BEF 16 - Miranda vs Sanchez 2 PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Andre Galvao (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Game Time Jones (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Jones comes into a darkened arena with his song building. Smooth Operator kicks in, the lights come on and the crowd goes wild! What a showman! Game Time Jones has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Galvao
vs
Time Jones

188 cm
21
186 lbs
5 - 6 - 0

200 cm
34
255 lbs
11 - 10 - 0

BJJ Brown Belt
Counter fighter
KO power

BJJ Purple Belt
Counter fighter
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the heavyweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 5 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Andre Galvao!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 11 - 10 - 0, fighting out of New York, Game Time Jones!
The judges for this bout are Daniel Cesar, Thiago Cunha and Felipe Paraventi.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
We've got one fighter who appears to only be looking to counter and the other not looking particularly aggressive either, so we could be in for a dull fight.

Jones is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Galvao's half guard.
Galvao is trying to stand up here but Jones is controlling him well.
Jones looks to land a strike but Galvao avoids it nicely and regains full guard.
Jones scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Jones throws an elbow that misses. Galvao uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Jones's guard. Nice move by Galvao!

Jones is working an open guard here, looking to improve his position. No doubt that will leave him open to counters but at least he's being more offensive.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Jones holds on and takes a little breather.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Jones wants to sweep here but Galvao controlling him for the moment.
Jones is pulling down on Galvao's head. It's preventing any offense from Galvao, at least for the moment.
Jones tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Galvao might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are hurling abuse towards the fighters... You can hardly blame them though because there isn't a lot going on in the fight.

Jones is looking for a triangle but Galvao pushes his legs off easily.
Jones looking to hit a scissor sweep but Galvao is one step ahead there.
Jones not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Jones dives in and grabs Galvao's left leg, looking for a takedown. Galvao pushes down on Jones's head and hops out.
Jones fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Both fighters are looking to counter, which isn't making for the most exciting fight in the world.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Nice takedown defense from Galvao. No joy for Jones on that attempt.
Andre Galvao has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Game Time Jones.

Excellent takedown into side control there by Jones.
Galvao parries the strikes from Jones easily there. Jones is wary of posturing up too much because it might enable Galvao to escape.
Jones throwing strikes but missing, from side control.
Galvao is not content to let Jones control the position.
Jones sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Galvao is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
An elbow from Jones crashes against the mat.
Jones wants to lay and pray for a moment but Galvao keeps working.
A lull in the action here.
Jones with the ground and pound but Galvao regains half guard under the barage of strikes.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Jones seems content to maintain position for now, rather than mounting any offense.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Jones manages to get an easy takedown there - catching Galvao on his heels. He'll look to pass Galvao's guard now, I'm sure.
Jones slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Game Time Jones has got the better of the ground game so far.
The fighters are starting to get a bit slippery now, which will make submissions a bit more difficult.
Jones throwing elbows and punches but not connecting, as Galvao works some decent striking defense from the bottom.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Jones not doing a lot at the moment. He'll have to show some more aggression or the fight will get stood up.
Jones missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Jones throws a strike but Galvao rolls with it and manages to sweep. Now he's in guard on top.

There's a bit of a scramble here and now Jones is on top in guard.

Galvao can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Jones controls the pace.
Jones must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Jones throwing strikes from guard but Galvao blocks nicely.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Jones postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.

It looks like Andre Galvao has been cut.
Galvao preventing the ground and pound from doing any damage.
Jones missing there with some ground and pound from the guard.
Jones postures up in Galvao's guard and throws a big left but Galvao blocks it.
Galvao can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Jones controls the pace.
Jones trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Galvao has momentary wrist control but Jones slips an elbow through the middle.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Galvao has momentary wrist control but Jones slips an elbow through the middle.
Jones throwing strikes from guard but Galvao blocks nicely.
Jones slows down the pace of the fight for a moment. He'll need to remain active if he doesn't want to see the fight stood back up.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Jones fails with a takedown attempt.
Galvao looked to counter that last move with a leg kick but didn't pull the trigger.
Andre Galvao is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.

That's four 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.

Excellent takedown into side control there by Jones.
Jones working the body and head with strikes.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Galvao pushes Jones away and creates a bit of space to escape. He's almost out here... but no, Jones gets a good hold of his legs and remains firmly in side control.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Game Time Jones showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
The cut man is working on Andre Galvao's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action! Ladies and gentlemen, this is the final round!

Jones shoots for a double leg takedown but Galvao sprawls well. He's pushed Jones's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.
Jones throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Galvao's waist but Galvao gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Jones off to one side.

Jones closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Jones sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Galvao is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Galvao is trying to escape and get back to his feet.
Galvao regains half guard there - taking advantage of Jones's attempt to lay and pray for a moment.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Jones trying to control from half guard but Galvao is working away.
Jones tries to pass to full mount but Galvao defends it.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Jones lands a nice short elbow.
Jones throwing shots but Galvao is blocking nicely.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Galvao blocking the ground and pound attempt from Jones.

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.
Galvao avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Jones.
Jones thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Galvao's head.
Galvao pushes Jones off looking to stand but Jones dives back in and keeps control.
We may be looking at a referee standup if the pace doesn't pick up soon.
Jones seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Jones misses with a head shot. Galvao uses the momentum to regain guard.
Jones stands up and looks to throw the legs aside to pass to side control. Galvao swivels though and keeps the full guard.
Jones throws an elbow that misses. Galvao uses the momentum to reverse the position. He's now in Jones's guard. Nice move by Galvao!

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Jones not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Jones is working an open guard here, looking to improve his position. No doubt that will leave him open to counters but at least he's being more offensive.
Jones is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Jones is pulling down on Galvao's head. It's preventing any offense from Galvao, at least for the moment.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Jones looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Galvao fires out a quick counter leg kick but Jones just manages to avoid it.
Andre Galvao has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Game Time Jones.

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.
Jones shoots in for a takedown but Galvao shows good takedown defense there and keeps this one on the feet.
Game Time Jones is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.

Jones closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Galvao is trying to get back to his feet.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Jones taking a break here but Galvao is having none of it and regains half guard.
Andre Galvao has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Jones wants to lay and pray for a moment but Galvao keeps working.

And that's the end of the fight!
Game Time Jones comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I've got Jones 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 Daniel Cesar scores the fight 27:30
Judge Thiago Cunha scores the fight 27:30
Judge Felipe Paraventi scores the fight 27:30

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Game Time Jones!
A victorious Game Time Jones thanked his army of followers in his post fight interview, telling people to make sure they follow him on Twitter.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
22%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Johny Hendrics (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jamie Varner (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Tired and clearly flustered, he entered the arena late and after a little discussion it was decided that the bout should take place.
Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Johny Hendrics and Jamie Varner. Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Hendrics
vs
Varner

190 cm
25
250 lbs
1 - 3 - 0

173 cm
16
175 lbs
3 - 1 - 0

Good wrestling
Counter fighter
Granite chin

Good wrestler
Basic striking
Likes musicals

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 1 - 3 - 0, fighting out of London, Johny Hendrics!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Jamie Varner!
The judges for this bout are Thiago Cunha, Mauricio Rocha and Seu Braga.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Varner scores a trip takedown into side control. Nice.
Hendrics defending against the ground and pound.
Hendrics is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Varner off and has taken his back!
Hendrics has good solid back control here.
Varner trying to control the hands but Hendrics breaks the grip.
Varner is being controlled on the ground here - he must escape this position otherwise surely the end is near.
Varner wants to control his opponent's hands but Hendrics gets his hands free.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hendrics is hanging on to Varner's back as he tries to escape.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Hendrics controlling the position well here. Varner rolled but Hendrics kept the hooks locked in and stayed in the dominant position.
Varner can't escape the position.

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.
Hendrics avoiding Varner 's attempts to control his hands.
Hendrics controlling well, preventing Varner from escaping the position.
Varner just trying to survive but Hendrics is wriggling into a better position, looking to finish.
Varner is in bad spot here.
You know, I was talking to some of our celebrities at ringside tonight and they were split right down the middle on who was going to win this fight.
Varner trying to control but not successfully.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
So, who will make the next big move? In this position it could be crucial.
Varner tries to break free.

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.
Hendrics trying to secure his dominant position for a moment - making sure Varner doesn't escape.
Varner trying to control the hands but Hendrics breaks the grip.
Varner tries to escape but Hendrics has the hooks in and won't let him break free.
Hendrics will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
Hendrics controls the position.
Varner tries to roll but Hendrics sticks to his back.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Varner is still trying to improve position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Varner fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Hendrics to the ground. Varner is now in Hendrics's guard.
Varner wants to control from the top but Hendrics keeps moving.
Varner looking to sit in guard and control but Hendrics gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.

The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Hendrics stops Varner from standing up.
Hendrics looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

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

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hendrics is moving around in side control but his primary objective seems to be to maintain the position.
Varner wants to control but Hendrics postures up.
Hendrics is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Varner can do to turn this around?
Hendrics taking a breather here.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are getting on the fighters' backs, as the pace has dropped off in the last minute or so.
Varner looks to move to half guard but instead Hendrics has passed into mount! Damn!
Varner wants to improve position but instead he's given up his back.
I would not like to be Varner right now.
Varner just trying to survive but Hendrics is wriggling into a better position, looking to finish.
I really don't envy Varner right now.
Varner keeps trying to improve his position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Hendrics controls the action.
Hendrics avoiding Varner 's attempts to control his hands.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
You can see the frustration on Varner's face… He knows he is in trouble unless he improves his position sooner rather than later.
So, who will make the next big move? In this position it could be crucial.
Johny Hendrics overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Varner tries to escape the position.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Johny Hendrics dominated that second round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!

Varner shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Hendrics's guard.
A real slowdown in the pace of the fight for a moment, as Hendrics holds on and takes a little breather.
Varner is looking to advance position but Hendrics has hit a scissor sweep - now he's on top in mount!

Hendrics controlling from mount.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Hendrics prevents Varner from getting the reversal.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Hendrics manages to capitalize on a mistake by Varner to take his back!
Good control from Hendrics.

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.
Varner is in bad spot here.
Hendrics controls the action.
You can see the frustration on Varner's face… He knows he is in trouble unless he improves his position sooner rather than later.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Hendrics biding his time, looking for the opening.
Varner is really stuck here.
Hendrics has good solid back control here.
Varner can't escape the position.

That's four 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.
Varner takes a big intake of breath there - he's definitely tired.
So, who will make the next big move? In this position it could be crucial.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Thiago Cunha scores the fight 30:27
Judge Mauricio Rocha scores the fight 30:27
Judge Seu Braga scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Johny Hendrics!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
21%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between John Lineker (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Chris Weidman (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The key to victory for John Lineker has got to be keeping the fight on the feet.

Lineker
vs
Weidman

163 cm
18
139 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

190 cm
25
265 lbs
2 - 3 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Solid boxing
Good chin

Good wrestler
Counter fighter
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 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, John Lineker!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 3 - 0, fighting out of London, Chris Weidman!
The judges for this bout are Leandro Rodrigues, Mauricio Rocha and Edson Gomes.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Weidman takes a shot right to the bread basket.
Lineker lands with a good body shot.
Weidman takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
Lineker throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Lineker misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Weidman.
Weidman tries to counter by closing the distance.
Lineker looks to land a combination but Weidman avoids it well.
Weidman tries to counter with a clinch but Lineker shakes him off and moves away.
Lineker throws a series of strikes that have Weidman backpedaling.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Lineker swings and misses with a hook to the body.
Weidman wants to counter the offense by Lineker and move into the clinch position.
Lineker swings and misses with a shot to the body

and Weidman holds on and brings the fighters into a clinch.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Weidman goes for a takedown attempt but Lineker pushes him away and we're back to fighting at a distance.
Lineker scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Lineker scores with a jab to the body.
Lineker throws a shot to the body.
Lineker is looking light on his feet compared to last time was saw him fight.
Lineker thuds his right hand into Weidman's forehead from close range. That could be painful for both fighters.
John Lineker seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Lineker dips down and scores with a jab to the body.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Lineker throws a series of strikes that have Weidman backpedaling.
Lineker lands a nice shot to the body.
Weidman keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Weidman tries to counter by closing the distance.
Left hook, right uppercut from Lineker.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Lineker misses the shot to the body.
Weidman is on the wrong end of a nice combination from Lineker.
Lineker misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Weidman.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Lineker punishes Weidman's body with a nice straight punch.
Lineker swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Weidman's hands are dropping dangerously low here and Lineker connects clean with a right hook that sends him down to one knee! Weidman scrambles back to his feet.
Lineker is looking to wear down Weidman with body shots, infact he's throwing more body shots than head shots at the moment.
Weidman takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Weidman avoids a punch combination nicely.
Lineker sets himself, and Weidman steps forward looking for the clinch! Lineker avoids it this time.
Lineker throws a sloppy body shot

and Weidman counters by clinching up.
Weidman avoiding damage.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Lineker blocks a knee to the body. He'll have a nicely bruised forearm in the morning.
Weidman has Lineker pressed against the cage, preventing Lineker from circling away and getting back to striking at range.
Lineker prevents the takedown attempt.
Lineker wants to strike at distance but he can't break free of the clinch.
Weidman keeps control of Lineker as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks.
Lineker wants to get back to striking at distance but Weidman won't allow it.
Lineker tries to circle away but Weidman has him pinned against the cage.
The pace slowing considerably in the clinch, as Weidman takes a break from that fighting nonsense to think about the finer things in life.
Lineker being controlled against the cage.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Weidman takes a big uppercut there. He seems a bit wobbly but no, he's OK.
Lineker sizes up Weidman with a pawing jab and scores with a straight right down the middle.
Lineker scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Weidman doesn't seem bothered though.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Weidman has his head snapped back a nice jab. A little nod from Weidman there as he acknowledges the shot.
Lineker is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Weidman can do to turn this around?
Lineker scores with a sloppy punch to the body. Not much technique there but it did the business.
Lineker throws a nice looking combination but Weidman bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Weidman tries to counter by closing the distance.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Lineker connects with a body shot that sends Weidman's belly button to the back.
Lineker connects with a body shot that sends Weidman's belly button to the back.
Lineker lands a nice looking body shot.
Lineker misses with a jab, cross combination.
Lineker swings for the body but Weidman moves out of range.
Weidman tries to counter by closing the distance.
Lineker throws a nice looking combination but Weidman bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Lineker tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Weidman was well out of range. Poor timing from Lineker.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Lineker fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Weidman manages to avoid it.
Weidman is trying to avoid his opponent's strikes and get into the clinch.
Lineker scores with a nice strike.
Lineker cracks a nice hook into Weidman's ribs.
Lineker scores with a hook to the body. Weidman takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.
Lineker misses with a wild combination.
Lineker digs a good body shot into Weidman's ribs.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Lineker looks to land a combination but Weidman avoids it well.
Weidman tries to counter by closing the distance.
Lineker lands a straight punch to the body, keeping Weidman at a distance.
Lineker fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Weidman manages to avoid it.
Weidman wants to counter the offense by Lineker and move into the clinch position.
Lineker scores with a nice one two combo and darts back out of range to avoid anything coming in the opposite direction.
Lineker fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Weidman manages to avoid it.
Lineker just misses with a punch to the body.
Lineker fakes high and swings low for a body shot but Weidman manages to avoid it.
Weidman is trying to avoid his opponent's strikes and get into the clinch.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Lineker connects with a looping left hand that seems like it dazed Weidman momentarily.
Lineker takes a swing at Weidman's ribcage but misses.
Lineker listening to his corner there, landing a nice uppercut.
Lineker misses with a hook to the body

and Weidman counters by moving into the clinch.
Lineker tries to break free but Weidman pushes him back against the cage.
Lineker wants to get back to striking at distance but Weidman won't allow it.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.

Weidman jumps guard.
Lineker might be looking to lock onto one of his opponent's long limbs for a submission, whilst we're on the ground.
Weidman looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.
Lineker looking to sit in guard and control but Weidman gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.

And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

John Lineker dominated that second round.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business. This is the final round!

Lineker misses with a jab, cross combination.
Weidman tries to counter with a clinch but Lineker shakes him off and moves away.
A looping hook to the body misses from Lineker. Weidman does a little dance to reset his feet.
Nice straight punches there by Lineker. You know Roy Jones Jr respects the hands of Lineker.
Lineker misses with a jab, cross combination.
Weidman takes a shot right to the liver - Bas would have been proud of that punch.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Lineker throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Weidman wants to counter the offense by Lineker and move into the clinch position.
Lineker throws a left and a right that both miss

and Weidman counters by clinching up.

Weidman escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Lineker takes a swing at Weidman's ribcage but misses.
Weidman takes one on the chin but seems OK.
Lineker dips down and scores with a jab to the body.
Lineker swings and misses with a shot to the body

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

Weidman has managed to pull guard. Let's see whether he can work an aggressive guard. It will also be interesting to see what tactics Lineker uses from the top position.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Weidman can do anything to dispel that myth.
Weidman bucks up whilst keeping hold of a body lock, managing to reverse the position. Now he's in top in Lineker's guard.

Weidman looking to control the position here, rather than advance.
Weidman advances position into side control!
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Weidman controls the position from side control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Lineker is trying to strike from the bottom but Weidman has passed into full mount.
Weidman moves to back control.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Lineker is being controlled on the ground here - he must escape this position otherwise surely the end is near.
Weidman is continuing to stall.
Lineker trying to control the position but Weidman manages to sink in the hooks.

Weidman is working for a rear naked choke. Lineker is not defending it well and Weidman has tightened it up quickly! This could be all over! Lineker refuses to tap and goes to sleep, forcing the referee to intervene. A little trickle of blood came out of Lineker's nose as his head slumped to the floor. That is naaaasty!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:54 of round 3, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Chris Weidman!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
49%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between James Pearson (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Roy Niga (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). James Pearson has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Pearson
vs
Niga

187 cm
21
270 lbs
8 - 2 - 0

190 cm
21
290 lbs
0 - 41 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Solid boxing
Granite chin

BJJ White Belt
Counter fighter
Determined

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 8 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, James Pearson!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 41 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Roy Niga!
The judges for this bout are Paulo Santos, Mauricio Rocha and Daniel Cesar.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Pearson clinches with his opponent.
Niga should think about turning a few of those tyres round his middle into muscle if he wants people to take him seriously as an athlete.

Pearson escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.
Niga is starting to get sloppy and is letting his hands down. Pearson just took advantage and landed a stinging jab. Oh! Now a right hook, right on the button! Niga has gone limp and this one is over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:10 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punches). James Pearson!

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 super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Peter James (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Marcel Adur (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Peter James has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

James
vs
Adur

179 cm
19
153 lbs
6 - 1 - 0

203 cm
21
265 lbs
11 - 7 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Solid boxing
Granite chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent boxer
Heavy handed

GREEN!160

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 6 - 1 - 0, fighting out of London, Peter James!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 11 - 7 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Marcel Adur!
The judges for this bout are Thiago Cunha, Matheus Silva and Luis Engracia.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
James misses with a head kick.
James throws a head kick but Adur moves out of range.

Adur closes the distance and clinches.

James breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Adur throws a combination but it was largely blocked by James.
Adur lunges in with swinging rights and lefts but James circles away quickly and effectively.
James throws a head kick that half lands.
James tries a head kick but it misses.
Adur lands with a hook. James tried to avoid it but it clipped the top of his head.
James lands a high kick!
Nice shot lands for James.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
James thuds a mid kick into his opponent's body. That will wear on Adur if he has to take too many more of those.
James throws a head kick that misses.
Adur looks like he wants to counter punch here.
James throws a head kick that misses.
Adur appears to be waiting to throw a counter punch to the body.
A head kick misses from James.
James scores with a nice body kick.

That's one minute gone in the round.
James throws a head kick but Adur moves out of range.
James keeps the fight on the outside.
Adur takes a swing at James's ribcage but misses.
Adur throws an overhand right from the outside, which connects and sends James stumbling backwards into the cage! James bounces back off the cage towards Adur, who cracks him with a two punch combination that drops him to his knees! Adur lands two more shots before the referee has chance to intervene - what a finish! Adur celebrates with his corner as the crowd cheer loudly.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:18 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Punches). Marcel Adur!
During a confident post fight interview, Marcel Adur thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
72%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Gustavo Santos (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Shynoi Aoki (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Santos
vs
Aoki

175 cm
19
152 lbs
8 - 1 - 0

179 cm
26
155 lbs
1 - 6 - 0

BJJ Brown Belt
Counter fighter
Good chin

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the lightweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 8 - 1 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Gustavo Santos!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 6 - 0, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Shynoi Aoki!
The judges for this bout are Emerson Jorge, Seu Braga and Edson Gomes.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Aoki slips a straight right by Santos.
Aoki is trying to avoid his opponent's strikes and get into the clinch.
A head kick misses from Santos.
A head kick misses from Santos.
Aoki is trying to avoid his opponent's strikes and get into the clinch.
Aoki blocks a head kick by Santos.
Aoki tries to counter by closing the distance.
Santos throws a series of punches but Aoki avoids them all with ease.
Aoki tries to counter by closing the distance.
Santos misses with a wild body shot.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Aoki blocks the body kick.
Aoki is trying to avoid his opponent's strikes and get into the clinch.
Aoki moves out of range of the strikes.

Santos closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Santos slows the pace down in half guard.
Aoki is refusing to be controlled, as Santos sits in half guard.
Santos prevents Aoki from improving his position.
Santos is trying to control the action in half guard but Aoki is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Santos prevents Aoki from improving his position.

Santos is looking for a kimura. It's going to be difficult to finish that from half guard though and Aoki defends it well.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Aoki looking for a kimura from the bottom but Santos passes into side control!
Santos controls the position.
Aoki wants to control but Santos postures up.
Aoki is looking to reverse the position.
Santos controlling the position from side mount.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Aoki can do anything to dispel that myth.

Aoki wants to control the position but that's not easy when your opponent is in side control! Santos seems to be going for some sort of submission here. Hard to say what - oh, it's a Brabo choke! He's got it! Aoki is tapping! Wow, great finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Brabo Choke). Gustavo Santos!
Gustavo Santos retains his lightweight title!
An out of breath Gustavo Santos 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
29%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between James Morales (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Jake Lewis (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The key to victory for James Morales has got to be keeping the fight on the feet.

Morales
vs
Lewis

174 cm
22
153 lbs
9 - 0 - 0

173 cm
26
142 lbs
5 - 2 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Good knees
Good chin

Good wrestler
Basic striking
Good gas tank

GREEN!160

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the featherweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 9 - 0 - 0, fighting out of London, James Morales!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 5 - 2 - 0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Jake Lewis!
The judges for this bout are Edson Gomes, Leandro Rodrigues and Matheus Silva.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Morales closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Lewis is working for a takedown up against the cage. He can't get it on this occasion though.
Morales connects with a nasty looking knee right to Lewis's face.
Morales prevents a body shot from Lewis.
The referee calls for Morales to work.
Lewis tries for a takedown but Morales manages to get underhooks.
Lewis wants a takedown but no success here.
James Morales has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Jake Lewis.
Morales unloads a knee to the mid-section. Lewis lets out a prehistoric sounding urrrrgh.
Lewis is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Morales utilising his Muay Thai to score with a knee to the body.
Morales tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Lewis avoids it.
Morales has Lewis pressed against the cage, preventing Lewis from circling away and getting back to striking at range.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Lewis trying to control the position but instead, Morales has worked for underhooks and has pushed Lewis into the cage.
Morales keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Lewis's efforts to push away.
Morales content to slow the pace in the clinch.
Lewis can't break the clinch.
Lewis wants to push off and get back to the center of the mat but Morales has him pressed against the cage.
Morales lands a knee to the head.

It looks like Jake Lewis has been cut.
Morales tries to land knees in the clinch but Lewis avoids the damage to the body.
Lewis has Morales pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Morales manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Lewis wants to break free but Morales has control.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are showing their displeasure at the lack of action as loud boos ring out around the arena.
Lewis holding his opponent close, against the cage.
The fighters are pressed against the cage, as the pace of the fight slows.
Lewis looks like he'd prefer to be striking at range right now.
Lewis is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Morales gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.
Lewis is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.
Come on Morales - let's have some action - none of this stalling nonsense.
Lewis changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Morales fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Lewis misses with a takedown
and Morales counters with a two punch combo.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Morales has closed the distance and engaged Lewis in a clinch.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Lewis as Morales tries to tie him up.
Lewis has Morales pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Morales manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Morales tries to land a knee to the head but misses.
Lewis changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Morales fights it off and pushes away nicely.
Lewis throws a looping left and ducks down for a takedown. He's got his arms around Morales's waist but Morales gets an underhook and avoids the takedown by throwing Lewis off to one side.
Morales is looking for a counter combo.
Morales keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.

Lewis darts in and lands a nice takedown into half guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Lewis working over Morales with some ground and pound. Morales looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.
Lewis stalling.
Lewis thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Morales's head.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Lewis thows a huge punch but Morales dodges it nicely.
Lewis lands strikes from half guard.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

James Morales dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Jake Lewis's cut.
The referee calls time. The cornermen exit stage left and we're back to business.

Lewis dives in and grabs Morales's left leg, looking for a takedown. Morales pushes down on Lewis's head and hops out.

Morales moves into the clinch successfully.
Lewis drops to a knee looking for a takedown but Morales gets the underhooks and prevents it.
A battle for position here, against the cage.
Morales prevents the takedown attempt.
James Morales has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Jake Lewis.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Morales unloads a knee to the mid-section. Lewis lets out a prehistoric sounding urrrrgh.
Morales is struggling to control the position.
Lewis wants to stall.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Morales with an attempt at a knee that misses.
Lewis is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.
Morales lands a knee to the body.
Morales stalling against the cage.
The fighters are starting to perspire pretty heavily.
Morales unloads a knee to the mid-section.
James Morales has scored more points in the clinch so far.
Morales lands a knee to the head there! That was nasty!
Morales keeps control of Lewis as he tries to wriggle out of the double underhooks.
Morales landing knees to the head.
Lewis is looking for a takedown.
Morales is pushing Lewis up against the cage, for a bit of lean and pray action. Action being used the in the loosest possible sense of the word.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Lewis is trying to drag Morales to the mat but Morales just about manages to keep his footing. He used the cage to his advantage there.
Lewis is trying to push Morales away but Morales has him pressed against the cage, so he's going nowhere.
Lewis wants a takedown but no success here.
Morales landing knees to the body.
Morales utilising his Muay Thai to score with a knee to the body.
Morales working Lewis over with knees to the body.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Lewis is working for takedown but Morales is calmly controlling the position for now.
Lewis takes a knee to the side of the body.
Lewis is looking for a takedown.
Lewis wants a takedown.

Lewis has moved round to his opponent's back and is looking for a suplex! Oh snap! He's tossed Morales clear over his head and slammed him to the mat!
Morales staying busy and making it hard for Lewis to control.
Morales is being controlled on the ground here - he must escape this position otherwise surely the end is near.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Lewis misses with a punch to the head.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Lewis connects with a big shot to the side of Morales's head.
Lewis missing with punches from the back.
Lewis controls the position.
Lewis's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Lewis throws a big right hand but he misses and hits the mat. Ouch.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

James Morales dominated that second round.
The cut man is working on Jake Lewis's cut.
That's time! Morales's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.

Lewis fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Morales sprawls well initially but Lewis persists and gets the takedown into half guard.
Lewis not landing any meaningful shots this time.
Lewis missing with the ground and pound from half guard.
Lewis stalling.
Lewis lands strikes from half guard.
Morales on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Morales tries to get out of the position.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Lewis has freed up his trapped foot and advances to mount.
Jake Lewis has got the better of the ground game so far.
Lewis takes a little breather and maintains the position. The referee will be looking for him to stay active from such a dominant position though.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Lewis landing strikes from the mount and Morales is in trouble!
Lewis raining down hammerfists from mount.
Lewis scoring with some good ground and pound from mount here. Will he manage to finish Morales?
Morales wants to get back to his feet.
Lewis landing strikes from the mount and Morales is in trouble!

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Lewis is in the full mount, landing strikes.

Morales is rocked!
Lewis raining down hammerfists from mount.
Oh Morales is still in real trouble! Will he be able to recover?!!
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Lewis looking to finish here with some ground and pound. He lands one big shot that has Morales covering up... and two more big strikes land, forcing the referee to step in and put and end to proceedings! This fight is all over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:34 of round 3, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Jake Lewis!
Jake Lewis is the new featherweight champion!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
33%

Main event

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Rodrigo Miranda (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class) and Diego Sanchez (ranked 0 p4p, 0 weight class). The crowd seem to be enjoying Sanchez's choice of entrance music: Not Afraid - Eminen. Rumors backstage are that the fighters have been paid to keep it standing but we know that would never happen in MMA!

Miranda
vs
Sanchez

225 cm
25
300 lbs
1 - 3 - 0

167 cm
19
142 lbs
12 - 1 - 0

Good wrestling
Brawler
KO power

BJJ Brown Belt
Basic striking
Knockout power

GREEN!160

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 1 - 3 - 0, fighting out of London, Rodrigo Miranda!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 12 - 1 - 0, fighting out of London, Diego Sanchez!
The judges for this bout are Emerson Jorge, Alexandre Firmino and Mauricio Rocha.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Miranda misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Sanchez drops down looking to force a counter takedown but Miranda defends it well.
Sanchez keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Miranda.

Sanchez drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
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.
Sanchez trying to control the action but Miranda is working from the bottom.
Miranda struggling a bit here.
Miranda is looking to work his way out of this bad position but Sanchez is controlling him well.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Miranda is looking for a sweep.
Miranda isn't going anywhere.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Sanchez wants to control but Miranda is keeping him busy.
Miranda can't do much from the bottom here.
The referee is asking the fighters to pick up the pace.
Miranda on his back here. We all know that wrestlers don't like being on their back so let's see if Miranda tries to get out of the position.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Miranda pivots as if he's going to throw a leg kick but stops half way.

Sanchez closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Miranda's guard.
Miranda not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Sanchez won't allow Miranda to sweep him here.
Miranda is trying to control the position but Sanchez postures up.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Miranda thows some rabbit punches from the bottom but they don't do any damage.

Miranda looking for a guillotine here but Sanchez defends easily.
Miranda wants to sweep but no luck.
Miranda knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Sanchez on the ground.
Miranda wants to control but instead he gets his guard passed and Sanchez is now in half guard.
Sanchez is thwarting Miranda's attempts to control the position.
Miranda works his way to full guard. Good work.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Sanchez trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Miranda looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Miranda is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Miranda tries to close the distance and clinch but Sanchez swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.

Sanchez fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Miranda to the ground. Sanchez is now in Miranda's guard.
Miranda keeping moving, preventing Sanchez from controlling successfully.
Miranda wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Sanchez won't allow Miranda to get back to his feet.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Miranda has Sanchez pulled in close to control his posture.
Miranda is looking to stand back up but Sanchez counters by passing into half guard. Oops... bit sloppy there by Miranda.
Sanchez is keen to just control but Miranda is a slippery customer.
Miranda wants to improve his position but Sanchez is controlling well.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Miranda is trying to stand.

The referee decides to stand the fighters back up.
Rodrigo Miranda is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.
Miranda tries to score with an inside leg kick but telegraphs it and Sanchez is able to avoid easily.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Miranda tries to close the distance and clinch up against the cage but Sanchez paws at him with a jab and circles away.

Sanchez shoots in from a long way out. He's driving through with the takedown attempt and he eventually gets it, landing in Miranda's guard.
Miranda keeping moving, preventing Sanchez from controlling successfully.
Miranda tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Sanchez pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Miranda is keeping the position for now.
Miranda looking for a sweep. Not yet Miranda, not yet.
Miranda will need to keep those long limbs tucked in whilst he's on the ground, to prevent any submissions.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Miranda wants to control but instead he gets his guard passed and Sanchez is now in half guard.
Miranda wants to improve his position but Sanchez is controlling well.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Miranda is trying is best to control the position here.
Miranda wants to get back to his feet.
The referee claps his hands together and tells the fighters to work.
Miranda trying to control here.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Miranda throws a leg kick but Sanchez sees it coming and checks it nicely.

Sanchez gets a takedown into half guard.
Miranda tries to get to full guard but Sanchez has control of the leg.
Sanchez passes to side control.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Miranda tries to get back to his feet but has found himself mounted instead. Damn, that's gotta suck.
Sanchez trying to control but Miranda is having none of it.
Miranda wants to control but Sanchez is having none of it.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Miranda is in a bad position, trying to hold on for dear life but he is really struggling to maintain any sort of control.
Miranda is wriggling around trying to escape.

Sanchez looks like he's working for a submission but he's not found anything just yet.
Miranda can't escape the position.

Sanchez get's back to his feet.
Sanchez showing good head movement there, avoiding the strikes from Miranda.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Sanchez is looking for a takedown here. He's shot in and has managed to get it, finishing up in Miranda's half guard.
Miranda wants to improve his position but Sanchez is controlling well.

Miranda is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Sanchez pulls his head out easily.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Miranda wants to control but Sanchez is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Miranda tries to kick Sanchez off in order to stand up. Sanchez Avoids the leg push though and dives into side control.

Sanchez tries for an arm triangle. That looks pretty tight to me. Is this one over!?! Possibly, maybe, no Sanchez has let go of the choke. Obviously it wasn't as tight as we thought!
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Diego Sanchez showed his class in that round. I'd imagine he'll take it on all the scorecards.
Well, the break between rounds is over. Let's get back to the scrappin!

Miranda throws a decent looking leg kick but it doesn't land clean.
Miranda fails with an attempt to clinch.
Miranda looks to land a combination but Sanchez avoids it well.
Rodrigo Miranda is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
An inside leg kick from Miranda misses.
Sanchez blocks a head kick by Miranda.

Sanchez fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Miranda to the ground. Sanchez is now in Miranda's guard.
Sanchez stopping the sweep attempt from Miranda.
Miranda not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Miranda is looking to get back to his feet but can't, whilst Sanchez is controlling him.
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Miranda is trying to control the position but Sanchez postures up.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Miranda looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Miranda keeping moving, preventing Sanchez from controlling successfully.
The referee looks like he's ready to step in and stand the fighters back up.

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

Sanchez tries to keep at a distance but Miranda has taken the fight into the clinch.

Miranda breaks the clinch.

Miranda gets taken down but at least he's managed to land in guard.
Miranda is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.
Sanchez has been the more effective fighter overall so far.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Miranda looking for a sweep. Not yet Miranda, not yet.
Miranda working a defensive guard here.
Miranda wants to stand but Sanchez is controlling the position.
Miranda is controlling Sanchez's posture.
Miranda has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Sanchez has passed into side control.
Miranda tries to slip a leg under to move to half guard but Sanchez presses down on the leg and jumps into full mount!

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Miranda slips a leg in and gets back to half guard.

Sanchez is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Miranda has managed to free his arm - good work.
Miranda tries to roll over but Sanchez keeps him under control.

Miranda is defending against the submission attempts here by Sanchez.
Miranda trying to control here.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Miranda controlling the position well.
Sanchez prevents Miranda from improving his position.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Miranda keeping hold of Sanchez's head, controlling as best he can.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Sanchez drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Sanchez wants to lay and pray for a moment but Miranda keeps working.
Miranda is looking for a sweep.
You can see the frustration on Miranda's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Miranda wants to get back to his feet but Sanchez drags him back down.
Sanchez wants to lay and pray for a moment but Miranda keeps working.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Miranda holds on to Sanchez's head and controls the position momentarily.
If this pace continues, the referee will definitely step in and force a standup.
Miranda sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Miranda is trying is best to control the position here.
Miranda's ground tactics aren't going to win him many fans. Let's hope he's got fireworks for us if he gets back to his feet because he's not doing much on the ground.

The referee has decided to stand the fighters back up, so we'll restart on the feet.
Miranda moves in looking to clinch but Sanchez pushes him off.

Miranda rushes Sanchez and pushes him back against the cage in a clinch.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.

Sanchez has double underhooks and is working for a body lock takedown. He's got it. The fighters land in half guard but Miranda regains guard immediately.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Sanchez stopping the sweep attempt from Miranda.
Miranda is doing well to control the posture of his opponent and prevent any damage.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Miranda keeping moving, preventing Sanchez from controlling successfully.

Miranda has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Sanchez can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
Sanchez trying to control the position from guard on top but Miranda is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.

Sanchez stands and steps away. Miranda gets to his feet too and we're back to the striking game.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Miranda tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Sanchez manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.

Sanchez changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Miranda looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.

Sanchez tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Miranda is looking to regain half guard here but Sanchez keeps moving and retains side control.
A control attempt from Miranda but he's now mounted!
Sanchez wants to take his opponent's back but Miranda doesn't allow it.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Miranda is looking to get to half guard.

Sanchez working for a submission but Miranda is keeping him at bay.
Miranda working to try and regain half guard.
Miranda is working hard here to advance position.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Miranda tries to clinch but Sanchez moves out of range.
Sanchez feints the counter takedown.
A punch combination from Miranda misses.

Sanchez closes the distance, clinches up and gets a nice trip takedown into side control. Very smooth.
Miranda holds on to Sanchez's head and controls the position momentarily.
Miranda is looking for a sweep.
Sanchez working away.

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

Sanchez is trying to land an Americana. He has the arm isolated but Miranda is keeping cool and he's avoided the danger for now.
Both of our modern day gladiators look out of it here - a gruelling 5 rounds of action taking it's toll on them, no doubt.
Miranda is positioning himself to get back to half guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Miranda wants to get back to his feet but Sanchez is dominant here and he's now got Miranda's back!

Sanchez tightening his grip on Miranda, looking for the choke.
Miranda is trying to get back to his feet but Sanchez has full control of the position and if anything, Miranda has just worked his way into a worse spot.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Diego Sanchez has got the better of the ground game so far.
Miranda trying to control the position but Sanchez manages to sink in the hooks.
Miranda is defending well here and trying to improve his position.
Miranda trying to control the hands but Sanchez won't let him.
Sanchez trying to control momentarily.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Miranda trying to control but he's just got himself in more trouble.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:40 of round 5, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Diego Sanchez!
Diego Sanchez is the new super heavyweight champion!
During a confident post fight interview, Diego Sanchez thanked all his fans. He seemed very genuine when describing how motivated his fans keep him.