sheehan Jr fails to land with a series of punches.
Lomax wants to land a leg kick but Sheehan Jr is out of range.
Sheehan Jr throws a low kick but Lomax avoids it.
Lomax looks for the body kick but Sheehan Jr saw that one coming.
Sheehan Jr throws a body kick, spinning off balance
and Lomax counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Sheehan Jr keeps the fight on the outside.
Sheehan Jr moves away from the strike by Lomax.
Sheehan Jr looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Sheehan Jr's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Lomax connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Sheehan Jr scrambles back to his feet.
Nice cross by Lomax.
Lomax lands a body shot.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Lomax ducks under a wild hook from Sheehan Jr.
Lomax clobbers Sheehan Jr with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
A slow jab from Lomax misses its intended target.
Lomax throws a leg kick that misses.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Lomax's jab looks to have found its range, popping Sheehan Jr under the eye.
Lomax ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Sheehan Jr moves away.
A nice leg kick lands there from Lomax.
Lomax scores with a hook to the body. Sheehan Jr takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Sheehan Jr takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Lomax swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Lomax avoids the head kick by Sheehan Jr.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Clint Lomax dominated that round.
That's time! Sheehan Jr's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.

Lomax misses with a body kick.
Sheehan Jr scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
Lomax throws a leg kick but Sheehan Jr sees it coming and checks it nicely.
Sheehan Jr cracks Lomax with a good jab.
Lomax misses with a hook
and Sheehan Jr counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.
Sheehan Jr takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Lomax has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Lomax scores with a jab to the jaw of his opponent.
Lomax scores with a nice strike.
Lomax looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Lomax has been working his punching technique in the buildup to the fight and it appears to be paying off.
Lomax looks for the body kick but Sheehan Jr saw that one coming.
Sheehan Jr throwing a counter right hand but Lomax manages to avoid it.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Lomax uses good footwork to get in and out and land a nice right hand before Sheehan Jr has time to react.
Sheehan Jr misses with a body kick.
Sheehan Jr backing away here, and Lomax unleashes a leg kick that just misses.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Lomax connects with a good right hand that stumbles Sheehan Jr. Sheehan Jr circles away out of range and recomposes himself.
Lomax on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Clint Lomax seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Sheehan Jr bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Sheehan Jr appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
Lomax throws a solid leg kick but Sheehan Jr takes the impact on his shin and smiles at Lomax.
Lomax connects with a body shot that sends Sheehan Jr's belly button to the back.
That kick from Sheehan Jr tenderised Lomax's leg. Lomax is trying to keep his angry face on.
Sheehan Jr tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Sheehan Jr throws a combination. Lomax tries to block but a couple of punches get through.
Sheehan Jr slips under a jab.
Sheehan Jr is looking for a counter combo.
Lomax throws a nice inside leg kick.
Sheehan Jr throws a combination but comes up with nothing but fresh air.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Lomax bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Sheehan Jr looks to land a left hand but Lomax moved out of range nicely.
Sheehan Jr has not gone for a single takedown so far in this fight, which seems like a very strange tactic when you consider that he has the superior wrestling and BJJ.
A slapping leg kick lands for Sheehan Jr.
Sheehan Jr has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Lomax.
Lomax avoids the head kick by Sheehan Jr.
Sheehan Jr fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Sheehan Jr avoids a kick to the body.
Sheehan Jr misses with a wild combination.
Lomax's corner calls for a 1-2. Lomax obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Lomax just misses with a punch to the body.
Sheehan Jr throws an overhand right that lands on Lomax's shoulder, as Lomax tries to avoid the shot.
Sheehan Jr buckles his opponent's knee momentarily with a nice leg kick.
Lomax thumps Sheehan Jr with a low kick.
Sheehan Jr takes a nasty kick to the mid section... That should keep him thinking. Does he try and block and risk a head kick landing?
Justus Sheehan Jr is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Sheehan Jr walks into a straight right hand from Lomax.
Lomax throws out a loose jab but Sheehan Jr uses good head movement to avoid it.
A shot to the liver by Lomax. Beautiful body shot.
Sheehan Jr ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Sheehan Jr fires out a quick counter leg kick but Lomax just manages to avoid it.
Sheehan Jr misses with a lunging right hand
and Lomax cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Sheehan Jr throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Lomax misses with a kick to the body.
Lomax comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Lomax throws a hook to the side of Sheehan Jr's head but Sheehan Jr sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Sheehan Jr is looking for a counter combo.
Sheehan Jr on the wrong end of a kick to the body.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Lomax misses the jab.
Lomax wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Sheehan Jr takes a jab on the nose there. A little bit of blood seems to be coming out. Hopefully that won't affect his breathing.
Sheehan Jr throws a head kick but Lomax moves out of range.
Lomax cracks Sheehan Jr with a nice right hand that draws applause from the crowd.
Lomax drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Sheehan Jr throws a body shot but no joy.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Clint Lomax showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! This is the final round!

Lomax throws an overhand right that lands on Sheehan Jr's shoulder, as Sheehan Jr tries to avoid the shot.
Sheehan Jr ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Lomax moves away.
Sheehan Jr backing away here, and Lomax unleashes a leg kick that just misses.
Lomax dips to his left and cracks Sheehan Jr with an uppercut!
Lomax lands with a straight right. Sheehan Jr didn't see that one coming.
Lomax scores with a nice strike.
Lomax wings a very wild body shot but it does the job and lands to the midsection.
Sheehan Jr throws out a powerful jab.
Sheehan Jr throws a head kick but Lomax moves out of range.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Lomax throws an overhand right that lands on Sheehan Jr's shoulder, as Sheehan Jr tries to avoid the shot.
It looked like Sheehan Jr wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Lomax tries a low kick but Sheehan Jr avoids it.
Sheehan Jr swung with a counter right hand that didn't connect.
Lomax connects with a solid leg kick.
Lomax throws a jab but it's blocked by Sheehan Jr.
It looked like Sheehan Jr was looking amped, ready to throw a big counter but didn't commit.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Lomax lands with a cross to side of his opponent's head.
Sheehan Jr moves into range and throws a lovely three punch combination.
Lomax cracks Sheehan Jr with a good jab.
Lomax on the receiving end of a decent leg kick there by Sheehan Jr. Sheehan Jr obviously looking to wear him down.
Lomax dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Sheehan Jr. That did some damage!
Lomax tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Sheehan Jr was well out of range. Poor timing from Lomax.
Sheehan Jr throws a quick counter head kick but Lomax was just out of range.
A head kick misses from Sheehan Jr.
Lomax misses with a looping right.
Sheehan Jr throws a poor cross that misses
and Lomax makes him pay by landing a thudding low kick.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Sheehan Jr looks to land a right hand but Lomax moved out of range.
A nice leg kick lands there from Lomax.
A decent looking body kick lands there for Lomax.
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!
Sheehan Jr takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.
Some bone on bone action there as Sheehan Jr checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one.
Lomax has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Lomax there as he acknowledges the shot.
Sheehan Jr defending well as Lomax loads up on a big left hand.
Sheehan Jr appears to be looking for a big counter.
Sheehan Jr fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Lomax manages to avoid it.
Lomax throws out a counter right but Sheehan Jr avoids it with no problem.
Lomax looks to land a left hand but Sheehan Jr moved out of range nicely.
Sheehan Jr was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Sheehan Jr lunges at Lomax with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Lomax's hand.
Sheehan Jr avoids the body shot from Lomax.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Lomax waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Sheehan Jr.
A big left from Sheehan Jr misses.
Sheehan Jr throws a sloppy head kick and Lomax moves out of range easily.
Sheehan Jr is hobbling a little on that front leg after taking quite a few leg kicks so far in this fight.
Lomax scores with a crisp jab that stopped Sheehan Jr in his tracks.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Lomax.
Sheehan Jr throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Lomax connects with a body shot that sends Sheehan Jr's belly button to the back.
Sheehan Jr staying out of range there.
Sheehan Jr chopping away at his opponent's legs.
Sheehan Jr misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Sheehan Jr throws an off balance right hand
and Lomax counters with a lovely straight right hand!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
This fight brought to you by 5M nutrition - it's mmmmm tasty. Nice jab by Sheehan Jr.
Lomax misses with a low kick as Sheehan Jr jumps back.
Lomax throws a body shot but no joy.
Sheehan Jr throws a quick counter head kick but Lomax was just out of range.
A good leg kick by Lomax.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Sheehan Jr misses with the combination.
Lomax clobbers Sheehan Jr with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Lomax throws out a powerful jab.
Sheehan Jr throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Justus Sheehan Jr has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Lomax looks to land a body kick but Sheehan Jr moved away.
Sheehan Jr tried to counter with a leg kick but Lomax avoided it.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Marco Blurström scores the fight 27:30
Judge Matti Vanhoillinen scores the fight 27:30
Judge Anni Minnemäki scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Clint Lomax!
A very excited looking Clint Lomax rambled incoherently for about 5 minutes post fight about how awesome he is. It was kinda funny for a while but then everyone got annoyed.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
60%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Paul Gregory (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Giampaolo Pietravallo (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Gregory comes to the cage accompanied by Chumbawamba - English Rebel Songs. Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Gregory
vs
Pietravallo

192 cm
36
205 lbs
18 - 21 - 0

195 cm
35
210 lbs
15 - 7 - 0

Good wrestling
World class MT
Insanely flexible

Good wrestler
World class boxer
Good gas tank

FinnFighter Nutrition (Five 160Q supps!)

GREEN!160
KAISER

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the light heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 18 - 21 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Paul Gregory!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 15 - 7 - 0, fighting out of St Petersburg, Giampaolo Pietravallo!
The judges for this bout are Matti Vanhoillinen, Roosa Järviläinen and Arvi Lind.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
A punch combination from Gregory misses.
Pietravallo feints the counter takedown.
Pietravallo swats away the attempt to clinch by Gregory.
Pietravallo looks to score with a jab to the body but Gregory is just out of range.
Pietravallo lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Gregory looks to have improved his striking defense since last time we saw him fight.
An inside leg kick lands from Pietravallo.
Pietravallo has been spending a lot of time sparring his boxing in the run up to the fight, trying to sharpen up those hands and look for a knockout.
Gregory tries to close the distance and clinch but Pietravallo swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Gregory throws out a loose jab but Pietravallo uses good head movement to avoid it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Gregory closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.

Gregory pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Gregory tries to close the distance and clinch up but Pietravallo swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Pietravallo with the counter takedown but Gregory avoids it easily.
Gregory steps to his left, right into the path of a big body kick from Pietravallo. That one must have hurt.
Gregory misses with a two punch combination.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Gregory doesn't manage to clinch there - Pietravallo circles away.
Pietravallo misses with an attempted mid kick.
Pietravallo looks to throw the jab but Gregory is out of range.
Pietravallo misses with a hook.

Gregory moves into range and clinches up with Pietravallo.
Pietravallo lands a body punch.
Pietravallo lands with a short shot to the head.
Gregory blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Pietravallo doesn't land with the attempted body shot.

Pietravallo's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Gregory tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Pietravallo paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Pietravallo is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Gregory looks to land a combination but Pietravallo avoids it well.
Gregory takes one on the chin but keeps coming.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Pietravallo cracks a nice hook into Gregory's ribs.
Paul Gregory is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Pietravallo throws out a powerful jab.
A punch combination from Gregory misses.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Gregory tries to close the distance and clinch up but Pietravallo swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Pietravallo changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Gregory is looking to clinch.
Pietravallo lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Gregory tries to bum rush Pietravallo with a series of wild strikes but Pietravallo uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Pietravallo throws a body punch but Gregory moves out of range.
Pietravallo lands a jab to the head.
Gregory looking to land some kicks to the body here.
Pietravallo fakes the leg kick and cracks Gregory in the body.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Good work by Gregory as he checks the leg kick.
As Pietravallo looks to move away, Gregory throws a big counter combo bu Pietravallo just gets out of the way.
Pietravallo tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Gregory was well out of range. Poor timing from Pietravallo.
Pietravallo lands a lovely overhand right.
Pietravallo looks to land a body kick but Gregory moved away.
Pietravallo takes a swing at Gregory's ribcage but misses.
Pietravallo changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Gregory tries to avoid it but Pietravallo manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Gregory to the ground. Gregory escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Gregory tries to counter by clinching up but Pietravallo breaks away and moves out of range.
Pietravallo walks into a jab.
Gregory tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Pietravallo paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Gregory throws a nice looking combination but Pietravallo bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Pietravallo throws a leg kick but he was too far away and it doesn't land.
Pietravallo jabs Gregory right on the nose. Gregory blinks but takes it well.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gregory goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
Pietravallo misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
No joy there for Gregory, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Pietravallo with the counter takedown but Gregory avoids it easily.
Pietravallo throws a leg kick but Gregory sees it coming and moves out of range.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Pietravallo throws a poor cross that misses
and he gets countered with a snapping leg kick.
Pietravallo lands with a cross.
Pietravallo fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Gregory manages to avoid it.
Pietravallo throws a lazy body kick
and Gregory cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Gregory moves out of range of the strikes.
Gregory fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Pietravallo checks it well.
Pietravallo throws a leg kick
and Gregory counters with a left and a right that stings Pietravallo.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Giampaolo Pietravallo 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.

Pietravallo tests Gregory's chin there with a solid looking shot.
Pietravallo sizes up Gregory with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Gregory lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Pietravallo circles away quickly and effectively.
Pietravallo misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Gregory.
Gregory tries to counter by clinching up but Pietravallo breaks away and moves out of range.
Gregory takes an uppercut right on the button but keeps his composure.
Pietravallo checks the leg kick nicely there.
Pietravallo has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Gregory has his front leg slapped to the side - a nice low kick landing there from Pietravallo.
Paul Gregory is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Pietravallo throws a body shot but no joy.
Pietravallo lands a jab.
Pietravallo pivots, looking for a leg kick but Gregory is out of range and Pietravallo settles back down.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Pietravallo misses with a head kick.
Gregory tries to counter by clinching up but Pietravallo breaks away and moves out of range.
Pietravallo lands a pitter patter jab to the forehead of his opponent.
An inside leg kick lands from Gregory.
Gregory throws a head kick that misses.
Pietravallo throws a leg kick
and Gregory counters with a straight right hand.
Pietravallo throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
Gregory swinging wildly here.
Gregory misses with a two punch combination.
Pietravallo will need to close the distance a bit before he attacks - that leg kick was thrown from too far away.
Gregory throwing a counter right hand but Pietravallo manages to avoid it.
The fight stays on the outside here - Gregory looks like he's thinking about clinching though.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Gregory misses with a body shot.
Pietravallo lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Gregory at a distance.
Giampaolo Pietravallo seems to be getting the better of the standup.
Gregory thuds a mid kick into his opponent's body. That will wear on Pietravallo if he has to take too many more of those.
Good shot there by Pietravallo.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Pietravallo misses the jab.
The sound of bone on bone echoes around the arena as Pietravallo checks a leg kick.
Pietravallo throws a looping overhand right but Gregory ducks down to avoid it.
Giampaolo Pietravallo seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Pietravallo looks to land a right hand but Gregory moved out of range.
Gregory misses with a double jab.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Gregory, as that shot connected.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Gregory throws out a loose jab but Pietravallo uses good head movement to avoid it.
Pietravallo lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Gregory at a distance.
Gregory tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Pietravallo manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Pietravallo, as that shot connected.
Pietravallo throws a leg kick that misses.
Pietravallo keeps the fight on the outside.
Pietravallo feints with a shoulder and throws a nice leg kick to Gregory's calf.
Gregory blocks a leg kick.
Gregory appears to be looking for a big counter.
Pietravallo connects with a crisp jab.

Pietravallo closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gregory trying to remain calm as Pietravallo controls from the top position.
Pietravallo in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
Pietravallo working the ground and pound from side control.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Pietravallo landing a few strikes.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Pietravallo working the body and head with strikes.
Pietravallo tries to move into full mount but can't pass Gregory's legs.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Pietravallo tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
Gregory seems a little lost for a moment, as Pietravallo dominates the positioning.
Gregory taking a bit of punishment here - Pietravallo scoring with strikes.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Ouch! a nice leg kick from Pietravallo, right into the meat.
Gregory moves in looking to clinch but Pietravallo pushes him off.
Pietravallo keeps the fight on the outside.
Pietravallo feints the counter takedown.
Pietravallo comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
Pietravallo cracks a nice hook into Gregory's ribs.
Gregory looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Pietravallo changes levels for a counter takedown but doesn't follow through with his attempt.
Gregory throws a one two combo.
Gregory shuffles to his left behind two crisp jabs. Pietravallo eats them both and turns towards Gregory to reposition himself and eats a stinging right hand-left hook combo.
No joy there for Gregory, who threw a few shots but didn't land.
Pietravallo cracks Gregory with a hook to the jaw. Both fighters smile at eachother and high-five before getting back down to business.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.

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

That's one minute gone in the round.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Pietravallo.
Gregory leaning his opponent against the cage.
Gregory throws an elbow but it misses.
Gregory pushes off and fires off an elbow that misses, before clinching up again, against the cage.
Pietravallo lands a body punch - he's looking to wear down Gregory.
A battle for position here, against the cage.
Pietravallo lands a nice uppercut.
Gregory has had enough of the clinch but Pietravallo keeps him there for the moment.
Gregory lands a glancing elbow in the clinch.
Pietravallo is trying to stall.
Gregory looking to slow down the pace here.
Gregory stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Pietravallo is trying to stall.
Gregory will no doubt start fighting again in a minute but for now he's just having a little rest, leaning Pietravallo up against the cage.
Gregory wants to break free but Pietravallo has control.
Pietravallo tries to break the clinch but Gregory is controlling the position.
Pietravallo blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Gregory tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.

Gregory breaks the clinch.
Gregory scores with a nice looking left hook and follows it up with an uppercut!
Gregory drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Pietravallo moves into range and lands 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!
Gregory 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.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Pietravallo thows a left - swing and a miss!

Gregory fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Pietravallo, pushing him back against the cage.
Pietravallo misses with the head strike.
Pietravallo can't break the clinch.
Gregory prevents a body shot from Pietravallo.

Pietravallo breaks from the clinch.
Gregory misses with a two punch combination.
Gregory misses with a straight left.
Pietravallo tries a head kick but it misses.
Gregory takes a punch right to his stomach. That took the wind out of him momentarily.
Nice shot by Pietravallo.
Pietravallo scores with a nice body kick.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Pietravallo lands a leg kick that knocks Gregory off balance momentarily.
Gregory tries to close the distance and clinch but Pietravallo swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Gregory throws a right and a left that Pietravallo avoids nicely.
Gregory tries to score with a low kick but Pietravallo moves his leg out of the way.
Pietravallo is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
Gregory needs to keep his hands up - Pietravallo had a free shot at his head there.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Pietravallo misses with a hook
and Gregory counters with a nice uppercut.
Gregory misses with a wild combination.
Gregory misses with a few strikes there.
Paul Gregory has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Gregory scores with a punch to the head.

And that's the end of the fight!
Paul Gregory showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Pietravallo has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. 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 Matti Vanhoillinen scores the fight 28:29
Judge Roosa Järviläinen scores the fight 28:29
Judge Arvi Lind scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Giampaolo Pietravallo!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
55%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Eliézer Machado (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Ludwig Manres (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Machado comes to the cage accompanied by Kim Carnes - Bette Davis Eyes. Manres has chosen Aqualung - Jethro Tull as his entrance music, which hasn't gone down very well with the crowd. Ludwig Manres has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Machado
vs
Manres

184 cm
36
177 lbs
22 - 21 - 1

182 cm
39
187 lbs
29 - 30 - 1

Great wrestler
World class boxer
Insanely flexible

BJJ Red Belt
Excellent MT
Good gas tank

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 22 - 21 - 1, fighting out of Helsinki, Eliézer Machado!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 29 - 30 - 1, fighting out of Helsinki, Ludwig Manres!
The judges for this bout are Ben Zyskovitsi, Johanna Lukiainen and Matti Vanhoillinen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Machado lands with an uppercut that bounces Manres off the cage and back into range.
Manres walks into a stiff left hand from Machado.
Machado waving his hands out in front of him, looking to distract Manres.
Machado throws a hook but Manres avoids it easily.
A telegraphed right hand from Machado misses the target.

Machado fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Manres, pushing him back against the cage.
Manres wants to take the fight to the mat but Machado manages to get underhooks and keep the fight in the clinch.
Machado tries to throw a body punch but Manres avoids it by throwing Machado back against the cage.
Machado lands a left hand.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Machado creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
A nice right hand lands inside from Machado.
Manres fails to pull the fight into his guard.

Manres breaks from the clinch.

Manres closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Machado's guard.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Machado keeping full guard, as Manres tries to pass.
Machado is controlling Manres's posture.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Machado utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Machado pulls Manres in close to prevent any damage.
Manres wants to pass the guard but Machado is keeping the position.
Manres trying to move into half guard but instead Machado has managed to sweep!

The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

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

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Machado tries to stand but Manres is controlling from the bottom.
Machado is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Machado looking to sit in guard and control but Manres gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.

Machado avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Manres trying to control but Machado is working from the bottom.
Manres in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Manres trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.
Manres keeps trying to improve his position.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Machado throws a body punch but Manres moves out of range.
Manres drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Machado defends it well.
Machado misses with a body shot.
Machado throws an ugly left hook that misses

and Manres counters with a shoot takedown. Machado fights it but they end up in guard.
Manres trying to control the position from guard on top but Machado is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Manres looking to pass the guard.
Manres chips away with some ground and pound.
Manres throws a big right hand that misses.
Machado keeping full guard, as Manres tries to pass.
Manres trying to move into half guard but instead Machado has managed to sweep!

The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.

Manres working for a triangle but Machado defends it easily.
Machado stopping the sweep attempt from Manres.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Eliézer Machado will probably get the nod.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!

Manres shapes like he's going to throw a leg kick but settles back down.
We've been told by Machado's head coaches at IMMA Gym of Elite ASS that he's been working on his takedown defense in preparation for this fight.
Machado moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Machado throws a hook to the side of Manres's head but Manres sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Manres misses with a takedown attempt - Machado sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.
Manres fails with a takedown attempt.
Machado tries to clinch but Manres is having none of it.
Manres fails with a takedown attempt.
Eliézer Machado has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ludwig Manres.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Machado misses with a straight right.
Machado moves in looking to clinch but Manres pushes him off.
Machado rushes in with a sloppy looking punch

and Manres decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Machado's guard.
Manres preventing the sweep.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Manres pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Machado is keeping the position for now.
Manres throwing shots from guard but he's hitting more mat than opponent.
Manres tries to free his leg and advance position but Machado is retaining full guard.
Manres throws a big right hand that misses.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.
Manres stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Machado swivels though and keeps the full guard.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Machado pushing out the jab but it's not landing.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A few boos can be heard. I'm sure they will multiply if the fighters don't pick up the pace.
Manres walks straight into an uppercut. Luckily it didn't land flush.
Manres takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Machado misses with an uppercut.
Machado tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Manres was well out of range. Poor timing from Machado.
Machado misses with a looping right.
Manres steps in looking to clinch after the strikes miss from Machado.
Manres ducks under a wild hook from Machado.
Manres is definitely looking for the counter takedowns here.
The crowd cheers as Machado lands an impressive looking overhand right. Manres doesn't seem phased though.

Machado fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Manres, pushing him back against the cage.
Machado gets underhooks to prevent Manres's takedown attempt.
Manres jumps guard but his hands slip and he falls flat on his back. Well, he's made himself look a right mug there, as Machado walks away with a smile on his face. Manres gets slowly back to his feet and shakes his head.
Machado darts in trying to clinch

and Manres counters with a shoot takedown. Machado fights it but they end up in guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Machado keeping moving, preventing Manres from controlling successfully.
Manres trying to move into half guard but instead Machado has managed to sweep!

Machado trying to control but Manres is working from the bottom.
Machado stopping the sweep attempt from Manres.
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.
Machado trying to control the position from guard on top but Manres is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Manres looking for a sweep. Not yet Manres, not yet.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Manres keeping moving, preventing Machado from controlling successfully.
Manres not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Eliézer Machado is winning the standup battle so far.
Machado fails with an attempt to clinch.
Machado displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Manres.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Machado jabs Manres right on the nose. Manres blinks but takes it well.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Eliézer Machado dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!

Machado just misses with a punch to the body.
Machado with a nice cross.
Manres gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily

and Machado counters by moving into the clinch.
Manres tries to pull guard but can't drag his opponent to the mat. Machado just stands there and leans against the cage.
Manres is looking for a takedown.
Eliézer Machado has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Ludwig Manres.
Manres fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Machado gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Manres.
Machado throws a head punch that misses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Manres gets the body lock takedown. After a quick scramble, Machado regains guard.
Machado pulls Manres in close to his closed guard and prevents Manres from doing any damage or advancing position.
Manres pushes down on Machado's leg and manages to get into half guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Manres is keen to just control but Machado is a slippery customer.
Manres is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Manres trying to mount his opponent but Machado defends it.
Manres wants to lay and pray for a moment but Machado keeps working.
Manres throws a strike but Machado avoids it easily and moves to full guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Machado keeping full guard, as Manres tries to pass.
Machado keeping moving, preventing Manres from controlling successfully.
Machado looking for a sweep. Not yet Machado, not yet.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.
Machado keeping moving, preventing Manres from controlling successfully.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Machado is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.
Machado's corner calls for a 1-2. Machado obliges with the 1 part as he scores the single shot and moves back out of range.
Machado cracks Manres with a right hand to the side of the head.
Machado misses with a looping right.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Manres shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Machado but Machado pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Machado scores with a nice right hand.
Manres takes a hook to the side of the head. I wonder if that's got his ears ringing.
Manres on the wrong end of a nice hook.
Nice uppercut there from Machado.

Machado rushes Manres and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
Machado lands a glancing elbow in the clinch.
Manres tries to pull guard but Machado won't allow it.
Machado gets underhooks to prevent Manres's takedown attempt.
A head punch on the inside from Machado fails to land.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Machado creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Machado misses with a hook to the ribs.
Machado lands an elbow just above Manres 's eye.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Machado lands with a short head shot on the inside.
Manres looking for a takedown.
Machado misses with a shot to the kidneys.
Machado tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Manres is working on a leg, looking for a takedown but Machado is defending well.
Manres blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Eliézer Machado has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Manres is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Machado pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Manres tries to pull guard but Machado won't allow it.
Manres prevents a body shot from Machado.
Machado throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Manress head.
Manres is trying to pull guard but being pressed up against the cage enables Machado to keep the fight standing.
Machado gets double underhooks to prevent a takedown attempt from Manres.
Ludwig Manres has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Manres takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Machado scores with a shot to the side of Manres's head.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Ben Zyskovitsi scores the fight 30:27
Judge Johanna Lukiainen scores the fight 30:27
Judge Matti Vanhoillinen scores the fight 29:28

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Eliézer Machado!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
38%

Main event

Coming up we have a bantamweight MMA rules bout between Jeff Hecker (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Kalle Kula (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Hecker comes to the cage accompanied by The Ultimate Warrior. The crowd seem to be enjoying Kula's choice of entrance music: Bullet - Bite the Bullet. Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Hecker
vs
Kula

175 cm
33
135 lbs
23 - 14 - 0

158 cm
29
133 lbs
19 - 15 - 0

Good wrestling
Solid boxing
Granite chin

Excellent grappler
Basic striking
Powerful

Spartan Nutrition
BlackStar Athletics

Fury Nutrition Inc.

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 23 - 14 - 0, fighting out of New York, Jeff Hecker!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 19 - 15 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Kalle Kula!
The judges for this bout are Roosa Järviläinen, Tarja Halkonen and Marco Blurström.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Kula dives in and scores a takedown into Hecker's guard.

Kula drops back looking for a leg! Hecker is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Hecker manages to kick Kula off! Kula jumps back into Hecker's guard.
Hecker is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Kula stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Hecker swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Hecker working a defensive guard here.
Kula looking to pass the guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hecker controls Kula momentarily but Kula frees himself.

Kula 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.
Kula is pushing down on Hecker's leg trying to pass to half guard. Hecker is fighting to maintain full guard but Kula has managed to sneak the leg through.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Kula is looking for a kimura here.
Hecker is concentrating on defense, preventing Kula from advancing position.

Kula is trying for a guillotine from the top but the pressure isn't in the right place so Hecker is just riding it out for now. Kula eventually gives up the hold.
Hecker trying to control from the bottom.

Kula is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Kula working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Hecker is trying to get back to full guard.
Hecker tries to kick Kula off but Kula keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.

Hecker is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Kula pulls his head out easily.

Kula is working for a kimura but Hecker is defending it quite comfortably.
Hecker tries to roll over but Kula keeps him under control.
Hecker gets full guard.

Kula has gone for a leg lock! Hecker slips out almost immediately though and dives into Kula's guard.

Kula bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Hecker's guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Kula preventing the sweep.
Hecker wants to get back to his feet but Kula is in a dominant position and won't allow it.
Kula being controlled here momentarily.
Hecker is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Hecker will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Hecker looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Hecker is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.

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

That's four minutes gone in the round.
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Kula looking to pass the guard.
Hecker is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.

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

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

Hecker throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!

Hecker looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Hecker is looking to take a break and control but Kula is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kalle Kula dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!

Hecker 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.
Hecker trying to control the position from guard on top but Kula is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Kula has his foot on Hecker's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Hecker works his way back into a safe position though.
Kula keeping moving, preventing Hecker from controlling successfully.
Hecker wants to get up but he can't break Kula's closed guard. He needs to be careful trying to break the legs open, as he's open to submissions here.
Kalle Kula has got the better of the ground game so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Kula escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Hecker gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Hecker trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Hecker trying to control but Kula is working from the bottom.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Kula is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Hecker is aware though and is defending well.
Hecker 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.
Kula working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Hecker.
Kula keeping full guard, as Hecker tries to pass.
We've been hearing that Hecker has been drilling a lot of ground and pound in training, so let's see if he get the finish.
Kula utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Kula wants to sweep here but Hecker controlling him for the moment.
Hecker trying to control the position from guard on top but Kula is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Kula shoots in for a takedown but Hecker shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Hecker connects with a slap. Keep your fist closed son.

Kula gets caught napping as Hecker dives in and scores a takedown. Kula manages to retain guard.
Hecker trying to control but Kula is working from the bottom.
Kula working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Hecker.
Hecker trying to control the position from guard on top but Kula is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Hecker avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Hecker wants to pass the guard but Kula is keeping the position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Kula keeping moving, preventing Hecker from controlling successfully.
Hecker throws a big right hand that misses.
Hecker chips away with some ground and pound.
Hecker won't allow Kula to sweep him here.

Kula is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Hecker defends well.
Hecker throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Kula works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Hecker is in close to Kula's body, working some short punches and elbows.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.
Hecker wants to control from the top but Kula keeps moving.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Hecker accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Hecker postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Kula takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Hecker closes the distance and lands a one-two.
Hecker scores with a nice looking left hook and follows it up with an uppercut!

Kula is rocked!
Hecker displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Kula.
Hecker wants to take advantage of his opponent's missed offense by moving into the clinch.
Kula is still on wobbly legs! Can Hecker finish him?
Kula shoots in for a double leg but Hecker sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Kula seems to have recovered his senses.
Jeff Hecker has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Kalle Kula.
Kula is breathing heavily.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.

Hecker looking for a takedown here - he's got it.
Hecker trying to control the position from guard on top but Kula is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Jeff Hecker dominated that second round.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action. This is the final round!

Kula shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Hecker as he jumps to the side.
Jeff Hecker is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Kula darts in looking for a takedown but Hecker gets double underhooks and turns Kula into the cage.
Hecker lands three nice shots there - that looked like it hurt!
Hecker scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
Hecker rushes forward with a series of wild hooks but Kula moves out of range and avoids them all easily.

Hecker decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
Hecker is looking to take a break and control but Kula is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Kula is looking to improve his position.
Kula takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
Hecker not landing any meaningful shots this time.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hecker is keen to just control but Kula is a slippery customer.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Hecker working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.
Hecker really does look like a pencil wearing a pair of gloves. Let's hope he has a gameplan to suit that ridiculous body shape.
Hecker scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Hecker is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Kula can do to turn this around?
Hecker looks over to his corner - he wants some instructions but his corner are not responding.
Hecker tries to pass the half guard into mount. Kula knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Hecker is trying to control. Kula wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
My god... these two guys really need to pick up the pace or everyone will leave to go get a beer.
Kula is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Hecker thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Kula's head.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Hecker stuffs a takedown. It's all about dictating where the fight takes place and Hecker wants it to stay on the feet.
Jeff Hecker has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Kalle Kula.
A combination from Hecker does no damage.

Hecker decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
Hecker is looking to take a break and control but Kula is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Hecker with a momentary lay and pray from half guard.
Hecker throwing punches and elbows but they're not doing any damage.
Kula is pressing down on Hecker's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Hecker trying to control but Kula is working from the bottom.
Hecker throwing strikes from guard but Kula blocks nicely.
Hecker trying to control the position from guard on top but Kula is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
It looks like the ref is thinking about a standup.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.

Hecker scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Hecker lands a decent elbow from side control.
Hecker misses with the ground and pound.
Hecker tries to advance to mount but Kula denies him.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Hecker wants to lay and pray for a moment but Kula keeps working.
Hecker scores with a couple of short elbows.
Kula tries to improve position but can't.

Hecker is trying to get an arm triangle but Kula is defending well.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Hecker is looking to take a break and control but Kula is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.

And that's the end of the fight!
Jeff Hecker showed his dominance in that final round.
Well Hecker 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 Roosa Järviläinen scores the fight 29:27
Judge Tarja Halkonen scores the fight 29:27
Judge Marco Blurström scores the fight 29:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Jeff Hecker!
Jeff Hecker managed to slip a mention for his sponsors, BlackStar Athletics , into his post fight interview.
Kalle Kula spoke after the fight, saying 'Tonight he was stronger then me, but I'll come back, better and stronger then ever! Thanks to all my fans for showing your support!!'.