HFC 39 Over The Limit PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Ruchacz Zak (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jerry Nassoon (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Zak's entrance music is Armin van Buuren - Sail. A fine choice. Jerry Nassoon looks lathargic as he enters the arena. Wake up son, you're about to have a fight!

Zak
vs
Nassoon

196 cm
21
240 lbs
0 - 4 - 0

180 cm
21
240 lbs
1 - 7 - 0

Good wrestling
Counter striker
Good in bed

Decent wrestler
Brawler
Knockout power

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Ruchacz Zak!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 7 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Jerry Nassoon!
The judges for this bout are Frank Antenori, Timothy Bukovac and .

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Nassoon has his takedown stuffed

and Zak counters with a single leg into guard. Nassoon didn't expect that.

Zak thinks about going for a leg but decides against it, in order to maintain the position.
Zak throwing strikes but missing.
Nassoon avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Zak lands a couple of digs.
Zak won't allow Nassoon to sweep him here.
Nassoon avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.
Zak will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Zak postures up in Nassoon's guard and throws a big left but Nassoon blocks it.
Nassoon looking to control.
Zak loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
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!
Zak is sitting in guard, working some ground and pound.
Zak is stalling in the full guard.
Nassoon looks gassed!

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nassoon avoiding any damage from the ground and pound.

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

Zak is actively looking for submissions from his back. He's worked himself a little space on the bottom and seems to be going for a triangle. No, he's switched into an armbar! That was slick! Nassoon rolls with it to try and escape but Zak cranks on the arm and Nassoon is forced to tap out! This one is aaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:37 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Ruchacz Zak!
Ruchacz Zak thanked the fans post fight for their support.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
48%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Jack Neely (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Kevin Wooten (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Wooten is bouncing up and down as he enters the arena, backed by Sweet Dreams. I can't wait for this one - let's get the fighter introductions out of the way and get this one started!

Neely
vs
Wooten

195 cm
20
280 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

191 cm
18
280 lbs
0 - 3 - 0

Good wrestling
Solid boxing
Very quick

BJJ Blue Belt
Counter striker
Granite chin

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

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
A punch lands to the side of Wooten 's head but he takes it in his stride.
Wooten looks really tired already! That doesn't bode well for a good, competitive fight!
Neely moving in and out of range nicely, whilst landing the scoring shot.
Good shot there by Neely.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Neely throws a jab to the body, straight down the pipe. Boom. That sent Wooten stumbling backwards but he manages to regain his composure quickly.
Neely pushes forward with a 1-2 combination that forces Wooten back to the cage. Neely follows up with a solid lead hook to the liver.
Wooten takes a shot right to the bread basket.

Neely steps into range and cracks Wooten with a monster punch that buckles his knees! Wooten flops backwards and Neely dives into his guard looking to finish!

Wooten is rocked!
Neely passes Wooten's left leg - he's now in half guard.
Wooten is still in real trouble! Can Neely finish him?
Neely lands a big elbow from half guard. That looks like it's hurt Wooten quite badly. Wooten pulls Neely in close trying to recover. Neely postures up and lands two really hard shots that put Wooten on queer street! The ref takes a look and decides to call an end to the fight! Possibly an early stoppage but Wooten doesn't seem to be complaining too much.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:49 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Jack Neely!
Jack Neely thanked the fans post fight for their support.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
100%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Jason Brooks (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Azrael Young (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Brooks comes to the cage accompanied by (Matallica) Ride the lightning. Jason Brooks is staring across the cage at his opponent, tweaking his nipples... Tweaking his own nipples that is.

Brooks
vs
Young

185 cm
23
206 lbs
4 - 4 - 0

190 cm
23
205 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Basic striking
Granite chin

BJJ Purple Belt
Counter striker
Determined

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 4 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Jason Brooks!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Azrael Young!
The judges for this bout are Timothy Bukovac, Frank Antenori and Jack Bonds.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Brooks connects with a right hand. Young shakes it off.
Brooks lands a beauty of a right hand that gets the crowd cheering.
Young shoots in for a takedown but Brooks shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Brooks throws a leg kick

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

Young drops back, looking for a kneebar! Brooks looks panicked! The fighters roll across the mat, one looking to finish, one looking to escape. Brooks looks to have wriggled free... Yes, he's got his leg free and he's dived into side control! Good work there from Brooks!
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Young sneaks back into half guard.
Brooks knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Young on the ground.
Young moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Brooks would like to get this fight back to the feet but can't get free from the closed guard.
Brooks trying desperately to get back to his feet here but he's not having any joy at all. He's going to tire himself out if he's not careful.

Young looking for submissions from the bottom but instead Brooks passes into side control.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Young regains half guard.
Young is looking for a sweep. Brooks is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Young is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Brooks's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Brooks's back!

Brooks is displaying good submission defense - not really looking in danger of submitting to the rear naked choke at the moment. That could change in an instant of course if Young gets his way!

Brooks is trying to defend against the choke here but Young has an arm under his chin. This one might not last much longer. Young Tightens the hold and Brooks taps out furiously! Young displays superior BJJ to win the fight.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:58 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Azrael Young!
An out of breath Azrael Young 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
36%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Kevin Trout (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Mayor Hammertown (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Hammertown is bouncing up and down as he enters the arena, backed by mama said knock u out. Both fighter's entrance songs getting the crowd jumping here.

Trout
vs
Hammertown

188 cm
22
300 lbs
5 - 3 - 0

200 cm
26
271 lbs
3 - 2 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Experienced

BJJ Blue Belt
Decent boxing
Powerful

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the super heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 3 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Kevin Trout!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Mayor Hammertown!
The judges for this bout are Don Winkell, Timothy Bukovac and .

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Trout closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Hammertown quickly recovers to half guard.
We could do with one of the fighters taking the initiative a bit more on the ground - they're both waiting to capitalize on a mistake.
Hammertown wants to get back to his feet.
Hammertown is looking for a sweep. Trout is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Hammertown makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Hammertown.
Trout trying to control but Hammertown is working from the bottom.

Trout drops back looking for a leg! Hammertown is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Hammertown manages to kick Trout off! Trout jumps back into Hammertown's guard.
Hammertown is trying to control the position but Trout postures up.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Trout won't allow Hammertown to sweep him here.
Trout looking to pass the guard.
Hammertown seems keen to control Trout's posture.
Hammertown trying to keep a closed guard but Trout is proving a slippery customer.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

The ref stands the fighters back up. Mayor Hammertown was stalling too much, according to the referee.
Hammertown misses with a jab and misses with a cross straight after too.
Hammertown throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Hammertown throws a body kick that misses.
Trout throws a wild body kick that Hammertown sees coming a mile off.

Hammertown shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Trout manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.

Hammertown decides to stand up and beckons his opponent to follow.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Trout.
Hammertown shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Trout but Trout pushes him off and we're back to square one.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Some bone on bone action there as Trout checks a low kick. Luckily it wasn't a particularly hard one.
Hammertown lands a jab. Then a cross. Then finally a nice hook to the body. Good work there by Hammertown.
Hammertown throws a good cross that connects.
Trout tries to clinch but Hammertown moves out of range.
Hammertown digs a good hook to Trout's body.
Hammertown throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Trout's waist but Trout gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Hammertown off to one side.

Hammertown shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in full mount! That's better than Hammertown was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Hammertown sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.
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!
Trout wants to hold on but Hammertown pushes him away.
Hammertown controlling from mount.
Trout might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Hammertown looking to ground and pound his opponent to a finish here.
Trout is in all sorts of trouble here.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Hammertown looking to control but Trout is working nicely, looking to advance position himself.
Hammertown sitting in mount, just looking to control for the moment.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Mayor Hammertown 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.

Trout wants to clinch.
Trout takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Trout shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Hammertown as he avoids it easily.

Hammertown shoots in and gets a takedown into Trout's guard.
Hammertown trying to control the position from guard on top but Trout is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Hammertown engaging in some classic timewasting tactics.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Trout escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Hammertown gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Mayor Hammertown has got the better of the ground game so far.
Hammertown controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.

OK we're going to have a standup here. Mayor Hammertown hasn't been effective enough on the ground and the referee wants a restart.
Trout throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Hammertown fails with the takedown.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Trout throws a jab, cross combination which is slipped
and Hammertown counters with a two punch combo.
Trout blocks a head kick by Hammertown.

Trout clinches.

Hammertown breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Hammertown stuffs the takedown.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Trout closes this distance looking for a takedown but Hammertown circles away.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Kevin Trout. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Trout is on the wrong end of a nice combination from Hammertown.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Hammertown lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.
Left hook, right uppercut from Hammertown.
Hammertown's corner calls for a 1, 2 combination and Hammertown duly obliges.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Trout looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.

Hammertown gets the takedown into side control.
Trout taking punishment in the form of punches.

Hammertown stands up and we're back to a striking position.
Hammertown looks for a takedown but Trout sprawls well.
Hammertown scores with a crisp jab that stopped Trout in his tracks.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Hammertown lands a jab-cross combination.

Hammertown shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Trout is trying to defend but Hammertown finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Hammertown is looking to take a break and control but Trout is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.

Hammertown stands up from half guard.
Trout wants to clinch.
The crowd are going absolutely nuts as the round comes to an end - what a fantastic round of action!
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Trout.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Mayor Hammertown 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!

Hammertown scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Kevin Trout is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Trout has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Trout there as he acknowledges the shot.
Trout fails with a rather predictable takedown attempt.
Hammertown shoots in looking for a takedown but Trout manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Hammertown's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Trout attempts a leg kick but it's missed by a good margin.
Trout shoots in for a double leg but Hammertown sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Hammertown shoots in for a double leg but Trout sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.
Nice sprawl there from Trout as Hammertown shoots in.
Kevin Trout has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Mayor Hammertown.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Trout gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Hammertown makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Horrible takedown by Trout or perhaps it was just good defense by Hammertown which made him look bad.

A momentary lapse in concentration from Trout enables Hammertown to shoot in and score with a neat double leg. Trout manages to secure a closed guard as the fighters hit the mat.
Hammertown trying to control but Trout is working from the bottom.
Hammertown stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Trout swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Hammertown tries to stand but Trout is controlling from the bottom.

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

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Hammertown stands up from Trout's guard - Hammertown perhaps looking for a knockout.
Hammertown shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Trout defends it nicely.
Trout avoids the head kick by Hammertown.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Hammertown shoots in and gets a takedown into Trout's guard.
Hammertown pushing down on Trout's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
Hammertown seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
Hammertown is just content to waste time from the top position. Trout takes advantage of the situation and regains full guard.
Trout looking for a sweep. Not yet Trout, not yet.
Trout being controlled here, momentarily.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Hammertown stands up from guard. Let's bang!
Nice sprawl there from Hammertown as Trout shoots in.

Trout drops down and drives through with a powerful takedown into guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Hammertown is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.
Trout won't allow Hammertown to get back to his feet.
As the round comes to an end the crowd are showing their appreciation for a great round of action.
Hammertown manages to sweep nicely, so he's now on top. Trout manages to get himself to full guard.

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

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

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Mayor Hammertown!
Mayor Hammertown 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
56%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Sammy Hopler (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Bas Rutten (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Hopler comes into the arena with Bodies (Let the Bodies Hit the Floor) blaring out of the sound system. Sammy Hopler is staring across the cage at his opponent, tweaking his nipples... Tweaking his own nipples that is.

Hopler
vs
Rutten

196 cm
26
201 lbs
5 - 4 - 0

186 cm
27
205 lbs
5 - 5 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Counter striker
Experienced

BJJ Purple Belt
Good kicks
Powerful

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 5 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Sammy Hopler!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 5 - 5 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Bas Rutten!
The judges for this bout are Jack Bonds, Timothy Bukovac and .

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Rutten shoots for a double leg takedown but Hopler sprawls well. He's pushed Rutten's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Hopler misses with a straight right.
Hopler displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Rutten.
Rutten takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Rutten connects with a right hand. Hopler shakes it off.
Rutten staying out of range there.
Rutten shoots in looking for a takedown but Hopler manages to keep the fight standing, pushing Rutten's face into the canvas for good measure before circling away.
Sammy Hopler has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Bas Rutten.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hopler connects with a lovely right hand, straight down the pipe.
Rutten uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Hopler.
Rutten ducks under an overhand right and circles away with a smile on his face.
Oooooooooooh, not good. A low kick from Hopler lands where it shouldn't have, right in the... well, you know what he did? He kicked him in the penis. He's injured, injured bad. The referee sends both fighters to their corners and Rutten has 5 minutes to recover. He's OK now though... a thumbs up from Rutten and we're back underway with a touch of gloves.
Rutten wants to clinch but Hopler slips to the side
and Hopler cracks him with a counter punch right on the button.

It looks like Bas Rutten has been cut.
Rutten throws a front kick that sends Hopler stumbling back into the cage.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Rutten goes for a high kick. It partially lands.
Rutten stooping low to avoid any incoming strikes and then lunges in with an uppercut come cross that lands flush.
A slow jab from Hopler misses its intended target.
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!
Hopler thows a body shot but no joy.
Hopler throws a series of punches but Rutten moves out of range.
Rutten shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Hopler defends it nicely.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Rutten misses with a takedown attempt
and Hopler counters with a three punch combo that has Rutten backing up. Rutten nods at Hopler to acknowledge the strikes.
Hopler throws a right hand that Rutten ducks under and follows up with a left that Rutten also avoids with ease.
Rutten tries for a takedown but Hopler sees it coming a mile off and avoids it easily.
Rutten fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Hopler avoids it really well and circles away.
Hopler lunges at Rutten with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Rutten's hand.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Rutten shoots in with a lovely double leg takedown. Hopler manages to land in full guard to minimise the damage.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Rutten missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Rutten trying to control but Hopler is working from the bottom.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Rutten might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Hopler kaven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Bas Rutten will probably get the nod.
The cut man is working on Bas Rutten's cut.
That's time! Back to the action!

Rutten tries to clinch up but Hopler circles away and keeps his distance.
Rutten shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Hopler as he jumps to the side.
Hopler stuffs the takedown attempt from Rutten. Rutten gets slowly back to his feet.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Rutten looks for a takedown but Hopler sprawls well.
Sammy Hopler has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Bas Rutten.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Rutten misses with a two punch combination.
Rutten is trying hard to land a takedown here. Hopler sprawls well and keeps this one on the feet.
Hopler shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Rutten as he avoids it easily.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Rutten is defended easily by Hopler.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Rutten has his takedown stuffed
and Rutten takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.

Rutten scores with a takedown into Hopler's guard.

Rutten drops back looking for a leg! Hopler is in trouble here! The fighters roll with the hold and Hopler manages to kick Rutten off! Rutten jumps back into Hopler's guard.
Rutten won't allow Hopler to get back to his feet.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Rutten wants to control from the top but Hopler keeps moving.
Rutten pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Hopler is keeping the position for now.
Rutten trying to control but Hopler is working from the bottom.
Rutten postures up in Hopler's guard and throws a big left but Hopler blocks it.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Rutten pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Hopler is keeping the position for now.
The referee is pacing around the two fighters - he looks like he's thinking about a standup.

The ref stands the fighters back up, due to lack of action by Bas Rutten.
Hopler feints a straight left to the body, then turns around with a flashy move and hits Ruttens jaw with a dramatic spinning back fist!
Hopler avoids the head kick by Rutten.
Rutten shoots in for a takedown but Hopler shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Rutten ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Hopler moves away.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Bas Rutten showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Bas Rutten's cut.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! This is the final round!

Rutten misses with a takedown
and Rutten takes a counter punch right on the button for his troubles.
Hopler misses with the combination.
Rutten shoots in looking for a takedown. Hopler tries to sprawl out of it but Rutten keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Hopler manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Hopler displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Rutten.
Sammy Hopler has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Bas Rutten.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Rutten shoots in for a takedown. "I don't think so" says Hopler as he avoids it easily.
Rutten throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Hopler's waist but Hopler gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Rutten off to one side.
Hopler throws a body punch but Rutten moves out of range.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Well. There's a bit of a lull in the action here and the crowd are starting to get restless.
Rutten bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Hopler misses with a lunging right hand
and Rutten makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Hopler looks to land a right hand but Rutten moved out of range.
Rutten misses with a takedown

and Hopler counters with a shoot takedown. Rutten fights it but they end up in guard.

Hopler gets to his feet. Rutten looking to butt scoot but the ref puts an end to that. On your feet son!

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Hopler scores with a nice takedown into half guard. Let's see what he's got on the ground.
Hopler is thwarting Rutten's attempts to control the position.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

Rutten looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Bas Rutten is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.
Rutten looks like he's trying to stand up.

Hopler decides to return to a standing position.
Rutten shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Hopler but Hopler pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Rutten takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Rutten shoots in but no luck this time.
Hopler lands with a nice body punch.
A combination from Hopler does no damage.
The crowd applaud the fighters efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Rutten throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.
Sammy Hopler has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Rutten misses with a takedown attempt - Hopler sprawls well and throws a nice strike on the way out which just misses.

And that's the end of the fight!
Sammy Hopler showed his dominance in that final round.
I think Rutten 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 Jack Bonds scores the fight 29:29
Judge Timothy Bukovac scores the fight 29:28
Judge Percy O'Donnell scores the fight 28:29

The fight is ruled a draw!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
26%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Studebaker Hawk (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Ceaser Sarney (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Chooooooooon! I think Hawk might be my favorite fighter, now he's come out to silver hawk. Well, I have no idea who's going to take this one!

Hawk
vs
Sarney

186 cm
22
194 lbs
7 - 4 - 0

180 cm
30
190 lbs
10 - 15 - 0

Good takedowns
Solid boxing
Experienced

BJJ Blue Belt
Decent knees
Powerful

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 7 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Studebaker Hawk!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 10 - 15 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Ceaser Sarney!
The judges for this bout are Don Winkell, Frank Antenori and Jack Bonds.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Sarney darts in trying to clinch

so Hawk counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.
Sarney wants to stand but Hawk is controlling the position.
Sarney throws a couple of shots from the bottom but they don't land.
Sarney looking to sweep using the butterfly guard but Hawk puts pay to that idea as he passes nicely into half guard.

Hawk is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Sarney sees it coming and defends easily.
Sarney is trying to stand back up but Hawk is controlling him

Hawk is trying for a kimura here. Sarney looks like he's in a lot of pain... and he's tapping out! Hawk wins by kimura!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:49 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Studebaker Hawk!
Studebaker Hawk is the new middleweight champion!
Studebaker Hawk decided to call for a title shot in his post fight interview, which was very strange given the fact this fight was for a title and he's already the champion. I guess that's what getting punched in the head does for you.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
67%

Main event

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Takeshi Kovacks (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Shane Griffin (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Griffin comes into a darkened arena with his song building. Wait and Bleed by Slipknot kicks in, the lights come on and the crowd goes wild! What a showman! Shane Griffin has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Kovacks
vs
Griffin

190 cm
21
280 lbs
3 - 0 - 0

195 cm
23
280 lbs
9 - 4 - 0

Good wrestling
Solid boxing
Insanely flexible

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent boxer
Powerful

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the super heavyweight 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 Los Angeles, Takeshi Kovacks!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 9 - 4 - 0, fighting out of Los Angeles, Shane Griffin!
The judges for this bout are Don Winkell, Timothy Bukovac and Jack Bonds.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Griffin lands a lovely overhand right.
Kovacks slips a jab from Griffin.
Griffin lands a jab to the nose.

Kovacks closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Griffin can do anything to dispel that myth.
Kovacks throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Griffin managing to avoid any damage from the strikes thrown by Kovacks.
Griffin really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Kovacks. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Kovacks with the ground and pound but Griffin regains half guard under the barage of strikes.

Kovacks is looking for an arm triangle, whilst trying to pass to side control. Griffin doesn't seem that keen to cooperate though. No luck this time Kovacks.
Kovacks 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.
Kovacks tries to pass to full mount but Griffin defends it.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Kovacks lands with a punch from half guard.
Griffin regains full guard, whilst avoiding punches from Kovacks.
Kovacks tries to free his leg and advance position but Griffin is retaining full guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Kovacks with a flurry of punches that miss.
Kovacks working some ground and pound from guard but it's not doing any damage.
Kovacks throws an elbow that misses. Griffin uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Kovacks's guard. Nice move by Griffin!
Kovacks is trying to keep Griffin in close.

Kovacks is working actively off his back, looking to secure an arm or perhaps work for a triangle.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Kovacks is working actively from the bottom, looking for submissions. He's escaped his hips to the side and he's going for an armbar! Griffin has his hands clasped together but Kovacks extends an breaks Griffin's desperate grasp, forcing a tap out due to armbar! Nice BJJ displayed there by Kovacks.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). Takeshi Kovacks!
Takeshi Kovacks is the new super heavyweight champion!
Post fight, an emotional Takeshi Kovacks said 'First I want to thank my opponent for taking the fight. This is a talented division in a talented org. I am simply the more talented guy in it, so...'.