Helsinki Fighting League: 32 PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Giorgos Veli (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Shannon Larratt (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Giorgos Veli has a significant reach advantage - let's see if he can make it count.

Veli
vs
Larratt

200 cm
25
160 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

178 cm
19
159 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

BJJ Brown Belt
Basic striking
Cuts easily

Good wrestler
Counter fighter
Fast

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 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of St Petersburg, Giorgos Veli!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Shannon Larratt!
The judges for this bout are Matti Vanhoillinen, Johanna Lukiainen and Tarja Halkonen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Veli with a poor takedown

and Larratt decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Veli's guard.
Larratt postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Larratt missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Veli will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Larratt throwing strikes but missing.
Larratt working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Larratt in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Larratt trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Larratt trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Larratt must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Larratt missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Veli shoots in but doesn't get the takedown

and Larratt counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Larratt in full guard, throwing the ground and pound. No damage this time.
Larratt trying to land body shots but he keeps hitting the mat.
Veli is breathing heavily.
Larratt lands a nice shot whilst sitting in his opponent's guard.
In the pre-fight buildup videos we saw Larratt working his ground and pound in the gym. He isn't landing a great percentage of his ground strikes so far though.
Larratt missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Veli working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Larratt.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Larratt throws a big elbow that misses.
Larratt with a flurry of punches that miss.
Veli being controlled here, momentarily.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters - he looks like he's 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.

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.
Veli with a poor takedown

and Larratt decides to take the opportunity to score a takedown. He's landed in Veli's guard.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Giorgos Veli. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Larratt pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Veli is keeping the position for now.
Larratt is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Larratt throwing strikes from guard but Veli blocks nicely.
Larratt works over Veli with some ground and pound from guard.
Larratt lands a couple of elbows.
Larratt missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Larratt landing some decent shots from guard.
Larratt content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Larratt throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Veli works some decent striking defense from the bottom.
Veli avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Larratt postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Veli working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Larratt.
Larratt working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Veli's head.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Larratt accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.

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

so Larratt counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Larratt stays in close to Veli's body and controls the position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Veli utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
Larratt throws a big right hand that misses.
Larratt working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Larratt throwing strikes from guard but Veli blocks nicely.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Larratt keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Veli's head.
Veli working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Larratt.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Shannon Larratt 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.

Veli misses with a takedown

and Larratt counters with a nice double leg into side control. Veli won't be happy with that.
Larratt working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Veli really does look like a pencil wearing a pair of gloves. Let's hope he has a gameplan to suit that ridiculous body shape.
The strikes coming from Larratt are missing the target in this wave of attacks.
Larratt throws an elbow but Veli slips to the side and avoids it well.
Sloppy strikes there by Larratt.
Veli is being controlled here.
Veli is working to avoid the ground and pound but Larratt connects with a decent elbow.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Larratt looking to punish the body of his opponent here but Veli is avoiding damage well.
Sloppy strikes there by Larratt.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Larratt in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Veli is being controlled here.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Larratt sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Veli is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
Larratt throws a knee to the body but it doesn't do much damage.
The ground and pound from Larratt seems to be hitting the mat more than his opponent.
Larratt throws a strike aimed at the side of Veli's head but Veli avoids it well.
Larratt throws an elbow but Veli slips to the side and avoids it well.
Larratt working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Larratt trying to control the position but Veli is working away.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Veli looks to clinch

and Larratt counters with a takedown into side control.
Sloppy strikes there by Larratt.
Larratt throws an elbow but Veli slips to the side and avoids it well.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Larratt throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
You can see the frustration on Veli's face as Larratt controls the position.
Larratt tries to score with some ground and pound. Veli controls his posture well this time though and the shots don't do any damage.
Shannon Larratt has got the better of the ground game so far.
Veli can't do much from the bottom here.
Larratt in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
Larratt throws a knee to the body but it doesn't do much damage.
Larratt misses with the ground and pound.
Veli takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.

It looks like Giorgos Veli has been cut.
Larratt scores with a couple of nice shots to the head there. The referee takes a look at Veli to see if he's OK.
Larratt controlling the position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Veli dodges the ground and pound from Larratt.
Larratt creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Veli sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Veli parries the strikes from Larratt easily there. Larratt is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Veli to escape.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Veli parries the strikes from Larratt easily there. Larratt is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Veli to escape.
Larratt creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Veli sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Veli shoots and misses

and Larratt counters with a nice double leg into guard.
Larratt postures up in Veli's guard and throws a big left but Veli blocks it.
Larratt controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.

Veli escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Larratt gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Veli preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Larratt throwing strikes but missing.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Larratt accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Larratt content to stall in guard here.
Larratt trying to control but Veli is working from the bottom.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Shannon Larratt showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Giorgos Veli's cut.
That's the end of the round. The referee orders the cornermen out of the cage so we can get back down to business. This is the final round!

Veli misses with a takedown attempt

and Larratt counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Larratt throws a big elbow that misses.
Larratt engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.
Veli utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Larratt accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Veli has momentary wrist control but Larratt slips an elbow through the middle.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Larratt lands a couple of elbows.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Larratt is working Veli over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.
Larratt content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Larratt loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Larratt working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Veli utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Giorgos Veli seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Veli fails with the takedown

and Larratt counters with a takedown into side control! That could mean trouble for Veli!
Veli trying to remain calm as Larratt controls from the top position.
Larratt's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.
Larratt working the body and head with strikes.
Larratt working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.
Veli parries the strikes from Larratt easily there. Larratt is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Veli to escape.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Veli managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Larratt.
Larratt cracks Veli with a big right hand but Veli just smiles back at him and invites him to have another go.
Larratt has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Larratt scoring with punches and elbows.
Larratt creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Veli sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Larratt lands an elbow.

Veli is rocked!
Larratt fails to land a wild elbow strike.
Oh Veli is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Larratt working the ground and pound but Veli is defending the strikes.
Veli seems to have got his legs back now.
Larratt tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
Larratt tries to move to mount but Veli blocks the move with his legs.
Larratt working the ground and pound but he's contacting the mat, not the fighter.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Larratt cracks Veli with a big elbow.
Larratt postures up a little and throws a couple of hammerfists but they don't connect properly.
Veli parries the strikes from Larratt easily there. Larratt is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Veli to escape.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up. He just wasn't happy with the level of activity.
Veli shoots in but doesn't get the takedown

and Larratt counters with a shoot takedown. Veli fights it but they end up in guard.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Giorgos Veli. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Larratt sitting in guard, not really doing much.
Veli working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Larratt.
Larratt engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Larratt wants to control from the top but Veli keeps moving.
Veli keeping full guard, as Larratt tries to pass.
Larratt cracks Veli with a solid left hand.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Larratt is looking to work some ground and pound but Veli has wrist control.
The referee must be thinking about standing these guys back up.
Larratt seems content to control from guard here. He's going to have to remain active though if he doesn't want to get stood back up.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Giorgos Veli has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Veli falls off balance throwing a combination

and Larratt counters with a driving takedown into guard. Nice work there by Larratt.

And that's the end of the fight!
Shannon Larratt comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
Well Larratt 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 Matti Vanhoillinen scores the fight 27:30
Judge Johanna Lukiainen scores the fight 27:30
Judge Tarja Halkonen scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Shannon Larratt!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
32%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Brandon Lee (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and George Nassar (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.

Lee
vs
Nassar

178 cm
22
161 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

175 cm
20
165 lbs
2 - 0 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
World class boxer
Cardio machine

Good wrestler
Excellent 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 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Brandon Lee!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, George Nassar!
The judges for this bout are Arvi Lind, Ben Zyskovitsi and Johanna Lukiainen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Nassar throws a hook to the side of Lee's head but Lee sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Lee misses with a wild combination.
Lee moves out of range of the strikes.
Lee shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Nassar but Nassar pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Nassar loads up on a big right hand but Lee slips the punch.
Lee was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Lee throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
A little jabbing left from Nassar on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Nassar punishes Lee's body with a nice straight punch.
The fighters circling - Nassar throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Nassar looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Lee throwing a counter right hand but Nassar manages to avoid it.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Lee ducks under a wild hook from Nassar.
It looked like Lee was trying to counter with a body shot coming off that last attack from Nassar.
Nassar throws a shot from downtown. Lee moves away and avoids it.
Lee dodges the punch combination from Nassar.
Lee tries to bum rush Nassar with a series of wild strikes but Nassar uses good footwork to avoid the assault.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nassar lunges in with an uppercut that skims his opponent's chin.
George Nassar is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Lee scores with a big left there. The judges will like that one.
Nassar jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Lee dodges the punch combination from Nassar.
Nassar throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Lee sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Nassar has done a lot of speed work in the buildup to this fight.
Lee keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Nassar.
Nassar lands a jab-cross combination.
Nassar takes a swing at Lee's ribcage but misses.
Lee misses with a hook
enabling Nassar to counter with a crisp jab.
Lee tries to bum rush Nassar with a series of wild strikes but Nassar uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Nassar might want to mix his strikes up a bit more. He's just going for head shots at the moment and that can become a bit predictable.
Nassar throws a couple of head shots and lands with the final one - a decent hook, which struck Lee on the side of the head.
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!
Lee looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.
Nassar misses with a hook.
A little feinted left hand from Lee on the counter but he doesn't commit to it.
Lee misses with a wild body shot.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Lee throws a combination that misses
and Nassar counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Nassar misses the shot to the body.
A counter left hand to the body from Lee misses its target.
Lee walks into a straight right hand from Nassar.

Lee is rocked!
Lee misses with a combination
and Nassar counters with a right hand to the body.
Oh Lee is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Today's fight clock is brought to you by... OOOH that's a huge shot by Nassar! Lee is in big trouble here - the ref steps in to save him and this one is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:23 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). George Nassar!
An out of breath George Nassar thanked his loyal fans in his post fight interview, giving them credit for his success over the course of his career.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
56%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Tom Pappas (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Malcolm XsX (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Malcolm XsX is the more experienced fighter, so let's see if that makes a difference tonight.

Pappas
vs
XsX

165 cm
18
163 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

178 cm
23
155 lbs
5 - 2 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Basic striking
KO power

Decent wrestler
Counter fighter
Solid 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 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of St Petersburg, Tom Pappas!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 5 - 2 - 0, fighting out of London, Malcolm XsX!
The judges for this bout are Johanna Lukiainen, Matti Vanhoillinen and Arvi Lind.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Pappas shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Pappas was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
XsX is trying to control Pappas's posture but Pappas avoids it.
XsX is looking to regain half guard here but Pappas keeps moving and retains side control.
XsX is still trying to improve position.
Pappas scores with a couple of short elbows.
XsX is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Pappas working away.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Pappas is working XsX over with some ground and pound from side control.
XsX is looking to reverse the position.
Pappas trying to control the action but XsX is working from the bottom.
Pappas working the ground and pound.

That's one minute gone in the round.
XsX tries to buck Pappas off but Pappas is having none of it.
XsX is persisting with the attempt to improve his position.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
XsX takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Pappas is putting a hurting on XsX here, landing some big shots from side control.
You can see the frustration on XsX's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Pappas connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused XsX some visible discomfort.
XsX tries to improve position but can't.
XsX takes a nasty elbow to the side of the head.
XsX wants to control but Pappas postures up.
Pappas trying to control the position but XsX is working away.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if XsX can do anything to dispel that myth.
Pappas working the ground and pound.
You can see the frustration on XsX's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Pappas wants to control but XsX is keeping him busy.
Pappas lands an elbow.
Pappas working the ground and pound.
Pappas working the head with strikes.
Pappas lands a decent elbow from side control.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Pappas landing with strikes to the head and body from side control.
XsX struggling a bit here.
XsX looks to move to half guard but instead Pappas has passed into mount! Damn!
XsX gets back to half guard.

XsX looking for submissions off his back.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Pappas wants to pass to mount but XsX is defending the position.
XsX on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.

XsX looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Pappas moves into full mount! XsX won't be happy about that!
Pappas lands a big elbow.
Pappas with a couple of short strikes.
XsX takes a big shot to the head but keeps on trying to improve his position.
XsX is looking to improve his position but Pappas isn't that keen on the idea.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
XsX manages to regain half guard. Good work.
XsX is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Pappas scores with a couple of nice shots.
XsX wants to get back to full guard.
Pappas 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.
XsX trying to hold on to Pappas's head to control him but Pappas postures up.
XsX tries to get to full guard but Pappas has control of the leg.

XsX is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Pappas pulls his head out easily.
XsX looks winded!
Pappas is looking to pass the guard... He's managed it - he's now in full mount!
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Pappas raining down shots from the mount!
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Tom Pappas dominated that round.
That's time! Back to the action!

XsX slips a straight right by Pappas.
A looping hook to the body misses from Pappas. XsX does a little dance to reset his feet.
Pappas gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and XsX counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Pappas stuffs the takedown attempt from XsX. XsX gets slowly back to his feet.

XsX decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Nice strikes from XsX there.
Pappas manages to get to full guard.
Pappas not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Pappas wants to sweep but no luck.
Pappas is working hard here to advance position.
Pappas might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Pappas not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
XsX scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
XsX with a nice head shot there.
Pappas trying to control the position.
Tom Pappas overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
XsX connects with a couple of short punches.
XsX is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
XsX postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
XsX must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Pappas wants to sweep here but XsX controlling him for the moment.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
XsX keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Pappas's head.
Pappas bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in XsX's guard.

Our spies down at at English Top Team - THE Hybrid Gym (11 ELITE ) inform us that XsX has really been working on his submissions in the buildup to this fight. Will it pay off?
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
XsX looking to hit a scissor sweep but Pappas is one step ahead there.

XsX working for a triangle but Pappas defends it easily.
Pappas is working XsX over from the guard. He should look to pass the guard and do a little more damage with these strikes.

XsX looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Pappas connects with a couple of short punches.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Pappas advances position into side control!
Pappas has been looking to land a fair amount of strikes on the ground. He might be looking to soften his opponent up in order to work for a submission.
Pappas in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
XsX is looking for a sweep.
Pappas trying to control the action but XsX is working from the bottom.
Pappas creates a bit of distance and throws down some hard shots.
XsX tries to get back to half guard but can't.
Pappas in side control lands a decent elbow.
Pappas lands a nice forearm strike.
Pappas grinds an elbow into XsX's temple.
XsX tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Pappas wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Pappas trying to control the position but XsX is working away.
Pappas lands a nice forearm strike.
XsX manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Pappas landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
XsX on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Ground and pound from Pappas.
Pappas trying to pass the guard but XsX defending well.

XsX looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Pappas thows a huge punch but XsX dodges it nicely.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Pappas is keen to just control but XsX is a slippery customer.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Pappas shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.

Pappas drives through with a takedown into guard.
Pappas throws a big elbow that misses.

XsX escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Pappas gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.

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

Pappas avoids a guillotine attempt easily.
Pappas is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that XsX can do to turn this around?
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

XsX looks to be working for a triangle here. Oh, it looks like he might have it! Pappas has picked XsX up and slammed him! XsX can't keep hold of the triangle and Pappas manages to pass to side control!
XsX is trying to control Pappas's posture but Pappas avoids it.
XsX takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Pappas working the body and head with strikes.
Pappas trying to control the action but XsX is working from the bottom.
Pappas scores with punches from side control.
Pappas lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear XsX down.
XsX takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
Pappas could do with losing a few pounds - he looks very soft around the mid section, to put it politely.
XsX taking a bit of punishment here - Pappas scoring with strikes.
Pappas working the ground and pound.
Pappas scores with a couple of short elbows.
XsX takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Pappas lands a nice forearm strike.
Pappas lands an elbow.
Tom Pappas is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
XsX is looking for a sweep.
XsX is not content to let Pappas control the position.
XsX tries to get back to half guard but can't.
You can see the frustration on XsX's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Pappas scores with punches from side control.
Pappas trying to control the action but XsX is working from the bottom.
Pappas scores with punches from side control.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
XsX can't do much from the bottom here.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Pappas wants to control but XsX is keeping him busy.
XsX is looking for a sweep.
Pappas working the ground and pound.
Pappas just content to control the position.
XsX is looking to regain half guard here but Pappas keeps moving and retains side control.
Pappas scoring with punches from side control.
Pappas lands some shots froms side control.
XsX can't do much from the bottom here.
XsX regains half guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Pappas is looking to take a break and control but XsX is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Pappas lands with a punch from half guard.

XsX actively working from the bottom here.
Pappas takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Pappas working the head and body with strikes.
XsX gets full guard.

XsX throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
Pappas sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed XsX's guard.
Malcolm XsX has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
XsX wants to improve his position but Pappas is controlling well.

And that's the end of the fight!
Tom Pappas showed his dominance in that final round.
Well I reckon that's a shut out for Pappas, 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 Johanna Lukiainen scores the fight 30:27
Judge Matti Vanhoillinen scores the fight 30:27
Judge Arvi Lind scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Tom Pappas!
Tom Pappas bigged himself up after the win. The crowd seemed to love it.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
41%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a bantamweight MMA rules bout between Sean Manuwa (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Manfred Von Richthoffen (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.

Manuwa
vs
Von Richthoffen

178 cm
25
145 lbs
3 - 0 - 0

171 cm
19
147 lbs
3 - 2 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Basic striking
Granite chin

Good wrestler
Counter fighter
Good gas tank

Sydney Fight Gear

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 3 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Sydney, Sean Manuwa!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Manfred Von Richthoffen!
The judges for this bout are Johanna Lukiainen, Tarja Halkonen and Matti Vanhoillinen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Manuwa misses the jab.
Manuwa definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
A punch combination from Manuwa misses.

Manuwa moves into the clinch.
Von Richthoffen wants to break free but Manuwa has control.

Von Richthoffen breaks the clinch.
Manuwa fails to land with a series of punches.
Manuwa doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Von Richthoffen counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Decent striking displayed by Von Richthoffen there.
Manuwa misses with a kick to the body
and Von Richthoffen counters with a nice uppercut.
Von Richthoffen looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
A punch combination from Manuwa misses.
Manuwa uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Von Richthoffen.
Manuwa throws a wild combination but nothing lands.
Von Richthoffen unleashes a big counter combination but Manuwa bobs and weaves and avoids any damage.
Manuwa closes the distance but Von Richthoffen moves to the side
and Von Richthoffen counters with a stiff right hand.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Von Richthoffen misses with a few strikes there.
Manuwa is trying hard to land a takedown here. Von Richthoffen sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Von Richthoffen lands a nice shot that snaps Manuwa's head back.
Manuwa motions for Von Richthoffen to come forward. Manuwa throws a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Von Richthoffen looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Von Richthoffen throws a good cross that connects.
Manuwa moves out of range of the strikes.
Von Richthoffen blocks the body kick.
Von Richthoffen avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Von Richthoffen is looking for the big counter here.
Von Richthoffen jabs Manuwa right on the nose. Manuwa blinks but takes it well.
Manuwa moves to clinch but Von Richthoffen breaks away
and Von Richthoffen counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Manuwa misses with a takedown attempt. He shot from a bit too far out.
A little jabbing left from Von Richthoffen on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Sean Manuwa. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Von Richthoffen's corner calls for a 1, 2 combination and Von Richthoffen duly obliges.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Manuwa moves to clinch but Von Richthoffen breaks away

and Von Richthoffen counters with a nice right hand that sends Manuwa toppling to the canvas! Manuwa scrambles and gets back to his feet - can Von Richthoffen finish him?!

Manuwa is rocked!
Sean Manuwa seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Von Richthoffen lands with an uppercut that bounces Manuwa off the cage and back into range.
Oh Manuwa is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Von Richthoffen is landing a lot of head punches in this opening round! Manuwa had better start moving his head a bit unless he wants his face to turn into pâté.
Von Richthoffen loads up on a big right hand but Manuwa slips the punch.
Manuwa seems to have got his legs back now.
Manfred Von Richthoffen is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Manuwa tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Von Richthoffen paws at him with a jab and circles away.
Von Richthoffen swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Manuwa throws a head kick that misses.
Von Richthoffen throws a combination but it was largely blocked by Manuwa.
Manuwa fails to land with the punch combination there - jab, cross, hook, miss, miss, miss.
Manuwa throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Manuwa throws a leg kick that is checked
and Von Richthoffen counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Manuwa misses with a combination
and Von Richthoffen counters with a straight right hand.
Manuwa has his takedown stuffed
and Von Richthoffen counters with a left to the body.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Manuwa fails with a takedown attempt.
Von Richthoffen lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Manuwa circles away quickly and effectively.
Manuwa misses with a double jab.
Von Richthoffen misses with a looping right.
Von Richthoffen uses good footwork to get in and out, landing a nice hook.
Manuwa gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Von Richthoffen counters with a straight right hand.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Von Richthoffen, as that shot connected.
Manuwa wants to clinch but Von Richthoffen slips to the side
and Von Richthoffen counters with a nice uppercut.
Manuwa shoots and misses
and Von Richthoffen counters with a quick right hand to the jaw.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Von Richthoffen ducks low and lands a nice hook to the body of his opponent.
Manuwa looks to clinch
and Von Richthoffen counters with a nice uppercut.
The fans in attendance giving it up for the two fighters, who have really let it all hang out in the last minute or so!
Von Richthoffen will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Manuwa tries to clinch up
letting Von Richthoffen counter with a right hand.
Manuwa shoots and misses
and Von Richthoffen counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Manuwa has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Manuwa there as he acknowledges the shot.
Manuwa moves to clinch but Von Richthoffen breaks away
and Von Richthoffen counters with a big right hand! Oh Manuwa is in trouble here! Von Richthoffen follows up with more strikes and that's it! The ref has stopped it!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:46 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Manfred Von Richthoffen!
After the fight, Manfred Von Richthoffen was humble in paying tribute to his opponent but made it clear he wants to go on to bigger and better things. It seemed to go down well with the crowd who cheered him loudly.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
61%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Toni Valtonen (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Conor Ruttenum (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Valtonen comes to the cage accompanied by AC/DC - Thunderstruck . Ruttenum has chosen The Game - El Chapo as his entrance music, which hasn't gone down very well with the crowd. Conor Ruttenum has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Valtonen
vs
Ruttenum

188 cm
19
205 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

191 cm
24
208 lbs
4 - 5 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Counter fighter
Self confident

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Granite chin

FinnFighter Nutrition (Five 160Q supps!)

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 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Toni Valtonen !
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 5 - 0, fighting out of London, Conor Ruttenum !
The judges for this bout are Anni Minnemäki, Matti Vanhoillinen and Roosa Järviläinen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Valtonen shoots in for a takedown and gets it. Let's see what he's got on the mat.
Hammerfist, elbow! yells Valtonen 's corner. There ya go! There ya go!
Valtonen throwing strikes but missing.
Valtonen definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Ruttenum wants to stand but Valtonen is controlling the position.
Valtonen is in close to Ruttenum 's body, working some short punches and elbows.
Valtonen throwing strikes from guard but Ruttenum blocks nicely.
Valtonen with a flurry of punches that miss.
Valtonen working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ruttenum wants to sweep here but Valtonen controlling him for the moment.
Valtonen loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Valtonen looking to sit in guard and control but Ruttenum gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.

Valtonen on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Valtonen tries to get out of the position.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ruttenum postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Valtonen pulls Ruttenum in close to prevent any damage.
Ruttenum prevents Valtonen from getting back to his feet.
Ruttenum missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Valtonen has his hands on Ruttenum 's head, controlling the position.
Ruttenum with a flurry of punches that miss.
Valtonen is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Ruttenum has the superior BJJ but he's also working some ground strikes into his gameplan.
We've had a lack of effective grappling in the last minute or so, which could well see a referee standup.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Ruttenum throws a big elbow that misses.
Ruttenum postures up to throw the ground and pound strikes but they don't connect.
Valtonen working the defensive guard well to avoid strikes from Ruttenum .
Valtonen is pulling down on Ruttenum 's head to control his posture.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Ruttenum doesn't succeed with the takedown

and Valtonen counters by moving into the clinch. Good anticipation by Valtonen .

Ruttenum is working on a single leg takedown against the cage. Valtonen can't fight it off and eventually Ruttenum manages to take the fight to the floor. Valtonen looks annoyed but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Valtonen wants to stand up but Ruttenum is controlling him.
Ruttenum missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Valtonen is pulling down on Ruttenum 's head. It's preventing any offense from Ruttenum , at least for the moment.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Ruttenum is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Valtonen has Ruttenum pulled in close to control his posture.
Valtonen is looking to stand up but Ruttenum isn't so interested in that idea.
Valtonen wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Ruttenum landing some decent shots from guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Neither fighter has done anything of merit for a good minute or two here and the crowd are not happy about it.
Valtonen is trying to keep Ruttenum in close.
Valtonen looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Valtonen is trying to control the position but Ruttenum postures up.

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

Valtonen working the ground and pound.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Ruttenum is moving his hips around well on the bottom and has managed to get back to half guard.
Ruttenum gets back to full guard.
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 Toni Valtonen will probably get the nod.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action!

Ruttenum tries for a takedown but Valtonen sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Ruttenum closes this distance looking for a takedown but Valtonen circles away.
It looked like Valtonen wanted to counter with a hook but didn't fully commit.
Valtonen looks to land a combination. Ruttenum sees it coming but can only parry a couple of the shots.

It looks like Conor Ruttenum has been cut.
Valtonen defends well against a solid takedown attempt from Ruttenum .
Toni Valtonen has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Conor Ruttenum .

Valtonen fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Ruttenum to the ground. Valtonen is now in Ruttenum 's guard.
Valtonen lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Valtonen is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Ruttenum can do to turn this around?

Valtonen decides to stand up and beckons his opponent to follow.
Ruttenum misses with a takedown attempt
and Valtonen counters with a hugh head kick that removes Ruttenum from consiousness! A brutal head kick knockout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:37 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Head Kick). Toni Valtonen !
After winning the bout, Toni Valtonen thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.
In defeat, Conor Ruttenum stepped up to the mic, saying 'He caught me, what can I say? good shit.'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
30%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a welterweight MMA rules bout between Hiruko Kami (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Rusoposkinen Clintsari (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Kami
vs
Clintsari

182 cm
19
170 lbs
3 - 0 - 0

185 cm
19
185 lbs
7 - 2 - 0

Good wrestling
Counter fighter
Cuts easily

BJJ White Belt
Solid Muay Thai
Heavy handed

Phantom Fightwear

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the welterweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 3 - 0 - 0, fighting out of New York, Hiruko Kami!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 7 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Rusoposkinen Clintsari !
The judges for this bout are Matti Vanhoillinen, Arvi Lind and Ben Zyskovitsi.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Kami loads up on a big right hand but Clintsari slips the punch.
Clintsari moves out of range of the body kick from Kami.
Clintsari sizes up Kami with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.

It looks like Hiruko Kami has been cut.
A telegraphed right hand from Clintsari misses the target.
Kami feinted with a counter takedown.
Clintsari has been working on his striking defense in training and it's paying off as Kami is landing a low percentage of strikes.
Kami swings widly with a right hand
and Clintsari counters with a stiff right hand.

Kami is rocked!
Clintsari is looking for an opening here. He's unloaded a big left hand that catches Kami flush on the jaw and sends him tumbling to the canvas! Kami is out cold! Clintsari holds back from landing any unnecessary shots to his unconscious opponent, as the referee reacts slowly to the situation. A brutal knockout and then some excellent sportsmanship - this guy is my new favorite fighter!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:26 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Rusoposkinen Clintsari !
Rusoposkinen Clintsari is the new welterweight champion!
Rusoposkinen Clintsari was full of energy after the big win and talked about how he thinks he can do big things in this sport. The crowd were appreciative of his determination to succeed.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
100%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Donnie Darko (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Seto Takiama (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Both fighters really staring each other down here, as Seto Takiama enters the cage!

Darko
vs
Takiama

150 cm
22
150 lbs
8 - 6 - 0

180 cm
29
155 lbs
8 - 4 - 0

Powerful takedowns
Good knees
KO power

BJJ Purple Belt
Counter fighter
Solid chin

M.O. Fight Wear

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 8 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Tokyo, Donnie Darko!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 8 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Seto Takiama!
The judges for this bout are Marco Blurström, Matti Vanhoillinen and Arvi Lind.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Darko moves into the clinch successfully.
Darko gets underhooks to prevent Takiama's takedown attempt.
Darko tries to land a knee to the head but misses.
Darko landing knees to the head.

It looks like Seto Takiama has been cut.
A knee to the head by Darko.

Darko jumps into guard, dragging Takiama to the mat.
Darko looking for a sweep. Not yet Darko, not yet.
Darko manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Takiama manages to get himself to full guard.

Takiama is working from a closed guard but he's struggling to control his opponent.
Takiama keeping full guard, as Darko tries to pass.
Darko controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Takiama utilising some decent striking defenses from the guard, preventing the ground and pound.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Darko stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Takiama swivels though and keeps the full guard.

Takiama throwing his legs up looking for a triangle.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Darko is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Takiama keeping moving, preventing Darko from controlling successfully.
Darko passes into half guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Darko wants to stand up but Takiama manages to regain full guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
There's not a lot going on here and the crowd are letting the fighters know they're not willing to tolerate a lack of action.

Takiama is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Darko is pushing down on Takiama's leg trying to pass to half guard. Takiama is fighting to maintain full guard but Darko has managed to sneak the leg through.

Darko escapes and gets back to his feet.
Takiama has done a lot of speed work in the buildup to this fight.
Darko will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Takiama looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Darko fails with the takedown
and Takiama counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
No luck for Darko with that takedown attempt.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Donnie Darko. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Darko keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Darko drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
The fighters are going at a pretty good pace and they're both starting to sweat now.
Takiama gets back to half guard.
Darko throws a big elbow that misses, also allowing Takiama to regain full guard.

Darko got a little sloppy there for a moment and Takiama has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Darko has managed to get both his arms back between Takiama's legs - danger averted.
Darko pushing down on Takiama's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Darko trying to control the action but Takiama is working from the bottom.
Darko is really struggling to control Takiama but he's trying to hold on to the position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Darko is thinking about going for an arm triangle but he can't free his leg.
Darko moves into full mount! Takiama won't be happy about that!

Darko is looking to secure an arm. He's managed it! He's pivoting for an armbar - that looks tight! But Takiama has managed to get out of it and now he's in a dominant position. Nice work from Takiama!
Darko looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.

Takiama thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Donnie Darko dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Seto Takiama's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!

Darko shoots in and bounces Takiama off the cage to secure the takedown into guard.
Darko might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Darko is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.

Darko gets to his feet and steps away from his opponent.
Darko misses with a takedown
and Takiama counters with a straight right hand.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Darko scores with a takedown into Takiama's guard.
Darko is pushing down on Takiama's leg trying to pass to half guard. Takiama is fighting to maintain full guard but Darko has managed to sneak the leg through.
Darko is trying to control the action in half guard but Takiama is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Darko wants to pass the guard but Takiama is defending well.
Darko content to sit in half guard and control for a moment.

Darko is working for a kimura from half guard. He's really concentrating on the hold and it's allowed Takiama to slip a leg under and get back to full guard.
Darko throwing strikes but missing.

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.
Darko throws a strike but Takiama rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:29 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Donnie Darko!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
36%

Main event

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Rafael Amaral (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Virgil Keller (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Keller has chosen War Music as his entrance music, which hasn't gone down very well with the crowd. Both fighters will be looking to make this an exciting fight for the fans, I'm sure!

Amaral
vs
Keller

189 cm
36
194 lbs
30 - 13 - 0

184 cm
37
197 lbs
31 - 20 - 0

Good wrestling
Excellent boxer
Insanely flexible

Good wrestler
World class boxer
Good gas tank

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 30 - 13 - 0, fighting out of Helsinki, Rafael Amaral!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 31 - 20 - 0, fighting out of London, Virgil Keller!
The judges for this bout are Johanna Lukiainen, Tarja Halkonen and Roosa Järviläinen.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Amaral misses with a head kick.
A jab from Amaral finds it's way through Keller's defenses.

It looks like Virgil Keller has been cut.
Nice uppercut lands for Keller. That snapped Amaral's head back.
Keller displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Amaral throws out the jab.
Amaral throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Keller counters with a shot to the ribs. That looked like it hurt.
A thudding body kick lands there by Amaral!
A big left from Amaral misses.
Keller uses decent footwork to sidestep a right hand from Amaral.
Keller throws a lazy uppercut
and Amaral cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Amaral tries to bum rush Keller with a series of wild strikes but Keller uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Keller lands with a thumping leg kick.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Keller moves forwards but Amaral connects with a nice, crisp jab.

Keller clinches up against the cage.
Keller is trying to force a seperation but Amaral has the dominant position.
Keller swings wildly with an uppercut but Amaral uses good head movement to avoid it.
Keller has a couple of punches blocked by Amaral.
Keller stays in close to his opponent and throws a right hand to the body.

That's one minute gone in the round.
A head punch blocked on the inside by Keller.
Keller softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.

Keller breaks from the clinch.
Amaral throws the left hand but Keller avoids the punch easily.
Amaral throws a jab when Keller was well out of range.
Keller blocks a jab.
And an attempted straight right on the counter from Keller! But no joy.
Amaral throws a sloppy head kick and Keller moves out of range easily.
Amaral seems to be moving with more speed, compared to his last bout. He must have been working on that in the gym.
Amaral moves out of range of the body kick from Keller.
Keller looking to throw a kick but he's pulled out of it.
Amaral thows a left - swing and a miss!
Amaral lands a powerful looking uppercut that connected with his opponent's jaw.
Keller lands with a nice low kick. That'll leave a bruise.
Amaral throws an overhand right that lands on Keller's shoulder, as Keller tries to avoid the shot.
Amaral looks to land a right hand but Keller moved out of range.

Amaral clinches with his opponent.
Amaral blocking some punches.

Keller breaks the clinch.
Amaral is really head hunting here, hardly looking to strike to the body at all.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Amaral doesn't react quick enough there as he takes a shot to the body.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Keller throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Amaral throws a head kick that misses
and Keller counters with a straight right hand.
Keller keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Amaral.
Keller flicks out a counter leg kick but Amaral steps away.
Keller will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Keller takes a jab on the nose. He smiles like he loves it and keeps coming.
Amaral feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Kellers jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Amaral lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but Keller circles away quickly and effectively.
Keller blocks a head kick by Amaral.
Keller misses with a head kick.
Amaral is trying to close the distance and clinch up, after that failed offence from Keller.
Keller lands a really nice looking cross but Amaral seems unphased.
Decent striking displayed by Amaral there.

Keller drives through and clinches with Amaral against the cage.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Keller breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Amaral pulls out of a head kick attempt.

Keller pushes Amaral up against the cage in a clinch.
Keller has a couple of punches blocked by Amaral.
Amaral trying to stall but Keller improves his position.
Keller misses with a short punch on the inside.
Keller tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
A frustrated look appears on Keller's face as he tries to break the clinch.
Amaral swings away with an uppercut that misses.
Keller blocks a couple of punches on the inside.

Keller breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
A big right from Keller misses.
Amaral scores with a three punch combo!

Keller tries to keep at a distance but Amaral has taken the fight into the clinch.
Amaral slowing the pace effectively.

Keller's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.
Keller's coach down at ~T~ Troid - Gym was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Keller's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.
A telegraphed right hand from Amaral misses the target.
Jab by Amaral.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Amaral takes a body kick right on the floating rib. Ouchie.
Keller feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Amarals jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Amaral misses with a hook. Keller ducked under it nicely.
Keller on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.

Keller clinches up with Amaral and pushes him back against the cage.
Amaral has a couple of punches blocked by Keller.
A short right from Amaral.
Keller blocks a punch to the side of the head.
A short uppercut from Keller.
Amaral blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Amaral misses with a hook from the clinch.

Keller pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Keller fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Amaral.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Amaral throws a head kick but Keller moves out of range.
Amaral throws a lazy head kick
and Amaral takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
A head kick misses from Amaral.
Keller throws a body kick but he wasn't in range.
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 Rafael Amaral will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Virgil Keller's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.

Keller throws a leg kick but Amaral checks it.
Amaral tries to clinch there but Keller circles away.
Rafael Amaral is winning the standup battle so far.
Keller takes a shot to the eye socket. That's gotta hurt.
Amaral swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Amaral throws a sloppy head kick
letting Keller counter with a right hand.

Amaral clinches up with Keller and pushes him back against the cage.
Amaral lands a right hand that snaps the head of Keller backwards.
Amaral throws a head punch that misses.
Keller tries to land a shot to the body but it's blocked.
Amaral throws a punch but it's blocked by Keller.
Keller lands with a short shot to the head.
Keller is trying to break the clinch but Amaral has him pressed against the cage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Amaral misses with the head strike.
Keller blocks a couple of punches on the inside.
Amaral connects with a nasty looking knee right to Keller's face.
A short right from Amaral on the inside.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Come on Amaral - let's have some action - none of this stalling nonsense.
Keller misses with a short punch on the inside.

That's one minute gone in the round.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Amaral.
Amaral is clearly stalling here... Pick up the pace son.
A short right from Amaral.

Keller breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Keller is looking to slow Amaral down with leg kicks.
Keller throws a push kick but Amaral slaps the foot to one side.
Sloppy strikes from Amaral. Those never looked like landing.
Amaral throws a sloppy head kick
and Keller counters nicely by changing levels and landing a hook to the body.
Keller throws a jab when Amaral was well out of range.
Amaral slips a straight right by Keller.
Keller lands the left hand.
Amaral fails in his attempt to clinch.
Amaral on the wrong end of an overhand right that came out of nowhere.
Keller drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Keller throws a quick inside leg kick.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Amaral keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Amaral doesn't manage to clinch there - Keller circles away.
Keller throws the left hand but Amaral avoids the punch easily.
Keller lands with a hook. Amaral tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
Amaral fakes low and throws an overhand right that catches Keller on the side of the head.
Amaral avoids the head kick by Keller.
Amaral throws a counter high kick but Keller was just alert enough to avoid it.
Keller connects with a leg kick. Amaral looked like he was expecting something else and didn't defend it.
Amaral throws a head kick that misses.
Amaral throws a head kick that Keller semi-blocks.
A telegraphed right hand from Amaral misses the target.
Amaral wants to clinch
and Keller counters with a nice low kick that buckles Amaral's knee momentarily.
Keller walks into a stiff left hand from Amaral.
Amaral misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Keller.
Keller keeps Amaral at a distance using the push kick.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
The fighters circling - Amaral throws out the jab but it was never going to land.
Keller misses with a looping right.
Keller uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Amaral.
Keller clobbers Amaral with an overhand right that has the crowd gasping. That made a horrendous noise.
Amaral listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Amaral misses with a head kick.
Amaral looks to land a right hand but Keller moved out of range.
Keller lets it all go there with a big combo counter but none of the punches connected.
Amaral wants to clinch.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Keller, as that shot connected.
Amaral tries to grapple but his opponent circles
and Keller connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Amaral tries a head kick but it misses.
Keller lands a nice shot to the body.
A jab from Amaral does it's job there.
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!

Amaral instigates a clinch.
Amaral trying to stall but Keller improves his position.
Keller gets through Amaral's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
A short right hand to the side of the head by Amaral.
Amaral misses with some punches.

Keller breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Amaral misses with an uppercut. Keller saw that one coming.
Keller uses good footwork to avoid the strikes from Amaral.
A big right from Amaral misses.
Amaral swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Keller looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.

Keller lands a jab followed by a vicious hook that sends Amaral sprawling to the canvas. Keller follows him down, looking for the kill. Can Amaral hang on?

Amaral is rocked!

It looks like Rafael Amaral has been cut.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Keller sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Amaral defending well though.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close second round but Virgil Keller will probably get the nod - 10:9.
Both fighters have cut men working on them during the interval.
OK. That's time! The bell goes and we're back to the action.

Amaral goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
Amaral steps to his left, right into the path of a big body kick from Keller. That one must have hurt.
Keller just misses with a punch to the body.
Amaral tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Keller throws a hook to the side of Amaral's head but Amaral sees it coming and ducks under it beautifully.
Amaral throws a quick head kick that skims the top of Keller's head.
Keller moves out of range as Amaral strikes.
Amaral moves away from the strike by Keller.
Keller ducks under a wild hook from Amaral.
Amaral drops his hands momentarily and Keller takes advantage with a crisp shot to the head.
Oh Amaral is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Amaral throws an ugly left hook that misses
and Keller cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.
Keller dances in quickly and lands a nice inside leg kick on Amaral. That did some damage!
Keller swats away the attempt to clinch by Amaral.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Crunch! Keller slams his shin into Amaral's torso.
Amaral is holding his hands too far apart here. Keller throws a hard, straight punch right down the pipe and BOOM! Amaral is out! That punch landed square on the jaw - what a shot!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:55 of round 3, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Virgil Keller!
Virgil Keller is the new middleweight champion!
Our winner, Virgil Keller, 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.
The defeated Rafael Amaral had this to say: 'I'll be back!!!!'.