VFC 13 Payback PBP Commentary

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a bantamweight MMA rules bout between Aiko Kinjo (ranked 25353 p4p, 25395 weight class) and Fritz Decom (ranked 350 p4p, 357 weight class). Fritz Decom has the eye of the tiger tonight.

Kinjo
vs
Decom

150 cm
25
143
0 - 2 - 0

179 cm
21
130
0 - 2 - 0

Good wrestling
Brawler
Granite chin

BJJ White Belt
Excellent boxer
Tends to cut

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 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Aiko Kinjo!
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, Fritz Decom!
The judges for this bout are Dirk Anderson, Sandra Marshall and Bart Greer.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Kinjo throws a right and a left that Decom avoids nicely.
Decom tries to close the distance and clinch but Kinjo swats him to one side with an open hand palm strike and circles away.
Decom shuffles to his left behind two crisp jabs. Kinjo eats them both and turns towards Decom to reposition himself and eats a stinging right hand-left hook combo.
Kinjo throws a lazy right hand but Decom sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.
Decom scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
Kinjo throws a series of punches but Decom avoids them all with ease.
Decom lands a jab followed by a nice looking cross.
Decom looks to land a combination but Kinjo avoids it well.
Decom scores to the head and body with a nice combination!
Decom is a painfully thin specimen of a man. You do wonder whether a good body kick would snap him clean in two.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Decom ducks under a wild hook from Kinjo.
Decom falls off balance throwing a combination
and Kinjo counters with a series of strikes that practically lifts Decom off his feet! He tumbles backwards, his head bouncing off the mat - Kinjo follows up with more strikes before the ref can step in but Decom was out before he hit the floor.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:32 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Strikes). Aiko Kinjo!

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 heavyweight MMA rules bout between Yovko Yovkov (ranked 6815 p4p, 25388 weight class) and Adracio Zalasat (ranked 715 p4p, 745 weight class). Both fighter's entrance songs getting the crowd jumping here.

Yovkov
vs
Zalasat

205 cm
18
270
0 - 2 - 0

209 cm
18
285
0 - 2 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid boxing
Good in bed

BJJ White Belt
Brawler
Solid 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 0 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Yovko Yovkov!
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, Adracio Zalasat!
The judges for this bout are Sandra Marshall, Bart Greer and David Hoff.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Danga de danga de dang - Yovkov scores with a four punch combination!
Zalasat fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Yovkov avoids it really well and circles away.
Yovkov shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Zalasat sprawls well. Zalasat wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Yovkov gets slowly back to his feet.
Zalasat tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Yovkov swivels and escapes.
Yovkov shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Zalasat but Zalasat pushes him off and we're back to square one.
Yovkov throws out a powerful jab.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Zalasat has managed to clinch.

Yovkov manages to pull guard.
Zalasat postures up in Yovkov's guard and throws a big left but Yovkov blocks it.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Yovkov not looking particularly offensive just at the moment.
Zalasat must be cautious of submissions here, given that his opponent has the superior Jiu Jitsu.

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

Zalasat stands and steps away. Yovkov gets to his feet too and we're back to the striking game.
Yovkov tries to close the distance and clinch up but Zalasat swats him away and circles back towards the center.
Nice takedown defense from Yovkov. No joy for Zalasat on that attempt.
Yovkov throws a big counter combination but Zalasat scrambles out of danger and avoids any damage.
Yovko Yovkov has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Adracio Zalasat.
Zalasat misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Yovkov.
Zalasat shoots in but Yovkov avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Yovkov changes levels looking for a counter takedown but doesn't commit.
Sloppy strikes from Yovkov. Those never looked like landing.
Yovkov looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.
Yovkov fails with the takedown.

Zalasat forces Yovkov back against the cage and clinches.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Yovkov tries to pull guard but Zalasat won't allow it.
Yovkov tries to pull guard but Zalasat forces him back to his feet, against the cage.
Yovkov tries to take the fight to the ground by pulling guard but can't manage it.

Zalasat pushes off and circles away, back to the middle of the mat.
Zalasat lands a right hook to the body.
Zalasat with a lazy takedown attempt

and Yovkov counters by clinching up.

Zalasat breaks the clinch and we're back to striking at distance.

Zalasat closes the distance and gets a trip takedown into side control. Yovkov quickly recovers to half guard.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Zalasat is controlling the pace.
Yovkov tries to kick Zalasat off but Zalasat keeps his base steady and stays in half guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Yovkov holds on for dear life, maintaining half guard for now.
Yovkov is trying to stand up here but Zalasat is controlling him well.
Still in half guard, Zalasat seems content to control.
Yovkov trying to hold on to Zalasat's head to control him but Zalasat postures up.

Zalasat is looking for a kimura but Yovkov is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Zalasat to get the leverage.
Yovkov wants to get back to full guard.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Zalasat dives in for a single leg takedown but Yovkov sprawls and the fighters end up clinched against the cage.
Zalasat ducks down and throws a hook to the body.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Yovkov fails with a takedown attempt from distance.
Yovkov slaps away a takedown attempt from Zalasat, before circling back to the center of the mat.
Yovkov's corner calls for a 1, 2 combination and Yovkov duly obliges.
Zalasat has worked on his takedown defense in the runup to this fight and it is paying off so far.
Yovkov tries to clinch but Zalasat is having none of it.
Zalasat comes forward and lands a shot to the body, then darts back out of range.
A telegraphed takedown attempt from Zalasat is defended easily by Yovkov.
Yovkov is looking to counter punch.
Yovkov throws a body shot but no joy.
Zalasat tries to counter by closing the distance.

Zalasat clinches with his opponent.

Zalasat manages to pull guard.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

A close round but Adracio Zalasat will probably get the nod.
That's time! Yovkov's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight.

Zalasat takes the fight into the clinch.

Yovkov successfully pulls guard.
Zalasat really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Yovkov. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Zalasat is frustrating his opponent with some stalling tactics from top position.

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

Yovkov trying to control the action but Zalasat is working from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Zalasat wants to control but Yovkov postures up.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Yovkov tries for a kimura. Not really close to a finish though.
Zalasat can't do much from the bottom here.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Zalasat is looking for a sweep.
Yovkov wants to control for a moment but Zalasat uses the opportunity to move back to half guard.
Zalasat is looking to control Yovkov's leg but it's slowly edging free. Can Zalasat avoid being mounted?

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.
Zalasat might have to switch it up a bit here because his efforts to control Yovkov haven't been going to plan, at least at the current moment in time.
Zalasat wants to get back to full guard.

Zalasat makes some distance and scrambles quickly back to his feet. Nice work!
Nice takedown defense from Yovkov. No joy for Zalasat on that attempt.
The fight stays on the outside here - Yovkov looks like he's thinking about clinching though.
Zalasat displays good takedown defense there as he swats away a double leg from Yovkov.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Zalasat dodges the punch combination from Yovkov.
Yovko Yovkov is winning the standup battle so far.
Yovkov shoots in but Zalasat avoids the takedown attempt easily.
Yovkov darts in looking for a takedown but Zalasat gets double underhooks and turns Yovkov into the cage.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Yovko Yovkov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Yovkov tries to circle away but Zalasat has him pinned against the cage.

Zalasat drags the fight down to the ground.
Yovkov trying to control but Zalasat is working from the bottom.
Zalasat is trying to stand up but he's not managed so far.
Zalasat managing to control the position.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Zalasat's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.

Yovkov gets to his feet - Zalasat follows without any prompting.
Yovkov scores with a reasonable looking shot to the body. Zalasat doesn't seem bothered though.
Zalasat dives in and grabs Yovkov's left leg, looking for a takedown. Yovkov pushes down on Zalasat's head and hops out.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!

Zalasat closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Yovkov is working for an escape here. He's hooked one of Zalasat's legs and he's managed to sneak out and take Zalasat's back!
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Yovkov missing with punches from the back.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

That was a close second round but I would say that Yovko Yovkov will probably get the nod.
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!

Yovkov closes this distance looking for a takedown but Zalasat circles away.
Zalasat tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Zalasat will have to do better than that with his takedown attempts.
Yovko Yovkov is looking to throw some combinations by the looks of things.
Yovkov falls off balance throwing a combination

and Zalasat counters by clinching up.

Zalasat jumps guard.
Zalasat has a butterfly guard looking to sweep but Yovkov has passed into side control.
I wouldn't like to be where Zalasat is right now.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Zalasat is trying to stand back up. He's worked his way up against the cage but Yovkov has just dragged him back down to the mat.
Yovkov in the domination position with Zalasat hanging on.
Adracio Zalasat has got the better of the ground game so far.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Yovkov wants to control but Zalasat is keeping him busy.
Yovkov scoring with punches from side control.
Yovkov throws an elbow but Zalasat slips to the side and avoids it well.
Yovkov tries to land with some ground and pound but misses.
Yovkov is trying to ground and pound but Zalasat uses the momentary lack of control by Yovkov to regain half guard.
Yovkov stops Zalasat from getting back to his feet.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Zalasat wants to control but Yovkov is keeping busy and won't allow it.
Zalasat keeping hold of Yovkov's head, controlling as best he can.
The fighters are battling for position here. Zalasat manages to regain full guard. Nice work.
Yovkov looking to sit in guard and control but Zalasat gets the butterfly guard and sweeps. He's now in the guard on the top.

Zalasat sitting in guard here, content to control.
Zalasat is looking to work some ground and pound but Yovkov has wrist control.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Zalasat trying to stand up but can't free himself from Yovkov's guard.
Zalasat stops Yovkov from standing up.

The referee has motioned to the fighters to stand back up.
Yovkov fails to land the takedown.
Yovkov has a takedown stuffed.
That's three failed takedown attempts in the round for Yovko Yovkov. That's going to take a lot out of him.
Zalasat shoots in for a double leg but Yovkov sprawls well. That's going to sap some energy.

Zalasat takes the fight into the clinch.

Zalasat manages to break the clinch.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Zalasat shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Yovkov pinned against the cage. Yovkov gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
No luck for Yovkov with that takedown attempt.

Zalasat has managed to clinch.
Zalasat tries for a takedown but Yovkov manages to get underhooks.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Zalasat fails to pull the fight into his guard.
Zalasat jumps guard but Yovkov turns him against the cage and keeps the fight standing.
Yovkov drops down looking for an ankle pick but Zalasat pulls his leg out and moves away.

And that's the end of the fight!
Adracio Zalasat comfortably won the final round on my scorecard.
I think Zalasat has won this one but let's see whether the judges agree with me. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Sandra Marshall scores the fight 28:29
Judge Bart Greer scores the fight 29:29
Judge David Hoff scores the fight 28:29

In favor of your winner, by majority decision... Adracio Zalasat!
An out of breath Adracio Zalasat 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
33%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between Kip Thorne (ranked 4719 p4p, 25406 weight class) and Mr Bean (ranked 423 p4p, 523 weight class). Mr Bean has the power to score a knockout today if he connects clean with Kip Thorne's chin.

Thorne
vs
Bean

172 cm
25
148
0 - 0 - 0

168 cm
25
150
0 - 2 - 0

Decent wrestler
Dangerous knees
Prefers standup

BJJ White Belt
Good kicks
Granite chin

Monkey Business

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 0 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Kip Thorne!
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, Mr Bean!
The judges for this bout are Michael Johnstone, Peter Branson and Winston Alpacca.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Thorne misses with an uppercut
and Bean counters with a crisp hook to the side of the head.
Thorne throws a monster uppercut resembling something out of street fighter but it doesn't land.
Thorne motions for Bean to come forward. Thorne throws a leg kick but it misses it's target.
Thorne throws out a loose jab but Bean uses good head movement to avoid it.
Thorne fakes a jab and throws a low kick but Bean checks it well.
Bean connects with a high kick.
Bean lands a glancing blow to the side of Thorne's head.
Thorne misses with a body shot. Nice footwork from Bean.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Thorne takes a shot to the body in his stride.
Thorne throws a jab but it's blocked by Bean.
Bean misses with a head kick.
Bean looks to score with a combo but nothing lands.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Bean ducks under a wild hook from Thorne.
Bean now looks to counter with a shot at the body.

Thorne moves into the clinch successfully.
Thorne landing knees to the body.
Thorne lands an elbow inside that Bean shrugs off.
Thorne lands a nice elbow from the clinch.
Bean working hard to break the clinch.
Thorne lands an elbow just above Bean 's eye.

It looks like Mr Bean has been cut.
Bean takes an elbow to the temple.
Thorne blocks a knee to the body. He'll have a nicely bruised forearm in the morning.
With the two fighters working up against the cage, Thorne just misses with a elbow thrown towards Bean's brow.
Thorne landing knees to the head.
Bean avoiding damage as Thorne throws knees to the body.
Bean takes an elbow to the temple.
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!
Thorne connects with a knee to the head.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Bean on the defensive, avoiding the knees to the body.
Bean avoiding damage as Thorne throws knees to the body.
Thorne lands a nice elbow.
Thorne lands a knee to the head there! That was nasty!
Thorne lands a damaging elbow.
Bean can't break the clinch.
Thorne keeps the fight in the clinch, despite Bean's efforts to push away.
Bean wants to break the clinch but can't.
Thorne comes over the top with an elbow. That landed flush.
Knees in the clinch landing for Thorne.
Thorne with a knee to the head.
Bean struggles to land a body shot inside as Thorne controls his hands.
Thorne lands a nice knee to the body.
Bean looks winded!
Thorne lands an elbow inside that Bean shrugs off.
Thorne lands a nice elbow.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Bean tries to break the clinch but Thorne is controlling the position.
Bean looks to throw an elbow but misses.
Bean misses with an elbow over the top.
Bean looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
A nice glancing elbow lands by Thorne.
Nice elbow from Thorne.
Thorne lands a nice knee to the body.
Thorne with the Thai clinch, lands a knee to the head.
Thorne connects with a nasty looking knee right to Bean's face.

That has opened up Mr Bean's cut even more.
Thorne is trying to wear down his opponent with knees to the body.
Thorne lands a knee to the head there! That was nasty!
Thorne putting his Muay Thai to good use. He has Bean in a tight clinch and is doing some damage with knees to the body.
The crowd cheering loudly, showing their appreciation for the quality fight we're seeing here.
Thorne connects with a nasty looking knee right to Bean's face.
Thorne with the Thai clinch, lands a knee to the head.
Thorne lands a glancing elbow in the clinch.
Thorne lands a glancing elbow in the clinch.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Thorne landing knees to the body.
An uppercut on the inside fails to land for Bean.
A nice glancing elbow lands by Thorne.
Bean takes an elbow to the forehead.
Thorne landing knees to the head.
Thorne lands an elbow just above Bean 's eye.
Thorne comes over the top with an elbow. That landed flush.

Bean is rocked!
Bean takes an elbow to the forehead.
Bean is still on wobbly legs! Can Thorne finish him?
Thorne crunches a lovely knee into Bean's ribcage.
Thorne utilising his Muay Thai to score with a knee to the body.
Bean seems to have recovered his senses.
Thorne lands a glancing elbow in the clinch.
The crowd applaud the fighters' efforts here as the round comes to an end.
Thorne is trying to wear down his opponent with knees to the body.
Thorne landing knees to the body.
Thorne lands a damaging elbow.

The cut above Mr Bean's eye is starting to cause him problems now.
Bean takes an elbow to the temple.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Kip Thorne dominated that round.
The cut man is working on Mr Bean's cut.
The fighters get back to their feet, the hooter sounds and we're back to the action!

Thorne clinches.
Bean is trying to work out of this bad position, with his back against the cage.
Bean avoiding damage as Thorne throws knees to the body.
Bean tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Thorne avoids it.
Bean with the Thai clinch. He's looking to land a big knee but he's not managed it this time.
Thorne lands a knee to the body.
With the fighters up against the cage, Bean throws an elbow but misses.
Thorne lands a nice elbow.
Thorne misses with a knee to the head.
Thorne creates a bit of space for himself and sneaks an elbow through Bean's defenses.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Bean is looking to score with knees to the body. Maybe he'll change it up and go body then head. Thorne is defending well for now.
Thorne landing knees to the head.
Thorne lands an elbow just above Bean 's eye.
Thorne utilising his Muay Thai to score with a knee to the body.
Bean is breathing heavily.
Fantastic stuff here - a very entertaining period of action, which has drawn cheers from the crowd.
Good anti-grappling being displayed by Thorne as Bean tries to tie him up.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Thorne lands an elbow just above Bean 's eye.
Bean wants to break the clinch but can't.
Thorne lands a knee to the head.
A nice glancing elbow lands by Thorne.
A knee to the head by Thorne.
Thorne lands a damaging elbow.

Mr Bean's cut is absolute horrible now. This looks like something out of a horror film with blood covering both fighters.
Thorne lands a knee to the head.
Bean is trying to slow down the pace of the fight but Thorne is keeping busy.
Thorne lands a nice knee to the body.
Thorne lands a good knee to the midsection. Bean won't want to take too many of those.
Thorne lands a nice elbow.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Bean takes an elbow to the temple.
Thorne gets an overhook and lands an elbow to the side of the head.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Thorne lands a damaging elbow.
Thorne landing knees to the head.

The referee calls the doctor in to look at Mr Bean's cut. Oh no, the doctor has called an end to the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:19 of round 2, we have a winner by way of TKO (Cut). Kip Thorne!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
60%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a middleweight MMA rules bout between Frank Castle (ranked 4187 p4p, 6664 weight class) and Sean Murphy (ranked 533 p4p, 724 weight class). The crowd giving both fighters a great reception on their way into the arena. That's good to see.

Castle
vs
Murphy

180 cm
25
180
1 - 2 - 0

187 cm
25
194
0 - 2 - 0

Decent wrestler
Good knees
Granite chin

BJJ White Belt
Excellent MT
Prefers standup

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 - 2 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Frank Castle!
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, Sean Murphy!
The judges for this bout are Bart Greer, Winston Alpacca and Santiago Holmes.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Castle lands a nice hook to Murphy's body. Murphy takes it in his stride and looks to land his own strikes.
Murphy closes the distance and takes a jab right on the nose as he does so.
Murphy displays some good footwork, moving neatly out of range as Castle throws out the jab.
Castle slips under a jab from Murphy.
Murphy throws out a loose jab but Castle uses good head movement to avoid it.
Castle jabbing away but nothing is landing.
Murphy uses good head movement to avoid the hook from Castle.
Murphy only half commits to the counter leg kick.
Castle just misses with a punch to the body.
Murphy connects nicely with a jab. Noted by the judges no doubt.
Castle connects with a body shot that sends Murphy's belly button to the back.
Castle tries to land with a swinging hook to the body but Murphy was well out of range. Poor timing from Castle.
Murphy looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
Murphy slips a jab from Castle.
Castle misses with a hook.
Murphy throws a nice looking combination but Castle bobs and weaves to avoid any damage.
Castle throwing a counter right hand but Murphy manages to avoid it.
Murphy connects with a crisp jab.
Wooooo! Give it up for these two warriors! They are putting on a show!
Castle jabs Murphy right on the nose. Murphy blinks but takes it well.
Castle works Murphy's body with a nice hook.
A looping hook to the body misses from Castle. Murphy does a little dance to reset his feet.
Castle throws a hard body shot but it just misses.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Castle throws a lazy right hand but Murphy sees it coming a mile off and sidesteps it easily.

Castle instigates a clinch.
Murphy working aggressively here.
Murphy avoiding damage as Castle throws knees to the body.
Castle tries a shoulder strike but it doesn't do any damage.
Murphy pushes off and fires off an elbow that misses, before clinching up again, against the cage.
Castle looking to throw knees to the head but Murphy is blocking nicely.
Castle tries to land a knee to the body but he is off balance and Murphy avoids it.
Castle unloads a knee to the mid-section. Murphy lets out a prehistoric sounding urrrrgh.
Castle gets through Murphy's defenses to land a nice punch to the side of the head.
Castle tries to land a knee to the head but misses.
Murphy misses with a hook from the clinch.
Castle tries a knee to the head but Murphy blocks it.
Castle lands an uppercut.
Still in the clinch, Castle scores with a nice short uppercut.
Castle stalling the fight.
Murphy lands with a left to the head.
We've seen a great period of action over the last minute or so - credit to both fighters for going all out!
Knees in the clinch landing for Castle.
A left hand lands to the body for Castle.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Murphy has a couple of punches blocked by Castle.
Knees to the body from Castle.
Murphy looks winded!
Murphy takes a knee to the side of the body.
Castle misses the knee to the body. Nice hip positioning from Murphy.
Murphy letting Castle take a breather here.
Castle connects with a nasty looking knee right to Murphy's face.
Castle unloads a knee to the mid-section.
Castle lands a right hand.
Castle looks to be in better condition than last time we saw him fight. Obviously he's been working hard on his cardio.
Castle scores with a knee to the head.

Murphy is rocked!
Castle creates a bit of space for himself and rocks Murphy with a big uppercut! Murphy tries to clinch up but Castle pushes him back against the cage and lands another monster strike that crumples Murphy to the mat! Murphy covers up and Castle unloads with more strikes until the referee steps in to end the bout!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 2:43 of round 1, we have a winner by way of TKO (Punches). Frank Castle!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
65%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a featherweight MMA rules bout between James Jury (ranked 3168 p4p, 3877 weight class) and Mike Schultz (ranked 327 p4p, 372 weight class). Over to our ring announcer for the fighter introductions!

Jury
vs
Schultz

174 cm
25
154
1 - 0 - 0

164 cm
25
150
1 - 1 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Counter fighter
KO power

Good wrestler
Brawler
Solid chin

Hells Balls Clothing

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 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, James Jury!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Mike Schultz!
The judges for this bout are Michael Johnstone, Sandra Marshall and Peter Branson.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Schultz has his takedown stuffed
and Jury counters with a one-two to the body.
No luck with that takedown attempt from Schultz.
Schultz slips a jab and a cross from Jury.
Schultz tries to shoot in for a takedown. He's got hold of a leg but Jury swivels and escapes.
James Jury has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Mike Schultz.

Schultz closes the distance and after a bit of a stuggle, scores a takedown into Jury's guard.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Schultz won't allow Jury to get back to his feet.
Schultz lands a couple of decent looking shots.
Schultz controlling from the top position.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Jury is on top in guard.

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

That's one minute gone in the round.
Schultz managing to control the position.

Schultz has a loose triangle. He'll be looking to tighten that up but Jury can see exactly what he's planning and manages to posture up and free himself.
We get told so often about how wrestlers don't like to be on their backs. Let's see if Schultz can do anything to dispel that myth.
Schultz is avoiding any damage by keeping wrist control.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
A lull in the action here being met with boos from the crowd.
Jury content to stall in guard here.
Jury trying to control the position from guard on top but Schultz is wriggling around, looking for whatever he can.
Schultz tries to land a sweep but no joy.
Schultz looking to control the pace of the fight rather than finish it.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Schultz's corner are shouting for him to control the position and he seems happy to oblige.
There's a bit of a scramble here and now Schultz is on top in guard.

Jury is trying to control the position from the bottom.
Schultz 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.

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.
Schultz pressing down on his opponent's thigh, looking to pass guard. Jury is keeping the position for now.
Schultz's corner is telling him to maintain position.

The ref stands the fighters back up due to a lack of activity.
Schultz looks for a takedown here. Will he get it? Jury is fending him off so far but Schultz persists. Nope, Jury circles away and we're back to standing.
A clash of legs there as Schultz blocks the low kick.
Jury looks frustrated there after his takedown attempt is stuffed easily.
Schultz tries a counter takedown but it's more of a dummy move, and he uses it to push himself away.
Schultz with a poor takedown
and Jury counters with a lovely straight right hand!
Horrible takedown attempt by Schultz or perhaps it was just good defense by Jury, which made it look bad.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Jury shoots in for a takedown but doesn't get it.
Schultz shoots in and drives through. Jury sprawls well.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

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

A telegraphed takedown attempt from Schultz is defended easily by Jury.
Jury goes to the watering hole and comes back with a big thumbs up from the judges as he scores a three punch combo.
Jury connects with a solid leg kick.
Jury tries to score a power double leg takedown but Schultz sees that one coming and sprawls well. That will dishearten Jury somewhat.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.

Jury closes the distance and clinches up, looking for a takedown. He shifts his weight and gets a nice trip into half guard.
Schultz makes his way to full guard. A much better position for Schultz.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Schultz looking to hit a scissor sweep but Jury is one step ahead there.
Schultz has his hands on Jury's head, controlling the position.
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.
Schultz keeping moving, preventing Jury from controlling successfully.

Jury stands up from Schultz's guard - Jury perhaps looking for a knockout.

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.

Jury takes the fight into the clinch.
Schultz struggles to land a body shot inside as Jury controls his hands.
Schultz prevents a body shot from Jury.
Schultz is looking for a takedown up against the cage. Jury gets underhooks though and prevents the takedown attempt.

Jury's corner calls for him to break the clinch, which he does.

Schultz tries to keep at a distance but Jury has taken the fight into the clinch.
Jury is trying to push Schultz away but Schultz has him pressed against the cage, so he's going nowhere.

That's three minutes gone in the round.

Jury breaks the clinch.
Schultz fails to land the takedown.
James Jury has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Mike Schultz.
Jury shoots in looking for a takedown. Schultz tries to sprawl out of it but Jury keeps driving through. The fighters are pinned against the cage. Schultz manages to get underhooks and after a bit of a struggle, circles away and we're back to standing.
Schultz shoots in with a takedown attempt and he has Jury pinned against the cage. Jury gets the underhooks and manages to circle away.
Mike Schultz seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Schultz shoots and misses
and Jury counters with a left and a right that stings Schultz.
Schultz shoots in for a takedown. He's persisting with it as Jury sprawls well. Jury wins this battle and keeps the fight standing. Schultz gets slowly back to his feet.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Schultz shoots for a double leg takedown but Jury sprawls well. He's pushed Schultz's face into the mat and manages to get back to his feet relatively easily.

Schultz tries to sprawl but Jury drives through with a takedown into half guard.
Schultz preventing any damage for now, controlling his opponent's head.
Jury trying to control from Schultz's half guard. Schultz has other ideas though and has regained full guard.
Jury trying to control but Schultz is working from the bottom.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

James Jury dominated that second round.
That's time! Jury's corner gives him a slap on the ass as he gets ready to fight. This is the final round!

Schultz fakes high and shoots in for a takedown but Jury avoids it really well and circles away.
Jury appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
Schultz gets his takedown attempt stuffed easily
and Jury counters with a head kick. That will keep Schultz thinking before he tries any more sloppy attacks!
Jury misses with a half-hearted attempt at a head kick.
Jury shoots in and drives through. Schultz sprawls well.
A really sloppy takedown attempt there from Schultz.
James Jury has stuffed three takedown attempts in the round now. That's going to take a lot out of Mike Schultz.
Schultz dives in and grabs Jury's left leg, looking for a takedown. Jury pushes down on Schultz's head and hops out.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Schultz dives in and grabs Jury's left leg, looking for a takedown. Jury pushes down on Schultz's head and hops out.
Jury fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Schultz.

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

Schultz breaks from the clinch.

That's one minute gone in the round.
A chopping leg kick lands by Jury.
Schultz shoots in for a takedown - he's clinched up with Jury but Jury pushes him off and we're back to square one.

Schultz shoots in for a takedown! He's got it and he's managed to land in side control! That's better than Schultz was expecting from the takedown attempt, I'm sure!
James Jury overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Schultz creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Jury sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Schultz in side control, trying to ground and pound but not landing this time.
Schultz is working Jury over with some ground and pound from side control.
Jury struggling a bit here.
Schultz is chipping away with strikes.
Mike Schultz has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Jury wants to control but Schultz postures up.
Jury tries to improve position but can't.
Schultz looks up at the clock and then as Jury takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Schultz smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
Both fighters are breathing heavily.
Schultz happy to just control the position for now.
Schultz lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Jury down.
Schultz is pausing for a moment. What's he doing? It looks like he's clearing his nose. Oh dude! He's shot a load of snot all down Jury's shoulder. That is not cool.
Schultz in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Schultz lands a knee to the body and follows it up with some ground and pound to the head. That will wear Jury down.
Jury is being controlled here.
Schultz sitting in side control, looking to soften his opponent up with elbows and hammerfists but Jury is avoiding damage well and looking to escape the position.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Schultz is staying tight to Jury's torso, preventing him from escaping.
Schultz in side control lands a nice looking series of punches and elbows.
Schultz controls the position from side control.
Jury is looking for a sweep.
Schultz remains in side control and seems content to stay there. It's a versatile position from which he can work both strikes and submissions, whilst maintaining that control, so maybe he'll sit here for a while.

The referee has stepped in and called for a break in the action. We'll restart on the feet.
Jury stuffs the takedown.
Jury fails with an attempt to clinch.
Schultz throws out a counter right but Jury avoids it with no problem.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
The crowd are starting to boo a lack of action.
Schultz goes for a double leg but Jury avoids the attempt and the two fighters end up clinched against the cage as Jury continues to drive forward.
Jury misses with a low kick as Schultz jumps back.
Schultz doesn't succeed with the takedown
and Jury counters with a one-two to the body.

Schultz shoots in looking for a single leg takedown. Jury is trying to defend but Schultz finishes it well and ends up in half guard. Let's see if he can advance position further.
Jury avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Schultz.
Jury won't allow Schultz to pass to mount.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Schultz looks towards his corner to check for any instructions. The corner give him nothing to work with, so he cracks Jury with a short hammerfist. I guess that's as good as any advice he could get in this position.
Jury gets back to full guard.
James Jury is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.
Schultz lands a couple of decent looking shots.

And that's the end of the fight!
That was a close round. You could make an argument for either fighter but I would give it to James Jury.
Well I reckon that's a shut out for Jury, winning every round. Will the judges agree? They are the ones who matter, even if they are often depressingly incompetent. Over to the ring announcer for the scorecards.

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Michael Johnstone scores the fight 30:27
Judge Sandra Marshall scores the fight 30:27
Judge Peter Branson scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... James Jury!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
31%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a heavyweight MMA rules bout between Mark Cormier (ranked 5045 p4p, 2607 weight class) and Chuck Gracie (ranked 590 p4p, 337 weight class). These two fighters really are very evenly matched on the feet - it will be fascinating to see who can assert themselves in that aspect of the fight.

Cormier
vs
Gracie

200 cm
25
265
1 - 1 - 0

195 cm
25
270
1 - 1 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid boxing
Granite chin

Good takedowns
Decent boxing
Determined

Hells Balls Clothing
Battle Hecs

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 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Mark Cormier!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Chuck Gracie!
The judges for this bout are Michael Johnstone, Santiago Holmes and Daniel Franklin.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Gracie has a takedown stuffed.

Cormier bobs and weaves into range and then changes levels and scores with a nice takedown into side control.
Gracie takes a couple of big shots there - the referee warns him that he has to defend himself better.
Cormier lands a decent elbow from side control.
Gracie is trying to control Cormier's posture but Cormier avoids it.
Gracie is trying to get back to half guard.
Gracie avoids any damage from the ground and pound of Cormier.
Cormier works a knee to the body and follows up with a nice elbow to the head.
Gracie is looking to regain half guard here but Cormier keeps moving and retains side control.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Cormier in side control lands a decent elbow.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Cormier lands an elbow.
Gracie is looking to regain half guard here but Cormier keeps moving and retains side control.
Gracie keeps trying to improve his position.
Cormier is looking to take a break and control but Gracie is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
Gracie manages to get one leg in to regain half guard.
Cormier wants to pass to mount but Gracie is defending the position.
Gracie trying to control but Cormier postures up.

That's two minutes gone in the round.

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

Gracie looking for submissions off his back.
Gracie 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.
Gracie misses with some strikes from the bottom.
Cormier is trying to control. Gracie wants to improve his position but can't escape this time.
Gracie wants to control but Cormier is keeping busy.
Gracie has hold of Cormier's hands but Cormier slips his arm to the side and lands an elbow.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Cormier thumps the canvas. Not on purpose obviously - he just missed Gracie's head.
Cormier prevents Gracie from improving his position.
Gracie missing with punches from the bottom.
Gracie has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Cormier is working away from the top position though.
Cormier wants to control but Gracie is keeping him busy.
Ground and pound from Cormier.
Gracie tries to roll over but Cormier keeps him under control.
Gracie is trying to maintain the position but Cormier is very close to passing his half guard.

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.
Gracie wants to improve his position but Cormier is controlling well.

Cormier is looking for a kimura but Gracie is holding onto that half guard position, so it's hard for Cormier to get the leverage.
Gracie is looking to regain full guard. Not this time though.
Gracie wants to control but Cormier is keeping busy.
Cormier misses with a head shot. Gracie uses the momentum to regain guard.
Cormier knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Gracie on the ground.

Gracie had isolated an arm as going for a kimura. Cormier defends it easily.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Gracie looking to control.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Mark Cormier dominated that round.
That's the end of the interval. I'm sure that seemed a lot quicker than a minute for our two fighters! Back to the action.

Gracie changes levels and looks for a double leg takedown. Cormier tries to avoid it but Gracie manages to keep hold of a leg and drag Cormier to the ground. Cormier escapes though and pops straight back up to his feet.
Nice sprawl there from Cormier as Gracie shoots in.

Gracie gets caught napping as Cormier dives in and scores a takedown. Gracie manages to retain guard.

Gracie throws his legs up looking to secure a triangle. Oh, that looks pretty tight, I gotta say! Cormier escapes and throws Gracie's legs to the side, diving into side control!

Cormier looking for an arm triangle but it's way too loose to do anything.
Gracie wants to control but Cormier postures up.
Mark Cormier overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Cormier scoring with punches and elbows.
Gracie takes an elbow right on the bridge of the nose and winces in pain.
Cormier is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Gracie can do to turn this around?
Cormier is working Gracie over with some ground and pound from side control.

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

That's one minute gone in the round.
You can see the frustration on Gracie's face, being in this tough position on the bottom.
Gracie is sneaking out the side here. He's bucked Cormier off and has taken his back!

Gracie is working on the RNC. He looks like he's got it but Cormier won't tap... Oh, he's out! The ref rips Gracie off his unconscious opponent!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:44 of round 2, we have a winner by way of Submission (RNC). Chuck Gracie!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
34%

Undercard bout

Coming up we have a bantamweight MMA rules bout between Colby Brown (ranked 2601 p4p, 4058 weight class) and Aiden Murphy (ranked 167 p4p, 238 weight class). Colby Brown has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Brown
vs
Murphy

150 cm
25
138
1 - 0 - 0

150 cm
25
130
1 - 1 - 0

Good wrestling
Brawler
Very strong

Good wrestler
Counter fighter
Tends to cut

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 1 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Colby Brown!
And introducing the fighter to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Aiden Murphy!
The judges for this bout are David Hoff, Michael Johnstone and Daniel Franklin.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Brown drives through and clinches with Murphy against the cage.

Brown pulls guard successfully.

Brown is looking for a guillotine. You can't force these things though and Murphy defends well.
Murphy passes into half guard.

Brown is working on a guillotine. He's managed to get to full guard and he's really squeezing tight! Murphy is tapping! Great win for Brown!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 0:21 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Guillotine). Colby Brown!

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 heavyweight MMA rules bout between William Silverado (ranked 4082 p4p, 3144 weight class) and Jackson Silva (ranked 509 p4p, 403 weight class). Jackson Silva has the better chin. Will he look to stand and bang today?

Silverado
vs
Silva

200 cm
25
275
1 - 1 - 0

188 cm
25
250
2 - 1 - 0

BJJ Blue Belt
Brawler
Prefers standup

Good wrestler
Brawler
Determined

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 1 - 1 - 0, fighting out of The Island, William Silverado!
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, Jackson Silva!
The judges for this bout are Daniel Franklin, Sandra Marshall and Santiago Holmes.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!

Silva decides to change it up a bit and drives through with a nice takedown into half guard.
Silverado is trying to control but can't.
Silva with a momentary lay and pray from half guard.
Silverado wants to get back to full guard.
Silverado knows he needs to get back to his feet asap. He's simply no match for Silva on the ground.
Well, if Silva is going to just lie there, perhaps we should talk about what we're having for dinner tonight… I'm having a ham and pineapple pizza… Yum. Can't wait.
Silva trying to mount his opponent but Silverado defends it.
Silva is looking to take a break and control but Silverado is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Silva wants to free his trapped foot but Silverado is holding on for dear life with his legs.
Silva content to sit in half guard and control for a moment.
Silva tries to pass the half guard into mount. Silverado knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Silva controlling the pace.

Silva is trying a forearm choke… I don't think that's going to do much at this level of the game.

Silva maintaining the dominant position here and is working for a kimura. He's locked it up! Silverado could be in real trouble here! He's trying to wriggle out but Silva has cracked it and Silverado is screaming in pain - he's tapped out! Great finish by Silva!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 1:53 of round 1, we have a winner by way of Submission (Kimura). Jackson Silva!

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
38%

Co-main event

Coming up we have a lightweight MMA rules bout between Purple Aki (ranked 2445 p4p, 2976 weight class) and Aldo Nova (ranked 298 p4p, 367 weight class). Nova has chosen R.A.T.M. / NO SHELTER as his entrance music, which hasn't gone down very well with the crowd. Well, the cameraman is lingering on a pretty young lady for a bit too long there. Keep your eyes on the prize buddy or you'll miss the fighter intros!

Aki
vs
Nova

178 cm
25
159
2 - 0 - 0

175 cm
25
163
2 - 1 - 0

Good wrestling
Basic striking
Very quick

BJJ Blue Belt
Solid Muay Thai
Solid chin

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 3 rounds, in the lightweight division.
Introducing the fighter to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Purple Aki!
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, Aldo Nova!
The judges for this bout are Dirk Anderson, Santiago Holmes and Sandra Marshall.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Nova keeps his opponent at a distance with a nice jab.

Aki changes levels and drives through with a really nice takedown into side control. Nova looks really pissed at himself for not defending that better.
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.
Nova is working to avoid the ground and pound but Aki connects with a decent elbow.
Aki tries to move into full mount but can't pass Nova's legs.
Aki grinds an elbow into Nova's temple.
Nova being controlled for a moment.
Aki fails to land a wild elbow strike.
We've been hearing good reports from Aki'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.
Aki remains in side control and seems content to stay there. It's a versatile position from which he can work both strikes and submissions, whilst maintaining that control, so maybe he'll sit here for a while.
Aki tries to move into full mount but can't pass Nova's legs.
Aki working the head with strikes.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Aki throws an elbow but Nova slips to the side and avoids it well.
The ref warns both fighters not to hold the cage as they work up against the meshing.
Nova seems a little lost for a moment, as Aki dominates the positioning.
Aki cracks Nova with an elbow. That is naaassty.
Aki is looking to take a break and control but Nova is keeping him honest, looking to work from the bottom.
A bit of a lull in the action. I'm sure it will pick up again soon... even if the ref has to physically pick them up and put them back on their feet.
Nova dodges the ground and pound from Aki.
Aki cracks Nova with an elbow. That is naaassty.
Aki landing strikes.
Aki creates some space and throws a big elbow, but Nova sees it coming and moves his head just enough to avoid the strike.
Aki is maintaining the dominant position - no doubt Nova will start to get frustrated soon if he's not already.
Aki lands a knee to the body and a forearm to the face.
Aki has been looking to land a fair amount of strikes on the ground. He might be looking to soften his opponent up in order to work for a submission.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Aki looks up at the clock and then as Nova takes his cue and looks up at the clock too, Aki smacks him right in the chops with a big elbow! How rude!
Aki controls the position.
Nova really doesn't want to stay on the ground with Aki. If he can't get it back to his feet, it's only a matter of time before he'll be tapping out.
Aki working away.
Nova is positioning himself to get back to half guard.
Nova takes a big shot right to the temple there but he's taken it well.
Nova gets back to half guard.
The fighters are pressed up against the cage, both looking to find a bit of space to work.
Aki trying to pass the guard but Nova defending well.
Aki slows the pace down in half guard.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Nova wants to get back to full guard.
Aki controlling the pace.
Aki lands strikes from half guard.
Aki controlling the action here.
Aki lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Aki is figuring out what he wants to do next.

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.
Nova avoiding damage under a succession of punches from Aki.
Nova is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Aki scores with a couple of nice shots.
Aki lands with an elbow from half guard - that looked like it hurt.
The referee calls for the fighters to work.
Aki working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Aki is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

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

Nova with a nice calf kick.
A low kick from Nova misses

so Aki counters with a double leg into guard. Good agility.
Aki loading up with the ground and pound but he's missing more than he's landing in this flurry.
Aki working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Aki is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Aki working from the guard for now, landing some ground and pound.
Nova looks more muscular than last time we saw him. He must have been on the weights.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Aki won't allow Nova to sweep him here.
Aki wants to pass the guard but Nova is keeping the position.
Aki makes a bit of distance and scores with some ground and pound, still in guard.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nova keeping moving, preventing Aki from controlling successfully.
Aki connects with a couple of short punches.
Aki pushes down on Nova's leg and manages to get into half guard.
Aki content to control rather than advance.
Nova is trying to defend against the ground and pound but Aki scores with a couple of nice shots.
Purple Aki overall seems to be getting the better of the ground position in the fight so far.
Aki controlling the action here.
Aki'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.
Nova blocking the ground and pound attempt from Aki.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Aki is taking a breather. Nova says something to him but it's hard to make out. Perhaps he's telling him to get on with it and actually do something.
Nova taking some punishment here, with Aki in his half guard.
Aki prevents Nova from improving his position.
The referee walks around the fighters to get a better view of the action. Aki lands a nice short elbow.
The two fighters exchange a few words. I couldn't hear what they were saying but maybe it's more fun if you make it up yourself. Aki connects with a nice short shot to Nova's temple.
Aki tries to pass the half guard into mount. Nova knows what he's doing though and prevents the attempt.
Nova blocking the ground and pound attempt from Aki.
Aki trying to control from half guard but Nova is working away.
Aki stalling.
Aki is really dominating this fight. Is there anything that Nova can do to turn this around?

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Nova wants to improve his position but Aki is controlling well.
Aki is just sitting in half guard, waiting for something to happen.
Aki takes advantage of the dominant position to land a couple of big hammer fists.
Aki drops an elbow to the side of Nova's head.
Aki is figuring out what he wants to do next.
Aki seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Aki working some ground and pound from close in. He's looking to maintain this position and strike for a while by the looks of things... although he'll probably advance to full mount in a minute now I've said that.
Aki throwing shots but Nova is blocking nicely.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Aki content to control rather than advance.
Aki looks to score some points with some ground and pound.
Aki wants to take a breather but Nova is having none of it.
Aki missing with some ground and pound from the half guard.
Aki seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Nova is pressing down on Aki's left leg trying to get back to full guard. He's managed it.
Aki slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Aki postures up and lands a big shot to Nova's brow.
The crowd thankful this round is nearly over.
Aki working in close now, lands a nice elbow to the side of Nova's head.
Nova trying to keep a closed guard but Aki is proving a slippery customer.
And that is the end of the round. The fighters go back to their corners.

Purple Aki dominated that second round.
The minute break is over - no more time for sponges and pep talks - back to the action! So, we enter the final round. Let's see if either fighter can bring us a finish, or whether we're going to the judges scorecards.

Aki with poor footwork there. He got himself in a bit of a tangle, enabling Nova to score with a decent uppercut.
Nova throws an overhand right that lands on Aki's shoulder, as Aki tries to avoid the shot.

Nova gets caught on his heels momentarily as he allows Aki to score an easy takedown into full guard.
Nova looking for a sweep. Not yet Nova, not yet.
Nova trying to control the position.
Nova looking to sweep here. No luck so far.
Aki postures up.
We've had a slow start to the round here - hopefully the action picks up.
Aki slows down the pace of the fight, as he sits in guard.
Aki scoring with some ground and pound.

That's one minute gone in the round.
Nova trying to control the position.
Aki wants to pass the guard but Nova is keeping the position.
Aki is working hard here to advance position.
Aki sitting in guard here, content to control.
Nova keeping full guard, as Aki tries to pass.
Aki passes into half guard.
Aki keeping composed on the top, looking to control the action.

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.
Nova is trying to get back to full guard.
Aki seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.
Aki is scoring with some nice ground and pound from the dominant position.
Aki looking to pass the half guard. Not this time.
Nova has no desire to be mounted, so is trying to control. Aki is working away from the top position though.
Nova regains full guard. Nicely done.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Aki is taking a break and basically stalling. The referee will not allow him to do that for long.
Nova controls Aki momentarily but Aki frees himself.
Aki controlling from the guard. I say controlling but really, he's stalling.
Nova wants to control but Aki passes easily into half guard.
Nova on the receiving end of some nice ground and pound.
Aki is nestled in close to Nova, controlling him well. He's worked in a nice elbow to the side of the head as well, for good measure.
Aki controlling the action here.
Purple Aki is fighting for a decision here - he's started to take the cautious approach.

That's four minutes gone in the round.
Aki seems to have a rather negative gameplan on the ground. He seems keen to just score the takedown and hold down Nova for as long as he can get away with.
Aki landing with strikes to the body and head, softening up his opponent.
Aki is taking a breather. Nova says something to him but it's hard to make out. Perhaps he's telling him to get on with it and actually do something.
Aldo Nova has stepped it up - he knows he needs a finish here!
Aki continues to stall.
Aki lands a big shot. The thud that echoes around the arena is like music to the fans' ears.
Nova is looking to escape.
Boooooooooooooooooooo!!! God, this has been a terrible round. Come on you two, sort yourselves out!
Aki sitting and controlling from the half guard.
Aki seems to be taking a bit of a break to think of his next move. He lands a short punch in the meantime.

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

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3 rounds of action, we go to the scorecards for a decision.
Judge Dirk Anderson scores the fight 30:27
Judge Santiago Holmes scores the fight 30:27
Judge Sandra Marshall scores the fight 30:27

In favor of your winner, by unanimous decision... Purple Aki!
Purple Aki decided to thank the fans in attendance for making a great atmosphere. It seemed to go down pretty well.

C
A

C
B

energy
A | B

hype
A | B

pop
A | B

mgr
A | B

FIGHT
RATING
29%

Main event

Coming up we have a super heavyweight MMA rules bout between Roger Penrose (ranked 1941 p4p, 3123 weight class) and Kent Fredricks (ranked 65 p4p, 109 weight class). Kent Fredricks acknowledges the crowd's support as he enters the cage.

Penrose
vs
Fredricks

194 cm
25
300
3 - 0 - 0

225 cm
25
300
2 - 0 - 0

Good wrestling
Good kicks
Good chin

BJJ White Belt
Excellent boxer
Heavy handed

Monkey Business

Ladies and gentlemen. This fight is 5 rounds, for the super heavyweight championship of the world!
Introducing the champion to my left, fighting out of the red corner.
With a record of 3 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Roger Penrose!
And introducing the challenger to my right, fighting out of the blue corner.
With a record of 2 - 0 - 0, fighting out of The Island, Kent Fredricks!
The judges for this bout are Winston Alpacca, Santiago Holmes and Michael Johnstone.

The bell rings for round one and we are underway!
Penrose cracks Fredricks with a right hand to the side of the head.
Fredricks swings wildly with a couple of big hooks
letting Penrose counter with a right hand.
Kent Fredricks seems to be the more aggressive standup fighter in this bout.
Fredricks swings and misses with a hook to the body.
A punch combination from Fredricks misses.
Penrose throwing a counter right hand but Fredricks manages to avoid it.
Penrose throws the left hand but Fredricks avoids the punch easily.
Penrose lands with a kick to the ribs.
Fredricks thows a leg kick but Penrose checks it
and he gets countered with a snapping leg kick.
Penrose checks a leg kick nicely.
Penrose appears to be looking for a counter punch to the body.
Penrose looks to score with a jab to the body but Fredricks is just out of range.
Fredricks misses with a combination
and Penrose counters with a nice low kick that buckles Fredricks's knee momentarily.
Penrose dips to his left and cracks Fredricks with an uppercut!
Fredricks fails to land with a series of punches.
This has been an exciting period of action!
Fredricks misses with a head kick.
Penrose connects with a crisp jab.
Fredricks throws a body punch but Penrose moves out of range.
Penrose appeared to be looking to counter that last move with a leg kick.
A nice inside leg kick there by Penrose. That's going to slow Fredricks down.

That's one minute gone in the round.

Penrose cracks Fredricks with a big right hand that sends him to the floor! Fredricks looks wobbly but he's sprung back up to his feet straight away… can Penrose finish him?
A low kick from Fredricks is predictable there
and Penrose counters with an inside leg kick.
Fredricks looks winded!
A solid leg kick lands there for Penrose.
Fredricks throws a head kick that misses and slips in the process. He scrambles back to his feet and the fighters circle.

Penrose feints and then winds up with a huge right hand that connects perfectly and sends Fredricks sprawling to the canvas! Fredricks rolls over backwards and springs off the cage and manages to regain his footing - how acrobatic! Oh, he's still wobbly - can Penrose finish him?!

Fredricks is rocked!
This is a great period of action - very entertaining stuff!
Penrose looking to take his opponent's legs away with the low kicks.
Penrose throws a hook but Fredricks blocks it.
Fredricks moves into range and connects with a jab.
Penrose thuds his shin into the meat of Fredricks's side.
Fredricks swings away but doesn't land with a series of punches.
Fredricks slips a straight right by Penrose.
Fredricks tries to bum rush Penrose with a series of wild strikes but Penrose uses good footwork to avoid the assault.
Penrose looks to throw the jab but Fredricks is out of range.
Penrose throws a shot from downtown. Fredricks moves away and avoids it.
Penrose fakes with a right hand and throws a good leg kick, right into the thigh. That had to hurt Fredricks.

That's two minutes gone in the round.
Fredricks throws a head kick that misses
and Penrose counters with a good low kick that Fredricks was not able to check.
Fredricks uses some good footwork to avoid the body shot by Penrose.
Penrose is looking to slow Fredricks down with leg kicks.
Fredricks has tried to improve his agility in the runup to this fight.
Fredricks throws a head kick but Penrose moves out of range.
Penrose throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Fredricks sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Fredricks is looking to land body kicks.
Fredricks will need to tighten up his combinations if he doesn't want to gas himself out, swinging at thin air.
Penrose is looking to counter with a shot to the body.
Penrose tries a switch kick but it misses it's target.
Ooooh, nice body kick lands from Penrose. Fredricks shrugs it off though.
Penrose throws a hook but Fredricks blocks it.
Fredricks throws an uppercut from half a mile away. Penrose sees it coming and avoids it easily.
Penrose scores with a body shot.
Penrose scores with a jab.

That's three minutes gone in the round.
Fredricks takes a really solid shot there but just smiles back and shrugs his shoulders.

Penrose sends Fredricks crashing to the mat with a devastating uppercut! Penrose is motioning to the referee to let Fredricks up. He wants to try and finish this one on the feet!
Fredricks is still on wobbly legs! Can Penrose finish him?
A head kick by Penrose - that's a beauty! Fredricks is out but he's somehow still standing... he's going... going... gone. Like a drunk walking down the middle of the road, the inevitable face plant follows and the delayed knockout arrives. Even Penrose can't help but laugh at the bizarre end to this one!

Ladies and gentlemen, after 3:15 of round 1, we have a winner by way of KO (Head Kick). Roger Penrose!
Roger Penrose retains his super heavyweight title!
After winning the bout, Roger Penrose thanked all his fans and promised he'd do even better in his next fight. The crowd seemed to love his humility.