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A wide aerial shot of downtown San Jose is shown at dusk. Meanwhile the SAP Center lights up as the crowd files in. Inside, the arena buzzes with anticipation ahead of the night of fights.
MG: Ladies and gentlemen, good evening and welcome to the Global Fight League! Tonight, we are LIVE from the SAP Center in San Jose, California. The heart of Silicon Valley as GFL 7 officially gets underway!
BS: Goldie, this building is electric already. You can feel it walking in. San Jose has such a deep combat sports history Strikeforce, UFC and world-class gyms. This is the perfect place to launch the opening round of the GFL Welterweight Championship tournament.
RB: That’s right. This isn’t just another fight night. This is a proving ground. Across these prelims, we’re going to see hungry contenders, unbeaten prospects and veterans who know this may be their moment to make a statement on the global stage.
MG: And what makes GFL so unique is exactly that global representation. Fighters from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas all colliding here tonight with one goal in mind.. Advancing toward the GFL Welterweight Championship.
BS: These prelims matter, Goldie. You don’t ease into a GFL card. Every fighter out there knows one dominant performance can change the entire trajectory of their career.
RB: And stylistically, this is fascinating. We’ve got wrestlers, strikers, submission specialists clashes of ideology. Tonight is about answers. Who can impose their game when the pressure is real?
MG: Well folks, buckle up. Thirteen prelim bouts stand between us and the main card and if history tells us anything, San Jose is about to deliver fireworks.... Ladies and gentlemen, the wait is over. GFL 7 starts right now!
Walkmen: Ange Loosa: "Ready or Not" by Meek Mill
Khotam Boynazarov: "Warrior" by Imagine Dragons
Ange Loosa (10-5) vs. Khotam Boynazarov (12-0)
Opening the night of fights, Ange Loosa would come out aggressive as he looked to press his unbeaten opponent up against the cage to bully him with his size. His opponent however would have this approach well scouted as not only was Khotam able to circle around Loosa but he'd actually secure a takedown on his opponent. On the ground Khotam would secure a crucifix position and started landing several elbows and punches until the referee called for the stoppage. Result: Khotam Boynazarov (13-0) defeated Ange Loosa (10-6) by TKO in the 1st round (2:34)
Walkmen: Andre Fialho: "Amor a Portugal" by Dulce Pontes
Namo Fazil: "Believer" by Major Lazer and Showtek
Andre Fialho (16-9) vs. Namo Fazil (9-1) UFC veteran Andre Fialho would come out really aggressive in this bout from the opening bell. Throwing out big punches looking to take the prospect Namo Fazil out in the early moments, as the pair clinched up Namo landed a hard shot during the clinch which wobbled Fialho. Andre in turn would stun Namo with a shot of his own but as he rushed in to continue this bout of aggressive, Fazil connected with an overhand which put Fialho down for a knockout. Result: Namo Fazil (10-1) defeated Andre Fialho (16-10) by knockout in the 1st round (1:54)
Walkmen: Rhys Mckee: "Zombie" by The Cranberries
Anthony Orozco: “Power” by Kanye West
Rhys McKee (14-7-1) vs. Anthony Orozco (8-0) During the next bout of the night, unbeaten prospect Anthony Orozco would enter in a very dominant and controlling showing against veteran Rhys McKee. This included grounding the veteran and punishing him with ground and pound for the better part of the three rounds. As the fight wore on however we would see Orozco begin to tire and gas out which allowed McKee in turn to get back into the right. These openings would allow McKee to punish Orozco in the final moments of the fight leading to a TKO. Result: Rhys McKee (15-7-1) defeated Anthony Orozco (8-1) by TKO in the 3rd round (4:01)
Walkmen: Busurman Zhumagul: “Dagestan” by Sabina Abdullayeva
Matt Dixon: “Uprising” by Muse
Busurman Zhumagul (4-0) vs. Matt Dixon (11-1) Two rising prospects would collide in a spirited effort. Dixon would look to close the distance against his towering unbeaten opponent in an effort to use his wrestling. However Zhumagul showed great control of distance as he would pick his shots and catch Dixon several times rushing in. This would lead to Zhumagul connecting with a heavy straight right which backed Dixon against the cage and a follow up flurry for a TKO finish Result: Busurman Zhumagul (5-0) defeated Matt Dixon (11-2) by TKO in the 2nd round (1:15)
Walkmen: Jonathan Piersma – “Indestructible” by Disturbed
Austin Clayton – “Till I Collapse” by Eminem
Jonathan Piersma (11-3) vs. Austin Clayton (5-0) Freestyle wrestling standout Austin Clayton would very much put on a wrestling clinic in this fight with Jonathan Piersma. Taking down his opponent at will and landing several impressive trips. It did seem like the unbeaten Clayton very much had this fight in the bag. However despite his early success in the grappling, Jonathan Piersma was not put off and constantly went for submissions until he secured an armbar for a submission victory. Result: Jonathan Piersma (12-3) defeated Austin Clayton (5-1) by submission (armbar) in the 2nd round (1:58)
Walkmen: Ricky Glenn: "ready for war" by 50 Cent
Samandar Murodov: “Legend” by The Score
Ricky Glenn (22-9-2) vs. Samandar Murodov (11-0) The next bout of the night would very much be a showcase for the unbeaten grappler Samandar Murodov. A heavy top grappler with great control, Samandar quickly established his tactic as he repeatedly took down and grounded UFC and WSOF veteran Ricky Glenn. Despite his best efforts Glenn could not get any offense off against his opponent who pinned Glenn down all three rounds for a unanimous decision verdict. Result: Samandar Murodov (12-0) defeated Ricky Glenn (22-10-2) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Walkmen: Takashi Sato: "Oh Ashes/Ash King" by Susumu Hirasawa
Omran Chaaban: “Sultan” by Alaa Wardi
Takashi Sato (16-9) vs. Omran Chaaban (9-1) Veteran Takashi Sato would look to rejuvenate his career in the next bout against rising prospect Omran Chaaban. Sadly this fight would very much be a showcase bout for Chaaban who managed to kick out Sato's legs with a series of vicious leg kicks. This would drop Sato to his knees and allowed Chaaban to quickly dive on his opponents back before he'd waste little time in securing a D'arce choke for the submission. Result: Omran Chaaban (10-1) defeated Takashi Sato (16-10) by submission (D'arce choke) in the 1st round (3:09)
Walkmen: Christian Turner – “Survival” by Eminem
Ivan Podrugin – “Monster” by Skillet
Christian Turner (10-2) vs. Ivan Podrugin (8-0) On a night filled with early finishes, out next fight of the night would be one of the quickest and most dominant finishes we'd seen just yet. As seconds into the first round Ivan Podrugin would connect with a big overland left which put Turner on wobbly legs. A straight would follow dropping Turner and Podrugin would follow him to the ground where he wasted little time in securing a arm triangle choke for the submission. Result: Ivan Podrugin (9-0) defeated Christian Turner (10-3) by submission (arm triangle) in the 1st round (0:54)
Walkmen: Eddy Ellis – “Bad Company” by Five Finger Death Punch
Temirkhan Temirkhanov – “Kavkaz” by Timur Temirov
Eddy Ellis (18-12-1) vs. Temirkhan Temirkhanov (15-1) The next bout of the night would see highly regarded standout Temirkhan Temirkhanov take on veteran journeyman Eddy Ellis. Despite some concerns of this being more of a grappling heavy fight, to the surprise of everyone this bout turned into a slug fest. Both Ellis and Temirkhanov would have one another hurt at points thanks to some heavy punches landed yet despite this they would manage to make it to the scorecards for a split decision verdict. Result: Temirkhan Temirkhanov (16-1) defeated Eddy Ellis (18-13-1) by split decision
Walkmen: Karl Amoussou; “Harder Than You Think” by Public Enemy
Shamidkhan Magomedov: “Born for This” by Papa Roach
Karl Amoussou (27-11-2) vs. Shamidkhan Magomedov (11-1) Top prospect Shamidkhan Magomedov would fight his toughest fight yet as he took on Bellator veteran Karl Amoussou. Despite this being his most experienced and dangerous opponent yet, Shamidkhan would pass this test with flying colors as he quickly grounded his opponent and started to punish him with some damaging ground and pound. This would include a series of elbows from his guard which caused Karl to turtle up for a TKO finish. Result: Shamidkhan Magomedov (12-1) defeated Karl Amoussou (27-12-2) by TKO in the 1st round (4:36)
Walkmen: Murad Guseinov – “Can’t Be Touched” by Roy Jones Jr.
Sabah Homasi – “Walk” by Pantera
Murad Guseinov (10-0) vs. Sabah Homasi (17-12) Unbeaten standout Murad Guseinov would start this bout out highly aggressive against Bellator veteran Sabah Homasi. This included picking Homasi up and dumping him down to the canvas before punishing Homasi with a series of punches on the ground. From here Murad would attempt several submissions which Homasi battled his way out of and made his way to his feet. Murad would wade forward looking to ground his opponent yet again only for a wild hook by Homasi to drop Murad. Several punches followed by Homasi for a shock upset victory. Result: Sabah Homasi (18-12) defeated Murad Guseinov (10-1) by TKO in the 2nd round (1:58)
Walkmen: Elizeu Zaleski: "The Final Countdown" by Europe
Tahir Abdullaev: "Immigrant Song" by Led Zepplin
Elizeu Zaleski (25-10-1) vs. Tahir Abdullaev (21-3) Two veterans would collide in the semi final bout of the preliminary card. While some may have expected a back and forth battle between this pair of fighters we would see quickly Elizeu Zaleski hurt Tahir with a kick to the body. Abdullaev never truly seemed to recover as Zaleski continued to land his offense including a superman punch which backed Tahir up against the fence. Several more strikes by Zaleski would follow dropping Tahir against the fence, leading to the referee calling for a stoppage. Result: Elizeu Zaleski (26-10-1) defeated Tahir Abdullaev (21-4) by TKO in the 1st round (2:24)
Walkmen: Dan Hardy: "England belongs to me" by Cock Sparrer
Jason High: "Run the Jewels" by Killer Mike and ELP
Dan Hardy (25-10) vs. Jason High (23-8) The final bout on the prelims would be a clash of veterans as Strikeforce veteran Jason High took on UFC veteran and GFL panel member Dan Hardy. For his return to MMA this would be a great showing for Dan Hardy as he quickly established himself to be the more skilled competitor on the feet. Hardy would very much pick Jason High off with ease and towards the end of the first round he'd connect with a left hook for a flush knockout! Result: Dan Hardy (26-10) defeated Jason High (23-9) by knockout
The arena goes dark. A low rumble echoes through the SAP Center as red and white lights sweep the crowd. Pyro erupts on the stage and the GFL logo flashes across the massive screen. As always standing in the cage is our host Dasha Gonzalez.
DG: Ladies and gentlemen... San Jose, California... Are you Ready?
The crowd cheers as Dasha continues.
DG: Tonight, the Global Fight League returns to the Bay Area as we move from the prelims into the MAIN CARD of GFL 7! These fights are part of the opening round of the GFL Welterweight Championship tournament where legends, contenders and rising stars collide for the right to move one step closer to championship gold!
The lights pulse in the arena as Dasha continues.
DG: But before that please welcome our musical guest for the evening... Five Finger Death Punch!
Five Finger Death Punch storms the stage as “Wash It All Away” blasts through the arena. Pyro detonates in sync with the chorus. Fighters are shown warming up backstage, pacing, shadowboxing with eyes locked in. Once the performance has concluded we head to the commentary booth where Mike Goldberg, Brendan Schaub and Robin Black are stationed.
MG: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to GFL 7! What an atmosphere here in San Jose as we kick off the main card of the Welterweight Championship tournament!
BS: Goldie, this place is absolutely rocking. You feel it in the air, this is tournament fighting. Every decision, every exchange matters because one loss and you’re done.
RB: That performance sets the tone perfectly. Controlled violence. Precision under pressure. These fighters know exactly what’s at stake and the main card is where the real separation begins.
MG: We’ve already seen statements made on the prelims but now it’s time for the welterweights who expect to go deep in this tournament to prove they belong.
BS: This opener is a perfect example of that. Two men with very different paths, very different styles and one clear objective: advance.
RB: And that’s the beauty of this format. No gimmicks. No shortcuts. Just the truth of fighting.
MG: And that’s the beauty of this format. No gimmicks. No shortcuts. Just the truth of fighting.
Walkmen: Francisco Trinaldo: "Can't be touched" by Roy Jones Jr
Isaac Moreno: “Legend Has It” by Run The Jewels
Francisco Trinaldo (28-9) vs. Isaac Moreno (8-0) From the beginning of this fight Francisco Trinaldo would wade forward and begin to press his opponent. He would land some heavy leg kicks which backed Moreno up who was forced to use jabs and level changes to keep Trinaldo honest. Towards the end of round one Moreno would connect with a straight right on Trinaldo. During round two we would see Moreno successfully begin to implement his wrestling attempts as well as his boxing. Trinaldo would defend the takedowns well and actually land some short elbows on Moreno until Moreno rode out the final moments of the round from half guard. During the third round we would see both fighters showing signs of fatigue with Trinaldo actually landing a big left cross. To close the round Moreno would secure a big takedown and ride out the round. Result: Isaac Moreno (9-0) defeated Francisco Trinaldo (28-10) by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)
MG: What a way to open the main card. Isaac Moreno just picked up the biggest win of his career. But special credit must be given here to Francisco Trinaldo who proved tough, durable and dangerous to the very end.
BS: This was a true test for the prospect and Moreno passed it. He stayed composed and stuck to the gameplan to earn that decision.
RB: The story of this wasn't dominance it was development. Moreno showed maturity, adaptability and resilience.
Walkmen: Rinat Fakhretdinov: 'Ve Vigja' by Eolya
Mark Hulme: “Bulls on Parade” by Rage Against the Machine
Rinat Fakretdinov (25-2-1) vs. Mark Hulme (13-4) Recognizing his underdog status Mark Hulme would come out aggressive and actually managed to put Rinat on the back foot following an overhand punch. Hulme's aggression would eventually backfire as Rinat managed to duck under a looping hook and secure a takedown. From here Rinat took half guard and used shoulder pressure to make Hulme uncomfortable. From here we'd see Rinat move to side control and quickly shift to mount before he'd secure a tight armbar for the submission. Result: Rinat Fakretdinov (26-2-1) defeated Mark Hulme (13-5) by submission (armbar) in the 1st round (2:41)
MG: A big submission there for one of our tournament favorites. That armbar was vicious.
BS: Rinat didn't panic or waste energy. He waited for Hulme to be off balance and seized his moment. You do not want to be in a grappling exchange with this man.
RB: This performance sends a message to the entire bracket. This was a statement maker.
Walkmen: Gleison Tibau: "Iron Man" by Black Sabbath
Carlos Petruzella: “Coming Undone” by Korn
Carlos Petruzella (14-1) vs. Gleison Tibau (39-19) As this fight begins both fighters meet in the center of the ring and despite Tibau's attempts to counter, Petruzella manages to pick him off with jabs and leg kicks. Looking to rush in with a right hand, Gleison is met with a short left hook from Petruzella which snaps Gleison's head back. A follow up combination by Carlos lands with the left hook at the end putting Tibau on unsteady legs with Carlos finally knocking out the veteran flush with a straight right hand. Result: Carlos Petruzella (15-1) defeated Gleison Tibau (39-20) by knockout in the 1st round (1:18)
MG: What a statement by Petruzella. He just knocked out Gleison Tibau in the first round! That's how you advance in an emphatic fashion.
BS: That was so clean. If you didn't know Carlos' name before.. You do now!
RB: This was about speed and conviction. The second Gleison stepped in, Petruzella didn't hesitate.
Walkmen: Lyman Good: "This Is Now" by Hatebreed
Lorenz Larkin: "Hometown" by Thurrobred
Lyman Good (21-6) vs. Lorenz Larkin (27-8) Very quickly into this fight we would see Lorenz Larkin establish his range as he darted in and out with side kicks to the body and calf kicks to Good's lead leg. Every time in the first round Lyman tried to press the action, we would see Larkin slide out of range. Round two would see Good look to continue to pressure Larkin but he would be cut off on every occasion by the striking of Larkin including a straight right which dropped him at the close of the round. Round three would see a desperate Good up his aggression as he realized his needed a finish, Larkin however would continue to control the tempo as he picked Good off for the decision. Result: Lorenz Larkin (28-8) defeated Lyman Good (21-7) by unanimous decision (30-2 x3)
MG: what a masterclass by Lorenz Larkin here as he showed distance and discipline to advance.
BS: Good was never able to get comfortable. Not once.
RB: This was pure geometry. Angles, exit and timing. Larkin put on a beautiful showing.
Walkmen: Demian Maia: "Numb" by Linkin Park
Ben Saunders: "Grew Up a Screw Up" by Ludacris
Demian Maia (28-11) vs. Ben Saunders (23-13-2) This fight would get off to a swift start as Ben Saunders came out highly aggressive throwing kicks and looking to use his reach. Saunders game plan would backfire however as soon Maia managed to catch one of his legs and take Saunders down to the ground. A spirited Saunders would gamely attempt a triangle but Maia remained calm and passed to side control. Saunders would look to scramble but in the process he'd give up his back to Maia who clamped on a rear naked choke for the submission. Result: Demian Maia (29-11) defeated Ben Saunders (23-14-2) by submission (3:41)
MG: This was a vintage performance here. Absolutely textbook by Demian Maia!
BS: Saunders was game but once this hit the ground.. It was done.
RB: This was a true demonstration of grappling by Maia. A big way to advance.
Walkmen: Neiman Gracie: "Pharoahe Monch" by Simon Says
Abubakar Nurmagomedov: "Gangsta's Paradise" by Coolio
Neiman Gracie (13-6) vs. Abubakar Nurmagomedov (17-4-1) Wasting little time from the off, Abubakar Nurmagomedov would charge forward and pressure Gracie against the fence. Once they were in the clinch Abubakar would use short punches to set up a trip from the clinch. For the remainder of the first round Abubakar maintained side control and wrist control to hold Gracie in place. Abubakar would look to continue this during round two but would be forced to settle for the guard. This would be a mistake on Nurmagomedov's part as Neiman would clamp on a swift triangle choke for a shock submission victory! Result: Neiman Gracie (14-6) defeated Abubakar Nurmagomedov (17-5-1) by submission (triangle choke) in the 2d round (2:56)
Walkmen: Yaroslav Amosov: "Moya Igra" by Besta Nikolay Aleksakhin: "Phenomenal" by Eminem
Yaroslav Amosov (29-1) vs. Nikolay Aleksakhin (29-10) Off the back of two submissions we would get another grappling heavy bout as from the off, Yaroslav would shoot in on Nikolay and take him down to the canvas. Despite Aleksakhin's best effots, Amosov would very much control him for the remainder of this round. During round two Aleksakhin would look to get some offense on the feet but would once more be taken down and controlled by Amosov who would do enough to stay busy. The third would continue this story with Amosov controlling Aleksakhin, to his credit Nikolay would attempt a guillotine but Amosov would defend and ride out the round! Result: Yaroslav Amosov (30-1) defeated Nikolay Aleksakhin (29-11) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
MG: That was a dominant showing by the former Bellator Champion!
BS: Amosov just showed why he is a favorite for a reason. He controlled one of the tournaments best grapplers.
RB: Amosov made it look easy here. He shut Aleksakhin down.
Walkmen: Nate Diaz: "Don't Make Enemies With Me" by Tupac and Outlawz
Joe Riggs: "Here I Go Again" by Whitesnake
Nate Diaz (21-13) vs. Joe Riggs (50-8-1) To no surprise these two would meet in the center immediately. As we'd see Diaz wasted little time in establishing his jab while Riggs would swing wild looping punches. Diaz would also quickly begin talking trash to Riggs who shot on Nate near the end of the first and landed some ground and pound. The second round would see Nate up the volume as he kept landing jab after jab and multiple hooks which would begin to swell up Riggs' face as as bust his nose. Riggs' attempts to counter would only be met with more volume at the close of round two. During round three, Nate seemingly smelled blood as he upped the pressure and landed some punishing body blows on top. A big straight punch would back Riggs up against the cage and Diaz pounced with body shots and hooks until Riggs drops to a knee under the barrage and the referee calls a stop to the contest. Result: Nate Diaz (22-13) defeated Joe Riggs (50-19-1) by TKO in the 3rd round (3:46)
MG: What a performance there by Nate Diaz. He very much took every page out of the Diaz playbook tonight.
BS: That was suffocating. No breaks and absolutely no mercy
RB: Diaz weaponized pressure big time here. He just showed he is a big threat in this tournament.
MG: Well fans that is it for tonight but we will see you for the continuation of the Welterweight tournament at GFL 8
Cold Open. Aerial shots of downtown St. Louis at dusk. The Gateway Arch looms over the Mississippi River. Quick cuts the Arch glowing at night, fans flooding the streets and GFL banners hanging outside the arena. The camera snaps inside the sold out Enterprise Center. The crowd is loud.
DG: Ladies and Gentleman welcome to GFL 8. Live from St. Louis, Missouri!
There is a pop from the crowd as Dasha continues.
DG: Thirty two welterweights started off entering this tournament and during our last show we saw that field narrow when 8 got eliminated and 8 advanced. Now tonight that margin will grow even thinner when the final opening round matches are decided!
MG: Hello everybody.. Welcome to the GFL 8. I'm Mike Goldberg and I am joined by my colleagues Robin Black and Brendan Schaub.
BS: Goldie.. We are in Missouri. This is a state which knows all about combat and tonight's crowd is ready for action.
RB: St. Louis is built on toughness and grit. Tonight we will see which fighters personify that.
MG: We are set for a long night of action here. Not only do we have 8 tournament matches to enjoy but also a stacked preliminary card.
BS: Our prelims feature prospects, unbeaten standouts, veterans and warriors who know their time maybe drawing near,
RB: So ladies and gentleman. Buckle up and strap in as it's now time for our prelims to get the GFL started.
WALKMEN
Matthew Semelsberger - "Fast and Furious" by Nate Good
Lucas Rafael - "Sou Grafiteiro por Amor" by Banda Grafith
Matthew Semelsberger (11-8) vs. Lucas Rafael (6-0) opening up tonight's show on the preliminary card would be a clash between UFC veteran Matthew Semelsberger and undefeated Brazilian striker Lucas Rafael. The veteran Semelsberger would look to close the distance early on in this fight and make it a gritty affair. However his attempts to close the gap and wade in would leave him open to several counter strikes from Lucas including a step in left which dropped Semelsberger before Lucas followed up with several short punches for a brutal knockout. Result: Lucas Rafael (7-0) defeated Matthew Semelsberger (11-9) by knockout in the 1st round (2:09)
WALKMEN
Jared Gooden - “Like I Ain't” by Tech N9ne
Alvi Dasuyev - "Trip the darkness" by Lacuna Coil
Jared Gooden (23-11) vs. Alvi Dasuyev (8-0) Ares Welterweight Champion Alvi Dasuyev would be in action in the next bout of the evening as he took on UFC veteran Jared Gooden. This would be a big showcase performance for Alvi Dasuyev as the Belgium native punished Jared Gooden on the feet with his striking before dropping him with a flying knee. Gooden would never fully recover as Alvi pounced on him with several follow up punches for a swift knockout victory! Result: Alvi Dasuyev (9-0) defeated Jared Gooden (23-12) by knockout in the 1st round (0:58)
WALKMEN
Miguel Baeza - "Victory" by Puff Daddy feat. Notorious B.I.G
David Samuel - "Spokoynaya noch" by Kino
Miguel Baeza (10-4) vs. David Samuel (4-0) Undefeated prospect David Samuel would face his toughest opponent to date as he took on UFC veteran Miguel Baeza. This would be a strong showing for David Samuel as he showed a well rounded game against Baeza. This included landing some heavy strikes on the feet while also controlling Miguel Baeza on the mat with his ground game. After three rounds of serviceable action, David Samuel would pick up a unanimous decision. Result: David Samuel (5-0) defeated Miguel Baeza (10-5) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
WALKMEN
Valentine Woodburn - "Shootaz" by Vybz Kartel
Sean Clancy Jr -
Valentine Woodburn (9-2) vs. Sean Clancy Jr. (8-0) Cage Warriors Welterweight champion Sean Clancy Jr would be the next undefeated standout to step into the cage as he took on UFC veteran Valentine Woodburn. This fight would be very much a photo finish as within seconds of the fight opening Sean Clancy Jr flattened Valentine Woodburn with a step in straight. This dropped Woodburn and allowed Clancy to land several follow up punches for a blitz KO. Result: Sean Clancy Jr (9-0) defeated Valentine Woodburn (9-4) by knockout in the 1st round (0:09)
WALKMEN
Mac Danzig - "War Ensemble" by Jedi Mind Tricks
Leon Hill - "My Curse" by Killswitch Engage
Mac Danzig (22-12-1) vs. Leon Hill (9-2) Ireland's Leon Hill would face his toughest opposition yet as he took on UFC veteran Mac Danzig. While on paper Leon was a massive favorite to win this fight, we would see quickly Mac Danzig shock everyone as he clipped Leon coming in with a left cross. Leon would be hurt badly by this shot and Mac Danzig took his back. From here Mac would clamp on a rear naked choke submission on Leon for the submission. Result: Mac Danzig (23-12-1) defeated Leon Hill (9-3) by submission (Rear Naked Choke) in the 1st round (1:36)
WALKMEN
Geovanis Palacios - "Till I Collapse" by Eminem
Reginaldo Junior - "Run this town" by Jay Z
Geovanis Palacios (8-0) vs. Reginaldo Junior (11-1) Two top prospects would collide in the next bout of the night. In the run up to this fight the commentary panel would deem both men as tournament worthy participants. This would very much be a back and forth battle with each man showing off high level skills on the feet and on the canvas. As we got to the third round it would be scored as one round a piece before Palacios connected with an overhand right which dropped Junior for a TKO finish. Result: Geovanis Palacios (9-0) defeated Reginaldo Junior (11-2) by TKO in the third round (3:16)
WALKMEN
Khadim Dia - "Hands of Faith" by Tha Bit Marker
Jeff Creighton - "Back In Black" by ACDC
Khadim Dia (7-0) vs. Jeff Creighton (12-2-1) Our next bout of the night would see undefeated prospect Khadim Dia take on Ultimate fighter contestant Jeff Creighton. Unfortunately for the fans in attendance what followed was a very listless affair from both fighters. After a round of inactivity we would see Jeff Creighton begin to use his wrestling ability to takedown and control Dia for the remainder of the fight for a unanimous decision victory. Result: Jeff Creighton (13-2-1) defeated Khadim Dia (7-1) by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
WALKMEN
Jordan Mein - "State of Mind" by Dizzy Wright
Jaden Ortega - “Deaf” by Motorhead
Jordan Mein (33-14) vs. Jaden Ortega (5-0) UFC and Strikeforce veteran Jordan Mein would take on unbeaten prospect Jaden Ortega. This bout would be a impressive showing for Ortega who landed a big overhand which put Mein on skates. A series of short punches followed which dropped Mein to the canvas before Ortega followed up with a series of hammer fists to the grounded Jordan Mein. Mein would begin to turtle up but Ortega started to land some ground elbows for a brutal knockout. Result: Jaden Ortega (6-0) defeated Jordan Mein (33-15) by Knockout in the 1st round (1:15)
WALKMEN
Felix Klinkhammer - “Lunatic Fringe” by Red Rider
Amir Hossein Alipour - "Kashmir" by Led Zeppelin
Felix Klinkhammer (11-0) vs. Amir Hossein Alipour (6-1) Two ground specialists would collide in the next bout. While many hoped we would see a ground battle, instead this fight turned into a one sided battle as Felix Klinkhammer hoisted Alipour in the air and planted him with a high angle double leg. From here the fight was all Klinkhammer as he moved around Amir Hossein Alipour with ease and took mount. From here Felix locked into a tight mounted guillotine for the submission. Result: Felix Klinkhammer (12-0) defeated Amir Hossein Alipour (6-2) by submission (guillotine choke) in the 1st round (1:56)
WALKMEN Boris Medvedev - "Kuntu Maytan" by Nasheed
Luis Hernandez - "Sweet Dreams" by Eurythmics
Boris Medvedev (20-2) vs. Luis Hernandez (7-0) Two top Welterweight standouts would do battle in the next contest of the evening. It would quickly be established in this bout that Boris Medvedev had a big edge in both the striking and the wrestling portions of this contest. This was shown by him stunning Luis Hernandez on the feet and also by hitting several trips and takedowns. Hernandez would look to stay busy off his back however and while this was stifled in the early rounds he'd manage to secure a triangle choke in the third. Result: Luis Hernandez (8-0) defeated Boris Medvedev (20-3) by submission (triangle choke) in the third round (4:01)
WALKMEN
David Rickels - "What Is Love" by Haddaway
Si Won Park - "Golden" by Ejae
David Rickels (22-6) vs. Si Won Park (7-1) Charismatic Bellator veteran David Rickels would look to upset rising prospect Si Won Park in the next bout of the night. While Rickels would have some success in the early going of this fight as he was able to bully and clinch with his younger foe. We would see Park make some adjustments and begin to separate from Rickels and his attempts to close. This allowed Si Won in the second round to connect with a big counter straight for a stunning knockout. Result: Si Won Park (8-1) defeated David Rickels (22-7) by Knockout in the 2nd round (3:42)
WALKMEN
Mike Perry - "Halo" by Beyonce
Saad Awad - "Yes Indeed" by Drake & Lil Baby
Mike Perry (14-8) vs. Saad Awad (24-14) The final bout on the prelims would see two prolific knockout artists collide as UFC veteran and Bareknuckle star Mike Perry took on Bellator standout Saad Awad. As one might expect both fighters would come out aggressive and looking to take one another out. Awad managed to wobble Perry with a wild cross but soon Mike Perry would land a big standing elbow strike which led to Awad face planting the canvas for a vicious knockout. Result: Mike Perry (15-9) defeated Saad Awad (24-15) by 1st round knockout (2:57)
The Arena lights drop. A deep bass hit echoes through the Enterprise Center as gold and crimson lights sweep across the crowd. Standing in the center of the cage is Dasha Gonzalez who welcomes everyone to the main card.
DG: Ladies and gentlemen! welcome back to Global Fight League 8, live from St. Louis, Missouri! This is the Welterweight Tournament where legacies are forged, pressure breaks fighters and only the strongest move on.
The crowd cheers as Dasha continues.
DG: So before we get to the main card. Please welcome our guest musical act of the evening.. Jason Derulo!
Jason Derulo emerges to a massive pop. He launches into “Take You Dancing” as dancers begin flooding the stage and flames start bursting at the chorus. The crowd sings along as the camera cuts between fans, fighters backstage watching monitors and judges cage side. He closes with “Swalla” with fireworks blasting as the final beat drops.
MG: What an atmosphere here in St. Louis! Jason Derulo bringing the house down as we kick off the GFL 8 main card.
BS: This place is electric, Goldie. And now the switch flips.. It’s time to fight.
RB: The energy matters. Fighters feel it. And in tournament bouts like these adrenaline can be a weapon or a mistake.
MG: It is now time to get this tournament started. So let's begin with our opening contest and a clash of Ultimate fighters!
WALKMEN
Zhang Lipeng - "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor
Jesse Taylor - "Highwayman" by The Highwaymen
Zhang LiPeng (35-13-2) vs. Jesse Taylor (33-17) Looking to press the action and go right on the attack, this would include some wild hooks which would back LiPeng up onto the fence. Zhang would use Taylor's aggression against him however and quickly clinches up with Taylor before executing a trip putting himself in Jesse's guard. Defending a few submission attempts from Jesse, Zhang would move to half guard and then side control. It would be here that Lipeng would secure an arm triangle choke for the submission. Result: Zhang LiPeng (36-13-2) defeated Jesse Taylor (33-18) by submission (arm triangle choke) in the 1st round (2:43)
MG: What a statement there. Zhang Lipeng with an emphatic submission victory!
BS: That was surgical. Taylor came out hot and Zhang punished him.
RB: This is tournament fighting at it's finest. No wasted movement there from Zhang LiPeng.
WALKMEN
Ray Cooper III - "Polynesian People" by Norm
Cosmo Alexandre - "DNA" by Kendrick Lamar
Ray Cooper III (25-13-1) vs. Cosmo Alexandre (9-1) The fight as many expected would get off to an aggressive start. Ray Cooper would show little concern of his opponents pedigree as he waded forward and looked to throw looping punches and kicks. In response to this Cosmo would show patience as he looked to make reads on his opponent. Ray Cooper would lunge in looking for a big right hand when Cosmo slipped and fired back with a left hook and right hand which dropped Cooper. Alexandre would follow with several follow up punches before the referee called a stop. Result: Cosmo Alexandre (10-1) defeated Ray Cooper III (25-14-1) by knockout in the 1st round (1:16)
MG: One mistake and one opening was all that was needed. Cosmo made Ray Cooper pay for it.
BS: That's veteran striking right there. Cooper tried to bring the pressure but Cosmo stayed calm and ended it instantly.
RB: This is why experience matters. Cosmo didn't rush. He waited, calculated and executed this perfectly.
WALKMEN
Geno Morelli - "Nipsey Freestyle" by Dirty Sauce Dallas
Louis Glismann - "Don't Break the oath" by Mercyful Fate Geno Morelli (5-0) vs. Louis Glismann (12-3) As this fight opened up we would see Louis Glismann look to establish distance and stick behind his jab. This would be until Morelli was able to duck under a punch and land a double leg takedown. From here Geno Morelli would ride out the remainder of the opening round in Louis' guard. The second round would see Louis attempt to increase his tempo including with a perfect knee strike landed to the midsection. Geno would however change levels and secure another takedown which kept Glismann down for the remainder of the round. A frustrated Glismann would come out in the third round looking to make something happen but he would be dragged to the canvas by Morelli who managed to ride out the round for the decision. Result: Geno Morelli (6-0) defeated Louis Glismann (12-4) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
MG: This was a grinding and disciplined performance by Morelli. He imposed his will from start to finish.
RB: Wrestling is about denying options and Louis ran out of them early.
BS: No risks and no mistakes. Just pure control.
WALKMEN
Norman Parke - "Right Above It" by Lil Wayne (feat. Drake)
Bryan Battle - "Dreams and Nightmares" by Meek Mill Norman Parke (32-7-1) vs. Bryan Battle (12-2) From the start of this contest Bryan Battle took the center of the cage and began both pumping out his jam while mixing in calf kicks. Parke would look to counter and close the distance in the clinch but Battle managed to circle out and fire off a combination. Parke would briefly score a takedown but Battle worked his way to his feet at the end of round one. During round two we would see Battle landing combinations to the body and some stiff leg kicks. Parke in response tried to time Battle's striking with a takedown but he would be wobbled late in the second with a clean left hook. The third round would see an urgent Parke surge forward but Battle stayed composed and continued to circle Parke and land crisp combinations on his way to a decision. Result: Bryan Battle (13-2) defeated Norman Parke (32-8-1) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
MG: Battle outclassed Parke on the feet and I have to say he looks like a serious problem moving forward.
BS: That's a tough experienced opponent who Battle fought. He made this look clean.
RB: This was all about control of space and Battle owned it.
WALKMEN
Joey Davis - "My Moment" by DJ Drama
Kevin Lee - "First Day Out" by Tee Grizzley
Joey Davis (8-1) vs. Kevin Lee (20-9) This fight would get off to a slow start as Kevin Lee and Joey Davis looked to pick one another off. The pair would remain cautious with Davis being the first to shoot but this would be stuffed by Lee who landed a little ground and pound before they would separate. Following a so so round one we would see Joey Davis up his pressure and pace. This includes shooting for several takedowns on Lee and working him over in the clinch. The third round would see Lee land his biggest shot which was a short left hook which visibly stunned Davis. With Davis wobbled, Kevin followed with a takedown of his own and punished Davis with some ground and pound to ride out the round and take this fight to the scorecards. Result: Kevin Lee (21-9) defeated Joey Davis (8-2) by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
MG: This was a composed performance by Kevin Lee. This weight class seems to suit him.
BS: He managed to slowly shut down Davis' wrestling and even scored his own takedown. He made a statement here.
RB: This was about experience. Lee knew when to engage and when not to.
WALKMEN
Ding Meng - "Dead or Alive" by Maya
Roberto Soldic - "Jagga" Love Song
Ding Meng (35-9) vs. Roberto Soldic (21-4) With both men known for their powerful striking and aggression, this fight would get off to a quick start as Ding Meng rushed forwards and actually stumbled Soldic with a big overhand. Instead of backing up however, Soldic would embrace the fire fight and begin to fire back with some hard strikes of his own. This included a big uppercut which dropped Ding Meng to the canvas. Two vicious follow up punches would follow for a knockout victory. Result: Roberto Soldic (22-4) defeated Ding Meng (35-10) by knockout in the 1st round (0:53)
MG: This is why Roberto Soldic is one of the most dangerous men in the tournament. He sent a message with this.
BS: That was violent. Meng started the fire but Soldic poured gas on it!
RB: This was elite knockout craft right here by Soldic.
WALKMEN
Dillon Danis - 'Freed From Desire' by Gala
Eddie Gordon - "Truck" by Eric Smith
Dillon Danis (3-0) vs. Eddie Gordon (8-7) Seeking to put an end to this fight, Eddie Gordon would come out aggressive as he threw heavy punches. A big looping hook of Gordon would cause Danis to stumble. A shot by Danis would be blocked by Gordon but Eddie would make a costly decision as he didn't disconnect from Danis who managed to sweep Gordon onto his back. From here the fight was as good as done as Dillon Danis moved to mount and quickly secured an armbar for the submission. Result: Dillon Danis (4-) defeated Eddie Gordon (8-8) by submission (armbar) in the 1st round (1:39)
MG: He may have had some early adversity but this was textbook Danis in the end.
RB: This was submission mastery. Once this fight hit the canvas, this was effortless.
BS: You just can't risk going to the ground with someone like Danis. Gordon had a chance to back away and he didn't take it.
WALKMEN
Tyron Woodley - "King Without a Crown" by Thi'sl
Brian Foster - "Simple Man" by Shinedown
Tyron Woodley (19-7-1) vs. Brian Foster (30-13) During the main event of the night. We would very much see a very tepid fight between Tyron Woodley and Brian Foster. Both men would circle one another cautiously with very little output much to the anger and annoyance of the crowd. Round two despite doubts would be even slower than the first as neither man looked to engage. The crowd would voice their disapproval when suddenly Tyron Woodley connected with a big right hand which landed flush on Foster's chin for a one punch knockout. Result: Tyron Woodley (20-7-1) defeated Brian Foster (30-14) by knockout in the 2nd round (4:10)
MG: This was a slow fight and then it wasn't. Patience paid off here with Woodley.
BS: That is Tyron Woodley. He only needs one shot to change the fight.
RB: He just showed he still is one of the most dangerous fighters at this weight.
MG: Well ladies and gentleman.. This is the end of the evening but we will see you soon for the GFL Lightweight tournament bracketology.
MG: Ladies and Gentleman, welcome back to the GFL Bracketology. Off the back of an action packed and exciting Welterweight tournament opening round. We tonight will unveil the first eight entrants into the Lightweight tournament. A weight class which has provided some of MMA's greatest moments and most memorable fights!
BS: This is a tournament field I have personally been waiting to see. A talent rich weight class unlike anything we've seen before. This promises to be the most well rounded field of killers yet.
RB: I can't wait to see this field. Lightweight is a class which has constantly evolved. We have seen all time greats in the past such as BJ Penn and wars such as Frankie Edgar and Gray Maynard. I can't wait to see what talent we have amassed here.
MG: So with that in mind let's head to our colleague Alex for the introductions.
AW: Thank you Mike. I am excited to be here tonight for this field. To start us off though we have a very special guest.. Please welcome Ben Askren!
(Ben Askren appears on the screen to a rousing reaction.)
MG: Ben! It's good to see you again. Your boy Woodley did great at our last show!
BA: Thank you Mike! I'm really happy for Tyron and I'm hoping that success rubs off on another old friend of mine and former champion. He is one of the most exciting strikers the sport has ever seen.. Anthony Pettis!
MG: This man changed the sport! A must see fighter at all times!
BS: One of the most creative strikers the sport has ever seen. The Showtime kick is the stuff of legend.
RB: When Pettis is truly switched on.. The rules need not apply. This is a fantastic start.
AW: Off the back of our first entrant who is one of the most skilled strikers the sport has ever seen. Our second entrant is one of MMA's most elite grapplers. A multiple time Jiu Jitsu champion as well as submission wrestling standout.. Garry Tonon!
MG: This is a dangerous addition to this tournament! Tonon is capable of upsetting fields.
BS: You do not want to grapple with Tonon. He is an elite grappler.
RB: A submission hunter at the highest level. He can end fights in a second.
AW: For our third entrant to the GFL Lightweight Championship. We have a special guest present to introduce them. Please welcome an all time great at this weight class.. Frankie "The Answer" Edgar!
(Frankie Edgar appears on the screen to a rousing response.)
MG: Frankie! My old friend! It is great to see you here with the GFL. When it comes to Lightweight action and some of it's great fights. I can't help but remember your wars with Gray Maynard.
FE: Thank you Mike. It's a real pleasure to be here today and I'm proud to announce this next man. This is a man I went to battle with for ten of the hardest rounds of my career... He is a former UFC Lightweight champion.. Benson Henderson!
MG: WOW! This is a game changing announcement. Henderson has fought everyone!
BS: A former world champion with a pace and durability like no other.
RB: This man is the definition of hard work. You don't outwork Ben Henderson period.
AW: As we get to our fourth entrant of the GFL Lightweight tournament. We have a special guest to announce our next entrant. This guest will be Jake Shields.
(Jake Shields appears on the big screen standing before a jiujitsu mat.)
MG: Jake. Welcome back to the GFL. It's been great to see your Cesar Gracie team doing so well.
JS: It certainly is Mike and in my opinion.. Out of all of us our next entrant is the toughest of us all. Please Welcome Gilbert Melendez!
MG: One of the toughest Lightweights I think the sport has ever seen. No quit and No fear.
BS: Melendez is all pressure and violence. When he fights its always a dogfight.
RB: El Nino is back in tournament combat. This is an excellent addition to the tournament.
AW: We have another special guest for our fifth entrant into the GFL. Please welcome one of the most exciting and action packed fighters in MMA history.. Chris Lytle!
(Chris Lytle appears on the big screen to loud, respectful applause.)
MG: Chris.. My old friend! Welcome to the GFL.
CL: It's great to be here Mike. It's not my first time around a tournament and it definitely isn't the man I'm introducing's first time ever. He is a veteran of the highest order who always finds a way.. Shonie Carter!
MG: Mr. International! What an entrant this is. You want big fight experience. You got it here.
BS: Shonie is more than a gimmick. Don't let his antics fool you he is not all show.
MG: Welcome back ladies and Gentleman for our next installment of the GFL Lightweight Tournament. The other day we announced the first eight participants in the tournament and today we will announce the second eight as we reach our halfway point.
BS: The field so far has been studded. We are seeing Lightweight live up to it's high level talent promise thus far.
RB: We so far have had six former world champions confirmed for our field. I can't wait to see what comes next.
MG: So let's go back to Alex for our next wave of introductions.
AW: Thank you Mike. Our ninth entrant is a Strikeforce and UFC veteran with a history of strong performances in tournaments. He is a ultimate fighter winner... Kurt Holobaugh!
MG: A true veteran through and through. Holobaugh is battle tested!
RB: This is a veteran of the highest order and he has little issue in embracing the grind.
BS: On top of that he has risen to the occasion in tournaments before. Kurt knows how to win!
AW: For our next entrant. We have a special guest here to handle the introduce. Please welcome an all time MMA great and former heavyweight champion.. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira!
(A smiling Big Nog appears on the screen to a rousing response.)
MG: Minotauro my old friend. How are you.
AN: Hi Mike! I'm so happy to be here apart of this. I'm especially happy to introduce a man who knows tournaments very well back when I coached him on the ultimate fighter. Please welcome... Efrain Escudero!
RB: Another fighter with tournament experience. He knows how to win and how to advance.
BS: He has heart and skill. This is a tough and formidable fighter.
MG: Efrain's experience especially in a tournament setting will be priceless here.
AW: Our next entrant is a young fighter who is a former UFC veteran famed for his appearance on Looking for a Fight. Please welcome at number 14. Sage Northcutt!
MG: What an addition we have here. Still evolving and perhaps one of the most naturally athletic fighters I've seen.
RB: The ceiling for Sage is forever high. He is special.
BS: If Sage puts it all together.. He can be a big threat in this whole tournament.
MG: Ladies and Gentleman. Welcome back to the Bracketology. We are about to announce the final eight in this group of participants for the Lightweight tournament.
BS: This is a group of heavy hitters already. I cannot wait to see what we have to come.
BS: This maybe the most talent rich tournament we have yet. I'm very intrigued to see who rounds this out.
AW: Thank you Mike. For our next entrant, we have a very special guest. Please welcome one of MMA's finest coaches Mark Henry.
(Mark Henry appears on the screen to respectful applause.)
MG: Welcome Mark. It's great to have you here.
MH: Great to be here Mike and it's my pleasure to introduce this next man. He is someone I have worked closely with for years and someone I've seen win gold everywhere he goes.. Eddie Alvarez
MG: What an addition. A champion from the UFC and Bellator.
BS: World class experience and a killer on the feet.
RB: A proven tournament fighter. Alvarez is truly someone who thrives in the chaos.
AW: Ladies and Gentleman, for our next entrant please welcome a very special guest to handle the introduction.. Brock Lesnar.
(Brock Lesnar appears on the big screen to a huge response.)
MG: Brock! What a surprise! It's great to see you.
BL: Thanks Mike. I'm happy to announce the final man in this field. He is someone I've known and trained with for years. I called him my champion back on the ultimate fighter and he's proven that since then.. Tony Ferguson.
MG: What an addition. This guy doesn't care about odds or pain.. He just fights.
BS: Relentless pressure and highly unpredictable!
RB: This man will break your rhythm, strategy and spirit.
MG: We now have the full field for this packed tournament. We will be back soon to announce the opening matches.
GFL Lightweight Tournament Participants
1. Anthony "Showtime" Pettis (25-14)
2. Garry "The Lion Killer" Tonon (9-2)
3. Benson "Smooth" Henderson (30-12)
4. Gilbert "El Nino" Melendez (22-8)
5. Shonie "Mr. International" Carter (51-32-7)
6. Patricky "Pitbull" Freire (25-15)
7. Natan "Russo" Schulte (25-5-1)
8. "Ill" Will Brooks (26-5-1)
9. Kurt "The Hurt" Holobaugh (21-10)
10. Marcin Held (31-10)
11. Lowen Tynanes (12-2)
12. Efrain "Hencho en Mexico" Escudero (32-17)
13. Clay "The Carpenter" Guida (38-25)
14. "Super" Sage Northcutt (12-3)
15. Alexander "Tiger" Sarnavisky (44-9)
16. Richie "Savage" Lewis (7-1)
17. Raush "Cavalo De Guerra" Manfio (17-9)
18. Michael "The Lone Wolf" Trizano (10-3)
19. Saul "The Hangman" Rogers (15-5)
20. Diego "The Nightmare" Sanchez (30-14)
21. Sidney "Da Gun" Outlaw (21-6)
22. Igeu "Smiley" Kabesa (19-3)
23. George Hardwick (14-4)
24. "Problema" Juan Pablo Vieira (9-0)
25. "The Underground King" Eddie Alvarez (29-6)
26. Joe "Skeletor" Giannetti (17-7-1)
27. Mansher "New Era" Khera (10-0)
28. Roosevelt "The Predator" Roberts (12-5)
29. Dakota "Hairy" Bush (15-4)
30. Ramsey "Nasty" Nijem (10-9)
31. Jesse "The Body Snatcher" Ronson (26-12)
32. Tony "El Cucuy" Ferguson (25-11)
MG: Ladies and Gentleman, Welcome back to the GFL Lightweight Bracketology event. So far we have unveiled all thirty participants in this tournament and now we will unveil the match ups and groups for the GFL Lightweight tournament. With that said I will turn everyone over to our panel to discuss these matches. This panel includes Former Strikeforce champion Josh Thompson, UFC title challengers Kenny Florian and Dan Hardy, Women's MMA pioneer Julie Kedzie, referee Big John McCarthy and reporters Helen Yee and The Schmo. So without further a do let's get to our announcements and our panel!
Group A Anthony Pettis vs. Clay Guida
Sage Northcutt vs. Shonie Carter
JM: Right off the bat we have a very tough looking group. Starting with an intriguing rematch between Anthony Pettis and Clay Guida. Pettis has always been the dynamic striker but last time he struggled with the unpredictable nature of Guida.
JT: Exactly John. Pettis has to stay disciplined and controlled here. He has to learn from past mistakes and avoid being dragged into a fight which doesn't play to his skillset.
TS: Then you've got Shonie Carter fighting Sage Northcutt. A young phenom against a seasoned veteran. Sage has the technique but Shonie is so tricky. He can more than catch Sage with something unorthodox.
KF: You can never sleep on Shonie. Matt Serra can attest to this.
JK: I like the mix in this group. Plus the prospect of second round battles. Shonie Carter and Clay Guida would promise to be one of the most unpredictable fights yet while Sage and Pettis would be a striking masterclass.
HY: I think this group gives a lot of potential questions. Such as will the veteran surprise? Will the result be different this time?
DH: This is the perfect opening group. With Pettis and Guida we have skill vs chaos and with Sage and Shonie we have youth vs experience.
Group B Dakota Bush vs. Michael Trizano
Mansher Khera vs. Jesse Ronson
JT: Now this is a fascinating group. A very grind heavy match there between Bush and Trizano.
DH: Two very tough and highly skilled veterans. The winner of that is going to be tough as nails.
TS: Then on the other side of the group we go from the grind to pure aggression. Two dangerous finishers do battle when Mansher Khera fights Jesse Ronson.
JK: Khera and Ronson is a show stealer in my eyes. That fight doesn't seem like the kind to go the distance.
KF: That fight will also be the toughest fight of Khera's to date. We will have some questions answered at the end.
JM: This is a rounded group and the winner of this round will be someone who can truly survive pressure. That's key in this setting.
HY: Following on from what John said, I truly believe the winner of this group is a dark horse pick for the tournament.
Group C Ben Henderson vs. Eddie Alvarez
Diego Sanchez vs. Tony Ferguson
JT: Now we are talking! This is a group of legends with two certified bangers.
KF: I tell you Ben Henderson and Eddie Alvarez is a fight which promises instant fireworks. That's a history making fight right there!
JM: It's such a fascinating stylistic contrast. In my eyes it's a true chess match of greats!
TS: That's without mentioning the fire fight between Ferguson and Sanchez. That fight is chaos.
JK: That fight is my most anticipated bout just yet. That's going to be a brawl.
HY: I love this group. You have history making talents all colliding in one group.
JM: The winner of this group could determine the real start of the tournament.
Group D Garry Tonon vs. Raush Manfio
Marcin Held vs. Roosevelt Roberts
JM: We have gone from fireworks to a group of ground specialists.
JK: To have both Tonon and Held in the same bracket is crazy. At the same time Roberts and Manfio are noted spoilers.
HY: Roberts has to use his range and athleticism to keep Held honest. He cannot engage in scrambles with Held.
KF: Held is a leg lock guy. Roberts long rangy limbs which could make him susceptible to Held's game.
TS: Then we have grappling ace Garry Tonon take on PFL veteran Raush Manfio.
DH: Manfio really has to mind his Ps and Qs here. Engaging with Tonon on the ground will be costly.
JT: This is a smart, balanced group. The winner of this will really need to earn it!
Group E Alexander Sarnavskiy vs. Joe Giannetti
Juan Pablo Vieira vs. Patricky Pitbull
KF: We certainly go Global in this group. This is a dangerous group filled with two prolific Bellator veterans.
HY: The fight between Sarnavskiy and Giannetti is going to be very interesting. You have a veteran grinder going against a long, rangy opportunist.
DH: This is a highly dangerous selection. All of these men are noted finishers who can change a fight in seconds.
TS: We also have an unbeaten standout Juan Pablo Vieira battling heavy hitting veteran Patricky Pitbull.
JM: Fans will be watching Pitbull closely. He is one of the most explosive fighters the game has seen.
JK: Vieira is an exceptional talent who has the skill to shock everyone here.
JT: To echo my colleagues this is a dangerous field. The winner of this group could upset the bracket.
Group F Gilbert Melendez vs. Lowen Tynanes
Igeu Kabesa vs. George Hardwick
JK: Melendez vs. Tynanes is a fascinating fight on paper. Melendez is a legend and a true veteran of the game. This is the biggest fight of Tynanes career.
KF: Tynanes is a elite grappler. He is capable of out grappling most people in this tournament.
JT: This fight will also tell us what Melendez has left in the tank!
HY: Then we have a clash of two prospects as George Hardwick takes on Igeu Kabesa
JM: Hardwick will have an edge on the technique but Kabesa has game changing power.
DH: This is a fascinating block. As every fighter is vastly different from one another. The possibilities here are endless.
TS: This block will definitely be a wild card in the tournament field.
Group G Ramsey Nijem vs. Richie Lewis
Will Brookes vs. Kurt Holobaugh
KF: This is a no nonsense group. Just pure grit and strong wrestling ability.
JK: Nijem with his striking and wrestling ability is the perfect veteran test for Richie Lewis.
JM: Prospects need tests like these. Lewis is an accomplished wrestler but Nijem will test him here and prove his mettle.
TS: Then on the other side of the group former Bellator champion Will Brooks takes on tough veteran Kurt Holobaugh.
HY: Brooks has all the tools but Holobaugh is battle tested like few others.
JT: Holobaugh is no nonsense. He is a big spoiler however and someone who is truly capable of surprising people.
DH: This group is the true battle of the battle tested. The winner of this be a real survivor.
Group H Natan Schulte vs. Saul Rogers
Efrain Escudero vs. Sidney Outlaw
HY: This is a very impressive and intriguing group to round out the field!
JT: Schulte and Rogers is a fight full of fight IQ. These two are proven tournament winners who are both tactical, intelligent fighters.
DH: That is going to be a composed and skillful bout. Both these men are good at making you make mistakes and capitalizing.
JM: Then you have a contest between two skilled veterans as Efrain Escudero battles Sidney Outlaw!
TS: That is a fight which promises high pace and high pressure. Those men are relentless.
JK: Plus the prospect of next round matches is fascinating here. Some of these fights will test your brain as much as your brawn.
KF: The winner of this block could definitely go far in this tournament! So there we have it ladies and gentleman. Those are the official groups for our Lightweight tournament. Who will rise? Who will fall? We will find out when the GFL Lightweight tournament begins! So let's take a look at the full cards for our GFL Lightweight tournament opening rounds.
GFL 9 - Abu Dhabi Prelims
Artur Minev (6-0) vs. Christos Giagos (20-12)
Salmat Isbulaev (9-0) vs. Gabriel Benitez (23-12)
Ajsar Khamzaev (5-0) vs. James Llontop (18-7)
Nikita Leshukov (8-0) vs. Michael Dufort (16-6)
Nikita Kulshin (8-0) vs. Nick Fiore (10-2)
Damir Ismagulov (27-3) vs. Rafael Alves (21-12)
Guram Kutateladze (14-5) vs. Kubanychbek Abdisalam Uulu (23-3)
Viacheslav Borshchev (8-7-1) vs. Raul Tutarauli (37-8)
Sayat Abduali (9-0) vs. Myles Jury (19-6)
Gamid Khizriev (4-0) vs. Melvin Guillard (33-24-2)
Abdul-Aziz Abdulvakhabov (19-2) vs. Abdullo Khodzhaev (8-1)
Damian Rzepecki (9-0) vs. Rashid Magomedov (26-6-1)
Rustam Khabilov (24-4) vs. Andrey Goncharov (17-4)
Artem Lobov (14-15-1) vs. Enrique Barzola (23-10-2) Main Card
Mansher Khera (10-0) vs. Jesse Ronson (26-12)
Marcin Held (31-10) vs. Roosevelt Roberts (12-5)
Ramsey Nijem (10-9) vs. Richie Lewis (7-1)
Patricky Pitbull (25-15) vs. Juan Pablo Vieira (9-0)
Alexander Sarnavskiy (44-9) vs. Joe Giannetti (17-7-1)
Will Brooks (26-5-1) vs. Kurt Holobaugh (21-10)
Gary Tonon (9-2) vs. Raush Manfio (17-9)
Ben Henderson (30-12) vs. Eddie Alvarez (29-6)
GFL 10 - Singapore Prelims
Dakota Cochrane (34-13) vs. Clay Collard (25-15)
Austin Hubbard (16-10) vs. Yuji Yannick Ephoeviga (12-2)
John Makdessi (18-9) vs. George Staines (8-0)
Cristian Perez (13-2) vs. Cody McKenzie (17-11)
Lucas Caldas (6-2) vs. Michael Pagani (8-2)
Eduardo Vasquez (9-0) vs. Frank Camacho (22-10)
Salahdine Parnasse (22-2) vs. Alex Da Silva (25-6)
Gabriel Mazzetti (6-1) vs. Ilay Barzilay (7-1)
Harry Webb (5-0) vs. George Sotiropoulos (14-7)
Torpal Merjoev (6-1) vs. Jeremy Stephens (29-22)
Milos Janicic (19-3) vs. Daron Cruickshank (23-14)
Shane Campbell (22-8) vs. Valentin Benishev (19-0)
Vladislav Rudnev (11-0) vs. Kazula Vargas (16-6)
Gregor Gillespie (14-1) vs. Tristan Connelly (14-9)
Joe Lauzon (28-15) vs. Donald Cerrone (36-17) Main Card
Igeu Kabesa (19-3) vs. George Hardwick (14-4)
Efrain Escudero (32-17) vs. Sidney Outlaw (21-6)
Sage Northcutt (12-3) vs. Shonie Carter (51-32-7)
Michael Trizano (10-3) vs. Dakota Bush (15-4)
Natan Schulte (25-5-1) vs. Saul Rogers (15-5)
Diego Sanchez (30-14) vs. Tony Ferguson (25-11)
Gilbert Melendez (22-8) vs. Lowen Tynanes (12-2)
Anthony Pettis (25-14) vs. Clay Guida (38-25)
We begin with a cold open. This focuses on both shots of the arena and the crowd filling in before we get shots of the beautiful Sky line of Abu Dhabi.
MG: Ladies and Gentleman, welcome to Abu Dhabi! and welcome to GFL 9! We are live and the arena is filling up. The fighters are ready. As tonight careers can and will change in a heart beat.
BS: Goldie, this is a card where you got to get here early and I mean early early. The prelims alone are must watch with fighters filled with nothing but finishes.
RB: That's a big thing tonight. It's all about pressure and that's what this region is all about. This region produces fighters who don't just want to win but want to break you. Different cultures and different styles are all colliding under one roof. GFL is planting it's flag on a global stage tonight.
Clips of fighters warming up backstage then shows while we see the line up for the undercard.
MG: You are looking at the ultimate mix of talent. Undefeated prospects, seasoned veterans and dangerous wild cards all sharing the same canvas. Some of these are fighting with everything to gain while others are looking to prove they still belong.
BS: Trust me. When you mix unbeaten prospects with veterans who have been there with everyone. That's when weird stuff happens. We will see knockouts, submissions and dreams getting crushed.
RB: There will be no slow starts tonight or tune up rounds. Every fight on the prelims matters as the GFL audience is watching.
MG: So strap in and grab your snacks as the proving ground starts now. When the prelims begin now!
Artur Miniev (7-0) vs. Christos Giagos (20-12) To open the night undefeated prospect Artur Miniev would take on UFC veteran Christos Giagos. This fight would get off to a blistering start as Artur Miniev would drop Giagos with a big right hand. While Giagos managed to get back to his feet, Miniev never let off the gas and pinned Giagos against the fence. Up close in the fence, Miniev landed several short hooks and uppercuts which put Giagos down for a knockout. Result: Artur Minev (7-0) defeated Christos Giagos (20-13) by knockout in the 1st round (0:59)
Salamat Isbulaev (9-0) vs. Gabriel Benitez (23-12) Undefeated Russian standout Salamat Isbulaev would compete against veteran Gabriel Benitez. Off the back of one quick finish we would see another as Salamat connected with an early spinning back kick to the body of Benitez. This would double over Gabriel and we'd see several follow up strikes landed for a blistering TKO finish. Result: Salamat Isbulaev (10-0) defeated Gabriel Benitez (23-13) by TKO in the 1st round (1:24)
Ansar Khamzaev (5-0) vs. James Llontop (18-7) Another undefeated prospect would be in action in the next bout as Ansar Khamzaev took on UFC veteran James Llontop. In contrast from the first two bouts which were stunningly quick finishes. This would be a much more tepid affair as Ansar elected to initiate his grappling and keep taking the fight down to the canvas where he'd manage to control James Llontop for a unanimous decision verdict. Result: Ansar Khamzaev (6-0) beat James Llontop (18-8) by unanimous decision (30-2 x3)
Nikita Leshukov (8-0) vs. Michael Dufort (16-6) Two talented Lightweight standouts would do battle in the next bout of the night as Nikita Leshukov took on Michael Dufort. This would be a very back and forth technical clash which saw both men provide an impressive, technical display of MMA skills. Following two very close rounds of action, we would see in round three Nikita manage to connect with a heavy series of strikes against Dufort against the cage leading to the official to call for what some would call a premature stop to the contest. Result: Nikita Leshukov (9-0) defeated Michael Dufort (16-7) by TKO in the third round (4:01)
Nikita Kulshin (8-0) vs. Nick Fiore (10-2) Off the back of what was quite the exciting back and forth clash. The next fight of the night would very much be an unfortunate opposite as Nikita Kulshin implemented his highly accomplished wrestling credentials to out grapple and out work veteran Nick Fiore. Much to the frustration of the crowd, this would be a slow and plodding three rounds of non stop wrestling as Kulshin picked up a unanimous decision verdict. Result: Nikita Kulshin (9-0) defeated Nick Fiore (10-3) by unanimous decision (30-2 x3)
Damir Ismagulov (27-3) vs. Rafael Alves (21-12) Two former UFC veterans would do battle in the next bout of the night. This fight would see two polar opposites collide as the wild Rafael Alves took on the more measured Damir Ismagulov. While Rafael Alves would come out aggressive with big wild punches and a variety of unorthodox kicks. He would very much be kept at a distance by a measured striking approach by Ismagulov for a decisive decision. Result: Damir Ismagulov (28-3) defeated Rafael Alves (21-13) by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Guram Kutateladze (14-5) vs. Kubanychbek Abdisalam Uulu (23-3) UFC veteran Guram Kutateladze would battle Kubanychbek Abdisalam Uulu in the next bout of the night. This would be a highly competitive fight from the off with both men displaying very rounded games. On the feet Uulu appeared to have the more power in his hands while Guram seemed to be more successful in the grappling. After three rounds of close back and forth action, the officials would award the fight to Guram by split decision. Result: Guram Kutateladze (15-5) defeated Kubanychbek Abdisalam Uulu (23-4) by split decision (29-28 x2 - 28-29)
Viacheslav Borshchev (8-7-1) vs. Raul Tutarauli (37-8) Another former UFC veteran in action would be Viacheslav Borschev. Unfortunately for Borschev this was not the GFL debut he would have hoped for as he took on veteran Raul Tutarauli. The veteran would punish Borschev on the feet and on the canvas as he dropped Borschev early and stayed in top position where he punished Borschev with punches and elbows for an early TKO stoppage victory. Result: Raul Tutarauli (38-8) defeated Viacheslav Borschev (8-8-1) by TKO in the 1st round (1:56)
Sayat Abduali (9-0) vs. Myles Jury (19-6) The next bout of the night would be a highly anticipated clash as Sayat Abduali looked to maintain his unbeaten record against former top ranked prospect Myles Jury. For the majority of this fight we would see Myles Jury control his opponent with his top game and wrestling ability. In a shock counter however late in the third round Sayat would catch Myles in a standing guillotine and make the risky decision to jump guard with it for a submission! Result: Sayat Abduali (10-0) defeated Myles Jury (19-7) by submission (Guillotine choke) in the 3rd round (4:38)
Gamid Khizriev (4-0) vs. Melvin Guillard (33-24-2) Former TUF contestant and UFC veteran Melvin Guillard would take on undefeated prospect Gamid Khizriev. Sadly while Melvin in what was called his last fight was looking to go out on a win. He'd swiftly be dropped by a big overhand punch which dropped Melvin to the mat. From here, Gamid took the back of Melvin and begin to land several follow up punches on the ground for an early TKO finish. Result: Gamid Khizriev (5-0) defeated by Melvin Guillard (33-25-2) by TKO in the 1st round (1:06)
Abdul-Aziz Abdulvakhabov (19-2) vs. Abdullo Khodzhaev (8-1) Two top prospects would then do battle in the next bout of the night as Abdul Aziz Abdulvakhabov would take on Abdullo Khodzhaev. While many would have expected a technical, close clash between the duo. Instead to the pleasant surprise of everyone what we got instead was a back and forth war of attrition as these two slugged it out for all 15 minutes until the final bell where Khodzhaev would be awarded the decision. Result: Abdullo Khodzhaev (9-1) defeated Abdul-Aziz Abdulvakhabov (19-3) by split decision (29-28, 28-29 and 30-27)
Damian Rzepecki (9-0) vs. Rashid Magomedov (26-6-1) Another top prospect would compete in the biggest fight of his career in the next bout of the night as Damian Rzepecki took on Rashid Magomedov. This would be a very dominant showing at first for the veteran as he picked Damian off on the feet for the majority of the opening round and second round. However one bad decision would be all it took for Damian to catch Rashid in a triangle choke off a sloppy takedown for the win. Result: Damian Rzepecki (10-0) defeated Rashid Magomedov (26-7-1) by 2nd round (3:46) submission (Triangle Choke)
Rustam Khabilov (24-4) vs. Andrey Goncharov (17-4) A clash between veterans looking for their next big win would be the next contest of the night as UFC and Bellator veteran Rustam Khabilov battled Andrey Goncharov. Unfortunately for the crowd in attendance who may have expected this to be a high action battle. Instead this contest was paramount to a sheer grappling showcase for Rustam Khabilov who would trip Andrey throughout the bout and hold top position for a decision. Result: Rustam Khabilov (25-4) defeated Andrey Goncharov (17-5) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Artem Lobov (14-15-1) vs. Enrique Barzola (23-10-2) The final bout of the prelims would be one last clash between UFC and ultimate fighter veterans as Artem Lobov battled Enrique Barzola. This would be a dominant showing for Enrique as he very much battered Artem Lobov on the feet. To his credit Lobov would manage to survive and eat some big shots across all three rounds. However despite his survival and impressive chin, it wouldn't stop Barzola claiming a unanimous decision. Result: Enrique Barzola (24-10-2) defeated Artem Lobov (14-16-1) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
A cinematic open then begins and it focuses on Yas Island at Night. With the arena lights shining bright and a packed crowd in attendance we see clips of fighters still warming up ahead of their fights tonight. Standing in the cage is a smiling Dasha Gonzalez as she prepares to open the main card.
DG: Abu Dhabi.. Are you ready?
There is a loud cheer from the crowd as Dasha continues.
DG: Good evening and welcome to GFL 9. We are live from the capital of combat sports as tonight the worlds best Lightweights collide under the bright lights. We have undefeated prospects, seasoned veterans and legends of the sport all stepping into the cage with everything on the line.
MG: Thank you Dasha. And welcome to what promises to be an unforgettable night of action here in Abu Dhabi. The prelims set the tone for the night but now the stakes rise as the main card takes center stage. Tonight is about statements and momentum. It's all about who leaves this building one step closer to greatness.
BS: Yeah Goldie, this is where it gets real. Like look at this line up. You have grapplers who collect limes, strikers who just need one shot and warriors who have fought the best the sport has to offer. Nobody here is coasting tonight.
RB: What makes this special is the location. Abu Dhabi is the proving ground for elite Lightweights. These fighters have not come here for an easy night. They have come here to test themselves against the sharpest weapons in the division.
MG: Our main event tonight will see two battle tested warriors do battle for the very first time. As Ben Henderson and Eddie Alvarez will collide with history, pride and legacy on the line!
BS: That is not a nostalgia fight either. These two can still battle it out like no other.
RB: And before we get there we have a line up designed to test the future. By the time we get to the main event seven other fighters may have stamped their ticket in this tournament.
MG: So wherever you are watching around the world. This is the GFL 9 live from Abu Dhabi and the main card starts now!
Mansher Khera (10-0) vs. Jesse Ronson (26-12) The first match in the GFL lightweight tournament would see undefeated finisher Mansher Khera face his biggest challenge to date in his young career as he took on veteran Jesse Ronson. Aware of his opponents finishing instincts Jesse Ronson would quickly look to take this bout to the canvas and at points would clinch with Khera against the cage in an effort to wear down his opponent. However the explosiveness of Khera would be the difference maker as he dropped Ronson in the middle of the second round with a short elbow in the clinch and followed up with several strikes on the ground for a TKO finish. Result: Mansher Khera (11-0) defeated Jesse Ronson (26-13) by TKO in the second round (3:46)
Marcin Held (31-10) vs. Roosevelt Roberts (12-5) Bellator, PFL and UFC veteran Marcin Held would find himself with a tough opponent in the next bout of the evening as he took on rangy UFC veteran Roosevelt Roberts. Aware of his opponents' prolific submission game, Roberts came into this fight with a near perfect game plan to utilize his reach and keep Held at bay. This game plan would prove fruitful in the early goings of the opening round but it was one mistake by Roberts which cost him as Held dived for his legs and clamped on a heel hook for a submission victory. Result: Marcin Held (32-10) defeated Roosevelt Roberts (12-6) by submission (heel hook) in the 1st round (2:54)
Ramsey Nijem (10-9) vs. Richie Lewis (7-1) Standout wrestler Richie Lewis would take on UFC and ultimate fighter veteran Ramsey Nijem in the biggest fight of his career to date. This would be a big showcase for Lewis as in the early going he chose to box with Nijem and actually did some damage with an impressive straight. Yet later in the fight we'd see Lewis employ his wrestling and easily get Nijem to the canvas where he wasted little time in employing ground and pound for a TKO stoppage. Result: Richie Lewis (8-1) defeated Ramsey Nijem (10-10) by TKO in the 1st round (3:59)
Patricky Pitbull (25-15) vs. Juan Pablo Vieira (9-0) Former Bellator Lightweight Champion and PFL veteran Patricky Pitbull took on undefeated standout Juan Pablo Vieira in the next fight of the night. As one might expect from him Patricky was all aggression in this fight and at points he was charging wildly at Juan as he threw every shot from the off with bad intention. In a big shocking moment however early in the first round Vieira would catch a lunging Pitbull with a counter left for a flash knockout finish! Result: Juan Pablo Vieira (10-0) defeated Patricky Pitbull (25-16) by Knockout in the 1st round (1:32)
Alexander Sarnavskiy (44-9) vs. Joe Giannetti (17-7-1) Off the back of some exciting finishes, the next bout of the night sadly would break that trend. As when Bellator veteran Alexander Sarnavskiy took on Bellator veteran Joe Giannetti. This would instead be a slow paced grappling clinic as Alexander kept taking Joe down and holding him down. Giannetti despite having grappling ability himself was no match for Sarnavskiy who at first appeared content to ride the decision. Yet in the third round Alex opened up with some ground and pound including a big elbow which opened a cut on Joe for a doctor stoppage. Result: Alexander Sarnavskiy (45-9) defeated Joe Giannetti (17-8-1) by Doctor Stoppage in the third round (3:01)
Will Brooks (26-5-1) vs. Kurt Holobaugh (21-10) Former Bellator Champion Will Brooks would take on Ultimate fighter winner and UFC veteran Kurt Holobaugh in the next bout. This contest would very much be a showcase for Will Brooks as not only did he punish Holobaugh on the feet with heavy punches and kicks but completely dominated him on the ground. This included surviving a couple of guillotine attempts which Brooks shrugged off with ease enroute to a decision victory. Result: Will Brooks (27-5-1) defeated Kurt Holobaugh (21-11) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Garry Tonon (9-2) vs. Raush Manfio (17-9) The Co-Main event of the night would see grappling ace Garry Tonon take on PFL veteran and champion Raush Manfio. While some may have expected this bout to a back and forth battle or a test for Tonon. Instead this contest was a very one sided bout with Tonon not only doling out punishment on the feet but he'd also drop Manfio following a knee in the first. Once the fight hit the canvas it was all Tonon as he secured a rear naked choke for the submission. Result: Garry Tonon (10-2) defeated Raush Manfio (17-10) by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) in the 1st round (3:09)
Ben Henderson (30-12) vs. Eddie Alvarez (29-6) The highly anticipated main event would see former UFC and WEC Champion Ben Henderson take on former UFC and Bellator Champion Eddie Alvarez. This would be a back and forth battle from the opening bell as each man had their game plans. Alvarez would prove more successful in landing damaging punches while Henderson was a little more effective with his leg kicks and grappling. After three rounds of action it would be Henderson who was awarded a split decision. Result: Ben Henderson (31-12) defeated Eddie Alvarez (29-7) by split decision (29-28, 27-30, 30-27)
We open with a shot of the Marina Bay skyline at night. The Neon reflections on the water spliced with training quick cuts while drums build under electronic music.
MG: From the heard of Southeast Asia. Under the lights of one of the most electric cities in the world. We welcome you to Singapore. Tonight it's GFL 10 and if Abu Dhabi was about prestige, Singapore is about precision. As our next wave of Lightweights look to make their statement on a global stage.
BS: Goldie this is my kind of card. It is filled with fast, technical and hungry fighters. The fans tonight, they know the sport and they appreciate the little details. I mean look at these prelims these are guys who know they want to make a statement. They know that while the spotlight comes later tonight. They have a chance to steal it early.
RB: There is a different energy here. Calm, focused and surgical. These prelims tonight they are more than just a warm up for the fans in attendance. Thy are opportunities and auditions. This is your chance to show match makers they made a mistake not putting them in the tournament. This is your chance to show you are worthy of fighting in higher stakes in bigger positions.
MG: This sport is all about momentum. A dominant performance tonight can shape your career. With a division this stacked with talent every second matters!
BS: You don't want to blink with this card. These dudes are explosive. One mistake, scramble or counter and it could be over.
RB: As hot as it was in Abu Dhabi. It will only be more heated tonight.
MG: So ladies and Gentleman, strap in wherever you are watching as the Lightweight tournament continues tonight. This is GFL 10 and the prelims start now!
Dakota Cochrane (34-13) vs. Clay Collard (25-15) To open the preliminary card two veterans would face off as Bellator and BKFC veteran Dakota Cochrane took on UFC and PFL standout Clay Collard. It was no surprise this bout was chosen to open the show with both men known for their aggressive and gritty styles. This fight would very much live up to both men's standards as we saw a gritty, back and forth battle over the course of the three rounds before Clay Collard would be awarded a split decision. Result: Clay Collard (26-15) defeated Dakota Cochrane (34-14) by split decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)
Austin Hubbard (16-10) vs. Yuji Yannick Ephoeviga (12-2) Off the back of what was a gritty war of attrition, we'd see the next bout be a very stark contrast. As Japanese grappling ace Yuji Yannick Ephoeviga took on UFC veteran Austin Hubbard. This fight would very much be more akin to a chess match with a lot of chain grappling as despite being on his back for the majority of the fight, Yuji would look for submissions and sweeps. After three rounds of action, it would be Hubbard who was awarded a surprising decision victory. Result: Austin Hubbard (17-10) defeated Yuji Yannick Ephoeviga (12-3) by split decision (30-27, 29-28, 28-29)
John Makdessi (18-9) vs. George Staines (8-0) UFC veteran John Makdessi and Cage Warriors prospect George Staines would do battle in the third fight of the evening. This fight would be purely contested on the feet with John Makdessi proving to have the more technical style as he landed the cleaner and more precise shots. But what Staines would lack in perhaps technical ability. He made up for in aggression and power as he'd rock and even drop Makdessi on his way to a unanimous decision. Result: George Staines (9-0) defeated John Makdessi (18-10) by unanimous decision (29-28)
Cristian Perez (13-2) vs. Cody McKenzie (17-11) UFC and Ultimate fighter veteran Cody McKenzie would be in action against prospect Christian Perez. Despite McKenzie's big match experience this was a dominant showing for Perez who wasted little time securing a big takedown on Cody McKenzie to take this fight to the ground. From here Perez would negate McKenzie's attempts for a submission before clamping on a tight arm triangle choke to pick up the submission victory. Result: Christian Perez (14-2) defeated Cody McKenzie (17-12) by submission (arm triangle choke) in the 1st round (1:32)
Lucas Caldas (6-2) vs. Michael Pagani (8-2) Two talented rising prospects would collide in the next bout of the night as Lucas Caldas and Michael Pagani did battle. While on paper many expected this to be a back and forth clash, we'd see in a shock early in the fight Michael Pagani land a big head kick which put Caldas on skates. With Caldas badly rocked, it didn't take long for Pagani to drop him with a straight for a knockout victory. Result: Michael Pagani (9-2) defeated Lucas Caldas (6-3) by knockout in the 1st round (3:14)
Eduardo Vazquez (9-0) vs. Frank Camacho (22-10) UFC veteran Frank Camacho would be in action in the next fight of the evening as he took on undefeated prospect Eduardo Vazquez. This fight would be a dominant showing for the undefeated standout as it seemed very early that every shot he landed on Camacho would hurt him badly. After dropping Camacho on a couple of occasions Vasquez would trap Camacho in the clinch and land several knees for a crushing knockout! Result: Eduardo Vazquez (10) defeated Frank Camacho (22-11) by knockout in the 1st round (2:56)
Salahdine Parnasse (22-2) vs. Alex Da Silva (25-6) Two fighters who had been very vocal this week about not being apart of the GFL lightweight tournament would do battle in the next match of the night as UFC veteran Alex Da Silva battled KSW Lightweight Champion Salahdine Parnasse. This would be a very dominant showing for the KSW Champion as not only did he rock Alex Da Silva on the feet on two separate occasions but he'd also control the grappling for a unanimous decision. Result: Salahdine Parnasse (23-2) defeated Alex Da Silva (25-7) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Gabriel Mazzetti (6-1) vs. Ilay Barzilay (7-1) Two talented prospects would do battle in the next bout of the evening and this fight would very much be a case of a tale of two stories. When this fight was contested on the feet, we'd see Ilay Barzilay manage to connect with the more precise strikes. At the same time when the fight would hit the canvas we would see Gabriel Mazzetti very much control the fight. Once this fight reached the score cards it would be Mazzetti who was awarded a decision. Result: Gabriel Mazzetti (7-1) defeated Ilay Barzilay (7-2) by split decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)
Harry Webb (5-0) vs. George Sotiropoulos (14-7) A once ranked UFC contender and ultimate fighter veteran George Sotiropoulos would take on undefeated standout Harry Webb. This bout would be a big showcase for Harry Webb in his young career as he wasted little time landing a big left uppercut followed by a right cross to the chin. This would drop George to the canvas and several hammer fists would follow for a blisteringly quick knockout victory. Result: Harry Webb (6-0) defeated George Sotiropoulos (14-8) by knockout (0:31)
Torpal Merjoev (6-1) vs. Jeremy Stephens (29-22) Top prospect Torpal Merjoev would face his most experienced and dangerous opponent to date as he took on heavy handed UFC slugger Jeremy Stephens. For this fight Torpal clearly had a solid game plan to look to initiate the grappling and get his opponent to the ground. While this game plan would prove successful in the early going we'd see Torpal get more reckless with his takedown attempts and Stephens would manage to connect with an uppercut as Torpal lunged in leading him to face plan the ground for a TKO finish. Result: Jeremy Stephens (30-22) defeated Torpal Merjoev (6-2) by TKO in the 1st round (2:42)
Milos Janicic (19-3) vs. Daron Cruickshank (23-14) The next fight of the night would very much be a different story from the last group of fights we'd seen this evening. As Kickboxer Milos Janicic and UFC veteran Daron Cruickshank very much engaged in a technical kickboxing match with little interest in the other areas of MMA. Both men would have their moments in the three rounds of this fight before we'd head to the scorecards where the judges awarded the close bout to Janicic. Result: Milos Janicic (20-3) defeated Daron Cruickshank (23-15) by Split decision (30-27, 28-29, 30-27)
Shane Campbell (22-8) vs. Valentin Benishev (19-0) Highly regarded undefeated prospect Valentin Benishev would return to the cage after a 3 year break to take on UFC and PFL veteran Shane Campbell. This would be a highly dominant showing for Benishev who hadn't missed a step as he took down and controlled Campbell at will for the duration of the three rounds. As the fight ticked down and we had 90 seconds left, Campbell would manage to get to his feet and in a shocking moment would connect with a spin kick to the jaw which dropped Benishev to the canvas. A couple of follow up strikes followed for a stunning TKO finish! Result: Shane Campbell (23-8) defeated Valentin Benishev (19-1) by TKO in round 3 (4:19)
Vladislav Rudnev (11-0) vs. Kazula Vargas (16-6) UFC veteran Kazula Vargas would be in action against undefeated prospect Vladislav Rudnev. This would be a swift and dominant showcase for Rudnev who started the fight early by dropping Vargas with a straight. From here Rudnev never let up and kept pressing the action before he'd land a big right cross and several follow up punches for a 1st round TKO finish. Result: Vladislav Rudnev (12-0) defeated Kazula Vargas (16-7) by TKO in the 1st round (0:55)
Gregor Gillespie (14-1) vs. Tristan Connelly (14-9) Two veterans would collide in the next bout of the night as Gregor Gillespie took on Tristan Connelly. While fans may have hoped for a back and forth fight between this pair, we would instead see a grappling heavy bout as Gregor Gillespie instead used his wrestling to take down and control Tristan Connelly for a unanimous decision verdict. Result: Gregor Gillespie (15-1) defeated Tristan Connelly (14-10) by unanimous decision
Joe Lauzon (28-15) vs. Donald Cerrone (36-17) The final bout on the prelims would be a clash between two popular and exciting Lightweight veterans Joe Lauzon and Donald Cerrone. This would be a styles clash from the off with Lauzon very much looking to take his opponent down to the canvas while Cerrone looked to keep his distance and strike from range. It would be Cerrone who had the success implementing his game as he kept the bout standing and landed a big headkick to drop Joe for a knockout result. Result: Donald Cerrone (37-17) defeated Joe Lauzon (28-16) by knockout in the 1st round (3:18)
Opening Cinematic: Marina Bay sands skyline is growing as we get recaps from the prelims and of the GFL 9 event. The GFL theme plays as we see crowd shots before settling on the cage where Dasha is standing by.
DG: Singapore.. Are you ready?
The crowd erupts as Dasha continues.
DG: Good evening and welcome to GFL 10 Live from the Singapore Indoor stadium. Tonight we continue our Lightweight foray as the world's most dangerous talents continue to march forward to greatness. The atmosphere is electric and the stakes are rising. In moments the GFL main card begins!
MG: Thank you Dasha and welcome everyone watching around the world. Abu Dhabi set the tone in this tonight but tonight the intensity reaches another level. The lightweight division will continue to prove it maybe the deepest in combat sports.
BS: Goldie, this is where it gets serious. The prelims were wild but now we have the names and the contenders.
RB: There is a precision here. A sharpness and that mirrors the fighters we are about to see. These are fighters who don't waste motion. Every bout will inch someone closer to title contention.
MG: For Brendan Schaub and Robin Black. I am Mike Goldberg and this is GFL 10. The Main card and Lightweight tournament begins now! Igeu Kabesa (19-3) vs. George Hardwick (14-4) Opening today's main card show would be a clash between South Africa and England. As we'd see powerful striker Igeu Kabesa take on the more technical kickboxer George Hardwick. The contrast on the feet here would be very prominent as while he wasn't an active striker when Igeu threw it was with power. Hardwick meanwhile was more active as he used his technical kickboxing to outland Igeu. After three rounds of action it was Hardwick who was awarded a split decision verdict. Result: George Hardwick (15-4) defeated Igeu Kabesa (19-4) by split decision (29-28, 28-29 and 30-27)
Efrain Escudero (32-17) vs. Sidney Outlaw (21-6) Off the back of a striking battle our next bout would see Mexican UFC veteran and Ultimate fighter winner Efrain Escudero take on Bellator veteran Sidney Outlaw. Quickly this fight would prove to be a grappling match as Outlaw wasted no time securing a takedown and top position. With his controlling and smothering game, it was only a matter of time before Outlaw secured a tight arm triangle choke for the submission. Result: Sidney Outlaw (22-6) defeated Efrain Escudero (32-18) by submission (arm triangle) in the 1st round (2:42)
Sage Northcutt (12-3) vs. Shonie Carter (51-32-7) Two UFC veterans would collide in the next bout of the night as rising standout Sage Northcutt battled the highly unpredictable, wily veteran Shonie Carter. While Carter looked to turn back the clock as he threw a wild spinning back fist to start. He would soon be swarmed by Sage Northcutt following a knee to the body. This folded Carter and we'd see several punches and elbows thrown for a TKO finish. Result: Sage Northcutt (13-3) defeated Shonie Carter (51-33-7) by TKO (1:05)
Michael Trizano (10-3) vs. Dakota Bush (15-4) UFC veterans would collide once more in the next fight as Ultimate Fighter winner Michael Trizano took on Dakota Bush. This would very much be an even bout for the first two rounds as these two fighters engaged in a clinch heavy battle. During the third round however we'd see a big turning point as Dakota Bush hurt Trizano badly and actually dropped him on his way to earning a unanimous decision. Result: Dakota Bush (16-4) defeated Michael Trizano (10-4) by unanimous decision (29-28 x2, 30-27)
Natan Schulte (25-5-1) vs. Saul Rogers (15-5) Former PFL Champion Natan Schulte would take on Bellator veteran Saul Rogers in the next bout. This fight would very much be a slow plodding affair as Rogers looked to press Schulte against the cage in order to secure a takedown. This would lead to a lot of moments of inactivity as Schulte managed to defend. During exchanges on the feet Natan would land the cleaner shots and this appeared to be the swaying point for the decision. Result: Natan Schulte (26-5-1) defeated Saul Rogers (15-6) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Diego Sanchez (30-14) vs. Tony Ferguson (25-11) A highly anticipated clash between two former Ultimate fighter winners and two of the wilder men in the sport followed. As for the first time ever Diego Sanchez and Tony Ferguson would do battle. Charging forwards as one might expect Diego Sanchez came out swinging in this fight as he looked to hurt Tony. This would be until Tony caught Diego rushing in with a short elbow strike which dropped Sanchez and we'd see several follow up punches for a TKO finish. Result: Tony Ferguson (26-11) defeated Diego Sanchez (30-15) by TKO in the 1st round (2:56)
Gilbert Melendez (22-8) vs. Lowen Tynanes (12-2) The co-main event of the evening would see Strikeforce champion Gilbert Melendez take on One FC veteran Lowen Tynanes. Much to the disappointment of the crowd in attendance this fight turned into a very grappling and wrestling heavy bout as Lowen Tynanes kept pressing forward and securing takedowns to keep Gilbert Melendez held down on the canvas on his way to a unanimous decision victory. Result: Lowen Tynanes (13-2) defeated Gilbert Melendez (22-9) by Unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Anthony Pettis (25-14) vs. Clay Guida (38-25) The main event of the evening would be a long awaited rematch as UFC and WEC champion Anthony Pettis looked to avenge a past defeat against Clay Guida. Seeking to continue his game plan from last time Clay Guida would aggressively charge forward in an effort to secure a takedown. This time however Guida's game plan would be well scouted as Pettis would catch him in an early triangle choke for a submission victory. Result: Anthony Pettis (26-14) defeated Clay Guida (38-26) by submission (Triangle choke) in the 1st round (1:28)
MG: Ladies and Gentleman, welcome to the GFL Featherweight Bracketology. Tonight we begin to reveal the names who will compete in one of the most dynamic events in all of combat sports. Featherweights are known for pace, volume and creativity and in this tournament only one will rise!
BS: This division is cazy. It is where cardio meets violence. You can't coast and you can't stall. If you blink you are down two rounds!
RB: Stylistically this is where art meets chaos. The featherweight division produces technicians and wild men. Thats what makes this tournament so interesting.
MG: So with that said lets head to Alex for our first batch of entrants.
AW: Thank you Mike! It's great to be back for our next tournament unveiling. We start tonight with a former WSOF champion. A dominant wrestler with relentless control. He is Andre "The Bull" Harrison!
MG: What a way to start! A former champion and tournament winner. When he is switched on, he dictates everything!
BS: He's strong man. Harrison lives up to his nickname of the Bull. If he gets on top of you in a tournament setting.. It's a long night for anyone!
RB: Harrison is a tempo thief. He takes away your rhythm and replaces it with his!
AW: Our second entrant is a UFC veteran and former ultimate fighter competitor. On top of this he has participated and fought in Bare Knuckle FC... Jason Knight!
MG: This is an all action fighter! Knight is a pressure fighter who brings it every time!
BS: He doesn't care about being pretty. He cares about winning at all costs and it makes him so hard to predict.
RB: This guy thrives in chaos. The more wild things get, the more alive he becomes!
AW: For our third entrant in the GFL tournament, we have a special guest on hand for the introduction. He is a former WEC champion and one of the founding fathers of the lighter weight classes.. Urijah Faber!
(Appearing on the screen from Team Alpha Male, is the California Kid who is met with a rousing response.)
MG: Urijah my old friend. Welcome to the GFL!
UF: It is my pleasure to be here Mike. I'm so happy to be here to announce the next entrant to the GFL will be my friend.. My brother. He is a two time title contender in the UFC.. Chad "Money" Mendes!
MG: What an entrant this is to the GFL. He's explosive and battle tested and the experience Mendes has is crucial in this setting!
BS: Not too mention the power he posses. Mendes' punches are still terrifying.
RB: Mendes represents a previous era of Featherweight excellence. Compact power and elite wrestling
AW: for our forth entrant into the GFL Featherweight tournament we go across the pond for a former Cage Warriors Featherweight champion and UFC veteran.. Jordan Vucenic!
MG: now this is a pleasant surprise. A dynamic new generation fighter!
RB: this kid is slick. He is so well rounded.
BS: He's highly adaptable and that adaptability is a tournament winner!
AW: Our sixth entrant is a former BRAVE Featherweight champion as well as a PFL veteran. He is an elite level wrestler with a championship pedigree... Bubba Jenkins!
BS: Man! Wrestling travels in tournaments. This guy is dangerous!
MG: High level NCAA wrestling. Bubba Jenkins is a real threat here!
RB: Bubba knows how to compress space. Before you know it you are in his clutches. He is a dangerous threat for sure.
AW: To round out our first group of eight. We have an ultimate fighter veteran as well as PFL standout Tyler Diamond!
MG: This is a tournament favorite for sure. Diamond brings intensity every time he steps in the cage!
RB: He's tough as nails. You will not have an easy night with Tyler.
BS: He thrives in attrition. Truly the perfect fighter for this setting.
MG: We are a quarter of the way in and already this field is stacked.
BS: There are no easy matches here.
RB: This is not a tournament of comfort. It is one of survival.
MG: We will be back soon for the next wave of announcements. But before then here is the current tournament listing
Featherweight Tournament Participants
1. Andre "The Bull" Harrison (22-4-1)
2. Jason "The Kid" Knight (22-7)
3. Chad "Money" Mendes (18-5)
4. Jordan "The Epidemic" Vucenic (14-4)
5. Charles "Boston Strong" Rosa (18-8)
6. Bubba "Bad Man" Jenkins (21-9)
7. Alexander Loof (8-4)
8. Tyler Diamond (14-4)
MG: Ladies and Gentleman, welcome back as the GFL Featherweight tournament. We are a quarter of a way through the introductions and after this wave, we will be at the halfway point. So let's head to Alex for the next batch of introductions.
AW: For the third time we then go to Europe and this time France. As Entrant eleven we have an elite kickboxer and Muay Thai specialist Dylan Salvador.
MG: We have an elite level striker entering the field here.
BS: This man is the real deal on the feet. Punches, elbows, kicks and knees he can do it all!
RB: This man is all about controlled violence. He's efficient and punishing.
AW: For entrant number thirteen we have a very special guest on hand to do the announcement. Please welcome actor Frank Grillo!
(Frank Grillo appears on the screen from his car)
MG: Frank! Welcome to the GFL.
FG: It's great to be apart of this. I'm a big fight fan and when I was asked to be apart of this I didn't hesitate in saying yes. Especially when I was asked to introduce a friend. As an actor we grew up on tales in Hollywood such as Rocky. The underdog tale. This includes my close friend looking for his one last run at the big one. So please welcome Joe "Daddy" Stevenson!
MG: Joe Daddy! Now this is a surprise. A true legend of the game who brings a wealth of experience and knowledge.
RB: Joe is old school tough. He won't be bullied by anyone!
BS: So savvy on the ground. Plus he has the spirit of an earlier era with his grit and toughness!
MG: Welcome back to the GFL Featherweight Bracketology event. We currently know half the field set to compete and very shortly we will know the next batch of 8 competitors. So without further a do lets head to Alex for our next announcements.
AW: Our thirtieth entrant is a UFC veteran and former UFC Champion. One of the most popular lighter weight fighters in the sport who has beaten the likes of BJ Penn, Yair Rodriguez and Gray Maynard.. Frankie Edgar!
MG: Oh my goodness! The Answer is back!
BS: A true legend of the game. Cardio and heart for days. Edgar always comes in ready to fight.
RB: One of my all time favorites to watch. His battles are iconic!
AW: Our final entrant is a Bellator veteran and on of the most polarizing figures in the sport.. James Gallagher!
MG: This young man brings flair and grappling danger.
BS: He believes is the best in the world. That belief matters
RB: He fights with identity and that is powerful in this setting.
MG: So now we have the full tournament field lined out. We will be back soon for the announcements of the opening round!
Featherweight Tournament Participants
1. Andre "The Bull" Harrison (22-4-1)
2. Jason "The Kid" Knight (22-7)
3. Chad "Money" Mendes (18-5)
4. Jordan "The Epidemic" Vucenic (14-4)
5. Charles "Boston Strong" Rosa (18-8)
6. Bubba "Bad Man" Jenkins (21-9)
7. Alexander Loof (8-4)
8. Tyler Diamond (14-4)
9. Alex "Bruce Leroy" Caceres (21-15)
10. Hakeem "Mean" Dawodu (14-4-1)
11. Dylan Salvador (6-2)
12. Timur "Lucky" Valiev (19-5)
13. Joe "Daddy" Stevenson (33-16)
14. Luan "Juruna" Pedroso (12-4)
15. Emmanuel "Matador" Sanchez (24-11)
16. Gray "The Bully" Maynard (13-7-1)
17. Chris "The Long Island Killer" Wade (23-10)
18. Leandro "Alter" Higo (23-7)
19. Ross "The Real Deal" Pearson (20-17)
20. Tywan "Air" Claxton (8-3)
21. Diego "DB" Brandao (32-22)
22. Quang "Bang" Le (9-3)
23. Nik Bagley (8-1)
24. Lance "The Party" Palmer (23-8)
25. Dustin "Scrappy" Lampros (10-2)
26. Hunter Azure (13-4)
27. Julio Arce (21-6)
28. Maike "The Viking" Linhares (20-3)
29. Kai "Fighting Hawaiian" Kamaka III (17-7-1)
30. Frankie "The Answer" Edgar (24-11-1)
31. Lucas "Mineiro" Martins (22-7)
32. James "The Strabanimal" Gallagher (13-3)
MG: Welcome back to the GFL Bracketology event. We now know the impressive line up of thirty two featherweight fighters who will all by vying to be crowned the GFL Featherweight Champion. I'd now like to hand over to our guest panel to announce the opening round brackets. We start with a man no stranger to MMA tournaments, and a former two time title challenger Kenny Florian. We then follow with another former UFC title contender Dan Hardy as well as former Strikeforce Lightweight champion Josh Thompson. From there we have women's MMA pioneer Julie Kedzie and refereeing pioneer John McCarthy. We round out our panel with journalists Helen Yee and the Schmo.
KF: Thank you Mike. So lets get down to business and find out the opening round matches of the GFL Featherweight tournament.
GROUP A Joe Stevenson vs. Frankie Edgar
Charles Rosa vs. Leandro Higo
JM: Group A is veteran heavy. There is big experience here everywhere you look.
JT: Stevenson and Edgar many years ago would have been a main event on many cards. That's a gritty grind of a battle.
DH: Edgar's footwork against Stevenson's pressure is fascinating.
JK: Experience will be a dominating factor in this group. Edgar's moment alone changes the group.
HY: Then on the other side Higo and Rosa is a submission war.
TS: Higo is all technique on the ground but Rosa is pure chaos. This is going to be fascinating.
KF: When this field was announced I was hard pressed to think of someone who could compete with the grappling of Higo. Yet now we have a true opportunist in Rosa who is more than game.
GROUP B Jason Knight vs. Alex Caceres
Jordan Vucenic vs. Dylan Salvador
KF: Wow! This is a group which promises chaos and unpredictability!
DH: Knight and Caceres is a gritty styles clash if there ever was one.
JM: Caceres is a highly creative fighter on the feet and the mat while Knight is the personification of grit and toughness.
TS: Both of those men bring the show. They are the perfect fighters for this setting.
HY: Then on the other side of the field we have a clash between England and France as Jordan Vucenic battles Dylan Salvador.
JT: Salvador is so refined on the feet. You have to be careful with him in striking situations.
JK: Vucenic is for me a true darkhorse in this tournament. This fight is one to watch.
GROUP C Emmanuel Sanchez vs. Kai Kamaka III
Lance Palmer vs. Lucas Martins
JM: A stark contrast from the last group. This isn't chaos it's technique.
JK: Sanchez and Kamaka is going to be a sprint. Those two push the pace like few can.
DH: Sanchez has world class experience. He knows how to steal a win better than anyone.
KF: Then Palmer vs Martins. That is wrestling vs striking. A story as old as MMA.
TS: Martins is vicious. He is more than a striker though. He does have legit submission skill.
HY: Yet Palmer is one of the most accomplished fighters in the tournament. He is a fighter who knows how to win.
JT: Palmer has big time tournament experience. That will be invaluable here. He is the one to beat in this group.
GROUP D Chris Wade vs. Maike Linhares
Tywan Claxton vs. Diego Brandao
TS: What an eclectic group we have here. Explosiveness for days in one fight and then a vicious finisher against a skilled wrestler.
HY: I'm going to say it. Claxton and Brandao will not last long.
JT: Those are two violent and explosive individuals. Someone is going to sleep there big time.
KF: That is literally going to be a case of who lands the big shot first!
JM: Then on the other side of the coin we have who in my opinion is a top seed in this tournament Maike Linhares taking on Chris Wade.
DH: Linhares is a bad fight for a lot of people. But we can't discredit the skill or experience Chris Wade brings.
JK: Wade will need to stick to his wrestling here. He has big time tournament experience as well in his favor.
GROUP E Ross Pearson vs. Nik Bagley
Quang Le vs. Julio Arce
DH: what a way to start group E then with a clash of countrymen as Ross Pearson takes on Nik Bagley. This is the biggest fight of Bagley's career.
JT: Pearson may not be in his prime but he still is one of the best boxers in this tournament.
HY: Bagley however is a brute. He bullies everyone down to the mat.
JM: Then we have Arce and Le. That fight is going to be a technical kickboxing match on the feet.
TS: That is a perfect match for both men. They don't have to worry about takedown threats here.
KF: The draw has really favored the pair in this. We will truly see who the better man is on the feet.
JK: This group for me is the tactics group. It is going to be a case of who executes their game best.
GROUP F Alexander Loof vs. Luan Pedroso
Hakeem Dawodu vs. Timur Valiev
KF: This is the round which truly emphasizes the Global Fight League. The best fighters from all over.
JT: Loof and Luan is an interesting fight. Loof will have a lot to prove against Pedroso.
JK: That fight will all come down to if Luan decides to shoot. As he could change the fight in an instant.
HY: Then on the other side we have striking against grappling as Dawodu takes on Valiev.
TS: I tell you. Timur Valiev may be the favorite in this tournament!
DH: Valiev is an elite level fighter but Dawodu has game changing power.
JM: In my opinion this is the deepest group we have got so far.
GROUP G Chad Mendes vs. Gray Maynard
Bubba Jenkins vs. Dustin Lampros
JT: Mendes vs. Maynard. That is a brutal clash between powerful wrestlers.
DH: That fight is like a mirror image. Two stud wrestlers with power in their hands.
TS: That fight is experience overload. Both these men have been in the biggest fights under the brightest lights.
JK: Then on the other side of the coin we have Bubba Jenkins against Dustin Lampros.
JM: Lampros has the potential to play a major spoiler here. As Jenkins has been tabbed as a favorite.
HY: Jenkins is a stud wrestler with big power. He fits the mold of this field.
KF: This fight promises violence. Lampros has a lot of finishing instinct to pull off the upset.
GROUP H Andre Harrison vs. Hunter Azure
Tyler Diamond vs. James Gallagher
JK: Then finally we get to see the Bull return. Former world champion Andre Harrison in action once again.
DH: He does not have an easy out however as Hunter Azure is a talented wrestler with big fight experience.
JM: Andre needs to establish his strength. If he can't out muscle Azure than we could see an upset here.
KF: Then on the other side of the coin we have in my opinion two tournament standouts colliding early as Tyler Diamond takes on James Gallagher.
JT: Man, I honestly see that fight as a semi final or final potential.
HY: Gallagher maybe polarizing but he is a top level submission threat.
TS: Diamond meanwhile is gritty and explosive. He is the perfect foil.
KF: So with these matches announced. Lets go to the screen to see the official cards for GFL 11 and 12.
GFL 11 Mexico City, Mexico
Arena CDMX
Prelims
Mohammad Yahya (12-6) vs. David Mgoyan (8-1)
Jeka Saragih (14-5) vs. Ken Sekeletu (7-1)
Westin Wilson (18-11) vs. Ansar Khamzaev (5-0)
Joshua Culibao (11-4-1) vs. George Mangos (8-1)
Connor Matthews (7-4) vs. Mochamed Machaev (17-2)
Seung Woo Choi (11-8) vs. Ilias Bulaid (8-0)
Solomon Simon (7-1) vs. Hacran Dias (28-13-1)
Joe Soto (18-7) vs. Julio Cesar (36-3)
Luis Palomino (26-17) vs. Gustavo Pintos (10-0)
Sheymon Moraes (17-7) vs. Akbarjon Islomboev (10-2)
Diego Nunes (25-10) vs. Andre Ewell (18-10)
Iuri Alcantara (36-11) vs. Joe Warren (15-8) Main Card
Jason Knight (22-7) vs. Alex Caceres (21-15)
Julio Arce (21-6) vs. Quang Le (9-3)
Hakeem Dawodu (14-4-1) vs. Timur Valiev (19-5)
Ross Pearson (20-17) vs. Nik Bagley (8-1)
Bubba Jenkins (21-9) vs. Dustin Lampros (10-2)
Emmanuel Sanchez (24-11) vs. Kai Kamaka III (17-7-1)
Andre Harrison (22-4-1) vs. Hunter Azure (13-4)
Joe Stevenson (33-16) vs. Frankie Edgar (24-11-1)
GFL 12 Sao Paulo, Brazil
Ginasio Do Ibirapuera
Prelims
Lucas Almeida (15-5) vs. Kazuki Aimoto (9-0)
Herbert Burns (11-6) vs. Shane Collins (6-0)
Gabriel Miranda (17-9) vs. Nurkhan Zhumagazy (10-1)
Lucas Alexander (9-5) vs. Shermurat Kalilov (10-0)
Ricardo Ramos (17-8) vs. Max Holzer (11-0)
Victor Hugo (25-7) vs. Mike Grundy (12-4)
Icaro Brito (8-2) vs. Makwan Amirkhani (20-11)
John Macapa (28-12-2) vs. Radley Da Silva (8-1)
Nazareno Malegarie (33-6-1) vs. Adilet Nurmatov (15-2)
Erick Visconde (16-3) vs. Steven Siler (33-25-1)
Rony Jason (18-12) vs. Iler Bakhtiyar Uulu (11-3)
Marlon Sandro (29-7-2) vs. Levan Makashvili (21-10-1)
Willian Souza (13-2) vs. Brian Kelleher (24-16)
Kron Gracie (5-3) vs. Daniel Weichel (43-15) Main Card
Jordan Vucenic (14-4) vs. Dylan Salvador (6-2)
Tywan Claxton (8-3) vs. Diego Brandao (32-22)
Alexander Loof (8-4) vs. Luan Pedroso (12-4)
Charles Rosa (18-8) vs. Leandro Higo (23-7)
Chris Wade (23-10) vs. Maike Linhares (20-3)
Lance Palmer (23-8) vs. Lucas Martins (22-7)
Tyler Diamond (14-4) vs. James Gallagher (13-3)
Chad Mendes (18-5) vs. Gray Maynard (13-7-1)
Our show opens with aerial shots of Mexico City at Dusk. The Zocalo. As we'd see Aztec imagery blended with a modern skyline. As we came into the arena we'd see fans waving flags while drums build under Latin inspired fight music.
MG: From one of the most passionate fight capitals in the world. We are live from Mexico city as we kick off the Featherweight tournament!
BS: The mexican crowd is different. You feel it already. They don't just come to watch they come to feel it. You put on a show here and they will remember you.
RB: There is history in the air here. Combat sports are woven into the identity of this city. Not too mention the altitude. That changes everything here.
MG: Thirty two fighters enter this tournament and only one will stand at the end. Mexico City are you ready? For myself and my colleagues this is GFL 11 and the prelims start now!
Mohammad Yahya (12-6) vs. David Mgoyan (8-1) UFC veteran Mohammad Yahya would look to get back on the winning track here against American Top Team Standout David Mgoyan. The 21 year old standout would enter a strong showing here as he continually sprawled and defended against the take down attempts of his experienced foe. In turn Yahya was forced to kick box with Mgoyan who picked him apart for two rounds before dropping him in the third with an elbow for a TKO finish. Result: David Mgoyan (9-1) defeated Mohammad Yahya (12-7) by TKO in the 3rd round (1:45)
Jeka Saragih (14-5) vs. Ken Sekeletu (7-1) UFC veteran Jeka Saragih would have a rough night of it as he took on Zambia's Ken Sekeletu. This would be a big show case for the highly dangerous knockout artist Seleketu as he dropped Jeka with the first strike he landed with. From here we'd see Ken continue to punish Jeka before he'd land a brutal knee to the body which folded Saragih for a first round knockout finish. Result: Ken Sekeletu (8-1) defeated Jeka Saragih (14-6) by knockout in the first round (3:01)
Westin Wilson (18-11) vs. Ansar Khamzaev (5-0) UFC veteran Westin Wilson would battle undefeated standout Ansar Khamzaev in the next contest of the night. This bout would be a polar opposite from the fights which preceded it as Ansar Khamzaev took Westin Wilson down at will and controlled him with relentless top pressure. After three rounds of action we would find the judges awarded Ansar a unanimous decision verdict. Result: Ansar Khamzaev (6-0) defeated Westin Wilson (18-12) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Joshua Culibao (11-4-1) vs. George Mangos (8-1) Country men would collide in the next bout of the night as UFC veteran Joshua Culibao would take on rising prospect George Mangos. This would be an atypical striker vs grappler match with Culibao looking to maintain his feet while Mangos sought to bring the fight to the canvas. This would be until Culibao would wade in aggressively only to be tripped by Mangos who secured a quick arm triangle once the fight hit the canvas for a submission. Result: George Mangos (9-1) defeated Joshua Culibao (11-5-1) by submission (arm triangle choke) in the 3rd round (4:46)
Connor Matthews (7-4) vs. Mochamed Machaev (17-2) Oktagon champion Mochamed Machaev would take on UFC veteran Connor Matthews. This fight would be a dominant showing for Machaev who in the build had voiced his displeasure at not being apart of the tournament. Swiftly we would see Machaev drop Connor with a big left hook and follow up with several punches on the ground for a blistering TKO finish. Result: Mochamed Machaev (18-2) defeated Connor Matthews (7-5) by TKO in the 1st round (0:34)
Seung Woo Choi (11-8) vs. Ilias Bulaid (8-0) The next bout of the night would see UFC veteran Seung Woo Choi in action against undefeated Netherlands standout Ilias Bulaid. The brave and UAE veteran Bulaid would enter in a dominant showing here as he rocked Choi early with an overhand right and never let up on him with his offense. With Choi hurt, Bulaid would finish him off late in the first with a left cross and right straight combination. Result: Ilias Bulaid (9-0) defeated Seung Woo Choi (11-9) by knockout in the 1st round (4:46)
Solomon Simon (7-1) vs. Hacran Dias (28-13-1) Former Cage Warriors champion Solomon Simon would face the toughest opponent of his career to date as he took on UFC veteran Hacran Dias. Unfortunately for the fans in attendance this would be a very dull fight as Dias had little interest in standing and exchanging with his heavy hitting opponent. Dias instead would elect to use his grappling to control Simon for all three rounds on his way to a unanimous decision. Result: Hacran Dias (29-13-1) defeated Solomon Simon (7-2) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Joe Soto (18-7) vs. Julio Cesar (36-3) UFC and Bellator veteran Joe Soto would take on a fellow Bellator veteran Julio Cesar in the next bout of the night. While some may have expected a back and forth contest or a fairly even bout in this one. We would instead see a dominant showing in this bout as Joe Soto would out land Julio Cesar on the feet while also managing to control him on the ground for a shut out decision victory Result: Joe Soto (19-7) defeated Julio Cesar (36-4) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Luis Palomino (26-17) vs. Gustavo Pintos (10-0) Undefeated Uruguayan prospect Gustavo Pintos would have the biggest fight of his career in the next fight of the night as he took on WSOF veteran Luis Palomino. While some may have expected this to be a brutal war of attrition, instead we'd see Pintos rock Palomino with a flying knee strike. This would put Palomino down on the mat and we'd see Pintos follow up with punches and elbows for a TKO finish. Result: Gustavo Pintos (11-0) defeated Luis Palomino (26-18) by TKO in the 1st round (1:42)
Sheymon Moraes (17-7) vs. Akbarjon Islomboev (10-2) LFA and UAE veteran Akbarjon Islomboev would take on UFC veteran Sheymon Moraes in the next fight of the evening. Moraes would look to use his grappling in the early going of this fight this would prove effective with Islomboev managing to hold Moraes down. Yet as the fight waged on we would see Moraes manage to get to his feet and he'd damage and hurt Islomboev with some sharp elbow strikes. This damage would sway the judges who awarded Moraes a split decision. Result: Sheymon Moraes (18-7) defeated Akbarjon Islomboev (10-3) by split decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)
Diego Nunes (25-10) vs. Andre Ewell (18-10) Two veterans would do battle in the next bout of the night as Diego Nunes and Andre Ewell both looked to turn their fortunes around. Despite both men looking to turn their fortunes around, we would see this fight would be a dominant showcase for Nunes. Because with this fight being contested on the feet, it was Nunes' power which was the difference maker as he'd rock Ewell on several occasions on his way to a decision. Result: Diego Nunes (26-10) defeated Andre Ewell (18-11) by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Iuri Alcantara (36-11) vs. Joe Warren (15-8) The final fight on the prelims would see UFC veteran Iuri Alcantara take on former Bellator World Champion Joe Warren. This bout would see Joe Warren turn the clock back in his career once more as he utilized his wrestling background to smother and control Iuri Alcantara for three rounds on his way to a unanimous decision verdict. Result: Joe Warren (16-9) defeated Iuri Alcantara (36-12) by unanimous decision.
The Camera then pans across a packed arena as Mexican Flags are waved throughout the crowd while dramatic music plays. The lighting rig then sweeps across the arena while the GFL logo flashes on the screen. Standing in the center of the cage is Dasha Gonzalez as she welcomes us to the main card.
DG: Welcome to Mexico City! Tonight the GFL brings the featherweight tournament to one of the most electric fight cities in the world. Tonight we have thousand of fans in attendance and millions watching from home as we see eight massive tournament fights a part of our main card. By the end of tonight eight fighters will have stamped their ticket to the next round and be one step closer to tournament supremacy. So Mexico City, brace yourself and be ready as the main card starts now!
There is a huge roar from the crowd as we head to our commentary booth.
MG: Thank you Dasha. What an atmosphere we have tonight in Mexico City. We are now at the main card portion of this event and the stakes could not be higher.
BS: The energy here tonight is insane. Mexico loves fighters who come forward and throw down. Man tonight we have a bunch of them capable of ending fights in an instant.
RB: This is the nature of tournaments. There is no tomorrow or second chances. Tonight is all about opportunity and pressure.
MG: For Brendan Schaub and Robin Black.. I'm Mike Goldberg. The GFL Main card starts now!
Jason Knight (22-7) vs. Alex Caceres (21-15) Opening the main card portion of the show would be a much anticipated clash between unorthodox UFC veterans when Jason Knight took on Alex Caceres. This would be a rematch from 9 years ago which was then won by Jason Knight. This bout would be a wild, back and forth affair with Knight throwing heavy punches and Alex landing wild kicks and spinning attacks. During the second round of action we'd see Caceres drop Knight with a front kick to the jaw and waste little time following Knight to the floor where he locked in a mounted triangle for the submission. Result: Alex Caceres (22-15) defeated Jason Knight (22-8) by submission (Triangle Choke) in the second Round (4:49)
Julio Arce (21-6) vs. Quang Le (9-3) The second tournament match of the night would be a polar opposite of our wild opening bout. As Julio Arce and Quang Le instead engaged in a highly technical if not slightly tepid kickboxing match. While both men had their moments in the early rounds, round three would see Arce really begin to open up and begin to land some combinations on his foe which may have been the deciding factor for the judges Result: Julio Arce (22-6) defeated Quang Le (9-4) by split decision (29-28, 28-29 and 29-28)
Hakeem Dawodu (14-4-1) vs. Timur Valiev (19-5) Match three of the Featherweight tournament would be our standard striker vs grappler bout as UFC veterans Hakeem Dawodu battled Timur Valiev. While Dawodu may have looked to establish range and distance with his timing and footwork, we'd see Timur Valiev wade forward with pressure looking to press Dawodu against the cage and get the bout to the ground. Once he was successful in doing so, Valiev would control Dawodu in an effort to ride out the decision. Result: Timur Valiev (20-5) defeated Hakeem Dawodu (14-5-1) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Ross Pearson (20-17) vs. Nik Bagley (8-1) Match four would see a clash between countrymen as UFC veteran and Ultimate Fighter winner Ross Pearson would take on Cage Warriors champion Nik Bagley. Pearson would look to establish his boxing range early against his opponent but we'd see the aggressive Bagley waste little time in taking the fight to the canvas. Once on the ground Bagley would secure the mount and clobber Pearson with punches until the official called off the fight. Result: Nik Bagley (9-1) defeated Ross Pearson (20-18) by TKO in Round 1 (2:15)
Bubba Jenkins (21-9) vs. Dustin Lampros (10-2) As we came into the second half of the main card, PFL veteran Bubba Jenkins would take on prospect Dustin Lampros. This fight would be a dominant showing by Bubba Jenkins who wasted little time in taking Lampros down. Despite Lampros battling his way to his feet, he would be slammed down to the canvas by Jenkins. Hurt by the slam, we'd see Lampros defenseless as Jenkins landed some big elbows to force a stoppage. Result: Bubba Jenkins (22-9) defeated Dustin Lampros (10-3) by TKO in the 1st round (1:56)
Emmanuel Sanchez (24-11) vs. Kai Kamaka III (17-7-1) Two veterans would do battle in the next bout of the night as Bellator veteran Emmanuel Sanchez took on UFC veteran Kai Kamaka III. Unfortunately for the fans in attendance this would be a rather tepid fight filled with inaction as Emmanuel Sanchez would manage to pin Kai against the fence for the majority of the fight. The audience in attendance would voice their displeasure as after three rounds Sanchez was given the verdict. Result: Emmanuel Sanchez (25-11) defeated Kai Kamaka III (17-8-1) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Andre Harrison (22-4-1) vs. Hunter Azure (13-4) The co-main event of the evening would see former PFL Champion Andre Harrison take on UFC veteran Hunter Azure. This bout would be a dominant showing for Andre Harrison as he managed to sprawl and defend numerous takedowns from Azure. This would force Azure into a striking battle with the heavy handed Harrison who managed to drop Azure on several occasions on his way to a unanimous decision verdict. Result: Andre Harrison (23-4-1) defeated Hunter Azure (13-5) by Unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Joe Stevenson (33-16) vs. Frankie Edgar (24-11-1) Finally it was time for the main event of the evening as UFC veteran and Ultimate fighter winner Joe Stevenson battled former UFC Champion Frankie Edgar. This would be a dominant showing for Frankie Edgar who turned the clock back in this bout as he outstruck and out wrestled Stevenson for the majority of the fight. This would be until Edgar dropped Stevenson late in the third and followed with several punches for a TKO finish. Result: Frankie Edgar (25-11-1) defeated Joe Stevenson (33-17) by TKO
MG: What a night and what a tournament we have seen so far in Mexico!
BS: We've seen veterans earn one more shot and legends turn back the clock. I cannot wait to see the remainder.
RB: I can say as good as tonight is, GFL 12 in Brazil is can't miss.
MG: We will see you all next time in Brazil as the GFL Featherweight tournament continues!
