SPARTA 22 PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a bantamweight MMA rules bout between Bobrov Larionovich (ranked 5392 p4p, 200 weight class) and Ricardo Rasgado (ranked 7225 p4p, 219 weight class). Bobrov Larionovich could well score a knockout today. He has the power to get to Ricardo Rasgado's chin.

Larionovich
vs
Rasgado

164 cm
25
142 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

171 cm
25
137 lbs
0 - 2 - 0

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Cuts easily

BJJ White Belt
Excellent boxer
Heavy handed

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the bantamweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Bobrov Larionovich!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Ricardo Rasgado!
The judges for this bout are Winston Alpacca, Michael Johnstone and Santiago Holmes.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Rasgado scores with a nice right hand.
Rasgado tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Larionovich was well out of range. Poor timing from Rasgado.
Larionovich changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Jab, jab by Rasgado - just one landing.
Larionovich is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Rasgado.
Rasgado avoids a lazy jab quite easily.
Rasgado swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
Rasgado lands with a good body shot.
Larionovich drops his hands and takes a jab to the jaw for his troubles.

It looks like Bobrov Larionovich has been cut.
Larionovich ducks right into an uppercut from Rasgado.
Larionovich slips under a jab.
Rasgado throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.

Rasgado moves into the clinch.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Larionovich misses with some punches.
Rasgado lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Larionovich backwards.

Larionovich breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.

Rasgado instigates a clinch.
Larionovich tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.

That's one minute gone in the round.
A nice left hand lands by Rasgado.
Rasgado swings wildly with an uppercut but Larionovich uses good head movement to avoid it.
Rasgado blocks a punch to the side of the head.
Larionovich fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Rasgado lands a right uppercut that snaps the head of Larionovich backwards.
Larionovich misses with the head strike.
A head punch on the inside from Rasgado fails to land.
Rasgado lands punches inside but they're not really causing much damage.
A short right from Rasgado on the inside.

Larionovich escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.

Rasgado moves into the clinch successfully.
A nice left hand lands by Rasgado.

Larionovich breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A slow jab from Rasgado misses its intended target.
Larionovich changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Larionovich misses with an uppercut
and Rasgado counters with a nice uppercut.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Rasgado lands a jab to the head.

Larionovich is rocked!
Rasgado connects with a picture perfect right hand that knocks Larionovich out cold! This one is over in a flash!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:20 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Ricardo Rasgado!
After the fight, Ricardo Rasgado was humble in paying tribute to his opponent but made it clear he wants to go on to bigger and better things. It seemed to go down well with the crowd who cheered him loudly.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
59%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Gerardo Abellan (ranked 4785 p4p, 452 weight class) and Nevzorov Stepanovich (ranked 5387 p4p, 468 weight class). Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Abellan
vs
Stepanovich

180 cm
25
157 lbs
1 - 2 - 0

170 cm
25
162 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Excellent boxer
Very strong

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the lightweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Gerardo Abellan!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Nevzorov Stepanovich!
The judges for this bout are Winston Alpacca, Bart Greer and Peter Branson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Stepanovich rushes in with a sloppy looking punch
letting Abellan counter with a right hand.
Stepanovich dives in and grabs Abellan's left leg, looking for a takedown. Abellan pushes down on Stepanovich's head and hops out.
Abellan bobs and weaves and unloads with a good uppercut.

Stepanovich throws a loose over hand right and dives in with a double leg takedown. Abellan tries to sprawl but it's too late and the fighters hit the mat. Stepanovich is in Abellan's guard.
We've been hearing good reports from Abellan's training camp. Apparently he has been rolling around with some good quality BJJ practitioners and has been sharpening his skills. Let's see if that has an impact on the fight today.
Abellan wants to control here, rather than go for any submissions from the bottom. At least for now.
Stepanovich looking to pass the guard.
Abellan knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Stepanovich on the ground.
Stepanovich passes easily into side control. Nice work.

Stepanovich wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Abellan, who protects the arm well.

Stepanovich wants to work for a kimura but he's foiled early by Abellan, who protects the arm well.
Abellan wants to control but Stepanovich postures up.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!

Stepanovich goes for an armbar here - this could be all over! But no, Abellan has escaped beautifully and is now on top in side control! Oh, that's unlucky for Stepanovich but great work by Abellan.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Stepanovich tries to work a leg under to get back to half guard but Abellan wriggles his own leg back out and remains in side control.
Abellan wants to control but Stepanovich is keeping him busy.
Stepanovich is looking to regain half guard here but Abellan keeps moving and retains side control.
Abellan taking a breather here.
Stepanovich manages to land a sweep and he's now on top! Lovely Jiu Jitsu!

Stepanovich is working for a submission of some sort.
Stepanovich tries to pass to full mount but Abellan defends it.

Stepanovich is working for submissions here but there's nothing on.

Stepanovich is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Abellan is holding on to half guard well.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Stepanovich wants to pass the guard but Abellan is defending well.

Stepanovich is sneakily working for an arm triangle but Abellan sees it coming and defends easily.

Stepanovich is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.

Stepanovich looking for a kimura but he'll have to free his other leg if he wants to finish that. Perhaps he's just using it as a distraction technique.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.

Stepanovich is trying to work for a kimura. This could be trouble! No, Abellan has managed to free his arm - good work.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Stepanovich passes to full mount!

Stepanovich goes for an armbar but he's fallen flat on his backside there and now Abellan is on top in guard.

Stepanovich looking for a guillotine here but Abellan defends easily.

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

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

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Abellan showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Abellan has to be careful here, sitting in the guard of a superior BJJ player.

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

Stepanovich is working for submissions here. He's thrown up his legs looking for a triangle but Abellan frees his head nicely. Oh but Stepanovich has switched to an armbar! Abellan is tapping furiously! Lovely submission there!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 4:43 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle Armbar). Nevzorov Stepanovich!
In his post fight interview, Nevzorov Stepanovich started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
40%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Mohammed Shabazz (ranked 4348 p4p, 345 weight class) and Kaverin Vladislavovich (ranked 5390 p4p, 379 weight class). Mohammed Shabazz is staring across the cage at his opponent, tweaking his nipples... Tweaking his own nipples that is.

Shabazz
vs
Vladislavovich

170 cm
25
153 lbs
1 - 2 - 0

167 cm
25
152 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid boxing
Big heart

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the featherweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Mohammed Shabazz!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Kaverin Vladislavovich!
The judges for this bout are Sandra Marshall, Daniel Franklin and Winston Alpacca.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Shabazz throws a nice looking combination but Vladislavovich bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Vladislavovich throws a lazy right hand but Shabazz sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Shabazz misses with a body shot.
Vladislavovich shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Shabazz as he jumps to the side.
Shabazz swings wildly with a couple of big hooks

and Vladislavovich counters with a nice shoot takedown that brings the fighters to the ground.
Vladislavovich passes easily into side control. Nice work.

Vladislavovich looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Shabazz struggling a bit here.

Vladislavovich working hard here to secure a kimura but he's not really in the right position for it.

Vladislavovich swings around for an armbar but Shabazz sees it coming a mile off and turns beautifully into Vladislavovich's guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Vladislavovich looking to sweep here. No luck so far.

Vladislavovich has thrown up a leg looking for a triangle. Shabazz doesn't defend quickly enough and Vladislavovich has managed to lock this one up! Can Shabazz escape?! NO! He's tapping out! Damn, that was a quick submission - congrats to Vladislavovich on a fantastic submission victory.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:31 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Triangle). Kaverin Vladislavovich!
Kaverin Vladislavovich 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
62%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between George Adams (ranked 4288 p4p, 62 weight class) and Isayev Artemovich (ranked 5384 p4p, 74 weight class). Adams comes to the cage accompanied by stiff upper lip. Adams has a slight injury, which hopefully won't affect the fight too much. Both fighters look fresh as a daisy as they make their way towards the cage.

Adams
vs
Artemovich

180 cm
25
250 lbs
1 - 1 - 0

180 cm
25
245 lbs
0 - 0 - 0

Decent wrestler
Basic striking
KO power

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Solid 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 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, George Adams!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Isayev Artemovich!
The judges for this bout are David Hoff, Daniel Franklin and Winston Alpacca.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
A telegraphed right hand from Artemovich misses the target.
Adams is looking for a counter combo.

Artemovich gets a double leg takedown into Adams's guard.
Adams can't keep his opponent in guard - Artemovich advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.

Artemovich is looking for a kimura but he's never going to get it from there.
Artemovich works his foot free and advances to mount.

Artemovich working for a submission but Adams is keeping him at bay.

Artemovich with some aggressive grappling here. He's looking for submissions here, rather than waiting for the opportunity to counter.
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!

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

Artemovich is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Adams defends well.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Artemovich had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Adams defends it easily.
Adams knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Artemovich on the ground.
Artemovich looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Adams pushes down on Artemovich's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Artemovich is refusing to be controlled, as Adams sits in half guard.

Artemovich is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Adams pulls his head out easily.
Adams thows a huge punch but Artemovich dodges it nicely.

Artemovich has hold of a guillotine but he's not going to be able to crank on it really with only half guard, so it's no trouble for Adams. Oh but Artemovich has got full guard now! Oh boy! This one could be over very soon! Adams goes limp - he's gone! Artemovich jumps up and celebrates with the crowd - fantastic submission finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:59 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Isayev Artemovich!
After the fight, Isayev Artemovich was humble in paying tribute to his opponent but made it clear he wants to go on to bigger and better things. It seemed to go down well with the crowd who cheered him loudly.
In defeat, George Adams stepped up to the mic, saying 'sorry my peeps'.

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 middleweight MMA rules bout between Brook Whitebeard (ranked 3492 p4p, 399 weight class) and David Ngoss (ranked 3964 p4p, 430 weight class). Whitebeard kept the crowd waiting but all that was forgotten when his ring entrance music started. The incomparable musical genius that is Remember The Name. These two fighters really are very evenly matched on the feet - it will be fascinating to see who can assert themselves in that aspect of the fight.

Whitebeard
vs
Ngoss

185 cm
25
192 lbs
2 - 2 - 0

182 cm
25
180 lbs
1 - 2 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Excellent MT
Granite chin

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid Muay Thai
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Brook Whitebeard!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, David Ngoss!
The judges for this bout are Santiago Holmes, Bart Greer and Peter Branson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Nice defenses there by Ngoss.
Whitebeard swings for the body but Ngoss moves out of range.
Ngoss tries to close the distance and clinch but Whitebeard swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Nice shot by Whitebeard.
Whitebeard throws a nice looking combination but Ngoss bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Boom, another hit is landed. "You're gunna get knocked out" taunts Whitebeard, as that shot connected.
Whitebeard just misses with a punch to the body.
Whitebeard fakes a head shot and lands one to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Ngoss tries to clinch but Whitebeard is having none of it.
Whitebeard takes a swing at Ngoss's ribcage but misses.
A shot to the liver by Whitebeard. Beautiful body shot.
Ngoss's coach down at Temp Spar Gym was telling us pre-fight that they have been working on Ngoss's balance. Obviously they view that as a key factor in the outcome of this fight.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Ngoss uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Whitebeard.
Ngoss uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Whitebeard.
Whitebeard misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Ngoss.
Whitebeard sets himself, and Ngoss steps forward looking for the clinch! Whitebeard avoids it this time.
Ngoss tries to close the distance and clinch but Whitebeard swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Ngoss takes a solid shot to the body. That one hurt him but he's trying not to show it.
Whitebeard is moving around nicely and scores here with a single head shot.
A big right from Whitebeard misses.
Ngoss tries to counter by closing the distance.

Whitebeard tries to keep at a distance but Ngoss has taken the fight into the clinch.
A short body shot lands from Whitebeard as the two fighters clinch.
Ngoss has hold of a leg and is looking for a trip takedown. Whitebeard avoids it nicely though and we remain in the clinch.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

Ngoss successfully pulls guard.
Ngoss can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Whitebeard controls the pace.

Ngoss 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! Whitebeard rolls with it to try and escape but Ngoss cranks on the arm and Whitebeard is forced to tap out! This one is aaaaaaaaall over!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:57 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Armbar). David Ngoss!
An out of breath David Ngoss 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
39%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Markus Somerkoski (ranked 2720 p4p, 326 weight class) and Hulk Hogan (ranked 3450 p4p, 394 weight class). Hogan has chosen My Time Is Now as his entrance music, which hasn't gone down very well with the crowd. Hulk Hogan is the more experienced fighter, so let's see if that makes a difference tonight.

Somerkoski
vs
Hogan

171 cm
25
188 lbs
1 - 0 - 0

169 cm
25
193 lbs
2 - 3 - 0

Good takedowns
Basic striking
Big heart

Good wrestler
Basic striking
Powerful

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the middleweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Markus Somerkoski!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 3 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Hulk Hogan!
The judges for this bout are Bart Greer, Daniel Franklin and Santiago Holmes.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Hogan shoots in and gets a takedown into half guard. Hogan showed some decent athleticism there.

Somerkoski actively working from the bottom here.
Nice strikes from Hogan there.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Hogan working Somerkoski over with strikes.
Somerkoski is pressing down on Hogan's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
My spies in Temp Spar Gym inform me that Hogan has been getting involved in the gym's BJJ sparring sessions. Let's see whether that pays dividends!

Somerkoski looking for a guillotine here but Hogan defends easily.
Hogan cracks Somerkoski with a solid left hand.
Hogan stands up over Somerkoski, holding on to his feet. Hogan throws the legs to one side and dives in with a huge shot that lands flush on the chin! Somerkoski is out cold! Hogan lands a couple more shots and the ref tackles him out of the way! What a brutal finish!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:50 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Hulk Hogan!
During a confident post fight interview, Hulk Hogan 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
100%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a bantamweight MMA rules bout between Apidej Sit Hirun (ranked 2719 p4p, 121 weight class) and Augusto Cassel (ranked 2968 p4p, 129 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Sit Hirun
vs
Cassel

169 cm
25
136 lbs
3 - 2 - 0

160 cm
25
140 lbs
3 - 1 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Granite chin

Good wrestler
Brawler
Granite chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the bantamweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 3 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Apidej Sit Hirun!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Augusto Cassel!
The judges for this bout are Daniel Franklin, Dirk Anderson and Michael Johnstone.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Cassel fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Sit Hirun was looking to counter that last move with a shot to the body but he didn't commit.
Sit Hirun lands with a right hand.
Sit Hirun displaying good standup as he scores with a three punch combination.

Sit Hirun fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Cassel, pushing him back against the cage.
Cassel has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Sit Hirun is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
Cassel has Sit Hirun pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Sit Hirun manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Apidej Sit Hirun has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Augusto Cassel.
Sit Hirun pushes Cassel back against the cage and lands a hook to the side of the head.
Good body shot from Sit Hirun.
Sit Hirun lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
A head punch on the inside from Sit Hirun fails to land.
Cassel has dropped down and is looking to force the takedown but it's defended by Sit Hirun after a bit of a struggle.
Sit Hirun lands a left hand that snaps the head of Cassel backwards.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Sit Hirun misses with a hook from the clinch.
With the fighters clinched against the cage, Sit Hirun creates a bit of distance for himself and scores with a nice uppercut.
Sit Hirun lands with a light punch inside.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Sit Hirun.
Cassel's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Cassel has Sit Hirun pressed up against the cage and is working for takedown. Sit Hirun manages to improve position though and keeps the fight standing.
Sit Hirun lands with a short punch from the clinch.
Cassel is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Sit Hirun pulls him back up using the underhooks.
Cassel takes a shot to the head.
Sit Hirun scores with a nice hook to the head.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Cassel changes levels and goes for a takedown here. Sit Hirun fights it off and pushes away nicely.

Sit Hirun fakes with an overhand right and moves in to clinch with Cassel, pushing him back against the cage.
Cassel is looking to take this one to the mat.
A nice right hand lands inside from Sit Hirun.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Sit Hirun lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Sit Hirun tries a body shot but Cassel blocks it.
Sit Hirun lands a body shot.
Sit Hirun makes some space for himself and lands an uppercut.
Sit Hirun lands a left hand that snaps the head of Cassel backwards.
Sit Hirun lands a right hand that snaps the head of Cassel backwards.
Sit Hirun looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Sit Hirun softening up his opponent with strikes, against the cage.

Cassel is rocked!
Sit Hirun digs a right hand into Cassel's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Cassel's gas tank.
Cassel is still on wobbly legs! Can Sit Hirun finish him?
Cassel's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Sit Hirun creates some distance for himself and unleashes a massive uppercut that sends Cassel's eyes rolling into the back of his head! Cassel drops to his knees and Sit Hirun pours it on with more strikes until the referee steps in to end the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:22 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Apidej Sit Hirun!
Apidej Sit Hirun decided to hype himself up post fight. It was going well but he went on about it a bit too long and the crowd turned on him a little.

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 Tongchai Tor Silachai (ranked 3074 p4p, 43 weight class) and Johnny Jacobs (ranked 3586 p4p, 125 weight class). The crowd seem to be enjoying Jacobs's choice of entrance music: up to my neck. Tongchai Tor Silachai has a significant reach advantage - let's see if he can make it count.

Tor Silachai
vs
Jacobs

196 cm
25
255 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

185 cm
25
270 lbs
2 - 1 - 0

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Granite chin

Good takedowns
Brawler
Solid 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 The Island, Tongchai Tor Silachai!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Johnny Jacobs!
The judges for this bout are Michael Johnstone, Bart Greer and Santiago Holmes.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Jacobs takes an uppercut right on the jaw but it doesn't phase him.
Tor Silachai definitely looks more muscular than last time we saw him fight.
Jacobs shoots and misses
and Tor Silachai counters with a nice jab to the body that keeps Jacobs thinking.

Jacobs has managed to clinch.
Tor Silachai working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
A short right from Tor Silachai.
Tor Silachai lands a shoulder strike that jolts his opponent's head backwards.
Tor Silachai scores with a shoulder strike.
Tor Silachai lands with a short shot to the head.
A nice right hand lands inside from Tor Silachai.
The crowd are loving this. Great action here.
Jacobs tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.
Jacobs is working for takedown but Tor Silachai is calmly controlling the position for now.
Tongchai Tor Silachai has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Johnny Jacobs.
Jacobs misses with an elbow over the top.
Tor Silachai working some nice short punches in the clinch.
Jacobs wants to break free. God knows he wants to breaaaak freeee.
A short right from Tor Silachai on the inside.
Jacobs misses with a knee strike.
Jacobs is trying to work for a single leg takedown but Tor Silachai pulls him back up using the underhooks.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Both fighters working to control the clinch.
A short uppercut from Tor Silachai.
Tor Silachai lands a right hand.
Tor Silachai lands a right hand.
Tor Silachai lands an uppercut.
Tor Silachai lands on the inside with an uppercut.
Tor Silachai throws a blind hook that connects with the side of Jacobss head.
Tor Silachai lands with a short shot to the head.

Jacobs is rocked!
Jacobs looks like he'd prefer to be striking at range right now.
Tor Silachai working on landing some head shots here - that one got through nicely.
Tor Silachai scores with a shot to the side of Jacobs's head.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Tor Silachai scores with an uppercut up the middle.
Jacobs is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Tor Silachai is defending well for now.
Jacobs takes a shot to the head.
Jacobs wants to push off and get back to the center of the mat but Tor Silachai has him pressed against the cage.
Jacobs is working for takedown but Tor Silachai is calmly controlling the position for now.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Jacobs's head jolts backwards as he takes an uppercut right on the button!
Tor Silachai digs a right hand underneath Jacobs's ribcage. Jacobs let out a lung full of air as it connected.
Jacobs looks winded!
An uppercut to the body lands inside from Tor Silachai.
Tor Silachai digs a right hand into Jacobs's ribs. Those have got to be taking their toll on Jacobs's gas tank.
Tor Silachai lands a short shot on the inside that snaps the head of Jacobs backwards.

Tor Silachai drops Jacobs onto one knee with a big uppercut from the clinch! Jacobs is propped up by the cage and works his way back to his feet!
Jacobs is still on wobbly legs! Can Tor Silachai finish him?
Tor Silachai lands a right hand.
Tor Silachai lands an uppercut in the clinch that drops Jacobs to his knees! Tor Silachai keeps firing more shots against his stricken opponent and the referee jumps in to save him!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:40 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Strikes). Tongchai Tor Silachai!
In his post fight interview, Tongchai Tor Silachai started talking himself up. Luckily his charisma kept the crowd on side and gave him a good reception.
Johnny Jacobs was interviewed post fight and said 'sorry to the fans'.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
72%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a bantamweight MMA rules bout between Nick Gracie Jr (ranked 931 p4p, 43 weight class) and Kobi Shelton (ranked 1699 p4p, 79 weight class). Both fighters will be looking to make this an exciting fight for the fans, I'm sure!

Gracie Jr
vs
Shelton

163 cm
25
141 lbs
4 - 1 - 0

158 cm
25
142 lbs
3 - 0 - 0

Powerful takedowns
Basic striking
Very strong

Good wrestler
Basic striking
Powerful

BEAST

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the bantamweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 4 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Nick Gracie Jr!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 3 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Kobi Shelton!
The judges for this bout are Peter Branson, Sandra Marshall and David Hoff.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Shelton looks shocked there as he takes a right hand to the temple.
Gracie Jr throws a body shot but no joy.
Gracie Jr throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Shelton slips under a jab.
Shelton keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Shelton with the counter takedown but Gracie Jr avoids it easily.
Shelton slips a straight right by Gracie Jr.
Gracie Jr throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
Good shot there by Shelton.
Gracie Jr misses with a hook. Shelton ducked under it nicely.
Gracie Jr throws a hard body shot but it just misses.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Gracie Jr is defended easily by Shelton.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Gracie Jr misses the jab.
Gracie Jr takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Shelton shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.

Gracie Jr fakes an overhand right and shoots for a takedown. Shelton sprawls well initially but Gracie Jr persists and gets the takedown into half guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Gracie Jr is trying to control the action in half guard but Shelton is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Shelton is looking for a sweep. Gracie Jr is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.
Gracie Jr trying to control from half guard but Shelton is working away.
Shelton trying to hold on to Gracie Jr's head to control him but Gracie Jr postures up.
Shelton is trying to get back to full guard.
Gracie Jr is looking to pass Shelton's guard but actually Shelton recovers to full guard.
Shelton has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Gracie Jr has improved his flexibility recently so we will have to see if he can use that to his advantage.
Gracie Jr wants to control from the top but Shelton keeps moving.
Gracie Jr is really struggling to control Shelton but he's trying to hold on to the position.

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.
Gracie Jr is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Gracie Jr with a flurry of punches that miss.
Gracie Jr trying to control the position from guard on top but Shelton is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Shelton looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Gracie Jr ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Shelton moves away.
Gracie Jr keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.

Shelton changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Gracie Jr looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Gracie Jr manages to get back to half guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Shelton is looking to take a break and control but Gracie Jr is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Gracie Jr has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Shelton is working away from the top position though.
Shelton sitting in half guard, looking to land shots. Gracie Jr defending well though.

Gracie Jr is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Shelton pulls his head out easily.
Gracie Jr taking some punishment here, with Shelton in his half guard.
Shelton drops an elbow to the side of Gracie Jr's head.
Gracie Jr works his way to full guard. Good work.
Shelton wants to control from the top but Gracie Jr keeps moving.

Gracie Jr escapes his hips to the side and looks to be working for an armbar. Shelton gives him a little smile and shakes his head. No chance.
Shelton postures up.
Gracie Jr tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Shelton really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Gracie Jr. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Shelton works over Gracie Jr with some ground and pound from guard.
Shelton scores with a decent looking elbow strike.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gracie Jr not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Shelton landing some decent shots from guard.

Gracie Jr looking for submissions off his back, moving his hips, looking for an opening.
Shelton distracts Gracie Jr with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.

Gracie Jr is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Shelton is aware though and is defending well.
Gracie Jr tries to land a sweep but no joy.

Gracie Jr working for a triangle but Shelton defends it easily.

Gracie Jr looking for submissions from the bottom here. Moving his hips around, possibly looking for an armbar.
Gracie Jr is breathing heavily.
Shelton is working the ground and pound from guard. He might want to try advancing position though to get more of an impact.
Shelton lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Shelton trying to control but Gracie Jr is working from the bottom.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Shelton pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Gracie Jr is keeping the position for now.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close round but I would say that Nick Gracie Jr will probably get the nod.
The fighters' corners scream their final instructions, as the referee calls time. Here we go, back to the action!

Shelton ducks under a wild hook from Gracie Jr.

Shelton drives through with a really nice takedown into side control.
Gracie Jr sneaks a leg under to get back to half guard.
Gracie Jr tries to get to full guard but Shelton has control of the leg.
Shelton trying to control the pace.
Gracie Jr is trying to get back to full guard.
Shelton landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Shelton is trying to control the action in half guard but Gracie Jr is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.

Gracie Jr looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Gracie Jr is looking to control Shelton's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Gracie Jr avoid being mounted?

That's one minute gone in the round.
Gracie Jr is not content to let Shelton control the position.
Shelton slows the pace down in half guard.
Shelton has been taking part in the yoga sessions down at Yaw-Yan Ardigma. Presumably he's going to look for a slick submission... Or maybe he's looking to avoid one.
Gracie Jr tries to roll over but Shelton keeps him under control.

Gracie Jr looking for submissions off his back.
Shelton content to control rather than advance.
Gracie Jr is trying to get back to full guard.

Gracie Jr actively working from the bottom here.
Shelton is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Shelton is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Shelton is nestled in close to Gracie Jr, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Shelton scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Gracie Jr on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Gracie Jr wants to improve his position but Shelton is controlling well.

Gracie Jr looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Shelton drops an elbow to the side of Gracie Jr's head.
Shelton is nestled in close to Gracie Jr, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Shelton drops an elbow to the side of Gracie Jr's head.

Gracie Jr is looking to sinch up a guillotine here but Shelton pulls his head out easily.
Gracie Jr has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Shelton is working away from the top position though.
Gracie Jr is looking for a sweep. Shelton is wise to his cunning plan and keeps the top position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Shelton scores with a couple of good hammerfists.
Shelton seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Nice strikes from Shelton there.
Gracie Jr regains full guard. Nicely done.
Shelton stays in close to Gracie Jr's body and controls the position.
Shelton keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Gracie Jr's head.
Shelton won't allow Gracie Jr to sweep him here.
Gracie Jr is trying to control the position from the bottom.

Gracie Jr has his foot on Shelton's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Shelton works his way back into a safe position though.
Both fighters are absolutely exhausted here.
Shelton controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.

Gracie Jr looking for a guillotine here but Shelton defends easily.
Shelton advances to half guard.

That's four minutes gone in the round.

Gracie Jr actively working from the bottom here.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Shelton lands a nice short elbow.
Shelton wants to lay and pray for a moment but Gracie Jr keeps working.
Shelton working Gracie Jr over with strikes.
Shelton seems very keen to just sit and control from half guard but Gracie Jr does not like that idea so much and is remaining active off his back.

Gracie Jr looking for submissions off his back.
Shelton lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Gracie Jr on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Gracie Jr is looking to control Shelton's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Gracie Jr avoid being mounted?
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Shelton is keeping good posture, landing some ground and pound.
Gracie Jr moves into full guard.
Shelton postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kobi Shelton 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!

Gracie Jr slips a jab from Shelton.
Gracie Jr feinted with a counter takedown.
Gracie Jr throws a body punch but Shelton moves out of range.
Shelton looks for a takedown but Gracie Jr sprawls well.
Gracie Jr misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Shelton.
Shelton swings for the body but Gracie Jr moves out of range.
Shelton keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Gracie Jr.
Shelton throws a nice hook to the body that draws an oooh from the crowd.
Shelton lands with a shot to the body.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Shelton looks to score with a jab to the body but Gracie Jr is just out of range.
Gracie Jr thows a left - swing and a miss!
Gracie Jr is the aggressor but that punch slipped nicely by Shelton.
Gracie Jr throws a body punch but Shelton moves out of range.
Gracie Jr misses with an uppercut.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Shelton throws a body punch but Gracie Jr moves out of range.

Shelton closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Gracie Jr quickly recovers to half guard.
Gracie Jr regains full guard. Nicely done.
Shelton 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.
Shelton stands up over Gracie Jr, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.
Shelton keeps in close for a moment and lands a decent shot to the side of Gracie Jr's head.
Gracie Jr trying to control the position.
Shelton postures up in Gracie Jr's guard and throws a big left but Gracie Jr blocks it.

Gracie Jr had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Shelton defends it easily.
Shelton scoring with punches to the head and body.
Gracie Jr not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Gracie Jr wants to sweep here but Shelton controlling him for the moment.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Shelton postures up.
Shelton stands up over Gracie Jr, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.

Gracie Jr is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Shelton is aware though and is defending well.
Shelton scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Shelton chips away with some ground and pound.
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!
Gracie Jr is trying to keep Shelton in close.
Shelton is in close to Gracie Jr's body, working some short punches and elbows.

Gracie Jr is looking for a triangle but Shelton pushes his legs off easily.
Shelton must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.
Shelton pushing down on Gracie Jr's thigh, trying to pass to half guard. He's managed it... Nice work.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Shelton lands a nice short elbow.
Gracie Jr tries to get to full guard but Shelton has control of the leg.
Shelton drops an elbow to the side of Gracie Jr's head.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Shelton lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Shelton lands a nice short elbow.
Shelton looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Gracie Jr with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Shelton slips a nice elbow through Gracie Jr's hands, connecting with Gracie Jr's forehead.
Gracie Jr regains full guard. Nicely done.
Shelton postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Shelton chips away with some ground and pound.
Shelton distracts Gracie Jr with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Gracie Jr is trying to control the position but Shelton postures up.
Gracie Jr looking for a sweep. Not yet Gracie Jr, not yet.
Shelton is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.
Gracie Jr can't keep his opponent in guard - Shelton advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Shelton working over Gracie Jr with some ground and pound. Gracie Jr looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Shelton perhaps working for something from half guard, or maybe not. It looks like he's just sitting there.
Shelton is trying to control the action in half guard but Gracie Jr is working away on the bottom, looking perhaps to get back to full guard.
Ground and pound from Shelton.
Gracie Jr regains full guard. Nicely done.
Gracie Jr is trying to keep Shelton in close.
Gracie Jr has momentary wrist control but Shelton slips an elbow through the middle.
Shelton controlling from the top position.

Gracie Jr working for a triangle but Shelton defends it easily.
Gracie Jr looking to control.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

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

Gracie Jr slips under a jab.
Gracie Jr misses the jab.
Shelton tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Shelton keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Gracie Jr.
Gracie Jr throws a big shot that misses.
Gracie Jr misses the jab.
Gracie Jr ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Shelton moves away.
Shelton throws an overhand right that lands on Gracie Jr's shoulder, as Gracie Jr tries to avoid the shot.
Gracie Jr uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Shelton.
Shelton throws a jab but it's blocked by Gracie Jr.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Shelton changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Gracie Jr looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
Shelton lands an elbow.
Gracie Jr is looking for a sweep.
Shelton landing with strikes to the head and body from side control.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Shelton working the ground and pound.
Shelton connects with a decent looking elbow from side control that caused Gracie Jr some visible discomfort.
Shelton scores with punches from side control.
Gracie Jr is looking for a sweep.
Shelton wants to control but Gracie Jr is keeping him busy.
Shelton is chipping away with strikes.
Shelton trying to control the position but Gracie Jr is working away.
Gracie Jr takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
Gracie Jr manages to work his way to half guard, despite Shelton's best efforts.
Gracie Jr is looking to improve his position.
It's got to the stage where if one of these guys blows hard enough, the other might fall over.
Shelton lands strikes from half guard.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Gracie Jr moves his hips nicely and gets into full guard.
Shelton trying to pass the guard but can't manage it just yet.
Gracie Jr looking to hit a scissor sweep but Shelton is one step ahead there.

Gracie Jr has his foot on Shelton's thigh. He's trying to push off and get in position for a triangle, I think. Shelton works his way back into a safe position though.
Shelton lands a couple of decent looking shots.

Shelton got a little sloppy there for a moment and Gracie Jr has worked his way into a loose triangle - can he finish it?! No, Shelton has managed to get both his arms back between Gracie Jr's legs - danger averted.
Shelton has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Gracie Jr can't keep his opponent in guard - Shelton advances to half guard, no doubt looking to mount.
Shelton seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Shelton drops an elbow to the side of Gracie Jr's head.

Gracie Jr looking to work for a kimura from the bottom.
Shelton working over Gracie Jr with some ground and pound. Gracie Jr looks like he wants out of this position, which is understandable.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Shelton drops an elbow to the side of Gracie Jr's head.
Shelton lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Gracie Jr is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Shelton looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Gracie Jr with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Gracie Jr is trying to control but can't.
Shelton is keen to just control but Gracie Jr is a slippery customer.
Gracie Jr is looking to control Shelton's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Gracie Jr avoid being mounted?
Gracie Jr is pressing down on Shelton's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Shelton working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Gracie Jr's head.
Gracie Jr looking for a sweep. Not yet Gracie Jr, not yet.
Shelton with a couple of shots to the head there. Not particularly brutal.
Gracie Jr can't do much from the bottom at the moment, as Shelton controls the pace.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Gracie Jr not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Gracie Jr has momentary wrist control but Shelton slips an elbow through the middle.

Gracie Jr is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Shelton defends well.
Shelton scoring with punches to the head and body.
Shelton is just sitting in guard, looking to avoid any submissions.
Gracie Jr is trying to control the position but Shelton postures up.
Shelton landing with the ground and pound.

Gracie Jr is throwing his legs up, looking for submissions. Shelton is aware though and is defending well.
Gracie Jr trying to control the position.
Shelton controls the pace of the fight for a moment.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Kobi Shelton dominated that fourth 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. This is the final round!

Gracie Jr swings wildly with a right hand that was never going to find it's target.
A jab from Shelton misses.
Gracie Jr throws a body punch but Shelton moves out of range.
Shelton looks to land a right hand but Gracie Jr moved out of range.
Shelton bobs and weaves well there to avoid the strikes.
Gracie Jr shoots in looking for a double leg takedown. Shelton defends it nicely.
Shelton uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Gracie Jr.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
A slow jab from Shelton misses its intended target.

Shelton fakes a strike and closes the distance, dragging Gracie Jr to the ground. Shelton is now in Gracie Jr's guard.
Gracie Jr is trying to control the position but Shelton postures up.
Shelton trying to control the position from guard on top but Gracie Jr is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Shelton stands up over Gracie Jr, holding his feet. He dives back in and lands a decent shot to the head.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Gracie Jr is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Shelton defends well.
Shelton content to strike from guard, landing some decent shots.
Shelton wants to control from the top but Gracie Jr keeps moving.
Gracie Jr is trying to keep Shelton in close.
Shelton postures up and lands some nice ground and pound.
Shelton distracts Gracie Jr with his right hand and drops a big elbow with his other arm.
Shelton postures up.
Gracie Jr is going to have to think about doing something other than just controlling because Shelton is managing to avoid having the position dictated to him.
Shelton scores with a decent looking elbow strike.
Gracie Jr looking to sweep here. No luck so far.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Shelton sneaks a leg through and gets to half guard. That was like a knife through butter how easily he passed Gracie Jr's guard.
Gracie Jr holds on for dear life, maintaining half guard 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.
Shelton slips a nice elbow through Gracie Jr's hands, connecting with Gracie Jr's forehead.
Shelton is nestled in close to Gracie Jr, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Shelton is looking to take a break and control but Gracie Jr is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Shelton is nestled in close to Gracie Jr, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Shelton is keen to just control but Gracie Jr is a slippery customer.

Gracie Jr looking for submissions off his back.

Gracie Jr looking for submissions from an awkward position here.
Shelton wants to lay and pray for a moment but Gracie Jr keeps working.
Gracie Jr has hold of Shelton's hands but Shelton slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Shelton scoring with strikes to the body and head.
Gracie Jr is trying to control but can't.
Shelton trying to control the action but Gracie Jr is working from the bottom.
Gracie Jr is looking to improve his position.
Gracie Jr regains full guard. Nicely done.
A big thud reverberates around the arena there as Shelton accidentally thumps the mat. Hopefully he's not broken his hand.
Gracie Jr has a closed guard, preventing anything of note from happening. Perhaps he's looking to stall.
Shelton postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.
Nick Gracie Jr has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Shelton working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Shelton postures up and lands a big shot to Gracie Jr's brow.
Shelton postures up and scores with a shot to the body and a follow up elbow to the head.

Gracie Jr has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Shelton can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.

Gracie Jr is active off his back here, looking for submissions.
Kobi Shelton is fighting for a decision - hopefully he's judged it right and he's actually winning the fight.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Shelton preventing the sweep.
Gracie Jr keeping moving, preventing Shelton from controlling successfully.

Gracie Jr looking for a guillotine here but Shelton defends easily.
Shelton pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Gracie Jr is keeping the position for now.
Shelton postures up and lands a big shot to Gracie Jr's brow.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Shelton showing good wrestling skills to control the position.
Shelton trying to control but Gracie Jr is working from the bottom.

And that's the end of the fight!
Kobi Shelton comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Shelton 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 5 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Peter Branson scores the fight 46:49
Judge Sandra Marshall scores the fight 45:50
Judge David Hoff scores the fight 46:50

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Kobi Shelton!
Kobi Shelton is the new bantamweight champion!
Kobi Shelton decided to go for the less than humble approach in his post fight interview, telling everyone how he is going to conquer the world. The crowd seemed to like it when really that sort of approach could have gone either way.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
41%

Main event

Coming up we have a light heavyweight MMA rules bout between Piet Smit (ranked 773 p4p, 122 weight class) and Anthony Romeo (ranked 1658 p4p, 249 weight class). Smit's ring entrance music is that housewives' favourite, Baby Got Back. Piet Smit has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Smit
vs
Romeo

188 cm
26
210 lbs
6 - 3 - 0

184 cm
25
214 lbs
4 - 1 - 0

BJJ Purple Belt
Basic striking
Cardio machine

Decent wrestler
Decent boxing
Heavy handed

BEAST

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the light heavyweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 6 - 3 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Piet Smit!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 4 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Anthony Romeo!
The judges for this bout are Daniel Franklin, Peter Branson and Michael Johnstone.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Romeo misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Smit.
Smit keeping his hands up high there, blocking the jab from Romeo.
Smit tries to close the distance and clinch up but Romeo swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Smit is looking to clinch.
Romeo looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Smit tries to close the distance and clinch but Romeo swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Romeo connects with a right hand. Smit shakes it off.
Romeo stuns Smit with a nice body shot, before stepping back out of range.
Smit moves in looking to clinch but Romeo pushes him off.
Smit moves in looking to clinch but Romeo pushes him off.

Smit closes the distance and presses his opponent up against the cage.
Romeo stalling against the cage.

Smit decides to pull guard.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Romeo decides he's had enough of playing guard and decides to stand. Come on Smit, up you get!
Smit wants to clinch.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Decent striking displayed by Romeo there.

It looks like Piet Smit has been cut.
Smit tries to close the distance and clinch but Romeo swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Smit is looking to clinch but Romeo is avoiding it.
Nice shot by Romeo.
Romeo fakes a jab and then connects with a hook.
Romeo throws an overhand right that lands on Smit's shoulder, as Smit tries to avoid the shot.
Romeo misses the body punch
and Smit counters with a good right hand that lands right on the jaw.
Smit shoots in for a takedown. "Ole!" shouts Romeo as he jumps to the side.
Romeo keeps the fight standing with a nice sprawl.
Romeo looked like he wanted to counter with a punch but didn't throw it.
Romeo swats away the attempt to clinch by Smit.
Romeo thuds a left hand into Smit's body.
Smit looks to clinch
and Romeo makes him pay by landing a nice hook to the body before moving out of range.
Romeo misses with a straight left.
Romeo has done a lot of speed work in the buildup to this fight.
Anthony Romeo is looking to keep the fight on the feet at all costs.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
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!
Smit tries to grapple but his opponent circles
and Romeo connects with a straight left hand counter down the middle.

The fight moves into the clinch position.
Smit holding his opponent close, against the cage.
Romeo is struggling to control the position.

Romeo breaks the clinch and we return to the middle of the mat.
Smit tries to close the distance and clinch up but Romeo swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Romeo doesn't fully commit to the body shot counter.
Smit keeping a good distance there, avoiding the body shot.
Romeo loads up on a big right hand but Smit slips the punch.
Romeo just manages to avoid a counter high kick fromSmit.
Romeo swings for the body but Smit moves out of range.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Romeo takes a swing at Smit's ribcage but misses.
Smit moves out of range of the strikes.
Smit tries to clinch but Romeo moves out of range.
Romeo misses with a straight right.
Romeo looks to land a left hand but Smit moved out of range nicely.
Romeo throws a hook to the body but it doesn't connect.
Smit uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Romeo.
Romeo tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Smit was well out of range. Poor timing from Romeo.
Smit tries to clinch up against the cage, rushing in to close the distance. Romeo manages to break the clinch and circles back to the middle of the mat.
Smit throws a wild body kick that Romeo sees coming a mile off.
Romeo throws a big shot that misses.
Romeo keeps the fight on the outside.
Romeo looks like he wants to counter punch here.
Romeo takes a swing at Smit's ribcage but misses.

Smit drives through and clinches with Romeo against the cage.
Romeo stalls.

Romeo breaks the clinch.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Smit is looking to clinch but Romeo is avoiding it.
Romeo ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Smit moves away.
Romeo fails to land with a series of punches.
Smit tries to clinch up.
Romeo's corner calls for a 1, 2 combination and Romeo duly obliges.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Romeo jabs. That one connects to the head of his opponent.
Romeo throws a body shot but no joy.

Smit clinches up against the cage.
Smit has a body lock and is looking for a takedown. Romeo is bouncing around trying to prevent the takedown and somehow he has indeed managed to stay on his feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Piet Smit. That's going to take a lot out of him.

Romeo breaks from the clinch.
Smit with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Romeo to score with a decent uppercut.

Piet Smit's cut is getting worse.
Romeo steps to the side to avoid the strikes from Smit.
Romeo swings away with a counter right hand but no contact made.
Smit ducks under a wild hook from Romeo.
Smit ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Romeo moves away.
Smit will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
A countering left hand to the body from Romeo misses.

Smit has closed the distance and engaged Romeo in a clinch.
And that’s the end of the round – the fighters go back to their corners.

Anthony Romeo dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Piet Smit's cut.
That's time! Back to the action!

Smit wants to clinch up but Romeo keeps it at a distance.
Smit looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.
Smit ducks down and throws a hook to the body but Romeo moves away.
Smit takes one on the chin but keeps coming.
Smit tries to close the distance and clinch up but Romeo swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Smit throws a jab but it's blocked by Romeo.
Romeo scores with a nice right hand.
Smit moves in looking to clinch but Romeo pushes him off.
Romeo takes a swing at Smit's ribcage but misses.
Romeo misses with a wild combination.
Smit was looking to counter that move with a punch but didn't quite pull the trigger.
Smit tries to clinch up.
Romeo throws the left hand but Smit avoids the punch easily.
Smit moves away from the strike by Romeo.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Romeo circles away from the clinch attempt
and Romeo counters with a nice uppercut.
Smit tries to clinch but Romeo moves out of range.

Smit instigates a clinch.
Smit fails to pull the fight into his guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Smit jumps guard but Romeo turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.
Smit tries to score a body lock takedown but Romeo shows good agility there to stay on his feet.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Piet Smit. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Romeo has Smit pushed against the cage.
Romeo lands on the inside with an uppercut.

Romeo breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.
Smit tries to close the distance and clinch but Romeo swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Romeo throws out a counter right but Smit avoids it with no problem.
Smit takes one on the button.

Smit clinches up against the cage.
A battle for position here, against the cage.

Romeo escapes the clinch and we're back to striking.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Romeo throws a hook but Smit blocks it.
Smit is looking to clinch but Romeo is avoiding it.
Romeo scores with a jab. Smit acknowledges it with a nod of the head.
Smit closes the distance looking to clinch
and Romeo counters with a lovely shot to the body.
Romeo keeps the fight on the outside.
Smit blocks a jab.
The crowd cheers as Romeo lands an impressive looking overhand right. Smit doesn't seem phased though.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Romeo connects with a body shot that sends Smit's belly button to the back.
Romeo has been the more effective fighter overall so far.
Romeo lunges at Smit with a hook that half lands and is half blocked by Smit's hand.

Smit is rocked!
Smit moves in looking to clinch but Romeo pushes him off.
A little jabbing left from Romeo on the counter but it doesn't find it's target.
Oh Smit is still all over the place! His legs are completely gone! Will he be able to recover?!!
Smit walks into a picture perfect straight right hand from Romeo! He's gone down face first to the canvas, unconscious before he even hit the floor! Ohhhh. My. Goodness! That boys and girls was a beautiful knockout! Give that man a biscuit!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:51 of round 2, we have a winner by way of KO (Punch). Anthony Romeo!
Anthony Romeo is the new light heavyweight champion!
In defeat, Piet Smit stepped up to the mic, saying 'Winning is not everything, it is the only thing!'.