PURE Fighting Championships: 21st Century Vale Tudo

wekka · January 7, 2013

Envision an organization with the pageantry of the Olympics and a tournament format similar to Bellator, but on a much grander and appropriate scale. Elaborate entrance ramps, lighting, and national pride. Tournaments in each of the eight weight classes would usher in the new organization in hopes of finding a new star, or rekindling an older one. To qualify, one must be unproven, underappreciated, or unknown.

Tournaments all consist of 16 participants, reserves only utilized when necessary. Each opening round will commence under its own separate card. As the tournaments dwindle down, class tournaments will then be combined to make steadily stacked cards. For example: HW, CW, MW, and WW all have their opening rounds on their own eight fight bill. As it advances, the HW/CW quarters and MW/WW quarters will have their own respective cards, and will eventually combine all four for their semis. The same works out for the rest of the weightclasses.

Participants can range from prospects, veterans, pro wrestlers, sumo rikishis, Olympians, and champions of other combat sports.

Co-promotion is expected as are various fighters either moving up or down in weight.

After finals are determined, all championship bouts will occur on a massive 15 fight card that takes place within a soccer stadium.

http://www.gamerdna.com/uimage/CeG1fxSA/full/pure-logo.jpg

Ruleset:

*Pride rules with the inclusion of elbows.

*Two ten minute rounds.

*Two judges will score the bout, if the verdict is split, the referee will then make his decision. If it is still ruled a draw, the fight will be rescheduled at a later date.

* If a victor is injured and unable to fight in the next round, a reserve bout will be scheduled at a later card between two fellow defeated grand prix particpants: the fighter defeated by the injured competitor and the best performing fighter coming off of another loss. The original victor will be placed in a future reserve bout, if available.

*Fights will occur in an octaring, ala Pride's the BEST, turnbuckles similar to what Sengoku used.

*Cards will occur monthly, up until the semifinals, where a rest period will be implemented.

Past Events:

PURE Fighting Championships: Heavyweight Grand Prix Opening Round (Saitama Super Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships II: Cruiserweight Grand Prix Opening Round (Ariake Colosseum)

PURE Fighting Championships III: Middleweight Grand Prix Opening Round (Yokohama Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships IV: Welterweight Grand Prix Opening Round (Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium)

PURE Fighting Championships V: Lightweight Grand Prix Opening Round (Nippon Budokan)

PURE Fighting Championships VI: Featherweight Grand Prix Opening Round (Yoyogi National Gymnasium)

PURE Fighting Championships VII: Bantamweight Grand Prix Opening Round (Ryogoku Kokugikan)

PURE Fighting Championships VIII: Flyweight Grand Prix Opening Round (Tokyo Dome Hall)

PURE Fighting Championships IX: Heavyweight/Cruiserweight Grand Prix Quarterfinals (Saitama Super Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships X: Middleweight/Welterweight Grand Prix Quarterfinals (Nippon Gaishi Hall)

PURE Fighting Championships XI: Lightweight/Featherweight Grand Prix Quarterfinals (Fukuoka Marine Messe)

PURE Fighting Championships XII: Bantamweight/Flyweight

Grand Prix Quarterfinals (Yoyogi 2nd Gymnasium)

PURE Fighting Championships XIII: HW/CW/MW/WW Grand Prix Semifinals (Yokohama Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships XIV: LW/FW/BW/FLY Grand Prix Semifinals (Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium)

PURE Fighting Championships XV: Grand Championship (Toyota Stadium)

PURE Fighting Championships XVI: Rampage Rising (World Memorial Hall)

PURE Fighting Championships XVII: American Takeover (Harrah's Cherokee Council Fire Ballroom)

PURE Fighting Championships XVIII: Welterweight Championship (WesBanco Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships XIX: Middleweight Championship (Arena do Gremio)

PURE Fighting Championships XX: Heavyweight Championship (DSC Indoor Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships XXI: Lightweight Championship (Ginasio Milton Olaio Filho)

PURE Fighting Championships XXII: Cruiserweight Championship (Ginasio Nilson Nelson)

PURE Fighting Championships XXIII: Featherweight Championship (Budweiser Gardens)

PURE Fighting Championships XXIV: Bantamweight Championship (Yoyogi 2nd Gymnasium)

PURE Fighting Championships XXV: Flyweight Championship (Saitama Super Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships XXVI: Openweight Grand Prix Opening Round (Nippon Budokan)

PURE Fighting Championships XXVII: Openweight Grand Prix Final Round (Tokyo Dome)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors (Nokia Theater)

PURE Fighting Championships XXVIII: Heavyweight Challenger Grand Prix Opening Round (Nippon Gaishi Hall)

PURE Fighting Championships XXIX: Cruiserweight Challenger Grand Prix Opening Round (White Ring Nagano)

PURE Fighting Championships XXX: Middleweight Challenger Grand Prix Opening Round (Hamamatsu Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships XXXI: Welterweight Challenger Grand Prix Opening Round (Hiroshima Sun Plaza)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors II (Trump Taj Mahal)

PURE Fighting Championships XXXII: Lightweight Challenger Grand Prix Opening Round (Hokkaido Prefectural Sports Center)

PURE Fighting Championships XXXIII: Featherweight Challenger Grand Prix Opening Round (Komazawa Gymnasium)

PURE Fighting Championships XXXIV: Bantamweight Challenger Grand Prix Opening Round (Fukuoka Marine Messe)

PURE Fighting Championships XXXV: Flyweight Challenger Grand Prix Opening Round (Namihaya Dome)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors III (Pearl at the Palms)

PURE Fighting Championships XXXVI: Heavyweight/Cruiserweight Challenger Grand Prix Quarterfinals (Osaka Municipal Central Gymnasium)

PURE Fighting Championships XXXVII: Middleweight/Welterweight Challenger Grand Prix Quarterfinals (Hiroshima Green Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships XXXVIII: Lightweight/Featherweight Challenger Grand Prix Quarterfinals (Sun Dome Fukui)

PURE Fighting Championships XXXIX: Bantamweight/Flyweight Challenger Grand Prix Quarterfinals (Kagoshima Arena)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors IV: Redemption (Cobo Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships XL: HW/CW/MW/WW Challenger Grand Prix Semifinals (Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium)

PURE Fighting Championships XLI: LW/FW/BW/FLY Challenger Grand Prix Semifinals (Yoyogi National Gymnasium)

PURE Fighting Championships XLII: Son of Super Hulk Tournament Opening Round (Korakuen Hall)

PURE Fighting Championships XLIII: Women's Openweight Grand Prix Opening Round (Ryogoku Kokugikan)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors V: The Heavyweights (Fox Theatre)

PURE Fighting Championships XLIV: Grand Final (Saitama Super Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships XLV: Son of Super Hulk Tournament Final Round (World Memorial Hall)

PURE Fighting Championships XLVI: Women's Openweight Grand Prix Final Round (Yokohama Arena)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors VI: The Cruiserweights (Toyota Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 47th Battle (Mohegan Sun Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 48th Battle (Saitama Super Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 49th Battle (Nippon Budokan)

PURE Fighting Championships 50th Battle (Al Jazira Stadium)

PURE Fighting Championships 51st Battle (Arena Jaragua)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors VII: The Middleweights (The Odeum)

PURE Fighting Championships 52nd Battle (at&t Center)

PURE Fighting Championships 53rd Battle (Sajik Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 54th Battle (Perth Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 55th Battle (Yokohama Arena)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors VIII: The Welterweights (Granada Theater)

PURE Fighting Championships 56th Battle (Philips Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 57th Battle (Nippon Gaishi Hall)

PURE Fighting Championships 58th Battle (American Airlines Center)

PURE Fighting Championships 59th Battle (Seoul Olympic Arena)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors IX: The Lightweights (Agganis Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 60th Battle (Barclays Center)

PURE Fighting Championships 61st Battle (Goiania Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 62nd Battle (Ariake Colosseum)

PURE Fighting Championships 63rd Battle (Capital FM Arena)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors X: The Featherweights (Nokia Theater)

PURE Fighting Championships 64th Battle (Saitama Super Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 65th Battle (Oracle Arena)

ASURA: The Beauty of Combat (Bodymaker Colosseum)

PURE Fighting Championships 66th Battle (Mineirinho Arena)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors XI: The Bantamweights (Fillmore Miami Beach)

PURE Fighting Championships 67th Battle (Ergo Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 68th Battle (Yokohama Arena)

PURE Fighting Championships 69th Battle (Ginasio da Portuguesa)

PURE Fighting Championships 70th Battle: Featherweight World Grand Prix Opening Round (Nippon Budokan)

PURE presents: Ring of Warriors XII: The Flyweights (Celebrity Theater)

PURE Fighting Championships 71st Battle (Fukuoka Marine Messe)

wekka · January 9, 2013

PURE Fighting Championships formally announced; immediate plans and goals discussed

This past weekend, a press statement was released bringing attention to a new mixed martial arts organization aiming to make major waves in the sport.

Financially backed by the masterminds behind Abu Dhabi Fighting Championships and residing president of the Abu Dhabi Submission Grappling Combat Championships, H. H. Sheikh Mohamed Bin Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan and Hazza bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, this new venture is attempting to achieve the closest thing to a true mixed martial arts championship for the first time in this current day of age in the young sport.

This afternoon, both Nahyan's, Akira Maeda, and Ronald Lee Sartin II were on hand at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo in Roppongi Hills for a press conference formally announcing the introduction of PURE Fighting Championships.

Here were some of the things that were discussed at today's press conference:

* After the successes they've had with their ADCC (which is unarguably, the most prestigious grappling tournament in the world) and ADFC, the Nahyan's felt like it was time to expand their horizons and increase their exposure from beyond Dubai and the Middle East. Their idea was to locate their new organization in Japan, as they believe with the combination of prestige of martial arts in Japan's heritage and the struggling market for the sport ripe to be taken advantage of, that Japan would be the perfect candidate to become the home country of PURE.

* After the previous statement, they introduced the other two members on hand for the press conference and their positions within the company. Akira Maeda, most famous for being the head of RINGS and being placed in charged of HERO*s, was announced as the company president. He is felt as having a brilliant mind for the sport and a strong connection with Japanese fans.

The other person was introduced as Ronald Lee Sartin II, an American with no prior experience within the sport professionally but is being touted as having a keen eye for talent and also a great mind for MMA. He will be PURE's official matchmaker.

* Also announced was that production would be controlled by former Dream Stage Entertainment employees. The name might seem familiar as they were the minds behind the production for Pride FC and were legally free to begin a relationship with a new MMA organization just this year. Both Nahyan's feel as if this final piece will really bring PURE together and legitimize it almost immediately.

* Through a translator, the Nahyan's were asked what they specifically wanted to achieve with the new organization. Both feel as if the sport is slowly heading in the same direction as boxing with all of the talent spread out worldwide with nearly as many belts as there are high level fighters.

Where ADCC achieves crowning undisputed champions of the world in the sport of grappling, they believed that the sport of MMA could use the same kind of attention. While many of the P4P best fighters in the world are in America, they perceive that there is still enough worldwide talent outside of Zuffa owned companies and Bellator to determine top flight champions.

Following this announcement, they discuss deals with M-1, KSW, Shooto, Pancrase, and various other organizations to utilize certain fighters in return for open promotion at PURE events. Definitely a step in the right direction for the sport.

* Akira Maeda assured that being backed by billions upon billions of funds, that PURE is very willing to take risks for the reason of further legitimizing a sport that is still seen as barbaric amongst casuals and critics. The idea is to treat PURE as a sport first and entertainment second, although it will still play a large part in the organization.

* Maeda was also questioned about the state of JMMA and if this will be a viable decision to hold such an undaunted conception in a region that is undoubtedly in rough spot in regards to the sport. He believes that with so much money to fall back on, that they can afford to take a risk like that. While popularity is down, interest can easily be raised by signing fighters such as Asashoryu and numerous Olympians. It's human nature to be intrigued by the otherwise unknown and figures held in high regard not only nationally, but worldwide.

* Matchmaker Sartin was next to be questioned. First, he showed great thanks for getting such a humongous opportunity, will take full advantage of it and guarantees many exciting fights in store.

Afterwards, he goes on to announced that the first eight cards are finalized and brackets are predetermined. Outside of the Flyweight card, which due to a healthy amount of talent will have a reserve bout as an opener, every other Opening Round card will be scheduled the same and is as followed:

9 seed x 8 seed

10 seed x 7 seed

11 seed x 6 seed

12 seed x 5 seed

13 seed x 4 seed

14 seed x 3 seed

15 seed x 2 seed

16 seed x 1 seed

Of course, the 8 x 9 bout will be the opener and so on.

* To finish the press conference, it was announced that the Grand Championship card will officially take place at Toyota Stadium, a 50,000+ seat soccer stadium.

Afterwards, the plan is to have two special shows following the Grand Prix cards and have a regional show in the U.S. to discover untapped American talent and another Japanese show that is hinted to have a special main event for hardcore fans.

Once those are completed, each champion will fight on his own card to be held in his home country, excluding the Heavyweight champion, who will fight on a special card to take place at U.A.E., the homeland of the PURE CEO's. It is slated to have a high level opponent for the champion and utilize many fighters that are familiar with the ADCC tournament.

* The last announcement was that the first card is scheduled for either the end of January or early February. Another press conference featuring all Heavyweight Grand Prix participants will be held the week of the event, along with the weigh-ins.

Expect huge things from PURE Fighting Championships

Jayden · January 9, 2013

YES!

love this. A realistic roster that brings plenty of intrigue, not least through some of the really interesting choices with debuting guys from other disciplines.

Not much else to say, not going to go nuts with predictions apart from the Heavyweight's as that's the first show, but this looks great.

Jerome Le Banner (3-2-1; K-1 WGP Runner-up 2x) x

Asashoryu (debut; Yokozuna Rikishi; 25x High Level Basho Champion)

Satoshi Ishii (6-2-1; 2008 Olympic Judo Gold Medalist)

x

Levan Razmadze (5-0; former DEEP Megaton Champion)

Guram Gugenishvili (11-2; former M-1 Heavyweight Champion) x

Maro Perak (22-3-1)

Liu Deli (debut; 2007 Asian Games Greco-Roman Gold Medalist)

x

Mijain Lopez (debut; 2008 & 2012 Olympic Greco-Roman Gold Medalist)

Jared Rosholt (4-1; 2010 NCAA Championship Runner-up & 3x All-American)x

Yusuke Kawaguchi (13-6; former DEEP Megaton Champion)

Shamil Abdurahimov (13-2; former ADFC Heavyweight Champion)x

David Oliva (6-1; former KSW HWGP Champion)

Sokoudjou (13-10; former KSW Light Heavyweight Champion)x

Stav Economou (14-2-1; former UWC Heavyweight Champion)

Todd Duffee (8-2)x

Vitaly Minakov (10-0; 4x Sambo World Champion)

wekka · January 10, 2013

YES!

love this. A realistic roster that brings plenty of intrigue, not least through some of the really interesting choices with debuting guys from other disciplines.

Not much else to say, not going to go nuts with predictions apart from the Heavyweight's as that's the first show, but this looks great.

Appreciate the kind feedback.

With all of the different UFC based dynasties and completely fantastical organizations, I figured a realistic organization trying to get its feet off the ground would be a breath of fresh air.

I'm looking to play this out as long as possible, I have some really good ideas beyond what i've announced so hopefully it'll stay interesting just as long. Good to have you along.

I'll try to utilize prediction winners somehow after the opening rounds are completed since everything is pretty much set.

ManUnderMask · January 10, 2013

Any dynasty that uses Pride rules with elbows is a dynasty I follow.

Also, I'm a sucker for Jerome Le Banner.

wekka · January 10, 2013

Any dynasty that uses Pride rules with elbows is a dynasty I follow.

Also, I'm a sucker for Jerome Le Banner.

thanks for the feedback, i'm hoping the ruleset combined with mostly entertaining fighters will lead to great fights.

in a relatively inexperienced field, I thought Le Banner would be an absolute star in the Grand Prix, especially since he's practically a god in Japan. I thought a main event between him and Asashoryu would not only be extremely intriguing but a huge money maker. A possible fight with Todd Duffee in the Quarterfinals would be disgustingly good.

completesky · January 10, 2013

I have started many games of WMMA that are very similar to this. Always fun, especially matchmaking the secondary Japanese show. May I suggest a rookie GP sometime in the future?

Also, Kume still has Nam to beat before becoming ROAD LW champion.

wekka · January 10, 2013

I have started many games of WMMA that are very similar to this. Always fun, especially matchmaking the secondary Japanese show. May I suggest a rookie GP sometime in the future?

Also, Kume still has Nam to beat before becoming ROAD LW champion.

Yeah, I know i'm jumping the gun a bit, but I just can't see Kume losing to Nam. It's just a bad stylistic match-up for him so I just went ahead and crowned him champion lol.

That's interesting you bring up the Rookie GP, because I planned on doing something similar to that after the first set of GP's have concluded. I'll probably include some of the younger participants in the current GP's, one veteran, and the rest being completely new fighters. Just don't know if I want to keep it in Japan or go global with it.

Not a true rookie grand prix by definition but a lot of the guys don't have very much experience. On top of that, I have two other grand prix fields in mind that will be more entertainment than sport. Can't wait to announce those.

wekka · January 11, 2013

Now that I think about, I do have another idea on the table utilizing amateurs in a feeder league. So, yes, there will eventually be a true Rookie Grand Prix.

wekka · January 15, 2013

PURE Fighting Championships I date set! Card and broadcast information also finalized!

PURE Fighting Championships I: Heavyweight Grand Prix Opening Round
@ Saitama Super Arena/ 2nd Week of February

Match One
Todd Duffee (8-2/USA) x Vitaly Minakov (10-0/Russia)

Match Two
Sokoudjou (13-10/Cameroon) x Stav Economou (14-2-1/England)

Match Three
Shamil Abdurahimov (13-2/Dagestan) x David Oliva (6-1/USA)

Match Four
Jared Rosholt (4-1/USA) x Yusuke Kawaguchi (13-6/Japan)

Match Five
Liu Deli (debut/China) x Mijain Lopez (debut/Cuba)

Match Six
Guram Gugenishvili (11-2/Georgia) x Maro Perak (22-3-1/Croatia)

Match Seven
Satoshi Ishii (6-2-1/Japan) x Levan Razmadze (5-0/Georgia)

Main Event
Asashoryu (debut/Mongolia) x Jerome Le Banner (3-2-1/France)

Worldwide Television Partners:
Japan: WOWOW PPV
USA: AXStv
Canada: Fight! Network
UK: Sky Sports 4
Europe: Eurosport 2
Mainland Asia: ESPN Asia Pan-Regional
Australia: FOX Sports Australia
UAE: Dubai Sports HD
Everywhere else: uStream iPPV

English Broadcasting Team:
Michael Schiavello & Pat Miletich

Ring Announcers:
Entrance: Max Powers
Ring: KEI GRANT

completesky · January 15, 2013

Match One

Todd Duffee (8-2/USA) x Vitaly Minakov (10-0/Russia)

Match Two

Sokoudjou (13-10/Cameroon) x Stav Economou (14-2-1/England)

Match Three

Shamil Abdurahimov (13-2/Dagestan) x David Oliva (6-1/USA)

Match Four

Jared Rosholt (4-1/USA) x Yusuke Kawaguchi (13-6/Japan)

Match Five

Liu Deli (debut/China) x Mijain Lopez (debut/Cuba)

Match Six

Guram Gugenishvili (11-2/Georgia) x Maro Perak (22-3-1/Croatia)

Match Seven

Satoshi Ishii (6-2-1/Japan) x Levan Razmadze (5-0/Georgia)

Main Event

Asashoryu (debut/Mongolia) x Jerome Le Banner (3-2-1/France)

Jingo · January 15, 2013

Match One

Todd Duffee(8-2/USA) x Vitaly Minakov (10-0/Russia)

Match Two

Sokoudjou (13-10/Cameroon) x Stav Economou (14-2-1/England)

Match Three

Shamil Abdurahimov (13-2/Dagestan) x David Oliva (6-1/USA)

Match Four

Jared Rosholt (4-1/USA) x Yusuke Kawaguchi (13-6/Japan)

Match Five

Liu Deli (debut/China) x Mijain Lopez (debut/Cuba)

Match Six

Guram Gugenishvili (11-2/Georgia) x Maro Perak (22-3-1/Croatia)

Match Seven

Satoshi Ishii (6-2-1/Japan) x Levan Razmadze (5-0/Georgia)

Main Event

Asashoryu (debut/Mongolia) x Jerome Le Banner (3-2-1/France)

wekka · January 17, 2013

I would again like to thank everyone for their participation and am looking forward to supplying multitudes of cards for those that have predicted.

I've got two write-up's remaining; the weigh-in/event press conference and the Blurcat prediction article, which will be an every event thing.

Afterwards, PURE is set to begin.

CageRage · January 17, 2013

Looking forward to the start of this!

Match One

Todd Duffee (8-2/USA) x Vitaly Minakov (10-0/Russia)

Match Two

Sokoudjou (13-10/Cameroon) x Stav Economou (14-2-1/England)

Match Three

Shamil Abdurahimov (13-2/Dagestan) x David Oliva (6-1/USA)

Match Four

Jared Rosholt (4-1/USA) x Yusuke Kawaguchi (13-6/Japan)

Match Five

Liu Deli (debut/China) x Mijain Lopez (debut/Cuba)

Match Six

Guram Gugenishvili (11-2/Georgia) x Maro Perak (22-3-1/Croatia)

Match Seven

Satoshi Ishii (6-2-1/Japan) x Levan Razmadze (5-0/Georgia)

Main Event

Asashoryu (debut/Mongolia) x Jerome Le Banner (3-2-1/France)

wekka · January 17, 2013

Would everyone prefer full match logs or rundowns?

wekka · January 21, 2013

I've encountered some computer problems this past week, so I haven't been able to update this as much as I'd like. Once those are figured out, ill post the next two write-ups and go straight into the cards.

I've decided to post full match write-ups for the time being, until I get feedback to do otherwise. THIS IS A PROMOTION FOR THE PEOPLE!

I've also got about forty five events outlined, so this shall last for the near future.

wekka · January 25, 2013

PURE Fighting Championships: Heavyweight Grand Prix Opening Round Preview

Less than a week away, the buzz surrounding this event is undeniable. The Japanese Mixed Martial Arts scene hasn't seen anything with so much anticipation since arguably, the first DREAM event in 2008.

The matter of the fact is that all of this hype is completely warranted. With the debuts of Asashoryu, who many people have wanted to see make the conversion for years and were recently doubting if it would ever happen. Now, the time has come for such a massive event in JMMA. So massive that it's even making waves in the mainstream Japanese media, such an occasion that the dwindling JMMA forefront desperately needed.

It doesn't stop there as two other highly decorated combatants make their MMA debut. Mijain Lopez, a two time Olympic gold medalist, and Liu Deli, the towering greco roman wrestler from China that was rumored to have been signed by Sengoku four years ago, plans that obviously fell through. While there have been numerous Olympic gold medalists to try their hand at the sport over the years, a multiple gold medalist is practically unheard of.

As if that weren't enough, high profile fighters such as Satoshi Ishii and Jerome Le Banner are also a part of the field. Along with numerous other fighters that are chomping at the bit to just make a name for themselves around the world.

Signings like these have already given this fledgling promotion a special aura surrounding it. Whether that pans out remains to be seen, but we at Blurcat are hoping it makes an impact for the sports sake. An impact that will be felt for the years to come.

To get everyone else ready, here is our exclusive breakdown of the card:

Asashoryu (debut/Mongolia) x Jerome Le Banner (3-2-1/France)

In the main event of the evening, two megastars in the country of Japan will be face to face in front of what should be a sold out, electrifying crowd.

This fight is also as mysterious as it can get. Le Banner has had MMA experience but has never been a long-time fixture in the sport. While his incredible experience in the sport of kickboxing can certainly carry over, his unknown ability to withstand high level grappling is uncertain. Especially considering his opponent is one of the greatest Sumo Rikishi's of all-time.

What Le Banner certainly lacks in grappling experience, the same exact can be said with Asashoryu and his ability to throw and take strikes. In reality, this fight could be an absolute pick 'em.

The prediction comes down to wear the fight begins and that's in the stand-up. It's unknown whether Asashoryu can avoid the massive punching power of Le Banner and get this fight to the ground. With the MMA experience on the side of Le Banner, we'll go with the safe pick and take Le Banner by TKO within the first round.

Satoshi Ishii (6-2-1/Japan) x Levan Razmadze (5-0/Georgia)
The co-main event of the evening serves as showcase bout for the Japanese fans, but also a highly intriguing bout for everyone else who will be watching.

Both fighters have the same discipline, one a world champion and the other, a continental champion. All similarities end there, as Ishii began his career being thrown to the wolves as Razmadze slowly, yet steadily built his MMA resume.

While Ishii had a rough start to his career, with a very tough decision loss to fellow Olympic gold medalist Hidehiko Yoshida, you could say he has turned things around. While he still has suffered setbacks (a loss to Fedor and an original win turning into a NC, due to refusing to heed to the referees orders) and his fighting style hasn't won him many fans, his background is certainly gaining him impressive victories on paper. Considering he's still relatively new at the sport; wins against Filho, Sylvia, Le Banner, and even Minowaman are certainly victories that are worth getting your hopes up. If he begins to take the sport more seriously, he could be a threat to anyone in the future.

Razmadze is a fighter that certainly shares the same kind of experience on paper, although he doesn't have nearly as much name fighters on his resume. After his fourth match, he completely wrecked DEEP's megaton division and was quickly a force, with the vast majority of his fights ending in the first round. Although he's only five fights into his career, he has overmatched everyone that he has faced so far. Whether that will help or hinder him in his upcoming fight remains to be seen.

What this fight boils down to is also experience, in my opinion. With the high level of opposition that Ishii has faced, this certainly shouldn't be too much of a proverbial wall to climb. Ishii has proven he can beat larger opponents against Tim Sylvia, although his grappling credentials aren't near the level of Razmadze's. With Ishii's superior judo and better striking, he should be able to take an unanimous decision.

Guram Gugenishvili (11-2/Georgia) x Maro Perak (22-3-1/Croatia)

Guram was once labeled as a fighter to keep an eye on with imposing size and tenacious grappling but now, he has dropped two fights in a row to the previously unassuming Kenny Garner. While the potential is still there, he has yet to show an improvement on his cardio and could really afford to clean up his skillset, as he sloppily throws himself into bad positions with reckless abandon.

His opponent, Maro Perak, would gladly take advantage of that type of fighter. Equally, if not more, imposing and much more experienced, Perak is the exact fighter that the Guram of past would greatly struggle with. With his combination of hulk strength and strong grappling, Guram has a lot to work on and improve to pull out a victory.

Until the weigh-in, we won't know what kind of Guram will show up. If he shows up in great shape, he'll definitely have a chance at victory. As of right now, Perak just outguns Guram in nearly every aspect of the game. Perak by ground and pound in the first.

Liu Deli (debut/China) x Mijain Lopez (debut/Cuba)

Arguably, the second most anticipated fight of the night. Come fight night, when these two enter the ring, the closest resemblance of this fight will be a kaiju battle. What they lack in experience will surely be made up for in intrigue and entertainment.

The highly decorated Cuban wrestler, Mijain Lopez is as threatening as you could possibly look. Standing at 6'5 and 245 lbs of pure muscle, on looks alone he could be a major threat to anyone in this field. When you factor in his success at such a high level in wrestling and the fact that the Cuban National Team has a penchance at cross-training all their athletes, he has a realistic chance at winning the whole thing.

Liu Deli first gained notoriety when Sengoku was rumored to have signed him to a contract back in 2009, until he decided to start training for the 2012 Olympics instead. What caught everyone's eye was not even his credentials (being an Asian Champion in wrestling is impressive but not nearly as important as being an Olympian or even European champion) but his monstrous figure. The tallest fighter in the whole grand prix, standing at 6'9, he has already gained a cult following. This is the type of fighter the Japanese love, regardless of nationality.

A finish looks unlikely for both fighters, but with Lopez's high level wrestling and general understanding of boxing, he looks to be the favorite to move on to the Quarterfinals in this bout

Jared Rosholt (4-1/USA) x Yusuke Kawaguchi (13-6/Japan)

Brother of fellow PURE signee Jake Rosholt, Jared Rosholt comes into the grand prix looking to make a huge name for himself. While receiving a setback in his most recent fight, he has shown great skill for his limited experience and earned every bit of hype he got until his first loss. While he can certainly fall back on his quality wrestling, he'll definitely have to improve as the grand prix goes on.

The inaugural DEEP Megaton champion, Yusuke Kawaguchi looks to bounce back from the bumpy ride he has been on in the last two years. After a string of entertaining victories, many people believed Kawaguchi to be the first legit Japanese heavyweight since Tsuyoshi Kosaka and Hidehiko Yoshida. Since then, he has struggled with many of the larger heavyweights and squeaked out a contentious decision win against James Thompson. With recent results, many people feel as if he belongs at a lower weight class, even a move to 185 wouldn't be surprising.

The general consenus believes that Kawaguchi was only included to appease further to the Japanese crowd in attendance, otherwise he doesn't stand much of a chance against the much larger Rosholt. A first round submission finish for Rosholt looks highly likely.

Shamil Abdurahimov (13-2/Dagestan) x David Oliva (6-1/USA)

Until his recent upset loss to Tony Lopez, Shamil Abdurahimov had many people projecting him to be the next big thing at Heavyweight. In only his eleventh fight, he had an incredibly impressive decision victory over long time veteran Jeff Monson, which surprised many as Abdurahimov was a relatively unknown fighter at the time. He became ADFC HW Champion just two fights later. Although the Lopez loss set him back, many feel as if he still has potential to be a great heavyweight and some are even picking him to win this tournament.

David Oliva quietly strung together a nice record in local shows in America and surprisingly won the KSW Heavyweight tournament in Poland. His career was put on hold due to a serious injury and missed a year of competition, unfortunately. Since then he has went 1-1, a loss to Polish prospect Karol Bedorf. Given time, he could still turn into a solid heavyweight in the near future.

While Oliva is no one to overlook, Abdurahimov will be fighting with a chip on his shoulder, which won't bode well for many fighters in this field. Abdurahimov should rightfully be the favorite but Oliva will not be an easy guy to finish. The pick is for Abdurahimov to win by decision.

Sokoudjou (13-10/Cameroon) x Stav Economou (14-2-1/England)

Very familiar to JMMA, Sokoudjou will be looking to revitalize his career with a move to heavyweight. Always suffering from poor cardio, the move aims to get rid of the tough weight cut in hopes of alleviating that problem. Power seems to not be a problem with the move but how he'll handle the grappling aspect of it is unknown as of now. While not a favorite by any means, a run to the championship isn't out of the question at all.

Stav Economou has been one of the best British heavyweights in the last decade. His place in the grand prix serves as his first taste at the grand stage of MMA. His looks are deceiving, as looks to be fairly out of shape and better suited for a move to 205 or 185, he has shown knockout power at his current weight class and isn't completely lost at grappling. His one obvious weakness seems to be his inability to cope with larger heavyweights, something he won't necessarily have to worry about in his upcoming fight.

This fight could honestly go either way. Sokoudjou has shown great talent in the past but has only fought outside of 205 twice, going 1-1, the sole loss coming to Abdurahimov. Economou has had great success at HW but it's unsure how he'll perform under the bright lights of PURE. If there was a choice to be made, Sokoudjou will be our pick by eventual knockout in our surprise of the night.

Todd Duffee (8-2/USA) x Vitaly Minakov (10-0/Russia)

The opening bout of the night is certainly worthy of main eventing lower scale cards, therefore showing how seriously PURE is taking their first go around. The New Breed Todd Duffee looks to realize his potential and become champion but his first opponent will be the upcoming and extremely tough Vitaly Minakov, who some have labeled unfairly as the next Fedor Emelianenko.

Duffee has a great mix of strong wrestling and devastating power and looked to have been building his way up to a potential title fight, until his losses to Russow (a fight he was dominating) and against Overeem, who completely outclassed him. While not nearly as active as he once was before his Overeem loss, in what fights he has taken, he has shown the same kind of skillset that lead many to think he was a future champion.

Minakov might be the biggest surprise in the whole grand prix. High level sambo and absolutely vicious striking, he'll be a tough fight for anyone. The only thing holding him back currently is his low level of opposition, which has handily defeated like he was supposed to.

A true toss up of a fight. Duffee has shown a relatively weak chin and Minakov packs one hell of a punch. Minakov has shown the an affinity towards getting sloppy with his strikes, which could ultimately cost him against someone that has as much power that Duffee contains. We'll take Duffee by late knockout in an extremely close fight.

wekka · February 2, 2013

PURE Fighting Championships have reached fifteen card agreement with numerous sponsors

PURE have made a formal announcement on their website on coming to agreement with major Japanese sponsors for the length of PURE's Championship Grand Prix. Starting with the first show, these following adverts will be plastered on the ring canvas and turnbuckles:

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http://siliconangle.com/files/2011/05/Fujitsu-Logo-web.jpg

http://www.spr1.ch/files/images/articles/big/b8d2cc076b4b95da7ec2d2ce5c1aea75.jpeg?id=214&article_id=41

http://medialib.computerandvideogames.com/ngamer/2012/12/Square-Enix-logo.jpg

wekka · February 8, 2013

PURE Fighting Championships Finalize Grand Prix Roster, Preparing for Weigh-In's Tomorrow

With the weigh-in's looming in under a day for the much anticipated Heavyweight Grand Prix Opening Round, PURE made some changes to their other Grand Prix fields in a separate announcement to keep attention firmly placed on the upcoming event this upcoming weekend. The changes are as followed:

*Tim Williams has dropped out of the MWGP due to wanting to further his fight career in North America with hopes of joining the UFC instead. His replacement will be Hiroshi Izumi, who's planning on making a permanent drop to 185 afterwards.

*Claudio Henrique da Silva has also withdrawn his name from the MWGP due to not wanting to be tied down to such a strict format for the next two years. Jack Marshman has stepped in and will be Ryuta Sakurai's new opponent.

*Rosen Dimitrov has suffered a severe injury in training that will sideline him for most of the year, therefore making his appearance at the WWGP highly unlikely. It is unknown whether he will be on any future PURE cards. UFC veteran Brian Foster has taken his place, a signing that has PURE excited.

*Takasuke Kume has removed himself from the LWGP with aspirations to fight outside of Japan for the immediate future. He has said to have been highly interested in a spot in the UFC. His replacement will be former Japanese Olympian, Katsuhiko Nagata.

*Remigijus Morkevicius has decided to remain retired as he feels like it wouldn't be fair to the fans to see him not nearly as motivated as he was during his days in ZST and HERO*s. Former Shooto Champ Lion Takeshi has risen to the occasion and replaced him in his fight with Chris Horodecki.

*Martin Buschkamp has been unable to obtain a visa and will not be able to participate in the FWGP, alongside Morkevicius. Taiki Tsuchiya has been talked out of his MMA sabbatical and will return to action against Renato Carneiro.

PURE has stated that they are incredibly disappointed that they were not able to deliver on the fights they promised beforehand but feel as if the replacements are very worthy and will still make for excellent fights.

Additionally, PURE has announced that the month of April will hold both the MWGP and WWGP, in hopes of completing the Opening Round and Quarterfinals of each Grand Prix by the turn of the new year.

Weigh-in coverage will be live tomorrow, as we'll bring you updates as soon as they happen.

wekka · February 8, 2013

PURE Fighting Championships Heavyweight Grand Prix Official Weigh-In's and Press Conference

Live from the Grand Hyatt in Roppongi Hills, PURE held the official weign-in's and press conference for tomorrow night's Heavyweight Grand Prix. From the look of things, it appears to be a huge field as numerous competitors weighed in over the usual 260 weight limit, a limit that PURE does not implement.

Weigh-in results:

Jerome Le Banner (260 lbs) x Asashoryu (326 lbs)

Levan Razmadze (260 lbs) x Satoshi Ishii (230 lbs)

Maro Perak (215 lbs) x Guram Gugenishvili (250 lbs)

Liu Deli (261 lbs) x Mijain Lopez (260 lbs)

Jared Rosholt (259 lbs) x Yusuke Kawaguchi (230 lbs)

David Oliva (225 lbs) x Shamil Abdurahimov (231 lbs)

Stav Economou (250 lbs) x Sokoudjou (210 lbs)

Vitaly Minakov (230 lbs) x Todd Duffee (260 lbs)

Afterwards, all fighters were available for comment in the official press conference, as President Akira Maeda moderated things. Some of the notable comments from each fighter will conclude this article:

Jerome Le Banner:
"It's an honor to main event such a momentous event and return to my second home and show them the best i've ever had to offer in this sport.

"Asashoryu feels as if he is coming into this fight at an advantage. I've got something to tell him, he better not underrate me. Has he ever even been punched in the face by a professional fighter? You best believe when I get the chance, i'll be aiming to put my fist through his skull."

Asashoryu:
"My transition to MMA has been a long time coming. The time has never felt right beforehand but I feel like i'm in my prime in terms of athleticism. I also feel as I offer a lot to the sport and honestly believe I can make waves felt throughout the world"

"Jerome has a big mouth. I might have never fought professionally but I can handle the heat of battle. He has no grappling and I think i'm much more dangerous than any of his fists will ever be. I'm not doing this for money, i'm doing this to prove I am best. It's not disrespect if you can back it up"

Satoshi Ishii:
"I think i've finally established the basics of MMA. I'm confident in my striking now and my Judo is untouchable. I believe that tomorrow night will truly begin my road to championship glory"

"I have no worries with Levan. He's a great fighter but I don't think he's ready for someone as good as me. I'm still young, I haven't even hit my prime in the sport, and I have fought some of the biggest names to have ever graced the sport. I started off slow but I think the experience of those losses will carry me to even greater things. I'm looking forward to showing the Japanese crowd the best Ishii possible. I will make my people proud."

Levan Razmadze:
"I have been looking forward to showcasing my abilities on larger scale. I might have built my career slowly but I felt it was more beneficial that way. You can't achieve success without putting yourself in successful situations. I've have dispatched everyone I have ever faced and while I will certainly have a step up in competition, I believe I will transition seamlessly and people will soon know my name"

"Satoshi is certainly a better judoka than I am but I know how to finish fights. I will not be a stepping stone."

Guram Gugenisvili:
" I haven't fought to my fullest capability as of late. I'd rather not make excuses but these numerous injuries have truly affected my performance. As of now, I feel like i'm in the best shape i've ever been in. My cardio has been a hindrance, so i've been training heavily to fix that. I've also worked on refining my grappling as i've been a bit sloppy and seem to have forgotten the basics in the middle of battle. I have much to prove and will show my tru potential tomorrow night"

Maro Perak:
"I've never been too impressed with Guram. Pure hype job. I believe that i'm better in all aspects of MMA and I am looking forward to slowly breaking his will tomorrow night"

"I recently ventured in Light Heavyweight, which is why i'm at my lowest weight ever in a Heavyweight bout. I personally feel as the weight advantage is nothing to me. I have fought stronger people before and I believe my skills will carry me to victory."

Mijain Lopez:
" I have already proven to be the best Greco-Roman wrestler in the world and done all I could've ever dreamed of in the sport of wrestling. I need a challenge of a new kind and I feel as if MMA is perfect for me."

"I cannot exude cockiness. I have no achievements in this sport, so I come here to earn respect the old fashioned way. I want to be the greatest mixed martial artist of all time by the time my career is over and I will do anything I can to achieve that."

Liu Deli:
" To be honest, I do feel a bit nervous, but I think that is a good thing. I don't want to be inhuman, I don't want to be a cold blooded killer. The pain and feelings will teach me. I still have a lot to learn but I've been training as hard as my body will allow me. I don't want to be a special attraction, I want to be a legitimate mixed martial artist."

Jared Rosholt:
" It's going to be a great experience for me fighting in front of a large crowd and a wholly new country. I've never been beyond the United States in my life and i'm anticipating showing my skills to a whole new crowd."

"I am really confident in tomorrow's fight. I don't mean any disrespect, but I honestly think i'm going to walk through Kawaguchi. I will not stop pressuring him the whole fight."

Yusuke Kawaguchi:
" I've been on a bit of a cold streak, not going to lie. I want to show people that i'm still capable of being the best Japanese Heavyweight in the world today. The true Megaton champion is ready to return."

"I have struggles with larger opponents but i've been working on that by training outside of Japan for the last six months. I like to think i'm a jack of all trades and believe I will frustrate Rosholt enough to take advantage of a mistake, as much of a mistake as he's making with overlooking me."

Shamil Abdurahimov:

"I haven't been as ring active as I would like to be but this time away hasn't been wasted as i've spent this whole time in camp and bettering myself as a fighter. The Tony Lopez fight taught me a lot, as i've had a bit of a big head going into that fight but i'd like to thank him for pushing me into making myself a better fighter."

"David Oliva isn't a spectacular opponent but he's a very tough opponent. I'm looking at every fight as a championship fight as everyone in this field has a good chance at being the victor. I must be on top of my game."

David Oliva:
"The injury that occurred a year and half back really stunted my growth as a fighter. I'm not as young as i'd like to be, so all this time spent away and in the ring is very precious to me. I still felt a bit rusty against Bedorf but I think i'm back to the shape I was in when I won the KSW Grand Prix."

"I respect Shamil a great deal. He's got a lot of potential and will make for not only a great fight but a great challenge for me. As much as I respect him, I will prevail and continue on the path I was on before my injury."

Sokoudjou:
" It's been a pleasure to return to Japan. It's the place that made me known worldwide. Unfortunately, it's also the place that i've also felt the lowest in my career. I am at the point of redemption. A move to heavyweight is exactly what I think I need to revitalize my career."

"I'm not too worried about the transition to heavyweight. My only loss at this weight was to a very tough Abdurahimov. Now, my cardio seems to be better and I have still retained my power. I think i'll be a threat for anyone in this tournament."

Stav Economou:
"Fighting in the UK all this time has really allowed me to refine my skills and to test my might against the best of what England had to offer. Now I feel it is time for me to test myself against the best in the world. I am looking forward to making the most out of this opportunity that PURE has given me."

"Sokoudjou is a good fighter but is extremely inconsistent. I always fight at my best, win or lose. This is something he will learn the most difficult way possible, by way of knockout."

Todd Duffee:
"The last time I was here, I was put to sleep. I'm here this weekend to erase all memory of that and doubts. I'm here to prove i'm heads above the rest. I will aim to finish guys with brutality and finesse. I want to shut these internet haters up permanently. The Todd Duffee you will see tomorrow will be a force to be reckoned with."

"Vitaly is a great talent and has many years ahead of him. He's got great finishing ability and a grappling game that is somewhat unseen, at least from what i've seen from him. Unfortunately for him, the road stops soon."

Vitaly Minakov:
"I am not well known around the world, but soon everyone will know who I am. I've come here to be a dominant champion and no one will stand in my way. I'm not overlooking anyone, furthest from it in actuality, but no one but myself knows all that i'm capable of and I feel like they haven't even seen a quarter of what I have shown."

"Todd Duffee. Nothing but respect for his ability as a fighter. As a person, i'm not a huge fan of him. I will send him back to America a broken man. I've got this fire inside of me that will not accept defeat in any capacity. I will win for Russia and myself."

Afterwards, PURE announced that tomorrow night's show will utilize Saitama Super Arena in it's basic form, instead of the expanded set-up. They are expecting a sold out crowd.

wekka · February 9, 2013

PURE Fighting Championships I: Heavyweight Grand Prix Opening Round

@ Saitama Super Arena (20,929)

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The Saitama Super Arena is already buzzing for a huge night in JMMA, as the Heavyweight Grand Prix begins. The arena is still filling up as 20,000 plus are anticipating a card full of big debut and great fights. The lights are dimmed and WE ARE NOW UNDERWAY WITH THE OPENING CEREMONY!

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"Ladies and Gentleman! Welcome to the Saitama Super Arena for PURE Fighting Championships I: Heavyweight Grand Prix Opening Round!"

"Tonight, sixteen fighters will enter the ring, all with aspirations to prove to themselves and the rest of the world that they are the best fighter in the fight universe"

"This is sport. This is beauty. This is excellence. This is art. This is pain. This is glory. THIS. IS. PURE."

"Introducing first, from Russia, VIIITAAAALLLY MIIIIIIIINAKOVVV"

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"His opponent, from the United States, TODDDDDD DUFFFFEEEEEE"

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"Second bout. From England by way of Cyprus, STAAAAAAV ECONOOOMOUUUU"

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"From Cameroon, SOOOKOOOUDJOUUUUU"

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"Third bout. From the United States, DAAAVID OOOLLLIIIVAAAA"

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"From Russia, SHAAAMIILLLL ABDURAAHIIIIMOV"

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"Fourth bout. From the United States, JAARRREDDD ROOOOSHOLT"

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"From JAPAN, YUUUUSUKE KAWAAAGUUUUCHI"

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"Fifth bout. From China, LIIUUUUUU DELLLIIIII"

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"From Cuba, MIIJAIIINNN LOOOOOPEZZZ"

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"Sixth bout. From Croatia, MARROOOO PEEERRAKKKK"

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"From Georgia, GUUURAAMMMM GUGENISHVIIIIILIII"

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"Seventh bout. From Georgia, LEEEVAAANNN RAZZZMAAAADZEE"

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"From JAPAN, SAAATTOOOOSHI IIIISHHIIIIII"

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"MAIN EVENT. From France, JEROOOMMEE LE BAANNNNERRRR"

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"From Japan by way of Mongolia, ASAAASHOOOORYUUUUU"

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Match One: Vitaly Minakov x Todd Duffee

Round 1:
>And here we go!
>Duffee avoids a quick jab and hits a nice left hand.
>A nicely executed one-two combination sets up a takedown attempt from Duffee.
>He gets a big takedown and he ends up in half guard.
>Duffee throws a few right hands, but is mainly trying to catch his breath.
>Duffee fires away with right hands, and Minakov is stung by several big shots.
>In half guard, Duffee begins working to get side control.
>He passes half guard fairly easily, getting to side control.
>Looking to catch his breath, Duffee is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body.
>Duffee blocks an attempt to pull guard.
>Duffee starts trying to work to go from side control to mount.
>He does it, and has the mount on Minakov.
>Duffee unloads with big elbows from the mount, but Minakov is able to deal with most of them.
>Duffee unloads with big elbows from the mount, but Minakov is able to deal with most of them.
>Duffee pounds away from the mount with elbows, but is unable to land many clean shots on Minakov.
>Duffee pounds away from the mount with elbows, but Minakov covers up and defends them well.
>Minakov tries a sweep from the bottom of the mount, but gets rolled and Duffee has his back!
>Duffee attempts an armbar.
>Duffee rolls to try and get the armbar, but Minakov pulls free and easily secures side control.
>Minakov attempts to armbar Duffee from side control.
>Duffee defends himself well and is in no danger.
>Duffee attempts to get some separation in order to try to stand, but can't.
>We've now passed the halfway mark in this round.
>Minakov tries to ensnare Duffee in an arm triangle.
>Duffee stops Minakov from applying it.
>Todd Duffee is looking really tired.
>Duffee attempts to get some separation in order to try to stand, but can't.
>Minakov attempts to roll Duffee slightly and take his back.
>He rolls Duffee over a little...and slips behind to take the back!
>Minakov attempts to set up an armbar on Duffee from the back.
>Minakov rolls onto his back to try and get the armbar, but Duffee pulls free and gets side control.
>Duffee tries to lock Minakov in an arm triangle.
>Minakov defends himself well and is in no danger.
>Duffee blocks Minakov as he tries a transition to guard.
>Duffee throws some small strikes, but is clearly just taking a moment to try and catch his breath.
>Duffee throws a few right hands, but is mainly trying to catch his breath.
>Duffee fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves.
>Minakov tries to sweep Duffee but can't.
>We're into the final minute of the round.
>The lack of progress forces the referee to stand the fighters back up.
>Minakov hits a left jab.
>Minakov is looking to turn this into a wrestling match, and is getting in closer to Duffee.
>Duffee drops down to try and catch him by surprise with a single leg attempt, but it is blocked.
>Todd Duffee seems to be fighting against exhaustion.
>Time expires and we come to the end of round one.

Round Two:
>There's the bell and round number two begins!
>Duffee counters a couple of wild swings by hitting a stinging left jab.
>Minakov comes in swinging wildly, using the strikes as cover so that he can shoot in.
>Minakov can't get the takedown, Duffee defends it well and pulls them into a clinch.
>Duffee tries to wrestle Minakov backward and up against the ropes.
>Duffee achieves it, pinning Minakov to the ropes.
>Todd Duffee looks like he is almost out on his feet with exhaustion.
>Showing his ability to exert control, Duffee smothers Minakov up against the ropes for a minute or so, wearing him down with occasional sharp punches to the ribs.
>Minakov takes a knee strike to the inside of his own knee.
>Showing his ability to exert control, Duffee smothers Minakov up against the ropes for about a minute.
>With the fight having been stuck against the ropes for a lengthy period of time, the referee restarts them back in the center.
>Moving in closer, Minakov looks like he may want to wrestle Duffee.
>Duffee seems happy to grapple with Minakov.
>Using his wrestling skills, Minakov is trying to push Duffee up against the ropes.
>Minakov can't do it though, and Duffee gets a more dominant position in the grapple instead.
>Duffee is trying to push Minakov so that his back is up against the ropes.
>Minakov ends up backed against the ropes.
>Duffee shows his grappling ability by pinning Minakov up against the ropes and keeps him there for about sixty seconds.
>Vitaly Minakov looks very tired out there.
>We go past the halfway point of this round.
>Duffee exerts total control, keeping Minakov smothered against the ropes for sixty seconds or so.
>Duffee hits a knee strike to the thigh.
>Unable to break free, Minakov is smothered up against the ropes, taking short blows to the body, for about sixty seconds.
>With the fight having been stuck against the ropes for a lengthy period of time, the referee restarts them back in the center.
>Minakov steps in but an exchange of strikes goes nowhere.
>Time slips away as Duffee doesn't press Minakov, allowing him to circle.
>Minakov chooses to move forward and try to take Duffee down.
>The takedown is blocked, and the sprawl allows Duffee to wrestle Minakov down to the ground instead! Minakov pulls half guard.
>Duffee throws a few right hands as he takes a moment to plan ahead.
>There's under a minute left in this round.
>Duffee throws some small strikes, but is clearly just taking a moment to try and catch his breath.
>Duffee tries to stand up, but can't get free of half guard.
>Minakov attempts to secure an arm.
>A kimura is locked in tight, Duffee has his arm bent at a terrible angle!
>Minakov loses the hold! Somehow Duffee got his arm free. That was incredibly close to a finish though.
>Vitaly Minakov seems to be fighting against exhaustion.
>The fight comes to an end as the time limit expires.

>The official decisions are being reported now.
>All three judges have given the victory to Duffee.
>'The Irish Car Bomb' Todd Duffee wins by unanimous decision!
>Official Result: 'The Irish Car Bomb' Todd Duffee defeats Vitaly Minakov (Unanimous Decision in 10:00 of round 2). The match was rated as being Average.

Match Two: Stav Economou x Sokoudjou

Round One:
>And here we go!
>After a one-two combination narrowly misses, Economou is able to strike back with a crisp jab.
>A jab doesn't find its intended target, allowing Sokoudjou to fire back with a crisp left hand punch.
>A left hand misses, allowing Sokoudjou to counter with a solid left jab.
>Sokoudjou is looking to get in close and strike from the pocket.
>Sokoudjou is now standing in the pocket.
>Economou sees a spinning kick coming a mile away and simply steps in and hits a jab.
>Sokoudjou uses head movement to dodge a jab, and counters with a crisp left hook to the body.
>Slipping past a left jab, Sokoudjou hits a right hook to the body.
>Using good head movement, Economou slips past a tight combination and hits a nice left.
>Sokoudjou uses a nice left jab from the pocket.
>Sokoudjou throws a flurry of punches but Economou covers up and takes them easily.
>Not comfortable in the pocket, Sokoudjou steps back and creates some space.
>Sokoudjou avoids a jab and scores with a left.
>Sokoudjou slips past a left jab and counters with a right body kick.
>After a one-two combination narrowly misses, Economou is able to strike back with a crisp jab.
>We go past the halfway point of this round.
>Sokoudjou comes in closer, looking to attack from the pocket.
>Sokoudjou moves into the pocket.
>From the pocket, Economou sees a body kick coming and moves forward to counter-strike with a nice jab.
>Sokoudjou catches Economou with a crisp jab from the pocket.
>Using head movement, Sokoudjou slips past a left jab and counters with a left jab to the cheek.
>Economou dodges a body kick and returns fire with a barrage of huge right hands, trapping Sokoudjou against the ropes!
>Sokoudjou collapses to the ground and is still getting pounded on!
>The referee pulls Economou away, stopping the match!

>The winner, by TKO, is Stav 'Crazy Bear' Economou!
>Official Result: Stav 'Crazy Bear' Economou defeats 'The African Assassin' Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou (TKO (Strikes) in 6:12 of round 1). The match was rated as being Fantastic.

Match Three: David Oliva x Shamil Abdurahimov:

Round One:
>Round one begins!
>Abdurahimov counters an errant left jab with a sharp kick to the shin.
>Abdurahimov tries for a right body kick but Oliva moves out of range.
>Abdurahimov throws a leg kick but Oliva avoids it.
>Oliva moves out of range of a flurry of punches.
>Oliva steps back to avoid a leg kick.
>Oliva moves out of range of a flurry of punches.
>Abdurahimov steps in but an exchange of strikes goes nowhere.
>Oliva doesn't let Abdurahimov settle, stepping in closer to impose himself.
>Moving in closer, Oliva looks like he may want to wrestle Abdurahimov.
>Not wanting to grapple, Abdurahimov uses strikes to keep Oliva at a distance.
>Oliva throws a couple of jabs, then chooses to shoot in on Abdurahimov.
>Oliva doesn't get the takedown, Abdurahimov saw it coming and was equal to it.
>Abdurahimov bobs and weaves.
>Oliva steps in to put some pressure on.
>Moving in closer, Oliva looks like he may want to wrestle Abdurahimov.
>Abdurahimov is pulled into a grapple.
>We move into the second half of this round.
>Oliva is looking to muscle Abdurahimov back against the ropes.
>Abdurahimov ends up backed against the ropes.
>With the ropes trapping Abdurahimov, Oliva gets the underhooks in and looks for a takedown.
>Abdurahimov cannot stop being lifted up and blasted with a Greco-Roman slam, he is left under side control!
>Oliva is trying to move from side control to mount.
>Oliva shows his ground skills and slips to mount.
>Oliva pounds away from the mount, and Abdurahimov is in serious trouble!
>Oliva unloads with big punches from the mount, but Abdurahimov is able to deal with most of them.
>Oliva tries to pound on Abdurahimov with elbows, but all the blows are comfortably dealt with.
>Oliva counters an attempt by Abdurahimov to move him from mount by taking his back!
>Oliva gets both hooks in, and is now in a really dominant position.
>Oliva, with both hooks fully in, tries to get the rear naked choke applied.
>Abdurahimov doesn't allow the rear naked choke to be applied.
>Abdurahimov struggles against Oliva but cannot get himself free from the hooks.
>With both hooks in and therefore great control of the body, Oliva tries to finish Abdurahimov off with a rear naked choke.
>Abdurahimov stops Oliva from getting his arm under the chin and completing the choke.
>Shamil Abdurahimov doesn't look like he has much left in the tank.
>Oliva keeps both hooks, despite Abdurahimov trying to pull them apart.
>There's under a minute left in this round.
>With both hooks in, Oliva tries to flatten Abdurahimov out for the rear naked choke.
>Abdurahimov stops Oliva from getting his arm under the chin and completing the choke.
>Abdurahimov struggles against Oliva but cannot get himself free from the hooks.
>With both hooks in, Oliva tries to flatten Abdurahimov out for the rear naked choke.
>Abdurahimov stops Oliva from getting his arm under the chin and completing the choke.
>David Oliva doesn't look like he has much left in the tank.
>The time is up, and that's the end of round one.

Round Two:
>Round two begins!
>From what we could hear of his corner, it sounds like Oliva has been instructed to try and get Abdurahimov to the floor in this round.
>Abdurahimov slips past a left jab and fires back with a nice left hand.
>Abdurahimov counters a left jab by hitting a barrage of big right hands!
>Shamil Abdurahimov looks like he is on the verge of exhaustion.
>Oliva checks a low kick.
>Oliva, standing at close range, catches a body kick and goes for a takedown, getting it! Abdurahimov manages to pull guard.
>Oliva attempts to pass guard and gain a better position.
>Oliva passes to half guard.
>Oliva tries to lock Abdurahimov into an arm triangle.
>Abdurahimov stops Oliva from applying it.
>Abdurahimov tries a sweep from the bottom of half guard, but doesn't budge Oliva.
>Oliva reaches over and tries to lock Abdurahimov in an americana.
>Abdurahimov defends it well.
>Shamil Abdurahimov looks like he is completely out of gas.
>Abdurahimov tries to sweep Oliva but doesn't get anywhere.
>Oliva pounds away from half guard, and Abdurahimov struggles to deal with them.
>David Oliva looks very, very tired.
>In half guard, Oliva begins working to get side control.
>He gets past half guard, gaining side control.
>We've now passed the halfway mark in this round.
>Oliva attempts the mount.
>Oliva mounts Abdurahimov.
>Oliva unloads with big elbows from the mount, but Abdurahimov is able to deal with most of them.
>Oliva unloads with big elbows from the mount, but Abdurahimov is able to deal with most of them.
>David Oliva looks like he is almost out on his feet with exhaustion.
>Oliva pounds away from the mount with elbows, but is unable to land many clean shots on Abdurahimov.
>Oliva pounds away on Abdurahimov with elbows, but few of the shots lands clean.
>Oliva unloads with big punches from the mount, but Abdurahimov is able to deal with most of them.
>Oliva pounds away from the mount, but is unable to land many clean shots on Abdurahimov.
>Oliva pounds away on Abdurahimov, but few of the shots lands clean.
>Oliva fires away with big punches, but Abdurahimov covers up and doesn't take any undue damage.
>Oliva blocks an attempt to move him from mount.
>Oliva pounds away from the mount, but Abdurahimov covers up and defends them well.
>Oliva blocks an attempt to move him from mount.
>We have one minute of the round remaining.
>Oliva unloads with some big punches, but Abdurahimov deals with them comfortably.
>Oliva counters an attempt by Abdurahimov to move him from mount by taking his back!
>Abdurahimov is in increasing trouble, as Oliva gets both hooks in.
>Oliva attempts to complete a rear naked choke, having both hooks fully in.
>Abdurahimov fights off the rear naked choke attempt.
>Time runs out and that's the end of the fight.

>The judges have given their decisions, which are about to be announced.
>All three judges give the result in favour of Oliva.
>Oliva wins by unanimous decision!
>Official Result: David 'The Mayan Assassin' Oliva defeats Shamil Abdurahimov (Unanimous Decision in 10:00 of round 2). The match was rated as being Decent.

Match Four: Jared Rosholt x Yusuke Kawaguchi

Round One:
>And here we go!
>Rosholt throws a left jab but Kawaguchi avoids it.
>Kawaguchi swings with a couple of wild punches, then chooses to shoot in on Rosholt.
>Rosholt sprawls, stopping the takedown and forcing Kawaguchi down to the ground into a type of turtle position.
>Rosholt hits a devastating knee strike to the side of the head of the turtled Kawaguchi!
>Rolled over from turtle position Kawaguchi is left caught in side control.
>Rosholt is trying to move from side control to mount.
>Rosholt shows his ground skills and slips to mount.
>Rosholt starts hammering away at Kawaguchi with punches.
>Unless he finds a way out of this position soon, Kawaguchi is going to lose this fight!
>With Kawaguchi stuck and taking a pounding, the referee has to stop the match!

>The winner, by TKO; Jared Rosholt!
>Official Result: Jared Rosholt defeats Yusuke Kawaguchi (TKO (Strikes) in 2:35 of round 1). The match was rated as being Great.

Match Five: Liu Deli x Mijain Lopez

Round One:
>Round one begins!
>There's a short stalemate as both fighters advance and throw strikes, but neither hits.
>In close proximity from the strikes they threw, they fall into a messy clinch.
>Mijain Lopez looks to scoop his opponent up for a slam.
>Mijain Lopez gets it! Liu Deli manages to pull guard upon impact.
>Mijain Lopez attempts to pass guard and gain a better position.
>He can't get free of the guard.
>Liu Deli smothers Mijain Lopez with close control, stopping him from posturing up.
>Mijain Lopez attempts to pass guard and gain a better position.
>Liu Deli is ready for the attempt though, and keeps Mijain Lopez firmly in guard.
>Liu Deli grabs Mijain Lopez and draws him in close, smothering him.
>Mijain Lopez lies on top of Liu Deli, basically smothering him.
>With no progress being made, the referee brings the fighters back to their feet.
>Liu Deli shoots in, looking for a takedown.
>The takedown is unsuccessful, Mijain Lopez blocked Liu Deli.
>Mijain Lopez looks like he might be trying to get in close and wrestle with Liu Deli.
>Liu Deli tries to counter with a takedown, but Mijain Lopez defended it well.
>We move into the second half of this round.
>A straight right from Liu Deli fails to land.
>Mijain Lopez steps in closer to force the issue.
>Mijain Lopez looks to be trying to close the distance between them.
>Liu Deli tries to single leg Mijain Lopez as he moves forward, but he is too quick to step away.
>Mijain Lopez uses a flurry of lefts and rights to get Liu Deli to cover up, then shoots in looking for a takedown.
>The takedown is completed, it was a single leg and Liu Deli is left on his back pulling guard.
>Mijain Lopez fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves.
>Mijain Lopez gets pulled in tight, stopping him from posturing up or launching any attacks.
>In guard, Mijain Lopez catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body.
>Mijain Lopez attempts to pass guard.
>He can't get free of the guard.
>Liu Deli smothers Mijain Lopez with close control, stopping him from posturing up.
>We have one minute of the round remaining.
>Mijain Lopez throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move.
>Liu Deli gets the double underhooks in and pulls Mijain Lopez close, controlling him well.
>Round one ends as time expires.

Round Two:
>There's the bell for the start of the round!
>Liu Deli throws a right jab but Mijain Lopez avoids it.
>Liu Deli avoids a flurry of punches.
>Mijain Lopez throws out a couple of jabs as a set up, then shoots in for a takedown.
>The takedown is successful, it's a single leg that leaves Liu Deli pulling guard.
>Mijain Lopez lies on top of Liu Deli, basically smothering him.
>Mijain Lopez throws a few right hands to the body.
>Liu Deli smothers Mijain Lopez with close control, stopping him from posturing up.
>In guard, Mijain Lopez catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body.
>Liu Deli grabs Mijain Lopez and draws him in close, smothering him.
>Mijain Lopez fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves.
>Liu Deli gets the double underhooks in and pulls Mijain Lopez close, controlling him well.
>With no progress being made, the referee stands them back up.
>A couple of wild haymakers are used to set up a takedown attempt from Liu Deli.
>Mijain Lopez won't go down, leaving Liu Deli to settle for pushing him up against the ropes.
>Breathing very hard, Liu Deli is looking ragged.
>Liu Deli leaves his head exposed though, and Mijain Lopez is able to push down on the back of it for leverage.
>Pushing down, Mijain Lopez brings Liu Deli down onto all fours and then rolls him over into side control!
>Mijain Lopez fires away with hammering elbows, and Liu Deli is taking powerful shot after powerful shot!
>The referee is forced to jump in and stop the match!

>By TKO, the winner is Mijain Lopez!
>Official Result: Mijain Lopez defeats Liu Deli (TKO (Strikes) in 5:05 of round 2). The match was rated as being Very Poor.

Match Six: Maro Perak x Guram Gugenishvili

Round One:
>The fight begins!
>Gugenishvili throws a left jab but Perak avoids it.
>Gugenishvili is looking to turn this into a wrestling match, and is getting in closer to Perak.
>Gugenishvili grabs Perak and pulls him into a grapple.
>With underhooks giving him solid control over Perak, Gugenishvili looks for a takedown.
>Gugenishvili can't get the takedown, as Perak wrestles his way into a dominant position.
>Perak and Gugenishvili break the grapple and are apart again, circling.
>Gugenishvili misses with an attempted right hook to the body.
>It seems that Perak is happy to let Gugenishvili circle for the moment.
>Gugenishvili comes in closer, looking to wrestle with Perak.
>They start grappling, Perak looks happy to engage Gugenishvili at close quarters.
>Gugenishvili tries to wrestle Perak backward and up against the ropes.
>Gugenishvili achieves it, pinning Perak to the ropes.
>Gugenishvili has worked in the underhooks and looks to take Perak down.
>The takedown doesn't work, Perak blocked it and then turns it so that Gugenishvili is the one against the ropes.
>Perak tries to dirty box Gugenishvili, but finds himself out-wrestled and turned around so that he is the one against the ropes.
>Gugenishvili has gotten underhooks in and is looking to take Perak to the ground.
>Perak stops the takedown attempt, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple and put Gugenishvili against the ropes.
>Perak tries to hit Gugenishvili with a knee strike, but Gugenishvili takes the opportunity to switch it around so that he is in control and Perak is the one backed against the ropes.
>Gugenishvili steps back to achieve some separation from Perak and gets ready to strike.
>Gugenishvili catches Perak with a solid jab.
>Perak gets tagged with a crisp jab.
>Showing good head movement, Perak weaves out of the way of a wild right hand.
>Working from in the pocket, Perak catches Gugenishvili with a solid left jab.
>We go past the halfway point of this round.
>Perak uses a stiff jab.
>Perak throws a left jab but Gugenishvili uses good head movement to make sure it slips by.
>Perak gets tagged with a crisp jab.
>Perak eats a stiff jab.
>Slipping past some wild swings, Perak counters with a stinging jab.
>Gugenishvili takes a stiff jab.
>Gugenishvili uses head movement to avoid a left jab.
>Perak backs away to create some more space.
>Gugenishvili swings wildly to get Perak to cover up, then shoots in looking for a takedown.
>Perak gets taken down by a single leg, and has to pull guard.
>Gugenishvili looks to get past the guard.
>Gugenishvili is too much for Perak, passing guard and gaining side control.
>Breathing very hard, Guram Gugenishvili is looking ragged.
>Gugenishvili fires off a few punches, but they aren't thrown with any great force.
>Gugenishvili tries to lock Perak into an armbar.
>Perak fights off the armbar attempt.
>Gugenishvili blocks an attempt to pull guard.
>We move into the final sixty seconds of this round.
>Gugenishvili throws a few right hands to the body.
>Perak tries to sweep Gugenishvili but can't.
>Time expires and we come to the end of round one.

Round Two:
>We are back underway!
>From what we could hear of his corner, it sounds like Gugenishvili has been instructed to wrestle Perak in this round.
>Perak tries for a left jab but Gugenishvili moves out of range.
>Perak steps in to attack but takes a stiff jab.
>Gugenishvili steps back to avoid a left jab.
>Maro Perak is looking really tired.
>Gugenishvili moves in quickly after a wayward punch and hits two punches.
>Perak circles around Gugenishvili.
>Gugenishvili steps in to put some pressure on.
>Looking tired, Gugenishvili comes in closer, attempting to wrestle with Perak.
>Gugenishvili cannot get close enough to the elusive Perak to grapple.
>Gugenishvili scores with a jab that stops Perak getting too close.
>A drained-looking Gugenishvili tries to close the distance between them.
>He pulls Perak into a grapple.
>Gugenishvili is trying to muscle Perak up against the ropes.
>Perak ends up backed against the ropes.
>From the looks of things, I don't think Maro Perak has much energy left.
>From the looks of things, I don't think Guram Gugenishvili has much energy left.
>Perak is controlled up against the ropes and eats a sharp right to the ear.
>Perak is controlled up against the ropes and takes an elbow to the face from the clinch.
>Gugenishvili tries to throw an elbow, but Perak uses wrestling to prevent him from launching the strike.
>Perak gets caught with a knee to the inside of the thigh.
>Perak is trapped up against the ropes and takes repeated small punches to the body from that position. This goes on for a full minute at least.
>Guram Gugenishvili looks totally gassed.
>We've now passed the halfway mark in this round.
>The referee thinks there has been too little progress, and brings the two fighters back to the center.
>Perak uses a jab to sting Gugenishvili.
>Gugenishvili gets hit with a crisp left jab.
>Perak steps in but an exchange of strikes goes nowhere.
>Gugenishvili steps in closer to force the issue.
>Slowly moving in closer, a ragged-looking Gugenishvili wants to wrestle Perak.
>Gugenishvili grabs Perak and pulls him into a grapple.
>Using his wrestling skills, Gugenishvili is trying to push Perak up against the ropes.
>He does so, and now has Perak pinned to the ropes.
>Showing his ability to exert control, Gugenishvili smothers Perak up against the ropes for a minute or more, wearing him down with occasional sharp punches to the ribs.
>Maro Perak looks totally gassed.
>There's under a minute left in this round.
>Gugenishvili takes a short step back and prepares to strike.
>Perak goes under a wild right hand and hits a jab.
>Perak lands a crisp jab.
>The time runs out and that round is over, and so is the fight

>The ring announcer is now giving the official decisions.
>All three judges have given Gugenishvili the win.
>Gugenishvili wins by unanimous decision!
>Official Result: Guram Gugenishvili defeats 'Mean Machine' Maro Perak (Unanimous Decision in 10:00 of round 2). The match was rated as being Poor.

Match Seven: Levan Razmadze x Satoshi Ishii

Round One:
>Round one begins!
>Ishii avoids a jab and scores with a clean jab.
>Razmadze counters a couple of wild swings by hitting a stinging left jab.
>Razmadze slips past a right jab and counters with a left.
>Ishii moves in closer but takes a crisp jab to the face.
>A left hand misses, allowing Ishii to counter with a nice right hand.
>Ishii sneaks a glance at his corner.
>Razmadze seems to be waiting for Ishii to make a move.
>Ishii counters an errant left jab with two punches.
>Ishii looks to move in and stand in the pocket.
>Keen to maintain some distance, Razmadze uses strikes to keep Ishii away.
>Razmadze avoids a jab and scores with a nice left hand.
>Ishii shoots in for a takedown.
>Razmadze attempts to avoid Ishii as he shoots in.
>The takedown doesn't work, Razmadze saw it coming and got out of range.
>Moving in closer, Ishii looks like he wants to strike from the pocket.
>A counter left catches Ishii above the eye.
>A right jab misses and Razmadze counters with a nice left hand.
>We pass the halfway mark of this round.
>Ishii shoots in for a takedown.
>Razmadze tries to avoid the takedown.
>Ishii doesn't get the takedown, Razmadze avoided it.
>Razmadze looks to be trying to close the distance between them.
>Ishii ends up grappling for supremacy with Razmadze.
>The grappling doesn't go anywhere, and they break apart.
>There's a takedown attempt from Ishii.
>Razmadze stuffs the takedown attempt and then pulls Ishii into a clinch.
>Razmadze is looking to muscle Ishii back against the ropes.
>Razmadze achieves it, pinning Ishii to the ropes.
>Razmadze moves back from the grapple and looks ready to strike.
>Razmadze lets a jab sail wide and counter-strikes with a solid punch.
>Razmadze uses head movement to slip past a wild swing, then hits a clean left jab.
>Using head movement to slip past a right jab, Razmadze hits a clean left jab.
>Razmadze tries for a right jab but Ishii uses head movement to avoid it.
>Razmadze slips past a jab and scores with a crisp left jab.
>There's under a minute left in this round.
>Ishii shows good head movement to avoid getting caught with a jab.
>Razmadze covers up, absorbing a flurry of punches.
>There's a double leg attempt from Ishii, from the pocket.
>The takedown doesn't work, Razmadze sprawled to defend it and then works into a clinch position.
>The time runs out on round one.

Round Two:
>There's the bell and round number two begins!
>Razmadze avoids a quick jab and hits a clean jab.
>Razmadze throws a left jab but Ishii avoids it.
>Ishii is looking to turn this into a wrestling match, and is getting in closer to Razmadze.
>Razmadze finds himself pulled into a grappling contest.
>Ishii is trying to force Razmadze into a Muay Thai clinch.
>Ishii can't quite get it though, and Razmadze takes control of the grapple.
>The grapple breaks up after a short struggle, and the two fighters step apart.
>There's a takedown attempt from Ishii.
>Razmadze sprawls to stop the takedown, then pulls Ishii up close into a clinch.
>Razmadze is trying to push Ishii so that his back is up against the ropes.
>Razmadze does it, Ishii is stuck with his back to the ropes.
>Breathing very hard, Levan Razmadze is looking ragged.
>Razmadze steps back to achieve some separation from Ishii and gets ready to strike.
>Ishii slips past a jab and scores with a clean punch.
>Ishii dodges a jab, and fires back with a quick series of punches.
>Ishii hits a right jab from the pocket.
>Ishii snaps off a nice right jab from the pocket.
>Razmadze uses head movement to avoid a left jab.
>Ishii backs away from Razmadze, creating some space between them.
>Ishii chooses to shoot in on Razmadze.
>Razmadze sprawls, stopping the takedown and forcing Ishii down to the ground into a type of turtle position.
>We've now passed the halfway mark in this round.
>Ishii cannot stop himself being rolled and secured in side control.
>Razmadze relinquishes side control and stands up, letting Ishii stand too.
>A straight right by Ishii keeps Razmadze from advancing.
>Time slips away as Razmadze doesn't press Ishii, allowing him to circle.
>Ishii uses a left hook to the body, but misses.
>The fight slows as Razmadze sits back and allows Ishii to circle.
>From the looks of things, I don't think Levan Razmadze has much energy left.
>Ishii throws a couple of wild punches as a set up, then shoots in for a takedown.
>Ishii is stopped by a good sprawl, and is pulled down to the ground in a loose front facelock until he is on his knees.
>Razmadze finds his efforts to roll the turtled Ishii over and secure side control fruitless.
>Ishii cannot stop himself being rolled and secured in side control.
>Razmadze begins trying to get himself behind Ishii.
>Ishii keeps Razmadze from getting behind him.
>Ishii tries to lock onto an arm from the bottom of side control.
>Razmadze blocks it.
>Satoshi Ishii is looking really tired.
>Razmadze stands up and backs off, letting Ishii stand up as well.
>We have one minute of the round remaining.
>Ishii chooses to move forward and try to take Razmadze down.
>Razmadze tries to avoid the takedown.
>Razmadze avoids the takedown attempt.
>The time runs out and that round is over, and so is the fight

>The judges' decisions are now being announced.
>Judge #1 has given Ishii the win.
>Judge #2 gives the result in favour of Razmadze.
>Judge #3: Razmadze.
>So the winner, by split decision, is Levan Razmadze!
>Official Result: Levan Razmadze defeats Satoshi Ishii (Split Decision in 10:00 of round 2). The match was rated as being Average.

Main Event: Jerome Le Banner x Asashoryu

Round One:
>We are underway!
>Advancing, Le Banner counters a left jab by using a left jab to the cheek.
>A feint gives Le Banner the space to nail Asashoryu with a great combination, ending with a beauty of a right cross.
>Le Banner looks to move in and stand in the pocket.
>The two fighters move closer, ready to strike.
>Le Banner uses a stiff jab.
>Le Banner scores with a combination of three quick punches to the body.
>Seeing a right kick to the body coming, Asashoryu darts in and counters with a solid punch.
>Both fighters advance and strike, but neither hits anything.
>Seeing a low kick coming, Asashoryu strikes first with a barrage of punches which sting Le Banner and cause him to try and cover up!
>Le Banner collapses, hurt, and Asashoryu looks to finish by unleashing a barrage of strikes to his downed opponent!
>The referee pulls Asashoryu away, stopping the match!

>Asashoryu takes the victory by way of TKO!
>Official Result: Asashoryu defeats Jerome 'Geronimo' Le Banner (TKO (Strikes) in 2:47 of round 1). The match was rated as being Great.

HWGP Quarterfinals:

Asashoryu x Todd Duffee

Levan Razmadze x Stav Economou

Guram Gugenishvili x David Oliva

Mijain Lopez x Jared Rosholt

wekka · February 9, 2013

For the first eight cards, the predictions will act as a league. Top four predictors will get to set the fight order for each of the four quarterfinal cards. First place gets HW/CW, 2nd:LW/FW , 3rd:BW/FLY , 4th:MW/WW.

Prediction Standings:

Jayden: 5-3

completesky: 4-4

Jingo: 4-4

CageRage: 4-4

wekka · February 9, 2013

PURE Fighting Championships II Card Finalized; Jimi Manuwa and Yoshiyuki Nakanishi Trade Opponents

After a successful first event, PURE formally announced the fight order to their second card, the Cruiserweight Grand Prix Opening Round.

Not many differences from the card that was announced along with the introduction of PURE, outside of the sixth and seventh fight on the card.

Yoshiyuki Nakanishi and Jimi Manuwa were originally slated to face Gilbert Yvel and Mathias Schuck, respectively. That is, until the card was recently announced.

When asked about the change, Matchmaker Sartin had this to say:

"The change boils down basically to better fights. I felt that the original fights were better but I believe these are superior. Yvel x Manuwa has fireworks written all over it and I think Nakanishi x Schuck is much more even as they seem to mesh well stylistically, at least on paper. These were far more than cosmetic changes..."

Here is the official card:

PURE Fighting Championships II: Cruiserweight Grand Prix Opening Round
@ Ariake Colosseum/ 2nd Week of March

Match One
Hans Stringer (20-5-2/Netherlands)
x
Emanuel Newton (18-7-1/USA)

Match Two
Cristiano Kaminishi (8-1/Brazil)
x
Hae Joon Yang (7-4/South Korea)

Match Three
Jan Blachowicz (16-3/Poland)
x
Tony Lopez (32-10/USA)

Match Four
Robert Drysdale (5-0/USA)
x
Raphael Davis (12-2/USA)

Match Five
Xande Ribiero (2-0/Brazil)
x
Yoel Romero Palacio (4-1/Cuba)

Match Six
Yoshiyuki Nakanishi (12-2/Japan)
x
Mathias Schuck (7-2/Germany)

Match Seven
Jimi Manuwa (12-0/England)
x
Gilbert Yvel (38-16-1/Netherlands)

Main Event
Ricardo Arona (14-5/Brazil)
x
Steve Bosse (9-1/Canada)

CageRage · February 9, 2013

PURE Fighting Championships II: Cruiserweight Grand Prix Opening Round

@ Ariake Colosseum/ 2nd Week of March

Match One

Hans Stringer (20-5-2/Netherlands)

x

Emanuel Newton (18-7-1/USA)

Match Two

Cristiano Kaminishi (8-1/Brazil)

x

Hae Joon Yang (7-4/South Korea)

Match Three

Jan Blachowicz (16-3/Poland)

x

Tony Lopez (32-10/USA)

Match Four

Robert Drysdale (5-0/USA)

x

Raphael Davis (12-2/USA)

Match Five

Xande Ribiero (2-0/Brazil)

x

Yoel Romero Palacio (4-1/Cuba)

Match Six

Yoshiyuki Nakanishi (12-2/Japan)

x

Mathias Schuck (7-2/Germany)

Match Seven

Jimi Manuwa (12-0/England)

x

Gilbert Yvel (38-16-1/Netherlands)

Main Event

Ricardo Arona (14-5/Brazil)

x

Steve Bosse (9-1/Canada)

Jingo · February 9, 2013

Match One

Hans Stringer (20-5-2/Netherlands)

x

Emanuel Newton (18-7-1/USA)

Match Two

Cristiano Kaminishi (8-1/Brazil)

x

Hae Joon Yang (7-4/South Korea)

Match Three

Jan Blachowicz (16-3/Poland)

x

Tony Lopez (32-10/USA)

Match Four

Robert Drysdale (5-0/USA)

x

Raphael Davis (12-2/USA)

Match Five

Xande Ribiero (2-0/Brazil)

x

Yoel Romero Palacio (4-1/Cuba)

Match Six

Yoshiyuki Nakanishi (12-2/Japan)

x

Mathias Schuck (7-2/Germany)

Match Seven

Jimi Manuwa (12-0/England)

x

Gilbert Yvel (38-16-1/Netherlands)

Main Event

Ricardo Arona (14-5/Brazil)

x

Steve Bosse (9-1/Canada)

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