PRIDE FC: Never dies!!!

vladjarca · February 9, 2021

Heavyweight Bout: Hidehiko Yoshida (225 lbs) vs. Carmelo Marrero (255 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Marcio Cruz (230 lbs) vs. Valentjin Overeem (235 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Jason Black (170 lbs) vs. Royce Gracie (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Vinny Magalhaes (205 lbs) vs. Rousimar Palhares (205 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Middleweight Bout: Ian Freeman (205 lbs) vs. Roger Gracie (205 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Dokonjonosuke Mishima (155 lbs) vs. Jorge Masvidal (165 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Cristiano Marcello (165 lbs) vs. David Baron (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Brad Tavares (185 lbs) vs. Delson Heleno (185 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Josh Neer (170 lbs) vs. Ralek Gracie (185 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Shungo Oyama (185 lbs) vs. Douglas Lima (185 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Evangelista Santos (185 lbs) vs. Arman Gambaryan (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Evan Dunham (165 lbs) vs. Milton Vieira (165 lbs)

rodrigoviolim · February 9, 2021

<div style="text-align:center;"><img src=https://i.imgur.com/tlvMJ4G.png></div> Matt Edwards (ME): Hi, I'm Matt Edwards! Live from Osaka Dome in Osaka, Japan. Today PRIDE continue competition to the ring, a confrontation between the biggest MMA teams today. In the main event of the night Hidehiko Yoshida of representing your dojo against Carmelo Marrero who represents American Top Team. The card also brings the confrontation between Chute Boxe vs. Golden Glory, Miletich Fighting System vs. Team Gracie and Xtreme Couture vs. Brazilian Top Team. With me tonight my broadcast partner Daniel Tuxford. Good night Daniel! Daniel Tuxford (DT): Good night Matt and MMA fans! Big fights tonight, MMA legends in action, rising stars and the expectation of knowing which the biggest team in the world increases, as the tournament is approaching the final stretch. We can only expect another big event Matt! ME: Come on! Here everything is ready for the opening of the event. And right after that we are already going to the first fight MMA fans, who will accompany us tonight on blurcat.com. Now it's up to her, the "PRIDE voice" Lenne Hardt! Lenne Hardt: PRIDE Bushido 17!!!! Liveeeee from Osaka Dome! Now here comes the full card! The first match!!! From Brazil, Milton Vieira! From USA, Evan Dunhan! Second match; From Armenia, Arman Gamburyan! From Brazil, Evangelista Cyborgggg! Third Match; From Brazil, Douglas Lima! From Japaaaan, Shungooo Oyamaaa! Fourth match; From USA, Ralek Gracieee! From USA, Jooosh Neer! Fifth match; From Brazil, Delson Heleno!! Frrrrrom Hawaii, Brad Tavareeees!! Sixth match; From Franceee, David Baron!!! Frrrrom Brazil, Cristianoooo Marcelloooo!! Seventh match; From USA, Jorge Masvidaaaaal!!!! Frooom Japan, Dokonjonosuke Mishimaaaa!!! Eighth match; From Brazil, Roger Gracieeeee!! From England, Ian Freemaaaaan!!! Ninth match; Frooom Brazil, Rousimar Palhares!! From Brazil, Vinny Magalhaes!! Tenth match; Froooooommm Brazil, Rooooooyceeee Gracieeeee!! Frooom USA, Jason Black!!! Eleventh match; Froooooommm Netherlaaaands, Valentjin Overeeeeem!! Frooom Braziiiiilll, Marcioooo Cruz!!! Final match: Frooooom USAAA, Carmelo Marreroooo!!! Frooooooooommmm Japaaaaaan, Hidehikooooooo Yoooooshidaaaaa!!!! PRIDE BUSHIDO 17 LIVE IN OSAKAAAAA DOMEEEEE IS NOOOOOOOW!!!!!! <div style="text-align:center;">Preliminary Card Lightweight Bout Evan Dunham (4-0) vs. Milton Vieira (7-7-1)</div> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Our first fight of the night is Evan Dunham (4-0, 1-0 PRIDE) competing against Milton Vieira (7-7-1, 0-3 PRIDE). The referee is Mario Yamasaki. Our ringside judges are: Takenaka Suzu, Konishi Bunzo, and Tsumemasa Kawakami. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell! (Rd 1 - 10:00) We start with a touch of gloves. (Rd 1 - 09:46) They stand and trade blows but neither can land anything damaging. (Rd 1 - 09:19) Moving in fast, Vieira wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch. (Rd 1 - 09:07) Clinched with Dunham, Vieira looks to try and take him down. (Rd 1 - 09:07) Vieira doesn't get the takedown, Dunham instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple. (Rd 1 - 08:47) Clinched with Vieira, Dunham looks to try and take him down. (Rd 1 - 08:47) Dunham can't get Vieira down to the ground. (Rd 1 - 08:27) Dunham is looking to muscle Vieira back against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:27) Dunham can't do it though, Vieira defended it well. (Rd 1 - 08:12) Dunham is trying to muscle Vieira up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:12) Dunham does it, Vieira is stuck with his back to the ropes. (Rd 1 - 07:58) Dunham looks for a takedown by grabbing both his opponent's legs and trying to trip him to the mat. (Rd 1 - 07:58) It doesn't work, Vieira defended against it well. (Rd 1 - 07:58) The takedown may have been blocked, but Vieira is still stuck against the ropes and can't seem to get free. (Rd 1 - 07:43) Dunham tries to take Vieira down. (Rd 1 - 07:43) He has the takedown! Vieira pulls guard. (Rd 1 - 07:25) In guard, Dunham is content just to throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 1 - 06:59) Dunham deflects a couple of punches that Vieira threw from below. (Rd 1 - 06:47) Dunham fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves. (Rd 1 - 06:17) Dunham throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move. (Rd 1 - 05:54) Vieira pulls Dunham down in close and hits him with a couple of short punches to the side of the head. (Rd 1 - 05:42) Dunham unloads some right hands, but doesn't land anything significant. (Rd 1 - 05:42) The attack does see Dunham get pushed away though, right out of guard, and he is now standing. (Rd 1 - 05:26) Dunham looks to get on top of Vieira. (Rd 1 - 05:26) Vieira moves quickly, scrambling for position before Dunham can get a hold. (Rd 1 - 05:13) Vieira scrambles to his feet, but Dunham immediately drives him up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 04:56) We pass the halfway mark of this round. (Rd 1 - 04:56) With Vieira stuck against the ropes, Dunham tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs. (Rd 1 - 04:56) Vieira cannot stop the takedown and has to pull guard. (Rd 1 - 04:40) Dunham punches down at Vieira, but they are easily taken on the gloves. (Rd 1 - 04:11) Dunham keeps Vieira guessing with a few quick strikes. (Rd 1 - 03:44) Vieira throws out some punches, but Dunham leans back to avoid them. (Rd 1 - 03:25) Dunham pounds away with right hands, but doesn't do much damage. (Rd 1 - 03:13) Dunham deflects a couple of punches that Vieira threw from below. (Rd 1 - 03:01) Dunham fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves. (Rd 1 - 02:36) Vieira tries to sweep Dunham but can't do it. (Rd 1 - 02:22) Dunham strikes away at Vieira but can't land anything damaging. (Rd 1 - 02:22) Vieira pushes Dunham away while defending the strikes, right out of guard. (Rd 1 - 02:05) Dunham looks to get on top of Vieira. (Rd 1 - 02:05) Vieira is too quick, slipping away from Dunham and starting to scramble. (Rd 1 - 01:51) The scramble leaves Dunham on his back pulling guard. (Rd 1 - 01:32) In guard, Vieira is content just to throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 1 - 01:09) Vieira looks to pass guard and get side control. (Rd 1 - 01:09) The pass attempt results in a scramble for position as Dunham tries to get back up. (Rd 1 - 00:57) We're into the final minute of the round. (Rd 1 - 00:57) The scramble sees Vieira up first, only to be grabbed and wrestled up against the ropes almost immediately. (Rd 1 - 00:38) Showing how good he can be at controlling opponents, Dunham keeps Vieira stuck against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 00:38) They exchange close-quarters punches until the round ends. (Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one ends as time expires. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 2</div> (Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell and the final round begins! (Rd 2 - 04:47) Dunham looked like he was about to shoot, but Vieira stepped in fast and started a clinch. (Rd 2 - 04:34) Clinched with Dunham, Vieira looks to try and take him down. (Rd 2 - 04:34) Vieira can't get the takedown as Dunham wrestles his way into a dominant position. (Rd 2 - 04:20) Dunham uses a nice knee strike from the grapple and catches Vieira to the side of the stomach. (Rd 2 - 04:03) Dunham tries to take Vieira down. (Rd 2 - 04:03) It doesn't work, Vieira defended against it well. (Rd 2 - 03:52) Dunham is trying to muscle Vieira up against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 03:52) Dunham achieves it, pinning Vieira to the ropes. (Rd 2 - 03:39) Dunham drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down. (Rd 2 - 03:39) Vieira blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base. (Rd 2 - 03:27) With the ropes trapping Vieira, Dunham looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs. (Rd 2 - 03:27) It's unsuccessful, Vieira maintained a good solid base. (Rd 2 - 03:27) Vieira is still stuck against the ropes however. (Rd 2 - 03:13) Dunham drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down. (Rd 2 - 03:13) The takedown is completed, Vieira is left turtled up on his hands and knees, Dunham on top of him. (Rd 2 - 02:57) Taking advantage of a pause, Vieira scrambles back up, but Dunham gets back control. (Rd 2 - 02:47) Dunham looks to drag Vieira down while holding him from behind. (Rd 2 - 02:47) Vieira shows stubborn resistance and Dunham cannot complete the takedown. (Rd 2 - 02:09) Vieira struggles free of the back control of Dunham and returns to the center. (Rd 2 - 01:58) Dunham is still moving well, but he is definitely breathing a little deeper now. (Rd 2 - 01:58) Taking a few gulps of breath, Vieira is giving the first hint that he is starting to tire a touch. (Rd 2 - 01:51) Dunham looked like he was about to shoot, but Vieira stepped in fast and started a clinch. (Rd 2 - 01:39) Vieira attempts to wrestle Dunham to the ground. (Rd 2 - 01:39) The takedown doesn't work, Dunham blocked it and then takes control of the grapple. (Rd 2 - 01:20) Dunham tries to wrestle Vieira backward and up against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 01:20) He does so and now has Vieira pinned to the ropes. (Rd 2 - 01:07) Vieira is controlled up against the ropes and takes a hard foot stomp. (Rd 2 - 00:58) We move into the final sixty seconds of this round. (Rd 2 - 00:58) Dunham tries to take Vieira down. (Rd 2 - 00:58) He gets a big takedown and he manages to get side control as a result. (Rd 2 - 00:45) Dunham throws a few right hands, but is mainly trying to catch his breath. (Rd 2 - 00:17) Dunham blocks an attempt to pull guard. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The time expires on round two, and that is the end of the fight. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The ring announcer is now giving the official decisions. (Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have agreed that Dunham is the winner. (Rd 2 - 00:00) So the winner, by unanimous decision, is Evan Dunham! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Evan Dunham def. Milton Vieira by Unanimous Decision. Welterweight Bout Evangelista Santos (15-12) vs. Arman Gambaryan (18-6-1)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Next up is a match in which 'Cyborg' Evangelista Santos (15-12, 1-2 PRIDE) takes on Arman Gambaryan (18-6-1, 0-0 PRIDE). Our referee is John McCarthy. Our judges at ringside are: Joe Ancona, Takenaka Suzu, and Konishi Bunzo. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins! (Rd 1 - 10:00) They start with a touch of gloves. (Rd 1 - 09:51) Cyborg moves in closer, ready to attack. (Rd 1 - 09:51) Gambaryan appeared to be going for a takedown, but Cyborg took the initiative first. (Rd 1 - 09:51) Cyborg throws a quick one-two but doesn't land either blow. (Rd 1 - 09:30) A combo that ends with a kick to the legs fails to land for Cyborg. (Rd 1 - 09:18) Gambaryan quickly shoots on Cyborg. (Rd 1 - 09:11) Gambaryan gets hold of a leg but Cyborg remains standing, hopping on the other foot. (Rd 1 - 09:11) Unable to complete the takedown, Gambaryan instead pushes Cyborg up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:56) Showing his ability to exert control, Gambaryan smothers Cyborg up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:56) The next minute or so sees them hitting each other with short punches from that position. (Rd 1 - 07:52) Gambaryan tries to take Cyborg down. (Rd 1 - 07:52) The takedown is completed, Cyborg is left turtled up on his hands and knees, Gambaryan on top of him. (Rd 1 - 07:35) Gambaryan pounds away, but Cyborg isn't troubled by the strikes. (Rd 1 - 07:21) Moving quickly, Cyborg scrambles. (Rd 1 - 07:08) Cyborg ends up in half guard. (Rd 1 - 06:57) Cyborg attempts to pass half guard and gain a better position. (Rd 1 - 06:57) The pass attempt results in a scramble for position as Gambaryan tries to get back up. (Rd 1 - 06:45) The scramble leaves Gambaryan on his back pulling guard. (Rd 1 - 06:26) Cyborg begins trying to pass guard and get a better position. (Rd 1 - 06:26) The pass attempt results in a scramble for position as Gambaryan tries to get back up. (Rd 1 - 06:15) The scramble leaves Gambaryan on his back pulling guard. (Rd 1 - 05:59) Cyborg throws a few relatively weak right hands. (Rd 1 - 05:42) Gambaryan attempts to grab an arm of Cyborg from the bottom of the guard. (Rd 1 - 05:42) Gambaryan cannot secure the arm. (Rd 1 - 05:02) Cyborg attempts to pass guard. (Rd 1 - 05:02) Gambaryan keeps Cyborg in guard. (Rd 1 - 04:27) Gambaryan tries to lock onto an arm from the bottom of the guard. (Rd 1 - 04:27) Gambaryan cannot secure the arm. (Rd 1 - 04:08) Cyborg throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move. (Rd 1 - 03:43) Gambaryan tries to ensnare an arm. (Rd 1 - 03:43) Cyborg fends off Gambaryan, and doesn't give up an arm. (Rd 1 - 03:13) With no progress being made, the referee stands them back up. (Rd 1 - 03:13) Taking a few gulps of breath, Cyborg is giving the first hint that he is starting to tire a touch. (Rd 1 - 03:05) Gambaryan shoots in, looking for a takedown. (Rd 1 - 03:05) Gambaryan gets hold of a leg but Cyborg remains standing, hopping on the other foot. (Rd 1 - 03:05) Gambaryan drives Cyborg up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 02:43) Cyborg is pressed up against the ropes and simply can't break the control that Gambaryan has over him. (Rd 1 - 02:43) They remain there, hitting each other with short punches, for about thirty seconds. (Rd 1 - 02:07) Gambaryan looks to sweep a leg out from under Cyborg so as to take him down with a trip. (Rd 1 - 02:07) Cyborg stops the attempted trip, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple and put Gambaryan against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 01:45) Cyborg steps back to achieve some separation from Gambaryan. (Rd 1 - 01:25) Cyborg comes in looking to strike. (Rd 1 - 01:25) Cyborg can't hit a set-up left jab, but then catches Gambaryan with a right kick to the head. (Rd 1 - 01:04) Cyborg fails to find a home for his jab, but then hits Gambaryan with a beauty of a straight right. (Rd 1 - 00:56) We move into the final sixty seconds of this round. (Rd 1 - 00:56) A few deep breaths betray that Cyborg is starting to get into the deeper reaches of his gas tank. (Rd 1 - 00:43) Gambaryan chooses to shoot in on Cyborg. (Rd 1 - 00:43) Cyborg partially defends it and ends up hopping on one foot while Gambaryan has a hold of the other. (Rd 1 - 00:43) Gambaryan uses the position to drive Cyborg up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 00:24) Gambaryan shows great control, keeping Cyborg pressed against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 00:24) The gruelling grappling contest continues until the bell with both fighters looking to avoid leaving any openings. (Rd 1 - 00:00) Time expires and we come to the end of round one. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 2</div> (Rd 2 - 05:00) And here we go, one last round! (Rd 2 - 04:53) Gambaryan chooses to shoot in on Cyborg. (Rd 2 - 04:53) Cyborg almost got away but not quite; he is left hopping while Gambaryan has hold of one leg. (Rd 2 - 04:53) Unable to complete the takedown, Gambaryan instead pushes Cyborg up against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 04:31) Cyborg is breathing very hard. (Rd 2 - 04:31) Gambaryan looks to take Cyborg down with a trip. (Rd 2 - 04:31) Cyborg is taken down by a quick inside leg trip, he can do nothing but pull half guard! (Rd 2 - 04:16) Gambaryan begins trying to get his leg free of the half guard. (Rd 2 - 04:16) He does excellently, getting into side control. (Rd 2 - 03:09) In side control, Gambaryan catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 2 - 02:48) Gambaryan throws a few strikes, but they are without venom. (Rd 2 - 02:19) Gambaryan throws a few strikes, but is clearly slowing things down so that he can catch his breath. (Rd 2 - 01:57) Gambaryan attempts a kimura. (Rd 2 - 01:57) Cyborg stops Gambaryan from applying it. (Rd 2 - 01:24) Gambaryan begins trying to get himself into a mount. (Rd 2 - 01:24) He can't mount Cyborg. (Rd 2 - 00:17) Gambaryan unloads with big rights, but Cyborg covers up well. (Rd 2 - 00:03) Gambaryan pounds away, but Cyborg isn't troubled by the strikes. (Rd 2 - 00:00) Time runs out and that's the end of the fight. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The official decisions are being reported now. (Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have given Gambaryan the win. (Rd 2 - 00:00) So the winner, by unanimous decision, is Arman Gambaryan! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Arman Gambaryan def. Evangelista Santos by Unanimous Decision. Welterweight Bout Shungo Oyama (6-11) vs. Douglas Lima (9-1)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Another match is about to begin; Shungo Oyama (6-11, 1-5 PRIDE) battling Douglas 'The Phenom' Lima (9-1, 1-0 PRIDE). John McCarthy is the referee for this fight. Our judges are: Takenaka Suzu, Konishi Bunzo, and Tsumemasa Kawakami. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins! (Rd 1 - 10:00) The fighters touch gloves. (Rd 1 - 09:48) Lima can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then catches Oyama with a crunching right hook. (Rd 1 - 09:22) Seeing his opponent about to shoot in, Oyama timed it well and moved in to start a clinch. (Rd 1 - 09:07) Oyama attempts to wrestle Lima to the ground. (Rd 1 - 09:07) Lima blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base. (Rd 1 - 08:50) Oyama looks to set up a trip takedown. (Rd 1 - 08:50) Lima stops the attempted trip, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple. (Rd 1 - 08:31) Using his wrestling skills, Lima is trying to push Oyama up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:31) Lima manages it and controls Oyama up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:13) With the ropes trapping Oyama, Lima looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs. (Rd 1 - 08:13) He gets a big takedown and he manages to get side control as a result. (Rd 1 - 08:02) Lima hits a knee strike to the ribs. (Rd 1 - 07:51) Lima fires off a few punches, but they aren't thrown with any great force. (Rd 1 - 07:35) Lima throws some small strikes, but is clearly just taking a moment to try and catch his breath. (Rd 1 - 07:07) Lima throws a few strikes, but they are without venom. (Rd 1 - 06:49) Lima looks to get a mount. (Rd 1 - 06:49) Oyama desperately tries to fight the mount, and they find themselves scrambling for position. (Rd 1 - 06:38) Lima ends up in guard. (Rd 1 - 06:19) Lima attempts to pass guard. (Rd 1 - 06:19) He passes guard but loses his control momentarily and a scramble begins. (Rd 1 - 06:08) Lima manages to come out on top with side control. (Rd 1 - 05:57) Lima throws a few right hands to the body. (Rd 1 - 05:32) Lima punches down at Oyama, but they are easily taken on the gloves. (Rd 1 - 05:14) Lima uses side control to hit a knee just above the hip. (Rd 1 - 05:02) In side control, Lima catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 1 - 04:42) Lima throws a few strikes, but is clearly slowing things down so that he can catch his breath. (Rd 1 - 04:23) Lima uses side control to hit a brutal knee strike just above the hip! (Rd 1 - 04:11) Lima looks to get a mount. (Rd 1 - 04:11) He can't get the mount as Oyama rolls away to stop it, but does take his back instead. (Rd 1 - 03:29) Lima fires away with punches and Oyama takes several shots that threaten to end the fight! (Rd 1 - 03:14) Lima tries to finish Oyama off with a rear naked choke. (Rd 1 - 03:14) Oyama doesn't allow the rear naked choke to be applied. (Rd 1 - 02:56) Oyama tries to turn over and sweep Lima but can't do it. (Rd 1 - 02:31) Lima attempts to complete a rear naked choke. (Rd 1 - 02:31) Oyama fights off the rear naked choke attempt. (Rd 1 - 02:01) Lima blocks Oyama as he tries to roll over. (Rd 1 - 01:36) Lima pounds away and Oyama struggles to deal with them. (Rd 1 - 01:19) Lima pounds away, but Oyama isn't troubled by the strikes. (Rd 1 - 01:08) Lima blocks an attempt to roll him off of the back. (Rd 1 - 00:46) Lima attempts to complete a rear naked choke. (Rd 1 - 00:46) Oyama defends himself well against the choke. (Rd 1 - 00:29) Lima blocks an attempt to roll him off of the back. (Rd 1 - 00:05) Lima tries to finish Oyama off with a rear naked choke. (Rd 1 - 00:05) Oyama doesn't allow the rear naked choke to be applied. (Rd 1 - 00:00) The time runs out on round one. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 2</div> (Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell and the final round begins! (Rd 2 - 04:47) They clinch up and start jockeying for position. (Rd 2 - 04:47) Lima is the aggressor. (Rd 2 - 04:39) Lima catches Oyama with a knee strike to the body from the grapple. (Rd 2 - 04:26) Using his wrestling skills, Lima is trying to push Oyama up against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 04:26) He does so and now has Oyama pinned to the ropes. (Rd 2 - 04:12) Lima pins Oyama up against the ropes and stomps down hard on his foot. (Rd 2 - 03:57) Lima looks for a takedown by grabbing both his opponent's legs and trying to trip him to the mat. (Rd 2 - 03:57) Oyama blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base. (Rd 2 - 03:39) With the ropes trapping Oyama, Lima looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs. (Rd 2 - 03:39) Lima can't get the takedown as Oyama wrestles his way into a dominant position. (Rd 2 - 03:25) Oyama looks for a takedown by grabbing both his opponent's legs and trying to trip him to the mat. (Rd 2 - 03:25) It doesn't work, Lima defended against it well. (Rd 2 - 03:25) Lima may have stopped the takedown but he is having less luck getting away from the ropes. (Rd 2 - 03:14) With Lima stuck against the ropes, Oyama tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs. (Rd 2 - 03:14) Lima blocks the takedown attempt and turns Oyama around so that he has his back to the ropes. (Rd 2 - 02:47) Oyama takes a sharp stomp to the foot. (Rd 2 - 02:38) Oyama takes a hard foot stomp. (Rd 2 - 02:30) We've now passed the halfway mark in this round. (Rd 2 - 02:30) Lima smothers Oyama against the ropes and stomps down on his foot. (Rd 2 - 02:17) Oyama is controlled up against the ropes and takes a hard foot stomp. (Rd 2 - 02:03) Oyama doesn't look like he has much left in the tank. (Rd 2 - 02:03) Lima uses a hard foot stomp. (Rd 2 - 01:53) Lima stomps down on his opponent's foot. (Rd 2 - 01:40) Lima tries a foot stomp, but Oyama seizes the chance to create some space and break free. (Rd 2 - 01:27) A few deep breaths betray that Lima is starting to get into the deeper reaches of his gas tank. (Rd 2 - 01:21) They clinch up and start jockeying for position. (Rd 2 - 01:21) Lima manages to get control of the clinch. (Rd 2 - 01:12) Lima is trying to muscle Oyama up against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 01:12) He does so and now has Oyama pinned to the ropes. (Rd 2 - 00:55) There's under a minute left in this round. (Rd 2 - 00:55) With the ropes trapping Oyama, Lima looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs. (Rd 2 - 00:55) It's unsuccessful, Oyama maintained a good solid base. (Rd 2 - 00:35) Breathing very hard, Lima is looking ragged. (Rd 2 - 00:35) Lima attempts a leg-sweep trip to put Oyama on the ground. (Rd 2 - 00:35) He executes an outside leg trip, sweeping Oyama to the mat where he pulls guard! (Rd 2 - 00:22) Lima tries to pound on Oyama, but all the blows are comfortably dealt with. (Rd 2 - 00:10) Lima pounds away on Oyama but doesn't do much damage. (Rd 2 - 00:00) Time runs out and that's the end of the fight. (Rd 2 - 00:00) Here come the official decisions. (Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have agreed that Lima is the winner. (Rd 2 - 00:00) Making Douglas 'The Phenom' Lima the winner by unanimous decision! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Douglas Lima def. Shungo Oyama by Unanimous Decision. Welterweight Bout Josh Neer (22-8-1) vs. Ralek Gracie (0-1)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Moving on, Josh 'The Dentist' Neer (22-8-1, 1-0 PRIDE) goes head to head with Ralek Gracie (0-1, 0-1 PRIDE). Marc Goddard is the referee for this fight. The judges are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Tetsuzan Watoga, and Joe Ancona. There's a big size difference in this fight, Gracie is probably at least 25lbs heavier. That's a major disadvantage for Neer to try and overcome. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) Moving on, Josh 'The Dentist' Neer goes head to head with Ralek Gracie. (Rd 1 - 10:00) Marc Goddard is the referee for this fight. (Rd 1 - 10:00) The judges are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Tetsuzan Watoga, and Joe Ancona. (Rd 1 - 10:00) There's a big size difference in this fight, Gracie is probably at least 25lbs heavier. That's a major disadvantage for Neer to try and overcome. (Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell! (Rd 1 - 10:00) They start with a touch of gloves. (Rd 1 - 09:52) Neer lands a jab and then hits Gracie with a beauty of a straight right. (Rd 1 - 09:37) A punch from Neer fails to land. (Rd 1 - 09:33) Gracie moves in fast and shoots on Neer. (Rd 1 - 09:24) The takedown is unsuccessful, Neer sprawled to block it and then steps back to safety. (Rd 1 - 08:50) Both fighters seem to have the same idea and come together in a clinch. (Rd 1 - 08:50) Neer aggressively gets to a dominant position. (Rd 1 - 08:43) Neer is looking to muscle Gracie back against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:43) Gracie ends up backed against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:25) Neer drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down. (Rd 1 - 08:25) The takedown is completed, Gracie is on his back and pulls half guard. (Rd 1 - 08:06) Neer throws some small strikes, but is clearly just taking a moment to try and catch his breath. (Rd 1 - 07:48) Gracie tries to transition to full guard, but can't manage it. (Rd 1 - 07:35) Neer begins trying to get his leg free of half guard and get a better position. (Rd 1 - 07:35) Gracie fights the attempt off, and they wind up scrambling for position. (Rd 1 - 07:21) The scramble leaves Neer on his back pulling guard. (Rd 1 - 07:09) Gracie throws some minor strikes. (Rd 1 - 06:47) Neer tries to catch Gracie with a punch, but it is not on target. (Rd 1 - 06:32) Gracie throws a few strikes, but they are without venom. (Rd 1 - 06:11) Neer pulls Gracie close and scores with a couple of short punches to the side of his head. (Rd 1 - 05:51) Gracie pounds away with right hands, but doesn't do much damage. (Rd 1 - 05:37) Neer tries to pull Gracie in close and pepper him with short strikes, but can't. (Rd 1 - 05:17) Gracie looks to pass guard and get side control. (Rd 1 - 05:17) Neer tries to counter the pass attempt, and they find themselves scrambling for position. (Rd 1 - 05:06) The scramble fails to secure either fighter a dominant position, and they both end up standing. (Rd 1 - 04:55) We are now at the halfway point of the round. (Rd 1 - 04:43) Gracie looked like he was about to shoot, but Neer stepped in fast and started a clinch. (Rd 1 - 04:29) Using his wrestling skills, Neer is trying to push Gracie up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 04:29) Neer does it, Gracie is stuck with his back to the ropes. (Rd 1 - 04:14) Neer tries to take Gracie down. (Rd 1 - 04:14) Gracie cannot stop the takedown and has to pull guard. (Rd 1 - 03:58) Neer punches down at Gracie, but they are easily taken on the gloves. (Rd 1 - 03:34) Neer blocks Gracie as he tries a sweep from the guard. (Rd 1 - 03:21) Neer pounds away, but Gracie calmly deals with them. (Rd 1 - 03:01) Neer blocks Gracie as he tries a sweep from the guard. (Rd 1 - 02:42) In guard, Neer is content just to throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 1 - 02:18) Neer blocks Gracie as he tries a sweep from the guard. (Rd 1 - 02:03) Neer fires off a few punches. (Rd 1 - 01:47) Neer blocks an attempted sweep. (Rd 1 - 01:33) Neer keeps Gracie guessing with a few quick strikes. (Rd 1 - 01:11) Gracie tries to sweep Neer but can't do it. (Rd 1 - 00:56) We have one minute of the round remaining. (Rd 1 - 00:56) Neer fires off some rights, but Gracie isn't troubled by them. (Rd 1 - 00:42) Neer blocks an attempted sweep. (Rd 1 - 00:26) With no progress being made, the referee stands them back up. (Rd 1 - 00:19) Seeing his opponent about to shoot in, Neer timed it well and moved in to start a clinch. (Rd 1 - 00:08) Neer hits Gracie with a knee strike to the body as they grapple. (Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one is brought to an end as time runs out. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 2</div> (Rd 2 - 05:00) Our last round, round two, begins! (Rd 2 - 04:50) Neer shoots in, looking for a takedown. (Rd 2 - 04:50) Gracie partially defends it and ends up hopping on one foot while Neer has a hold of the other. (Rd 2 - 04:50) Unable to complete the takedown, Neer instead pushes Gracie up against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 04:34) Neer tries to take Gracie down. (Rd 2 - 04:34) Neer gets the takedown! Gracie pulls guard. (Rd 2 - 04:16) Neer begins trying to pass the guard. (Rd 2 - 04:16) He passes guard but can't secure side control as Gracie starts a scramble for position. (Rd 2 - 04:02) Gracie ends up on the bottom with Neer in side control. (Rd 2 - 03:45) Neer keeps Gracie guessing with a few quick strikes. (Rd 2 - 03:15) Neer blocks Gracie as he tries a transition to guard. (Rd 2 - 02:58) Neer pounds away on Gracie but doesn't do much damage. (Rd 2 - 02:46) Neer blocks an attempt to pull guard. (Rd 2 - 02:33) In side control, Neer throws a couple of punches designed to keep Gracie guessing. (Rd 2 - 02:07) Gracie tries to move to guard, but Neer doesn't allow it. (Rd 2 - 01:49) Neer fires away with punches, but does little in the way of damage. (Rd 2 - 01:34) Neer blocks Gracie as he tries a transition to guard. (Rd 2 - 01:22) The lengthy period of stalemate results in the referee standing them both back up. (Rd 2 - 01:22) For the first time, Neer is starting to breathe a little heavier. (Rd 2 - 01:22) Gracie appears to be feeling a little fatigue for the first time in this fight, his hands are starting to lower just a fraction. (Rd 2 - 01:16) Neer comes in, looking for a takedown. (Rd 2 - 01:16) The takedown is completed, Neer gets side control from it. (Rd 2 - 01:06) Neer pounds away, Gracie is in big trouble and is definitely rocked! (Rd 2 - 00:53) There's under a minute left in this round. (Rd 2 - 00:53) Neer pounds away, but is unable to land many clean shots. (Rd 2 - 00:40) Gracie tries to move to guard, but Neer doesn't allow it. (Rd 2 - 00:22) Neer unloads with some right hands, but Gracie deals with them comfortably. (Rd 2 - 00:10) Gracie tries to move to guard, but Neer doesn't allow it. (Rd 2 - 00:00) We reach the time limit and this fight is over. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The ring announcer is now giving the official decisions. (Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have agreed that Neer is the winner. (Rd 2 - 00:00) Making Josh 'The Dentist' Neer the winner by unanimous decision! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Josh Neer def. Ralek Gracie by Unanimous Decision. Welterweight Bout Brad Tavares (3-0) vs. Delson Heleno (13-2)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Next up, Brad Tavares (3-0, 0-0 PRIDE) taking on Delson 'Pe de Chumbo' Heleno (13-2, 1-0 PRIDE). Our referee is Marc Goddard. The judges are: Tetsuzan Watoga, Joe Ancona, and Takenaka Suzu. Tavares may have weighed in the same as Heleno yesterday, but he clearly has a significant size advantage now. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell! (Rd 1 - 09:51) There's a takedown attempt from Heleno. (Rd 1 - 09:51) Heleno can't get past the sprawl of Tavares and gets pushed down onto his hands and knees instead. (Rd 1 - 09:31) Tavares unloads with big rights and lands a few powerful shots. (Rd 1 - 09:19) Turtled up, Heleno takes a wicked soccer kick to the side of the head! (Rd 1 - 09:06) Fearing more kicks coming, Heleno rolls onto his back. (Rd 1 - 09:06) Tavares looks to get on top of Heleno. (Rd 1 - 09:06) Heleno catches Tavares in guard. (Rd 1 - 08:51) Tavares fires away with punches, but Heleno doesn't take any undue damage. (Rd 1 - 08:32) Heleno attempts to secure an arm. (Rd 1 - 08:32) Tavares blocks it. (Rd 1 - 08:01) Tavares tries to pound on Heleno, but none of the blows land with any degree of power. (Rd 1 - 07:45) Heleno reaches up and tries to lock up an arm. (Rd 1 - 07:45) Tavares defends it. (Rd 1 - 07:21) Tavares pounds away with rights but fails to land any significant blows. (Rd 1 - 07:04) Heleno tries to ensnare an arm. (Rd 1 - 07:04) Tavares doesn't let his arm get taken. (Rd 1 - 06:24) Tavares tries to pound on Heleno, but all the blows are comfortably dealt with. (Rd 1 - 06:09) Heleno tries to ensnare an arm. (Rd 1 - 06:09) An armbar is applied, and as soon as the arm is pulled straight Tavares has to tap out! (Rd 1 - 05:38) The winner, by submission, is Delson 'Pe de Chumbo' Heleno! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Delson Heleno def. Brad Tavares by Submission (Armbar) in 4:22 of Round 1. Lightweight Bout Cristiano Marcello (8-3) vs. David Baron (15-2)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Moving on to the next match, in which Cristiano Marcello (8-3, 1-2 PRIDE) fights David Baron (15-2, 2-1 PRIDE). Mario Yamasaki will be the referee. The judges for this bout are: Joe Ancona, Takenaka Suzu, and Konishi Bunzo. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins! (Rd 1 - 09:50) Both fighters want to get in close, and they get into a clinch. (Rd 1 - 09:50) Baron wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch. (Rd 1 - 09:41) Baron tries to wrestle Marcello backward and up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 09:41) Baron achieves it, pinning Marcello to the ropes. (Rd 1 - 09:26) It isn't pretty, but Baron has Marcello stuck up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 09:26) They exchange short punches to the body for about half a minute. (Rd 1 - 08:47) Baron smothers Marcello up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:47) Baron and Marcello remain up against the ropes for around the next minute, doing little other than throwing occasional short punches. (Rd 1 - 07:59) Baron looks to take Marcello down by setting up a judo throw. (Rd 1 - 07:59) Marcello blocks the attempted throw and turns Baron around so that he has his back to the ropes. (Rd 1 - 07:42) Marcello looks to set up a trip takedown. (Rd 1 - 07:42) Baron is taken down by a quick inside leg trip, he can do nothing but pull half guard! (Rd 1 - 07:24) Marcello fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves. (Rd 1 - 06:58) Baron tries to move from half guard to full guard, but Marcello doesn't allow it. (Rd 1 - 06:46) Marcello throws a few right hands as he takes a moment to plan ahead. (Rd 1 - 06:29) Marcello blocks an attempted move from half guard to full guard. (Rd 1 - 06:12) Marcello pounds away with rights but fails to land any significant blows. (Rd 1 - 05:55) Baron tries to transition to full guard, but can't manage it. (Rd 1 - 05:38) Marcello looks to pass half guard and get side control. (Rd 1 - 05:38) He passes half guard, but Baron was ready and immediately starts to scramble. (Rd 1 - 05:24) The scramble leaves Baron on his back pulling half guard. (Rd 1 - 05:10) Marcello attempts to pass half guard. (Rd 1 - 05:10) He gets past half guard, gaining side control. (Rd 1 - 04:21) Marcello looks to get a mount. (Rd 1 - 04:21) Baron can't stop it and gets mounted. (Rd 1 - 03:46) Marcello pounds away, but Baron isn't troubled by the strikes. (Rd 1 - 03:26) Marcello blocks Baron as he tries a sweep. (Rd 1 - 03:03) Marcello unloads with big right hands, landing several that clearly hurt Baron. (Rd 1 - 03:03) Baron tries to turn away from the blows but gets rolled and Marcello has his back! (Rd 1 - 02:46) Marcello attempts to complete a rear naked choke. (Rd 1 - 02:46) Baron defends himself well against the choke. (Rd 1 - 02:17) Marcello blocks an attempt to roll him off of the back. (Rd 1 - 01:52) Marcello tries to put Baron in a rear naked choke. (Rd 1 - 01:52) Baron stops Marcello from getting his arm under the chin and completing the choke. (Rd 1 - 01:20) Marcello blocks an attempt to roll him off of the back. (Rd 1 - 00:56) The end of the round is coming quick, there's under a minute left. (Rd 1 - 00:56) Marcello successfully gets both hooks in, and seems primed to finish. (Rd 1 - 00:31) With both hooks in and therefore great control of the body, Marcello tries to finish Baron off with a rear naked choke. (Rd 1 - 00:31) Baron doesn't allow the rear naked choke to be applied. (Rd 1 - 00:14) Marcello keeps both hooks, despite Baron trying to pull them apart. (Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one ends as time expires. That was a yawner of a round, and I think both fighters are now a bit frustrated. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 2</div> (Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell for the start of the final round! (Rd 2 - 04:45) Up close, they start wrestling. (Rd 2 - 04:45) Baron manages to get control of the clinch. (Rd 2 - 04:37) Baron looks to set up a judo throw. (Rd 2 - 04:37) Baron gets side control off a superb outside leg trip! (Rd 2 - 04:23) Baron looks to get a mount. (Rd 2 - 04:23) Baron almost gets mount, but Marcello was ready and a scramble for position ensues. (Rd 2 - 04:08) Marcello scrambles to his feet, but Baron immediately drives him up against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 03:54) Baron looks to set up a judo throw. (Rd 2 - 03:54) It doesn't work, Marcello defended against it well. (Rd 2 - 03:43) Baron looks to set up a judo throw. (Rd 2 - 03:43) An outside leg trip sweeps Marcello down to the ground where he is left on his back pulling guard! (Rd 2 - 03:28) In guard, Baron is content just to throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 2 - 02:58) Baron throws several small strikes at Marcello, always keeping close body-to-body contact so that he has no space to work with. (Rd 2 - 02:46) Marcello tries to get double underhooks on Baron so that he can get some control, but can't get them. (Rd 2 - 02:37) Baron peppers Marcello with small strikes, making sure to keep very tight and not give him any room to work with. (Rd 2 - 02:25) Baron doesn't let Marcello pull him in close to be smothered. (Rd 2 - 02:15) For the moment Baron is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 2 - 01:45) In guard, Baron is content just to throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 2 - 01:16) Baron gets pulled in tight, stopping him from posturing up or launching any attacks. (Rd 2 - 00:42) Baron throws some minor strikes. (Rd 2 - 00:15) Baron clings very tight to Marcello while using short strikes, clearly trying to minimise the threat of a submission attempt. (Rd 2 - 00:03) Marcello tries to smother Baron by holding him, but can't keep control. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The time expires on round two, and that is the end of the fight. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The judges' decisions are now being announced. (Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have given Marcello the win. (Rd 2 - 00:00) So the winner, by unanimous decision, is Cristiano Marcello! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Cristiano Marcello def. David Baron by Unanimous Decision. Lightweight Bout Dokonjonosuke Mishima (18-8-2) vs. Jorge Masvidal (13-2)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Next up, Dokonjonosuke Mishima (18-8-2, 2-4 PRIDE) competing against Jorge 'Gamebred' Masvidal (13-2, 1-0 PRIDE). Mario Yamasaki will be the referee. The judges for this bout are: Joe Ancona, Takenaka Suzu, and Konishi Bunzo. About to fight in front of a home crowd, Mishima unsurprisingly gets a loud ovation from the crowd as he makes his entrance. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins! (Rd 1 - 10:00) The two fighters touch gloves. (Rd 1 - 09:45) Masvidal comes in looking to strike. (Rd 1 - 09:45) Masvidal lands a left jab, but Mishima dodges the roundhouse body kick that comes next. (Rd 1 - 09:21) Masvidal hits a left hand, but a spin kick fails to make contact. (Rd 1 - 08:56) Masvidal moves in closer, ready to attack. (Rd 1 - 08:56) A jab hits home from Masvidal and then he catches Mishima with a right roundhouse kick to the body. (Rd 1 - 08:33) Masvidal can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then lands a big right hand. (Rd 1 - 08:33) His jaw may have been damaged by that shot, Mishima looks hurt. (Rd 1 - 08:22) A jab is wide from Masvidal, but then he hits Mishima with a body kick. (Rd 1 - 07:56) Masvidal lands a left jab, but finds nothing but air with a big right. (Rd 1 - 07:34) Masvidal lands a left hand and then scores with a right roundhouse kick to the ribs. (Rd 1 - 07:17) Masvidal looks confident, shortening the range as he looks to strike. (Rd 1 - 07:17) Masvidal lands a jab and then lands a big right hand. (Rd 1 - 06:58) It looked like we were about to see a shot from Mishima, but Masvidal was more aggressive and took the initiative. (Rd 1 - 06:58) Masvidal lands a left hand and then hits Mishima with a beauty of a straight right. (Rd 1 - 06:42) Masvidal closes in on Mishima, looking to unleash some strikes. (Rd 1 - 06:42) Masvidal can't hit a set-up left jab, but then catches Mishima with a right roundhouse kick to the body. (Rd 1 - 06:21) Masvidal lands a jab and then catches Mishima with a right roundhouse kick to the body. (Rd 1 - 06:13) Masvidal is slowing just a little as he starts to get into the gas tank a bit. (Rd 1 - 05:58) A jab is wide from Masvidal, but then he lands a big right hand. (Rd 1 - 05:46) Mishima isn't rushing in, worried about potentially getting hit if he gets close enough to grapple. (Rd 1 - 05:46) Masvidal lands a left jab, but Mishima dodges the roundhouse body kick that comes next. (Rd 1 - 05:22) Mishima lands a weak, tentative jab. (Rd 1 - 05:22) Masvidal can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then catches Mishima with a spin kick to the body. (Rd 1 - 05:03) There's a takedown attempt from Mishima. (Rd 1 - 05:03) Masvidal almost got away but not quite; he is left hopping while Mishima has hold of one leg. (Rd 1 - 05:03) Unable to complete the takedown, Mishima instead pushes Masvidal up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 04:52) We pass the halfway mark of this round. (Rd 1 - 04:52) With Masvidal stuck against the ropes, Mishima tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs. (Rd 1 - 04:52) The takedown is completed, Masvidal is on his back and pulls half guard. (Rd 1 - 04:32) Mishima throws a few strikes, but they are without venom. (Rd 1 - 04:07) Mishima throws a few strikes, but is clearly slowing things down so that he can catch his breath. (Rd 1 - 03:42) Mishima punches down at Masvidal, but they are easily taken on the gloves. (Rd 1 - 03:17) Masvidal tries to move from half guard to full guard, but Mishima doesn't allow it. (Rd 1 - 03:03) In half guard, Mishima catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 1 - 02:43) Masvidal tries to get full guard on Mishima but doesn't get anywhere. (Rd 1 - 02:28) With no progress being made, referee Mario Yamasaki brings the fighters back to their feet. (Rd 1 - 02:18) Masvidal can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then lands a roundhouse kick to the body. (Rd 1 - 02:03) Masvidal fails to find a home for his jab, but then catches Mishima with a right roundhouse kick to the body. (Rd 1 - 01:47) Mishima shoots in, looking for a takedown. (Rd 1 - 01:47) Mishima came in way too slow and Masvidal lets him run headlong straight into a vicious knee to the head! (Rd 1 - 01:47) Masvidal doesn't even need to follow up, Mishima is out like a light! (Rd 1 - 01:47) The winner, by knock out, is Jorge 'Gamebred' Masvidal! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Jorge Masvidal def. Dokonjonosuke Mishima by KO (Knee) in 8:13 of Round 1. Middleweight Bout Ian Freeman (19-8-1) vs. Roger Gracie (2-1)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>In the last of the preliminary fights, Ian 'The Machine' Freeman (19-8-1, 0-0 PRIDE) takes on Roger Gracie (2-1, 1-1 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Middleweight division. The referee is Mario Yamasaki. The judges for this bout are: Tetsuzan Watoga, Joe Ancona, and Takenaka Suzu. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go! (Rd 1 - 10:00) We start with a touch of gloves. (Rd 1 - 09:48) Gracie chooses to shoot in on Freeman. (Rd 1 - 09:48) Freeman partially defends it and ends up hopping on one foot while Gracie has a hold of the other. (Rd 1 - 09:48) Unable to complete the takedown, Gracie instead pushes Freeman up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 09:37) With the ropes trapping Freeman, Gracie looks for a trip takedown. (Rd 1 - 09:37) Gracie can't get Freeman down to the ground. (Rd 1 - 09:37) Freeman remains trapped against the ropes though, and can't seem to get free. (Rd 1 - 09:20) Gracie looks to sweep a leg out from under Freeman so as to take him down with a trip. (Rd 1 - 09:20) Freeman has no answer to a slick trip, he is left down under side control! (Rd 1 - 09:02) Gracie tries to get into the mount position. (Rd 1 - 09:02) Gracie takes the back instead, Freeman rolled over rather than get mounted. (Rd 1 - 08:41) Gracie tries to finish Freeman off with a rear naked choke. (Rd 1 - 08:41) Freeman doesn't allow the arm to go under his chin. (Rd 1 - 08:22) Freeman tries to move Gracie off his back but can't. (Rd 1 - 08:11) Gracie tries to put Freeman in a rear naked choke. (Rd 1 - 08:11) Freeman doesn't allow the rear naked choke to be applied. (Rd 1 - 07:43) Freeman tries to turn over. (Rd 1 - 07:43) Gracie loses the back, but scrambles back to his feet to face Freeman. (Rd 1 - 07:10) Gracie chooses to shoot in on Freeman. (Rd 1 - 07:10) Freeman partially defends it and ends up hopping on one foot while Gracie has a hold of the other. (Rd 1 - 07:10) Unable to complete the takedown, Gracie instead pushes Freeman up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 06:59) Gracie traps Freeman up against the ropes, using double underhooks for control. (Rd 1 - 06:59) They remain there for at least a minute, hitting each other with short punches to the body and side of the head. (Rd 1 - 05:52) Showing good control, Gracie keeps Freeman stuck against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 05:52) The next minute becomes a stalemate as neither fighter risks leaving a crucial opening that the other can exploit. (Rd 1 - 04:40) Having been stuck against the ropes for a while without any progress, referee Mario Yamasaki brings them back to the center. (Rd 1 - 04:40) Gracie is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy. (Rd 1 - 04:33) Gracie shoots in, looking for a takedown. (Rd 1 - 04:33) Freeman almost got away but not quite; he is left hopping while Gracie has hold of one leg. (Rd 1 - 04:33) Gracie can't get Freeman down and so settles for pushing him up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 04:21) Gracie looks to take Freeman down with a trip. (Rd 1 - 04:21) Freeman is taken down by a quick inside leg trip, he can do nothing but pull guard! (Rd 1 - 04:06) Gracie looks to pass guard and get side control. (Rd 1 - 04:06) Gracie gets past, but Freeman stops him at half guard. (Rd 1 - 03:25) Gracie fires off some rights, but Freeman isn't troubled by them. (Rd 1 - 03:14) Gracie throws a few strikes, but they are without venom. (Rd 1 - 02:55) Gracie starts trying to work to get out of half guard and into a better position. (Rd 1 - 02:55) He gets past half guard, gaining side control. (Rd 1 - 02:04) It appears that Gracie is looking for a crucifix. (Rd 1 - 02:04) He can't get it hooked, Freeman is struggling too hard. (Rd 1 - 01:46) Gracie throws a few right hands to the body. (Rd 1 - 01:17) In side control, Gracie catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 1 - 00:55) There's under a minute left in this round. (Rd 1 - 00:55) Gracie tries to get into the mount position. (Rd 1 - 00:55) Freeman rolls to the side to try and escape the mount but only succeeds in giving up his back instead. (Rd 1 - 00:17) Gracie tries to pound on Freeman, but none of the blows land with any degree of power. (Rd 1 - 00:05) Freeman tries to turn over and sweep Gracie but can't do it. (Rd 1 - 00:00) Time expires and we come to the end of round one. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 2</div> (Rd 2 - 05:00) Our last round, round two, begins! (Rd 2 - 04:55) A tired Gracie moves forward, looking for a takedown. (Rd 2 - 04:55) Freeman partially defends it and ends up hopping on one foot while Gracie has a hold of the other. (Rd 2 - 04:55) Gracie uses the position to drive Freeman up against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 04:41) With Freeman stuck against the ropes, Gracie tries to reap a leg with a sharp sweep in order to trip him to the floor. (Rd 2 - 04:41) Gracie can't get Freeman down to the ground. (Rd 2 - 04:25) With the ropes trapping Freeman, Gracie looks for a trip takedown. (Rd 2 - 04:25) An outside leg trip sweeps Freeman down to the ground where he is left on his back pulling half guard! (Rd 2 - 04:14) Gracie pounds away with rights, but Freeman covers up and only a couple manage to get through. (Rd 2 - 03:58) Freeman tries to sweep Gracie but can't do it. (Rd 2 - 03:38) Gracie fires off a few punches as he catches his breath. (Rd 2 - 03:12) Gracie throws a few right hands to the body. (Rd 2 - 02:52) Gracie blocks an attempted move from half guard to full guard. (Rd 2 - 02:40) Gracie throws a few strikes, but they are without venom. (Rd 2 - 02:19) Freeman tries to transition to full guard, but can't manage it. (Rd 2 - 02:01) Gracie fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves. (Rd 2 - 01:35) Freeman tries a sweep from the bottom of half guard, but doesn't budge Gracie. (Rd 2 - 01:07) Gracie keeps Freeman guessing with a few quick strikes. (Rd 2 - 00:44) The referee decides that there is a lack of progress being made and stands them back up. (Rd 2 - 00:44) Freeman is slowing just a little as he starts to get into the gas tank a bit. (Rd 2 - 00:44) Gracie appears to be feeling a little fatigue for the first time in this fight, his hands are starting to lower just a fraction. (Rd 2 - 00:31) Gracie isn't rushing in, worried about potentially getting hit if he shoots in at the wrong moment. (Rd 2 - 00:31) Freeman throws a quick one-two but doesn't land either blow. (Rd 2 - 00:19) Gracie takes the chance and shoots on Freeman. (Rd 2 - 00:13) Gracie looks very tired out there. (Rd 2 - 00:13) Freeman almost got away but not quite; he is left hopping while Gracie has hold of one leg. (Rd 2 - 00:13) Unable to complete the takedown, Gracie instead pushes Freeman up against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 00:01) Freeman is pressed up against the ropes and held there by his fatigued-looking opponent. (Rd 2 - 00:01) The rest of the round sees them doing very little other than throwing occasional short punches to the body. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The time runs out and that round is over, and so is the fight. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The official decisions are being reported now. (Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges give the result in favour of Gracie. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The winner, by unanimous decision, is Roger Gracie! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Roger Gracie def. Ian Freeman by Unanimous Decision. <div style="text-align:center;">Main Card</div> Heavyweight Bout Vinny Magalhaes (4-1-1 NC) vs. Rousimar Palhares (7-2)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>We open the main portion of the show with Vinny 'Pezao' Magalhaes (4-1-1 NC, 1-0 PRIDE) squaring off with Rousimar 'Toquinho' Palhares (7-2, 0-0 PRIDE). Mario Yamasaki is the referee for this fight. Our ringside judges are: Tetsuzan Watoga, Joe Ancona, and Takenaka Suzu. Both fighters came in at the same weight at yesterday's weigh ins, but Magalhaes clearly has a significant weight advantage now. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway! (Rd 1 - 09:46) Magalhaes hits a left hand, but Palhares dodges a big right head kick follow-up. (Rd 1 - 09:20) There's a takedown attempt from Palhares. (Rd 1 - 09:20) The takedown is unsuccessful, Magalhaes sprawled to block it and then steps back to safety. (Rd 1 - 08:58) Magalhaes rolls his shoulders to relieve a little of the tension that has built up, then moves forward. (Rd 1 - 08:49) Palhares aggressively moves in, risking taking strikes for the chance of getting some grappling started. (Rd 1 - 08:49) Magalhaes hits a left hand, but misses with a vicious right hand. (Rd 1 - 08:38) Palhares gets hold of Magalhaes without taking too much damage. (Rd 1 - 08:32) Looking to take this fight to the ground, Palhares tries to pull Magalhaes down into his guard. (Rd 1 - 08:32) The attempt is unsuccessful, Magalhaes blocked it and takes control of the grappling. (Rd 1 - 08:14) Magalhaes is looking to muscle Palhares back against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:14) Palhares ends up backed against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 07:56) Magalhaes attempts a trip to put Palhares on the ground. (Rd 1 - 07:56) An outside leg trip sweeps Palhares down to the ground where he is left on his back pulling half guard! (Rd 1 - 07:38) In half guard, Magalhaes catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 1 - 07:12) Palhares uses an underhook to work some separation, then quickly scrambles. (Rd 1 - 07:12) It's a bad choice though, as Magalhaes seizes the opportunity to leap forward and secure side control. (Rd 1 - 06:47) Magalhaes throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move. (Rd 1 - 06:24) Palhares tries to move to guard, but Magalhaes doesn't allow it. (Rd 1 - 06:13) Magalhaes pounds away, but Palhares calmly deals with them. (Rd 1 - 05:53) Palhares tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it. (Rd 1 - 05:33) Magalhaes throws a few strikes, but is clearly slowing things down so that he can catch his breath. (Rd 1 - 05:07) Stuck under side control, Palhares takes a knee to the ribs. (Rd 1 - 04:55) We go past the halfway point of this round. (Rd 1 - 04:55) Palhares takes a knee strike to the ribs from under side control. (Rd 1 - 04:41) Magalhaes throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move. (Rd 1 - 04:18) Palhares tries to move to guard, but Magalhaes doesn't allow it. (Rd 1 - 04:03) Magalhaes tries to get into the mount position. (Rd 1 - 04:03) Palhares fights the attempted mount off, and they wind up scrambling for position. (Rd 1 - 03:49) The scramble sees Palhares up first, and he is quick to wrestle Magalhaes up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 03:38) Palhares goes low and comes up holding a single leg, leaving Magalhaes hopping and in danger of getting taken down. (Rd 1 - 03:38) Palhares drags Magalhaes to the floor, but gets caught in guard. (Rd 1 - 03:26) Palhares looks to get past the guard. (Rd 1 - 03:26) Palhares passes guard, but Magalhaes was ready and a scramble for position ensues. (Rd 1 - 03:12) The scramble sees Magalhaes up first, and he is quick to grab a waist lock on Palhares, gaining back control. (Rd 1 - 02:14) Magalhaes looks for a trip takedown while holding Palhares from behind. (Rd 1 - 02:14) Magalhaes struggles at first, but once he manages to get a good grip Palhares is unable to do anything further to stop the takedown. (Rd 1 - 02:01) Magalhaes gets side control off the takedown. (Rd 1 - 02:01) Magalhaes holds Palhares in position with side control and hits a knee into the ribs. (Rd 1 - 01:41) Magalhaes fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves. (Rd 1 - 01:21) Palhares tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it. (Rd 1 - 01:04) Magalhaes fires off a few punches as he catches his breath. (Rd 1 - 00:45) Magalhaes tries to pound on Palhares, but all the blows are comfortably dealt with. (Rd 1 - 00:25) Magalhaes blocks Palhares as he tries a transition to guard. (Rd 1 - 00:14) Magalhaes pounds away, but Palhares isn't troubled by the strikes. (Rd 1 - 00:01) Palhares tries to pull guard on Magalhaes but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt. (Rd 1 - 00:00) The time is up, and that's the end of round one. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 2</div> (Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell for the start of the final round! (Rd 2 - 04:55) Palhares comes in, looking for a takedown. (Rd 2 - 04:55) Magalhaes almost stops the takedown but is left hopping on one leg while Palhares holds the other. (Rd 2 - 04:55) Palhares drives Magalhaes up against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 04:36) Magalhaes wrestles back against Palhares, turning him around so that he now has his back to the ropes. (Rd 2 - 04:16) Magalhaes attempts a trip to put Palhares on the ground. (Rd 2 - 04:16) It doesn't work, Palhares defended against it well. (Rd 2 - 03:59) Magalhaes looks to take Palhares down with a trip. (Rd 2 - 03:59) Palhares stops the attempted trip, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple and put Magalhaes against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 03:36) Showing his ability to grind down opponents, Palhares is keeping Magalhaes pressed up tightly against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 03:36) They spend the next half a minute in that position, hitting each other with short punches to the body and side of the head. (Rd 2 - 03:05) Palhares drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down. (Rd 2 - 03:05) He gets a big takedown and he manages to get side control as a result. (Rd 2 - 02:45) Palhares attempts to move to mount. (Rd 2 - 02:45) Magalhaes fights the attempted mount off, and they wind up scrambling for position. (Rd 2 - 02:32) Neither fighter manages to impose himself in the scramble, and they both end up standing. (Rd 2 - 02:18) Magalhaes is breathing very hard. (Rd 2 - 02:18) Taking a few gulps of breath, Palhares is giving the first hint that he is starting to tire a touch. (Rd 2 - 02:04) Palhares had looked like he was angling for a takedown attempt, but couldn't take the initiative. (Rd 2 - 02:04) Magalhaes hits a left hand, but misses with a vicious right hand. (Rd 2 - 01:45) Magalhaes moves in closer, looking to open up and attack. (Rd 2 - 01:45) Magalhaes fails to land any of the strikes in a combo that ended with an attempted head kick. (Rd 2 - 01:19) Magalhaes throws a punch but Palhares avoids it. (Rd 2 - 01:04) Magalhaes aggressively moves in and grapples with Palhares. (Rd 2 - 00:51) We have one minute of the round remaining. (Rd 2 - 00:51) Palhares out-wrestles Magalhaes and takes control of the grapple. (Rd 2 - 00:29) Palhares is looking to muscle Magalhaes back against the ropes. (Rd 2 - 00:29) Palhares can't manage it, Magalhaes fought it. (Rd 2 - 00:15) Palhares tries to take Magalhaes down. (Rd 2 - 00:15) Magalhaes cannot stop the takedown and has to pull half guard. (Rd 2 - 00:02) Palhares fires away with punches, but Magalhaes doesn't take any undue damage. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The fight comes to an end as the time limit expires. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The judges' decisions are now being announced. (Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have given Magalhaes the win. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The winner, by unanimous decision, is Vinny 'Pezao' Magalhaes! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Vinny Magalhaes def. Rousimar Palhares by Unanimous Decision. Welterweight Bout Jason Black (24-2-1) vs. Royce Gracie (13-5-1)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>Moving on to the next match, in which 'The Black Legion' Jason Black (24-2-1, 0-1 PRIDE) faces Royce Gracie (13-5-1, 1-4-1 PRIDE) . Our referee is Marc Goddard. Our ringside judges are: Konishi Bunzo, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Tetsuzan Watoga. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway! (Rd 1 - 10:00) They touch gloves. (Rd 1 - 09:45) Moving in fast, Black wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch. (Rd 1 - 09:25) From the grapple, Black tries to pick Gracie up on his shoulder for a slam. (Rd 1 - 09:25) Gracie has no answers, he gets lifted up and planted down! Black ends up with side control. (Rd 1 - 09:12) Black fires off some rights, but Gracie isn't troubled by them. (Rd 1 - 08:54) Black blocks Gracie as he tries a transition to guard. (Rd 1 - 08:38) Black fires off some rights, but Gracie isn't troubled by them. (Rd 1 - 08:27) Black blocks Gracie as he tries a transition to guard. (Rd 1 - 08:11) Black throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move. (Rd 1 - 07:41) Black fires away with punches, but does little in the way of damage. (Rd 1 - 07:26) Black blocks an attempt to pull guard. (Rd 1 - 07:15) Black throws a few right hands as he takes a moment to plan ahead. (Rd 1 - 06:58) Black fires away with rights, but does little in the way of actual damage. (Rd 1 - 06:45) Gracie tries to pull guard on Black but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt. (Rd 1 - 06:27) Black pounds away with punches but can't quite land anything with any power. (Rd 1 - 06:15) Gracie tries to move to guard, but Black doesn't allow it. (Rd 1 - 06:02) The referee decides that there is a lack of progress being made and stands them back up. (Rd 1 - 05:55) Black chooses to shoot in on Gracie. (Rd 1 - 05:55) Gracie almost stops the takedown but is left hopping on one leg while Black holds the other. (Rd 1 - 05:55) Unable to complete the takedown, Black instead pushes Gracie up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 05:31) Black ducks down and grabs a leg. Gracie remains standing, using the ropes for support, but is under threat of a takedown now. (Rd 1 - 05:31) Gracie manages to fight off the takedown, eventually pulling his leg free and moving to the center. (Rd 1 - 05:11) Gracie shoots in, looking for a takedown. (Rd 1 - 05:11) Black stops the takedown with a great sprawl; Gracie is forced down onto his hands and knees. (Rd 1 - 04:52) We are now at the halfway point of the round. (Rd 1 - 04:52) Black pounds away on Gracie but can't land anything significant. (Rd 1 - 04:40) Sensing a knee strike about to be thrown, Gracie scoots backward quickly and springs to his feet. (Rd 1 - 04:16) Black shoots in, looking for a takedown. (Rd 1 - 04:16) A great sprawl from Gracie prevents the takedown and allows him to push Black down onto his hands and knees. (Rd 1 - 04:04) Gracie hits a knee to the side of the head. (Rd 1 - 03:44) Gracie fires away with punches, but Black doesn't take any undue damage. (Rd 1 - 03:33) Taking advantage of a pause, Black stands up. (Rd 1 - 03:23) Taking a few gulps of breath, Gracie is giving the first hint that he is starting to tire a touch. (Rd 1 - 03:14) There's a takedown attempt from Black. (Rd 1 - 03:14) Gracie partially defends it and ends up hopping on one foot while Black has a hold of the other. (Rd 1 - 03:14) Unable to complete the takedown, Black instead pushes Gracie up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 02:56) Black tries to take Gracie down. (Rd 1 - 02:56) Gracie blocks the takedown attempt and turns Black around so that he has his back to the ropes. (Rd 1 - 02:27) Gracie looks to take Black down with a trip. (Rd 1 - 02:27) It's unsuccessful, Black maintained a good solid base. (Rd 1 - 02:09) Gracie looks to sweep a leg out from under Black so as to take him down with a trip. (Rd 1 - 02:09) Black blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base. (Rd 1 - 01:51) With Black stuck against the ropes, Gracie tries to use a trip takedown. (Rd 1 - 01:51) Black blocks the attempted trip and turns Gracie around so that he has his back to the ropes. (Rd 1 - 01:28) Black goes to use some dirty boxing, but Gracie is aware of the danger and uses wrestling to prevent any damage from happening. (Rd 1 - 01:11) Gracie looks very tired out there. (Rd 1 - 01:11) Black tries to use his dirty boxing skills, but Gracie uses wrestling to prevent any strikes from being launched. (Rd 1 - 00:55) We move into the final sixty seconds of this round. (Rd 1 - 00:55) Gracie waits for Black to try and throw some strikes and quickly turns him, creating enough space to escape away from the ropes. (Rd 1 - 00:43) For the first time, Black is starting to breathe a little heavier. (Rd 1 - 00:32) Gracie moves in and clinches. (Rd 1 - 00:14) Gracie attempts a leg-sweep trip to put Black on the ground. (Rd 1 - 00:14) Black blocks the attempted trip and takes control of the grapple. (Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one is brought to an end as time runs out. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 2</div> (Rd 2 - 05:00) And here we go, one last round! (Rd 2 - 04:47) Moving in fast, Gracie wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch. (Rd 2 - 04:31) Gracie looks to set up a trip takedown. (Rd 2 - 04:31) Gracie doesn't get the trip, Black instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple. (Rd 2 - 04:10) Black attempts to wrestle Gracie to the ground. (Rd 2 - 04:10) The takedown is ugly but ultimately successful, he ends up on top of a turtled up Gracie, holding him in a loose facelock-type hold. (Rd 2 - 03:54) Black prepares to throw a knee strike, but can't keep control of Gracie who is able to spring back up. (Rd 2 - 03:40) Moving in fast, Gracie wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch. (Rd 2 - 03:23) Gracie tries to use a trip takedown. (Rd 2 - 03:23) Black stops the attempted trip, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple. (Rd 2 - 03:03) Black tries to take Gracie down. (Rd 2 - 03:03) The takedown is successful, Gracie pulls guard. (Rd 2 - 02:49) Black fires off some rights, but Gracie isn't troubled by them. (Rd 2 - 02:34) Gracie tries to smother Black by holding him, but can't keep control. (Rd 2 - 02:28) We move into the second half of this round. (Rd 2 - 02:28) Black throws some minor strikes. (Rd 2 - 02:09) Black fires off some rights, but Gracie isn't troubled by them. (Rd 2 - 01:50) Gracie tries to pull Black in close and smother him, but doesn't get anywhere with it. (Rd 2 - 01:43) Black tries to pound on Gracie, but none of the blows land with any degree of power. (Rd 2 - 01:23) Black doesn't allow Gracie to lock him up with double underhooks. (Rd 2 - 01:15) Black pounds away with right hands, but doesn't do much damage. (Rd 2 - 01:04) Gracie tries to get double underhooks on Black so that he can get some control, but can't get them. (Rd 2 - 00:56) We move into the final sixty seconds of this round. (Rd 2 - 00:56) Black throws a few strikes, but they are without venom. (Rd 2 - 00:31) Gracie applies double underhooks and keeps Black from launching any attacks. (Rd 2 - 00:10) Black pounds away, but Gracie isn't troubled by the strikes. (Rd 2 - 00:00) Time runs out and that's the end of the fight. (Rd 2 - 00:00) The judges have given their decisions, which are about to be announced. (Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have Black down as the winner. (Rd 2 - 00:00) 'The Black Legion' Jason Black is the winner by unanimous decision! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Jason Black def. Royce Gracie by Unanimous Decision. Heavyweight Bout Marcio Cruz (3-2) vs. Valentjin Overeem (28-23)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>The co-main event is up next. Marcio 'Pe de Pano' Cruz (3-2, 0-0 PRIDE) competes against Valentijn 'The Python' Overeem (28-23, 3-4 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Heavyweight division. The referee is Mario Yamasaki. Our judges at ringside are: Joe Ancona, Takenaka Suzu, and Konishi Bunzo. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell! (Rd 1 - 10:00) They start with a touch of gloves. (Rd 1 - 09:49) Cruz looked like he was about to shoot, but Overeem stepped in fast and started a clinch. (Rd 1 - 09:29) Overeem is trying to muscle Cruz up against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 09:29) Overeem achieves it, pinning Cruz to the ropes. (Rd 1 - 09:16) Overeem drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down. (Rd 1 - 09:16) Cruz blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base. (Rd 1 - 08:58) Overeem ducks down and grabs a leg. Cruz remains standing, using the ropes for support, but is under threat of a takedown now. (Rd 1 - 08:58) Cruz blocks the takedown by acting swiftly and pulling Overeem back into a tight clinch against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:44) Overeem goes low and comes up holding a single leg, leaving Cruz hopping and in danger of getting taken down. (Rd 1 - 08:44) The takedown isn't forthcoming, Cruz defended it well by grabbing Overeem and dragging him back into a tight clinch. (Rd 1 - 08:30) Overeem tries to take Cruz down. (Rd 1 - 08:30) Cruz stops the takedown attempt, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple and put Overeem against the ropes. (Rd 1 - 08:06) With Overeem stuck against the ropes, Cruz tries to use a trip takedown. (Rd 1 - 08:06) Cruz doesn't get it, Overeem blocked any attempt to move him. (Rd 1 - 08:06) Overeem remains trapped against the ropes though, and can't seem to get free. (Rd 1 - 07:47) Cruz looks to set up a trip takedown. (Rd 1 - 07:47) Overeem has no answer to a slick trip, he is left down under side control! (Rd 1 - 07:27) Cruz throws a few strikes, but is clearly slowing things down so that he can catch his breath. (Rd 1 - 07:06) Cruz blocks Overeem as he tries a transition to guard. (Rd 1 - 06:51) Cruz attempts the mount. (Rd 1 - 06:51) Overeem can't stop it and gets mounted. (Rd 1 - 06:12) Cruz pounds away with right hands and Overeem is having trouble doing anything about it! (Rd 1 - 06:12) With Overeem taking a beating, referee Mario Yamasaki has to stop the fight! (Rd 1 - 05:56) The winner, by TKO, is Marcio 'Pe de Pano' Cruz! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Marcio Cruz def. Valentjin Overeem by TKO (Strikes) in 4:04 of Round 1. Heavyweight Bout Hidehiko Yoshida (9-6-1) vs. Carmelo Marrero (7-2)</div></div></blockquote> <blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="52401" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>It's time for the main event of the evening! Hidehiko Yoshida (9-6-1, 6-5-1 PRIDE) faces Carmelo 'The Fury' Marrero (7-2, 1-0 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Heavyweight division. Refereeing this bout will be John McCarthy. The judges for this bout are: Takenaka Suzu, Konishi Bunzo, and Tsumemasa Kawakami. Marrero is much the larger fighter, at an estimate he must have 30lbs at least on Yoshida. That could prove significant as the fight unfolds. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 1</div> (Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell! (Rd 1 - 09:49) Yoshida gets in close and clinches with Marrero. (Rd 1 - 09:34) With Marrero in his grasp, Yoshida tries to set up a judo-style throw. (Rd 1 - 09:34) Yoshida can't get Marrero down to the ground. (Rd 1 - 09:16) Yoshida looks to take Marrero down by setting up a judo throw. (Rd 1 - 09:16) Yoshida doesn't get the throw, Marrero instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple. (Rd 1 - 09:02) Marrero looks for a trip takedown. (Rd 1 - 09:02) He has the takedown! Yoshida pulls guard. (Rd 1 - 08:50) Marrero pounds away with right hands, but doesn't do much damage. (Rd 1 - 08:38) Yoshida tries to ensnare an arm. (Rd 1 - 08:38) Marrero blocks it. (Rd 1 - 08:08) Marrero unloads with rights, but does fairly minimal damage. (Rd 1 - 07:56) Yoshida tries to lock onto an arm from the bottom of the guard. (Rd 1 - 07:56) Marrero doesn't let his arm get taken. (Rd 1 - 07:29) Marrero looks to pass guard and get side control. (Rd 1 - 07:29) Advancing his position fairly easily, he passes to side control. (Rd 1 - 06:52) Marrero fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves. (Rd 1 - 06:35) Yoshida tries to pull guard on Marrero but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt. (Rd 1 - 06:20) Marrero throws a few strikes, but is clearly slowing things down so that he can catch his breath. (Rd 1 - 05:53) Looking to catch his breath, Marrero is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body. (Rd 1 - 05:25) Marrero is trying to move from side control to mount. (Rd 1 - 05:25) Marrero shifts to mount. (Rd 1 - 04:48) Marrero pounds away and Yoshida eats a few big strikes. (Rd 1 - 04:29) Marrero unloads with right hands, but doesn't do a great deal of damage. (Rd 1 - 04:15) Marrero pounds away and Yoshida struggles to deal with them. (Rd 1 - 04:15) Yoshida turns and gives up his back in a desperate effort to avoid the strikes! (Rd 1 - 04:04) Marrero attempts to get a rear naked choke fully applied. (Rd 1 - 04:04) Yoshida fights off the rear naked choke attempt. (Rd 1 - 03:29) Yoshida tries to move Marrero off his back but can't. (Rd 1 - 03:09) Yoshida prevents Marrero from getting his hooks in. (Rd 1 - 02:51) Marrero blocks an attempt to roll him off of the back. (Rd 1 - 02:40) Marrero attempts to complete a rear naked choke. (Rd 1 - 02:40) Yoshida defends himself well against the choke. (Rd 1 - 02:07) Marrero blocks Yoshida as he tries to roll over. (Rd 1 - 01:43) Marrero gets both hooks in, and is now in a really dominant position. (Rd 1 - 01:19) Marrero, with both hooks fully in, tries to get the rear naked choke applied. (Rd 1 - 01:19) Yoshida doesn't allow the arm to go under his chin. (Rd 1 - 00:30) Yoshida looks very tired out there. (Rd 1 - 00:30) Marrero fires away with punches, but does little in the way of damage. (Rd 1 - 00:13) Marrero keeps both hooks, despite Yoshida trying to pull them apart. (Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one is brought to an end as time runs out. (Rd 1 - 00:00) Some fans are booing after a round that didn't feature much action. <div style="text-align:center;">Round 2</div> (Rd 2 - 05:00) Our last round, round two, begins! (Rd 2 - 04:48) Seeing his opponent about to shoot in, Yoshida timed it well and moved in to start a clinch. (Rd 2 - 04:37) With Marrero controlled by the clinch, Yoshida looks to be attempting to set up a judo throw. (Rd 2 - 04:37) Yoshida can't get the throw, as Marrero wrestles his way into a dominant position. (Rd 2 - 04:17) Marrero attempts to pick Yoshida up for a slam. (Rd 2 - 04:17) He gets Yoshida up! Marrero slams him down, ending up in guard. (Rd 2 - 04:05) Marrero is trying to pass guard. (Rd 2 - 04:05) He passes guard fairly easily, getting to side control. (Rd 2 - 03:18) Marrero tries to get into the mount position. (Rd 2 - 03:18) He can't get the mount as Yoshida rolls away to stop it, but does take his back instead. (Rd 2 - 02:53) Yoshida is in increasing trouble, as Marrero gets both hooks in. (Rd 2 - 02:28) We pass the halfway mark of this round. (Rd 2 - 02:28) Marrero, with both hooks in, attempts to get a rear naked choke fully applied. (Rd 2 - 02:28) Yoshida gets flattened out with the rear naked choke, he has to tap! (Rd 2 - 02:05) Carmelo 'The Fury' Marrero takes the win by submission! <div style="text-align:center;">Official Result: Carmelo Marrero def. Hidehiko Yoshida by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 2:55 of Round 2. PRIDE Bushido 17 Date: April 25, 2008 Venue: Osaka Dome Local: Osaka, Japan Attendance: 1,932 Gate: $ 486,864 Critical Rating: 64% Commercial Rating: 72% Main Card Heavyweight Bout: Carmelo Marrero def. Hidehiko Yoshida by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 2:55 of Round 2. Heavyweight Bout: Marcio Cruz def. Valentjin Overeem by TKO (Strikes) in 4:04 of Round 1. Welterweight Bout: Jason Black def. Royce Gracie by Unanimous Decision. Middleweight Bout: Vinny Magalhaes def. Rousimar Palhares by Unanimous Decision. Preliminary Card Middleweight Bout: Roger Gracie def. Ian Freeman by Unanimous Decision. Lightweight Bout: Jorge Masvidal def. Dokonjonosuke Mishima by KO (Knee) in 8:13 of Round 1. Lightweight Bout: Cristiano Marcello def. David Baron by Unanimous Decision. Welterweight Bout: Delson Heleno def. Brad Tavares by Submission (Armbar) in 4:22 of Round 1. Welterweight Bout: Josh Neer def. Ralek Gracie by Unanimous Decision. Welterweight Bout: Douglas Lima def. Shungo Oyama by Unanimous Decision. Welterweight Bout: Arman Gambaryan def. Evangelista Santos by Unanimous Decision. Lightweight Bout: Evan Dunham def. Milton Vieira by Unanimous Decision. <div style="text-align:center;">Bonus KO of the Night: Jorge Masvidal Submission of the Night: Carmelo Marrero Fight of the Night: Marcio Cruz vs. Valentjin Overeem</div> POST FIGHT <img src=https://i.imgur.com/TwXQehx.png> - Marrero said he was very happy to win one of the best Japanese fighters and hopes to take ATT to the title of the competition. - Yoshida said he is sad about the defeat and apologized to the fans for today's performance. - Cruz was happy with his debut at PRIDE and hopes to have a long journey of success and hopes to help Chute Boxe become the tournament champion. - Black said that many doubted that he would be able to win a legend like Royce Gracie and thanked him for having accepted to face him. - Magalhaes thanked the support of Xtreme Couture and its sponsors. He also pointed out that Palhares was a tough opponent. <div style="text-align:center;"><img src=https://i.imgur.com/pFy8fPQ.png></div> PREDICTIONS CageRage (6-6) vladjarca (3-9) </div></div></blockquote>

rodrigoviolim · February 10, 2021

PRIDE BUSHIDO 18 AND PRIDE 43 LINEUP FINALIZED

by Sean Smith

This Monday afternoon, PRIDE FC announced the full cards of this month of May. The first will be the PRIDE Bushido 18 card, which will feature the next round of GP Featherweight as an attraction. The event will be led by PRIDE Lightweight Champion, 'Kid' Yamamoto who will fight against Ivan Menjivar.

Yamamoto became a lightweight and PRIDE GP champion, winning Takanori Gomi and Shinya Aoki on the same night, and now returns to his natural division for another title race.

Menjivar, so far, has had two fights in the PRIDE ring and won in both and will now have one of his toughest tests in his career when facing Yamamoto.

The card will also have Antonio Carvalho vs. Joachin Hansen, Brad Pickett vs. Takeshi Inoue, Kotetsu Boku vs. Wagnney Fabiano and more 8 bouts in preliminar card.

The following two weeks PRIDE will return to Saitama Super Arena with a heavyweight collide between Josh Barnett and Alistair Overeem. The winner will be Fedor Emelianenko's next challenger for the PRIDE heavyweight title.

Barnett and Overeem competed on the same PRIDE 41 card, Overeem defeated Bob Sapp in the main fight by knockout in the 20 seconds of the second round, while Josh Barnett was even more impressive in knocking out Gary Goodridge in just 17 seconds.

The co-main event features Nick Diaz against Josh Thomson. The rivals have been teasing each other for months and will put an end to this rivalry, which could give the winner a chance at the title against 'Kid' Yamamoto.

PRIDE Bushido 18 will take place at Makomanai Ice Arena in Sapporo, Japan and PRIDE 43 will take place at Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan. All cardsl broadcast by ESPN Africa, Eurosport Russia, SkySports 2, NHK, Polsat Sport, Fox Sports Asia, CBS Sports Network, ESPN Latin America and Fox Sports Australia. The card will also cover Blurcat.com's play by play with "The Voice" Matt Edwards and Daniel Tuxford.

Check out the full cards:

PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008

Date: May 16, 2008

Venue: Makomanai Ice Arena

Local: Sapporo, Japan

PRIDE 43: Forever

Date: May 31, 2008

Venue: Saitama Super Arena

Local: Saitama, Japan

MORE NEWS

Georges St.Pierre negotiations?

Sexyama hits back at Sobral

MMA Around the World - Results

PRIDE Bushido 17

Calendar - Upcoming Events

CW 33: Louiseau vs. Rupponen

EliteXC: Awad vs. Ruediger

PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008

Jungle Fight 13

UFC Fight Night: Serra vs. Sanchez

Pancrase: Stallings vs. Linhares

PRIDE 43: Forever

M-1: Thiago vs. Lennox

WEC 33: Wineland vs. Okazaki

Shooto: Matsune vs. Katsumura

MFC 17: Valimaki vs. Evans

KSW 12: Martela vs. Blachowicz

rodrigoviolim · February 10, 2021

Pound For Pound

Super Heavyweight

Heavyweight

Light Heavyweight

Middleweight

Welterweight

Lightweight

Featherweight

Bantamweight

Flyweight

This division does not have eligible 25 fighters

Women´s Pound For Pound

Women´s Featherweight>

This division does not have eligible 25 fighters

Women´s Bantamweight

This division does not have eligible 25 fighters

Women´s Flyweight

This division does not have eligible 25 fighters

Women´s Strawweight

This division does not have eligible 25 fighters

rodrigoviolim · February 10, 2021

PRIDE BUSHIDO 18: FEATHERWEIGHT GP 2008 WEIGH-IN RESULTS: ALL FIGHTERS MAKE WEIGHT

by Sean Smith

Today the PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008 weigh-in, which will take place tomorrow in Sapporo, Japan. All fighters have reached the combined weight and featherweight tournament continue normally as will the other eight fights that take place on the preliminary card.

In the main event, PRIDE lightweight champion, 'Kid' Yamamoto will make his debut in the competition against Ivan Menjivar. Both are unbeaten in PRIDE and will put the unbeaten in play in tomorrow's fight.

In addition to Yamamoto vs. Menjivar the event brings battles between: Antonio Carvalho vs. Joachin Hansen, Brad Pickett vs. Takeshi Inoue and Kotetsu Boku vs. Wagnney Fabiano.

PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008 will take place at Makomanai Ice Arena in Sapporo, Japan. It will broadcast by ESPN Africa, Eurosport Russia, SkySports 2, NHK, Polsat Sport, Fox Sports Asia, CBS Sports Network, ESPN Latin America and Fox Sports Australia. The card will also cover Blurcat.com's play by play with "The Voice" Matt Edwards and Daniel Tuxford.

Check out the Results:

PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008

Date: May 16, 2008

Venue: Makomanai Ice Arena

Local: Sapporo, Japan

Main Card

Featherweight GP Bout: Norifumi Yamamoto (145 lbs) vs. Ivan Menjivar (145 lbs)

Featherweight GP Bout: Antonio Carvalho (145 lbs) vs. Joachin Hansen (145 lbs)

Featherweight GP Bout: Brad Pickett (145 lbs) vs. Takeshi Inoue (145 lbs)

Featherweight GP Bout: Kotetsu Boku (145 lbs) vs. Wagnney Fabiano (145 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Featherweight GP Reserve Bout: Mitsuhiro Ishida (145 lbs) vs. Andre Dida(145 lbs)

Featherweight GP Reserve Bout: Rumina Sato (145 lbs) vs. Bart Palaszewiski (145 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Krysztof Soszynski (205 lbs) vs. Kazuo Takahashi (205 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Daisuke Nakamura (165 lbs) vs. Charles Bennett (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Yoshiyuki Yoshida (185 lbs) vs. Daniel Acacio (185 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Ryo Kawamura (185 lbs) vs. Tim Boetsch (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Nick Aguillar (165 lbs) vs. Yusuke Endo (165 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Po'ai Suganuma (205 lbs) vs. Bernard Ackah (205 lbs)

MORE NEWS

Takada Dojo gain member

Sexyama hits back at Sobral

Machida continues to clash with Alexander

Seo Hee Ham spreads her wings

DREAM 5: Gassaway vs. Moks announced

PRIDE sign Georges St.Pierre

Nakao attacks Gracie

Shonie Carter retired

Thomson on Diaz

PRIDE Bushido 17 - Everyone clean

Sobral savages Sexyama

Injury forces Alexander Gustafsson replacement

Landi-Jons savages Bustamante

Louiseau defends title

Coenen wins title

MMA Around the World - Results

CW 33: Louiseau vs. Rupponen

EliteXC: Awad vs. Ruediger

Calendar - Upcoming Events

PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008

Jungle Fight 13

UFC Fight Night: Serra vs. Sanchez

Pancrase: Stallings vs. Linhares

PRIDE 43: Forever

M-1: Thiago vs. Lennox

WEC 33: Wineland vs. Okazaki

Shooto: Matsune vs. Katsumura

MFC 17: Valimaki vs. Evans

KSW 12: Martela vs. Blachowicz

CageRage · February 10, 2021

PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008

Date: May 16, 2008

Venue: Makomanai Ice Arena

Local: Sapporo, Japan

Main Card

Featherweight GP Bout: Norifumi Yamamoto (145 lbs) vs. Ivan Menjivar (145 lbs)

Featherweight GP Bout: Antonio Carvalho (145 lbs) vs. Joachin Hansen (145 lbs)

Featherweight GP Bout: Brad Pickett (145 lbs) vs. Takeshi Inoue (145 lbs)

Featherweight GP Bout: Kotetsu Boku (145 lbs) vs. Wagnney Fabiano (145 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Featherweight GP Reserve Bout: Mitsuhiro Ishida (145 lbs) vs. Andre Dida(145 lbs)

Featherweight GP Reserve Bout: Rumina Sato (145 lbs) vs. Bart Palaszewiski (145 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Krysztof Soszynski (205 lbs) vs. Kazuo Takahashi (205 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Daisuke Nakamura (165 lbs) vs. Charles Bennett (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Yoshiyuki Yoshida (185 lbs) vs. Daniel Acacio (185 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Ryo Kawamura (185 lbs) vs. Tim Boetsch (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Nick Aguillar (165 lbs) vs. Yusuke Endo (165 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Po'ai Suganuma (205 lbs) vs. Bernard Ackah (205 lbs)

rodrigoviolim · February 12, 2021

Matt Edwards (ME): Hi, I'm Matt Edwards! Live from Makomanai Ice Arena in Sapporo, Japan. GP Featherweight will have its second round today with the participation of lightweight champion 'Kid' Yamamoto who returns to the PRIDE ring in search of his second GP title and another belt for his title gallery, but on the other side the tough Ivan Menjivar wants shock the world tonight.

With me tonight my broadcast partner Daniel Tuxford.

Good night Daniel!

Daniel Tuxford (DT): Good night Matt and MMA fans! Yamamoto is back! And we're looking forward to how he will react on his return to 145 lbs. And of course the other GP fights will be fantastic and we expect a great event Matt.

ME: Come on! Here everything is ready for the opening of the event. And right after that we are already going to the first fight MMA fans, who will accompany us tonight on blurcat.com. Now it's up to her, the "PRIDE voice" Lenne Hardt!

Lenne Hardt: PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008!!!! Liveeeee Makomanai Ice Arena from Sapporo, Japan! Now here comes the full card!

The first match!!! From Ivory Coast, Bernard Ackah! From Hawaii, Po'ai Suganuma!

Second match; From Japan, Yusuke Endoooo! From USA, Nick Aguillar!

Third Match; From USA, Tiiim Boetschhh! From Japan, Ryo Kawamuraaa!

Fourth match; From Brazil, Daniel Acacioooo!! Frrrrrom Japan, Yoshiyuke Yoshidaaaa!!

Fifth match; From USA, Charles Bennett!! Frrrrrom Japan, Daisukeee Nakamuraaa!!

Sixth match; From Japan, Kazuo Takahashiiii!!! Frrrrom Canada, Kryzstof Soszynskiiiii!!

Seventh match; From USA, Bart Palaszewiskiiiiii!!!! Frooom Japan, Ruminoooo Satooooo!!!

Eighth match; From Brazil, Andreeee Didaaaa!! Frommm Japan Mitsuhiroooo Ishiiiidaaaa!!!

Ninth match; Frooom Brazil, Wagnney Fabianoooo!! From South Korea, Kotetsu Bokuuu!!

Tenth match; Froooooommm Japaaan, Takeshiiiii Inoueeee!! Frooom Englandddd, Brad Pickettttt!!!

Eleventh match; Froooooommm Norway, Jooooaaaachin Haaaaansen!! Frooom Canadaaaa, Antonio Carvalhoooooo!!!

Final match: Frooooom Canadaaaa, Ivaaaan Menjivaaaaar!!! Frooooooooommmm Japaaaaaan, 'Kid' Norifumiiiiiii Yamaaaamooootooooooo!!!!

PRIDE BUSHIDO 18: FEATHERWEIGHT GP 2008 LIVE IN MAKOMANAI ICE ARENAAAAAAAA IS NOOOOOOOW!!!!!!

Preliminary Card

Middleweight Bout

Po'ai Suganuma (8-2) vs. Bernard Ackah (1-1)

Our first prelim fight is up next, in which Po'ai Suganuma (8-2, 0-1 PRIDE) battles Bernard 'The Tragic Comedian' Ackah (1-1, 0-1 PRIDE).

The referee is Mario Yamasaki. Our judges are: Chris Lee, Junichiro Kamijo, and Tsumemasa Kawakami.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) They start with a touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:50) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 09:50) Ackah hits a left jab but misses a high kick.
(Rd 1 - 09:50) Suganuma scores with a great right hook.
(Rd 1 - 09:30) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 09:30) Suganuma misses a right hook and gets countered with a quick left jab and a big right hand that just misses.
(Rd 1 - 09:11) They come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 09:11) Ackah hits a left jab but can't get a kick to the body.
(Rd 1 - 09:11) Suganuma hits a jab and also connects cleanly with a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 08:42) Both fighters step in to strike.
(Rd 1 - 08:42) Suganuma dodges a right hand and counter-attacks with a great right hook.
(Rd 1 - 08:22) Both fighters come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 08:22) A brief strike exchange passes without either fighter landing.
(Rd 1 - 08:22) Suganuma doesn't connect with a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 08:22) Ackah doesn't connect with a left jab and also misses with a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 08:05) Both fighters move in and engage.
(Rd 1 - 08:05) Ackah misses a big right hand, putting him off balance and allowing Suganuma to attack with a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 07:42) They come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 07:42) Suganuma scores with a great right hook.
(Rd 1 - 07:42) Ackah misses a jab but launches a right head kick that did damage.
(Rd 1 - 07:29) Backing off, Suganuma stumbles and almost goes down...I think he is hurt!
(Rd 1 - 07:29) A big right hand from Ackah drops Suganuma!
(Rd 1 - 07:17) Ackah moves in quickly, kneeling beside Suganuma and starting to hammer down with punches!
(Rd 1 - 07:17) Ackah pounds away on Suganuma, who is getting destroyed by repeated heavy shots to the head!
(Rd 1 - 07:17) Referee Mario Yamasaki jumps in and saves Suganuma from taking any more shots!
(Rd 1 - 07:01) Bernard 'The Tragic Comedian' Ackah takes the win by TKO!

Official Result: Bernard Ackah def. Po'ai Suganuma by TKO (Strikes) in 2:59 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout
Nick Agallar (19-5) vs. Yusuke Endo (11-1-1)

Next up is a match in which Nick Agallar (19-5, 1-0 PRIDE) competes against Yusuke Endo (11-1-1, 0-0 PRIDE).

The referee is Yuji Shimada. Our judges at ringside are: Junichiro Kamijo, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

The fighters both weighed in at 165lbs yesterday, but now that they're about to fight it is obvious that Agallar is much bigger.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway!
(Rd 1 - 09:45) Seeing his opponent about to shoot in, Endo timed it well and moved in to start a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:26) Using his wrestling skills, Endo is trying to push Agallar up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:26) Endo can't move Agallar at all though, and finds himself being out-wrestled.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) Agallar attempts a leg-sweep trip to put Endo on the ground.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) Agallar doesn't get the trip, Endo instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 08:50) Endo is looking to muscle Agallar back against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:50) Endo can't move Agallar at all though, and finds himself being out-wrestled.
(Rd 1 - 08:31) With control of the clinch, Agallar tries to complete a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 08:31) Endo blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base.
(Rd 1 - 08:12) Agallar attempts to wrestle Endo to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 08:12) Endo stops the takedown attempt, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 07:43) Endo can't keep control, and Agallar wrestles himself into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 07:13) Clinched with Endo, Agallar looks to try and take him down.
(Rd 1 - 07:13) The takedown doesn't work, Endo blocked it and then takes control of the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 06:57) Endo catches Agallar with a knee strike to the body from the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 06:39) Endo is looking to muscle Agallar back against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 06:39) Endo can't do it though, and Agallar gets a more dominant position in the grapple instead.
(Rd 1 - 06:15) Clinched with Endo, Agallar looks to try and take him down.
(Rd 1 - 06:15) It doesn't work, Endo defended against it well.
(Rd 1 - 06:03) Agallar separates from Endo and we're back to a stand-off.
(Rd 1 - 05:38) Agallar shoots in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 05:38) Endo stops the takedown with a great sprawl. He steps away to safety.
(Rd 1 - 05:17) The fighters get in close and clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:17) Agallar wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:11) With control of the clinch, Agallar tries to complete a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 05:11) Agallar doesn't get the takedown, Endo instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 04:51) We pass the halfway mark of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:51) Endo is trying to push Agallar so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:51) Agallar ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:34) Agallar takes a sharp stomp to the foot.
(Rd 1 - 04:27) Endo looks for a foot stomp but Agallar works enough space that he can pull clear and circle out.
(Rd 1 - 04:16) Agallar is still moving well, but he is definitely breathing a little deeper now.
(Rd 1 - 04:09) Endo aggressively moves in and grapples with Agallar.
(Rd 1 - 03:56) Endo is trying to push Agallar so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:56) He does so and now has Agallar pinned to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:37) With Agallar stuck against the ropes, Endo tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs.
(Rd 1 - 03:37) The takedown doesn't work, Agallar blocked it and then turns it so that Endo is the one against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:13) With Endo stuck against the ropes, Agallar tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs.
(Rd 1 - 03:13) Endo fights it as best he can, but ultimately ends up on his hands and knees with Agallar on top and facing him.
(Rd 1 - 03:02) Seeing that a soccer kick is about to be thrown to the body, Endo springs to his feet.
(Rd 1 - 02:37) Seeing his opponent about to shoot in, Endo timed it well and moved in to start a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 02:26) Endo is trying to push Agallar so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 02:26) Agallar out-wrestles him though.
(Rd 1 - 02:10) Agallar attempts to wrestle Endo to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 02:10) Endo stops the takedown attempt, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 01:51) Endo tries to wrestle Agallar backward and up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:51) Endo achieves it, pinning Agallar to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:39) Endo drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down.
(Rd 1 - 01:39) The takedown is successful, Agallar pulls guard.
(Rd 1 - 01:22) Endo throws a few right hands to the body.
(Rd 1 - 00:54) The end of the round is coming quick, there's under a minute left.
(Rd 1 - 00:54) Endo pounds away with right hands, but doesn't do much damage.
(Rd 1 - 00:54) Endo gets pushed back, and is left standing in front of Agallar, no longer in guard.
(Rd 1 - 00:37) Endo tries to secure a ground position.
(Rd 1 - 00:37) Agallar stops Endo at half guard, preventing him from getting side control.
(Rd 1 - 00:21) Endo pounds away, but is unable to land many clean shots on Agallar.
(Rd 1 - 00:01) Agallar tries to move from half guard to full guard, but Endo doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) Time expires and we come to the end of round one.

Not much happened in that round, hopefully the fighters will pick up the pace a bit when we restart.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell for the start of the final round!
(Rd 2 - 04:46) Agallar, who looks drained, comes forward looking for a takedown.
(Rd 2 - 04:46) Endo almost stops the takedown but is left hopping on one leg while Agallar holds the other.
(Rd 2 - 04:46) Agallar drives Endo up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:29) Unable to get free, Endo is smothered up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:29) They exchange short punches to the body for about half a minute.
(Rd 2 - 03:55) With the ropes trapping Endo, Agallar looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 2 - 03:55) Endo blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base.
(Rd 2 - 03:55) Endo can't seem to work his way free though.
(Rd 2 - 03:38) With Endo stuck against the ropes, Agallar tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs.
(Rd 2 - 03:38) The takedown is successful and he gets side control too.
(Rd 2 - 03:22) Agallar throws a few right hands to the body.
(Rd 2 - 02:57) Agallar blocks Endo as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 2 - 02:39) Agallar punches down at Endo, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 2 - 02:14) Agallar blocks Endo as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 2 - 02:01) Looking to catch his breath, Agallar is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 2 - 01:36) Endo tries to pull guard on Agallar but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 2 - 01:20) Agallar tries to ensnare Endo in an arm triangle.
(Rd 2 - 01:20) Endo fights off the arm triangle attempt.
(Rd 2 - 01:03) Endo tries to move to guard, but Agallar doesn't allow it.
(Rd 2 - 00:48) Referee Yuji Shimada decides that there is a lack of progress being made and stands them back up.
(Rd 2 - 00:48) Agallar is starting to have to push himself now, and his corner respond by urging him on a little louder.
(Rd 2 - 00:48) Endo is slowing just a little as he starts to get into the gas tank a bit.
(Rd 2 - 00:35) A tired Agallar moves forward, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 2 - 00:35) Agallar can't get past the sprawl of Endo and has to give up on the takedown.
(Rd 2 - 00:05) The fighters get in close and clinch.
(Rd 2 - 00:05) Agallar manages to get control of the clinch.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The time runs out and that round is over, and so is the fight.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The judges have given their decisions, which are about to be announced.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) Junichiro Kamijo: Endo.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) Tsumemasa Kawakami gives the result in favour of Agallar.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) Tetsuzan Watoga: Endo.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The winner, by split decision, is Yusuke Endo!

Official Result: Yusuke Endo def. Nick Agallar by Split Decision.

Welterweight Bout
Ryo Kawamura (7-2-2) vs. Tim Boetsch (5-1)

Moving on, Ryo Kawamura (7-2-2, 0-1 PRIDE) takes on 'The Barbarian' Tim Boetsch (5-1, 0-1 PRIDE).

Our referee is Yuji Shimada. Our judges at ringside are: Tetsuzan Watoga, Kanagi Fujimaro, and Chris Lee.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:45) Kawamura comes forward and the two fighters start trading blows.
(Rd 1 - 09:45) Boetsch hit two counter left hands.
(Rd 1 - 09:45) Kawamura throws a quick one-two but doesn't land either blow.
(Rd 1 - 09:29) Both fighters come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 09:29) Kawamura finds a good angle and lands a nice one-two.
(Rd 1 - 09:29) Boetsch connects cleanly with a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) Kawamura comes forward on the attack.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) Boetsch hit two counter left hands.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) Kawamura fails to find a home for his jab, but then he hits Boetsch with a beauty of a straight right.
(Rd 1 - 08:43) Kawamura throws a two-punch combo but Boetsch avoids both.
(Rd 1 - 08:29) Boetsch takes the chance and shoots on Kawamura.
(Rd 1 - 08:23) Kawamura almost got away but not quite; he is left hopping while Boetsch has hold of one leg.
(Rd 1 - 08:23) Unable to complete the takedown, Boetsch instead pushes Kawamura up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:07) Boetsch is looking to get Kawamura in a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 08:07) Boetsch manages it and now controls Kawamura by the back of the head.
(Rd 1 - 07:51) From the clinch, Kawamura gets caught with a massive knee to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 07:40) Boetsch keeps control of the clinch despite missing a knee strike.
(Rd 1 - 07:17) From the clinch, Kawamura gets caught with a massive knee to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 07:01) Boetsch tries a knee strike, but Kawamura blocks it and wrestles his way out of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 06:19) Both fighters meet in the center.
(Rd 1 - 06:19) Kawamura lands a one-two.
(Rd 1 - 06:19) Boetsch scores with a great right hook.
(Rd 1 - 06:06) Retreating, Kawamura looks punch-drunk...he may be in big trouble! He is covering up as best as he can, but is very unsteady on his feet!
(Rd 1 - 06:06) Boetsch is aiming to get Kawamura into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 06:06) He gets it and now has a dazed Kawamura in even more serious trouble.
(Rd 1 - 05:52) Kawamura partially blocks a knee strike, enough to allow him to wrestle free of the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:19) Kawamura is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 1 - 05:08) The two fighters engage with strikes but neither lands anything worthwhile.
(Rd 1 - 04:43) Kawamura fails to find a home for his jab, but then scores with a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 04:38) Boetsch is able to grab Kawamura.
(Rd 1 - 04:32) Boetsch is looking to get Kawamura in a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 04:32) Boetsch achieves it, Kawamura could not fight out of it.
(Rd 1 - 04:12) Using the clinch, Boetsch hits a vicious knee to the ribs of Kawamura.
(Rd 1 - 03:54) Boetsch misses a knee strike, but maintains his control of the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:20) From the clinch, Boetsch drives a huge knee to the stomach.
(Rd 1 - 03:08) Kawamura wrestles free of the Muay Thai clinch after blocking a knee strike.
(Rd 1 - 02:27) Kawamura hits a left hand, but Boetsch evades a big right punch.
(Rd 1 - 02:15) Kawamura is definitely slowing, his gas tank is being challenged here.
(Rd 1 - 02:10) Kawamura confidently comes in closer.
(Rd 1 - 02:10) It looked like we were about to see a shot from Boetsch, but Kawamura was more aggressive and took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 02:10) Kawamura can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then lands a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 01:47) Both fighters come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 01:47) Boetsch slips past a right hook attempt and attacks with a powerful straight right that landed cleanly!
(Rd 1 - 01:41) Kawamura doesn't look like he has much left in the tank.
(Rd 1 - 01:41) Kawamura hits the mat, that shot has rocked him!
(Rd 1 - 01:41) Boetsch moves in quickly, kneeling beside Kawamura and starting to hammer down with punches!
(Rd 1 - 01:41) Boetsch fires away with punches and Kawamura is taking powerful shot after powerful shot!
(Rd 1 - 01:41) The referee jumps in and saves Kawamura from taking any more shots!
(Rd 1 - 01:26) By TKO, the winner is Tim Boetsch!

Official Result: Tim Boetsch def. Ryo Kawamura by TKO (Strikes) in 8:34 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout
Yoshiyuki Yoshida (8-3) vs. Daniel Acacio (12-6)

Another match is about to begin; Yoshiyuki 'Zenko' Yoshida (8-3, 1-1 PRIDE) going up against Daniel Acacio (12-6, 3-2 PRIDE).

Mario Yamasaki is the referee for this fight. Our ringside judges are: Junichiro Kamijo, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We start with a touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:45) The two fighters come forward and engage.
(Rd 1 - 09:45) Acacio misses a right hook and leaves himself open to be countered with a jab and a right hook.
(Rd 1 - 09:27) A quick exchange of strikes does not produce any damage.
(Rd 1 - 09:05) The two combatants meet in the center and start to strike.
(Rd 1 - 09:05) Acacio slips past a right hook and counters with a jab and a right cross that just misses.
(Rd 1 - 08:47) The fighters go toe-to-toe with strikes but neither lands anything significant in the exchange.
(Rd 1 - 08:23) The two fighters come forward and engage.
(Rd 1 - 08:23) Yoshida misses with a big right hand, allowing Acacio to counter with a jab and a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 08:02) Acacio steps in and looks to unleash.
(Rd 1 - 08:02) Yoshida looked like he was going to shoot, but Acacio simply took the initiative first.
(Rd 1 - 08:02) Acacio can't hit a set-up left jab, but then lands a big right hand.
(Rd 1 - 07:48) Both fighters move in and engage.
(Rd 1 - 07:48) Acacio lands a left jab but doesn't find the mark with a right hook.
(Rd 1 - 07:48) Yoshida hits a left jab but can't hit a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 07:28) Yoshida shoots in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 07:28) Yoshida couldn't complete the single leg, but does end up standing holding a leg while Acacio hops in place on the other.
(Rd 1 - 07:28) Yoshida uses the position to drive Acacio up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 07:13) Yoshida attempts to set up a judo-based throw to take Acacio to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 07:13) He executes an outside leg trip, sweeping Acacio to the mat where he pulls half guard!
(Rd 1 - 06:57) Yoshida fires away with right hands, but Acacio doesn't take much damage.
(Rd 1 - 06:40) Yoshida blocks an attempted move from half guard to full guard.
(Rd 1 - 06:28) Yoshida throws a few strikes, but they are without venom.
(Rd 1 - 06:09) Yoshida blocks Acacio as he tries a transition to full guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:58) Yoshida throws a few strikes, but is clearly slowing things down so that he can catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 05:42) Yoshida fires away with rights, but does little in the way of actual damage.
(Rd 1 - 05:26) Acacio tries to get full guard on Yoshida but doesn't get anywhere.
(Rd 1 - 05:13) Looking to catch his breath, Yoshida is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 04:44) Acacio tries to move from half guard to full guard, but Yoshida doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 04:33) Yoshida fires away with punches, but Acacio deals with them fairly well.
(Rd 1 - 04:19) Yoshida blocks Acacio as he tries a transition to full guard.
(Rd 1 - 04:03) Yoshida looks to pass half guard and get side control.
(Rd 1 - 04:03) Acacio allows the pass, but it's just a ploy to allow him to try and scramble.
(Rd 1 - 03:51) The scramble sees Yoshida up first, and he is quick to wrestle Acacio up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:38) Yoshida attempts to set up a judo-based throw to take Acacio to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 03:38) He sweeps the leg and turns his hip, tossing Acacio to the mat with a beautiful hip throw! He gets side control!
(Rd 1 - 03:20) In side control, Yoshida throws a couple of punches designed to keep Acacio guessing.
(Rd 1 - 03:02) Yoshida throws a few strikes, but they are without venom.
(Rd 1 - 02:36) Acacio tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 02:19) Yoshida starts trying to work to go from side control to mount.
(Rd 1 - 02:19) Acacio desperately tries to fight the mount, and they find themselves scrambling for position.
(Rd 1 - 02:04) Acacio manages to come out on top with side control.
(Rd 1 - 01:47) Acacio pounds away with right hands, but doesn't really do a great deal of damage.
(Rd 1 - 01:31) Yoshida tries to pull guard on Acacio but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 01:18) Acacio fires away with punches, but does little in the way of damage.
(Rd 1 - 01:03) Acacio blocks Yoshida as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 1 - 00:48) Acacio fires off some rights, but Yoshida isn't troubled by them.
(Rd 1 - 00:37) Yoshida tries to move to guard, but Acacio doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 00:17) Acacio pounds away but is unable to inflict much damage on Yoshida.
(Rd 1 - 00:03) Acacio blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one ends as time expires.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell and the final round begins!
(Rd 2 - 04:54) Both fighters come together and strike.
(Rd 2 - 04:54) Acacio uses a left jab but has a right hand blocked.
(Rd 2 - 04:54) Yoshida uses a left jab and also hits a good right hand.
(Rd 2 - 04:37) Acacio comes forward.
(Rd 2 - 04:37) Yoshida hits two left hands on the counter.
(Rd 2 - 04:37) Acacio can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then he hits Yoshida with a beauty of a straight right.
(Rd 2 - 04:30) For the first time, Yoshida is starting to breathe a little heavier.
(Rd 2 - 04:30) Acacio is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 2 - 04:17) Yoshida comes forward, willing to take a few shots as long as he can get close enough to wrestle.
(Rd 2 - 04:17) Acacio uses a left jab, but finds nothing but air with a big right.
(Rd 2 - 03:58) Both fighters meet in the center.
(Rd 2 - 03:58) Acacio misses a right hook and gets countered with a jab and a good right hand.
(Rd 2 - 03:46) A little fatigue may be creeping in, Acacio is starting to move noticeably more slowly now.
(Rd 2 - 03:33) Acacio initiates an exchange of strikes.
(Rd 2 - 03:33) Yoshida lands two left hands in the exchange.
(Rd 2 - 03:33) Acacio uses a left jab but finds nothing but air with a big right.
(Rd 2 - 03:18) An exchange of strikes does not produce any damage.
(Rd 2 - 02:56) Acacio looks to go for broke and launch a full-on attack, he knows he is running out of time and needs a finish to win.
(Rd 2 - 02:44) Acacio can't hit a set-up left jab, but then scores with a right cross.
(Rd 2 - 02:30) We pass the halfway mark of this round.
(Rd 2 - 02:16) Yoshida, looking very tentative, pokes out a quick jab that hits.
(Rd 2 - 02:16) Acacio throws a quick punch but doesn't hit.
(Rd 2 - 02:11) Acacio is looking really tired.
(Rd 2 - 02:02) Acacio uses a left jab, but his big right hand follow-up misses.
(Rd 2 - 01:42) The two combatants meet in the center and start to strike.
(Rd 2 - 01:42) Acacio finds a good angle and lands a nice one-two.
(Rd 2 - 01:42) Yoshida lands a left jab and also scores with a great right hook.
(Rd 2 - 01:17) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 2 - 01:17) Yoshida dodges a right hand and counter-attacks with a jab and a nice right hook.
(Rd 2 - 01:05) Yoshida is definitely slowing, his gas tank is being challenged here.
(Rd 2 - 00:50) Yoshida keeps slightly out of range, looking for a chance to dart in and start grappling.
(Rd 2 - 00:50) Acacio throws a punch but Yoshida was equal to it.
(Rd 2 - 00:43) Yoshida seizes the chance and grabs Acacio into a clinch.
(Rd 2 - 00:35) Yoshida tries to wrestle Acacio backward and up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:35) Yoshida does it, Acacio is stuck with his back to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:16) Yoshida stomps down on his opponent's foot.
(Rd 2 - 00:01) Yoshida doesn't look like he has much left in the tank.
(Rd 2 - 00:01) With Acacio stuck against the ropes, Yoshida tries to set up a judo-style throw.
(Rd 2 - 00:01) An outside leg trip sweeps Acacio down to the ground where he is left on his back pulling guard!
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The time expires on round two, and that is the end of the fight.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The official decisions are being reported now.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have agreed that Yoshida is the winner.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) Making Yoshiyuki 'Zenko' Yoshida the winner by unanimous decision!

Official Result: Yoshiyuki Yoshida def. Daniel Acacio by Unanimous Decision.

Lightweight Bout
Daisuke Nakamura (14-9) vs. Charles Bennett (20-16-2)

Another match is about to begin; Daisuke Nakamura (14-9, 4-2 PRIDE) competing against Charles 'Krazy Horse' Bennett (20-16-2, 2-5 PRIDE).

Our referee is Mario Yamasaki. The judges are: Junichiro Kamijo, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:52) Krazy Horse steps in and looks to unleash.
(Rd 1 - 09:52) Nakamura, backing off, hits a weak left hand.
(Rd 1 - 09:52) Krazy Horse hits a left jab and then lands a big right hand.
(Rd 1 - 09:28) Nakamura steps in, seemingly willing to take strikes if it means getting close enough to wrestle.
(Rd 1 - 09:28) Krazy Horse lands a left jab, but finds nothing but air with a big right.
(Rd 1 - 09:18) Nakamura seizes the chance and grabs Krazy Horse into a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:10) Nakamura is trying to lock Krazy Horse into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:10) Nakamura achieves it, Krazy Horse could not fight out of it.
(Rd 1 - 08:53) Using the Muay Thai clinch, Nakamura blasts Krazy Horse with a big knee to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 08:36) Krazy Horse tries to wrestle free of the Muay Thai clinch, but cannot.
(Rd 1 - 07:58) From the clinch, Krazy Horse gets caught with a massive knee to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 07:44) Krazy Horse tries to wrestle free of the Muay Thai clinch, but cannot.
(Rd 1 - 07:09) Using the Muay Thai clinch, Nakamura blasts Krazy Horse with a big knee to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 06:52) Krazy Horse partially blocks a knee strike, enough to allow him to wrestle free of the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 06:29) Krazy Horse is breathing very hard.
(Rd 1 - 06:17) Nakamura shoots in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 06:17) The takedown is completed, Nakamura gets side control from it.
(Rd 1 - 05:58) Nakamura tries to ensnare Krazy Horse in an arm triangle.
(Rd 1 - 05:58) Nakamura gets the arm triangle fully applied and Krazy Horse has to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 05:34) The winner, by submission; Daisuke Nakamura!

Official Result: Daisuke Nakamura def. Charles Bennett by Submission (Arm-Triangle) in 4:26 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout
Krysztof Soszynski (17-8-1) vs. Kazuo Takahashi (28-24-3-1 NC)

Next up, Krzysztof 'The Experiment' Soszynski (17-8-1, 0-1 PRIDE) squaring off with Kazuo Takahashi (28-24-3-1 NC, 0-4 PRIDE).

The referee is Mario Yamasaki. Our ringside judges are: Tetsuzan Watoga, Kanagi Fujimaro, and Chris Lee.

Although they weighed in the same, it's noticeable that Soszynski looks a lot heavier than his opponent now.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:45) Soszynski chooses to shoot in on Takahashi.
(Rd 1 - 09:45) Soszynski gets hold of a leg but Takahashi remains standing, hopping on the other foot.
(Rd 1 - 09:45) Unable to complete the takedown, Soszynski instead pushes Takahashi up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:32) Soszynski tries to take Takahashi down.
(Rd 1 - 09:32) He gets a big takedown and he is left on top of a turtled up Takahashi.
(Rd 1 - 09:15) Soszynski flattens Takahashi out.
(Rd 1 - 09:01) Soszynski attempts to complete a rear naked choke.
(Rd 1 - 09:01) Takahashi defends himself well against the choke.
(Rd 1 - 08:24) Soszynski blocks Takahashi as he tries to roll over.
(Rd 1 - 08:06) Takahashi is in huge trouble now, as Soszynski successfully gets both hooks in.
(Rd 1 - 07:52) Soszynski starts unloading with massive rights and Takahashi is getting pasted!
(Rd 1 - 07:52) Referee Mario Yamasaki pulls Soszynski away, stopping the fight!
(Rd 1 - 07:40) The winner, by TKO, is Krzysztof 'The Experiment' Soszynski!

Official Result: Krzysztof Soszynski def. Kazuo Takahashi by TKO (Strikes) in 2:20 of Round 1.

Featherweight Bout
Rumina Sato (25-12-2) vs. Bart Palaszewiski (28-9)

Moving on, 'Moon Wolf' Rumina Sato (25-12-2, 1-2 PRIDE) faces Bart 'Bartimus' Palaszewski (28-9, 0-0 PRIDE).

Our referee is Yuji Shimada. Our ringside judges are: Chris Lee, Junichiro Kamijo, and Tsumemasa Kawakami.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway!
(Rd 1 - 09:53) Sato may have been aiming to get in close, but Palaszewski aggressively took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 09:53) Palaszewski throws a one-two, but Sato was equal to it.
(Rd 1 - 09:34) Sato gets close enough to clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:20) Sato attempts to wrestle Palaszewski to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 09:20) Sato can't get the takedown as Palaszewski wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 08:59) Palaszewski is trying to push Sato so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:59) Palaszewski manages it and controls Sato up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:48) Looking for a takedown, Palaszewski drops down and gets hold of a leg. Sato remains standing on the other foot, leaning against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:48) Palaszewski can't get Sato down to the ground though and gets pulled back into a clinch against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:31) Palaszewski tries to take Sato down.
(Rd 1 - 08:31) Palaszewski can't get the takedown as Sato wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 08:20) Sato looks for a takedown by grabbing both his opponent's legs and trying to trip him to the mat.
(Rd 1 - 08:20) It looks like Palaszewski is trying to grab a guillotine.
(Rd 1 - 08:20) The takedown is successful, but Palaszewski has caught Sato in a guillotine!
(Rd 1 - 08:07) Sato gets caught in a guillotine, but is not tapping!
(Rd 1 - 08:07) It looks like Sato must have been able to stop the choke from being fully sunk in.
(Rd 1 - 08:07) Palaszewski eventually lets go, but may have gassed his arms by trying to squeeze out the submission.
(Rd 1 - 07:30) In guard, Sato begins working to pass to side control.
(Rd 1 - 07:30) He passes to half guard.
(Rd 1 - 06:45) Sato unloads with rights, but does fairly minimal damage.
(Rd 1 - 06:33) Palaszewski tries to transition to full guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 06:13) Sato throws a few right hands, but is mainly trying to catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 05:49) Sato pounds away, but is unable to land many clean shots on Palaszewski.
(Rd 1 - 05:33) Sato blocks Palaszewski as he tries a transition to full guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:19) Sato attempts to pass half guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:19) Advancing his position with ease, he mounts Palaszewski.
(Rd 1 - 04:56) We are now at the halfway point of the round.
(Rd 1 - 04:56) Sato attempts an armbar.
(Rd 1 - 04:56) The armbar is locked in, tight enough that Palaszewski has to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 04:40) The winner, by submission; Rumina Sato!

Official Result: Rumina Sato def. Bart Palszewski by Submission (Armbar) in 5:20 of Round 1.

Featherweight Bout
Mitsuhiro Ishida (15-5-1) vs. Andre Dida (6-0-1)

In the last of the preliminary fights, 'The Endless Warrior' Mitsuhiro Ishida (15-5-1, 5-3 PRIDE) battles Andre Dida (6-0-1, 2-0 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Featherweight division.

John McCarthy will be the referee. The judges for this bout are: Junichiro Kamijo, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:46) It looked like we were about to see a shot from Ishida, but Dida was more aggressive and took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 09:46) Dida fails to find a home for his jab, but then hits a nice straight right that lands hard.
(Rd 1 - 09:33) Ishida shoots in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:33) Ishida couldn't complete the single leg, but does end up standing holding a leg while Dida hops in place on the other.
(Rd 1 - 09:33) With Dida not going down, Ishida settles for pushing him up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:16) Ishida presses Dida up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:16) They exchange short punches to the body for about a minute.
(Rd 1 - 08:12) Showing his ability to control opponents, Ishida simply smothers Dida against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:12) The next minute or so sees them engage in close-quarters dirty boxing.
(Rd 1 - 07:12) Ishida drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down.
(Rd 1 - 07:12) Ishida can't get the takedown as Dida wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 06:45) Ishida waits for Dida to try some dirty boxing, then quickly uses wrestling to turn him around so that he now has his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 06:19) Ishida tries to keep him up against the ropes, but Dida works enough space that he can slip out and away, back to the center.
(Rd 1 - 05:57) Dida throws a quick punch but doesn't hit.
(Rd 1 - 05:52) Shoulders hunched, Dida studies his opponent, looking for an opportunity.
(Rd 1 - 05:46) Ishida lands a left hand.
(Rd 1 - 05:46) Dida fails to find a home for his jab, but then hits a nice straight right that lands hard.
(Rd 1 - 05:28) A jab is wide from Dida, but then he hits Ishida with a beauty of a straight right.
(Rd 1 - 05:14) Ishida lands a left hand.
(Rd 1 - 05:14) Dida can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then hits a nice straight right that lands hard.
(Rd 1 - 05:01) A jab hits home from Dida and then he hits a crunching straight right to the jaw!
(Rd 1 - 05:01) Ishida is knocked down by that shot!
(Rd 1 - 04:51) We've now passed the halfway mark in this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:51) Without hesitation, Dida goes to finish Ishida off with stomps and kicks!
(Rd 1 - 04:51) Ishida is back to his feet too quickly though.
(Rd 1 - 04:21) Dida fails to find a home for his jab, but then catches Ishida with a crunching right hook.
(Rd 1 - 04:14) Looking glassy-eyed, Ishida staggers backward...he may have been stunned by that last blow!
(Rd 1 - 04:14) Dida tries to finish him off with a huge right hook, but just misses.
(Rd 1 - 04:01) Dida is slowing just a little as he starts to get into the gas tank a bit.
(Rd 1 - 03:48) A jab hits home from Dida and then he catches Ishida with a crunching right hook.
(Rd 1 - 03:24) Ishida shoots in for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 03:24) Dida almost stops the takedown but is left hopping on one leg while Ishida holds the other.
(Rd 1 - 03:24) Unable to complete the takedown, Ishida instead pushes Dida up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:07) Dida is trapped up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:07) They exchange short punches to the body for about a minute.
(Rd 1 - 01:54) Dida wrestles back against Ishida, turning him enough so that he can escape away from the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:35) Ishida hits a jab, but it had no power at all behind it.
(Rd 1 - 01:35) Dida can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then hits a nice straight right that lands hard.
(Rd 1 - 01:17) Dida throws a punch but Ishida avoids it.
(Rd 1 - 01:02) Ishida scores with a weak, flicked left hand jab.
(Rd 1 - 01:02) Dida throws a punch but Ishida was equal to it.
(Rd 1 - 00:55) The end of the round is coming quick, there's under a minute left.
(Rd 1 - 00:50) Dida looks confident, shortening the range as he looks to strike.
(Rd 1 - 00:50) Dida can't connect with a jab, but then scores with a fantastic right cross!
(Rd 1 - 00:50) Ishida hits the mat, that shot has rocked him!
(Rd 1 - 00:45) Dida starts pounding away on Ishida, looking to finish him off!
(Rd 1 - 00:45) Dida pounds away with rights, Ishida is eating some sickeningly heavy shots to the face!
(Rd 1 - 00:45) Referee John McCarthy has no option but to leap in and stop the fight!
(Rd 1 - 00:29) By TKO, the winner is Andre Dida!

Official Result: Andre Dida def. Mitsuhiro Ishida by TKO (Strikes) in 9:31 of Round 1.

Main Card

Featherweight Bout
Kotetsu Boku (13-4-1) vs. Wagnney Fabiano (9-1)[/center]

The first of the main fights is Kotetsu Boku (13-4-1, 1-2 PRIDE) taking on 'The Silencer' Wagnney Fabiano (9-1, 1-0 PRIDE).

Mario Yamasaki will be the referee. The judges for this bout are: Junichiro Kamijo, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 09:47) Fabiano may have been setting up to shoot, but Boku aggressively took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 09:47) Boku uses a left jab, but misses with a vicious right hand.
(Rd 1 - 09:30) It looked like we were about to see a shot from Fabiano, but Boku was more aggressive and took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 09:30) Boku hits a left jab and then hits a nice straight right.
(Rd 1 - 09:15) Fabiano shoots in for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:15) The takedown is successful, it's a single leg that leaves Boku pulling guard.
(Rd 1 - 08:56) Fabiano fires away with right hands, but Boku doesn't take much damage.
(Rd 1 - 08:41) Fabiano pounds away with punches but does minimal damage.
(Rd 1 - 08:23) Fabiano throws a few relatively weak right hands.
(Rd 1 - 08:03) In guard, Fabiano is content just to throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 07:37) Fabiano attempts to pass guard.
(Rd 1 - 07:37) He manages to pass, but only to half guard.
(Rd 1 - 06:31) Fabiano tries to pass the half guard.
(Rd 1 - 06:31) Fabiano gains side control after getting his leg free from half guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:21) Fabiano attempts to kimura Boku from side control.
(Rd 1 - 05:21) Boku fights off the kimura attempt.
(Rd 1 - 04:50) Fabiano holds Boku in position with side control and drives a big knee into the ribs!
(Rd 1 - 04:33) Boku takes a knee strike to the ribs from under side control.
(Rd 1 - 04:22) Fabiano keeps Boku guessing with a few quick strikes.
(Rd 1 - 04:02) Fabiano uses side control to hit a brutal knee strike just above the hip!
(Rd 1 - 04:02) Boku may have a broken rib after that strike.
(Rd 1 - 04:02) Any sort of significant damage to the ribs is going to leave Boku in a world of trouble.
(Rd 1 - 03:50) Fabiano is trying to move from side control to mount.
(Rd 1 - 03:50) He can't get the mount as Boku rolls away to stop it, but does take his back instead.
(Rd 1 - 03:24) Fabiano tries to put Boku in a rear naked choke.
(Rd 1 - 03:24) The rear naked choke is in deep, Boku has to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 03:08) Wagnney Fabiano takes the victory by way of submission!

Official Result: Wagnney Fabiano def. Kotetsu Boku by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 6:52 of Round 1.

Featherweight Bout
Brad Pickett (13-3) vs. Takeshi Inoue (15-3)

Moving on to the next match, in which Brad 'One Punch' Pickett (13-3, 2-0 PRIDE) faces 'Lion' Takeshi Inoue (15-3, 2-0 PRIDE).

Our referee is John McCarthy. Our judges at ringside are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Tetsuzan Watoga, and Kanagi Fujimaro.

Inoue looks significantly bigger than Pickett as they prepare to fight, even though they weighed in exactly the same yesterday.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway!
(Rd 1 - 09:45) The fighters go toe-to-toe with strikes but neither lands anything significant in the exchange.
(Rd 1 - 09:24) Both fighters move in and engage.
(Rd 1 - 09:24) Inoue hits a jab but is wide of the mark on a head kick attempt.
(Rd 1 - 09:24) Pickett hits a left jab but doesn't make contact on a low kick.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) They come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) Inoue hits a jab but misses with a head kick attempt.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) Pickett lands a nice right hook.
(Rd 1 - 08:45) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 08:45) Inoue misses a right hook and gets countered with a jab and a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 08:19) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 08:19) Pickett can't hit a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 08:19) Inoue has a right hand taken on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 08:04) Both fighters meet in the center.
(Rd 1 - 08:04) Inoue misses a right hook and gets countered with a left jab and a right hook that is avoided at the last second.
(Rd 1 - 07:49) They engage in the center.
(Rd 1 - 07:49) Pickett slips past a right hook attempt and attacks with a left cross.
(Rd 1 - 07:29) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 07:29) Pickett slips past a right hook and counters with a good right hand.
(Rd 1 - 07:08) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 07:08) Inoue hits a left jab but finds his right cross blocked.
(Rd 1 - 07:08) Pickett hits a pair of jabs and also hits a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 06:44) They engage in the center.
(Rd 1 - 06:44) Pickett dodges a right hand and counter-attacks with a great right hook.
(Rd 1 - 06:13) The two fighters engage with strikes but neither lands anything worthwhile.
(Rd 1 - 05:53) The fighters go toe-to-toe with strikes but neither lands anything significant in the exchange.
(Rd 1 - 05:27) The fighters go toe-to-toe with strikes but neither lands anything significant in the exchange.
(Rd 1 - 05:11) Inoue is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 1 - 05:03) Both fighters meet in the center.
(Rd 1 - 05:03) Pickett dodges a right hand and counter-attacks with a nice right hook.
(Rd 1 - 04:38) The two combatants meet in the center and start to strike.
(Rd 1 - 04:38) Pickett dodges a right hand and counter-attacks with a vicious right cross!
(Rd 1 - 04:29) Inoue is knocked down by that shot!
(Rd 1 - 04:29) Pickett senses victory and starts to unload with punches!
(Rd 1 - 04:29) Pickett pounds away, Inoue is taking heavy shot after heavy shot!
(Rd 1 - 04:29) Referee John McCarthy has no option but to leap in and stop the fight!
(Rd 1 - 04:12) The winner, by TKO; Brad Pickett!

Official Result: Brad Pickett def. Takeshi Inoue by TKO (Strikes) in 5:48 of Round 1.

Featherweight Bout
Antonio Carvalho (13-2) vs. Joachin Hansen (17-6-1)

The co-main event is up next. Antonio 'Pato' Carvalho (13-2, 1-0 PRIDE) battles Joachim 'Hellboy' Hansen (17-6-1, 6-3 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Featherweight division.

Mario Yamasaki will be the referee. The judges for this bout are: Kanagi Fujimaro, Chris Lee, and Junichiro Kamijo.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We start with a touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:50) Hansen steps forward and a striking exchange begins.
(Rd 1 - 09:50) Carvalho lands a left hand in the exchange.
(Rd 1 - 09:50) Hansen throws a one-two, but Carvalho was equal to it.
(Rd 1 - 09:33) They come together and trade leather but neither fighter really does any damage.
(Rd 1 - 09:07) Carvalho, looking very tentative, pokes out a pair of quick jabs; neither had any power on them.
(Rd 1 - 09:07) Hansen throws a punch but Carvalho avoids it.
(Rd 1 - 08:56) Hansen can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then lands a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 08:56) It looks like Carvalho has been cut above the eye.
(Rd 1 - 08:36) Hansen looked like he was going to shoot, but Carvalho simply took the initiative first.
(Rd 1 - 08:36) Carvalho throws a quick one-two but doesn't land either blow.
(Rd 1 - 08:26) Carvalho rolls his shoulders to relieve a little of the tension that has built up, then moves forward.
(Rd 1 - 08:15) Hansen chooses to shoot in on Carvalho.
(Rd 1 - 08:15) Hansen couldn't complete the single leg, but does end up standing holding a leg while Carvalho hops in place on the other.
(Rd 1 - 08:15) Unable to complete the takedown, Hansen instead pushes Carvalho up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 07:52) Hansen looks to take Carvalho down with a trip.
(Rd 1 - 07:52) Carvalho has no answer to a slick trip, he is left down under side control!
(Rd 1 - 07:33) Hansen tries to pound on Carvalho, but all the blows are comfortably dealt with.
(Rd 1 - 07:13) Carvalho tries to move to guard, but Hansen doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 06:56) In side control, Hansen catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 06:33) Hansen pounds away, but is unable to land many clean shots on Carvalho.
(Rd 1 - 06:22) Hansen blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 06:08) In side control, Hansen throws a couple of punches designed to keep Carvalho guessing.
(Rd 1 - 05:40) Hansen blocks Carvalho as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:22) Hansen fires off some rights, but Carvalho isn't troubled by them.
(Rd 1 - 05:11) Carvalho tries to pull guard on Hansen but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 04:58) We are now at the halfway point of the round.
(Rd 1 - 04:58) Hansen unloads with big right hands, but Carvalho is able to deal with most of them.
(Rd 1 - 04:46) Hansen blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 04:29) Hansen tries to pound on Carvalho, but all the blows are comfortably dealt with.
(Rd 1 - 04:17) Hansen blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 03:58) Hansen unloads with some right hands, but Carvalho deals with them comfortably.
(Rd 1 - 03:42) Carvalho tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 03:27) Hansen throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move.
(Rd 1 - 03:05) Carvalho tries to pull guard on Hansen but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 02:45) Referee Mario Yamasaki decides that there is a lack of progress being made and stands them back up.
(Rd 1 - 02:34) The clock is stopped as the referee wants to check the cut on Carvalho.
(Rd 1 - 02:34) The doctor checks the cut, but seems happy that it does not present too much of a problem.
(Rd 1 - 02:34) The fight will be restarted in the center!
(Rd 1 - 02:23) They come together and trade leather but neither fighter really does any damage.
(Rd 1 - 02:06) Carvalho, backing off, hits a weak left hand.
(Rd 1 - 02:06) Hansen throws a quick punch but doesn't hit.
(Rd 1 - 01:50) Carvalho confidently comes in closer.
(Rd 1 - 01:50) Hansen appeared to be going for a takedown, but Carvalho took the initiative first.
(Rd 1 - 01:50) Carvalho throws a two-punch combo but Hansen avoids both.
(Rd 1 - 01:29) Hansen closes the distance, obviously looking to strike.
(Rd 1 - 01:29) Two defensive jabs hit from Carvalho, but neither had any power.
(Rd 1 - 01:29) Hansen fails to find a home for his jab, but then scores with a fantastic right cross!
(Rd 1 - 01:29) Carvalho hits the mat, that shot has rocked him!
(Rd 1 - 01:24) Hansen quickly goes for the kill, looking to stomp and kick the dazed Carvalho!
(Rd 1 - 01:24) Carvalho is back up too fast though.
(Rd 1 - 00:59) The end of the round is coming quick, there's under a minute left.
(Rd 1 - 00:59) Carvalho looked like he was about to shoot, but Hansen stepped in fast and started a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 00:40) Hansen tries to knee Carvalho, but gets blocked.
(Rd 1 - 00:21) Using his wrestling skills, Hansen is trying to push Carvalho up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 00:21) Carvalho isn't going anywhere though.
(Rd 1 - 00:05) Hansen catches Carvalho with a knee strike to the body from the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) The time is up, and that's the end of round one.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) Our last round, round two, begins!
(Rd 2 - 04:50) Hansen throws a two-punch combo but Carvalho avoids both.
(Rd 2 - 04:33) Hansen shoots in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 2 - 04:33) Carvalho stops the takedown with a great sprawl; Hansen is forced down onto his hands and knees.
(Rd 2 - 04:14) Carvalho pounds away with rights and Hansen is eating some heavy shots!
(Rd 2 - 03:56) Carvalho looks to hit a kick to the body, but Hansen is back up and out of range too quickly.
(Rd 2 - 03:42) Taking a few gulps of breath, Hansen is giving the first hint that he is starting to tire a touch.
(Rd 2 - 03:31) Carvalho had looked like he was angling for a takedown attempt, but couldn't take the initiative.
(Rd 2 - 03:31) Hansen lands a left jab, but Carvalho evades a big right punch.
(Rd 2 - 03:11) Carvalho steps forward, looking to strike.
(Rd 2 - 03:11) Hansen hit a counter left hand.
(Rd 2 - 03:11) Carvalho throws a two-punch combo but Hansen avoids both.
(Rd 2 - 02:55) A one-two from Carvalho fails to land.
(Rd 2 - 02:46) Hansen comes in and grabs Carvalho in a clinch.
(Rd 2 - 02:36) Hansen is trying to push Carvalho so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 02:36) Carvalho ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 02:24) We go past the halfway point of this round.
(Rd 2 - 02:24) Hansen attempts a leg-sweep trip to put Carvalho on the ground.
(Rd 2 - 02:24) He executes an outside leg trip, sweeping Carvalho to the mat where he pulls guard!
(Rd 2 - 02:10) Hansen keeps Carvalho guessing with a few quick strikes.
(Rd 2 - 01:44) Carvalho tries to catch Hansen with a punch, but it is not on target.
(Rd 2 - 01:32) Hansen tries to pound on Carvalho, but none of the blows land with any degree of power.
(Rd 2 - 01:14) Carvalho pulls Hansen down in close and hits him with a couple of short punches to the side of the head.
(Rd 2 - 00:55) There's under a minute left in this round.
(Rd 2 - 00:55) Hansen keeps Carvalho guessing with a few quick strikes.
(Rd 2 - 00:34) Carvalho tries to catch Hansen with a punch, but it is not on target.
(Rd 2 - 00:19) Hansen pounds away with right hands, but doesn't do much damage.
(Rd 2 - 00:01) Hansen leans back to avoid a couple of wild swings from Carvalho.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) Time runs out and that's the end of the fight.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The judges have given their decisions, which are about to be announced.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have given Hansen the win.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) So the winner, by unanimous decision, is Joachim 'Hellboy' Hansen!

Official Result: Joachin Hansen def. Antonio Carvalho by Unanimous Decision.

Featherweight Bout
Norifumi Yamamoto (19-1-1 NC) vs. Ivan Menjivar (22-7)

It's time for the main event of the evening! Norifumi 'Kid' Yamamoto (19-1-1 NC, 4-0 PRIDE) fights 'The Pride of El Salvador' Ivan Menjivar (22-7, 2-0 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Featherweight division.

Refereeing this bout will be John McCarthy. Our judges at ringside are: Tetsuzan Watoga, Kanagi Fujimaro, and Chris Lee.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fight begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:54) Menjivar gets in close and clinches with Yamamoto.
(Rd 1 - 09:38) Menjivar is looking to muscle Yamamoto back against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:38) He does so and now has Yamamoto pinned to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:23) Menjivar looks to sweep a leg in order to execute a sharp trip.
(Rd 1 - 09:23) Menjivar doesn't get the trip, Yamamoto instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 09:07) Yamamoto ducks down and grabs a leg. Menjivar remains standing, using the ropes for support, but is under threat of a takedown now.
(Rd 1 - 09:07) Yamamoto can't get Menjivar down to the ground though and gets pulled back into a clinch against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:50) With Menjivar stuck against the ropes, Yamamoto tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs.
(Rd 1 - 08:50) It's unsuccessful, Menjivar maintained a good solid base.
(Rd 1 - 08:31) Yamamoto looks to take Menjivar down with a trip.
(Rd 1 - 08:31) Yamamoto doesn't get it, Menjivar blocked any attempt to move him.
(Rd 1 - 08:31) The takedown may have been blocked, but Menjivar is still stuck against the ropes and can't seem to get free.
(Rd 1 - 08:18) With the ropes trapping Menjivar, Yamamoto looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 1 - 08:18) The takedown is successful and he gets side control too.
(Rd 1 - 08:03) Yamamoto pounds away, but Menjivar isn't troubled by the strikes.
(Rd 1 - 07:51) Menjivar tries to move to guard, but Yamamoto doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 07:35) Yamamoto fires away with punches, but Menjivar doesn't take any undue damage.
(Rd 1 - 07:20) Menjivar tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 07:08) Yamamoto throws a few left hands, but is mainly trying to catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 06:50) Yamamoto blocks Menjivar as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 1 - 06:35) Yamamoto pounds away with left hands, but doesn't really do a great deal of damage.
(Rd 1 - 06:16) Menjivar tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 06:01) Yamamoto throws a few left hands to the body.
(Rd 1 - 05:44) Yamamoto blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:24) Yamamoto fires off some lefts, but Menjivar isn't troubled by them.
(Rd 1 - 05:10) Yamamoto blocks Menjivar as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 1 - 04:55) We move into the second half of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:55) Yamamoto pounds away on Menjivar but can't land anything significant.
(Rd 1 - 04:37) Yamamoto blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 04:26) In side control, Yamamoto catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 03:58) Menjivar tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 03:39) The lack of progress forces the referee to stand the fighters back up.
(Rd 1 - 03:31) They come together and trade leather but neither fighter really does any damage.
(Rd 1 - 02:57) They come together in a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 02:57) Yamamoto wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 02:51) Yamamoto, controlling the grapple with Menjivar, tries to scoop him up for a slam.
(Rd 1 - 02:51) Yamamoto gets it! Menjivar manages to pull half guard upon impact.
(Rd 1 - 02:36) Yamamoto looks to get past the half guard.
(Rd 1 - 02:36) Menjivar allows the pass, but it's just a ploy to allow him to try and scramble.
(Rd 1 - 02:25) The scramble leaves Yamamoto on his back pulling guard.
(Rd 1 - 02:14) Menjivar pounds away, but Yamamoto isn't troubled by the strikes.
(Rd 1 - 02:14) The attack does see Menjivar get pushed away though, right out of guard, and he is now standing.
(Rd 1 - 02:03) Menjivar tries to secure a ground position.
(Rd 1 - 02:03) Yamamoto pulls Menjivar into guard, preventing him from getting any further.
(Rd 1 - 01:43) Menjivar throws some minor strikes.
(Rd 1 - 01:23) Menjivar punches down at Yamamoto, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 00:58) Menjivar deflects a couple of punches that Yamamoto threw from below.
(Rd 1 - 00:44) Menjivar looks to get past the guard.
(Rd 1 - 00:44) He passes guard but loses his control momentarily and a scramble begins.
(Rd 1 - 00:31) Yamamoto ends up having to pull half guard, losing out in the scramble.
(Rd 1 - 00:18) Menjivar fires away with punches, but Yamamoto doesn't take any undue damage.
(Rd 1 - 00:03) Menjivar blocks an attempted move from half guard to full guard.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one ends as time expires.

Round 2

(Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell for the start of the final round!
(Rd 2 - 04:50) Menjivar gets close enough to clinch.
(Rd 2 - 04:35) Menjivar can't keep control of Yamamoto in the grapple, and is soon being pushed around.
(Rd 2 - 04:16) Using his wrestling skills, Yamamoto is trying to push Menjivar up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:16) Yamamoto does it, Menjivar is stuck with his back to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 03:56) Menjivar is trapped against the ropes and takes a sharp stomp to the foot.
(Rd 2 - 03:44) With Menjivar stuck against the ropes, Yamamoto tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs.
(Rd 2 - 03:44) The takedown is successful and he gets side control too.
(Rd 2 - 03:27) Yamamoto tries to pound on Menjivar, but all the blows are comfortably dealt with.
(Rd 2 - 03:12) Yamamoto blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 2 - 03:01) Yamamoto attempts the mount.
(Rd 2 - 03:01) Yamamoto struggles but cannot mount Menjivar.
(Rd 2 - 02:30) Yamamoto blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 2 - 02:16) Yamamoto punches down at Menjivar, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 2 - 01:59) Menjivar tries to pull guard on Yamamoto but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 2 - 01:39) In side control, Yamamoto catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 2 - 01:21) Menjivar tries to pull guard on Yamamoto but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 2 - 01:10) With no progress being made, the referee brings the fighters back to their feet.
(Rd 2 - 01:10) Yamamoto is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 2 - 01:10) For the first time, Menjivar is starting to breathe a little heavier.
(Rd 2 - 01:01) Menjivar gets in close and clinches with Yamamoto.
(Rd 2 - 00:47) Using his wrestling skills, Menjivar is trying to push Yamamoto up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:47) Yamamoto out-wrestles him though.
(Rd 2 - 00:19) Using his wrestling skills, Yamamoto is trying to push Menjivar up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:19) Yamamoto can't do it though, and ends up being out-wrestled in the grapple.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The fight comes to an end as the time limit expires.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The official decisions are being reported now.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have Yamamoto down as the winner.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) Making Norifumi 'Kid' Yamamoto the winner by unanimous decision!

Official Result: Norifumi Yamamoto def. Ivan Menjivar by Unanimous Decision.

PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008
Date: May 16, 2008
Venue: Makomanai Ice Arena
Local: Sapporo, Japan
Attendance: 1,071
Gate: $ 240,975
Critical Rating: 68%
Commercial Rating: 49%

Main Card

Featherweight GP Bout: Norifumi Yamamoto def. Ivan Menjivar by Unanimous Decision.

Featherweight GP Bout: Joachin Hansen def. Antonio Carvalho by Unanimous Decision.

Featherweight GP Bout: Brad Pickett def. Takeshi Inoue by TKO (Strikes) in 5:48 of Round 1.

Featherweight GP Bout: Wagnney Fabiano def. Kotetsu Boku by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 6:52 of Round 1.

Preliminary Card

Featherweight GP Reserve Bout: Andre Dida def. Mitsuhiro Ishida by TKO (Strikes) in 9:31 of Round 1.

Featherweight GP Reserve Bout: Rumina Sato def. Bart Palaszewiski by Submission (Armbar) in 5:20 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout: Krysztof Soszynski def. Kazuo Takahashi by TKO (Strikes) in 2:20 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout: Daisuke Nakamura def. Charles Bennett by Submission (Arm Triangle) in 4:26 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout: Yoshiyuki Yoshida def. Daniel Acacio by Unanimous Decision.

Welterweight Bout: Tim Boetsch def. Ryo Kawamura by TKO (Strikes) in 8:34 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout: Yusuke Endo def. Nick Aguillar by Split Decision.

Middleweight Bout: Bernard Ackah def. Po'ai Suganuma by TKO (Strikes) in 2:59 of Round 1.

Bonus

KO of the Night: Brad Pickett

Submission of the Night: Wagnney Fabiano

Fight of the Night: Wagnney Fabiano vs. Kotetsu Boku

POST FIGHT

<img src=https://i.imgur.com/TwXQehx.png>

- Sakakibara said he is already looking forward to the finals.

- Yamamoto said he respects Menjivar and that his return to 145 lbs was very smooth.

- Fabiano was very happy to get two bonuses in the event, and hopes to shock the world, beating Yamamoto.

- Pickett expects a very tough fight against Hansen and that certainly one will end up on the ground knocked out.

-Hansen said that he respects Pickett a lot and that he dreams of winning that tournament.

<img src=https://i.imgur.com/ErzNnbI.png>

PREDICTIONS

CageRage (7-5)

rodrigoviolim · February 12, 2021

PRIDE 43 WEIGH-IN RESULTS: ALL FIGHTERS MAKE WEIGHT

by Sean Smith

Weigh-in of PRIDE 43: Forever will take place tomorrow at Saitama Super Arena. The show will be led by the heavyweights collision between Josh Barnett and Alistair Overeem. The winner will be the next challenger to the PRIDE heavyweight title, which now belongs to Fedor Emelianenko. All fighters made weight and the twelve-fight card is now official.

The show will be led by the heavyweights collision between Josh Barnett and Alistair Overeem. The winner will be the next challenger to the PRIDE heavyweight title, which now belongs to Fedor Emelianenko.

After being eliminated from the heavyweight tournament by Mark Hunt, Barnett returned to winning ways by overcoming Gary Goodridge with a knockout in just 17 seconds.

Overeem in his last fight defeated Bob Sapp in the second round, winning his second consecutive victory and both by knockout.

The event will also feature the long-awaited fight between rivals Nick Diaz and Josh Thomson in the co-main event. It is likely that the winner of this fight will get the chance to dispute the lightweight title against champion 'Kid' Yamamoto.

PRIDE 43 will take place at Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan. It will broadcast by ESPN Africa, Eurosport Russia, SkySports 2, NHK, Polsat Sport, Fox Sports Asia, CBS Sports Network, ESPN Latin America and Fox Sports Australia. The card will also cover Blurcat.com's play by play with "The Voice" Matt Edwards and Daniel Tuxford.

Check out the Results:

PRIDE 43: Forever

Date: May 31, 2008

Venue: Saitama Super Arena

Local: Saitama, Japan

Main Card

Heavyweight Bout: Josh Barnett (265 lbs) vs. Alistair Overeem (245 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Nick Diaz (165 lbs) vs. Josh Thomson (165 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Andrei Arlovski (235 lbs) vs. Sergei Kharitonov (240 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Kevin Randleman (205 lbs) vs. Melvin Manhoef (205 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Mizuto Hirota (165 lbs) vs. Caol Uno (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Chael Sonnen (185 lbs) vs. Sanae Kikuta (185 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Heavyweight Bout: Hong Man Choi (265 lbs) vs. Peter Graham (250 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Carlos Newton (185 lbs) vs. Izuru Takeuchi (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Gesias Cavalcante (165 lbs) vs. Satoru Kitaoka (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Hector Lombard (185 lbs) vs. Krysztof Kulak (185 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Kazuyuki Miyata (145 lbs) vs. Bibiano Fernandes (145 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Jason High (165 lbs) vs. Nobutatsu Suzuki (165 lbs)

MAKE YOUR PREDICTIONS FOR THIS CARD

MORE NEWS

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Takeshi Inoue hospitalised

Sanchez wins title

New Brandon Vera home

Roger Huerta leaves UFC

Overeem mocks Barnett

Rua on potential fight

Yoshida Dojo visitor

Stallings defends title

MMA Around the World - Results

PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008

Jungle Fight 13

UFC Fight Night: Serra vs. Sanchez

Pancrase: Stallings vs. Linhares

Calendar - Upcoming Events

PRIDE 43: Forever

M-1: Thiago vs. Lennox

WEC 33: Wineland vs. Okazaki

Shooto: Matsune vs. Katsumura

MFC 17: Valimaki vs. Evans

KSW 12: Martela vs. Blachowicz

CageRage · February 12, 2021

PRIDE 43: Forever

Date: May 31, 2008

Venue: Saitama Super Arena

Local: Saitama, Japan

Main Card

Heavyweight Bout: Josh Barnett (265 lbs) vs. Alistair Overeem (245 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Nick Diaz (165 lbs) vs. Josh Thomson (165 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Andrei Arlovski (235 lbs) vs. Sergei Kharitonov (240 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Kevin Randleman (205 lbs) vs. Melvin Manhoef (205 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Mizuto Hirota (165 lbs) vs. Caol Uno (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Chael Sonnen (185 lbs) vs. Sanae Kikuta (185 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Heavyweight Bout: Hong Man Choi (265 lbs) vs. Peter Graham (250 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Carlos Newton (185 lbs) vs. Izuru Takeuchi (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Gesias Cavalcante (165 lbs) vs. Satoru Kitaoka (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Hector Lombard (185 lbs) vs. Krysztof Kulak (185 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Kazuyuki Miyata (145 lbs) vs. Bibiano Fernandes (145 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Jason High (165 lbs) vs. Nobutatsu Suzuki (165 lbs)

McDojoDelux · February 12, 2021

Heavyweight Bout: Josh Barnett (265 lbs) vs. Alistair Overeem (245 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Nick Diaz (165 lbs) vs. Josh Thomson (165 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Andrei Arlovski (235 lbs) vs. Sergei Kharitonov (240 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Kevin Randleman (205 lbs) vs. Melvin Manhoef (205 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Mizuto Hirota (165 lbs) vs. Caol Uno (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Chael Sonnen (185 lbs) vs. Sanae Kikuta (185 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Hong Man Choi (265 lbs) vs. Peter Graham (250 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Carlos Newton (185 lbs) vs. Izuru Takeuchi (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Gesias Cavalcante (165 lbs) vs. Satoru Kitaoka (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Hector Lombard (185 lbs) vs. Krysztof Kulak (185 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Kazuyuki Miyata (145 lbs) vs. Bibiano Fernandes (145 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Jason High (165 lbs) vs. Nobutatsu Suzuki (165 lbs)

vladjarca · February 12, 2021

Heavyweight Bout: Josh Barnett (265 lbs) vs. Alistair Overeem (245 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Nick Diaz (165 lbs) vs. Josh Thomson (165 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Andrei Arlovski (235 lbs) vs. Sergei Kharitonov (240 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Kevin Randleman (205 lbs) vs. Melvin Manhoef (205 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Mizuto Hirota (165 lbs) vs. Caol Uno (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Chael Sonnen (185 lbs) vs. Sanae Kikuta (185 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Heavyweight Bout: Hong Man Choi (265 lbs) vs. Peter Graham (250 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Carlos Newton (185 lbs) vs. Izuru Takeuchi (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Gesias Cavalcante (165 lbs) vs. Satoru Kitaoka (165 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Hector Lombard (185 lbs) vs. Krysztof Kulak (185 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Kazuyuki Miyata (145 lbs) vs. Bibiano Fernandes (145 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Jason High (165 lbs) vs. Nobutatsu Suzuki (165 lbs)

WHAT A MAIN CARD! Might be your best one yet IMO

rodrigoviolim · February 13, 2021

Matt Edwards (ME): Hi, I'm Matt Edwards! Live from Saitama Super Arena. Today Josh Barnett and Alistair Overeem will fight for the chance to compete for the Heavyweight belt against Fedor Emelianenko. Will today's winner be able to overcome the Russian legend?

With me tonight my broadcast partner Daniel Tuxford.

Good night Daniel!

Daniel Tuxford (DT): Good night Matt and MMA fans! Yes Matt, Barnett vs. Overeem will be a great fight and as it has already been announced the winner faces Fedor and fans from all over the world will keep an eye on this fight and the event still has the rivalry between Diaz and Thomson that will be resolved in the ring tonight Matt.

ME: Come on! Here everything is ready for the opening of the event. And right after that we are already going to the first fight MMA fans, who will accompany us tonight on blurcat.com. Now it's up to her, the "PRIDE voice" Lenne Hardt!

Lenne Hardt: PRIDE 43: FOREVEEEEEER Liveeeee from Saitama Super Areeeenaaaa! Now here comes the full card!

The first match!!! From Japan, Nobutatsu Suzuki! From USA, Jason High!!!

Second match; From Brazil, Bibiano Fernandes!!! From Japaan, Kazuyuki Miyataaaaaa!!

Third Match; From Poland, Krysztof Kulaaaaak! From Cuba, Hectoooor Lombaaaard!!!

Fourth match; From Japaaan, Satoruuuu Kitaokaaaaa! From Braziiiil, Gesiaaaaas Cavalcanteeeeee!!!

Fifth match; Frommm Japaaan, Izuru Takeuchiii!!! Frrrrrom Canada!!! Caaaarlos Newtooon!!!

Sixth match; From Australia, Peeeeter Grahaaaam!!! Frrrrom South Korea, Hoooong Maaaan Choiiii!!

Seventh match; Froooom Japaaaan, Saaaanaaae Kiiikuutaaa!!!! Frooom USAAAA, Chaaaaael Soooonnneeeen!!!

Eighth match; Frooom Japaaaan, Caool Unooo!! Froooooommm Jaaaapaaan, Mizutoooo Hiroootaaa!!

Ninth match; Froooooommm Netherlands, Melviiiiin Manhoeffff!! Frooom USAAA, Keeeevin Randlemaaaaan!!!

Tenth match; Froooooommm Russiaaaa, Sergeeeeeei Khaaaaritonoooovvv!! Frooom Belaruuuussss, Aaaaaaaandrei Aaaaarlovskiiiii!!!

Eleventh match; Froooooommm USAAA, Joooooosh Thooomsooonnn!!! Frooom USAAAA, Niiiiick Diaaaaaaaazzzzzz!!!

Final match: Frooooom Netherlaaaaaaanddddsss, Alistaiiiiirrrrr Oveeeeeeeeereeeeemmmm!!!! Frooooooooommmm USAAAAA, Joooooooosh Baaaaarrrneeeettttt!!!!

PRIDE 43: FOREVER LIVE IN SAITAMA SUPER ARENA IS NOOOOOOOW!!!!!!

Preliminary Card

Lightweight Bout

Jason High (7-0) vs. Nobutatsu Suzuki (6-0-2)

Our first fight of the night is 'The Kansas City Bandit' Jason High (7-0, 1-0 PRIDE) battling Nobutatsu Suzuki (6-0-2, 0-0 PRIDE).

Refereeing this bout will be Mario Yamasaki. The judges for this bout are: Miyoshi Shigematsu, Chris Watts, and Chris Lee.

Suzuki is fighting in front of a home crowd tonight, and gets a big cheer as he makes his entrance.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fight begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:53) The two fighters come together and strike but it's really tentative and nothing comes of it.
(Rd 1 - 09:25) High shoots in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:25) High gets hold of a leg but Suzuki remains standing, hopping on the other foot.
(Rd 1 - 09:25) High uses the position to drive Suzuki up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:13) High looks for a takedown by grabbing both his opponent's legs and trying to trip him to the mat.
(Rd 1 - 09:13) High has the takedown and is left on top of a turtled up Suzuki.
(Rd 1 - 08:57) High tries to put Suzuki in a rear naked choke.
(Rd 1 - 08:57) High gets Suzuki flattened out...he has to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 08:39) Jason High takes the victory by way of submission!

Official Result: Jason High def. Nobutatsu Suzuki by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 1:21 of Round 1.

Featherweight Bout
Kazuyuki Miyata (5-6) vs. Bibiano Fernandes (2-1)

Next up, 'Little Hercules' Kazuyuki Miyata (5-6, 1-2 PRIDE) competing against Bibiano 'The Flash' Fernandes (2-1, 1-0 PRIDE).

Yuji Shimada will be the referee. Our judges at ringside are: Chris Watts, Chris Lee, and Tsumemasa Kawakami.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:55) Miyata moves in and clinches.
(Rd 1 - 09:39) Miyata tries to take Fernandes down.
(Rd 1 - 09:39) Miyata can't get the takedown as Fernandes wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 09:24) Using his wrestling skills, Fernandes is trying to push Miyata up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:24) Fernandes manages it and controls Miyata up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) Fernandes attempts a trip to put Miyata on the ground.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) It's unsuccessful, Miyata maintained a good solid base.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) Miyata can't seem to work his way free though.
(Rd 1 - 08:51) Fernandes looks to sweep a leg in order to execute a sharp trip.
(Rd 1 - 08:51) Miyata has no answer to a great trip!
(Rd 1 - 08:51) Fernandes takes the back off the takedown.
(Rd 1 - 08:21) Fernandes tries to get his hooks in, but can't.
(Rd 1 - 08:10) Fernandes blocks Miyata as he tries to roll over.
(Rd 1 - 07:50) Miyata prevents himself falling into even more serious trouble, blocking Fernandes from getting hooks in.
(Rd 1 - 07:29) Fernandes blocks an attempt to roll him off of the back.
(Rd 1 - 07:13) Miyata prevents Fernandes from getting his hooks in.
(Rd 1 - 06:51) Miyata tries to move Fernandes off his back but can't.
(Rd 1 - 06:29) Miyata does well to block an attempt to apply a body triangle.
(Rd 1 - 06:04) Miyata tries to turn over and sweep Fernandes but can't do it.
(Rd 1 - 05:47) With no progress being made, referee Yuji Shimada stands them back up.
(Rd 1 - 05:40) There's a takedown attempt from Fernandes.
(Rd 1 - 05:40) The takedown is successful, he almost gets side control but has to settle for half guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:29) In half guard, Fernandes begins working to get side control.
(Rd 1 - 05:29) Fernandes is too skilled for Miyata, passing half guard and gaining side control.
(Rd 1 - 04:32) Fernandes attempts to kimura Miyata from side control.
(Rd 1 - 04:32) Fernandes gets the kimura fully applied and Miyata has to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 03:59) The winner, by submission, is Bibiano 'The Flash' Fernandes!

Official Result: Bibiano Fernandes def. Kazuyuki Miyata by Submission (Kimura) in 6:01 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout
Hector Lombard (12-2-1 NC) vs. Krysztof Kulak (18-5-2)

Next up is a match in which Hector Lombard (12-2-1 NC, 1-2 PRIDE) fights Krzysztof 'Model' Kulak (18-5-2, 1-0 PRIDE).

Yuji Shimada is the referee for this fight. The judges for this bout are: Chris Lee, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Kawaguchi Kazuo.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) They touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:54) Lombard had looked like he was angling to grapple, but couldn't take the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 09:54) Kulak throws a quick punch but doesn't hit.
(Rd 1 - 09:42) Lombard steps forward and a striking exchange begins.
(Rd 1 - 09:42) Kulak scores with two counter jabs.
(Rd 1 - 09:42) Lombard throws a two-punch combo but Kulak avoids both.
(Rd 1 - 09:25) The two fighters engage with strikes but neither lands anything worthwhile.
(Rd 1 - 09:00) They come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 09:00) Lombard uses a left jab and also hits a good right hand. Kulak is off-target with a jab but hits a good right hand.
(Rd 1 - 08:51) Running his mouth, Lombard trash talks his opponent.
(Rd 1 - 08:40) Kulak throws a quick one-two but doesn't land either blow.
(Rd 1 - 08:32) Seizing the opportunity, Lombard clinches.
(Rd 1 - 08:23) Using his wrestling skills, Lombard is trying to push Kulak up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:23) Lombard achieves it, pinning Kulak to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:05) Lombard keeps Kulak up against the ropes with wrestling, then uses a hard foot stomp.
(Rd 1 - 07:57) Lombard attempts to set up a judo-based throw to take Kulak to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 07:57) Kulak has no answer to a great hip throw, he is left down under side control!
(Rd 1 - 07:38) Lombard starts trying to work to go from side control to mount.
(Rd 1 - 07:38) Kulak doesn't allow Lombard to get the mount.
(Rd 1 - 06:58) Kulak tries to move to guard, but Lombard doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 06:40) Lombard begins trying to get himself into mount.
(Rd 1 - 06:40) Lombard shows his ground skills and slips to mount.
(Rd 1 - 06:11) Lombard pounds away on Kulak, landing several good shots in the process.
(Rd 1 - 05:54) Lombard unloads with big right hands and Kulak is struggling to cope!
(Rd 1 - 05:54) Referee Yuji Shimada pulls Lombard away, stopping the fight!
(Rd 1 - 05:54) That seemed like an early stoppage to me.
(Rd 1 - 05:40) The winner, by TKO; Hector Lombard!

Official Result: Hector Lombard def. Krysztof Kulak by TKO (Strikes) in 4:20 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout
Gesias Cavalcante (13-2-1) vs. Satoru Kitaoka (19-9-9)

Moving on to the next match, in which Gesias 'JZ' Cavalcante (13-2-1, 2-1 PRIDE) faces Satoru Kitaoka (19-9-9, 0-2 PRIDE).

Mario Yamasaki is the referee for this fight. The judges are: Kawaguchi Kazuo, Miyoshi Shigematsu, and Chris Watts.

The fighters both weighed in at 165lbs yesterday, but now that they're about to fight it is obvious that Cavalcante is much bigger.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) They touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:52) Stepping in, Kitaoka aggressively get a dominant clinch position.
(Rd 1 - 09:35) Kitaoka looks to take Cavalcante down by setting up a judo throw.
(Rd 1 - 09:35) It's unsuccessful, Cavalcante maintained a good solid base.
(Rd 1 - 09:20) With Cavalcante in his grasp, Kitaoka tries to set up a judo-style throw.
(Rd 1 - 09:20) Cavalcante blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base.
(Rd 1 - 09:08) Kitaoka gets out-wrestled and Cavalcante takes control of the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 08:51) Cavalcante tries to get Kitaoka into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 08:51) Kitaoka doesn't let himself get caught, and slips out of the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 08:28) A jab hits home from Cavalcante and then he scores with a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 08:15) Seeing his opponent about to shoot in, Kitaoka timed it well and moved in to start a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 07:56) With Cavalcante controlled by the clinch, Kitaoka looks to be attempting to set up a judo throw.
(Rd 1 - 07:56) Cavalcante blocks the attempted throw and takes control of the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 07:40) Cavalcante tries to wrestle Kitaoka backward and up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 07:40) Cavalcante manages it and controls Kitaoka up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 07:23) Cavalcante is trying to lock Kitaoka into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 07:23) Cavalcante manages it and now controls Kitaoka by the back of the head.
(Rd 1 - 07:12) Cavalcante misses a knee strike, but maintains his control of the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 06:47) From the clinch, Cavalcante drives a huge knee to the stomach.
(Rd 1 - 06:31) Kitaoka blocks a knee strike, but cannot get free of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 06:03) Kitaoka wrestles free of the Muay Thai clinch after blocking a knee strike.
(Rd 1 - 05:18) Kitaoka looked like he was going to step in and grapple, but Cavalcante simply took the initiative first.
(Rd 1 - 05:18) A jab is wide from Cavalcante, but then he hits a nice straight right that lands hard.
(Rd 1 - 05:14) Covering up, Kitaoka backs off until trapped against the ropes! Cavalcante may have rocked him!
(Rd 1 - 05:14) Cavalcante is trying to lock Kitaoka into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:14) Kitaoka fights it off somehow.
(Rd 1 - 04:55) Kitaoka circles back to the center, having gotten the time he needed to regain his wits somewhat.
(Rd 1 - 04:55) We move into the second half of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:43) An exchange of strikes sees both fighters fail to land anything significant.
(Rd 1 - 04:21) Cavalcante connects with a nice jab and then lands a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 03:59) Cavalcante can't hit a set-up left jab, but then lands a big right hand.
(Rd 1 - 03:52) Cavalcante is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 1 - 03:40) The two fighters clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:40) Cavalcante wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:34) Cavalcante is looking to get Kitaoka in a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:34) Cavalcante doesn't manage it though, as Kitaoka slips out of the grapple and gets away.
(Rd 1 - 03:18) Seeing his opponent about to shoot in, Kitaoka timed it well and moved in to start a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:06) With Cavalcante controlled by the clinch, Kitaoka looks to be attempting to set up a judo throw.
(Rd 1 - 03:06) Cavalcante is taken down by a quick inside leg trip, he can do nothing but pull guard!
(Rd 1 - 02:51) Kitaoka fires away with punches, but does little in the way of damage.
(Rd 1 - 02:39) Cavalcante tries to pull Kitaoka in close and pepper him with short strikes, but can't.
(Rd 1 - 02:22) In guard, Kitaoka begins working to pass to side control.
(Rd 1 - 02:22) Cavalcante was ready for the pass attempt though and starts scrambling immediately.
(Rd 1 - 02:10) The scramble sees Cavalcante up first, only to be grabbed and wrestled up against the ropes almost immediately.
(Rd 1 - 01:51) Kitaoka looks to take Cavalcante down by setting up a judo throw.
(Rd 1 - 01:51) It's unsuccessful, Cavalcante maintained a good solid base.
(Rd 1 - 01:32) Kitaoka looks to take Cavalcante down by setting up a judo throw.
(Rd 1 - 01:32) Cavalcante stops the attempted throw, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple and put Kitaoka against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:09) Cavalcante tries to get Kitaoka into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 01:09) Kitaoka can't fight it off and ends up caught.
(Rd 1 - 00:49) Using the clinch, Cavalcante blasts Kitaoka with a sternum-crunching knee to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 00:36) Cavalcante tries a knee strike but doesn't connect, but Kitaoka isn't able to get free of the clinch either.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) The time runs out on round one.

(Rd 1 - 00:00) Kitaoka is showing clear signs of the beating his body has taken thus far tonight, there are red marks all around his rib cage.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell and the final round begins!
(Rd 2 - 04:45) Kitaoka gets close enough to clinch.
(Rd 2 - 04:34) Kitaoka looks to set up a judo throw.
(Rd 2 - 04:34) Cavalcante blocks the attempted throw and takes control of the grapple.
(Rd 2 - 04:23) Cavalcante is aiming to get Kitaoka into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 2 - 04:23) Cavalcante achieves it, Kitaoka could not fight out of it.
(Rd 2 - 04:04) From the clinch, Cavalcante drives a huge knee to the stomach.
(Rd 2 - 03:53) Kitaoka tries to wrestle free of the Muay Thai clinch, but cannot.
(Rd 2 - 03:29) Cavalcante tries a knee strike, but Kitaoka blocks it and wrestles his way out of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 2 - 03:03) A little fatigue may be creeping in, Cavalcante is starting to move noticeably more slowly now.
(Rd 2 - 03:03) Kitaoka is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 2 - 02:48) A jab hits home from Cavalcante and then he hits a nice straight right that lands hard.
(Rd 2 - 02:40) Kitaoka was rocked by that last shot! He backs away until up against the ropes, covering up, but looks very unsteady!
(Rd 2 - 02:40) Cavalcante is trying to lock Kitaoka into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 2 - 02:40) Cavalcante achieves it, Kitaoka is too dazed and could not fight free.
(Rd 2 - 02:24) We are now at the halfway point of the round.
(Rd 2 - 02:24) Kitaoka blocks a knee strike, but cannot get free of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 2 - 02:03) Kitaoka wrestles free of the Muay Thai clinch after blocking a knee strike.
(Rd 2 - 01:27) Seeing his opponent about to shoot in, Kitaoka timed it well and moved in to start a clinch.
(Rd 2 - 01:12) Kitaoka attempts to set up a judo-based throw to take Cavalcante to the ground.
(Rd 2 - 01:12) It doesn't work, Cavalcante defended against it well.
(Rd 2 - 00:57) Breathing very hard, Cavalcante is looking ragged.
(Rd 2 - 00:57) There's under a minute left in this round.
(Rd 2 - 00:57) Kitaoka looks to set up a judo throw.
(Rd 2 - 00:57) The throw doesn't work, Cavalcante blocked it and then takes control of the grapple.
(Rd 2 - 00:32) Using his wrestling skills, Cavalcante is trying to push Kitaoka up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:32) Cavalcante does it, Kitaoka is stuck with his back to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:13) Cavalcante is aiming to get Kitaoka into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 2 - 00:13) He has it hooked, Kitaoka needs to find a way out quickly.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The time runs out and that round is over, and so is the fight.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) Here come the official decisions.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have given Cavalcante the win.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) So the winner, by unanimous decision, is Gesias 'JZ' Cavalcante!

Official Result: Gesias Cavalcante def. Satoru Kitaoka by Unanimous Decision.

Welterweight Bout
Carlos Newton (16-13) vs. Izuru Takeuchi (21-11-6)

Moving on, 'The Ronin' Carlos Newton (16-13, 5-5 PRIDE) competes against Izuru Takeuchi (21-11-6, 0-1 PRIDE).

Our referee is Yuji Shimada. Our ringside judges are: Chris Watts, Chris Lee, and Tsumemasa Kawakami.

The fighters both weighed in at 185lbs yesterday, but now that they're about to fight it is obvious that Newton is much bigger.

Takeuchi, being in front of a home crowd, gets a loud cheer as he enters.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell!
(Rd 1 - 09:48) Newton looked like he was about to shoot, but Takeuchi stepped in fast and started a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:35) Takeuchi attempts a leg-sweep trip to put Newton on the ground.
(Rd 1 - 09:35) Takeuchi doesn't get the trip, Newton instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 09:19) Newton looks for a trip takedown by sweeping a leg.
(Rd 1 - 09:19) Newton doesn't get it, Takeuchi blocked any attempt to move him.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) Newton tries to use a trip takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:04) It's unsuccessful, Takeuchi maintained a good solid base.
(Rd 1 - 08:53) Newton tries to wrestle Takeuchi backward and up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:53) Newton does it, Takeuchi is stuck with his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:41) Newton drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down.
(Rd 1 - 08:41) The takedown is successful and he gets side control too.
(Rd 1 - 08:24) Newton throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move.
(Rd 1 - 08:03) Newton blocks Takeuchi as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 1 - 07:44) Newton throws some small strikes, but is clearly just taking a moment to try and catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 07:18) Takeuchi tries to move to guard, but Newton doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 07:03) Looking to catch his breath, Newton is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 06:38) Newton blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 06:24) Newton throws a few right hands, but is mainly trying to catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 06:01) Takeuchi tries to pull guard on Newton but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 05:46) With no progress being made, the referee stands them back up.
(Rd 1 - 05:34) Newton comes in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 05:34) Takeuchi partially defends it and ends up hopping on one foot while Newton has a hold of the other.
(Rd 1 - 05:34) With Takeuchi not going down, Newton settles for pushing him up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 05:14) Newton tries to maintain control, but Takeuchi wrestles his way out of trouble and circles back to the center.
(Rd 1 - 05:00) We go past the halfway point of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:50) Newton chooses to shoot in on Takeuchi.
(Rd 1 - 04:50) Takeuchi partially defends it and ends up hopping on one foot while Newton has a hold of the other.
(Rd 1 - 04:50) Newton drives Takeuchi up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:30) With the ropes trapping Takeuchi, Newton looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 1 - 04:30) Takeuchi cannot stop the takedown and gives up side control.
(Rd 1 - 04:11) In side control, Newton throws a couple of punches designed to keep Takeuchi guessing.
(Rd 1 - 03:47) Takeuchi tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 03:32) Newton throws some small strikes, but is clearly just taking a moment to try and catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 03:11) Takeuchi tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 02:54) Newton looks to get a mount.
(Rd 1 - 02:54) Takeuchi fights the attempted mount off, and they wind up scrambling for position.
(Rd 1 - 02:39) Newton ends up having to pull half guard, losing out in the scramble.
(Rd 1 - 02:21) Takeuchi attempts to pass half guard.
(Rd 1 - 02:21) He can't find a way past half guard.
(Rd 1 - 01:43) Newton tries to get full guard on Takeuchi but doesn't get anywhere.
(Rd 1 - 01:31) In half guard, Takeuchi begins working to get side control.
(Rd 1 - 01:31) Newton tries to counter the pass attempt, and they find themselves scrambling for position.
(Rd 1 - 01:17) The scramble sees Newton up first, and he is quick to wrestle Takeuchi up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:01) Showing his ability to grind down opponents, Newton is keeping Takeuchi pressed up tightly against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:01) They remain there for at least a minute, hitting each other with short punches to the body and side of the head.
(Rd 1 - 00:12) Newton tries to take Takeuchi down.
(Rd 1 - 00:12) Newton can't get the takedown as Takeuchi wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) Time expires and we come to the end of round one.

Round 2

(Rd 2 - 05:00) And here we go, one last round!
(Rd 2 - 04:46) Newton chooses to move forward and shoot in, trying to take Takeuchi down.
(Rd 2 - 04:46) Newton gets hold of a leg but Takeuchi remains standing, hopping on the other foot.
(Rd 2 - 04:46) Newton can't get Takeuchi down and so settles for pushing him up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:30) Takeuchi is pressed up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:30) They exchange short punches to the body for about half a minute.
(Rd 2 - 03:49) Newton doesn't look like he has much left in the tank.
(Rd 2 - 03:49) Newton tries to take Takeuchi down.
(Rd 2 - 03:49) Takeuchi cannot stop the takedown and has to pull guard.
(Rd 2 - 03:37) Newton pounds away, but Takeuchi calmly deals with them.
(Rd 2 - 03:21) Newton leans back to avoid a couple of wild swings from Takeuchi.
(Rd 2 - 03:01) Newton throws a few right hands to the body.
(Rd 2 - 02:35) Takeuchi pulls Newton down in close and hits him with a couple of short punches to the side of the head.
(Rd 2 - 02:17) Newton looks to get past the guard.
(Rd 2 - 02:17) He passes guard but loses his control momentarily and a scramble begins.
(Rd 2 - 02:06) The scramble results in Newton being on his back pulling half guard.
(Rd 2 - 01:50) Takeuchi fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves.
(Rd 2 - 01:21) Newton tries to transition to full guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 2 - 01:02) In half guard, Takeuchi begins working to get side control.
(Rd 2 - 01:02) Half guard proves to be no trouble for Takeuchi, who passes to side control with ease.
(Rd 2 - 00:27) Takeuchi fires away with punches, and Newton is stung by several big shots.
(Rd 2 - 00:16) Takeuchi fires away with punches, but Newton doesn't take any undue damage.
(Rd 2 - 00:02) Takeuchi blocks Newton as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The fight comes to an end as the time limit expires.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The official decisions are being reported now.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) Chris Watts has called it a victory for Newton.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) Chris Lee has given Takeuchi the win.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) Tsumemasa Kawakami: Newton.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) Making 'The Ronin' Carlos Newton the winner by split decision!

Official Result: Carlos Newton def. Izuru Takeuchi by Split Decision.

Heavyweight Bout
Hong Man Choi (2-1) vs. Peter Graham (0-0)

In the last of the preliminary fights, 'Techno Goliath' Hong Man Choi (2-1, 1-1 PRIDE) takes on Peter 'The Chief' Graham (0-0, 0-0 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Heavyweight division.

Our referee is Marc Goddard. Our ringside judges are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Kawaguchi Kazuo, and Miyoshi Shigematsu.

Choi is much taller than his opponent, towering over him as the referee gives them their instructions.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fight begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:47) They stand and trade in the center of the ring but neither fighter gives or takes any real damage.
(Rd 1 - 09:09) They stand and trade in the center of the ring but neither fighter can land a good shot.
(Rd 1 - 08:40) They come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 08:40) Choi misses a right hook and gets countered with a jab and a quick kick to the lead leg.
(Rd 1 - 08:14) Both fighters come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 08:14) Choi misses a right cross that leaves him open to the counter. Graham attacks with a quick left jab and a quick kick.
(Rd 1 - 07:42) Both fighters come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 07:42) There's a flurry of activity but neither fighter is able to land a telling strike.
(Rd 1 - 07:42) Graham misses with a head kick attempt.
(Rd 1 - 07:42) Choi misses a jab and also has a right hand absorbed on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 07:30) Choi is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 1 - 07:22) They exchange strikes but nothing really gets through.
(Rd 1 - 06:51) Both fighters meet in the center.
(Rd 1 - 06:51) Choi connects with a left hand.
(Rd 1 - 06:51) Graham is off-target with a jab but scores with a great right hook.
(Rd 1 - 06:26) The two combatants meet in the center and start to strike.
(Rd 1 - 06:26) Choi misses a right cross that leaves him wide open to the counter. Graham comes in with a quick left jab and a low kick that doesn't connect.
(Rd 1 - 06:08) Choi is breathing very hard.
(Rd 1 - 06:08) Graham is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 1 - 05:54) Both fighters move in and engage.
(Rd 1 - 05:54) Graham slips past a right hook attempt and attacks with a left jab and a right hook that is avoided at the last second.
(Rd 1 - 05:31) The two combatants meet in the center and start to strike.
(Rd 1 - 05:31) Choi misses a right hook and leaves himself open to be countered with a quick left jab and a low kick that doesn't connect.
(Rd 1 - 05:17) Graham grabs Choi, who looks shattered, and pulls him into a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:17) Using his wrestling skills, Graham is trying to push Choi up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 05:17) Choi ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:58) We move into the second half of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:58) Graham hits a knee strike to the side of the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 04:43) Graham pins Choi up against the ropes and stomps down hard on his foot.
(Rd 1 - 04:34) Graham attempts to hit a knee but Choi tightens the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 04:14) Graham catches Choi with a knee strike to the thigh.
(Rd 1 - 04:04) Graham doesn't look like he has much left in the tank.
(Rd 1 - 04:04) Choi takes a hard foot stomp.
(Rd 1 - 03:51) Graham goes for a knee to the thigh but Choi wrestles free and circles back to the center.
(Rd 1 - 03:33) The two fighters engage with strikes but neither lands anything worthwhile.
(Rd 1 - 03:16) The fighters fall into a sloppy clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:16) Graham is looking to muscle Choi back against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:16) Graham does it, Choi is stuck with his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:00) Graham smothers Choi against the ropes, then hits him with a knee strike to the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 02:49) Graham catches Choi with a knee strike to the ribs from the clinch while he is pressed up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 02:37) Graham catches Choi with a knee strike to the thigh.
(Rd 1 - 02:30) Graham tries to throw a knee to the thigh, but Choi seizes the chance to create some space and break free.
(Rd 1 - 02:17) Choi looks very, very tired.
(Rd 1 - 02:12) The two fighters come forward and engage.
(Rd 1 - 02:12) Choi misses a right cross that leaves him wide open to the counter. Graham comes in with a right hand that landed cleanly.
(Rd 1 - 01:56) Retreating until backed against the ropes, Choi looks punch-drunk...he may be in big trouble! He is covering up as best as he can, but is vulnerable!
(Rd 1 - 01:56) Graham smashes Choi with a big right hand through the guard! Choi can do nothing but try and cover up!
(Rd 1 - 01:52) Choi eats a right hook and is barely able to stand anymore! The ropes is the only reason he is still upright!
(Rd 1 - 01:52) The referee pulls Graham away, stopping the fight! Choi is left slumped against the ropes, dazed and wobbling.
(Rd 1 - 01:52) That looked like a late call, referee Marc Goddard should have gotten in there earlier.
(Rd 1 - 01:43) Peter 'The Chief' Graham takes the win by TKO!

Official Result: Peter Graham def. Hong Man Choi by TKO (Strikes) in 8:17 of Round 1.

Main Card

Welterweight Bout
Chael Sonnen (21-9-1) vs. Sanae Kikuta (27-9-3-1 NC)

We open the main portion of the show with Chael Sonnen (21-9-1, 2-1 PRIDE) competing against Sanae Kikuta (27-9-3-1 NC, 4-4-1 NC PRIDE).

Our referee is Mario Yamasaki. Our ringside judges are: Miyoshi Shigematsu, Chris Watts, and Chris Lee.

There's a roar from the crowd as Kikuta enters, he is from around here.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell!
(Rd 1 - 09:51) They come together and start wrestling in the over-under clinch position.
(Rd 1 - 09:51) Sonnen is the aggressor in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:45) Sonnen tries to wrestle Kikuta backward and up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:45) Sonnen achieves it, pinning Kikuta to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:29) Sonnen uses a hard foot stomp.
(Rd 1 - 09:16) With Kikuta stuck against the ropes, Sonnen gets the underhooks and looks for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:16) A sweep of the legs is successful, Kikuta has to pull half guard.
(Rd 1 - 09:03) Looking to catch his breath, Sonnen is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 08:44) Sonnen blocks an attempted move from half guard to full guard.
(Rd 1 - 08:29) Sonnen throws a few left hands to the body.
(Rd 1 - 08:11) Kikuta tries to move from half guard to full guard, but Sonnen doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 08:00) In half guard, Sonnen throws a couple of punches designed to keep Kikuta guessing.
(Rd 1 - 07:44) Sonnen pounds away, but Kikuta calmly deals with them.
(Rd 1 - 07:33) Sonnen blocks Kikuta as he tries a transition to full guard.
(Rd 1 - 07:17) Sonnen keeps Kikuta guessing with a few quick strikes.
(Rd 1 - 06:50) Looking to catch his breath, Sonnen is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 06:28) Kikuta tries to move from half guard to full guard, but Sonnen doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 06:15) Referee Mario Yamasaki decides that there is a lack of progress being made and stands them back up.
(Rd 1 - 06:00) Both fighters seem to have the same idea and come together in a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 06:00) Sonnen is the aggressor in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:51) Sonnen has worked in the underhooks and looks to take Kikuta down.
(Rd 1 - 05:51) Kikuta cannot stop being lifted up and blasted with a Greco-Roman slam, he can only pull guard!
(Rd 1 - 05:36) Sonnen clings very tight to Kikuta while using short strikes, clearly trying to minimise the threat of a submission attempt.
(Rd 1 - 05:22) Kikuta grabs hold of a leg, seemingly intent on trying to sweep Sonnen from the bottom of the guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:22) Sonnen pulls his leg away and stops the sweep entirely.
(Rd 1 - 04:51) We pass the halfway mark of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:51) Clearly worried by the submission threat, Sonnen keeps very tight to Kikuta and peppers him with short strikes.
(Rd 1 - 04:34) Grabbing a leg, Kikuta attempts a sweep of some kind.
(Rd 1 - 04:34) Sonnen pulls his leg away and stops the sweep entirely.
(Rd 1 - 03:57) For the moment Sonnen is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 03:34) Kikuta reaches down and grabs a leg, perhaps looking to try and use it to help sweep Sonnen.
(Rd 1 - 03:34) Sonnen doesn't let Kikuta get the sweep.
(Rd 1 - 03:16) Sonnen peppers Kikuta with small strikes, making sure to keep very tight and not give him any room to work with.
(Rd 1 - 03:04) Kikuta grabs one of his opponent's legs and looks to be attempting a sweep of some kind.
(Rd 1 - 03:04) Sonnen blocks the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 02:39) Sonnen throws a few strikes, but they are without venom.
(Rd 1 - 02:17) Not allowing his opponent any room to work submissions from, Sonnen keeps close contact and throws short, stinging strikes.
(Rd 1 - 02:04) Grabbing a leg, Kikuta attempts a sweep of some kind.
(Rd 1 - 02:04) Sonnen pulls his leg away and stops the sweep entirely.
(Rd 1 - 01:32) The lack of progress forces referee Mario Yamasaki to stand the fighters back up.
(Rd 1 - 01:17) They come together and start wrestling in the over-under clinch position.
(Rd 1 - 01:17) Sonnen seems to be the aggressor.
(Rd 1 - 01:11) Getting underhooks, Sonnen looks for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 01:11) A sweep of the legs is successful, Kikuta has to pull half guard.
(Rd 1 - 00:52) We're into the final minute of the round.
(Rd 1 - 00:52) Sonnen punches down at Kikuta, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 00:23) Kikuta tries to transition to full guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 00:07) Sonnen fires away with left hands, but Kikuta doesn't take much damage.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) The time is up, and that's the end of round one.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) Hopefully the next round will produce a little more in the way of action.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell for the start of the final round!
(Rd 2 - 04:54) The two fighters clinch.
(Rd 2 - 04:54) Sonnen manages to get control of the clinch.
(Rd 2 - 04:47) From the grapple, Sonnen tries to pick Kikuta up on his shoulder for a slam.
(Rd 2 - 04:47) There's the slam! Kikuta is planted onto his back, and can only stop Sonnen at side control.
(Rd 2 - 04:32) Sonnen fires away with punches, but Kikuta doesn't take any undue damage.
(Rd 2 - 04:13) Kikuta tries to move to guard, but Sonnen doesn't allow it.
(Rd 2 - 03:54) Sonnen fires away with punches, but Kikuta doesn't take any undue damage.
(Rd 2 - 03:36) Kikuta tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 2 - 03:24) Sonnen throws a few strikes, but they are without venom.
(Rd 2 - 03:07) Sonnen blocks Kikuta as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 2 - 02:55) Sonnen pounds away with lefts, but Kikuta covers up and only a couple manage to get through.
(Rd 2 - 02:42) Kikuta tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 2 - 02:26) We pass the halfway mark of this round.
(Rd 2 - 02:26) In side control, Sonnen throws a couple of punches designed to keep Kikuta guessing.
(Rd 2 - 02:08) Sonnen unloads with big left hands, but Kikuta is able to deal with most of them.
(Rd 2 - 01:55) Kikuta tries to pull guard on Sonnen but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 2 - 01:39) Sonnen pounds away with left hands, but doesn't do much damage.
(Rd 2 - 01:19) Kikuta tries to move to guard, but Sonnen doesn't allow it.
(Rd 2 - 01:03) Sonnen pounds away with punches but does minimal damage.
(Rd 2 - 00:46) Kikuta tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 2 - 00:29) Sonnen pounds away with lefts but fails to land any significant blows.
(Rd 2 - 00:10) Kikuta tries to move to guard, but Sonnen doesn't allow it.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The time runs out and that round is over, and so is the fight.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The ring announcer is now giving the official decisions.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) Chris Lee has given Kikuta the win.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) Miyoshi Shigematsu has given Sonnen the win.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) Chris Watts has given Sonnen the win.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) Making Chael Sonnen the winner by split decision!

Official Result:Chael Sonnen def. Sanae Kikuta by Split Decision.

Lightweight Bout
Mizuto Hirota (10-1) vs. Caol Uno (25-12-4)

Another match is about to begin; Mizuto Hirota (10-1, 1-0 PRIDE) fighting 'Uno Shoten' Caol Uno (25-12-4, 2-3 PRIDE).

Yuji Shimada is the referee for this fight. The judges for this bout are: Miyoshi Shigematsu, Chris Watts, and Chris Lee.

The crowd gives both fighters a good reaction during their entrances, you have two hometown fighters squaring off in this bout.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 09:55) Hirota confidently comes in closer.
(Rd 1 - 09:55) Uno had looked like he was angling for a takedown attempt, but couldn't take the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 09:55) Hirota can't connect with a jab, but then hits a nice straight right that lands hard.
(Rd 1 - 09:42) Hirota confidently moves in closer, looking to throw some strikes.
(Rd 1 - 09:42) Uno may have been setting up to shoot, but Hirota aggressively took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 09:42) Hirota connects with a nice jab and then catches Uno with a right hook.
(Rd 1 - 09:27) Uno had looked like he was angling for a takedown attempt, but couldn't take the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 09:27) A jab is wide from Hirota, but then he catches Uno with a right hook.
(Rd 1 - 09:10) Hirota hits a left jab and then catches Uno with a crunching right hook.
(Rd 1 - 08:50) Uno appeared to be going for a takedown, but Hirota took the initiative first.
(Rd 1 - 08:50) Hirota can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then hits Uno with a straight right.
(Rd 1 - 08:36) Hirota hits a left hand, but finds nothing but air with a big right.
(Rd 1 - 08:16) Hirota steps in and looks to unleash.
(Rd 1 - 08:16) Uno, backing off, hits a weak left hand.
(Rd 1 - 08:16) A jab is wide from Hirota, but then he catches Uno with a right hook.
(Rd 1 - 08:06) Hirota lands a jab and then lands a vicious right cross!
(Rd 1 - 08:06) Uno hits the mat, that shot has rocked him!
(Rd 1 - 07:57) Moving quickly, Hirota comes in looking to finish with soccer kicks and stomps!
(Rd 1 - 07:57) Hirota is too slow though, and Uno is back up.
(Rd 1 - 07:36) Hirota comes in looking to strike.
(Rd 1 - 07:36) It looked like we were about to see a shot from Uno, but Hirota was more aggressive and took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 07:36) Hirota hits a left jab and then hits a nice straight right.
(Rd 1 - 07:17) Hirota closes in on Uno, looking to unleash some strikes.
(Rd 1 - 07:17) Uno hits two tentative left hands, neither with anything behind them.
(Rd 1 - 07:17) Hirota doesn't trouble his opponent with a combination ending in a high right head kick.
(Rd 1 - 06:54) Uno appeared to be going for a takedown, but Hirota took the initiative first.
(Rd 1 - 06:54) Hirota fails to find a home for his jab, but then hits a nice straight right.
(Rd 1 - 06:35) There's a takedown attempt from Uno.
(Rd 1 - 06:35) Hirota stops the takedown with a great sprawl. He steps away to safety.
(Rd 1 - 06:18) Uno looked like he was going to step in and grapple, but Hirota simply took the initiative first.
(Rd 1 - 06:18) Hirota lands a left hand and then hits a nice straight right.
(Rd 1 - 06:11) Hirota is still moving well, but he is definitely breathing a little deeper now.
(Rd 1 - 06:03) Hirota can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then scores with a right cross that landed hard.
(Rd 1 - 05:44) A jab lands from Hirota, but Uno steps back to avoid a high right head kick.
(Rd 1 - 05:26) Hirota moves in closer, looking to open up and attack.
(Rd 1 - 05:26) Hirota can't connect with a jab, but then lands a vicious right cross!
(Rd 1 - 05:26) Uno is knocked down by that shot!
(Rd 1 - 05:21) Hirota senses victory and starts to unload with punches!
(Rd 1 - 05:21) Hirota pounds away with rights, Uno is eating some sickeningly heavy shots to the face!
(Rd 1 - 05:21) The referee is forced to jump in and stop the fight!
(Rd 1 - 05:08) Mizuto Hirota takes the win by TKO!

Official Result: Mizuto Hirota def. Caol Uno by TKO (Strikes) in 4:52 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout
Kevin Randleman (18-14) vs. Melvin Manhoef (18-5-1)

Another match is about to begin; Kevin 'The Monster' Randleman (18-14, 6-9 PRIDE) going head to head with Melvin Manhoef (18-5-1, 1-2 PRIDE).

Yuji Shimada will be the referee. Our judges at ringside are: Kawaguchi Kazuo, Miyoshi Shigematsu, and Chris Watts.

Randleman may have weighed in the same as Manhoef yesterday, but he clearly has a significant size advantage now.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The two fighters touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:48) The two combatants meet in the center and start to strike.
(Rd 1 - 09:48) Manhoef slips past a right hook and counters with a great right hook.
(Rd 1 - 09:35) Manhoef moves in closer, ready to attack.
(Rd 1 - 09:35) Manhoef can't connect with a jab, but then hits Randleman with a beautiful right uppercut!
(Rd 1 - 09:35) Randleman hits the floor, he has been knocked out!
(Rd 1 - 09:32) The winner, by knock out, is Melvin Manhoef!

Official Result: Melvin Manhoef def. Kevin Randleman by KO (Punch) in 0:28 of Round 1.

Heavyweight Bout
Andrei Arlovski (14-6) vs. Sergei Kharitonov (17-5)

Moving on, Andrei 'The Pitbull' Arlovski (14-6, 1-1 PRIDE) battles Sergei Kharitonov (17-5, 10-4 PRIDE).

Mario Yamasaki will be the referee. Our judges at ringside are: Chris Watts, Chris Lee, and Tsumemasa Kawakami.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway!
(Rd 1 - 09:51) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 09:51) Kharitonov hits a left hand.
(Rd 1 - 09:51) Arlovski scores with a massive right hook to the jaw!
(Rd 1 - 09:46) Kharitonov is knocked down!
(Rd 1 - 09:46) Arlovski starts pounding away on Kharitonov, looking to finish him off!
(Rd 1 - 09:46) Arlovski pounds away with rights, Kharitonov is eating some sickeningly heavy shots to the face!
(Rd 1 - 09:46) The referee is forced to jump in and stop the fight!
(Rd 1 - 09:29) Andrei 'The Pitbull' Arlovski takes the win by TKO!

Official Result: Andrei Arlovski def. Sergei Kharitonov by TKO (Strikes) in 0:31 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout
Nick Diaz (18-6-1 NC) vs. Josh Thomson (15-2-1 NC)

The co-main event is up next. Nick Diaz (18-6-1 NC, 3-0-1 NC PRIDE) goes head to head with Josh 'The Punk' Thomson (15-2-1 NC, 3-0 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Lightweight division.

Refereeing this bout will be Marc Goddard. The judges for this bout are: Chris Lee, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Kawaguchi Kazuo.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fight begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Neither fighter offers up the usual touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:49) Both fighters come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 09:49) Thomson hits a jab but doesn't connect with a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 09:49) Diaz hits a five punch combo that ends with a left cross.
(Rd 1 - 09:15) They clinch up and start jockeying for position.
(Rd 1 - 09:15) Thomson wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:09) Using his wrestling skills, Thomson is trying to push Diaz up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:09) Diaz doesn't let himself be driven back though.
(Rd 1 - 08:57) Thomson catches Diaz with a knee strike to the body from the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 08:39) Using his wrestling skills, Diaz is trying to push Thomson up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:39) Thomson ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:21) Diaz hits Thomson, who is pressed up against the ropes, with a nice short uppercut.
(Rd 1 - 08:03) Diaz smothers Thomson against the ropes, then uses his dirty boxing skills to his advantage.
(Rd 1 - 07:45) Diaz tries to use some dirty boxing, but Thomson uses wrestling to nullify any potential damage.
(Rd 1 - 07:27) Thomson goes to the ribs, then the head, with short punches.
(Rd 1 - 07:16) Diaz smothers Thomson against the ropes, then scores with a right to the side of the stomach.
(Rd 1 - 07:04) Diaz tries to foot stomp Thomson, but he puts himself off balance and gets turned around against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 06:37) Thomson tries to take Diaz down.
(Rd 1 - 06:37) Diaz blocks the takedown attempt and turns Thomson around so that he has his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 06:21) Diaz pins Thomson up against the ropes and hits a couple of nice left hands to the side of the head.
(Rd 1 - 06:08) Diaz hits Thomson, who is pressed up against the ropes, with a nice short uppercut.
(Rd 1 - 05:55) Diaz goes to use some dirty boxing, but Thomson is aware of the danger and uses wrestling to prevent any damage from happening.
(Rd 1 - 05:38) Thomson goes to the ribs, then the head, with short punches.
(Rd 1 - 05:27) Diaz hits Thomson, who is pressed up against the ropes, with a nice short uppercut.
(Rd 1 - 05:13) Thomson is trapped against the ropes and Diaz hits him with a short right uppercut.
(Rd 1 - 05:00) We go past the halfway point of this round.
(Rd 1 - 05:00) Diaz hits Thomson, who is pressed up against the ropes, with a nice short uppercut.
(Rd 1 - 04:41) Diaz pins Thomson up against the ropes and hits a couple of nice left hands to the side of the head.
(Rd 1 - 04:24) The referee thinks there has been too little progress, and brings the two fighters back to the center.
(Rd 1 - 04:13) It looked like we were about to see a shot from Thomson, but Diaz was more aggressive and took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 04:13) Diaz throws a punch but Thomson avoids it.
(Rd 1 - 03:53) Thomson may have been setting up to shoot, but Diaz aggressively took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 03:53) Diaz can't connect with a jab, but then hits Thomson with a straight left.
(Rd 1 - 03:34) Both fighters seem to have the same idea and come together in a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:34) Diaz seems to get the advantage.
(Rd 1 - 03:27) Diaz hits Thomson with a big knee strike to the body from the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 03:09) Diaz is trying to push Thomson so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:09) Thomson out-wrestles him though.
(Rd 1 - 02:49) Thomson is trying to muscle Diaz up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 02:49) Thomson does it, Diaz is stuck with his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 02:37) With the ropes trapping Diaz, Thomson looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 1 - 02:37) It's unsuccessful, Diaz maintained a good solid base.
(Rd 1 - 02:25) Looking for a takedown, Thomson drops down and gets hold of a leg. Diaz remains standing on the other foot, leaning against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 02:25) Thomson smartly sweeps the standing leg and gets side control!.
(Rd 1 - 02:13) Thomson throws a few right hands, but is mainly trying to catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 01:51) Diaz tries to move to guard, but Thomson doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 01:39) Thomson throws a few right hands as he takes a moment to plan ahead.
(Rd 1 - 01:21) Thomson throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move.
(Rd 1 - 01:00) Diaz tries to move to guard, but Thomson doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 00:48) In side control, Thomson throws a couple of punches designed to keep Diaz guessing.
(Rd 1 - 00:20) Thomson tries to pound on Diaz, but all the blows are comfortably dealt with.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one ends as time expires.

Round 2

(Rd 2 - 05:00) And here we go, one last round!
(Rd 2 - 04:53) Diaz uses a right jab, but Thomson evades a big left to the body.
(Rd 2 - 04:43) Thomson is able to grab Diaz.
(Rd 2 - 04:37) Thomson is looking to muscle Diaz back against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:37) Thomson can't manage it, Diaz fought it.
(Rd 2 - 04:18) Thomson defends himself from an attempted knee.
(Rd 2 - 04:05) Thomson is trying to muscle Diaz up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:05) Thomson can't do it though, and ends up being out-wrestled in the grapple.
(Rd 2 - 03:40) Using his wrestling skills, Diaz is trying to push Thomson up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 03:40) Diaz achieves it, pinning Thomson to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 03:26) Diaz smothers Thomson against the ropes, then scores with a right to the side of the stomach.
(Rd 2 - 03:15) Thomson is trapped against the ropes and Diaz hits him with a short right uppercut.
(Rd 2 - 03:02) Thomson is controlled up against the ropes and takes a few left hands via some dirty boxing.
(Rd 2 - 02:51) Thomson is controlled up against the ropes and takes a few left hands via some dirty boxing.
(Rd 2 - 02:31) Thomson is controlled up against the ropes and eats a sharp left to the ear.
(Rd 2 - 02:13) Diaz tries to foot stomp Thomson, but he puts himself off balance and gets turned around against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 01:44) Thomson tries a foot stomp, but that puts him off balance and allows Diaz to turn him so that he ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 01:24) With the fight having been stuck against the ropes for a lengthy period of time, referee Marc Goddard restarts them back in the center.
(Rd 2 - 01:24) Diaz is slowing just a little as he starts to get into the gas tank a bit.
(Rd 2 - 01:24) Thomson is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 2 - 01:14) Thomson throws a quick punch but doesn't hit.
(Rd 2 - 01:10) Diaz gets hold of Thomson.
(Rd 2 - 01:02) Diaz is trying to muscle Thomson up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 01:02) Diaz can't do it though, and ends up being out-wrestled in the grapple.
(Rd 2 - 00:47) Using his wrestling skills, Thomson is trying to push Diaz up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:47) Thomson can't do it though, and ends up being out-wrestled in the grapple.
(Rd 2 - 00:36) Diaz is trying to push Thomson so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:36) Thomson doesn't let himself be driven back though, and gains a dominant position in the grapple instead.
(Rd 2 - 00:24) Thomson tries to knee Diaz, but gets blocked.
(Rd 2 - 00:08) Diaz is trying to muscle Thomson up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:08) He does so and now has Thomson pinned to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The fight comes to an end as the time limit expires.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The judges' decisions are now being announced.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have given Diaz the win.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) So the winner, by unanimous decision, is Nick Diaz!

Official Result: Nick Diaz def. Josh Thomson by Unanimous Decision.

Heavyweight Bout
Josh Barnett (25-6) vs. Alistair Overeem (26-11)

It's time for the main event of the evening! 'The Warmaster' Josh Barnett (25-6, 7-5 PRIDE) takes on Alistair 'The Demolition Man' Overeem (26-11, 9-8 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Heavyweight division.

The referee is Marc Goddard. Our ringside judges are: Kawaguchi Kazuo, Miyoshi Shigematsu, and Chris Watts.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Overeem ignores the offer of a touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:49) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 09:49) Overeem doesn't connect with a right roundhouse kick to the body.
(Rd 1 - 09:49) Barnett is off-target with a jab and also doesn't connect with a low kick.
(Rd 1 - 09:24) Overeem hits a left jab and then catches Barnett with a right roundhouse kick to the body.
(Rd 1 - 09:08) Barnett comes in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:08) Barnett couldn't complete the single leg, but does end up standing holding a leg while Overeem hops in place on the other.
(Rd 1 - 09:08) Barnett uses the position to drive Overeem up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:48) Barnett uses a vicious foot stomp.
(Rd 1 - 08:36) Barnett is looking to get Overeem in a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 08:36) Barnett manages it and now controls Overeem by the back of the head.
(Rd 1 - 08:21) From the Muay Thai clinch, Overeem eats a knee to the side of the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 08:04) Overeem tries to wrestle free of the Muay Thai clinch, but cannot.
(Rd 1 - 07:40) Overeem partially blocks a knee strike, enough to allow him to wrestle free of the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 06:49) Overeem steps forward and a striking exchange begins.
(Rd 1 - 06:49) Barnett hits a jab in the exchange.
(Rd 1 - 06:49) Overeem lands two jabs, but misses with a vicious right hand.
(Rd 1 - 06:26) Overeem throws a one-two, but Barnett was equal to it.
(Rd 1 - 06:01) Barnett shoots in for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 06:01) Barnett couldn't complete the single leg, but does end up standing holding a leg while Overeem hops in place on the other.
(Rd 1 - 06:01) Barnett drives Overeem up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 05:40) Barnett smothers Overeem against the ropes, then uses his dirty boxing skills to his advantage.
(Rd 1 - 05:27) Barnett pins Overeem up against the ropes and hits a couple of nice right hands to the side of the head.
(Rd 1 - 05:16) Barnett tries to get Overeem into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:16) Overeem doesn't let himself get caught in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 04:58) We pass the halfway mark of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:58) Barnett is looking to get Overeem in a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 04:58) Overeem fights off the clinch and manages to work enough space that he can slip out and away, back to the center.
(Rd 1 - 04:46) Overeem is still moving well, but he is definitely breathing a little deeper now.
(Rd 1 - 04:39) Barnett shoots in for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 04:39) He has the takedown! It's a single leg, and Overeem has to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 04:32) Barnett fires off a few punches, but they aren't thrown with any great force.
(Rd 1 - 04:15) Barnett punches down at Overeem, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 03:54) Overeem tries to catch Barnett with a punch, but it is not on target.
(Rd 1 - 03:34) Barnett begins trying to pass the guard.
(Rd 1 - 03:34) He manages to pass, but only to half guard.
(Rd 1 - 03:09) Barnett pounds away on Overeem but doesn't do much damage.
(Rd 1 - 02:54) Overeem works some separation, then tries to quickly scramble his way into a better position.
(Rd 1 - 02:54) It's a bad choice though, as Barnett seizes the opportunity to leap forward and secure side control.
(Rd 1 - 02:37) Overeem takes a knee strike to the ribs from under side control.
(Rd 1 - 02:23) Barnett punches down at Overeem, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 01:55) Overeem tries to pull guard on Barnett but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 01:38) Barnett keeps Overeem guessing with a few quick strikes.
(Rd 1 - 01:09) Overeem tries to move to guard, but Barnett doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 00:56) We're into the final minute of the round.
(Rd 1 - 00:56) Barnett pounds away on Overeem, who is getting destroyed by repeated heavy shots to the head!
(Rd 1 - 00:56) Overeem goes limp for a second, referee Marc Goddard leaps in to stop the fight!
(Rd 1 - 00:39) 'The Warmaster' Josh Barnett takes the win by knock out!

Official Result: Josh Barnett def. Alistair Overeem by KO (Punch) in 9:21 of Round 1.

<img src=https://cdn-5a0e39aaf911ca1e30bcc563.closte.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/JoshBarnett600x400.jpg>

PRIDE 43: Forever
Date: May 31, 2008
Venue: Saitama Super Arena
Local: Saitama, Japan
Attendance: 13,611
Gate: $ 3,975,092
Critical Rating: 62%
Commercial Rating: 80%

Main Card

Heavyweight Bout: Josh Barnett def. Alistair Overeem by KO (Punch) in 9:21 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout: Nick Diaz def. Josh Thomson by Unanimous Decision.

Heavyweight Bout: Andrei Arlovski def. Sergei Kharitonov by TKO (Strikes) in 0:31 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout: Melvin Manhoef def. Kevin Randleman by KO (Punch) in 0:28 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout: Mizuto Hirota def. Caol Uno by TKO (Strikes) in 4:52 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout: Chael Sonnen def. Sanae Kikuta by Split Decision.

Preliminary Card

Heavyweight Bout: Peter Graham def. Hong Man Choi by TKO (Strikes) in 8:17 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout: Carlos Newton def. Izuru Takeuchi by Split Decision.

Lightweight Bout: Gesias Cavalcante def. Satoru Kitaoka by Unanimous Decision.

Welterweight Bout: Hector Lombard def. Krysztof Kulak by TKO (Strikes) in 4:20 of Round 1.

Featherweight Bout: Bibiano Fernandes def. Kazuyuki Miyata by Submission (Kimura) in 6:01 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout: Jason High def. Nobutatsu Suzuki by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 1:21 of Round 1.

Bonus

KO of the Night: Josh Barnett

Submission of the Night: Jason High

Fight of the Night: Josh Barnett vs. Alistair Overeem

POST FIGHT

<img src=https://i.imgur.com/TwXQehx.png>

- Sakakibara confirmed that Josh Barnett will be Fedor Emelianenko's next opponent.

- Barnett said he was happy to beat Overeem and that he will return to training next week focused on Fedor.

- Diaz said he was pleased to beat Thomson, and that he awaits the chance for the title dispute.

- Arlovski said he proved to everyone that the defeat to Fedor, did not shake him and thanked Kharitonov for the fight.

PREDICTIONS

CageRage (8-4)

McDojoDelux (9-3)

vladjarca (8-4)

rodrigoviolim · February 14, 2021

PRIDE 44 ANNOUNCED

by Sean Smith

With a few days left for PRIDE 44 the complete card was released to the press. Once again Kazushi Sakuraba leads the event against American Chris Leben and former Lightweight champion Takanori Gomi faces current WEC lightweight champion Donald Cerrone in the co-main event.

Sakuraba returns after being defeated by Paul Daley in the unanimous decision, in the first round of the GP Welterweight. Meanwhile, Leben, made his first fight under the PRIDE banner against Sanae Kikuta and got a great knockout that ended the sequence of three consecutive defeats.

Gomi does not come in a good moment and arrives for this fight after two defeats, to Yamamoto in the semi-final of the GP Lightweight, by TKO and in the rematch against Nick Diaz in PRIDE 42. Cerrone is currently WEC champion and debuted in PRIDE with a big knockout over Katsuya Inoue and keeps his undefeated 11-0 record.

PRIDE 44 will take place at Yokohama Arena in Yokohama, Japan. It will broadcast by ESPN Africa, Eurosport Russia, SkySports 2, NHK, Polsat Sport, Fox Sports Asia, CBS Sports Network, ESPN Latin America and Fox Sports Australia. The card will also cover Blurcat.com's play by play with "The Voice" Matt Edwards and Daniel Tuxford.

Check out the full card:

PRIDE 44: Into the Fire

Date: June 8, 2008

Venue: Yokohama Arena

Local: Yokohama, Japan

MORE NEWS

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Hunt responds to Goodridge

Japan becomes regulated

PRIDE Bushido 18: Featherweight GP 2008 - Everyone clean

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Cavalcante wins title

Dominick Cruz goes to hospital

UFC 76: Jackson vs. Machida announced

Valimack defends title

Blachowicz wins title

MMA Around the World - Results

PRIDE 43: Forever

M-1: Thiago vs. Lennox

WEC 33: Wineland vs. Okazaki

Shooto: Matsune vs. Katsumura

MFC 17: Valimaki vs. Evans

KSW 12: Martela vs. Blachowicz

Calendar - Upcoming Events

Japanese Large Local Show Jun 2008

DREAM 4: Guel vs. Branch

PRIDE 44: Into the Fire

Japanese Small Local Show Jun 2008

KOTC: Karakhanyan vs. Maxwell

Pancrase: Cooper vs. Carl

Canadian Small Local Show Jun 2008

Strikeforce: Mousasi vs. Kennedy

American Small Local Show Jun 2008

British Small Local Show Jun 2008

PRIDE Critical Countdown 2008

rodrigoviolim · February 14, 2021

Pound For Pound

Super Heavyweight

Heavyweight

Light Heavyweight

Middleweight

Welterweight

Lightweight

Featherweight

Bantamweight

Flyweight

This division does not have eligible 25 fighters

Women´s Pound For Pound

Women´s Featherweight>

This division does not have eligible 25 fighters

Women´s Bantamweight

This division does not have eligible 25 fighters

Women´s Flyweight

This division does not have eligible 25 fighters

Women´s Strawweight

This division does not have eligible 25 fighters

rodrigoviolim · February 14, 2021

PRIDE 44: INTO THE FIRE WEIGH-IN RESULTS: ALL FIGHTERS MAKE WEIGHT

by Sean Smith

The PRIDE Fighting Championships returns to Yokohama with an event that saw every fighter make weight.

Headlining PRIDE 44 is a welterweight bout between decorated veteran Kazushi Sakuraba and Chris Leben. While Sakuraba (23-11-1- 2 NC) has never tasted gold inside the ring, the 38-year-old is the fighter with the most fights in the history of PRIDE.

His opponent, Leben (17-5) has found sizable success outside of the UFC with PRIDE debut against Sanae Kikuta. “The Crippler” recently bounced back from three consecutive loses.

PRIDE 44: Into the Fire will take place at Yokohama Arena in Yokohama, Japan. It will broadcast by ESPN Africa, Eurosport Russia, SkySports 2, NHK, Polsat Sport, Fox Sports Asia, CBS Sports Network, ESPN Latin America and Fox Sports Australia. The card will also cover Blurcat.com's play by play with "The Voice" Matt Edwards and Daniel Tuxford.

Check out the Results:

PRIDE 44: Into the Fire

Date: June 8, 2008

Venue: Yokohama Arena

Local: Yokohama, Japan

Main Card

Welterweight Bout: Kazushi Sakuraba (185 lbs) vs. Chris Leben (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Takanori Gomi (165 lbs) vs. Donald Cerrone (165 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Roy Nelson (265 lbs) vs. Aleksander Emelianenko (255 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Kazuo Misaki (185 lbs) vs. Delson Heleno (185 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Yoshihiro Nakao (220 lbs) vs. Bob Sapp (265 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Hayato Sakurai (165 lbs) vs. Pat Healy (165 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Heavyweight Bout: Eric Esch (265 lbs) vs. Kimbo Slice (225 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Hatsu Hioki (145 lbs) vs. Jose Aldo (145 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Vitor Ribeiro (165 lbs) vs. Eiji Mitsuoka (146 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Keita Nakamura (170 lbs) vs. Mamed Khalidov (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Vladimit Matyushenko (205 lbs) vs. Stephan Bonnar (205 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Akitoshi Tamura (145 lbs) vs. Yoshiro Maeda (145 lbs)

MAKE YOUR PREDICTIONS FOR THIS CARD

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MMA Around the World - Results

Japanese Large Local Show Jun 2008

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Calendar - Upcoming Events

PRIDE 44: Into the Fire

Japanese Small Local Show Jun 2008

KOTC: Karakhanyan vs. Maxwell

Pancrase: Cooper vs. Carl

Canadian Small Local Show Jun 2008

Strikeforce: Mousasi vs. Kennedy

American Small Local Show Jun 2008

British Small Local Show Jun 2008

PRIDE Critical Countdown 2008

CageRage · February 14, 2021

PRIDE 44: Into the Fire

Date: June 8, 2008

Venue: Yokohama Arena

Local: Yokohama, Japan

Main Card

Welterweight Bout: Kazushi Sakuraba (185 lbs) vs. Chris Leben (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Takanori Gomi (165 lbs) vs. Donald Cerrone (165 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Roy Nelson (265 lbs) vs. Aleksander Emelianenko (255 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Kazuo Misaki (185 lbs) vs. Delson Heleno (185 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Yoshihiro Nakao (220 lbs) vs. Bob Sapp (265 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Hayato Sakurai (165 lbs) vs. Pat Healy (165 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Heavyweight Bout: Eric Esch (265 lbs) vs. Kimbo Slice (225 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Hatsu Hioki (145 lbs) vs. Jose Aldo (145 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Vitor Ribeiro (165 lbs) vs. Eiji Mitsuoka (146 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Keita Nakamura (170 lbs) vs. Mamed Khalidov (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Vladimit Matyushenko (205 lbs) vs. Stephan Bonnar (205 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Akitoshi Tamura (145 lbs) vs. Yoshiro Maeda (145 lbs)

vladjarca · February 15, 2021

Main Card

Welterweight Bout: Kazushi Sakuraba (185 lbs) vs. Chris Leben (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Takanori Gomi (165 lbs) vs. Donald Cerrone (165 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Roy Nelson (265 lbs) vs. Aleksander Emelianenko (255 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Kazuo Misaki (185 lbs) vs. Delson Heleno (185 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Yoshihiro Nakao (220 lbs) vs. Bob Sapp (265 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Hayato Sakurai (165 lbs) vs. Pat Healy (165 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Heavyweight Bout: Eric Esch (265 lbs) vs. Kimbo Slice (225 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Hatsu Hioki (145 lbs) vs. Jose Aldo (145 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Vitor Ribeiro (165 lbs) vs. Eiji Mitsuoka (146 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Keita Nakamura (170 lbs) vs. Mamed Khalidov (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Vladimit Matyushenko (205 lbs) vs. Stephan Bonnar (205 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Akitoshi Tamura (145 lbs) vs. Yoshiro Maeda (145 lbs)

rodrigoviolim · February 15, 2021

Matt Edwards (ME): Hi, I'm Matt Edwards! Live from Yokohama Arena. Kazushi Sakuraba returns, after being eliminated in the first round of GP Welterweight, against American Chris Leben. It will be a duel of styles, a grappler against a striker. Fans will also be able to follow another Japanese MMA legend, Takanori Gomi, facing the rising star, undefeated Donald 'Cowboy' Cerrone, who is champion of the American organization WEC.

With me tonight my broadcast partner Daniel Tuxford.

Good night Daniel!

Daniel Tuxford (DT): Good night Matt and MMA fans! Tonight we will have great matches as always PRIDE brings fans. Sakuraba against Leben is a very similar fight that Sakuraba had with Wanderlei Silva. Leben is aggressive and Sakuraba will have to be careful. Gomi vs. Cerrone will be an incredible fight, I'm sure. Gomi does not come a good time, but, it is always dangerous and the American is undefeated and will certainly be a great test for him.

ME: Come on! Here everything is ready for the opening of the event. And right after that we are already going to the first fight MMA fans, who will accompany us tonight on blurcat.com. Now it's up to her, the "PRIDE voice" Lenne Hardt!

Lenne Hardt: PRIDE 44: INTO THE FIRE Liveeeee from Yokohama Areeeenaaaa! Now here comes the full card!

The first match!!! From Japan, Yoshiro Maeda! From Japan, Akitoshi Tamura!!

Second match; From USA, Stephaaan Bonnarrr!!! From Belarus, Vladimir Matyushenkoooo!!

Third Match; From Poland, Mamed Khalidov! From Japaaan, Keitaaaaa Nakamuraaaa!!!

Fourth match; From Japaaan, Eijiiii Mitsuokaaa! From Braziiiil, Vitor 'Shaoliiiiin' Ribeiroooooo!!!

Fifth match; Frommm Brazil, Jose Aldo!!! Frrrrrom Japaaan!!! Hatsuuuuu Hiokiiiii!!!

Sixth match; Frooom USA, Kimboooo Sliceeeee!! Froooooommm USAAAA, Butteeeeeeerbeeeeaaaannn!!

Seventh match; Froooom USA, Pat Healyyy!!!! Frooom Japaaaan, Hayaaatoo Sakuraiiii!!!

Eighth match; Frooom USA, Booob Saaaaaappp!! Froooooommm Jaaaapaaan, 'Kissssss' Nakaaaaaao!!

Ninth match; Froooooommm Brazil, Deeeelsoon Helenooo!! Frooom Japaaaan, Kazuoooo Misakiiiiiiiiiiiiii!!!

Tenth match; Froooooommm USAAAAAAA, Rooooy Nelsoooon!! Frooom Russiaaaa, Aleksandeeeeer Emeeelianenkoooo!!!

Eleventh match; Froooooommm USAAA, Donald Cerrroooneee!!! Frooom Japaaan, Takaaaanooriii Gomiiii!!!

Final match: Frooooom USA, Chriiiiissss Leeeebeeeennnn!!!! Frooooooooommmm Jaaaapaaan, Kazushiiiiii Saaaakuuuraaaabaaaa!!!!

PRIDE 44: INTO THE FIRE LIVE IN YOKOHAMA ARENA IS NOOOOOOOW!!!!!!

Preliminary Card

Featherweight Bout

Akitoshi Tamura (13-6-2) vs. Yoshiro Maeda (22-6-3)

The first of the prelim fights is 'Ironman' Akitoshi Tamura (13-6-2, 1-1 PRIDE) fighting Yoshiro Maeda (22-6-3, 1-1 PRIDE).

The referee is Marc Goddard. The judges are: Tony Weeks, Kanagi Fujimaro, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

Tamura looks significantly bigger than Maeda as they prepare to fight, even though they weighed in exactly the same yesterday.

Tamura, being in front of a home crowd, gets a loud cheer as he enters.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 09:49) Up close, they start wrestling.
(Rd 1 - 09:49) Maeda wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:42) Maeda tries to get Tamura into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:42) He has it hooked, Tamura needs to find a way out quickly.
(Rd 1 - 09:27) Maeda keeps control of the clinch despite missing a knee strike.
(Rd 1 - 09:02) Using the clinch, Maeda hits a vicious knee to the ribs of Tamura.
(Rd 1 - 08:42) Maeda tries a knee strike but doesn't connect, but Tamura isn't able to get free of the clinch either.
(Rd 1 - 08:21) Using the clinch, Maeda blasts Tamura with a sternum-crunching knee to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 08:03) Maeda tries a knee strike, but Tamura blocks it and wrestles his way out of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 07:31) Maeda confidently moves in closer, looking to throw some strikes.
(Rd 1 - 07:31) Tamura hits a jab, but it had no power at all behind it.
(Rd 1 - 07:31) Maeda throws a quick punch but doesn't hit.
(Rd 1 - 07:14) Both fighters want to get in close, and they get into a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 07:14) Maeda is the aggressor in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 07:08) Maeda is aiming to get Tamura into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 07:08) Maeda manages it and now controls Tamura by the back of the head.
(Rd 1 - 06:56) Using the Muay Thai clinch, Maeda blasts Tamura with a big knee to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 06:39) Tamura blocks a knee strike, but cannot get free of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:59) Using the clinch, Maeda hits a vicious knee to the ribs of Tamura.
(Rd 1 - 05:47) Maeda misses a knee strike, but maintains his control of the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:14) Using the clinch, Maeda blasts Tamura with a sternum-crunching knee to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 04:54) Maeda tries a knee strike but doesn't connect, but Tamura isn't able to get free of the clinch either.
(Rd 1 - 04:20) Tamura is released from the clinch, Maeda looks to change tactics.
(Rd 1 - 04:06) Maeda gets close enough to clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:47) Maeda tries to wrestle Tamura backward and up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:47) Maeda doesn't manage it though, Tamura defended it well.
(Rd 1 - 03:31) Maeda tries to get Tamura into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:31) He gets it, and now has Tamura in trouble.
(Rd 1 - 03:17) Using the clinch, Maeda blasts Tamura with a sternum-crunching knee to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 03:06) Maeda tries a knee strike but doesn't connect, but Tamura isn't able to get free of the clinch either.
(Rd 1 - 02:32) Maeda tries a knee strike, but Tamura blocks it and wrestles his way out of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 01:50) Maeda throws a quick punch but doesn't land.
(Rd 1 - 01:45) Seizing the opportunity, Tamura clinches.
(Rd 1 - 01:35) Using his wrestling skills, Tamura is trying to push Maeda up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:35) Maeda doesn't let himself be driven back though.
(Rd 1 - 01:21) Maeda is trying to muscle Tamura up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:21) Maeda can't do it though, and Tamura gets a more dominant position in the grapple instead.
(Rd 1 - 01:08) Tamura is trying to push Maeda so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:08) He does so and now has Maeda pinned to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 00:55) The end of the round is coming quick, there's under a minute left.
(Rd 1 - 00:55) Maeda is trapped up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 00:55) They engage in a gruelling close-up battle of short strikes for thirty seconds or more.
(Rd 1 - 00:21) Maeda is pressed up against the ropes and held there.
(Rd 1 - 00:21) Nothing really happens for the remainder of the round, they remain in a close grapple exchanging occasional short punches.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) The time is up, and that's the end of round one.

Hopefully the next round will produce a little more in the way of action.

Sitting on his stool, Tamura has his corner try to ice the huge purple bruise that adorns his rib area.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) It's the final round and we are back underway!
(Rd 2 - 04:47) There's a takedown attempt from Maeda.
(Rd 2 - 04:47) He gets a big takedown and he manages to get side control as a result.
(Rd 2 - 04:29) Maeda tries to ensnare Tamura in a kimura.
(Rd 2 - 04:29) Tamura doesn't allow the kimura to be applied.
(Rd 2 - 04:05) Tamura tries to pull guard on Maeda but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 2 - 03:54) Maeda is trying to move from side control to mount.
(Rd 2 - 03:54) He does it, and has the mount on Tamura.
(Rd 2 - 03:15) Maeda pounds away, Tamura is barely able to offer any defence at all!
(Rd 2 - 03:15) Referee Marc Goddard has no option but to leap in and stop the fight!
(Rd 2 - 03:00) The winner, by TKO, is Yoshiro Maeda!

Official Result: Yoshiro Maeda def. Akitoshi Tamura by TKO (Strikes) in 2:00 of Round 2.

Middleweight Bout
Vladimir Matyushenko (19-5) vs. Stephan Bonnar (11-5)

Another match is about to begin; Vladimir 'The Janitor' Matyushenko (19-5, 2-2 PRIDE) taking on 'The American Psycho' Stephan Bonnar (11-5, 1-0 PRIDE).

Our referee is John McCarthy. Our judges at ringside are: Tony Weeks, Kanagi Fujimaro, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fight begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:47) Bonnar can't hit a set-up left jab, but then hits Matyushenko with a beauty of a straight right.
(Rd 1 - 09:18) Bonnar hits a left jab and then catches Matyushenko with a right roundhouse kick to the body.
(Rd 1 - 08:55) Matyushenko chooses to shoot in on Bonnar.
(Rd 1 - 08:55) Matyushenko gets hold of a leg but Bonnar remains standing, hopping on the other foot.
(Rd 1 - 08:55) Matyushenko drives Bonnar up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:33) With the ropes trapping Bonnar, Matyushenko looks for a trip takedown.
(Rd 1 - 08:33) Bonnar has no answer to a slick trip, he is left down under side control!
(Rd 1 - 08:21) Matyushenko pounds away, but Bonnar isn't troubled by the strikes.
(Rd 1 - 08:05) Bonnar tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 07:45) Matyushenko fires off a few punches, but they aren't thrown with any great force.
(Rd 1 - 07:23) Bonnar tries to pull guard on Matyushenko but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 07:05) Matyushenko throws a few right hands as he takes a moment to plan ahead.
(Rd 1 - 06:38) Matyushenko tries to pound on Bonnar, but none of the blows land with any degree of power.
(Rd 1 - 06:27) Bonnar tries to move to guard, but Matyushenko doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 06:16) Matyushenko fires off some rights, but Bonnar isn't troubled by them.
(Rd 1 - 06:00) Bonnar tries to move to guard, but Matyushenko doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 05:40) Matyushenko pounds away with rights but fails to land any significant blows.
(Rd 1 - 05:23) Matyushenko blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:07) With no progress being made, referee John McCarthy brings the fighters back to their feet.
(Rd 1 - 05:01) There's a takedown attempt from Matyushenko.
(Rd 1 - 05:01) The takedown is completed, Bonnar is on his back and pulls guard.
(Rd 1 - 04:45) For the moment Matyushenko is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 04:27) Bonnar grabs Matyushenko and draws him in close, smothering him.
(Rd 1 - 03:47) Matyushenko throws a few strikes, but they are without venom.
(Rd 1 - 03:28) Matyushenko fires away with punches, but Bonnar doesn't take any undue damage.
(Rd 1 - 03:17) Bonnar gets the double underhooks in and pulls Matyushenko close, controlling him well.
(Rd 1 - 02:56) Matyushenko throws a few strikes, but is clearly slowing things down so that he can think.
(Rd 1 - 02:29) Bonnar pulls Matyushenko close and scores with a couple of short punches to the side of his head.
(Rd 1 - 02:13) Matyushenko punches down at Bonnar, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 01:43) Matyushenko punches down at Bonnar, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 01:16) With no progress being made, the referee brings the fighters back to their feet.
(Rd 1 - 01:01) Matyushenko chooses to shoot in on Bonnar.
(Rd 1 - 01:01) Bonnar almost stops the takedown but is left hopping on one leg while Matyushenko holds the other.
(Rd 1 - 01:01) Matyushenko can't get Bonnar down and so settles for pushing him up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 00:44) With the ropes trapping Bonnar, Matyushenko looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 1 - 00:44) The takedown is completed, Bonnar is on his back and pulls half guard.
(Rd 1 - 00:27) Matyushenko unloads with some right hands, but Bonnar deals with them comfortably.
(Rd 1 - 00:12) Matyushenko blocks Bonnar as he tries a transition to full guard.
(Rd 1 - 00:01) Matyushenko fires off some rights, but Bonnar isn't troubled by them.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one ends as time expires.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell and the final round begins!
(Rd 2 - 04:50) Bonnar can't hit a set-up left jab, but then catches Matyushenko with a right roundhouse kick to the body.
(Rd 2 - 04:24) Matyushenko hits two quick jabs, but they had no power at all behind them.
(Rd 2 - 04:24) A jab lands from Bonnar, but his big right hand follow-up misses.
(Rd 2 - 04:04) Bonnar moves in on Matyushenko, preparing to throw.
(Rd 2 - 04:04) Matyushenko lands a weak, tentative jab.
(Rd 2 - 04:04) Bonnar can't connect with a jab, but then hits a nice straight right.
(Rd 2 - 03:45) Bonnar closes the distance, obviously looking to strike.
(Rd 2 - 03:45) Bonnar can't hit a set-up left jab, but then hits Matyushenko with a straight right.
(Rd 2 - 03:23) Bonnar throws a quick punch but doesn't hit.
(Rd 2 - 03:05) Matyushenko chooses to shoot in on Bonnar.
(Rd 2 - 03:05) Bonnar almost got away but not quite; he is left hopping while Matyushenko has hold of one leg.
(Rd 2 - 03:05) Matyushenko uses the position to drive Bonnar up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 02:51) With the ropes trapping Bonnar, Matyushenko looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 2 - 02:51) The takedown is successful, Bonnar pulls half guard.
(Rd 2 - 02:33) Looking to catch his breath, Matyushenko is content to just throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 2 - 02:11) Bonnar tries to transition to full guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 2 - 01:53) Matyushenko keeps Bonnar guessing with a few quick strikes.
(Rd 2 - 01:31) Matyushenko blocks an attempted move from half guard to full guard.
(Rd 2 - 01:15) Matyushenko fires away with rights, but does little in the way of actual damage.
(Rd 2 - 00:59) Bonnar tries to move from half guard to full guard, but Matyushenko doesn't allow it.
(Rd 2 - 00:46) Matyushenko throws a few strikes, but they are without venom.
(Rd 2 - 00:16) Matyushenko fires away with punches, but Bonnar doesn't take any undue damage.
(Rd 2 - 00:04) Bonnar tries to move from half guard to full guard, but Matyushenko doesn't allow it.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The fight comes to an end as the time limit expires.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The judges' decisions are now being announced.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have Matyushenko down as the winner.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The winner, by unanimous decision, is Vladimir 'The Janitor' Matyushenko!

Official Result: Vladimir Matyushenko def. Stephan Bonnar by Unanimous Decision.

Welterweight Bout
Keita Nakamura (16-4-2) vs. Mamed Khalidov (12-4)

Moving on to the next match, in which Keita 'K-Taro' Nakamura (16-4-2, 1-1 PRIDE) takes on Mamed Khalidov (12-4, 0-0 PRIDE).

Our referee is John McCarthy. Our judges are: Takenaka Suzu, Tony Weeks, and Kanagi Fujimaro.

The size difference is clear for all to see; Khalidov looks a good 20lbs heavier than his opponent. That's a big advantage.

Nakamura, being in front of a home crowd, gets a loud cheer as he enters.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fight begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:50) Khalidov gets in close and clinches with Nakamura.
(Rd 1 - 09:36) Khalidov is trying to muscle Nakamura up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:36) Khalidov does it, Nakamura is stuck with his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:24) Dropping down, Khalidov secures a leg and starts looking for a takedown. Nakamura is left hopping on his other leg, trying to balance.
(Rd 1 - 09:24) Nakamura keeps calm and manages to pull Khalidov back into a clinch, preventing the takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:08) Khalidov, looking for a takedown, manages to secure a leg, leaving Nakamura hopping on one foot.
(Rd 1 - 09:08) Nakamura keeps calm and manages to pull Khalidov back into a clinch, preventing the takedown.
(Rd 1 - 08:53) With Nakamura stuck against the ropes, Khalidov tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs.
(Rd 1 - 08:53) Khalidov doesn't get the takedown, Nakamura instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 08:27) With the ropes trapping Khalidov, Nakamura looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 1 - 08:27) Khalidov blocks the takedown attempt and turns Nakamura around so that he has his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:13) Khalidov attempts a leg-sweep trip to put Nakamura on the ground.
(Rd 1 - 08:13) Nakamura blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base.
(Rd 1 - 08:02) Khalidov drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down.
(Rd 1 - 08:02) It's unsuccessful, Nakamura maintained a good solid base.
(Rd 1 - 07:50) Khalidov looks for a takedown by grabbing both his opponent's legs and trying to trip him to the mat.
(Rd 1 - 07:50) Nakamura blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base.
(Rd 1 - 07:33) Khalidov tries to take Nakamura down.
(Rd 1 - 07:33) Nakamura stops the takedown attempt, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple and put Khalidov against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 07:20) Nakamura uses a hard foot stomp.
(Rd 1 - 07:09) Khalidov takes a sharp stomp to the foot.
(Rd 1 - 07:01) Khalidov takes a hard foot stomp.
(Rd 1 - 06:49) Khalidov throws a few short punches to the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 06:37) Nakamura stomps down on his opponent's foot.
(Rd 1 - 06:26) Khalidov is trapped against the ropes and takes a sharp stomp to the foot.
(Rd 1 - 06:11) Khalidov waits for Nakamura to lift a leg to attempt a foot stomp, then turns him around so that he now has his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 05:54) Although pressed against the ropes, Nakamura still hits a few small punches to the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 05:41) With the fight having been stuck against the ropes for a lengthy period of time, referee John McCarthy restarts them back in the center.
(Rd 1 - 05:41) Taking a few gulps of breath, Khalidov is giving the first hint that he is starting to tire a touch.
(Rd 1 - 05:33) Nakamura can't hit a set-up left jab, but then hits Khalidov with a straight right.
(Rd 1 - 05:20) A one-two from Nakamura fails to land.
(Rd 1 - 05:07) Khalidov takes the chance and grabs Nakamura into a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:01) Khalidov hits Nakamura with a big knee strike to the body from the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 04:45) Khalidov is trying to muscle Nakamura up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:45) Khalidov achieves it, pinning Nakamura to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:27) Looking for a takedown, Khalidov drops down and gets hold of a leg. Nakamura remains standing on the other foot, leaning against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:27) Nakamura blocks the takedown by acting swiftly and pulling Khalidov back into a tight clinch against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:16) Khalidov goes low and comes up holding a single leg, leaving Nakamura hopping and in danger of getting taken down.
(Rd 1 - 04:16) The takedown isn't forthcoming, Nakamura defended it well by grabbing Khalidov and dragging him back into a tight clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:57) Breathing very hard, Khalidov is looking ragged.
(Rd 1 - 03:57) With the ropes trapping Nakamura, Khalidov looks for a trip takedown by sweeping a leg.
(Rd 1 - 03:57) Khalidov doesn't get the trip, Nakamura instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 03:39) Nakamura tries to take Khalidov down.
(Rd 1 - 03:39) He has the takedown! Khalidov pulls guard.
(Rd 1 - 03:20) Nakamura attempts to pass guard and gain a better position.
(Rd 1 - 03:20) Nakamura struggles but cannot find a way past and remains stuck in guard.
(Rd 1 - 02:25) Nakamura deflects a couple of punches that Khalidov threw from below.
(Rd 1 - 02:07) In guard, Nakamura is content just to throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 01:44) Nakamura begins trying to pass the guard.
(Rd 1 - 01:44) Khalidov finds his opponent too skilled, and Nakamura passes guard into side control.
(Rd 1 - 01:06) Nakamura is trying to move from side control to mount.
(Rd 1 - 01:06) Nakamura shows his ground skills and slips to mount.
(Rd 1 - 00:30) Nakamura pounds away with right hands and Khalidov is having trouble doing anything about it!
(Rd 1 - 00:30) With Khalidov taking a beating, referee John McCarthy has to stop the fight!
(Rd 1 - 00:11) By TKO, the winner is Keita Nakamura!

Official Result: Keita Nakamura def. Mamed Khalidov by TKO (Strikes) in 9:49 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout
Vitor Ribeiro (20-2) vs. Eiji Mitsuoka (11-5-2)

Moving on to the next match, in which Vitor 'Shaolin' Ribeiro (20-2, 2-1) faces Eiji Mitsuoka (11-5-2, 3-2-1 PRIDE).

John McCarthy will be the referee. Our ringside judges are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Takenaka Suzu, and Tony Weeks.

There's a roar from the crowd as Mitsuoka enters, he is from around here.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fight begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:47) Shaolin shoots in for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:47) The takedown is successful, it's a single leg that leaves Mitsuoka pulling guard.
(Rd 1 - 09:30) Shaolin attempts to pass guard.
(Rd 1 - 09:30) He manages to pass, but only to half guard.
(Rd 1 - 08:30) Shaolin begins trying to get his leg free of the half guard.
(Rd 1 - 08:30) He gets past half guard, gaining side control.
(Rd 1 - 07:50) Shaolin throws some small strikes, but is clearly just taking a moment to try and catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 07:21) Shaolin looks to get a mount.
(Rd 1 - 07:21) Mitsuoka tries to sweep from the mount attempt but gets rolled and gives up his back.
(Rd 1 - 06:41) Mitsuoka is in huge trouble now, as Shaolin successfully gets both hooks in.
(Rd 1 - 06:20) Shaolin pounds away, but Mitsuoka isn't troubled by the strikes.
(Rd 1 - 05:51) With both hooks in, Shaolin tries to flatten Mitsuoka out for the rear naked choke.
(Rd 1 - 05:51) The rear naked choke is fully applied, Shaolin has Mitsuoka flattened out completely, there is no option but to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 05:24) The winner, by submission; Vitor Ribeiro!

Official Result: Vitor Ribeiro def. Eiji Mitsuoka by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 4:36 of Round 1.

Featherweight Bout
Hatsu Hioki (14-4-1) vs. Jose Aldo (12-1)

Moving on to the next match, in which Hatsu Hioki (14-4-1, 2-2 PRIDE) takes on Jose Aldo (12-1, 0-0 PRIDE).

The referee is John McCarthy. Our ringside judges are: Tony Weeks, Kanagi Fujimaro, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

Hioki gets a good reaction from the fans as he enters the arena, he's fighting in front of a home crowd tonight.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) They touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:52) Aldo can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then catches Hioki with a right hook.
(Rd 1 - 09:37) Aldo fails to find a home for his jab, but then catches Hioki with a low kick to the front leg.
(Rd 1 - 09:19) Hioki hits a jab, but it had no power at all behind it.
(Rd 1 - 09:19) Aldo lands a left hand and then catches Hioki with a low kick to the front leg.
(Rd 1 - 09:03) Aldo can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then lands a roundhouse kick to the body.
(Rd 1 - 08:41) Aldo connects with a jab, but misses with a vicious right hand.
(Rd 1 - 08:19) A jab hits home from Aldo and then he scores with a right cross that landed hard.
(Rd 1 - 08:01) Circling warily, Hioki is looking for a chance to get close enough to grapple.
(Rd 1 - 08:01) A jab hits home from Aldo and then he catches Hioki with a hard low kick to the front leg.
(Rd 1 - 07:50) Aldo moves in on Hioki, preparing to throw.
(Rd 1 - 07:50) Aldo fails to find a home for his jab, but then catches Hioki with a low kick to the front leg.
(Rd 1 - 07:35) A quick flurry of punches from Aldo sees three of four hit home but Hioki avoids a big right.
(Rd 1 - 07:15) Hioki limps pretty heavily as he circles around.
(Rd 1 - 07:04) A jab hits home from Aldo and then he catches Hioki with a hard low kick to the front leg.
(Rd 1 - 06:57) Hioki limps around, his leg now virtually useless thanks to all the damage it has taken.
(Rd 1 - 06:52) Aldo lands a left hand and then scores with a leg kick.
(Rd 1 - 06:36) Aldo steps in and looks to unleash.
(Rd 1 - 06:36) Aldo can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then lands a low kick to the legs.
(Rd 1 - 06:21) Aldo lands a left hand and then catches Hioki with a low kick to the front leg.
(Rd 1 - 06:12) Limping heavily, Hioki is struggling to move around.
(Rd 1 - 06:02) Aldo throws a quick punch but doesn't land.
(Rd 1 - 05:58) Seizing the opportunity, Hioki clinches.
(Rd 1 - 05:48) Clinched with Aldo, Hioki looks to try and take him down.
(Rd 1 - 05:48) Aldo stops the takedown attempt, then uses his wrestling to take control of the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 05:27) Aldo is trying to push Hioki so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 05:27) Aldo does it, Hioki is stuck with his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 05:15) Aldo tries to use a knee to the thigh, but Hioki is able to block it.
(Rd 1 - 04:58) Hioki goes to the ribs, then the head, with short punches.
(Rd 1 - 04:43) Aldo hits a knee strike to the side of the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 04:28) Aldo tries to throw a knee to the thigh, but Hioki seizes the chance to create some space and break free.
(Rd 1 - 04:13) Aldo is still moving well, but he is definitely breathing a little deeper now.
(Rd 1 - 04:08) Hioki clearly respects his opponent's striking as he is very wary about getting close enough to grapple.
(Rd 1 - 04:08) A jab lands from Aldo, but Hioki steps back to avoid a high right head kick.
(Rd 1 - 03:44) Hioki isn't rushing in, worried about potentially getting hit if he gets close enough to grapple.
(Rd 1 - 03:44) Aldo connects with a nice jab and then lands a hard low kick to the legs.
(Rd 1 - 03:35) Limping heavily, Hioki is struggling to move around.
(Rd 1 - 03:24) A one-two from Aldo fails to land.
(Rd 1 - 03:18) Hioki comes in and grabs Aldo in a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:08) Hioki tries to take Aldo down.
(Rd 1 - 03:08) Aldo blocks the takedown attempt and takes control of the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 02:57) Aldo is trying to push Hioki so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 02:57) Hioki ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 02:39) Hioki uses his wrestling skills to prevent Aldo from throwing any knee strikes.
(Rd 1 - 02:20) A few short punches to the ribs land, as Hioki fights back.
(Rd 1 - 02:06) Aldo goes for a knee to the thigh but Hioki wrestles free and circles back to the center.
(Rd 1 - 01:51) Aldo appears to be feeling a little fatigue for the first time in this fight, his hands are starting to lower just a fraction.
(Rd 1 - 01:41) Aldo throws a quick punch but doesn't land.
(Rd 1 - 01:36) Hioki seizes the chance and grabs Aldo into a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 01:27) Hioki attempts to wrestle Aldo to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 01:27) Hioki can't get the takedown as Aldo wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 01:02) Aldo looks to sweep a leg out from under Hioki so as to take him down with a trip.
(Rd 1 - 01:02) It's unsuccessful, Hioki maintained a good solid base.
(Rd 1 - 00:42) Aldo looks for a trip takedown by sweeping a leg.
(Rd 1 - 00:42) Aldo doesn't get it, Hioki blocked any attempt to move him.
(Rd 1 - 00:22) Breathing very hard, Aldo is looking ragged.
(Rd 1 - 00:22) The grappling doesn't last long, as they soon break away from each other.
(Rd 1 - 00:08) Limping heavily, Hioki is struggling to move around.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) The time is up, and that's the end of round one.
(Rd 2 - 05:00) And here we go, one last round!

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) And here we go, one last round!
(Rd 2 - 05:00) Hioki limps around, his leg now virtually useless thanks to all the damage it has taken.
(Rd 2 - 04:51) Aldo misses all the strikes in a combo that ended with a low kick attempt to the legs.
(Rd 2 - 04:30) Hioki looked like he was going to step in and grapple, but Aldo simply took the initiative first.
(Rd 2 - 04:30) Aldo hits a left jab and then hits a scything kick to the legs of Hioki.
(Rd 2 - 04:15) It looked like we were about to see Hioki try and get some grappling started, but Aldo was more aggressive and took the initiative.
(Rd 2 - 04:15) Aldo hits a left jab and then scores with a right cross that landed hard.
(Rd 2 - 03:54) Hioki warily circles, looking for the opening he needs to initiate some grappling.
(Rd 2 - 03:54) A jab is wide from Aldo, but then he hits a scything kick to the legs of Hioki.
(Rd 2 - 03:46) Hioki takes the chance and grabs Aldo into a clinch.
(Rd 2 - 03:39) Hioki looks for a trip takedown by sweeping a leg.
(Rd 2 - 03:39) Hioki can't get Aldo down to the ground.
(Rd 2 - 03:26) Hioki looks for a trip takedown.
(Rd 2 - 03:26) Hioki doesn't get it, Aldo blocked any attempt to move him.
(Rd 2 - 03:13) The grappling doesn't go anywhere, and they break apart.
(Rd 2 - 02:49) Aldo can't hit a set-up left jab, but then catches Hioki with a low kick to the front leg.
(Rd 2 - 02:34) Aldo hits a left jab and then hits Hioki with a beauty of a straight right.
(Rd 2 - 02:27) Aldo looks very, very tired.
(Rd 2 - 02:27) We've now passed the halfway mark in this round.
(Rd 2 - 02:22) Aldo lands a jab and then hits a crunching straight right to the jaw!
(Rd 2 - 02:22) Hioki wobbles, then falls!
(Rd 2 - 02:12) Aldo quickly goes for the kill, looking to stomp and kick the dazed Hioki!
(Rd 2 - 02:12) Aldo hits several big stomps and kicks, but Hioki somehow hangs on!
(Rd 2 - 01:54) Aldo leaps into the air, looking for a flying stomp!
(Rd 2 - 01:54) Aldo hits the stomp to the head! Hioki is out like a light!
(Rd 2 - 01:36) Jose Aldo takes the win by knock out!

Official Result: Jose Aldo def. Hatsu Hioki by KO (Stomp) in 3:24 of Round 2.

Heavyweight Bout
Eric Esch (10-5-1) vs. Kimbo Slice (1-1)

In the last of the preliminary fights, Eric 'Butterbean' Esch (10-5-1, 2-3 PRIDE) goes head to head with Kimbo Slice (1-1, 1-1 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Heavyweight division.

Marc Goddard will be the referee. Our judges at ringside are: Tetsuzan Watoga, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Takenaka Suzu.

There's a big size difference in this fight, Butterbean is probably at least 40lbs heavier. That's a major disadvantage for Kimbo to try and overcome.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Kimbo deliberately doesn't touch gloves to start.
(Rd 1 - 09:50) They stand and trade, but all the shots are either off target or are safely dealt with.
(Rd 1 - 09:26) They engage in the center.
(Rd 1 - 09:26) Neither fighter manages to find the target in an exchange of strikes.
(Rd 1 - 09:26) Kimbo misses with a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 09:26) Butterbean doesn't find the mark with a right hook.
(Rd 1 - 09:13) The two fighters engage with strikes but nothing significant lands.
(Rd 1 - 08:52) Both fighters come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 08:52) Kimbo scores with a left hook.
(Rd 1 - 08:52) Butterbean misses with a left jab but lands cleanly with a powerful straight right!
(Rd 1 - 08:37) Kimbo is knocked down by that shot!
(Rd 1 - 08:37) Butterbean quickly pounces, looking to rain down punches on the stunned Kimbo!
(Rd 1 - 08:37) Butterbean fires away with punches and Kimbo is taking powerful shot after powerful shot!
(Rd 1 - 08:37) Referee Marc Goddard is forced to jump in and stop the fight!
(Rd 1 - 08:23) The winner, by TKO, is Eric 'Butterbean' Esch!

Official Result: Eric Esch def. Kimbo Slice by TKO (Strikes) in 1:37 of Round 1.

Main Card

Lightweight Bout
Hayato Sakurai (31-11-2) vs. Pat Healy (19-14)

Next up is our first main fight of the night, in which Hayato 'Mach' Sakurai (31-11-2, 9-7 PRIDE) battles Pat 'Bam Bam' Healy (19-14, 0-0 PRIDE).

The referee is John McCarthy. The judges for this bout are: Tetsuzan Watoga, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Takenaka Suzu.

There's a roar from the crowd as Sakurai enters, he is from around here.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:52) They come together and start wrestling in the over-under clinch position.
(Rd 1 - 09:52) Healy manages to get control of the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:43) Healy hits Sakurai with a big knee strike to the body from the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 09:26) Using his wrestling skills, Healy is trying to push Sakurai up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:26) Sakurai ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:10) Healy pins Sakurai up against the ropes and stomps down hard on his foot.
(Rd 1 - 08:58) Healy is trying to lock Sakurai into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 08:58) He has it hooked, Sakurai needs to find a way out quickly.
(Rd 1 - 08:43) Sakurai blocks a knee strike, but cannot get free of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 08:10) From the clinch, Sakurai takes a knee to the chest, but there wasn't much power behind it.
(Rd 1 - 07:54) Sakurai blocks a knee strike, but cannot get free of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 07:33) From the clinch, Healy hits Sakurai with a knee to the ribs, but it lacked power.
(Rd 1 - 07:15) Sakurai partially blocks a knee strike, enough to allow him to wrestle free of the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 06:38) Seeing his opponent about to shoot in, Sakurai timed it well and moved in to start a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 06:27) Sakurai is trying to push Healy so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 06:27) Healy doesn't let himself be driven back though, and gains a dominant position in the grapple instead.
(Rd 1 - 06:03) Healy is looking to muscle Sakurai back against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 06:03) Healy can't do it though, and ends up being out-wrestled in the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 05:50) Sakurai is trying to push Healy so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 05:50) Sakurai does it, Healy is stuck with his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 05:31) Sakurai attempts to set up a judo-based throw to take Healy to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 05:31) Sakurai doesn't get the throw, Healy instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 05:10) Healy tries to get Sakurai into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:10) Healy manages it and now controls Sakurai by the back of the head.
(Rd 1 - 04:56) We pass the halfway mark of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:56) Using the clinch, Healy hits a vicious knee to the face!
(Rd 1 - 04:56) There is blood dripping from the nose of Sakurai, it may have been broken by that shot.
(Rd 1 - 04:56) A broken nose will certainly have a big impact upon his breathing.
(Rd 1 - 04:43) Sakurai partially blocks a knee strike, enough to allow him to wrestle free of the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 04:04) Sakurai is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 1 - 03:56) Sakurai comes forward looking to force a striking exchange.
(Rd 1 - 03:56) Sakurai moves into the pocket.
(Rd 1 - 03:56) Sakurai uses a left jab but Healy dodges the leg kick that follows.
(Rd 1 - 03:38) Sakurai closes in on Healy, looking to unleash some strikes.
(Rd 1 - 03:38) Sakurai can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then scores with a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 03:22) Stepping in, Sakurai aggressively get a dominant clinch position.
(Rd 1 - 03:11) Sakurai is trying to muscle Healy up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:11) Sakurai can't do it though, Healy defended it well.
(Rd 1 - 02:53) Using his wrestling skills, Healy is trying to push Sakurai up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 02:53) Healy manages it and controls Sakurai up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 02:37) Healy goes to use some dirty boxing, but Sakurai is aware of the danger and uses wrestling to prevent any damage from happening.
(Rd 1 - 02:19) Sakurai scores with a few punches to the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 02:06) Healy tries some dirty boxing, but Sakurai wrestles his way out of trouble and manages to turn it around so that Healy ends up backed against the ropes instead.
(Rd 1 - 01:40) Sakurai looks to set up a judo throw.
(Rd 1 - 01:40) An outside leg trip sweeps Healy down to the ground where he is left on his back under side control!
(Rd 1 - 01:26) Sakurai attempts to move to mount.
(Rd 1 - 01:26) Healy tries to sweep from the mount attempt but gets rolled and gives up his back.
(Rd 1 - 01:04) Sakurai successfully gets both hooks in, and seems primed to finish.
(Rd 1 - 00:43) Sakurai pounds away on Healy, landing several good shots in the process.
(Rd 1 - 00:30) Sakurai pounds away, but is unable to land many clean shots on Healy.
(Rd 1 - 00:14) Sakurai is looking really tired.
(Rd 1 - 00:14) Sakurai, with both hooks in, attempts to get a rear naked choke fully applied.
(Rd 1 - 00:14) Healy stops Sakurai from getting his arm under the chin and completing the choke.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) The time is up, and that's the end of round one.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) Our last round, round two, begins!
(Rd 2 - 04:53) It looked like we were about to see Healy try and get some grappling started, but Sakurai was more aggressive and took the initiative.
(Rd 2 - 04:53) Sakurai hits a left hand, but Healy avoids a big right.
(Rd 2 - 04:35) Healy steps forward and a striking exchange begins.
(Rd 2 - 04:35) Sakurai tries to hit a jab, but misses.
(Rd 2 - 04:35) Healy can't connect with a jab, but then he scores with a right cross that landed hard.
(Rd 2 - 04:29) Healy is still moving well, but he is definitely breathing a little deeper now.
(Rd 2 - 04:18) Sakurai throws a two-punch combo but Healy avoids both.
(Rd 2 - 03:57) There's a takedown attempt from Healy.
(Rd 2 - 03:57) Sakurai almost stops the takedown but is left hopping on one leg while Healy holds the other.
(Rd 2 - 03:57) Healy drives Sakurai up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 03:36) Sakurai waits for Healy to try some dirty boxing, then quickly uses wrestling to turn him around so that he now has his back to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 03:14) Healy waits for Sakurai to lift a leg to attempt a foot stomp, then turns him around so that he now has his back to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 02:46) Healy is trying to force Sakurai into a Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 2 - 02:46) Healy achieves it, Sakurai could not fight out of it.
(Rd 2 - 02:30) We are now at the halfway point of the round.
(Rd 2 - 02:30) Using the clinch, Healy hits a knee to the ribs, but couldn't generate a lot of power behind it.
(Rd 2 - 02:14) Sakurai blocks a knee strike, but cannot get free of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 2 - 01:47) Sakurai looks like he doesn't have a lot left to give.
(Rd 2 - 01:47) Healy misses a knee strike, but maintains his control of the clinch.
(Rd 2 - 01:09) Using the Muay Thai clinch, Healy blasts Sakurai with a big knee to the chest.
(Rd 2 - 00:58) Healy finds an attempted knee strike caught, and the leverage allows Sakurai to wrestle free of the Muay Thai clinch.
(Rd 2 - 00:22) Both fighters move in and engage.
(Rd 2 - 00:22) Healy misses a right hook and leaves himself open to be countered with a jab and a spinning kick.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) Time runs out and that's the end of the fight.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) Here come the official decisions.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have given Sakurai the win.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) So the winner, by unanimous decision, is Hayato 'Mach' Sakurai!

Official Result:Hayato Sakurai def. Pat Healt by Unanimous Decision.

Heavyweight Bout
Yoshihiro Nakao (9-1-2 NC) vs. Bob Sapp (9-5-1)

Another match is about to begin; Yoshihiro 'Kiss' Nakao (9-1-2 NC, 5-1 PRIDE) competing against Bob 'The Beast' Sapp (9-5-1, 3-4 PRIDE).

John McCarthy will be the referee. Our ringside judges are: Tony Weeks, Kanagi Fujimaro, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

There's a big size difference in this fight, Sapp is probably at least 45lbs heavier. That's a major disadvantage for Nakao to try and overcome.

Nakao, being in front of a home crowd, gets a loud cheer as he enters.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fighters touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:54) Nakao closes in on Sapp, looking to unleash some strikes.
(Rd 1 - 09:54) It looked like we were about to see a shot from Sapp, but Nakao was more aggressive and took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 09:54) Nakao hits a left jab and then lands a big right hand.
(Rd 1 - 09:36) They exchange a few strikes but nothing significant lands.
(Rd 1 - 09:11) Sapp chooses to shoot in on Nakao.
(Rd 1 - 09:11) Nakao partially defends it and ends up hopping on one foot while Sapp has a hold of the other.
(Rd 1 - 09:11) Sapp uses the position to drive Nakao up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:47) Looking for a takedown, Sapp drops down and gets hold of a leg. Nakao remains standing on the other foot, leaning against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:47) Nakao keeps calm and manages to pull Sapp back into a clinch, preventing the takedown.
(Rd 1 - 08:35) Nakao is controlled up against the ropes and takes a hard foot stomp.
(Rd 1 - 08:22) Sapp tries to take Nakao down.
(Rd 1 - 08:22) Sapp can't get Nakao down to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 08:08) Sapp drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down.
(Rd 1 - 08:08) Sapp gets the takedown! Nakao pulls guard.
(Rd 1 - 07:50) Sapp pounds away but is unable to inflict much damage on Nakao.
(Rd 1 - 07:30) Nakao reaches up and tries to lock up an arm.
(Rd 1 - 07:30) An armbar is applied, and as soon as the arm is pulled straight Sapp has to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 06:59) The winner, by submission, is Yoshihiro 'Kiss' Nakao!

Official Result: Yoshihiro Nakao def. Bob Sapp by Submission (Armbar) in 3:01 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout
Kazuo Misaki (21-9-2) vs. Delson Heleno (14-2)

Next up, Kazuo 'The Hitman' Misaki (21-9-2, 7-5 PRIDE) battling Delson 'Pe de Chumbo' Heleno (14-2, 2-0 PRIDE).

Our referee is Cecil Peoples. The judges are: Tony Weeks, Kanagi Fujimaro, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

Misaki looks significantly bigger than Heleno as they prepare to fight, even though they weighed in exactly the same yesterday.

There's a roar from the crowd as Misaki enters, he is from around here.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The two fighters touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:48) Both fighters want to get in close, and they get into a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:48) Misaki manages to aggressively get a good position in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:40) With control of the clinch, Misaki tries to complete a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:40) Misaki can't get Heleno down to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 09:28) Using his wrestling skills, Misaki is trying to push Heleno up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:28) Heleno ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:16) Misaki looks to take Heleno down with a trip.
(Rd 1 - 09:16) He executes an outside leg trip, sweeping Heleno to the mat where he pulls guard!
(Rd 1 - 09:01) Misaki keeps Heleno guessing with a few quick strikes.
(Rd 1 - 08:35) Heleno reaches up and tries to lock up an arm.
(Rd 1 - 08:35) Misaki blocks it.
(Rd 1 - 08:01) Misaki clings very tight to Heleno while using short strikes, clearly trying to minimise the threat of a submission attempt.
(Rd 1 - 07:43) Heleno attempts to secure an arm.
(Rd 1 - 07:43) Misaki gets caught in an armbar...and has no choice but to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 07:26) The winner, by submission; Delson Heleno!

Official Result: Delson Heleno def. Kazuo Misaki by Submission (Armbar) in 2:34 of Round 1.

Heavyweight Bout
Roy Nelson (11-3) vs. Aleksander Emelianenko (13-4)

Moving on to the next match, in which Roy 'Big Country' Nelson
(11-3, 3-1 PRIDE) takes on Aleksander Emelianenko (13-4, 9-3 PRIDE).

Refereeing this bout will be Cecil Peoples. Our ringside judges are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Takenaka Suzu, and Tony Weeks.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fight begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) They start with a touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:52) They engage in the center.
(Rd 1 - 09:52) Emelianenko lands a left jab and a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 09:52) Nelson lands a nice right hook.
(Rd 1 - 09:30) Both fighters move in and engage.
(Rd 1 - 09:30) Emelianenko misses with a big right hand, allowing Nelson to counter with a wicked right uppercut!
(Rd 1 - 09:23) Emelianenko hits the floor, he has been knocked out!
(Rd 1 - 09:23) Roy 'Big Country' Nelson takes the win by knock out!

Official Result: Roy Nelson def. Aleksander Emelianenko by KO (Punch) in 0:37 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout
Takanori Gomi (28-5-1 NC) vs. Donald Cerrone (10-1)

The co-main event is up next. 'The Fireball Kid' Takanori Gomi (28-5-1 NC, 14-3-1 NC) takes on Donald 'Cowboy' Cerrone (10-1, 1-0 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Lightweight division.

Refereeing this bout will be Cecil Peoples. The judges for this bout are: Tetsuzan Watoga, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Takenaka Suzu.

Gomi gets a good reaction from the fans as he enters the arena, he's fighting in front of a home crowd tonight.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell!
(Rd 1 - 09:53) An exchange of strikes sees both fighters fail to land anything significant.
(Rd 1 - 09:21) They come together and trade leather but neither fighter really does any damage.
(Rd 1 - 08:55) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 08:55) Gomi misses a left hook and gets countered with a quick left hook.
(Rd 1 - 08:41) Both fighters meet in the center.
(Rd 1 - 08:41) Gomi counters a leg kick attempt with a nice left hook.
(Rd 1 - 08:23) They exchange a few strikes but nothing significant lands.
(Rd 1 - 07:54) They come together and strike but neither fighter does any damage.
(Rd 1 - 07:37) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 07:37) Cerrone hits a jab but can't get a kick to the body.
(Rd 1 - 07:37) Gomi is off target with a right jab but hits a good left hand.
(Rd 1 - 07:18) The two fighters come together and strike but it's really tentative and nothing comes of it.
(Rd 1 - 06:47) The two combatants meet in the center and start to strike.
(Rd 1 - 06:47) Cerrone misses a right hook and leaves himself open to be countered with a good left hook.
(Rd 1 - 06:27) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 06:27) Cerrone hits a jab and also just about lands a head kick.
(Rd 1 - 06:27) Gomi hits a good left hand.
(Rd 1 - 06:02) They engage in the center.
(Rd 1 - 06:02) Cerrone misses with a pair of jabs but hits a kick to the lead leg.
(Rd 1 - 06:02) Gomi nails a left cross.
(Rd 1 - 05:50) Gomi takes a moment to switch to a traditional stance.
(Rd 1 - 05:41) Both fighters come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 05:41) Cerrone counters a right hand with a quick kick to the lead leg.
(Rd 1 - 05:30) Taking a few gulps of breath, Gomi is giving the first hint that he is starting to tire a touch.
(Rd 1 - 05:19) They stand and trade in the center of the ring but neither fighter can land a good shot.
(Rd 1 - 04:53) We've now passed the halfway mark in this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:53) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 04:53) Cerrone hits a left jab but doesn't get a leg kick.
(Rd 1 - 04:53) Gomi lands a nice right hook.
(Rd 1 - 04:38) Both fighters come together and strike.
(Rd 1 - 04:38) Cerrone scores with a jab but misses with a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 04:38) Gomi connects cleanly with a right hand.
(Rd 1 - 04:22) The two fighters come forward and engage.
(Rd 1 - 04:22) Gomi uses a left jab but has a right hand absorbed on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 04:22) Cerrone scores with a jab and also scores with a quick kick to the lead leg.
(Rd 1 - 04:11) Cerrone is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 1 - 03:58) The two fighters come forward and engage.
(Rd 1 - 03:58) Gomi is left off balance after falling for a cleverly executed feint.
(Rd 1 - 03:58) Cerrone dodges a right hand and counter-attacks with a left jab and a right hand that landed cleanly.
(Rd 1 - 03:51) Limping slightly, Gomi is definitely starting to feel the damage to his legs.
(Rd 1 - 03:40) The two fighters engage.
(Rd 1 - 03:40) Cerrone misses with a left jab but scores with a spin kick to the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 03:40) Gomi scores with a great right hook.
(Rd 1 - 03:14) Both fighters step in to strike.
(Rd 1 - 03:14) Gomi counters a right hand with a powerful straight right that landed cleanly!
(Rd 1 - 03:10) Cerrone collapses, that shot knocked him out!
(Rd 1 - 03:10) By knock out, the winner is Takanori Gomi!

Official Result: Takanori Gomi def. Donald Cerrone by KO (Punch) in 6:50 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout
Kazushi Sakuraba (23-11-1-2 NC) vs. Chris Leben (17-5)

It's time for the main event of the evening! 'The Gracie Hunter' Kazushi Sakuraba (23-11-1-2 NC, 20-10-1 PRIDE) competes against Chris 'The Crippler' Leben (17-5, 1-0 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Welterweight division.

John McCarthy is the referee for this fight. Our judges at ringside are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Takenaka Suzu, and Tony Weeks.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We start with a touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:49) Leben throws a punch but Sakuraba was equal to it.
(Rd 1 - 09:44) Seizing the opportunity, Sakuraba clinches.
(Rd 1 - 09:38) Sakuraba looks for a trip takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:38) Sakuraba doesn't get the takedown, Leben instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 09:14) With control of the clinch, Leben tries to complete a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:14) Leben doesn't get it, Sakuraba blocked any attempt to move him.
(Rd 1 - 08:56) Leben attempts a trip to put Sakuraba on the ground.
(Rd 1 - 08:56) It doesn't work, Sakuraba defended against it well.
(Rd 1 - 08:37) Leben separates from Sakuraba and we're back to a stand-off.
(Rd 1 - 08:16) Leben confidently moves in closer, looking to throw some strikes.
(Rd 1 - 08:16) Leben hits a right jab and then hits Sakuraba with a beautiful left uppercut!
(Rd 1 - 08:16) Sakuraba is out! It's all over!
(Rd 1 - 08:06) Chris 'The Crippler' Leben takes the win by knock out!

Official Result: Chris Leben def. Kazushi Sakuraba by KO (Punch) in 1:54 of Round 1.

<img src=https://i0.wp.com/www.superlutas.com.br/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/05Yoshihiro_Akiyama_v_Chris_Leben.jpg>

PRIDE 44: Into the Fire
Date: June 8, 2008
Venue: Yokohama Arena
Local: Yokohama, Japan
Attendance: 10,523
Gate: $ 3,073,242
Critical Rating: 71%
Commercial Rating: 72%

Main Card

Welterweight Bout: Chris Leben def. Kazushi Sakuraba by KO (Punch) in 1:54 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout: Takanori Gomi def. Donald Cerrone by KO (Punch) in 6:50 of Round 1.

Heavyweight Bout: Roy Nelson def. Aleksander Emelianenko by KO (Punch) in 0:37 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout: Delson Heleno def. Kazuo Misaki by Submission (Armbar) in 2:34 of Round 1.

Heavyweight Bout: Yoshihiro Nakao def. Bob Sapp by Submission (Armbar) in 3:01 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout: Hayato Sakurai def. Pat Healy by Unanimous Decision.

Preliminary Card

Heavyweight Bout: Eric Esch def. Kimbo Slice by TKO (Strikes) in 1:37 of Round 2.

Featherweight Bout: Jose Aldo def. Hatsu Hioki by KO (Stomp) in 3:24 of Round 2.

Lightweight Bout: Vitor Ribeiro def. Eiji Mitsuoka by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 4:36 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout: Keita Nakamura def. Mamed Khalidov by TKO (Strikes) in 9:49 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout: Vladimir Matyushenko def. Stephan Bonnar by Unanimous Decision.

Featherweight Bout: Yoshiro Maeda def. Akitoshi Tamura by TKO (Strikes) in 2:00 of Round 2.

Bonus

KO of the Night: Chris Leben

Submission of the Night: Delson Heleno

Fight of the Night: Takanori Gomi vs. Donald Cerrone

POST FIGHT

<img src=https://i.imgur.com/TwXQehx.png>

- Sakakibara announced that Paulo Filho was removed from the welterweight tournament, as he was unable to recover from the injury in his hand. And disclosed that Hector Lombard will replace him in the competition.

- Leben said that winning the Sakuraba legend was the greatest moment of his career and hopes to return to the ring soon.

-Sakuraba said that he will return to the gym to correct his mistakes and hopes to return better.

- Gomi said that many were already taking him out of the game, and that the knockout motivated him to another race for the title.

PREDICTIONS

CageRage (5-7)

vladjarca (4-8)

vladjarca · February 15, 2021

Well, those predictions were quite bad.. Great to see Gomi win, let's see if he can make that run for the title!

rodrigoviolim · February 16, 2021

PRIDE: CRITICAL COUNTDOWN 2008 WEIGH-IN RESULTS: ALL FIGHTERS MAKE WEIGHT

by Sean Smith

Today the PRIDE: Critical Countdown 2008 weigh-in took place and, as expected, all the fighters participating in the tournament reached the contracted weights mark, as well as the fighters on the preliminary card.

Until today PRIDE had not announced the order of the fights that was revealed only today according to how the fighters appeared to weigh themselves before the press.

The main fight will be between Ricardo Arona who will face Kiyoshi Tamura and the co-main event will be on account of the welterweight clash between Carlos Condit against Yuki Kondo.

As announced by Sakakibara at the PRIDE 44 conference, Paulo Filho was removed from the tournament, as he was unable to recover in time to face Jose Landi-Jons. Hector Lombard will be his replacement.

PRIDE: Critical Countdown 2008 will take place at Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan. It will broadcast by ESPN Africa, Eurosport Russia, SkySports 2, NHK, Polsat Sport, Fox Sports Asia, CBS Sports Network, ESPN Latin America and Fox Sports Australia. The card will also cover Blurcat.com's play by play with "The Voice" Matt Edwards and Daniel Tuxford.

Check out the Results:

PRIDE: Critical Countdown 2008

Date: June 23, 2008

Venue: Saitama Super Arena

Local: Saitama, Japan

Main Card

Middleweight Bout: Ricardo Arona (205 lbs) vs. Kiyoshi Tamura (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Carlos Condit (185 lbs) vs. Yuki Kondo (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Glover Teixeira (205 lbs) vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Ronaldo Souza (185 lbs) vs. Murilo Bustamante (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Yoshihiro Akiyama (205 lbs) vs. Renato Sobral (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Hector Lombard (185 lbs) vs. Jose Landi-Jons (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Vitor Belfort (205 lbs) vs. Ikuhisa Minowa (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Paul Daley (185 lbs) vs. Jorge Santiago (185 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Middleweight Bout: Kazuhiro Nakamura (205 lbs) vs. Emanuel Newton (205 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Kazuyuki Fujita (235 lbs) vs. Ricco Rodriguez (245 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Tatsuya Kawajiri (145 lbs) vs. Masakazu Imanari (145 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Daijiru Matsui (185 lbs) vs. Yuki Sasaki (185 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Patricio Freire (145 lbs) vs. Tie Quan Zhang (145 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Gregor Gracie (175 lbs) vs. Taiei Kin (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Chris Horodecki (165 lbs) vs. Kazunori Yokota (165 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Tomonari Konomata (145 lbs) vs. Chan Sung Jung (145 lbs)

MAKE YOUR PREDICTIONS FOR THIS CARD

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rodrigoviolim · February 16, 2021

Well, those predictions were quite bad.. Great to see Gomi win, let's see if he can make that run for the title!

your predictions were not good. Yes man, I was not surprised by Gomi's victory, but the way it happened shocked me because Cerrone was undefeated and is champion of another organization.

CageRage · February 16, 2021

PRIDE: Critical Countdown 2008

Date: June 23, 2008

Venue: Saitama Super Arena

Local: Saitama, Japan

Main Card

Middleweight Bout: Ricardo Arona (205 lbs) vs. Kiyoshi Tamura (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Carlos Condit (185 lbs) vs. Yuki Kondo (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Glover Teixeira (205 lbs) vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Ronaldo Souza (185 lbs) vs. Murilo Bustamante (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Yoshihiro Akiyama (205 lbs) vs. Renato Sobral (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Hector Lombard (185 lbs) vs. Jose Landi-Jons (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Vitor Belfort (205 lbs) vs. Ikuhisa Minowa (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Paul Daley (185 lbs) vs. Jorge Santiago (185 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Middleweight Bout: Kazuhiro Nakamura (205 lbs) vs. Emanuel Newton (205 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Kazuyuki Fujita (235 lbs) vs. Ricco Rodriguez (245 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Tatsuya Kawajiri (145 lbs) vs. Masakazu Imanari (145 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Daijiru Matsui (185 lbs) vs. Yuki Sasaki (185 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Patricio Freire (145 lbs) vs. Tie Quan Zhang (145 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Gregor Gracie (175 lbs) vs. Taiei Kin (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Chris Horodecki (165 lbs) vs. Kazunori Yokota (165 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Tomonari Konomata (145 lbs) vs. Chan Sung Jung (145 lbs)

vladjarca · February 16, 2021

Main Card

Middleweight Bout: Ricardo Arona (205 lbs) vs. Kiyoshi Tamura (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Carlos Condit (185 lbs) vs. Yuki Kondo (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Glover Teixeira (205 lbs) vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Ronaldo Souza (185 lbs) vs. Murilo Bustamante (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Yoshihiro Akiyama (205 lbs) vs. Renato Sobral (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Hector Lombard (185 lbs) vs. Jose Landi-Jons (185 lbs)

Middleweight Bout: Vitor Belfort (205 lbs) vs. Ikuhisa Minowa (205 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Paul Daley (185 lbs) vs. Jorge Santiago (185 lbs)

Preliminary Card

Middleweight Bout: Kazuhiro Nakamura (205 lbs) vs. Emanuel Newton (205 lbs)

Heavyweight Bout: Kazuyuki Fujita (235 lbs) vs. Ricco Rodriguez (245 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Tatsuya Kawajiri (145 lbs) vs. Masakazu Imanari (145 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Daijiru Matsui (185 lbs) vs. Yuki Sasaki (185 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Patricio Freire (145 lbs) vs. Tie Quan Zhang (145 lbs)

Welterweight Bout: Gregor Gracie (175 lbs) vs. Taiei Kin (185 lbs)

Lightweight Bout: Chris Horodecki (165 lbs) vs. Kazunori Yokota (165 lbs)

Featherweight Bout: Tomonari Konomata (145 lbs) vs. Chan Sung Jung (145 lbs)

rodrigoviolim · February 17, 2021

Matt Edwards (ME): Hi, I'm Matt Edwards! Live from Saitama Super Arena. Today PRIDE FC middleweight and welterweight tournaments continues, with the best eight fighters in their divisions. 'Brazilian Tiger' Ricardo Arona will make the main event of the event against veteran Kiyoshi Tamura, who will have the local support of Japanese fans.

With me tonight my broadcast partner Daniel Tuxford.

Good night Daniel! Happy new year to you my friend!

Daniel Tuxford (DT): Good night Matt and MMA fans! And here we go Matt, today we will know who will be the four fighters, from each division, who will approach the title of the tournament and who will establish themselves as the division's linear champion.

ME: Come on! Here everything is ready for the opening of the event. And right after that we are already going to the first fight MMA fans, who will accompany us tonight on blurcat.com. Now it's up to her, the "PRIDE voice" Lenne Hardt!

Lenne Hardt: PRIDE: CRITICAL COUNTDOWN 2008 Liveeeee from Saitama Super Arena! Now here comes the full card!

The first match!!! From South Korea, Chan Sung Jung! From Japan, Tomonari Kanomata!!!

Second match; From Japaan, Kazunori Yokotaaa!!! From Canada, Chris Horodeckiii!!!

Third Match; From South Korea, Taiei Kin! From Brazil, Gregooor Gracieee!!!

Fourth match; From China, Tieeee Quan Zhaaang! From Brazil, Patricio 'Pitbull' Freireee!!!

Fifth match; Frommm Japan, Yuki Sasakiiiiiii!!! Frrrrrom Japaaan!!! Daijiruu Mattttsuiiii!!!

Sixth match; From Japan, Masakazuuuuu Imanariiiiiii! Frrrrom Japaaan, Tatsuyaaaa Kawajiriiiiiiiii!!

Seventh match; Frooom USA, Riccoooo Rodrigueeeezzz! Froooooommm Japaaan, Kaazuuyukiiii Fujitaaaa!!

Eighth match; Frooom USA, Emanuel Newwton! Froooooommm Japaaaan, Kaaaazuuuhiiirooo Nakamuraaaa!!

Ninth match; Froooooommm Brazil, Jooorge Santiagooo!! Frooom England, Paaaaaaul Daaaaley!!!

Tenth match; Froooooommm Japaaaan, 'Minowaaaaamaaaan'!! Frooom Brazilll, Viiiiiitor Beeeeelfoooortttt!!!

Eleventh match; Froooooommm Brazil, 'Peleeee' Jose Landi Jooons!!! Frooom Cubaaa, Hectoooor Lombaaaard!!!

Twelfth match; Froooooommm Brazil, Renatoooo Sobraaaal!!! Frooom Japaaaan, Yoshihirooooo Akiyaaaamaaaa!!!

Thirteenth match; Froooooommm Brazil, Muuuuriiilooo Bustamanteee!!! Frooom Braziiiil, Ronaaaldo 'Jacare' Souzaaaaa!!!

Fourteenth match; Froooooommm Brazil, Antonio Rogerio Nogueiraaaa!!! Frooom Braziiiiillll, Gloooover Teixeiraaa!!!

Fifteenth match; Froooooommm Japaaaaan, Yukiiiiii Kondoooooo!!! Frooom USAAAA, Caaaaaarlooooosss Conditttttttttt!!!

Final match: Frooooom Japaaaaan, Kiiiiyoooooshiiii Taaaaamuraaaaa!!!! Frooooooooommmm Braziiiiilll, Riiiiiiicardo Aronaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!

PRIDE: CRITICAL COUNTDOWN 2008 LIVE IN SAITAMA SUPER ARENA IS NOOOOOOOW!!!!!!

Preliminary Card

Featherweight Bout

Tomonari Konomata (11-2-3) vs. Chan Sung Jung (3-1)

The preliminary fights start with Tomonari Kanomata (11-2-3, 1-1 PRIDE) going up against 'The Korean Zombie' Chan Sung Jung (3-1, 0-0 PRIDE).

Our referee is Yuji Shimada. The judges are: Konishi Bunzo, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Takenaka Suzu.

About to fight in front of a home crowd, Kanomata unsurprisingly gets a loud ovation from the crowd as he makes his entrance.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 09:55) Jung chooses to shoot in on Kanomata.
(Rd 1 - 09:55) Kanomata partially defends it and ends up hopping on one foot while Jung has a hold of the other.
(Rd 1 - 09:55) With Kanomata not going down, Jung settles for pushing him up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:32) Jung tries to take Kanomata down.
(Rd 1 - 09:32) He gets a big takedown and he manages to get side control as a result.
(Rd 1 - 09:14) Jung looks to get a mount.
(Rd 1 - 09:14) Kanomata fights the attempted mount off, and they wind up scrambling for position.
(Rd 1 - 09:02) Jung manages to come out on top, holding Kanomata down in turtle position, facing him.
(Rd 1 - 08:48) Jung tries to kick to the body, but Kanomata scoots backward quickly and is able to stand back up.
(Rd 1 - 08:27) Jung comes in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 08:27) Kanomata almost stops the takedown but is left hopping on one leg while Jung holds the other.
(Rd 1 - 08:27) Jung drives Kanomata up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:14) Dropping down, Jung secures a leg and starts looking for a takedown. Kanomata is left hopping on his other leg, trying to balance.
(Rd 1 - 08:14) Kanomata gets dragged to the mat where he can only pull half guard.
(Rd 1 - 07:58) Jung fires away with punches, but does little in the way of damage.
(Rd 1 - 07:45) Kanomata tries to sweep Jung but can't do it.
(Rd 1 - 07:19) In half guard, Jung catches his breath, content just to throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 07:00) Kanomata gets some separation and tries to scramble for position.
(Rd 1 - 07:00) Jung seizes the opportunity, Kanomata was too slow and gets caught in side control.
(Rd 1 - 06:38) Jung fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves.
(Rd 1 - 06:11) Kanomata tries to move to guard, but Jung doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 05:53) Jung fires off a few punches as he catches his breath.
(Rd 1 - 05:35) Kanomata tries to pull guard on Jung but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 05:18) Jung punches down at Kanomata, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 04:58) Jung blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 04:39) Jung punches down at Kanomata, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 1 - 04:20) Jung blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 04:03) Jung throws a few right hands as he takes a moment to plan ahead.
(Rd 1 - 03:46) Kanomata tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 03:27) The lack of progress forces the referee to stand the fighters back up.
(Rd 1 - 03:14) Jung closes in on Kanomata, looking to unleash some strikes.
(Rd 1 - 03:14) Jung throws a two-punch combo but Kanomata avoids both.
(Rd 1 - 02:50) Kanomata looked like he was going to shoot, but Jung simply took the initiative first.
(Rd 1 - 02:50) A jab hits home from Jung and then he scores with a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 02:25) Kanomata looked like he was about to shoot, but Jung stepped in fast and started a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 02:09) Jung can't keep control of Kanomata in the grapple, and is soon being pushed around.
(Rd 1 - 01:53) Clinched with Jung, Kanomata looks to try and take him down.
(Rd 1 - 01:53) Kanomata doesn't get the takedown, Jung instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 01:26) Jung is trying to push Kanomata so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:26) Kanomata doesn't let himself be driven back though.
(Rd 1 - 01:11) Jung tries to wrestle Kanomata backward and up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 01:11) Jung doesn't manage it though, Kanomata defended it well.
(Rd 1 - 00:59) We're into the final minute of the round.
(Rd 1 - 00:59) Jung is trying to push Kanomata so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 00:59) Kanomata ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 00:39) Dropping down, Jung secures a leg and starts looking for a takedown. Kanomata is left hopping on his other leg, trying to balance.
(Rd 1 - 00:39) Kanomata keeps calm and manages to pull Jung back into a clinch, preventing the takedown.
(Rd 1 - 00:28) Jung keeps Kanomata up against the ropes with wrestling, then uses a hard foot stomp.
(Rd 1 - 00:16) With Kanomata stuck against the ropes, Jung tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs.
(Rd 1 - 00:16) It doesn't work, Kanomata defended against it well.
(Rd 1 - 00:05) Jung ducks down and grabs a leg. Kanomata remains standing, using the ropes for support, but is under threat of a takedown now.
(Rd 1 - 00:05) Kanomata yanks his leg free and circles out.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one is brought to an end as time runs out.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) That was a bit of a snoozer, hopefully the next round brings a little more action.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) And here we go, one last round!
(Rd 2 - 04:51) Moving in fast, Jung wrestles his way to a dominant position in the clinch.
(Rd 2 - 04:31) Jung is trying to muscle Kanomata up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:31) Jung achieves it, pinning Kanomata to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:17) With Kanomata stuck against the ropes, Jung tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs.
(Rd 2 - 04:17) Jung doesn't get the takedown, Kanomata instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 2 - 04:04) Kanomata tries to take Jung down.
(Rd 2 - 04:04) The takedown is completed, Kanomata gets side control from it.
(Rd 2 - 03:51) Kanomata attempts an armbar.
(Rd 2 - 03:51) Jung stops Kanomata from applying it.
(Rd 2 - 03:18) Jung tries to pull guard on Kanomata but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 2 - 03:06) Kanomata fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves.
(Rd 2 - 02:41) Jung tries to move to guard, but Kanomata doesn't allow it.
(Rd 2 - 02:23) We pass the halfway mark of this round.
(Rd 2 - 02:23) Kanomata tries to lock Jung into a kimura.
(Rd 2 - 02:23) Jung stops Kanomata from applying it.
(Rd 2 - 01:47) Kanomata blocks Jung as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 2 - 01:29) In side control, Kanomata throws a couple of punches designed to keep Jung guessing.
(Rd 2 - 01:07) Jung tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 2 - 00:54) The end of the round is coming quick, there's under a minute left.
(Rd 2 - 00:54) The lengthy period of stalemate results in the referee standing them both back up.
(Rd 2 - 00:54) Kanomata is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 2 - 00:54) Jung is starting to have to push himself now, and his corner respond by urging him on a little louder.
(Rd 2 - 00:39) There's a ragged-looking takedown attempt from a visibly tired Jung.
(Rd 2 - 00:39) Kanomata almost got away but not quite; he is left hopping while Jung has hold of one leg.
(Rd 2 - 00:39) Jung can't get Kanomata down and so settles for pushing him up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:15) Looking for a takedown, Jung drops down and gets hold of a leg. Kanomata remains standing on the other foot, leaning against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 00:15) Kanomata manages to fight off the takedown, eventually pulling his leg free and moving to the center.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) We reach the time limit and this fight is over.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The ring announcer is now giving the official decisions.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have given the victory to Jung.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The winner, by unanimous decision, is 'The Korean Zombie' Chan Sung Jung!

Official Result: Chan Sung Jung def. Tomonari Kanomata by Unanimous Decision.

Lightweight Bout
Chris Horodecki (10-1) vs. Kazunori Yokota (6-1-3)

Moving on to the next match, in which 'The Polish Hammer' Chris Horodecki (10-1, 0-1 PRIDE) competes against Kazunori Yokota (6-1-3, 0-1 PRIDE).

The referee is John McCarthy. The judges are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Takenaka Suzu, and Tsutsumi Aki.

There's a roar from the crowd as Yokota enters, he is from around here.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) They start with a touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:51) Horodecki misses all the strikes in a combo that ended with a head kick attempt.
(Rd 1 - 09:44) Yokota takes the chance and shoots on Horodecki.
(Rd 1 - 09:36) The takedown is unsuccessful, Horodecki sprawled to block it and then steps back to safety.
(Rd 1 - 08:56) Horodecki connects with a nice jab and then hits a body kick.
(Rd 1 - 08:35) Horodecki can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then hits a scything kick to the legs of Yokota.
(Rd 1 - 08:13) Horodecki lands a jab and then hits a high right kick to the side of the head.
(Rd 1 - 07:56) Horodecki lands a left hand and then hits Yokota with a great high right head kick.
(Rd 1 - 07:45) That last hit did some damage, Yokota is trying to cover up but is clearly hurt! He slumps up against the ropes looking dazed and unsteady!
(Rd 1 - 07:45) Horodecki floors Yokota with a vicious head kick!
(Rd 1 - 07:30) Without hesitation, Horodecki goes to finish Yokota off with stomps and kicks!
(Rd 1 - 07:30) Horodecki hits several big stomps and kicks, but Yokota somehow hangs on!
(Rd 1 - 07:13) Horodecki tries to secure a ground position.
(Rd 1 - 07:13) Horodecki attains side control.
(Rd 1 - 07:02) Yokota takes a crunching knee strike to the ribs from under side control!
(Rd 1 - 06:48) Yokota takes a knee strike to the ribs from under side control.
(Rd 1 - 06:32) Horodecki holds Yokota in position with side control and hits a knee into the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 06:20) Horodecki keeps Yokota guessing with a few quick strikes.
(Rd 1 - 06:02) Horodecki blocks Yokota as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:42) Horodecki throws a few right hands to the body.
(Rd 1 - 05:16) Horodecki blocks Yokota as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 1 - 04:56) We pass the halfway mark of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:56) Yokota takes a knee strike to the ribs from under side control.
(Rd 1 - 04:43) The lack of progress forces the referee to stand the fighters back up.
(Rd 1 - 04:38) Horodecki moves in on Yokota, preparing to throw.
(Rd 1 - 04:38) Horodecki can't connect with a jab, but then hits Yokota with a beautiful right uppercut!
(Rd 1 - 04:38) Yokota hits the mat, that shot has rocked him!
(Rd 1 - 04:34) Horodecki moves in quickly, kneeling beside Yokota and starting to hammer down with punches!
(Rd 1 - 04:34) Horodecki unloads with massive right hands and Yokota is getting destroyed!
(Rd 1 - 04:34) Yokota appears to go limp and referee John McCarthy dives in and pulls Horodecki away - it's all over!
(Rd 1 - 04:15) By knock out, the winner is Chris Horodecki!

Official Result: Chris Horodecki def, Kazunori Yokota by KO (Punch) in 5:45 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout
Gregor Gracie (2-1) vs. Taiei Kin (2-2)

Next up is a match in which Gregor Gracie (2-1, 2-0 PRIDE) faces 'Kin-chan' Taiei Kin (2-2, 0-0 PRIDE).

Refereeing this bout will be Mario Yamasaki. Our judges at ringside are: Tsutsumi Aki, Tetsuzan Watoga, and Konishi Bunzo.

Both fighters came in at the same weight at yesterday's weigh ins, but Kin clearly has a significant weight advantage now.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fighters touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:49) Moving around, Gracie is looking for an opening to shoot without exposing himself to a counter-strike.
(Rd 1 - 09:49) A jab lands from Kin, but then can't connect with a head kick...and even worse, Gracie seizes the opportunity and catches the leg!
(Rd 1 - 09:31) Kin hops on one foot, trying to balance. Gracie tries for a takedown attempt.
(Rd 1 - 09:31) The takedown is successful, Kin pulls guard.
(Rd 1 - 09:20) Gracie looks to get past the guard.
(Rd 1 - 09:20) He manages to pass, but only to half guard.
(Rd 1 - 09:20) Kin made it as hard as possible and is really concentrating on trying to slow Gracie down.
(Rd 1 - 08:22) Gracie pounds away with rights, a couple of heavy shots get through and rock Kin.
(Rd 1 - 08:09) Gracie is trying to get out of half guard and into a better position.
(Rd 1 - 08:09) Gracie gains side control after getting his leg free from half guard.
(Rd 1 - 07:30) In side control, Gracie begins working to get a mount.
(Rd 1 - 07:30) Kin tries to sweep from the mount attempt but gets rolled and gives up his back.
(Rd 1 - 07:03) Kin finds himself in major trouble, as Gracie applies a tight body triangle.
(Rd 1 - 06:38) With great control via the body triangle, Gracie tries to finish Kin off with a rear naked choke.
(Rd 1 - 06:38) The rear naked choke is fully applied, Gracie has Kin flattened out completely, there is no option but to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 06:00) Gregor Gracie takes the win by submission!

Official Result: Gregor Gracie def. Taiei Kin by Submssion (Rear Naked Choke) in 4:00 of Round 1.

Featherweight Bout
Patricio Freire (8-1) vs. Tie Quan Zhang (6-1)

Moving on, Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire (8-1, 0-1 PRIDE) fights 'The Mongolian Wolf' Tie Quan Zhang (6-1, 0-1 PRIDE).

John McCarthy is the referee for this fight. The judges are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Takenaka Suzu, and Tsutsumi Aki.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fight begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fighters touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:47) The two fighters stand and trade strikes, neither lands a significant blow in the exchange.
(Rd 1 - 09:18) Freire can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then catches Zhang with a right hook.
(Rd 1 - 09:02) Both fighters want to get in close, and they get into a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:02) Freire is the aggressor in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 08:52) Freire is trying to push Zhang so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:52) Freire can't do it though, Zhang defended it well.
(Rd 1 - 08:36) Freire is trying to push Zhang so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:36) Freire does it, Zhang is stuck with his back to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:16) Freire tries to take Zhang down.
(Rd 1 - 08:16) It doesn't work, Zhang defended against it well.
(Rd 1 - 08:16) Zhang remains trapped against the ropes though, and can't seem to get free.
(Rd 1 - 07:58) Freire looks for a takedown by grabbing both his opponent's legs and trying to trip him to the mat.
(Rd 1 - 07:58) It doesn't work, Zhang defended against it well.
(Rd 1 - 07:58) Zhang may have stopped the takedown but he is having less luck getting away from the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 07:41) Freire tries to take Zhang down.
(Rd 1 - 07:41) Zhang blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base.
(Rd 1 - 07:30) Looking for a takedown, Freire drops down and gets hold of a leg. Zhang remains standing on the other foot, leaning against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 07:30) Zhang yanks his leg free and circles out.
(Rd 1 - 06:56) Zhang steps in and works his way to a dominant position in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 06:39) Clinched with Freire, Zhang looks to try and take him down.
(Rd 1 - 06:39) Zhang doesn't get it, Freire blocked any attempt to move him.
(Rd 1 - 06:20) Zhang tries to take Freire down.
(Rd 1 - 06:20) Zhang can't get the takedown as Freire wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 06:08) Freire is looking to muscle Zhang back against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 06:08) Zhang out-wrestles him though.
(Rd 1 - 05:38) With control of the clinch, Zhang tries to complete a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 05:38) It's unsuccessful, Freire maintained a good solid base.
(Rd 1 - 05:25) Zhang ends up being out-wrestled in the grapple; Freire takes control.
(Rd 1 - 05:13) Freire is trying to push Zhang so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 05:13) Zhang out-wrestles him though.
(Rd 1 - 05:01) Freire manages to wrestle his way into a dominant position in the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 04:36) Freire tries to wrestle Zhang backward and up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:36) Zhang ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:16) Freire looks to take Zhang down with a trip.
(Rd 1 - 04:16) The trip doesn't work, Zhang blocked it and then turns it so that Freire is the one against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:46) Zhang drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down.
(Rd 1 - 03:46) He has the takedown! Freire pulls guard.
(Rd 1 - 03:30) Zhang fires off a handful of punches, each easily being blocked with gloves.
(Rd 1 - 03:08) Zhang blocks an attempted sweep.
(Rd 1 - 02:53) Zhang peppers Freire with small strikes, making sure to keep very tight and not give him any room to work with.
(Rd 1 - 02:42) Freire throws out some punches, but Zhang leans back to avoid them.
(Rd 1 - 02:23) Zhang doesn't posture up, perhaps wary of submissions, instead using small strikes while keeping his head on his opponent's chest.
(Rd 1 - 02:08) Freire tries to sweep Zhang but doesn't get anywhere.
(Rd 1 - 01:50) Zhang keeps Freire guessing with a few quick strikes.
(Rd 1 - 01:24) Freire tries to sweep Zhang but doesn't get anywhere.
(Rd 1 - 01:05) Zhang fires off a few punches.
(Rd 1 - 00:43) The lengthy period of stalemate results in the referee standing them both back up.
(Rd 1 - 00:43) Freire is slowing just a little as he starts to get into the gas tank a bit.
(Rd 1 - 00:43) Zhang is starting to slow down a touch, perhaps conserving a little energy.
(Rd 1 - 00:31) Freire closes in on Zhang, looking to unleash some strikes.
(Rd 1 - 00:31) Freire throws a quick punch but doesn't land.
(Rd 1 - 00:21) Freire throws a quick punch but doesn't land.
(Rd 1 - 00:16) Zhang comes in and grabs Freire in a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 00:10) Zhang tries to take Freire down.
(Rd 1 - 00:10) Zhang gets the takedown! Freire pulls half guard.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) The time runs out on round one.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell and the final round begins!
(Rd 2 - 04:48) Freire shoots in for a takedown.
(Rd 2 - 04:48) Freire gets hold of a leg but Zhang remains standing, hopping on the other foot.
(Rd 2 - 04:48) With Zhang not going down, Freire settles for pushing him up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:29) With the ropes trapping Zhang, Freire looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 2 - 04:29) Freire doesn't get it, Zhang blocked any attempt to move him.
(Rd 2 - 04:13) Freire looks to sweep a leg in order to execute a sharp trip.
(Rd 2 - 04:13) Zhang is taken down by a quick inside leg trip, he can do nothing but pull guard!
(Rd 2 - 03:58) Freire begins trying to pass guard and get a better position.
(Rd 2 - 03:58) He passes guard, but Zhang was ready and immediately starts to scramble.
(Rd 2 - 03:45) The scramble results in Zhang being on his back pulling half guard.
(Rd 2 - 03:32) Freire punches down at Zhang, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 2 - 03:05) Freire throws a few right hands, but is mainly trying to catch his breath.
(Rd 2 - 02:48) Freire throws a few right hands, but is mainly trying to catch his breath.
(Rd 2 - 02:31) Zhang tries to transition to full guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 2 - 02:18) Freire throws a few right hands as he takes a moment to plan ahead.
(Rd 2 - 01:56) Freire blocks Zhang as he tries a transition to full guard.
(Rd 2 - 01:37) Freire pounds away, but Zhang isn't troubled by the strikes.
(Rd 2 - 01:22) Freire blocks an attempted move from half guard to full guard.
(Rd 2 - 01:03) With no progress being made, referee John McCarthy stands them back up.
(Rd 2 - 01:03) A little fatigue may be creeping in, Freire is starting to move noticeably more slowly now.
(Rd 2 - 01:03) A few deep breaths betray that Zhang is starting to get into the deeper reaches of his gas tank.
(Rd 2 - 00:50) Freire can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then catches Zhang with a right hook.
(Rd 2 - 00:33) Zhang had looked like he was angling to grapple, but couldn't take the initiative.
(Rd 2 - 00:33) A jab lands from Freire, but leaves himself exposed with a head kick attempt and Zhang capitalises by catching it!
(Rd 2 - 00:18) Freire is looking really tired.
(Rd 2 - 00:18) Holding the leg, Zhang tries for a takedown.
(Rd 2 - 00:18) Freire refuses to be taken down and manages to eventually pull his leg free. He steps away to safety.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The time expires on round two, and that is the end of the fight.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The judges have given their decisions, which are about to be announced.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have Freire down as the winner.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire wins by unanimous decision!

Official Result: Patricio Freire def. Tie Quan Zhang by Unanimous Decision.

Welterweight Bout
Daijiru Matsui (10-21-4) vs. Yuki Sasaki (21-15-1)

Next up, Daijiro Matsui (10-21-4, 5-10-2 PRIDE) battling Yuki Sasaki (21-15-1, 0-3 PRIDE).

The referee is John McCarthy. The judges are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Takenaka Suzu, and Tsutsumi Aki.

There's a roar from the crowd as Sasaki enters, he is from around here.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 09:52) The fighters get in close and clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:52) Sasaki manages to aggressively get a good position in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:44) Sasaki tries to take Matsui down.
(Rd 1 - 09:44) Matsui blocks the takedown attempt and takes control of the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 09:25) Clinched with Sasaki, Matsui looks to try and take him down.
(Rd 1 - 09:25) Matsui doesn't get it, Sasaki blocked any attempt to move him.
(Rd 1 - 09:05) Matsui looks to sweep a leg out from under Sasaki so as to take him down with a trip.
(Rd 1 - 09:05) Matsui can't get the trip, as Sasaki wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 08:45) Sasaki tries to use a trip takedown.
(Rd 1 - 08:45) An excellent outside leg trip sees Matsui get thrown to the mat and Sasaki has no problem getting side control.
(Rd 1 - 08:30) Sasaki throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move.
(Rd 1 - 08:12) Sasaki blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 07:52) Sasaki throws a few strikes, but is clearly slowing things down so that he can catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 07:29) Matsui tries to move to guard, but Sasaki doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 07:18) Sasaki starts trying to work to go from side control to mount.
(Rd 1 - 07:18) He can't quite manage to get to mount on this attempt.
(Rd 1 - 06:55) Sasaki blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 06:36) Sasaki attempts an arm triangle.
(Rd 1 - 06:36) Matsui stops Sasaki from applying it.
(Rd 1 - 06:03) Sasaki blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:52) Sasaki throws a few strikes, but they are without venom.
(Rd 1 - 05:24) With no progress being made, referee John McCarthy stands them back up.
(Rd 1 - 05:17) Sasaki comes in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 05:17) Sasaki couldn't complete the single leg, but does end up standing holding a leg while Matsui hops in place on the other.
(Rd 1 - 05:17) Sasaki uses the position to drive Matsui up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:54) We move into the second half of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:54) With the ropes trapping Matsui, Sasaki looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 1 - 04:54) Sasaki doesn't get the takedown, Matsui instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 04:38) Matsui goes low and comes up holding a single leg, leaving Sasaki hopping and in danger of getting taken down.
(Rd 1 - 04:38) Sasaki gets his leg swept out from under him and ends up under side control!
(Rd 1 - 04:26) Matsui tries to ensnare Sasaki in an armbar.
(Rd 1 - 04:26) Sasaki doesn't allow the armbar to be applied.
(Rd 1 - 04:06) Sasaki tries to pull guard on Matsui but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 03:51) Matsui looks to get a mount.
(Rd 1 - 03:51) Sasaki tries to sweep from the mount attempt but gets rolled and gives up his back.
(Rd 1 - 03:17) Matsui unloads with big rights and lands a few powerful shots.
(Rd 1 - 03:05) Sasaki is in increasing trouble, as Matsui gets both hooks in.
(Rd 1 - 02:52) Matsui pounds away, Sasaki is in big trouble and is definitely rocked!
(Rd 1 - 02:32) Matsui tries to pound on Sasaki, but none of the blows land with any degree of power.
(Rd 1 - 02:12) Sasaki manages to pull free of the hooks, but still has Matsui on his back.
(Rd 1 - 01:54) Matsui fires away with punches, but Sasaki deals with them fairly well.
(Rd 1 - 01:43) Matsui pounds away, but Sasaki calmly deals with them.
(Rd 1 - 01:30) Matsui blocks Sasaki as he tries to roll over.
(Rd 1 - 01:17) Matsui attempts to get a rear naked choke fully applied.
(Rd 1 - 01:17) Sasaki stops Matsui from getting his arm under the chin and completing the choke.
(Rd 1 - 00:42) Matsui is looking really tired.
(Rd 1 - 00:42) Matsui blocks an attempt to roll him off of the back.
(Rd 1 - 00:18) Matsui pounds away with rights but fails to land any significant blows.
(Rd 1 - 00:05) Sasaki tries a roll, but doesn't budge Matsui.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) The time runs out on round one.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell for the start of the final round!
(Rd 2 - 04:48) Seeing his opponent about to shoot in, Matsui timed it well and moved in to start a clinch.
(Rd 2 - 04:28) Matsui tries to take Sasaki down.
(Rd 2 - 04:28) The takedown doesn't work, Sasaki blocked it and then takes control of the grapple.
(Rd 2 - 04:14) Clinched with Matsui, Sasaki looks to try and take him down.
(Rd 2 - 04:14) Matsui blocks the attempt by keeping a solid base.
(Rd 2 - 03:58) Clinched with Matsui, Sasaki looks to try and take him down.
(Rd 2 - 03:58) Matsui cannot stop the takedown and has to pull guard.
(Rd 2 - 03:41) Sasaki pounds away, but Matsui isn't troubled by the strikes.
(Rd 2 - 03:41) The attack does see Sasaki get pushed away though, right out of guard, and he is now standing.
(Rd 2 - 03:21) On his back, Matsui watches as Sasaki comes in looking to get a dominant ground position.
(Rd 2 - 03:21) Sasaki doesn't get any further than being in guard.
(Rd 2 - 03:05) Sasaki fires off some strikes but doesn't do any significant damage.
(Rd 2 - 03:05) Sasaki gets pushed back, and is left standing in front of Matsui, no longer in guard.
(Rd 2 - 02:52) Sasaki tries to secure a ground position.
(Rd 2 - 02:52) Sasaki almost sneaks around, but Matsui ultimately holds him in guard.
(Rd 2 - 02:36) In guard, Sasaki throws a couple of punches designed to keep Matsui guessing.
(Rd 2 - 02:20) Sasaki begins trying to pass the guard.
(Rd 2 - 02:20) He passes the guard well, gaining side control.
(Rd 2 - 01:45) In side control, Sasaki throws a couple of punches designed to keep Matsui guessing.
(Rd 2 - 01:26) Matsui tries to pull guard on Sasaki but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 2 - 01:11) Sasaki starts trying to work to go from side control to mount.
(Rd 2 - 01:11) He does it, and has the mount on Matsui.
(Rd 2 - 00:34) Sasaki is looking really tired.
(Rd 2 - 00:34) Sasaki attempts to set up an armbar on Matsui from the mount.
(Rd 2 - 00:34) The armbar is locked in, tight enough that Matsui has to tap out!
(Rd 2 - 00:14) Yuki Sasaki takes the win by submission!

Official Result: Yuki Sasaki def. Daijiro Matsui by Submission (Armbar) in 4:46 of Round 2.

Featherweight Bout
Tatsuya Kawajiri (19-8-2) vs. Masakazu Imanari (12-7-2)

Another match is about to begin; Tatsuya 'The Crusher' Kawajiri (19-8-2, 4-6 PRIDE) squaring off with 'Ashikan Judan' Masakazu Imanari (12-7-2, 1-4 PRIDE).

Refereeing this bout will be John McCarthy. The judges are: Konishi Bunzo, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Takenaka Suzu.

The crowd are buzzing during the entrances, this is a battle between two local fighters.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell!
(Rd 1 - 09:47) There's a takedown attempt from Imanari.
(Rd 1 - 09:47) Kawajiri sprawls well, preventing the takedown, and then moves out of range.
(Rd 1 - 09:20) Up close, they start wrestling.
(Rd 1 - 09:20) Imanari aggressively gets to a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 09:10) Imanari tries to take Kawajiri down.
(Rd 1 - 09:10) Imanari doesn't get the takedown, Kawajiri instead wrestles his way into controlling the grapple.
(Rd 1 - 08:45) Kawajiri uses a nice knee strike from the grapple and catches Imanari to the side of the stomach.
(Rd 1 - 08:28) Using his wrestling skills, Kawajiri is trying to push Imanari up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:28) Kawajiri manages it and controls Imanari up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:15) Kawajiri looks for a takedown by grabbing both his opponent's legs and trying to trip him to the mat.
(Rd 1 - 08:15) Imanari cannot stop the takedown and has to pull half guard.
(Rd 1 - 07:57) In half guard, Kawajiri throws a couple of punches designed to keep Imanari guessing.
(Rd 1 - 07:37) Kawajiri throws a few right hands to the body.
(Rd 1 - 07:16) Kawajiri is trying to get out of half guard and into a better position.
(Rd 1 - 07:16) The pass attempt results in a scramble for position as Imanari tries to get back up.
(Rd 1 - 07:03) Kawajiri ends up holding a waist-lock behind Imanari, who is kneeling.
(Rd 1 - 06:45) Kawajiri pounds away with punches but can't quite land anything with any power.
(Rd 1 - 06:30) Kawajiri fires away and manages to connect with two or three heavy shots that rock Imanari!
(Rd 1 - 06:14) Kawajiri pounds away with right hands, hitting several big shots.
(Rd 1 - 05:57) Kawajiri pounds away with rights but fails to land any significant blows.
(Rd 1 - 05:38) Imanari takes the opportunity to stand up, albeit under back control.
(Rd 1 - 05:27) Kawajiri looks to try and push Imanari up against the cage, but his resistance is too stubborn.
(Rd 1 - 05:07) Showing good tenacity, Imanari breaks free of back control and gets back to the center.
(Rd 1 - 04:55) We go past the halfway point of this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:41) Kawajiri throws a punch but Imanari avoids it.
(Rd 1 - 04:24) Imanari chooses to shoot in on Kawajiri.
(Rd 1 - 04:24) Kawajiri sprawls well, preventing the takedown, and then moves out of range.
(Rd 1 - 03:56) They clinch up and start jockeying for position.
(Rd 1 - 03:56) Imanari looks like he has gotten the better of the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 03:46) Imanari tries to use a trip takedown.
(Rd 1 - 03:46) Kawajiri has no answer to a slick trip, he is left down under side control!
(Rd 1 - 03:33) Imanari tries to lock Kawajiri into a kimura.
(Rd 1 - 03:33) Imanari gets a kimura, he twists the arm backwards at a painful angle!
(Rd 1 - 03:33) Imanari loses the hold! Somehow Kawajiri got his arm free. That was incredibly close to a finish though.
(Rd 1 - 03:33) Kawajiri remains stuck under side control though.
(Rd 1 - 03:15) Imanari blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 02:55) In side control, Imanari throws a couple of punches designed to keep Kawajiri guessing.
(Rd 1 - 02:39) Imanari blocks Kawajiri as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 1 - 02:20) Imanari tries to ensnare Kawajiri in a kimura.
(Rd 1 - 02:20) Imanari gets the kimura fully applied and Kawajiri has to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 01:56) The winner, by submission, is 'Ashikan Judan' Masakazu Imanari!

Official Result: Masakazu Imanari def. Tatsuya Kawajiri by Submission (Kimura) in 8:04 of Round 1.

Heavyweight Bout
Kazuyuki Fujita (15-8) vs. Ricco Rodriguez (26-8)

Moving on, 'Ol' Ironhead' Kazuyuki Fujita (15-8, 8-6 PRIDE) takes on Ricco 'Suave' Rodriguez (26-8, 3-2 PRIDE).

Our referee is Yuji Shimada. Our judges are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Takenaka Suzu, and Tsutsumi Aki.

Fujita is fighting in front of a home crowd tonight, and gets a big cheer as he makes his entrance.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) They start with a touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:46) Fujita steps in and works his way to a dominant position in the clinch.
(Rd 1 - 09:28) Fujita is trying to muscle Rodriguez up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:28) Fujita manages it and controls Rodriguez up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:10) Fujita looks for a takedown by grabbing both his opponent's legs and trying to trip him to the mat.
(Rd 1 - 09:10) The takedown is completed, Fujita would not be denied.
(Rd 1 - 09:10) Fujita takes the back off the takedown.
(Rd 1 - 08:57) Fujita gets both hooks in, and is now in a really dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 08:43) Fujita pounds away with right hands, but doesn't do much damage.
(Rd 1 - 08:31) Rodriguez struggles against Fujita and manages to free himself from the hooks.
(Rd 1 - 08:19) Fujita increases his control by getting both hooks in.
(Rd 1 - 07:56) Fujita pounds away, Rodriguez is in big trouble and is definitely rocked!
(Rd 1 - 07:42) Fujita pounds away, landing several great shots that rock Rodriguez!
(Rd 1 - 07:30) Fujita fires away with punches, but Rodriguez doesn't take any undue damage.
(Rd 1 - 07:10) Rodriguez struggles against Fujita and manages to free himself from the hooks.
(Rd 1 - 06:55) Fujita pounds away with rights, but Rodriguez covers up and only a couple manage to get through.
(Rd 1 - 06:38) Rodriguez is in huge trouble now, as Fujita successfully gets both hooks in.
(Rd 1 - 06:14) Fujita pounds away with right hands, but doesn't do much damage.
(Rd 1 - 05:56) Fujita loses both hooks, but still has the back.
(Rd 1 - 05:40) Fujita tries to get both hooks in, but can't quite manage it.
(Rd 1 - 05:28) Rodriguez tries a roll, but doesn't budge Fujita.
(Rd 1 - 05:15) Fujita pounds away, but Rodriguez isn't troubled by the strikes.
(Rd 1 - 04:59) Rodriguez tries a roll, but doesn't budge Fujita.
(Rd 1 - 04:47) Fujita tries to pound on Rodriguez, but all the blows are comfortably dealt with.
(Rd 1 - 04:35) Rodriguez tries to move Fujita off his back but can't.
(Rd 1 - 04:17) With no progress being made, the referee brings the fighters back to their feet.
(Rd 1 - 04:17) Taking a few gulps of breath, Fujita is giving the first hint that he is starting to tire a touch.
(Rd 1 - 04:08) Fujita fails to find a home for his jab, but then catches Rodriguez with a right hook.
(Rd 1 - 03:56) Rodriguez looked like he was going to shoot, but Fujita simply took the initiative first.
(Rd 1 - 03:56) Fujita can't connect with a jab, but then catches Rodriguez with a right hook.
(Rd 1 - 03:39) Rodriguez looked like he was going to shoot, but Fujita simply took the initiative first.
(Rd 1 - 03:39) Fujita throws a quick punch but doesn't land.
(Rd 1 - 03:33) Fujita is starting to have to push himself now, and his corner respond by urging him on a little louder.
(Rd 1 - 03:28) Rodriguez had looked like he was angling for a takedown attempt, but couldn't take the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 03:28) Fujita fails to find a home for his jab, but then scores with a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 03:10) There's a takedown attempt from Rodriguez.
(Rd 1 - 03:10) The takedown is completed, Fujita is on his back and pulls guard.
(Rd 1 - 03:04) Rodriguez pounds away, landing several clean blows on Fujita in the process.
(Rd 1 - 02:46) Rodriguez looks to pass guard and get side control.
(Rd 1 - 02:46) He passes the guard well, gaining side control.
(Rd 1 - 01:59) Rodriguez looks to get a mount.
(Rd 1 - 01:59) He is too good for Fujita, and has mount.
(Rd 1 - 01:29) Rodriguez pounds away, Fujita is taking heavy shot after heavy shot!
(Rd 1 - 01:29) The referee jumps in and stops the fight as Fujita went limp!
(Rd 1 - 01:11) Ricco 'Suave' Rodriguez takes the win by knock out!

Official Result: Ricco Rodriguez def. Kazuyuki Fujita by KO (Punch) in 8:49 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout
Kazuhiro Nakamura (12-6) vs. Emanuel Newton (12-4-1)

In the last of the preliminary fights, Kazuhiro 'Kaz' Nakamura (12-6, 11-6 PRIDE) battles 'The Hardcore Kid' Emanuel Newton (12-4-1, 2-1 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Middleweight division.

Our referee is John McCarthy.The judges are: Tetsuzan Watoga, Konishi Bunzo, and Tsumemasa Kawakami.

The fighters both weighed in at 205lbs yesterday, but now that they're about to fight it is obvious that Newton is much bigger.

About to fight in front of a home crowd, Nakamura unsurprisingly gets a loud ovation from the crowd as he makes his entrance.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We start with a touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:50) Nakamura uses a left jab, but misses with a vicious right hand.
(Rd 1 - 09:31) There's an exchange of strikes at relatively close range but nothing really lands.
(Rd 1 - 09:01) There's a takedown attempt from Newton.
(Rd 1 - 09:01) Newton couldn't complete the single leg, but does end up standing holding a leg while Nakamura hops in place on the other.
(Rd 1 - 09:01) Newton uses the position to drive Nakamura up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:38) Newton tries to take Nakamura down.
(Rd 1 - 08:38) The takedown doesn't work, Nakamura blocked it and then turns it so that Newton is the one against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:26) Nakamura attempts to set up a judo-based throw to take Newton to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 08:26) The throw doesn't work, Newton blocked it and then turns it so that Nakamura is the one against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:13) Newton tries to take Nakamura down.
(Rd 1 - 08:13) Newton can't get the takedown as Nakamura wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 07:43) Nakamura attempts to set up a judo-based throw to take Newton to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 07:43) Nakamura can't get the throw, as Newton wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 1 - 07:21) Looking for a takedown, Newton drops down and gets hold of a leg. Nakamura remains standing on the other foot, leaning against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 07:21) Newton cannot get a takedown though, Nakamura blocked it and manages to pull him back into a clinch against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 07:04) Newton attempts a trip to put Nakamura on the ground.
(Rd 1 - 07:04) Nakamura has no answer to a great trip!
(Rd 1 - 07:04) Nakamura gives up his back.
(Rd 1 - 06:48) Newton tries to put Nakamura in a rear naked choke.
(Rd 1 - 06:48) Nakamura fights off the rear naked choke attempt.
(Rd 1 - 06:17) Nakamura tries a roll, but doesn't budge Newton.
(Rd 1 - 06:01) Newton tries to finish Nakamura off with a rear naked choke.
(Rd 1 - 06:01) The rear naked choke is fully applied, Newton has Nakamura flattened out completely, there is no option but to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 05:23) The winner, by submission; Emanuel Newton!

Official Result: Emanuel Newton def. Kazuhiro Nakamura by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 5:23 of Round 1.

Main Card

Welterweight Bout
Paul Daley (16-7-2) vs. Jorge Santiago (16-8)

Our first main fight is up next, in which Paul 'Semtex' Daley (16-7-2, 2-0 PRIDE) competes against Jorge Santiago (16-8, 3-0 PRIDE).

John McCarthy will be the referee. Our judges are: Tsutsumi Aki, Tetsuzan Watoga, and Konishi Bunzo.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We start with a touch of gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:48) An exchange of strikes sees both fighters fail to land anything significant.
(Rd 1 - 09:21) Daley fails to find a home for his jab, but then hits a nice straight right that lands hard.
(Rd 1 - 09:05) Daley can't hit a set-up left jab, but then hits Santiago with a beauty of a straight right.
(Rd 1 - 08:56) Daley stalks forward, pressuring Santiago.
(Rd 1 - 08:56) Daley steps into the pocket, showing little fear of Santiago.
(Rd 1 - 08:56) Daley can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then he hits Santiago with a beauty of a straight right.
(Rd 1 - 08:44) Daley steps in and looks to unleash.
(Rd 1 - 08:44) Santiago scores with a weak, flicked left hand jab.
(Rd 1 - 08:44) Daley can't connect with a jab, but then hits a crunching straight right to the jaw!
(Rd 1 - 08:44) Santiago is out! It's all over!
(Rd 1 - 08:41) Paul 'Semtex' Daley takes the win by knock out!

Official Result: Paul Daley def. Jorge Santiago by KO (Punch) in 1:19 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout
Vitor Belfort (18-9) vs. Ikuhisa Minowa (37-27-8)

Another match is about to begin; Vitor 'The Phenom' Belfort (18-9, 8-4 PRIDE) against 'Minowaman' Ikuhisa Minowa (37-27-8, 11-10 PRIDE).

The referee is Yuji Shimada. The judges for this bout are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Takenaka Suzu, and Tsutsumi Aki.

Although they weighed in the same, it's noticeable that Belfort looks a lot heavier than his opponent now.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The two fighters touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:55) Belfort can't connect with a jab, but then hits a fast high left kick to the side of the head.
(Rd 1 - 09:42) Minowa backs off and covers up...he is dazed! Belfort comes forward, he knows that this is a chance for victory! Minowa is trapped against the ropes with nowhere to go!
(Rd 1 - 09:42) Belfort lands a crunching head kick on Minowa, who collapses! He's out cold!
(Rd 1 - 09:27) Vitor 'The Phenom' Belfort takes the win by knock out!

Official Result: Vitor Belfort def. Ikuhisa Minowa by KO Head Kick) in 0:33 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout
Hector Lombard (13-2) vs. Jose Landi-Jons (25-12)

Moving on, Hector Lombard (13-2, 2-2 PRIDE) competes against 'Pelé' Jose Landi-Jons (25-12, 1-2 PRIDE).

Refereeing this bout will be Mario Yamasaki. The judges for this bout are: Tsumemasa Kawakami, Takenaka Suzu, and Tsutsumi Aki.

Lombard may have weighed in the same as Landi-Jons yesterday, but he clearly has a significant size advantage now.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Lombard doesn't touch gloves, drawing some heat from the crowd.
(Rd 1 - 09:55) Landi-Jons cooly stalks Lombard so that he is trapped in the corner.
(Rd 1 - 09:55) Lombard fires off a counter jab.
(Rd 1 - 09:55) A jab is wide from Landi-Jons, but then he hits a scything kick to the legs of Lombard.
(Rd 1 - 09:35) The two fighters come together and strike but it's really tentative and nothing comes of it.
(Rd 1 - 09:06) Landi-Jons closes the distance, obviously looking to strike.
(Rd 1 - 09:06) A defensive jab hits from Lombard.
(Rd 1 - 09:06) Landi-Jons can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then hits Lombard with a beauty of a straight right.
(Rd 1 - 09:06) From the looks of it, that shot may have smashed the jaw of Lombard.
(Rd 1 - 08:39) There's a takedown attempt from Lombard.
(Rd 1 - 08:39) Landi-Jons almost stops the takedown but is left hopping on one leg while Lombard holds the other.
(Rd 1 - 08:39) Lombard can't get Landi-Jons down and so settles for pushing him up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:28) With Landi-Jons stuck against the ropes, Lombard tries to set up a judo-style throw.
(Rd 1 - 08:28) An excellent outside leg trip sees Landi-Jons get thrown to the mat and Lombard has no problem getting side control.
(Rd 1 - 08:13) Lombard starts trying to work to go from side control to mount.
(Rd 1 - 08:13) Landi-Jons keeps Lombard from mounting him.
(Rd 1 - 07:20) Lombard attempts to move to mount.
(Rd 1 - 07:20) He can't get the mount as Landi-Jons rolls away to stop it, but does take his back instead.
(Rd 1 - 06:48) Landi-Jons is in huge trouble now, as Lombard successfully gets both hooks in.
(Rd 1 - 06:25) Lombard, with both hooks fully in, tries to get the rear naked choke applied.
(Rd 1 - 06:25) Landi-Jons doesn't allow the rear naked choke to be applied.
(Rd 1 - 05:55) Lombard keeps both hooks, despite Landi-Jons trying to pull them apart.
(Rd 1 - 05:35) Lombard pounds away and Landi-Jons is having serious difficulty surviving them!
(Rd 1 - 05:15) Lombard pounds away with right hands, Landi-Jons is getting smashed!
(Rd 1 - 05:15) Referee Mario Yamasaki jumps in and pulls Lombard away!
(Rd 1 - 05:03) Hector Lombard takes the win by TKO!

Official Result: Hector Lombard def. Jose Landi-Jons by TKO (Strikes) in 4:57 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout
Renato Sobral (31-10) vs. Yoshihiro Akiyama (12-2-1 NC)

Next up, Renato 'Babalu' Sobral (31-10, 1-2 PRIDE) taking on Yoshihiro 'Sexyama' Akiyama (12-2-1 NC, 3-1 PRIDE).

Mario Yamasaki will be the referee. The judges for this bout are: Tsutsumi Aki, Tetsuzan Watoga, and Konishi Bunzo.

The weight difference here is obvious, as Sexyama must be giving up at least 30lbs to his opponent.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) Round one begins!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fighters touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:48) Sobral hits a left hand, but his big right hand follow-up misses.
(Rd 1 - 09:39) Sexyama gets hold of Sobral without taking too much damage.
(Rd 1 - 09:30) Sexyama is trying to push Sobral so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:30) Sobral out-wrestles him though.
(Rd 1 - 09:02) Sobral is trying to push Sexyama so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:02) He does so and now has Sexyama pinned to the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:46) Sobral, looking for a takedown, manages to secure a leg, leaving Sexyama hopping on one foot.
(Rd 1 - 08:46) Sobral smartly sweeps the standing leg and gets side control!.
(Rd 1 - 08:28) Sobral starts trying to work to go from side control to mount.
(Rd 1 - 08:28) Sexyama doesn't let Sobral get the mount, and so he remains at side control.
(Rd 1 - 07:52) Sobral blocks Sexyama as he tries a transition to guard.
(Rd 1 - 07:32) Sobral throws a few right hands to the body.
(Rd 1 - 07:05) Sexyama tries to pull guard on Sobral but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 06:51) Sobral tries to get into the mount position.
(Rd 1 - 06:51) The attempted mount results in a scramble for position as Sexyama tries to avoid the danger.
(Rd 1 - 06:39) The scramble sees Sobral up first, and he is quick to wrestle Sexyama up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 06:25) Sobral smothers Sexyama against the ropes and stomps down on his foot.
(Rd 1 - 06:15) Sobral tries to take Sexyama down.
(Rd 1 - 06:15) Sobral gets the takedown! Sexyama pulls guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:56) Sobral is trying to pass guard.
(Rd 1 - 05:56) Sexyama fights the attempt off, and they wind up scrambling for position.
(Rd 1 - 05:44) Neither fighter manages to impose himself in the scramble, and they both end up standing.
(Rd 1 - 05:20) Sexyama fails to find a home for his jab, but then scores with a right cross.
(Rd 1 - 05:02) Both fighters seem to have the same idea and come together in a clinch.
(Rd 1 - 05:02) Sexyama is the aggressor.
(Rd 1 - 04:54) We've now passed the halfway mark in this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:54) From the grapple, Sexyama tries to pick Sobral up on his shoulder for a slam.
(Rd 1 - 04:54) He can't get it though, Sobral defends it and pulls away from the grapple entirely.
(Rd 1 - 04:29) Coming forward, Sexyama is willing to take some hits if it means being able to get close enough to grapple.
(Rd 1 - 04:29) Sobral throws two quick punches but doesn't hit with either.
(Rd 1 - 04:16) Sexyama gets hold of Sobral, not having to have taken even one shot while coming in.
(Rd 1 - 04:07) Sexyama tries to knee Sobral, but gets blocked.
(Rd 1 - 03:51) Sobral is trying to muscle Sexyama up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:51) Sobral manages it and controls Sexyama up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 03:35) With Sexyama stuck against the ropes, Sobral tries to complete a takedown by going low and grabbing both legs.
(Rd 1 - 03:35) It doesn't work, Sexyama defended against it well.
(Rd 1 - 03:35) Sexyama can't seem to work his way free though.
(Rd 1 - 03:23) With the ropes trapping Sexyama, Sobral looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 1 - 03:23) It doesn't work, Sexyama defended against it well.
(Rd 1 - 03:08) Sobral drops down and wraps his arms around his opponent's legs, looking to try and take them down.
(Rd 1 - 03:08) Sobral can't get Sexyama down to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 03:08) Sexyama is still stuck against the ropes however.
(Rd 1 - 02:50) With the ropes trapping Sexyama, Sobral looks for a trip takedown.
(Rd 1 - 02:50) An outside leg trip sweeps Sexyama down to the ground where he is left on his back under side control!
(Rd 1 - 02:33) Sobral fires off a few punches, but they aren't thrown with any great force.
(Rd 1 - 02:08) Sexyama tries to transition to a guard, but can't manage it.
(Rd 1 - 01:53) Sobral throws a few weak-looking punches as he decides on his next move.
(Rd 1 - 01:26) Sexyama tries to move to guard, but Sobral doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 01:15) Sobral throws a few strikes, but is clearly slowing things down so that he can catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 00:51) The end of the round is coming quick, there's under a minute left.
(Rd 1 - 00:51) Sobral throws a few right hands to the body.
(Rd 1 - 00:21) Sobral blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 00:02) Sobral pounds away but is unable to inflict much damage on Sexyama.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) Time expires and we come to the end of round one.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) There's the bell and the final round begins!
(Rd 2 - 04:49) Sexyama may have been setting up to shoot, but Sobral aggressively took the initiative.
(Rd 2 - 04:49) Sobral connects with a jab, but Sexyama evades a big right punch.
(Rd 2 - 04:28) Sobral steps in, seemingly willing to take strikes if it means getting close enough to wrestle.
(Rd 2 - 04:28) Sexyama can't connect with his set-up strikes, but then scores with a right cross.
(Rd 2 - 04:23) Sobral gets hold of Sexyama.
(Rd 2 - 04:17) Sobral gets out-wrestled in the grapple and Sexyama takes control.
(Rd 2 - 03:52) Sexyama is trying to push Sobral so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 03:52) Sexyama doesn't manage it though, Sobral defended it well.
(Rd 2 - 03:32) Sexyama tries to wrestle Sobral backward and up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 03:32) Sexyama can't move Sobral at all though, and finds himself being out-wrestled.
(Rd 2 - 03:20) Sobral uses a nice knee strike from the grapple and catches Sexyama to the side of the stomach.
(Rd 2 - 03:09) Sobral tries to wrestle Sexyama backward and up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 03:09) Sexyama doesn't let himself be driven back though, and gains a dominant position in the grapple instead.
(Rd 2 - 02:48) Sexyama tries to knee Sobral, but gets blocked.
(Rd 2 - 02:29) We go past the halfway point of this round.
(Rd 2 - 02:29) Sexyama is looking to muscle Sobral back against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 02:29) He does so and now has Sobral pinned to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 02:16) Sexyama looks to set up a judo throw.
(Rd 2 - 02:16) Sexyama uses a nice inside leg trip and Sobral is forced to pull guard!
(Rd 2 - 02:03) Sobral doesn't look like he has much left in the tank.
(Rd 2 - 02:03) Sexyama punches down at Sobral, but they are easily taken on the gloves.
(Rd 2 - 01:45) Sobral tries to get double underhooks on Sexyama so that he can get some control, but can't get them.
(Rd 2 - 01:39) Sexyama tries to pound on Sobral, but all the blows are comfortably dealt with.
(Rd 2 - 01:22) Sobral tries to pull Sexyama in close and smother him, but doesn't get anywhere with it.
(Rd 2 - 01:14) Sexyama fires off a few punches.
(Rd 2 - 00:48) Sexyama gets pulled in tight, stopping him from posturing up or launching any attacks.
(Rd 2 - 00:15) Sexyama fires away with punches, but does little in the way of damage.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The fight comes to an end as the time limit expires.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The ring announcer is now giving the official decisions.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have given Sobral the win.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The winner, by unanimous decision, is Renato 'Babalu' Sobral!

Official Result: Renato Sobral def. Yoshihiro Akiyama by Unanimous Decision.

Welterweight Bout
Ronaldo Souza (8-1) vs. Murilo Bustamante (16-8-1)

Moving on to the next match, in which Ronaldo 'Jacare' Souza (8-1, 3-0 PRIDE) competes against Murilo Bustamante (16-8-1, 6-7 PRIDE).

The referee is John McCarthy. The judges for this bout are: Takenaka Suzu, Tsutsumi Aki, and Tetsuzan Watoga.

Round 1

(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) They touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:54) Souza scores with two weak, flicked left hand jabs.
(Rd 1 - 09:54) Bustamante throws a quick one-two but doesn't land either blow.
(Rd 1 - 09:31) The fighters go toe-to-toe with strikes but the flurry ends without any really damaging shots landing.
(Rd 1 - 09:02) Souza comes in, apparently willing to take some hits if it means getting close enough to grapple.
(Rd 1 - 09:02) A one-two from Bustamante fails to land.
(Rd 1 - 08:52) Souza is able to grab Bustamante.
(Rd 1 - 08:42) Souza is trying to push Bustamante so that his back is up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:42) Bustamante ends up backed against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 08:28) Souza looks to sweep a leg in order to execute a sharp trip.
(Rd 1 - 08:28) An excellent outside leg trip sees Bustamante get thrown to the mat!
(Rd 1 - 08:28) Souza takes the back off the takedown.
(Rd 1 - 08:06) Souza fires away and Bustamante is clearly hurt by a couple of nasty looking punches.
(Rd 1 - 07:50) Souza pounds away with rights but fails to land any significant blows.
(Rd 1 - 07:38) Bustamante tries to turn over and sweep Souza but can't do it.
(Rd 1 - 07:25) Bustamante gets into an even worse position as Souza applies a body triangle.
(Rd 1 - 07:08) With the body triangle on tight, Souza tries to flatten Bustamante out for the rear naked choke.
(Rd 1 - 07:08) Souza flattens Bustamante out with the rear naked choke in deep and forces the tap!
(Rd 1 - 06:46) Ronaldo Souza takes the victory by way of submission!

Official Result: Ronaldo Souza def. Murilo Bustamante by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 6:46 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout
Glover Teixeira (8-2) vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (16-3)

Moving on to the next match, in which Glover Teixeira (8-2, 3-0 PRIDE) takes on Antonio 'Minotouro' Rogerio Nogueira (16-3, 12-2 PRIDE).

The referee is John McCarthy. Our judges at ringside are: Konishi Bunzo, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Takenaka Suzu.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) And here we go!
(Rd 1 - 09:47) Nogueira throws an attempted hook to the body but doesn't connect.
(Rd 1 - 09:37) Glover gets hold of Nogueira.
(Rd 1 - 09:27) Using his wrestling skills, Glover is trying to push Nogueira up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:27) Glover manages it and controls Nogueira up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:13) With the ropes trapping Nogueira, Glover looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 1 - 09:13) He gets a big takedown and he manages to get side control as a result.
(Rd 1 - 08:57) Glover fires away with punches, but Nogueira doesn't take any undue damage.
(Rd 1 - 08:44) Nogueira tries to move to guard, but Glover doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 08:26) Glover tries to lock Nogueira into an armbar.
(Rd 1 - 08:26) Nogueira fights off the armbar attempt.
(Rd 1 - 08:01) Nogueira tries to pull guard on Glover but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 07:44) Glover tries to lock Nogueira in an armbar.
(Rd 1 - 07:44) Nogueira stops Glover from applying it.
(Rd 1 - 07:18) Nogueira tries to pull guard on Glover but doesn't get anywhere with the attempt.
(Rd 1 - 07:06) Glover fires off some rights, but Nogueira isn't troubled by them.
(Rd 1 - 06:55) Nogueira tries to move to guard, but Glover doesn't allow it.
(Rd 1 - 06:43) With no progress being made, the referee stands them back up.
(Rd 1 - 06:32) Nogueira comes forward looking to force a striking exchange.
(Rd 1 - 06:32) Glover hits a pair of jabs in the exchange.
(Rd 1 - 06:32) Nogueira uses a left jab but a big right to the body fails to find the target.
(Rd 1 - 06:16) Nogueira moves forward, constantly trying to pressure Glover into exchanging strikes.
(Rd 1 - 06:16) Nogueira moves into the pocket.
(Rd 1 - 06:16) Nogueira lands a left jab but can't connect with a right to the body.
(Rd 1 - 05:55) Glover hits a tentative left hand.
(Rd 1 - 05:55) A one-two from Nogueira fails to land.
(Rd 1 - 05:38) Nogueira throws a two-punch combo but Glover avoids both.
(Rd 1 - 05:24) Glover takes the chance and shoots on Nogueira.
(Rd 1 - 05:16) Glover couldn't complete the single leg, but does end up standing holding a leg while Nogueira hops in place on the other.
(Rd 1 - 05:16) Glover can't get Nogueira down and so settles for pushing him up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 04:54) We are now at the halfway point of the round.
(Rd 1 - 04:54) Glover tries to take Nogueira down.
(Rd 1 - 04:54) Glover can't get Nogueira down to the ground.
(Rd 1 - 04:43) With the ropes trapping Nogueira, Glover looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 1 - 04:43) He has the takedown! Nogueira pulls half guard.
(Rd 1 - 04:24) Glover throws some small strikes, but is clearly just taking a moment to try and catch his breath.
(Rd 1 - 04:07) Glover is trying to get out of half guard and into a better position.
(Rd 1 - 04:07) Nogueira fights the attempt off, and they wind up scrambling for position.
(Rd 1 - 03:53) Glover ends up in side control.
(Rd 1 - 03:40) Glover unloads with big rights and Nogueira is getting rocked!
(Rd 1 - 03:40) Nogueira turns and gives up his back in a desperate effort to avoid the strikes!
(Rd 1 - 03:20) Glover attempts to complete a rear naked choke.
(Rd 1 - 03:20) Nogueira doesn't allow the rear naked choke to be applied.
(Rd 1 - 02:56) Nogueira tries to turn over and sweep Glover but can't do it.
(Rd 1 - 02:32) Glover tries to get a body triangle applied but can't quite manage it.
(Rd 1 - 02:20) Nogueira tries a roll, but doesn't budge Glover.
(Rd 1 - 02:06) Glover successfully gets both hooks in, and seems primed to finish.
(Rd 1 - 01:46) Glover attempts to complete a rear naked choke, having both hooks fully in.
(Rd 1 - 01:46) Glover flattens Nogueira out with the rear naked choke in deep and forces the tap!
(Rd 1 - 01:16) By submission, the winner is Glover Teixeira!

Official Result: Glover Teixeira def. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 8:44 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout
Carlos Condit (22-4) vs. Yuki Kondo (49-20-6)

The co-main event is up next. 'The Natural Born Killer' Carlos Condit (22-4, 2-0 PRIDE) goes up against Yuki Kondo (49-20-6, 4-7 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Welterweight division.

Refereeing this bout will be Yuji Shimada. The judges are: Tsutsumi Aki, Tetsuzan Watoga, and Konishi Bunzo.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) We are underway!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The two fighters touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:46) A jab hits home from Condit and then he scores with a right cross that landed hard.
(Rd 1 - 09:26) Condit steps in and looks to unleash.
(Rd 1 - 09:26) Condit connects with a jab, but his big right hand follow-up misses.
(Rd 1 - 09:05) A jab is wide from Condit, but then he hits a body kick.
(Rd 1 - 08:49) The two combatants meet in the center and start to strike.
(Rd 1 - 08:49) Condit slips past a right hook attempt and attacks with a left kick to the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 08:17) Condit comes forward and the two fighters exchange strikes.
(Rd 1 - 08:17) Kondo lands a left hand in the exchange.
(Rd 1 - 08:17) A jab hits home from Condit and then he catches Kondo with a low kick to the front leg.
(Rd 1 - 07:55) Kondo may have been aiming to get in close, but Condit aggressively took the initiative.
(Rd 1 - 07:55) Condit hits a left jab and then lands a spinning back kick to the chest.
(Rd 1 - 07:33) Condit lands a jab and then catches Kondo with a low kick to the front leg.
(Rd 1 - 07:08) Condit fails to find a home for his jab, but then catches Kondo with a right roundhouse kick to the body.
(Rd 1 - 06:46) Condit can't connect with a jab, but then scores with a right cross that landed hard.
(Rd 1 - 06:30) Condit connects with a jab, but a spin kick is telegraphed and easily caught by Kondo!
(Rd 1 - 06:19) Seizing his chance, Kondo attempts a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 06:19) Kondo gets the takedown! Condit pulls guard.
(Rd 1 - 06:19) Condit grabbed a guillotine off the takedown though; Kondo is now the one in trouble!
(Rd 1 - 05:59) Kondo gets free of the guillotine, Condit didn't have it locked in tight enough.
(Rd 1 - 05:34) Perhaps looking to create space for a leglock, Kondo tries to break the guard apart.
(Rd 1 - 05:34) Condit keeps his guard tight.
(Rd 1 - 05:07) Condit wants to move to rubber guard mission control, but Kondo keeps him at bay.
(Rd 1 - 04:49) Perhaps looking to create space for a leglock, Kondo tries to break the guard apart.
(Rd 1 - 04:49) Condit blocks it by keeping his guard secure.
(Rd 1 - 04:31) Condit tries to ensnare an arm.
(Rd 1 - 04:31) Kondo gets caught in an armbar...and has no choice but to tap out!
(Rd 1 - 03:51) By submission, the winner is Carlos Condit!

Official Result: Carlos Condit def. Yuki Kondo by Submission (Armbar) in 6:09 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout
Ricardo Arona (16-5) vs. Kiyoshi Tamura (33-15-3)

It's time for the main event of the evening! 'The Brazilian Tiger' Ricardo Arona (16-5, 11-4 PRIDE) competes against Kiyoshi Tamura (33-15-3, 7-6 PRIDE) in the PRIDE Middleweight division.

Yuji Shimada will be the referee. Our ringside judges are: Konishi Bunzo, Tsumemasa Kawakami, and Takenaka Suzu.

Round 1
(Rd 1 - 10:00) There's the opening bell!
(Rd 1 - 10:00) The fighters touch gloves.
(Rd 1 - 09:54) Tamura throws a quick one-two but doesn't land either blow.
(Rd 1 - 09:44) Arona takes the chance and shoots on Tamura.
(Rd 1 - 09:35) Tamura almost got away but not quite; he is left hopping while Arona has hold of one leg.
(Rd 1 - 09:35) Arona uses the position to drive Tamura up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 09:21) Arona looks to set up a trip takedown.
(Rd 1 - 09:21) An outside leg trip sweeps Tamura down to the ground where he is left on his back pulling half guard!
(Rd 1 - 09:08) Arona fires off a few punches as he catches his breath.
(Rd 1 - 08:41) Arona fires off a few punches, but they aren't thrown with any great force.
(Rd 1 - 08:24) Arona fires off a few punches, but they aren't thrown with any great force.
(Rd 1 - 08:08) Tamura uses an underhook to work some separation, then quickly scrambles.
(Rd 1 - 08:08) There wasn't enough separation though, Arona is able to catch him and secure side control.
(Rd 1 - 07:44) Arona is trying to move from side control to mount.
(Rd 1 - 07:44) He can't mount Tamura.
(Rd 1 - 07:03) Arona blocks an attempt to pull guard.
(Rd 1 - 06:45) Arona holds Tamura in position with side control and hits a knee into the ribs.
(Rd 1 - 06:27) Arona begins trying to get himself into a mount.
(Rd 1 - 06:27) He goes for the mount but Tamura starts a scramble for position.
(Rd 1 - 06:12) Arona is up first and quickly grabs Tamura, pushing him up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 05:54) Smothered against the ropes, Tamura is trapped there, unable to get free.
(Rd 1 - 05:54) A full minute passes with the two opponents pressed up close and exchanging short punches to the body and side of the head.
(Rd 1 - 04:53) We've now passed the halfway mark in this round.
(Rd 1 - 04:53) Arona looks to set up a trip takedown.
(Rd 1 - 04:53) Arona doesn't get it, Tamura blocked any attempt to move him.
(Rd 1 - 04:34) Arona attempts a trip to put Tamura on the ground.
(Rd 1 - 04:34) Tamura is taken down by a quick inside leg trip, he can do nothing but pull guard!
(Rd 1 - 04:15) Time slips away as Arona successfully keeps Tamura stuck against the ground.
(Rd 1 - 03:44) Arona smothers Tamura with his body by pushing forward and down.
(Rd 1 - 03:15) In guard, Arona is content just to throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 02:49) Tamura reaches up and tries to lock up an arm.
(Rd 1 - 02:49) Tamura cannot secure the arm.
(Rd 1 - 02:28) Arona lies on top of Tamura, basically smothering him.
(Rd 1 - 02:06) In guard, Arona is content just to throw a couple of punches to the body.
(Rd 1 - 01:50) Tamura tries to ensnare an arm.
(Rd 1 - 01:50) Arona doesn't let his arm get taken.
(Rd 1 - 01:31) Referee Yuji Shimada decides that there is a lack of progress being made and stands them back up.
(Rd 1 - 01:31) Taking a few gulps of breath, Arona is giving the first hint that he is starting to tire a touch.
(Rd 1 - 01:22) Moving around, Arona is looking for an opening to shoot without exposing himself to a counter-strike.
(Rd 1 - 01:22) Tamura can't hit a set-up left jab, but then hits Arona with a straight right.
(Rd 1 - 01:04) Tamura shoots in for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 01:04) The takedown is unsuccessful, Arona sprawled well to block it and manages to push Tamura down so that he is on his hands and knees.
(Rd 1 - 00:49) Arona fires away and manages to connect with two or three heavy shots that rock Tamura!
(Rd 1 - 00:32) Arona hits a big kick to the body of the turtled Tamura!
(Rd 1 - 00:13) Tamura scrambles back to his feet.
(Rd 1 - 00:01) Arona comes in, looking for a takedown.
(Rd 1 - 00:01) Arona couldn't complete the single leg, but does end up standing holding a leg while Tamura hops in place on the other.
(Rd 1 - 00:01) Arona drives Tamura up against the ropes.
(Rd 1 - 00:00) Round one ends as time expires.

Round 2
(Rd 2 - 05:00) Our last round, round two, begins!
(Rd 2 - 04:46) Tamura throws a two-punch combo but Arona avoids both.
(Rd 2 - 04:28) Arona shoots in for a takedown.
(Rd 2 - 04:28) Arona couldn't complete the single leg, but does end up standing holding a leg while Tamura hops in place on the other.
(Rd 2 - 04:28) Arona uses the position to drive Tamura up against the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 04:13) An ugly but effective tactic, Arona is pressing Tamura up against the ropes and slowly wearing him down.
(Rd 2 - 04:13) Sixty seconds goes by with something of a stalemate happening, neither fighter being able to improve their position or generate an advantage.
(Rd 2 - 03:09) Arona looks to set up a trip takedown.
(Rd 2 - 03:09) Arona can't get Tamura down to the ground.
(Rd 2 - 02:50) With the ropes trapping Tamura, Arona looks for a trip takedown.
(Rd 2 - 02:50) Tamura blocks the attempted trip and turns Arona around so that he has his back to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 02:29) We are now at the halfway point of the round.
(Rd 2 - 02:29) With the ropes trapping Arona, Tamura looks to try and take him down by going low and taking out both legs.
(Rd 2 - 02:29) Tamura can't get the takedown as Arona wrestles his way into a dominant position.
(Rd 2 - 02:10) Arona attempts a trip to put Tamura on the ground.
(Rd 2 - 02:10) Tamura blocks the attempted trip and turns Arona around so that he has his back to the ropes.
(Rd 2 - 01:48) Tamura looks for a takedown by grabbing both his opponent's legs and trying to trip him to the mat.
(Rd 2 - 01:48) Arona gets slammed down, ending up on his hands and knees with Tamura on top of him.
(Rd 2 - 01:35) Tamura pounds away on Arona, but few of the shots lands clean.
(Rd 2 - 01:15) Tamura unloads with big rights, but Arona covers up well.
(Rd 2 - 01:00) We move into the final sixty seconds of this round.
(Rd 2 - 01:00) Tamura pounds away but Arona deals with the blows fairly easily.
(Rd 2 - 00:40) Tamura pounds away with right hands, but doesn't do much damage.
(Rd 2 - 00:29) Tamura is too slow to stop Arona getting back up, but does get back control.
(Rd 2 - 00:19) Tamura tries to push Arona toward the ropes, but can't.
(Rd 2 - 00:03) Tamura loses back control, Arona wrestled free and circled back to the center.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The time runs out and that round is over, and so is the fight.
(Rd 2 - 00:00) The official decisions are being reported now.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) All three judges have Arona down as the winner.

(Rd 2 - 00:00) The winner, by unanimous decision, is 'The Brazilian Tiger' Ricardo Arona!

Official Result: Ricardo Arona def. Kiyoshi Tamura by Unanimous Decision.

<img src=https://images.tapology.com/letterbox_images/457/default/wide.jpg?1275993251>

PRIDE: Critical Countdown 2008
Date: June 23, 2008
Venue: Saitama Super Arena
Local: Saitama, Japan
Attendance: 11,465
Gate: $ 3,348,353
Critical Rating: 72%
Commercial Rating: 76%

Main Card

Middleweight Bout: Ricardo Arona def. Kiyoshi Tamura by Unanimous Decision.

Welterweight Bout: Carlos Condit def. Yuki Kondo by Submission (Armbar) in 6:09 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout: Glover Teixeira def. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 8:44 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout: Ronaldo Souza def. Murilo Bustamante by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 3:14 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout: Renato Sobral def. Yoshihiro Akiyama by Unanimous Decision.

Welterweight Bout: Hector Lombard def. Jose Landi-Jons by TKO (Strikes) in 4:57 of Round 1.

Middleweight Bout: Vitor Belfort def. Ikuhisa Minowa by KO (Head Kick) in 0:33 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout: Paul Daley def. Jorge Santiago by KO (Punch) in 1:19 of Round 1.

Preliminary Card

Middleweight Bout: Emanuel Newton def. Kazuhiro Nakamura by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 4:37 of Round 1.

Heavyweight Bout: Ricco Rodriguez def. Kazuyuki Fujita by KO (Punch) in 8:49 of Round 1.

Featherweight Bout: Masakazu Imanari def. Tatsuya Kawajiri by Submission (Kimura) in 8:09 of Round 1.

Welterweight Bout: Yuki Sasaki def. Daijiru Matsui by Submission (Armbar) in 4:46 of Round 2.

Featherweight Bout: Patricio Freire def. Tie Quan Zhang by Unanimous Decision.

Welterweight Bout: Gregor Gracie def. Taiei Kin by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in 4:00 of Round 1.

Lightweight Bout: Chris Horodecki def. Kazunori Yokota by KO (Punch) in 5:45 of Round 1.

Featherweight Bout: Chan Sung Jung def. Tomonari Konomata by Unanimous Decision.

POST FIGHT

<img src=https://i.imgur.com/TwXQehx.png>

- Arona said that he is happy and that this time he will be the champion of the tournament.

- Sobral said that many bet on Akiyama, and that he silenced the critics.

- Belfort said he respects Teixeira and knows that the path to the title will be very difficult.

-Teixeira said he respects all competitors and is happy that the title is already guaranteed for a Brazilian fighter.

- Lombard was happy to enter the tournament and beat Pele the way it happened was great.

- Daley said he'll knock out everyone who crosses his path.

-Souza said that Condit will be a tough opponent and that he hopes to become champion.

-Condit said that Souza is very dangerous on the ground and that he will try to stop him with a knockout.

<img src=https://i.imgur.com/rxrt4M1.png>

PREDICTIONS

CageRage (11-5)

vladjarca (11-5)

rodrigoviolim · February 19, 2021

PRIDE CARDS IN JULY: BUSHIDO TEAM TOURNAMENTS SEMI-FINALS AND FEDOR VS. BARNETT ANNOUNCED

by Sean Smith

PRIDE FC announced the two cards of July. A heavyweight tilt between Roy Nelson (12-3, 4-1 PRIDE) and Ian Freeman (19-9-1, 0-1 PRIDE) will serve as the headliner for Bushido 19 event on Jul. 13. PRIDE Bushido 19 takes place at Marine Messe Fukuoka in Fukuoka, and also includes a team tournament semifinal between Chute Boxe vs. American Top Team and Miletich Fighting System vs. Xtreme Couture.

Two weeks later, Fedor Emelianenko (31-1-1 NC, 18-0-1 NC PRIDE) and Josh Barnett (26-6, 8-5 PRIDE) will square off for a heavyweight gold on the line at PRIDE 45.

PRIDE president Nobuyuki Sakakibara, he had already confirmed that the winner of the fight between Barnett and Overeem would face Fedor and today it was announced the date of the fight has been confirmed. PRIDE 45: Dominance takes place on July 27 at Osaka-jo Hall, in Osaka.

Fedor who does not lose 26 fights, with 11 consecutive victories. He returned to his reign by winning the GP in 2007 and in his most recent fight, made his first defense against former UFC champion Andrei Arlovski, with a knockout in just 22 seconds.

Barnett is currently in a two-game winning streak in which he finished last two of his opponents within one round. More recently, “The Warmaster” knocked out Alistair Overeem at PRIDE 43 in May 2008.

Check the full cards:

PRIDE Bushido 19

Date: July 13, 2008

Venue: Marine Messe Fukuoka

Local: Fukuoka, Japan

PRIDE 45: Dominance

Date: July 27, 2008

Venue: Osaka-jo Hall

Local: Osaka, Japan

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