GLOBAL FIGHT LEAGUE

[Shade]

GFL 12
Sao Paulo, Brazil
Ginasio Do Ibirapuera​

We open with a shot of the Sao Paolo skyline at sunrise before we transition into the Night Lights. After quick cuts are shown of the Favelas and gyms throughout Brazil and a voice over details a history of combat in Brazil. Cinematic music would play to open this newest GFL event.

MG: From the fighting heart of Brazil we are live from Sao Paulo. Tonight the GFL arrives at the historic Ginasio Do Ibirapuera. This venue has hosted some of the greatest combat moments in history and now will play host to the next chapter of the GFL Featherweight tournament.

BS: Goldie this is a dangerous place to fight if you are not ready. Local fighters grow up in this environment. The pressure and crowd.. It's second nature to them. These early prelims are stacked with a ton of local talent looking to show out.

RB: Brazil is the cradle of combat innovation. From the days of Vale Tudo to modern mixed martial artis. This country has shaped how the sport is fought and tonight we see the next evolution.

MG: We began this tournament in Mexico and now the opening round continues here in Brazil. For fighters tonight it is both a chance to represent their country but also for a chance to advance in the most competitive tournament in sport.

BS: And you know the crowd is going to be firmly behind these Brazilian fighters early. If you are a visiting fighter you best silence them quick or it is going to be a long night.

RB: These prelims are more than just a fight on the undercard. It's an opportunity in a proving ground. Show the world why a mistake was made not putting you in this tournament. Careers could be made in an instant here.

MG: For Brendan Schaub and Robin Black.. I'm Mike Goldberg and this is GFL 12.. The early prelims begin now!

Lucas Almeida (15-5) vs. Kazuki Aimoto (9-0)
UFC veteran Lucas Almeida would be the first national fighter to step into the cage before his home crowd. His opponent would be undefeated Deep veteran Kazuki Aimoto. Facing his stiffest competition to date, Kazuki Aimoto managed to overcome the steepest challenge in his career in quick fashion as he dropped a charging Almeida with a jab and followed up with several shots on the ground for a swift TKO finish.
Result: Kazuki Aimoto (10-0) defeated Lucas Almeida (15-6) by TKO in the first round (0:58)

Herbert Burns (11-6) vs. Shane Collins (6-0)
Grappling ace and UFC veteran Herbert Burns would look to turn things around for Brazilian fighters against undefeated grappler Shane Collins. Despite both men being noted for their grappling abilities this fight would be contested on the feet in what was a sloppy kickboxing match. Filled with unrefined striking ability we'd see Collins drop Burns in the third with a kick to the body for a late TKO finish.
Result: Shane Collins (7-0) defeated Herbert Burns (11-7) by TKO in the third round (3:46)

Gabriel Miranda (17-9) vs. Nurkhan Zhumagazy (10-1)
Another UFC veteran would be in action in the next bout of the night as Gabriel Miranda took on Rizin veteran Nurkhan Zhumagazy. This would be a dominant showcase for Nurkhan who wasted little time in taking Gabriel Miranda down to the canvas. Once on the ground Nurkhan would punish Miranda with short punches and elbows before finally one big strike would knockout Miranda at the end of the round.
Result: Nurkhan Zhumagazy (11-1) defeated Gabriel Miranda (17-10) by knockout in the 1st round (5:00)

Lucas Alexander (9-5) vs. Shermurat Kalilov (10-0)
Seeking to turn fortunes around for his country. Lucas Alexander would take on undefeated standout Shermurat Kalilov. Unfortunately for Alexander he would be quickly dropped with a big overhand by Kalilov which dropped Alexander to the canvas. From here Kalilov followed up with several punches on the ground until the official called a stop to the contest.
Result: Shermurat Kalilov (11-0) defeated Lucas Alexander (9-6) by TKO in the 1st round (1:23)

Ricardo Ramos (17-8) vs. Max Holzer (11-0)
UFC veteran Ricardo Ramos would take on undefeated submission artist Max Holzer in the next bout of the night. Ramos in the early going of this bout looked like he would turn the page for Brazilian fighters this evening as he clipped Holzer with a spinning back fist and pieced him up on the feet for the first round. During the second however Holzer would secure a takedown and quickly clamp on an arm triangle for the submission.
Result: Max Holzer (12-0) defeated Ricardo Ramos (17-9) by submission (arm triangle choke) in the 2nd round (3:01)

Victor Hugo (25-7) vs. Mike Grundy (12-4)
Two UFC veterans would collide in the next bout of the night as Victor Hugo took on Mike Grundy. While England's Grundy looked to immediately initiate the grappling. We'd see Hugo manage to sprawl and defend forcing the fight to remain on the feet. Keeping up his attack Hugo stunned Grundy with a knee from the clinch and a big straight left followed down the pike which dropped Grundy for a TKO finish.
Result: Victor Hugo (26-7) defeated Mike Grundy (12-5) by TKO in the 1st round (4:25)

Icaro Brito (8-2) vs. Makwan Amirkhani (20-11)
Off the back of one of his countryman picking up a victory. Fighting Nerds prospect Icaro Brito would take on UFC Grappling artist Makwan Amirkhani. Despite Brito having a big striking edge, it was Amirkhani and his grappling which proved the difference maker in this bout as he took Brito down and controlled him for the first round of this bout before in the second securing a rear naked choke for the submission.
Result: Makwan Amirkhani (21-11) defeated Icaro Brito (8-3) by submission (rear naked choke) in round two (2:45)

John Macapa (28-12-2) vs. Radley Da Silva (8-1)
Bellator and UFC veteran John Macapa would take on prospect Radley Da Silva. While Macapa looked to bring this fight to the ground, Radley would be able to defend any and all takedown or trip attempts. This meant that Macapa would be forced to stand with Da Silva who had a big edge in the striking department. After three rounds of action Da Silva would be awarded a decision victory.
Result: Radley Da Silva (9-1) defeated John Macapa (28-13-2) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Nazareno Malegarie (33-6-1) vs. Adilet Nurmatov (15-2)
Another Bellator and UFC veteran Nazareno Malegarie would be in action in the next bout of the night against ONE FC veteran Adilet Nurmatov. Against his much more experienced foe we'd see Adilet Nurmatov rise to the occasion as he managed to drop Nazareno on several occasions throughout this fight on his way to a unanimous decision verdict.
Result: Adilet Nurmatov (16-2) defeated Nazareno Malegarie (33-7-1) by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-26 x2)

Erick Visconde (16-3) vs. Steven Siler (33-25-1)
UFC and WSOF veteran Steven Siler would fight LFA standout Erick Visconde in the next bout. While facing off with his most skilled and talented opponent yet, Visconde would waste little time in bringing this fight with Siler down to the canvas. From here Visconde was all over Siler and secured a kimura for a submission late in the first round.
Result: Erick Visconde (17-3) defeated Steven Siler (33-26-1) by submission (kimura) in the 1st round (4:56)

Rony Jason (18-12) vs. Iler Bakhtiyar Uulu (11-3)
Ultimate fighter winner and UFC veteran Rony Jason would look to be the next local talent to secure a win. Unfortunately for him while he did have some success in the early going of the round against LFA standout Ilir Uulu. While Jason would land some heavy shots he would be dropped midway through the first with an overhand left. From here Uulu followed up with several punches for a knockout finish.
Result: Iler Bakhtiyar Uulu (12-3) defeated Rony Jason (18-13) by knockout in the 1st round (2:38)

Marlon Sandro (29-7-2) vs. Levan Makashvili (21-10-1)
Off the back of several quick finishes. The next bout of the night would be a strict grappling match as UFC veteran Levan Makashvili battled former Bellator champion Marlon Sandro. In a fight which spent the majority of the fifteen minutes on the ground Levan would maintain top position while Sandro constantly attempted submissions. After three rounds Sandro would be awarded a split decision.
Result: Marlon Sandro (30-7-2) defeated Levan Makashvili (21-11-1) by split decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)

Willian Souza (13-2) vs. Brian Kelleher (24-16)
Former UFC fighter Brian Kelleher would look to get back on the winning track in the next bout of the night. Unfortunately for him he would face off with heavy handed striker Willian Souza. This bout would be a violent showcase for the Brazilian who not only punished Kelleher with punches but also some vicious leg kicks. This would be until Souza capped things off with a head kick for a brutal knockout.
Result: William Souza (14-2) defeated Brian Kelleher (24-17) by knockout in the 1st round (1:23)

Kron Gracie (5-3) vs. Daniel Weichel (43-15)
The final bout on the prelims would see one of the legendary Gracie family in action as Kron Gracie took on Bellator veteran Daniel Weichel. Unfortunately for fans in attendance this was a relatively dull affair with Kron Gracie constantly looking to pull guard while Daniel Weichel was content to stay behind his jab and take little risk. After three rounds of little action we would see Weichel awarded a decision.
Result: Daniel Weichel (44-15) defeated Kron Gracie (5-4) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

From here we see the main card opening. Focusing on the Sao Paulo skyline at night before we cut to inside a packed arena. Here numerous passionate fans are waving flags and making various chants. We'd also hear drums and samba music which slowly blend into heavy metal music and the GFL opening song. After a few minutes Dasha steps forward in the center of the cage.

DK: Good evening and welcome to the 12th event in GFL history live from the historic Ginasio Do Ibirapuera as tonight the featherweight title tournament coninues in one of the most passionate fight capitals in the world! So whether you are here in Sao Paulo or watching around the world.. Get ready because the GFL main card starts right now!

MG: Thank you Dasha and welcome everyone to Sao Paulo Brazil! The energy in this arena is electric and for good reason. As tonight the Featherweight tournament continues in a city that helped define MMA as we know it!

BS: Goldie, this crowd is different. They understand everything going on. Every position and transition. Plus there are a lot of hometown fighters on this show looking not just to win but make their country proud.

RB: This is a place where technique is revered. Where Jiu Jitsu is not just a skill but a language. Tonight we will see that language spoken at the highest level.

MG: Sixteen fighters enter the main card tonight but only eight will advance. The stakes are simple. Win and you advance but lose and the tournament ends here.

BS: There are no easy fights here either. Every match here is tough to predict. We have wrestlers, strikers and submission guys all mixed together.

RB: In tournaments styles don't just clash they evolve. Because in survival situations evolution is needed.

MG: This includes our main event tonight as veterans and former title contenders collide when Chad Mendes takes on Gray Maynard.

BS: That is a tough, gritty fight for sure.

RB: A battle of will as well as skill.

MG: But before we get there we have seven other tournament fights including our opener as France and England collide when Jordan Vucenic takes on Dylan Salvador.

BS: This is a great opener. You have the submissions of Vucenic against the elite striking of Salvador.

RB: A perfect fight for this crowd tonight.

MG: For Brendan Schaub and Robin Black, I'm Mike Goldberg. This is the GFL 12 and we are live from Sao Paulo. Let's get to the fights!

Jordan Vucenic (14-4) vs. Dylan Salvador (6-2)
Opening the show we'd see former Cage Warriors champion Jordan Vucenic take on Kickboxer Dylan Salvador. While this fight was advertised as striker vs. grappler we'd see Vucenic surprisingly willing to strike with Salvador. While Salvador on the feet would be able to out strike and at points out land Vucenic. We would see Jordan at times land the much heavier strikes and even open a cut on Salvador. During the third round Vucenic would finally bring Dylan to the ground and he'd ride out the round for a split decision victory.
Result: Jordan Vucenic (15-4) defeated Dylan Salvador (6-3) by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 30-27)

Tywan Claxton (8-3) vs. Diego Brandao (32-22)
Two highly explosive and volatile fighters would step into the cage for the next battle of the evening as Bellator veteran Tywan Claxton took on Ultimate Fighter champion Diego Brandao. With both men well known for their aggressive starts it would be no surprise this got off to a fast start with Brandao chasing forwards and rocking Claxton early. With Claxton hurt and backed against the cage Brandao would begin teeing off when a short right by Claxton dropped him. Several hammerfists followed for a flash KO finish.
Result: Tywan Claxton (9-3) defeated Diego Brandao (32-23) by knockout in the 1st round (0:41)

Alexander Loof (8-4) vs. Luan Pedroso (12-4)
Cage Warriors standout Alexander Loof would take on LFA veteran Luan Pedroso in the next bout. While some may have predicted a back and forth striking battle. This instead would be a dominant performance by Pedroso who managed to beat Loof to the punch at every single turn. Following three rounds of dominant action, we would see Luan Pedroso awarded a unanimous decision verdict.
Result: Luan Pedroso (13-4) defeated Alexander Loof (8-5) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Charles Rosa (18-8) vs. Leandro Higo (23-7)
Off the back of his countryman picking up a hometown victory former bellator standout Leandro Higo would look to continue the run of form against UFC veteran Charles Rosa. Off the back of several fights contested on the feet, this fight instead would be a dominant grappling showcase as Higo managed to take down and control Rosa for all three rounds on his way to a unanimous decision.
Result: Leandro Higo (24-7) defeated Charles Rosa (18-9) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Chris Wade (23-10) vs. Maike Linhares (20-3)
PFL and UFC veteran Chris Wade would look to play the spoiler in the next bout against one of the tournament favorites Maike Linhares. Wade's early takedown attempt however was quickly sprawled by Maike who then dropped Wade with a short elbow as he came up. Wade never recovered from this shot and it didn't take long after for Linhares to put him away with a big uppercut for a vicious knockout.
Result: Maike Linhares (21-3) defeated Chris Wade (23-11) by 1st round knockout (2:04)

Lance Palmer (23-8) vs. Lucas Martins (22-7)
Looking to continue the success of his countrymen UFC veteran Lucas Martins would take on PFL Champion and tournament winner Lance Palmer. While Lucas came out aggressive in the opening stanza throwing heavy strikes and knees. We'd see Lance Palmer quickly manage to get this fight to the canvas. From here Lance would manage to control Lucas Martins for the remainder of the fight on his way to a unanimous decision.
Result: Lance Palmer (24-8) defeated Lucas Martins (22-8) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Tyler Diamond (14-4) vs. James Gallagher (13-3)
The co-main event of the evening would see highly rated wrestler Tyler Diamond take on Bellator veteran James Gallagher. To everyone's surprise this fight would not be a back and forth battle but would instead be a dominant showing for Gallagher who managed to not only out strike Diamond but actually secure a takedown on Tyler and nearly secure a submission in the third for a unanimous decision
Result: James Gallagher (14-3) defeated Tyler Diamond (14-5) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Chad Mendes (18-5) vs. Gray Maynard (13-7-1)
Finally in the main event of the evening two former UFC title contenders would collide in a first time match up as Chad Mendes took on Gray Maynard. With both men known for their strength, wrestling and heavy hands it was no surprise this fight got off to a tentative start when all of a sudden Chad charged in with a short right cross. This would drop Maynard and several follow up punches followed for a knockout.
Result: Chad Mendes (19-5) defeated Gray Maynard (13-8-1) by knockout (1:07)

MG: Ladies and Gentleman, thank you for joining us for the featherweight tournament. The next time you will see us will be for the GFL Bantamweight bracketology event!

 

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GFL Bantamweight Bracketology​

MG: Ladies and Gentleman, off the back of an electric start to our GFL Featherweight title tournament. We now turn our attention to one of the fastest, most dynamic divisions in all of Mixed Martial Arts.. The GFL Bantamweight division.

BS: This division is nuts. Speed, cardio and scrambles. These guys don't slow down!

RB: Bantamweight is all about acceleration. It is constant motion. It is chaos refined into precision.

MG: So lets head to Alex as we begin the unveiling of the GFL Bantamweight tournament.

------------------------------------------------ Entrant #1 ------------------------------------------------

AW: Thank you Mike. Our first entrant into the GFL Bantamweight title tournament is a rarity in this sport having been the only man to have competed and won the Ultimate Fighter on two separate occasions.. Brad Katona!

MG: What a way to start our announcements. Katona is as well rounded a fighter as you will see. This is a man who stays calm under pressure and thanks to his training with John Kavanagh he is very disciplined.

RB: Katona is solid everywhere. He may not particularly stand out in any area but he can overcome any challenge.

BS: He is composure. In a division full of chaos. His calm and composure is a weapon.

------------------------------------------------ Entrant #2 ------------------------------------------------

AW: Our second entrant continues the high level amateur wrestling standouts who have success in MMA. With wins over former champions Joe Warren and Eduardo Dantas. This man is a former Bellator Bantamweight champion.. Darrion Caldwell.

MG: As dominant a wrestler as the Bantamweight division has seen. When Caldwell imposes his wrestling, he is very hard to stop.

RB: A super athletic fighter. If Caldwell gets going he is capable of running through his opponents.

BS: He bends fights to his will. The question is can he maintain control against the chaos?

------------------------------------------------ Entrant #3 ------------------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant represents Afghanistan. A former UFC veteran who boasts a 15-2 record with 11 wins by either knockout or submission under his belt.. Javid Basharat.

MG: This guy truly represents the future of Bantamweight. A true next generation fighter who is very much a contender in this field.

BS: Javid is as clean a fighter as they come. He doesn't make any mistakes.

RB: Javid Basharat is all about efficiency. Minimal wasted motion. Maximum effect.

------------------------------------------------ Entrant #4 ------------------------------------------------

AW: For our fourth Entrant into the GFL Bantamweight title tournament. We have a special guest to handle this introduction. Please welcome a true pioneer in the Kickboxing world and one of the founders of the PFL.. Ray Sefo!

(A smiling Ray Sefo appears on the screen to applause from our table.)

RS: It is my pleasure to be here. I have always felt from my own days in competition that tournaments are the purest form of combat. The cream truly rises to the top and this man is very much proof of that. A former World Series of Fighting Champion who has bested the likes of Aljamain Sterling, Miguel Torres, Jose Aldo and Raphael Assuncao.. Marlon Moraes!

MG: As far as strikers go. There are few as dangerous as Marolon Moraes on the feet.

RB: Leg kicks, knees, punches and elbows. Moraes is capable of ending a fight in seconds.

BS: He is volatility. Moraes can end a fight in a matter of seconds.

------------------------------------------------ Entrant #5 ------------------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant is a veteran of Bellator and World Series of fighting. Representing Canada, he is Josh Hill!

MG: Now this is an interesting addition to the tournament. An experienced veteran who has history with Marlon Moraes.

BS: Hill is under appreciated. A tricky fighter who is consistent and highly experienced.

RB: He operates in the margins. Builds up subtle advantages which then accumulate on the score cards.

------------------------------------------------ Entrant #6 ------------------------------------------------

AW: For our sixth entrant we have our second Ultimate Fighter winner. A high level grappler who has defeated the likes of Michael Johnson in the past.. Jonathan Brookins!

MG: I really like this pick and I've always admired Jonathan Brookins. This is a grinder through and through who has been in tough fights through his career.

BS: He is far from flashy but Brookins is tough and effective.

RB: This fighter is all about persistence. He is capable of wearing on his opponents.

------------------------------------------------ Entrant #7 ------------------------------------------------

AW: Our seventh entrant is a former UFC Bantamweight Champion who is on the short list as one of the greatest and most dominant bantamweight fighters of all time. With wins over the likes of Urijah Faber, Eddie Wineland, Brad Pickett and Scott Jorgensen.. Renan Barao!

MG: Now this is a big addition. At his peak Barao was unstoppable.

BS: People forget how good he was. Barao was a killer in his prime!

RB: He represents a dynasty. A moment in time where dominance felt inevitable. Now Barao has a chance to gain that once more.

------------------------------------------------ Entrant #8 ------------------------------------------------

AW: Our 8th entrant into the tournament is a true veteran of the game who has fought in Pancrase, King of the Cage, UFC and Bellator. He is Rob Emerson!

MG: A dangerous entry to the tournament. Emerson always comes to fight and is always dangerous.

BS: Emerson will come to throw down. Every fight he is in is a dog fight.

RB: Emerson thrives in the pocket. His whole game is risk and reward.

MG: We are now a quarter in the field and will be back soon for the next batch of entrants.

GFL BANTAMWEIGHT TOURNAMENT LIST
1. Brad "Superman" Katona (14-5)
2. Darrion "The Wolf" Caldwell (14-7)
3. Javid "The Snow Leopard" Basharat (15-2)
4. "Magic" Marlon Moraes (23-13-1)
5. "Gentleman" Josh Hill (23-8)
6. Jonathan Brookins (16-11)
7. Renan "The Baron" Barao (34-10)
8. Rob "The Saint" Emerson (20-15)

 

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GLOBAL FIGHT LEAGUE BANTAMWEIGHT BRACKETOLOGY​

MG: Good evening ladies and gentleman. We are now back for the next part of the GFL Bantamweight title tournament bracketology event. With 8 names announced, we will now get to our next wave of announcements which will put us at our halfway point in the bracket.

---------------------------------------- ENTRANT 9 ----------------------------------------

AW: For our ninth entrant into the GFL Bantamweight title tournament we head to Brazil. Our 9th entrant is a UFC veteran and former RFA Bantamweight Champion. A dangerous finisher with 9 submission wins and 4 knockout wins to his credit. With noted wins over Jimmie Rivera, Cody Garbrandt and Rob Font.. Pedro Munhoz!

MG: What a way to start this wave of introductions. Munhoz is a dangerous finisher!

BS: Munhoz is an action fighter. Notorious for his heavy hands and vice grip.

RB: Munhoz is tough as nails. You will not have an easy night with this man in your bracket.

---------------------------------------- ENTRANT 10 ----------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant will also be from Brazil. He is a standout from Nova Uniao and a former Bellator Bantamweight Champion... Eduardo Dantas!

MG: Now this is a tournament favorite. Dantas has truly competed at some of the highest levels of MMA.

RB: He truly has big fight experience. This matters in a setting like this.

BS: He understands how to pace himself better than anyone. That's a true veterans weapon.

---------------------------------------- ENTRANT 11 ----------------------------------------

AW: For entrant eleven we continue with the GFL's global expansion as this time we head to Japan. The eleventh entrant is a veteran with over a decade of experience in the UFC and Pancrase.. Michinori Tanaka!

MG: What an addition to this tournament. Tanaka brings an incredible career spanning several eras.

RB: This is a true throwback. Tanaka is a specialist when it comes to the grappling game.

BS: Tanaka is the ultimate spoiler. He can hold you down and steal rounds like no other.

---------------------------------------- ENTRANT 12 ----------------------------------------

AW: With former champions from the PFL, Bellator, WSOF, RFA and other organizations. Our next competitor is another former Bellator Bantamweight champion and UFC veteran.. Patchy Mix!

MG: We've already seen some dominant grapplers introduced tonight but Mix maybe the most dominant and dangerous yet.

RB: If the fight hits the canvas with this man he is a big problem for anyone!

BS: Mix hunts for the neck and once he finds it.. the fight changes instantly!

---------------------------------------- ENTRANT 13 ----------------------------------------

AW: Entrant thirteen is a representative from Azerbaijan. He is the current reigning UAE Bantamweight champion and has finished 9 of his 10 professional opponents... Asaf Chopurov!

MG: Now this an interesting pick up. He may not be the biggest name in the field but he is one of the most dangerous.

RB: Chopurov is a risk taker. He is the definition of a kill or be killed fighter and it works for him.

BS: He represents chaos. As far as entries go he brings a real unpredictability.

---------------------------------------- ENTRANT 14 ----------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant is a Kill Cliff MMA standout and LFA veteran. A high level wrestling standout from the university of Minnesota... Mitchell McKee.

MG: We've seen it a multitude of times with these high level wrestlers crossing over to MMA. McKee looks like the next.

RB: This man blends his wrestling perfectly. He compresses speed and limits options.

BS: Based on his high level wrestling alone. This is a real dark horse!

---------------------------------------- ENTRANT 15 ----------------------------------------

AW: We return to Brazil for our next entrant into the tournament. This man is an LFA and Shooto veteran who holds 8 knockout wins to his record... Mateus Soares.

MG: The field just got a lot more dangerous with this selection. Soares is all aggression!

RB: He's highly skilled on top of that aggression. We've seen some really nice technique to his strikes as well as the power.

BS: This to me is a sleeper in the tournament. He could go the whole way!

---------------------------------------- ENTRANT 16 ----------------------------------------

AW: As we reach the halfway point in the field. Our next competitor also comes from Brazil and is a former UFC veteran. A man who holds wins over multiple former champions including Aljamain Sterling, Marlon Moraes and TJ Dillashaw.. Raphael Assuncao!

MG: What a way to wrap up the halfway point. Assuncao is one of the most consistent fighters the Bantamweight division saw for years!

RB: This guy fought everyone. He may not be the most exciting fighter but he has spoiled many fighters nights.

BS: He is refinement. Years of evolution distilled into efficiency.

MG: As we are now at our halfway point. We will be back soon for the next back of entrants.

GFL BANTAMWEIGHT TOURNAMENT LIST
1. Brad "Superman" Katona (14-5)
2. Darrion "The Wolf" Caldwell (14-7)
3. Javid "The Snow Leopard" Basharat (15-2)
4. "Magic" Marlon Moraes (23-13-1)
5. "Gentleman" Josh Hill (23-8)
6. Jonathan Brookins (16-11)
7. Renan "The Baron" Barao (34-10)
8. Rob "The Saint" Emerson (20-15)
9. "The Young Punisher" Pedro Munhoz (20-10)
10. Eduardo "Dudu" Dantas (23-8)
11. Michinori Tanaka (16-4)
12. Patchy "No Love" Mix (20-4)
13. Asaf "Honey Badger" Chopurov (10-0)
14. "Merciless" Mitchell McKee (10-0)
15. Mateus "I'm Ready" Soares (10-2)
16. Raphael Assuncao (27-10)

 

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GLOBAL FIGHT LEAGUE BANTAMWEIGHT BRACKETOLOGY​

MG: Welcome back ladies and gentleman, we are now at the halfway point of the GFL Bantamweight tournament fighter reveal. So lets return to Alex for our next group of eight competitors to compete in the Bantamweight tournament.

---------------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 17 ----------------------------------------------------

AW: Thank you Mike! For our next entrant of the tournament, we return to Brazil once more. This time for an elite level boxer turned MMA fighter who has competed in the LFA.. Daniel Araujo!

MG: Now this is a big entrant to the fold. Araujo brings fight ending power to the division.

RB: This man brings one punch power like few others. He can change a fight instantly.

BS: Every exchange matters when this man is involved. Araujo can end a fight in a second.

---------------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 18 ----------------------------------------------------

AW: For our next entrant we head to South Korea. As our 18th entrant is a UFC, ROAD and Sengoku veteran.. Kyung Ho Kang!

MG: Kang has quietly built up an impressive career. He has fought everywhere.

RB: He's a tricky man. Well rounded. A slick grappler with ever improving striking.

BS: He adapts and that adaptability is essential in a setting like this.

---------------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 19 ----------------------------------------------------

AW: Our 19th entrant into the cage is a 20 plus fight veteran who has competed in the WSOF, M1 and King of the Cage promotions... Josh Rettinghouse!

MG: Rettinghouse has faced tough competition throughout his career. He is someone truly deserving of an entry in this tournament.

BS: He is tough and very scrappy. You will not have an easy night with this man.

RB: He thrives in close, competitive fights like few others do.

---------------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 20 ----------------------------------------------------

AW: Our twentieth entrant into the field will be a former ONE FC Champion with notable wins of the likes of Demetrious Johnson.. Adriano Moraes!

MG: Now this is an exciting addition. Moraes brings a real championship pedigree into this bracket.

BS: Super dangerous on the ground. This is an elite grappler.

RB: He understands control and how to convert into victory.

---------------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 21 ----------------------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant is a true pioneer of the lighter weight divisions who is a UFC and WEC veteran. He holds wins over Dominick Cruz, Jens Pulver, Raphael Assuncao and Eddie Wineland. He is the founder of Team Alpha Male... Urijah Faber!

MG: Now this is huge. A legend has entered the field.

BS: This guy truly helped build the division. He is an icon for these lighter weight classes.

RB: Faber represents legacy and legacy carries weight in moments like these!

---------------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 22 ----------------------------------------------------

AW: For the first time since the GFL's dawn we head to Peru for entrant 22. This competitor is a sharp striker who has previosly competed in the LFA.. Rodrigo Vera!

MG: Now this is an excellent addition to the tournament. Vera is an exciting fighter to watch.

BS: Vera has a lot of skills. He is super dangerous for anyone!

RB: He brings forward pressure and forces reactions.

---------------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 23 ----------------------------------------------------

AW: Our 23rd entrant in the tournament fights out of Denmark. He is a Oktagon and ACB veteran.. Jonas Magard!

MG: This is a dangerous entrant for everyone. Magard is as high paced a grappler as you will see.

BS: He will make you work the whole time. This man truly is a shark as his nickname says.

RB: He weaponizes pace, pressure and fatigue like no one else.

---------------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 24 ----------------------------------------------------

AW: rounding out this group and the third quarter of entrants is a Brazilian fighter who is the current Cage Warriors Bantamweight Champion.. Weslley Maia!

MG: This is a young, talented prospect who is entering this bracket. Maia is perfect for this setting.

BS: He is fast and aggressive. Do not blink when this kid fights.

RB: Maia is a finisher. He has put away nine opponents either by submission or strikes. He is someone who is dangerous anywhere the fight goes.

MG: We are now twenty four fighters deep into this field and the competition is only getting tighter. We will be back soon for the final eight introductions.

GFL BANTAMWEIGHT TOURNAMENT LIST
1. Brad "Superman" Katona (14-5)
2. Darrion "The Wolf" Caldwell (14-7)
3. Javid "The Snow Leopard" Basharat (15-2)
4. "Magic" Marlon Moraes (23-13-1)
5. "Gentleman" Josh Hill (23-8)
6. Jonathan Brookins (16-11)
7. Renan "The Baron" Barao (34-10)
8. Rob "The Saint" Emerson (20-15)
9. "The Young Punisher" Pedro Munhoz (20-10)
10. Eduardo "Dudu" Dantas (23-8)
11. Michinori Tanaka (16-4)
12. Patchy "No Love" Mix (20-4)
13. Asaf "Honey Badger" Chopurov (10-0)
14. "Merciless" Mitchell McKee (10-0)
15. Mateus "I'm Ready" Soares (10-2)
16. Raphael Assuncao (27-10)
17. Daniel "Brazilian King" Araujo (8-1)
18. "Mr. Perfect" Kyung Ho Kang (19-11)
19. Josh "The Finisher" Rettinghouse (20-5)
20. Adriano "Mikinho" Moraes (21-6)
21. "The California Kid" Urijah Faber (35-11)
22. Rodrigo "El Gato Loco" Vera (21-1-1)
23. Jonas "Shark" Magard (19-7)
24. Weslley "Magic" Maia (12-6)

 

[Shade]

GLOBAL FIGHT LEAGUE BANTAMWEIGHT BRACKETOLOGY​

MG: Welcome back ladies and gentleman to the GFL Bantamweight title tournament bracketology event. So far we have announced three quarters of the field. Now we will learn of the final eight men set to compete in the Bantamweight title tournament. So let's go to Alex for the final wave?

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 25 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Thank you Mike. For Entrant 2 we head to Russia for the current reigning ACA Bantamweight champion Mehdi Baydulaev.

MG: This is a dangerous entrant to the field. A skilled submission artist and elite grappler.

RB: In what is already a stacked field. We now have a new favorite in play.

BS: Baydulaev is a big add. He's a nightmare fight in that he's not the biggest name but everyone in the know knows how good he is.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 26 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Our next competitor fights out of Brazil and is a veteran of One FC and Dream. He is a multiple time world champion with an elite grappling pedigree.. Bibiano Fernandes!

MG: Now this is huge! One of the most accomplished Bantamweight fighters of all time enters the GFL!

RB: This guy is an absolute master. Years of refinement in his craft and dangerous everywhere.

BS: He's been doing this forever at a high level. Even now he's still at the top!

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 27 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Our 27th entrant fights out of Wales. He is a UFC and Bellator veteran.. Brett Johns!

MG: Johns is so tough and well rounded. He is a solid add to this tournament.

RB: Johns thrives in close quarters. He is great at collapsing space.

BS: He's so strong as well. So strong for Bantamweight.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 28 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Off the back of several grapplers. Our next entrant is a striker from the UFC with 9 knockout wins to his credit. A veteran of the UFC... Jonathan Pearce!

MG: I like this addition. Pearce did fight in heavier weights previously but he started his career as a Bantamweight. I think this return could play dividens.

BS: This guy likes an ugly fight. He is a true dog who is looking to finish.

RB: Pearce overwhelms you. On the feet he breaks rhythm and can shock people.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 29 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant is a UFC and PFL veteran who holds wins over Andre Harrison, Marlon Moraes and Julio Arce. Fighting out of Brazil.. Sheymon Moraes!

MG: Moraes is deadly on the feet. This is a dangerous man to stand with.

BS: He's a flashy striker but there is crushing power along with it.

RB: He's at his most dangerous when he is comfortable and has found his range. His creativity can be game changing.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 30 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant also fights out of Brazil and is an LFA veteran.. Rafael Pereira.

MG: This is a dangerous prospect with very well rounded skills. He is an intriguing addition to the bracket.

BS: This is the guy who can sneak up on you. He can upset the field for sure.

RB: Pereira represents uncertainty. That uncertainty makes him a dangerous threat.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 31 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Our 31st entrant in the tournament is a Cage Warriors standout. Born in Iran but fighting out of England.. Shirzad Qadrian!

MG: Talk about adding more depth to this division. Qadrian has strong tournament history and he has the style to continue his winning ways.

RB: Qadrian has a high level grappling game and he is great at imposing that.

BS: He is a problem for this division. Qadrian is capable of grounding anyone!

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 32 ----------------------------------------------

AW: We are now at our final entrant into the tournament. He is a UFC veteran and former UFC Bantamweight champion who has beaten the likes of Renan Barao, Cody Garbrandt and Raphael Assuncao in his career.. TJ Dillashaw!

MG: Dillashaw is back! One of the most skilled Bantamweights of all time enters the tournament.

RB: If TJ is switched on he is capable of beating anyone.

BS: He is evolution. TJ is all about movement, angles and rhythm. He is a constantly shifting puzzle.

MG: We have now confirmed the field for the tournament and will be back soon to confirm the opening matches for the Bantamweight title tournament!

GFL BANTAMWEIGHT TOURNAMENT LIST
1. Brad "Superman" Katona (14-5)
2. Darrion "The Wolf" Caldwell (14-7)
3. Javid "The Snow Leopard" Basharat (15-2)
4. "Magic" Marlon Moraes (23-13-1)
5. "Gentleman" Josh Hill (23-8)
6. Jonathan Brookins (16-11)
7. Renan "The Baron" Barao (34-10)
8. Rob "The Saint" Emerson (20-15)
9. "The Young Punisher" Pedro Munhoz (20-10)
10. Eduardo "Dudu" Dantas (23-8)
11. Michinori Tanaka (16-4)
12. Patchy "No Love" Mix (20-4)
13. Asaf "Honey Badger" Chopurov (10-0)
14. "Merciless" Mitchell McKee (10-0)
15. Mateus "I'm Ready" Soares (10-2)
16. Raphael Assuncao (27-10)
17. Daniel "Brazilian King" Araujo (8-1)
18. "Mr. Perfect" Kyung Ho Kang (19-11)
19. Josh "The Finisher" Rettinghouse (20-5)
20. Adriano "Mikinho" Moraes (21-6)
21. "The California Kid" Urijah Faber (35-11)
22. Rodrigo "El Gato Loco" Vera (21-1-1)
23. Jonas "Shark" Magard (19-7)
24. Weslley "Magic" Maia (12-6)
25. Mehdi Baydulaev (19-2)
26. Bibiano "The Flash" Fernandes (25-6)
27. "The Pikey" Brett Johns (21-6)
28. Jonathan "JSP" Pearce (14-7)
29. Sheymon Moraes (17-7)
30. Rafael "Mini Man" Pereira (15-4)
31. Shirzad "The Lion" Qadrian (8-1)
32. TJ Dillashaw (17-5)

 

[Shade]

GFL BANTAMWEIGHT BRACKETOLOGY! ​

AW: Ladies and Gentleman, welcome back to the Global Fight League. With our field of thirty two Bantamweights confirmed, we will now unveil the groups and first round match ups of this Bantamweight tournament. So as we begin to announce the opening round matches and groups for this tournament. Allow me first to introduce our guest panel.. We start with two former title contenders and UFC veterans Kenny Florian and Dan Hardy. We then have former Strikeforce champion Josh Thompson. Along with them we have women's MMA pioneer Julie Kedzie as well MMA refereeing icon John McCarthy. Rounding out our seven are MMA journalists Helen Yee and the Schmo! So let's get our announcements underway!

Group A
Javid Basharat vs. Brett Johns
Adriano Moraes vs. Weslley Maia

JM: This is a balanced group to start the field. We have a great mix of experience and rising talent in Group A.

JT: Lets start with Basharat and Johns. That is a fight which promises to be a real grind. Both of these men know how to make a fight very gritty!

DH: Basharat is so composed and technical. He capitalizes on every mistake opponents make. Whereas Johns is so physically strong he can implement his will.

JK: It's such an evenly matched fight. Basharat may have a slight striking edge while Johns has a grappling one. This is a case of who can force the other into their game.

HY: Then on the other side of the group we have Cage Warriors Champion Weslley Maia facing his most experienced and dangerous opponent to date as he faces Adriano Moraes.

TS: Maia is a gamer. He is a true game day fighter who rises to the occasion. He is dangerous everywhere but Moraes is so skilled he's a massive threat.

KF: Moraes is definitely the favorite in this block. But that name value will definitely put a bounty on his back. Maia is someone more than capable of proving to be a spoiler.

Group B
Patchy Mix vs. Jonas Magard
Asaf Chopurov vs. Jonathan Pearce

KF: Now this is a very dangerous batch of finishers. Both on the feet and on the canvas.

JM: Man, Mix and Magard truly is a chess match on the ground. Both of these guys are elite.

DH: Normally we'd say a fight which hits the ground is Mix's for the taking but here we have someone who can match him.

KF: Mix can't be overconfident here. Magard is called the shark for a reason. He can catch you with ease.

TS: Then on the other side we have chaos as Aaf Chopurov battles Jonathan Pearce.

JK: Pearce dropping the weight alone was interesting but fighting this top unbeaten standout. This truly is a compelling bout.

HY: I think the winner of this group is someone to watch for this tournament. Surviving this batch is no easy choice.

Group C
Shirzad Qadrian vs. Jonathan Brookins
Mitchell McKee vs. Rob Emerson

DH: Well we definitely know the story of this group. We have two talented young prospects matched up with experienced veterans.

JT: Brookins and Qadrian is a clash of two bulls. Both are wrestling heavy and will look to get the other down.

HY: Qadrian is very good at riding out a fight and stealing rounds while Brookins will always look for the submission.

JM: That is a fight of inches. Which man can establish their positions and force the other out of their comfort zone.

JK: Then on the other side undefeated Mitchell McKee faces his most experienced opponent yet in Rob Emerson.

KF: Man, Emerson is all about grit. He is capable of making fights these messy exhanges.

TS: Whereas McKee and his wrestling. He is so technical. It's just a case of can he solve this puzzle.

Group D
Michinori Tanaka vs. Kyung Ho Kang
Daniel Araujo vs. Rodrigo Vera

TS: Japan, South Korea, Brazil and Peru. Group D is where we really go Global!

KF: Tanaka and Kang is a great veteran bout at the top of this group. These two have fought everyone and everywhere.

JT: It's a surprise this fight hasn't happened sooner. Tanaka vs. Kang is experience against adaptability.

DH: Both these men can strike but it's going to be the grappling where this fight will be at it's most compelling.

JK: Then we have Daniel Araujo vs. Rodrigo Vera. That is an explosive fight.

JM: Both of these men know how to hunt for a finish. This match is a coin toss with who gets in first.

HY: We have a real contrast in this group. A very controlled opening fight and then certified chaos in the second. It is a fascinating styles clash.

Group E
Darrion Caldwell vs. Renan Barao
Mateus Soares vs. Sheymon Moraes

JM: Now this is a big start to the second batch of groups.

JT: Caldwell against Barao is a big one. A former Bellator champion vs. a former UFC champion. That is a main eventer on many cards.

DH: This fight is all for legacy. We have seen both men go through the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. This is a fight where we will see what they have left.

JK: What will dictate this fight will be if Caldwell can use his wrestling. We know Barao will have an edge on the feet but it's the wrestling which will make a difference.

TS: Then on the side of the group we have Mateus Soares against Sheymon Moraes. That is a sleeper fight if I've ever seen one.
HY: Both of these men are dangerous. Someone will be getting put away here.

KF: This is a group filled with finishing potential. It will be someone worth watching to survive.

Group F
Brad Katona vs. Mehdi Baydulaev
Rafael Pereira vs. Josh Rettinghouse

HY: Now this is a tricky group to predict.

JM: this first fight between Katona and Mehdi will be fascinating. Mehdi is looked at as a tournament favorite but Katona is so gritty.

TS: There is Cinderella story potential in this one. Katona is very skilled.

DH: At the same time this fight will be a great test for Mehdi in his first fight on the national stage..

KF: On the other side of the group we'll see Rafael Pereira take on veteran Josh Rettinghouse.

JK: Rettinghouse is a sleeper in this tournament. This man is always competitive regardless of who he steps in there with.

JT: At the same time Pereira is a dangerous fighter who is capable of ending a fight in an instant.

Group G
Marlon Moraes vs. Eduardo Dantas
Josh Hill vs. Bibiano Fernandes

JM: This is as tough and competitive a group as we've seen so far.

JT: Moraes and Dantas is a violent fight. These two are deadly.

HY: Both of these men are finishers. With their records someone is bound to fall.

DH: It's a clash of former champions. It's not just a tournament fight but one for legacy.

KF: Then we go from a clash of strikers to a grappling clash between Josh Hill and Bibiano Fernandes.

JK: Hill is very much a top heavy wrestler. Someone capable of riding out rounds while Bibiano is a deadly submission threat

TS: I think it's safe to say that the winner of this group will definitely be considered a tournament favorite.

Group H
Pedro Munhoz vs. Urijah Faber
Raphael Assuncao vs. TJ Dillashaw

DH: What a way to close things out. A true headline group.

JT: Faber and Munhoz is a war. These men can strike, grapple and wrestle. This is going to be something.

JK: Plus Faber will be looking to avenge one of his students Cody Garbrandt who had previously fallen to Pedro.

JM: I think as good as the opening of this group is, it's just as fun to play fantasy matchmaker for the second round of this group.

HY: Then the other match is a trilogy fight as Raphael Assuncao takes on TJ Dillashaw.

TS: Two fights, a win apiece both by decision. It will be great to see a conclusion.

KF: Well now we have the opening round match ups announced. Lets take a look at the cards for GFL 13 and 14!

GFL 13 - Paris, France
Alexander Luster (9-2) vs. Nicholas Hwende (10-2)
John Sweeney (14-4) vs. Tiago Pereira (9-0)
Pavel Andrusca (7-0) vs. Damien Anderson (5-0)
Mokhtar Benkaci (25-10) vs. Abdul Hussein (15-2)
Khalim Nazruloev (12-0) vs. Cody Stamman (22-8-1)
Moustapha Aida (11-3) vs. Dzhamaludin Aliev (11-0)
Sean Mora (7-1) vs. Ruslan Kasymaly uulu (11-0)
Damián Fernández (6-0) vs. Kadeem Perkins (4-0)
Shinebaatar Bat-Erdene (7-1) vs. Sami Yahia (14-6)
Ruslan Amuev (11-0) vs. Caolán Loughran (10-3)
Matheus Correia (12-0) vs. Kris Moutinho (14-8)
Main Card
Mateus Soares (10-2) vs. Sheymon Moraes (17-7)
Brad Katona (14-5) vs, Mehdi Baydulaev (19-2)
Rodrigo Vera (21-1-1) vs. Daniel Araujo (8-1)
Mitchell McKee (10-0) vs. Rob Emerson (20-15)
Adriano Moraes (21-6) vs. Weslley Maia (12-6)
Patchy Mix (20-4) vs. Jonas Magard (19-7)
Bibiano Fernandes (25-6) vs. Josh Hill (23-8)
Urijah Faber (35-11) vs. Pedro Munhoz (20-10)

GFL 14 - Milan, Italy
Alessandro Giordano (10-3) vs. Otari Tanzilovi (10-1)
Dylan Hazan (10-4) vs. Ullubiy Amirzhanov (6-0)
Emanuele Zaccaria (7-3) vs. Ezra Elliott (6-0)
Yryskeldi Duysheev (13-0) vs. Michele Martignoni (9-3)
Damiano Scogna (7-1-1) vs. Aboubakar Younousov (8-0)
Francesco Nuzzi (11-2) vs. Christian McAuley (6-0)
Miljan Zdravkovic (10-0) vs. Johnny Muñoz Jr (15-4)
Rogério Bontorin (17-6) vs. Harun Kurt (6-0)
Daniiar Toichubek uulu (12-0) vs. Charalampos Grigoriou (8-5)
Pietro Mochetti (5-2) vs. Mehemmedeli Osmanli (12-1)
Enrico Di Gangi (6-4) vs. Jae Woong Kim (16-9)
Main Card
Rafael Pereira (15-4) vs. Josh Rettinghouse (20-5)
Shirzad Qadrian (8-1) vs. Jonathan Brookins (16-11)
Michinori Tanaka (16-4) vs. Kyung Ho Kang (19-11)
Asaf Chopurov (10-0) vs. Jonathan Pearce (14-7)
Javid Basharat (15-2) vs. Brett Johns (21-6)
Darrion Caldwell (14-7) vs. Renan Barao (34-10)
Marlon Moraes (23-13-1) vs. Eduardo Dantas (23-8)
Raphael Assuncao (27-10) vs. TJ Dillashaw (17-5)

 

[Shade]

GFL 13

Paris, France​

The show opens with a shot of the Eiffel Tower lit up at night. From here we'd cut to various parts of Paris such as the treets and numerous cafes. From here we'd transition into the arena filled with bright lights and a buzzing crowd.

MG: From the city of light we are live in Paris, France! Tonight the GFL brings the Bantamweight tournament to one of the most iconic cities in the world and what a stage it is for some of the fastest, most technical fighters in the sport.

BS: Paris is a vibe! But inside this arena it is all business. These Bantamweights? They don't slow down. Speed, scrambles and striking. You are go

RB: Paris has long been the center of art, precision and expression. In many ways Bantamweight MMA is exactly that! It's movement, timing and creativity under pressure.

MG: The road to crowning a GFL Bantamweight champion begins here tonight. For these athletes, the margin for error is razor thin.

BS: This is a proving ground. Where potential is tested and contenders are born.

MG: Tonight 16 fighters enter the bantamweight tournament and 8 will leave victorious. For Brendan Schaub and Robin Black, I'm Mike Goldberg. This is GFL 13 and the prelims start now!

Alexander Luster (9-2) vs. Nicholas Hwende (10-2)
Two top prospects would collide in a clash between Germany and Zimbabwe when Alexander Luster took on Nicholas Hwende. This would be a tale of two fights as in the early going Hwende managed to use his reach and striking advantage to keep Luster at range. Unfortunately for Hwende one trip would be the difference maker as Luster from top position would land several short elbows and punches before securing a kimura for the submission.
Result: Alexander Luster (10-2) defeated Nicholas Hwende (10-3) by submission (kimura) in the 1st round (4:56)

John Sweeney (14-4) vs. Tiago Pereira (9-0)
The second bout of the night would see two men who in the run up had voiced their displeasure at not being in the tournament as LFA Bantamweight champion John Sweeney took on Jungle Fight champion Tiago Pereira. This would be a highly technical fight with both men showing their skills on the ground as well as on the feet. With the first two rounds being razor thin in the third round Pereira managed to drop Sweeney which swayed the decision
Result: Tiago Pereira (10-0) defeated John Sweeney (14-5) by split decision (29-28, 30-27 and 28-29)

Pavel Andrusca (7-0) vs. Damien Anderson (5-0)
Two top undefeated prospects did battle in the next bout as grappling ace Damien Anderson took on Moldovan striker Pavel Andrusca. The majority of this fight would see Anderson take Pavel down and control him. This included threatening with submissions and landing ground and pound. This would be until late in the third when Pavel managed to get to his feet against the cage and land a series of short elbows to the side of Damien's head which led to him turtling up for a TKO finish.
Result: Pavel Andrusca (8-0) defeated Damien Anderson (5-1) by TKO in the 3rd round (3:14)

Mokhtar Benkaci (25-10) vs. Abdul Hussein (15-2)
The first home country fighter on the card Mokhtar Benkaci would face Finland's Abdul Hussein in the next bout. Unfortunately this would be a bard start to the home town fighters as early in the round Hussein managed to drop Benkaci with a double jab followed by a straight. From here Hussein would take top control and very much keep control of Benkaci until taking his back and securing a choke to close the round.
Result: Abdul Hussein (16-2) defeated Mokhtar Benkaci (25-11) by submission (rear naked choke) in the 1st round (4:56)

Khalim Nazruloev (12-0) vs. Cody Stamman (22-8-1)
UFC Veteran Cody Stamman would be in action against undefeated standout Khalim Nazruloev. The former One FC standout Khalim would quickly secure a takedown on Cody Stamman and waste little time in moving into half guard. From here Khalim would punish Cody with a series of punches and elbows until the official called the fight for a TKO finish.
Result: Khalim Nazruloev (13-0) defeated Cody Stamman (22-9-1) by TKO in the 1st round (2:46)

Moustapha Aida (11-3) vs. Dzhamaludin Aliev (11-0)
Off the back of one of his countryman suffering a defeat. The pressure was on for Moustapha Aida in the next bout as he took on undefeated prospect Dzhamaludin Aliev. Unfortunately for Aida this would not be the fight he would have hoped for as Aliev dropped him early with a big overhand. From here Aliev wasted little time following up with several punches on the ground for a swift knockout.
Result: Dzhamaludin Aliev (12-0) defeated Moustapha Aida (11-4) by KO in the 1st round (0:43)

Sean Mora (7-1) vs. Ruslan Kasymaly uulu (11-0)
Off the back of several brutal finishes, the next fight of the night would be the total opposite unfortunately for the crowd in Paris. As the next bout would very much be a wrestling clinic when Ruslan Kasymaly Uulu continued his unbeaten record in a listless decision when he continually took down Sean Mora and controlled him for a decision.
Result: Ruslan Kasmaly uulu (12-0) defeated Sean Mora (7-2) by unanimous decision

Damián Fernández (6-0) vs. Kadeem Perkins (4-0)
Two highly regarded, undefeated prospects would collide in the next bout of the night as Damian Fernandez took on Kadeem Perkins. This fight would very much be the classic striker vs. grappler match as Kadeem looked to constantly bring Damian to the ground to nullify his boxing. After three close rounds of action in which both men had their moments it would be Damian who was awarded a disputed decision finish.
Result: Damian Hernandez (7-0) defeated Kadeem Perkins (4-1) by split decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)

Shinebaatar Bat-Erdene (7-1) vs. Sami Yahia (14-6)
Off the back of a disappointing fight, the next bout of the night would be a wild one as Mongolia's Shinebaatar Bat-Erdene and Sami Yahia very much slugged it out for fifteen minutes. This would be a wild affair with some heavy strikes landed on both sides but it was the volumbe which Bat-Erdene employed which overwhelmed Yahia for a decision.
Result: Shinebaatar Bat-Erdene (8-1) defeated Sami Yahia (14-7) by unanimous decision (30-27 x30)

Ruslan Amuev (11-0) vs. Caolán Loughran (10-3)
Undefeated ACA standout Ruslan Amuev would take on UFC veteran Caolan Loughran in the next fight of the night. This would be a dominant showcase for Amuev who took down Loughgran at will and very much controlled him from top position on his way to a unanimous decision verdict.
Result: Ruslan Amuev (12-0) defeated Caolan Loughran (10-4) by unanimous decision

Matheus Correia (12-0) vs. Kris Moutinho (14-8)
The final bout on the prelims would see undefeated kickboxer Matheus Correia take on UFC veteran Kris Moutinho. This fight would be a dominant, one sided showing as Matheus very much picked apart and out classed Moutinho on the feet. Despite showing a ton of heart in refusing to fall, Moutinho could offer nothing in response as Matheus cruised to a decision.
Result: Matheus Correia (13-0) defeated Kris Moutinho (14-9) by unanimous decision (20-25, 30-26 and 30-24)

As the main card opens up we see clips of Paris at night. This closes out with the sparkle of the Eiffel Tower. From here we cut to inside a packed arena with fans waving flags while lights sweep across the building. Standing in the center of the cage if Dasha who welcomes the crowd in attendance.

DK: Bonsoir Paris! Welcome to the GFL 13! As we are live from one of the worlds most iconic cities Paris, France. Tonight the Bantamweight tournament will officially begin a sixteen of the worlds best bantamweights will enter the cage with only eight leaving and advancing to the second round! So before we officially begin lets head to our commentary team.

MG: Thank you Dasha and once again everyone welcome to Paris! What an incredible atmosphere we have tonight as the Bantamweight tournament gets underway! This is one of the deepest divisions we have seen so far.. Win you advance and lose and your dream is over.

BS: Goldie, I think Bantamweight honestly doesn't get enough credit. But tonight people are going to see how crazy this division can be. These guys are fast, scramble like crazy and don't gas out. Plus with this bracket there is no easy fight!

RB: 135 is movement. It's all about rhythm which is broken and rebuilt in real time. In a setting like this adaption becomes the ultimate meaning of survival.

MG: We have eight fights on the main card tonight all with major implications on the bracket while our main event will see a clash of veterans and legends when Pedro Munhoz takes on Urijah Faber!

BS: That's a tough fight man. Munhoz brings pressure and heavy hands but Faber's experience is vast.

RB: That is a true clash of generations. Where timing meets tenacity.

MG: For Brendan Schaub and Robin Black, I am Mike Goldberg. This is GFL 13 live from Paris, France. Let's get to the fights!

Mateus Soares (10-2) vs. Sheymon Moraes (17-7)
To kick off the night we would see a bout between two finishers as Mateus Soares took on WSOF and UFC veteran Sheymon Moraes. With both men notorious for their finishes it was no surprise this one began tentative with a lot of feints and circling. Moraes would open up early and begin to throw some leg kicks when one would be caught and Soares would land a big overhand. This dropped Sheymon and several follow up punches on the ground would produce an early knockout victory!
Result: Mateus Soares (11-2) defeated Sheymon Moraes (17-8) by knockout in the 1st round (1:23)

Brad Katona (14-5) vs, Mehdi Baydulaev (19-2)
The second bout of the evening would see Ultimate Fighter winner Brad Katona take on ACA champion Mehdi Baydulaev. Unfortunately for the fans in attendance this fight would be spent primarily against the cage as Brad Katona looked to keep him pressed with underhooks. This would be until the third round where Baydulaev was able to catch a gassing Katona in a standing guillotine for the submission.
Result: Mehdi Baydulaev (20-2) defeated Brad Katona (14-6) by submission (guillotine choke) in the 3rd round (3:03)

Rodrigo Vera (21-1-1) vs. Daniel Araujo (8-1)
Match three would be a clash from Latin America as Peru's Rodrigo Vera took on Brazilian Boxing standout Daniel Araujo. Showing his veteran instincts early off after being tagged with a few punches, Vera would secure a takedown on Araujo. From here the fight would be all Vera as he negated Daniel's attempts to return to his feet and punished him with ground and pound for a TKO stoppage!
Result: Rodrigo Vera (22-1-1) defeated Daniel Araujo (8-2) by TKO in the 1st round (4:07)

Mitchell McKee (10-0) vs. Rob Emerson (20-15)
Undefeated standout Mitchell McKee would face veteran Rob Emerson in the next bout of the night. This would be a quick and dominant showing for the unbeaten McKee as he wasted no time in securing a big takedown on Rob before managing to take the mount. In Rob's attempts to roll, Mitchell would take his back and begin to punish Emerson with punches for an early TKO finish.
Result: Mitchell McKee (11-0) defeated Rob Emerson (20-16) by TKO in the first round (1:36)

Adriano Moraes (21-6) vs. Weslley Maia (12-6)
Former ONE FC champion Adriano Moraes would take on fellow Countryman and current reigning Cage Warriors champ Weslley Maia in the next bout. This fight would get off to a quick start as Maia not only took Moraes down but came close to securing a rear naked choke. Moraes would fight himself out and end up in a top position where from here he'd land some brutal Ground and pound. This led to Maia turtling up for a TKO finish.
Result: Adriano Moraes (22-6) defeated Weslley Maia (12-7) by TKO in the 1st round (4:48)

Patchy Mix (20-4) vs. Jonas Magard (19-7)
Off the back of a series of quick finishes, the next bout would see two elite grapplers face off as former Bellator champion Patchy Mix battled Jonas Magard. This fight unfortunately would be a highly tentative fight with neither man seeking to engage out of respect for each other's ground game. After three rounds of inactivity, we'd see the judges award Mix with the decision.
Result: Patchy Mix (21-4) defeated Jonas Magard (19-8) by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

Bibiano Fernandes (25-6) vs. Josh Hill (23-8)
Following off the back of one plodding and unexciting affair would unfortunately be one more when grapplers Bibiano Fernandes and Josh Hill did battle. Unlike the previous fight these two didn't mind going to the ground but once there they would effectively stifle and cancel one another out. After three rounds it would be Bibiano Fernandes who was awarded the decision.
Result: Bibiano Fernandes (26-6) defeated Josh Hill (23-9) by unanimous decision (30-27)

Urijah Faber (35-11) vs. Pedro Munhoz (20-10)
Finally it was time for the main event of the evening as legend Urijah Faber collided with UFC veteran Pedro Munhoz. Off the back of two disappointing fights, this fight would be a spirited effort with both fighters willing to engage. While on the feet it was Pedro who had an edge thanks to his heavy hands, it was the wrestling of Faber which proved to be a difference maker as he took Pedro down on several occasions and looked for submissions on his way to a decision.
Result: Urijah Faber (36-11) defeated Pedro Munhoz (20-11) by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)

MG: The California Kid turns back the clock again!

BS: It's great seeing Faber back in the cage. That was definitely a fun way to get back into the winning column against a very game opponent.

RB: Take nothing away from Pedro. He came to fight and he came to win.

MG: Well ladies and gentleman, that is all we have time for tonight but we will be back soon for GFL 14.

 

[Shade]

GFL 14

Milan, Italy
​

We open the show with sweeping drone shots of Milan including the Duomo di Milano, narrow streets, fashion districts and the neon nightlife. this is before we transition into the arena exterior with fans pouring in.
MG: Ladies and Gentleman welcome to the GFL. We are live today from the Fashion capital of the world.. Milan, Italy.

BS: Milan is all about style Goldie but tonight is about substance as we continue the GFL Bantamweight title tournament.

RB: Milan is a city of design, precision and expression. In many ways the fighters tonight reflect that philosophy.

MG: These early prelims are where journeys begin. For some of these athletes, this is their first step on a global stage. For others it’s a chance to prove they belong among the best.

BS: And you know how it goes one big finish, one big moment and suddenly everyone’s talking about you.

RB: Every exchange tonight carries consequence. A moment too late, a movement too slow and the opportunity vanishes.

MG: The road to the GFL Bantamweight Championship rolls on tonight. From Paris to Milan and beyond. This is GFL 14 and the prelims begin now!

Alessandro Giordano (10-3) vs. Otari Tanzilovi (10-1)
Opening the show would be an international clash as Italy took on Georgia when Cage Warriors standout Alessandro Giordano took on Contender Series standout Otari Tanzilovi. This would be a competitive and fun start to the night with both men coming out aggressive in what was an affair solely contested on the feet. After a very back and forth opening round we'd see the second round open with Otari dropping Giordano and never letting up on him. While Giordano managed to survive, in the next round he'd return the favor and come very close to putting away Otari with a big knee to the body. In the end the fight would go to a split decision with the native fighter being victorious.
Result: Alessandro Giordano (11-3) defeated Otari Tanzilovi (10-2) by split decision (30-27, 28-29 and 29-28)

Dylan Hazan (10-4) vs. Ullubiy Amirzhanov (6-0)
Another local Cage Warriors' standout would be in action in the next bout of the night as Dylan Hazan took on Russian submission artist Ullubiy Amirzhanov. The undefeated UAE standout would waste little time in shooting in for a takedown on Hazan. From here we'd see Amirzhanov have little issue in attaining side control on Hazan who seemingly had little resistance on the ground before Ullubiy would manage to clamp on an arm triangle choke for the victory.
Result: Ullibiy Amirzhanov (7-0) defeated Dylan Hazan by submission (arm triangle choke) in the 1st round (1:18)
Emanuele Zaccaria (7-3) vs. Ezra Elliott (6-0)
Two skilled submission artists would do battle in the next bout of the night as undefeated standout Ezra Elliott would take on Italy's Emanuele Zaccaria. In comparison to our earlier bout in the night which was a stand up back and forth battle. This contest would be the total opposite as we saw a chess match on the ground between these two submission artists. With both men able to cancel one another out in some impressive scrambles and submission attempts before we'd finally see a split decision verdict awarded to Elliott.
Result: Ezra Elliott (7-0) defeated Emanuele Zaccaria (7-4) by split decision (29-28 x2 and 28-29)

Yryskeldi Duysheev (13-0) vs. Michele Martignoni (9-3)
Off the back of two of his countrymen falling, Cage Warriors veteran Michele Martignoni would take on undefeated ONE FC standout Yryskeldi Duysheev. Unfortunately for the Italian fans this would be a dominant showing for Duysheev as he swiftly took down Martignoni and was able to control Michele for the entire opening round. The second round would be very much the same with Duysheev not letting up on Martignoni before he'd secure a D'Arce choke for the submission.
Result: Yryskeldi Duysheev (14-0) defeated Michele Martignon (9-4) by submission (D'arce choke) in the 2nd round (2:43)

Damiano Scogna (7-1-1) vs. Aboubakar Younousov (8-0)
Cage Warriors standout Damiano Scogna would take on undefeated prospect Aboubakar Younousov in the next bout. This bout would be a showcase for France's champion Younousov who dominated Scogna on the feet and actually dropped him on two occasions on the feet in the opening round. Scogna to his credit would show a ton of heart as he refused to go down but late in the round he'd eat a left cross followed by a right uppercut which dropped him for a TKO finish.
Result: Aboubakar Younousov (9-0) defeated Damiano Scogna (7-2-1) by TKO in the 1st round (4:52)

Francesco Nuzzi (11-2) vs. Christian McAuley (6-0)
Undefeated prospect Christian McAuley would take on PFL standout Francesco Nuzzi in the next bout. This fight at first would look like a disaster for another local fighter with McAuley taking Nuzzi down and controlling him. Yet Nuzzi would be able to battle his way to his feet and during a clinch he would land a short elbow to McAuley. This would drop McAuley and we'd see Nuzzi land several follow up strikes for a flash TKO finish.
Result: Francesco Nuzzi (12-2) defeated Christian McAuley (6-1) by TKO in the 2nd round (0:57)

Miljan Zdravkovic (10-0) vs. Johnny Muñoz Jr (15-4)
UFC veteran Johnny Munoz Jr would be in action in the next bout of the night as he took on undefeated Serbian Miljan Zdravkovic. This would be a dominant showing for Miljan as he took down Munoz several times thoughout the fight and would punish him with ground and pound. During the third round we'd see Mijan take the back of Munoz and further begin to punish him with ground and pound for a TKO finish.
Result: Miljan Zdravkovic (11-0) defeated Johnny Munoz Jr (15-5) by TKO in the 3rd round (2:04)
Rogério Bontorin (17-6) vs. Harun Kurt (6-0)
Oktagon star Harun Kurt would enter in a career best performance as he took on UFC and Bellator veteran Rogerio Bontorin. On the feet Kurt would manage to pick Bontorin off with his jab while also defend against the takedown attempts made by Bontorin. As Bontorin's takedowns only became more desperate we would see Kurt turn up the volume of his striking and completely shut out Bontorin for a unanimous decision victory.
Result: Harun Kurt (7-0) defeated Rogerio Bontorin (17-7) by decision (30-27 x3)
Daniiar Toichubek uulu (12-0) vs. Charalampos Grigoriou (8-5)
UFC veteran Charalmpos Grigoriou would be in action in the next bout of night as he took on undefeated standout Daniiar Toichubek uulu. This would be a dominant showcase for uulu who dropped Grigoriou with a big overhand. This would set the tone for the bout as Grigoriou never recovered fully from the shot and uulu would continue to punish him on the feet. As the round nearly closed we'd see uulu drop Grigoriou once more for a TKO finish.
Result: Daniiar Toichubek uulu (13-0) defeated Charalampos Grigoriou (8-6) by TKO in the 1st round (4:47)
Pietro Mochetti (5-2) vs. Mehemmedeli Osmanli (12-1)
The next bout of the night would see local fighter Pietro Mochetti take on UAE standout Mehemmedeli Osmanli. This would be a one sided fight from the off as Osmanli wasted no time in bringing the bout to the ground. From here Osmanli punished Mochetti with ground and pound before locking in a tight guillotine choke for a quick submission victory.
Result: Mehemmedeli Osmanli (13-1) defeated Pietro Mochetti (5-3) by submission (guillotine choke) in the 1st round (0:54)
Enrico Di Gangi (6-4) vs. Jae Woong Kim (16-9)
The final bout of the preliminary card would see Enrico Di Gangi take on One veteran Jae Woong Kim. This fight would start out very scrappy with Di Gangi looking for a big flying knee from the start. The fight would wage on with both men having their moments through the opening round, this would be until Kim landed a big series of punches which dropped Di Gangi. From here Kim followed with several hammerfists for a knockout.
Result: Jae Woong Kim (17-9) defeated Enrico Di Gangi (6-5) by knockout in the 1st round (2:45)

Our main card then opens with sweeping shots of Milan at night. With the Duomo glowing under lights, luxury streets packed with fans in GFL gear, arena exterior illuminated in red and gold. Pyro erupts inside the arena as the camera pans across a packed crowd before we head to the cage where Dasha is standing by.
DK: Buonasera, Milan!
The crowd roars.
DK: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to GFL 14, live from the beautiful city of Milan, Italy! Tonight, the Global Fight League Bantamweight Tournament continues as some of the best fighters from around the world step into the cage with championship dreams on the line. Every fight and every round matters here tonight. And by the end of the night, the path to the Bantamweight tournament will be all the more clear. We have an incredible lineup of fights ahead of us featuring legends, contenders, rising stars, and some of the most technical athletes in mixed martial arts today. So Milan, Are you ready?

The crowd roars once more as we then head to our commentary table.

MG: Thank you Dasha and what a way to get us started! The Bantamweight Tournament has already delivered incredible performances and tonight, we continue one of the deepest divisions in all of combat sports.

BS: Goldie, this card is stacked. You’ve got elite veterans, undefeated prospects, crazy stylistic matchups and at bantamweight, the pace never slows down.

RB: This division exists in constant motion. Footwork, feints, angles and reactions measured in fractions of a second.

MG: Later tonight, a former world champion returns to the spotlight as TJ Dillashaw faces longtime rival Raphael Assuncao for the third time!

BS: That’s just a high-level fight, man. Tons of history there.

RB: A rivalry revisited where memory becomes strategy.

MG: So for Brendan Schaub and Robin Black.. I'm Mike Goldberg and let the Bantamweight tournament continue!

Rafael Pereira (15-4) vs. Josh Rettinghouse (20-5)
The main card would open with a clash of two well rounded veterans as Rafael Pereira and Josh Rettinghouse would do battle. We would see both fighters come out and begin to circle around one another in respect of one another's skills. As the two began to engage with one another we'd see Josh Rettinghouse manage to drop Pereira with a left cross. Yet in what would later prove to be a mistake he would elect to go to the ground with his opponent. By opting to do this, Rettinghouse would put himself in position to be trapped in an arm bar and triangle choke for the submission to close the round.
Result: Rafael Pereira (16-4) defeated Josh Rettinghouse (20-6) by submission (Triangle/armbar) in the 1st round (3:57)

Shirzad Qadrian (8-1) vs. Jonathan Brookins (16-11)
Ultimate fighter champion Jonathan Brookins would take on Cage Warriors standout Shirzad Qadrian in the next bout of the night. As some might have expected this contest would be heavily focused on the grappling but to a big surprise this was one way traffic as Qadrian was able to out muscle Brookins and take him down at will. When on top we'd see Qadrian land some short strikes to punish Brookins. While these shots were never the most powerful, it did allow Qadrian to very much control and stifle Brookins for all three rounds of this fight on his way to a unanimous decision victory.
Result: Shirzad Qadrian (9-1) defeated Jonathan Brookins (16-12) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Michinori Tanaka (16-4) vs. Kyung Ho Kang (19-11)
Two veterans would collide in the next bout of the night as Michinori Tanaka took on Kyung Ho Kang. This fight would very much be a clash of styles with Tanaka looking to take down Kang anytime he had an option to shoot while Kang would aggressively charge forward looking for strikes. The story of this fight would be control against damage as when on top Tanaka wouldn't really offer any offense but instead would run the clock while in contrast, despite spending a lot of the fight on his back Kang would throw and land some very heavy shots. After three rounds the fight would be awarded to Kang in a much contested split decision.
Result: Kyung Ho Kang (20-11) defeated Michinori Tanaka (16-5) by split decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)

Asaf Chopurov (10-0) vs. Jonathan Pearce (14-7)
UFC veteran Jonathan Pearce would take on undefeated standout Asaf Chopurov in the next bout of the night. Coming out aggressive Pearce looked to establish range and land some punishing leg kicks on Chopurov. In response to this Chopurov would wade forward and pursue a takedown. Managing to back Pearce up onto the fence, Asaf would secure a big takedown of Pearce before wasting little time to take a dominant mount position. From here we'd see Chopurov rain down with punches and elbows onto Pearce until the referee was forced to call a stop to the contest in the late stage of the round.
Result: Asaf Chopurov (11-0) defeated Jonathan Pearce (14-8) by TKO in the 1st round (4:51)

Javid Basharat (15-2) vs. Brett Johns (21-6)
Two UFC veterans would collide in the next bout of the night as Javid Basharat took on Brett Johns. Noted for his grappling ability, Johns would spend the majority of this bout either shooting for takedowns or attempting to pull guard. Unfortunately for Brett, it seemed this game plan was very well scouted by Basharat. As not only did Basharat manage to defend well but he would also use his jab and straight punches to keep the fight at range. Sadly this would lead to a rather dull and unexciting fight for the fans in attendance but it was enough for Basharat to secure a unanimous decision verdict.
Result: Javid Basharat (16-2) defeated Brett Johns (21-7) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Darrion Caldwell (14-7) vs. Renan Barao (34-10)
The next bout of the night would be the first of two clashes of former world champions. This one being a battle of former Bellator and UFC champions we'd see Darrion Caldwell fight Renan Barao in what was very much billed as a wrestler vs striker clash. While Barao would come out aggressive looking to fire off some leg kicks, we would see Caldwell very much dominate and control this fight with his wrestling. Taking down Barao at will, Caldwell would not only manage to hold position but actually open Barao up with some vicious ground and pound as he cruised to a unanimous decision victory.
Result: Darrion Caldwell (15-7) defeated Renan Barao (34-11) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Marlon Moraes (23-13-1) vs. Eduardo Dantas (23-8)
We would then see our second clash of former champions as in this case former WSOF champion Marlon Moraes took on fellow countryman and former Bellator Champion Eduardo Dantas. Off the back of several ground heavy contests, these two fighters would come out highly aggressive on the feet. In what would become a wild skirmish on the feet we'd see both men have their moments before Moraes dropped Dantas with a punch. Wading in to finish Dantas however Moraes would run in and be caught with a big overhand, this would drop Moraes onto the canvas and Dantas followed up with several more strikes for a knockout victory.
Result: Eduardo Dantas (24-8) defeated Marlon Moraes (23-14-1) by knockout in the 1st round (1:19)

Raphael Assuncao (27-10) vs. TJ Dillashaw (17-5)
The final bout of the night would see TJ Dillashaw take on Raphael Assuncao in what was a trilogy fight. With both men having a decision victory over one another in their primes. This fight would see both men a little older but still as dangerous. In what was a surprisingly dull affair for the majority of the fight we would see Assuncao manage to keep Dillashaw pressed up against the fence. This would be until late in the third round we'd see Dillashaw land a short punch which dropped Assuncao to a knee and allowed TJ to follow up with several short punches for a come from behind TKO victory!
Result: TJ Dillashaw (18-5) defeated Raphael Assuncao (27-11) by TKO in the 3rd round (4:01)

MG: What a win for Dillashaw. He managed to turn back the clock here and overcome some major adversity.

BS: Assuncao was game but all it took was one moment to change the game.

RB: Lets not bury the lead either with this win, we will see TJ Dillashaw fight Urijah Faber in the second round. That is going to be huge!

MG: Well that is all we have time for tonight but we will be back soon for the GFL Flyweight bracketology.

 

[Shade]

GFL FLYWEIGHT BRACKETOLOGY​

MG: Off the back of an exciting GFL Bantamweight championship tournament opening round. We are back now today for the first wave of announcements for our Flyweight tournament. Thirty Two flyweights from around the globe will be competing for the right to become the inaugural GFL Flyweight champion. As always I am Mike Goldberg and I am joined by my colleagues Brendan Schaub and Robin Black. But for this event we have one more guest. He is the greatest Flyweight of all time... Demetrious Johnson!

BS: I couldn't think of a more perfect add to our panel. He is the best flyweight of all time!

RB: A true master of adaption, movement and mastery.

DJ: Really happy to be here guys. Flyweight as a division doesn't always get the spotlight they deserve. Especially for the fast, action packed action it delivers. So it's my pleasure to be here for the duration of what is going to be a fun tournament.

MG: With that let's go to Alex for our introductions.

--------------------------------------- ENTRANT #1 ---------------------------------------

AW: Thank you Mike. Our first entrant into the GFL Flyweight tournament is representing Russia. He is a UFC veteran and former title contender who has also previously held the Fight Nights Global Flyweight championship. A former world champion in Combat Sambo who has also competed in professional boxing.. Ali Bagautinov!

MG: What an excellent way to start out this tournament. A true veteran of the game who has fought some of the best that the Flyweight division has to offer.

BS: Bagautinov has a lot of big fight experience. This is a man who will not be intimidated by the stakes.

RB: This is a well rounded fighter who thrives in pressure. He is one of the most persistent fighters I have seen

DJ: I had the pleasure of fighting this man. He is what we call a nightmare fight in that the world may not know how good he is, but those on the inside know how tough, strong and powerful he is. This man is comfortable fighting anywhere the fight goes.

--------------------------------------- ENTRANT #2 ---------------------------------------

AW: Entrant number two is representing the Czech Republic. He is a UFC and Oktagon MMA veteran who has also competed in professional boxing... David Dvorak!

MG: I think we have a dark horse here. Dvorak is a fighter who will fly under a lot of radars.

BS: There is no wasted movement with Dvorak. Everything he does has purpose.

RB: He maybe patient but he is effective with it.

DJ: Dvorak is a highly intelligent fighter. He makes a game plan and sticks to it better than few others. His style and strategy is going to make him a threat in this.

--------------------------------------- ENTRANT 3 ---------------------------------------

AW: Our third entrant of the tournament is fighting out of the United States. He is a former Caged Aggression Flyweight champion and UFC veteran who competed on the Ultimate Fighter.. Eric Shelton!

MG: This is an exciting addition to the tournament. Eric Shelton is an elite level MMA fighter who is known for a high pace in his fights.

RB: Shelton is chaos. He doesn't stop pushing or pressing the action.

BS: There is a method to Shelton's madness and he is capable of upsetting many in the field.

DJ: Shelton maybe chaotic and definitely is unorthodox but what makes him dangerous is there is a method to what he does. He makes you uncomfortable and he makes you work. Shelton knows how to check your cardio and heart.

--------------------------------------- ENTRANT 4 ---------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant also fights out of the United States. He is a former UFC fighter as well as an Ultimate Fighter winner. On top of this he has also competed in Rizin as well as Bare Knuckle FC where he claimed the BKFC Flyweight championship.. John Dodson!

RB: Wow! This is a fun surprise. Dodson has fought and beaten some of the best.

BS: Dodson is explosive. He really brings together speed and power.

MG: There aren't many Flyweights who hit like Dodson. This man can end a fight in an instant.

DJ: To tag on to what has already been said. I fought Dodson on two occasions. I remember being stunned at how hard and fast he hit me. I've never been hit that hard in my career and if there is one thing we know, Dodson's power and speed are still present now.

--------------------------------------- ENTRANT 5 ---------------------------------------

AW: Our fifth entrant fights out of Hawaii. He is a veteran of the UFC, WSOF, Elite XC and King of the Cage. He has also competed in Karate Combat and Dirty Boxing. With over 15 knockouts to his credit including wins over Ali Bagautinov and Eduardo Dantas.. Tyson Nam!

MG: If we are talking about fight ending power, we have to mention Tyson Nam.

RB: Nam is able to put together such force. He can knock people out in heavier weights.

BS: What's scary is he's not a marauder. He's patient but can land at anytime.

DJ: To echo Brendan. What makes Nam so dangerous isn't that he wades forward but instead it's his timing and precision. He lulls you into a false sense of security and then puts you down in an instant.

--------------------------------------- ENTRANT 6 ---------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant represents the USA and is a veteran of the LFA and Bellator. Boasting an undefeated 11-0 pro record.. Phumi Nkuta.

MG: We've had some looks at the past and present so far. Now we have one for the future in Phumi Nkuta.

RB: Nkuta has a world of potential. He's so athletic as well which makes up for his less developed parts of the game.

BS: Nkuta will be confident. He has never lost in his pro career and you can be rest assured he has no intention of doing so.

DJ: Nkuta is definitely someone with the potential to flourish in this tournament. He comes from a great gym under Ray Longo and he has some exceptional grappling ability. This is definitely someone capable of upsetting the field.

--------------------------------------- ENTRANT 7 ---------------------------------------

AW: Entrant number 7 is a representative of America. He has fought previously in the UFC, King of the Cage and LFC.. Ray Borg!

MG: I've called many of this mans fights. When he is focused his grappling is a problem.

BS: Truly smothering. Ray Borg knows how to win fights in uncomfortable ways.

RB: Ray Borg is a fighter who thrives in deep water. He's a nightmare match up in brackets.

DJ: This is another fighter I know well. Borg is physically strong and an elite grappler. In the scrambles and in top position he is dangerous.

--------------------------------------- ENTRANT 8 ---------------------------------------

AW: Our final announcement of our first batch of entrants fights out of Mexico. He is the reigning LFL Flyweight Champion.. Paulino Siller.

MG: What a way to close out this first batch. Siller may not be a big name but he is a dangerous out.

RB: This is a guy who has been waiting for a moment like this.

BS: I tell you now. He could be a sleeper in this tournament.

DJ: Siller is someone who is perfect for a setting like this. Fluid on the feet but it's his ground work where the damage is done. This is a guy who can spoil a bracket and make it his.

MG: We are now a quarter of the way through but will be back soon for our next batch of announcements.

GFL FLYWEIGHT TOURNAMENT PARTICIPANTS
1. Ali "Puncher" Bagautinov (21-7)
2. David "Undertaker" Dvorak (22-7)
3. Eric "Showtime" Shelton (21-9)
4. John "The Magician" Dodson (24-15)
5. Tyson Nam (23-15-1)
6. Phumi "Turno" Nkuta (11-0)
7. Ray "The Tazmexican Devil" Borg (16-5)
8. Paulino "El Cuate" Siller (17-3)

 

[Shade]

GLOBAL FIGHT LEAGUE FLYWEIGHT BRACKETOLOGY
​

MG: Welcome back ladies and gentleman, to the second part of the GFL Flyweight championship tournament bracketology. We are a quarter of the way into the field and will head to Alex now for the next wave of introductions.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT #9 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Thank you Mike. Our 9th entrant is a true veteran of the game having competed in the UFC, Strikeforce, King of the Cage, RFA and Taichi. He holds wins over the likes of Alexandre Pantoja in his career.. Dustin Ortiz.

MG: I have called many of this mans fights. He is someone I always felt was on the cusp of a championship.

BS: Ortiz is a spoiler. He is someone who is able to surprise people constantly in fights.

RB: He has big time experience and he's able to maintain a pace like few others.

DJ: Dustin is someone I was fully aware of in the UFC. He's so well rounded and able to really surprise you. He's definitely in my opinion a dark horse in this field.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 10 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Our tenth entrant is representing England and he is a veteran of Cage Warriors.. Jawany Scott!

MG: A young man filled with potential. I like this addition.

RB: Jawany shows improvement with every fight. A new wrinkle in his striking or grappling each time.

BS: This is a big opportunity for Scott. He has a chance to make his name on a big stage here.

DJ: Jawany is an explosive young athlete. He maybe raw but he has the capability to rise to the occasion. Plus he does have reach on a lot of the participants we've seen so far. He just has to be sure to use it.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 11 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant eleven fights out of Brazil and is a former UFC veteran. A dangerous submission artist with 11 submission wins to his credit and wins over the likes of Deiveison Figueiredo and Sergio Pettis... Jussier Formiga!

MG: Formiga is an elite grappling threat in this tournament.

BS: You do not want to go to the ground with this guy. His grappling and submissions are elite.

RB: He is exceptional when it comes to position and control.

DJ: Formiga is a specialist. This is a man who is always dangerous because the threat of a takedown and his ground game is always there. You have to really mind your movement with this man.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 12 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant 12 is a UFC veteran fighting out of Russia. He holds victories over the likes of Joseph Benavidez and Alexandre Pantoja.. Askar Askarov.

MG: I maybe speaking soon but I think we have a top seed in this tournament for sure with this entrant.

BS: Askarov is legit. He is a punishing top heavy grappler.

RB: There are few men who can defend from his strength and grappling. This is a dangerous fighter.

DJ: Askarov is a staple of the influx of Dagestani wrestlers we have seen over the past few years. He is so controlling and dominant. This is a tough man to get an edge over.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 13 ----------------------------------------------

AW: We now come to entrant number 13 who fights out of South Africa. He is a former EFC champion who has finished 14 of his 16 career victories.. Nkazimulo Zulu!

MG: We continue to go Global with this announcement. Zulu is an all action fighter to say the least.

RB: This guy is so dangerous and explosive on the feet.

BS: He's unpredictable. He's so long and rangy also. It makes him a tough puzzle.

DJ: He has all the physical tools. While Zulu is definitely a little more unrefined in his style. He is effective and is dangerous to everyone.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 14 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant 14 is fighting out of Hawaii. He currently boasts an undefeated record and is the current, reigning Cage Fury Fighting Champion Bilal Hasan!

MG: This is a major addition to the tournament. Hasan is a top prospect.

RB: This kid is not just unbeaten but he is a finisher.

BS: Hasan is an action fighter. He fights with an urgency unlike few others.

DJ: Hasan is definitely a fighter to watch in a tournament like this. He is dominant and establishes his game fast. This is a favorite in my eyes.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 15 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant 15 is a UFC veteran and former title contender. He has also since competed in professional Boxing.. John Moraga!

MG: Moraga! This is a tremendous addition to the tournament.

BS: Moraga is a crafty veteran. Tons of big fight experience here.

RB: A real tough addition. He can do it all.

DJ: I fought Moraga. He is as tough as they come. Heavy hands and deceptive grappling. He is a big threat in this field.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 16 ----------------------------------------------

AW: As we now reach our halfway point. Our 16th entrant in this tournament fights out of France. He is the current reigning Cage Warriors Flyweight Champion.. Nicolas Leblond!

MG: This is a great add to the tournament. Leblond is definitely a sleeper choice in this tournament.

RB: He can grapple and he can strike. He is a well rounded threat.

BS: A guy like Leblond with his skillset can go far in this tournament. He is someone to watch.

DJ: He is an unknown variable to a lot of people. But this is a skilled fighter and someone who is definitely a contender in this fild.

MG: Well we are now at the halfway point and will be back soon for the next batch of entrants.

GFL FLYWEIGHT TOURNAMENT PARTICIPANTS
1. Ali "Puncher" Bagautinov (21-7)
2. David "Undertaker" Dvorak (22-7)
3. Eric "Showtime" Shelton (21-9)
4. John "The Magician" Dodson (24-15)
5. Tyson Nam (23-15-1)
6. Phumi "Turno" Nkuta (11-0)
7. Ray "The Tazmexican Devil" Borg (16-5)
8. Paulino "El Cuate" Siller (17-3)
9. Dustin Ortiz (20-9)
10. Jawany Scott (8-2)
11. Jussier Formiga (24-8)
12. Askar Askarov (15-1-1)
13. Nkazimulo "King Shaka" Zulu (16-9-1)
14. Bilal Hasan (8-0)
15. John "Chicano" Moraga (19-7)
16. Nicolas Leblond (13-4)

 

[Shade]

GFL FLYWEIGHT BRACKETOLOGY​

MG: Welcome back ladies and gentleman to the GFL Flyweight Bracketology event. We are now at the halfway point in announcing the field and will now go back to Alex to announce the third quarter.

-------------------------------------------------- Entrant #17 --------------------------------------------------

AW: Thank you Mike, for our seventeenth entrant in the tournament we go to Japan. A true veteran of the Japanese MMA scene and the current Rizin Flyweight champion... Hiromasa Ougikubo!

MG: Now this is a game changer. Hiro is one of the most experienced fighters in this field.

BS: Hiro can do it all. He is so well rounded.

RB: A true technician of the game. Hiro does not waste movement.

DJ: Hiro is a favorite in this field for sure. This is a man, I myself expected to fight at one stage in my career. His skillset is exceptional!

-------------------------------------------------- Entrant 18 --------------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant 18 is a UFC veteran fighting out of Hawaii... Louis Smolka!

MG: It is great to see Smolka here. He has a lot of big fight experience.

RB: Smolka is a finisher. He can knock you out and submit you.

BS: He is always entertaining. This guy is a wild one.

DJ: Smolka thrives in unpredictability. He can upset many fields.

-------------------------------------------------- Entrant 19 --------------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant 19 fights out of the UK by way of Bangladesh. He is a former Cage Warriors Flyweight champion.. Shajidul Haque!

MG: A very experienced addition from across the pond!

BS: This is a big next step for Haque. He is someone who has been ready for a shot for a while now.

RB: Haque is a talent. He may lack finishing ability but he is someone who loves to fight in deep waters.

DJ: I truly feel this is one to watch. Haque has a lot of talent and can dictate fights from the off.

-------------------------------------------------- Entrant 20 --------------------------------------------------

AW: Our 20th entrant fights out of Canada and is a veteran of both Rizin and the LFA... Tony Laramie!

MG: A very aggressive fighter. Laramie is a knockout artist.

RB: He pushes the action immediately. Laramie is hyper aggressive.

BS: A true pressure based finisher. He can overwhelm people.

DJ: For entertainment value alone. Laramie is can't miss. But don't let the wild style fool you, he is a talented fighter.

-------------------------------------------------- Entrant 21 --------------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant number 21 is fighting out of Kazakhstan. He is a former UFC veteran and the current reigning Oktagon Flyweight Champion... Zhalgas Zhumagulov

MG: A tough and gritty fighter. This man has tons of big fight experience against high level competition.

RB: Zhalgas is a pure nomad. He will fight anyone on any notice.

BS: He is durable as well. Just a tough and determined fighter.

DJ: He's very experienced and exceptionally gritty. This will not be an easy fight.

-------------------------------------------------- Entrant 22 --------------------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant is fighting out of the USA and he is a veteran of Fury. He is a former Fury Flyweight Champion.. Paris Moran.

MG: Moran is a developing prospect. He is a standout from a great camp for sure.

RB: This is the kind of fighter who can use a moment like this as a launching pad.

BS: Moran has a big chance here to change his career overnight. He has the tools to do so also.

DJ: He is Gracie trained and gets better with every fight. This young man has potential to upset the field.

-------------------------------------------------- Entrant 23 --------------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant 23 is also fighting out of the USA. He is an accomplished wrestler and the protege of Daniel Cormier.. Nick Piccininni.

MG: Piccininni will be looking to continue the wave of accomplished wrestlers in MMA.

RB: We've seen some skilled wrestlers dominate the field so far. Piccininni will look to continue this!

BS: He is a legit grappler. He can dictate a fight and where it takes place with ease.

DJ: He is a protege of Daniel Cormier. That should be warning enough of what this man is looking to accomplish.

-------------------------------------------------- Entrant 24 --------------------------------------------------

AW: We now get to the third quarter of this field and we once more return to Hawaii. This is for an undefeated standout who has competed in the LFA.. Christian Natividad!

MG: Man this field gains another elite prospect. Natividad has really grown and developed in the LFA.

BS: Christian improves with every fight. He is someone who is capable of shocking the field here.

RB: It's tough to say what his ceiling is in this field. As Christian is someone who constantly improves. So we'll have to see how he performs in such a field.

DJ: Natividad is all about adaptability. He can push the pace and take the fight anywhere.

MG: We are now at the three quarter mark and will be back soon for the final eight announcements.

GFL FLYWEIGHT TOURNAMENT PARTICIPANTS
1. Ali "Puncher" Bagautinov (21-7)
2. David "Undertaker" Dvorak (22-7)
3. Eric "Showtime" Shelton (21-9)
4. John "The Magician" Dodson (24-15)
5. Tyson Nam (23-15-1)
6. Phumi "Turno" Nkuta (11-0)
7. Ray "The Tazmexican Devil" Borg (16-5)
8. Paulino "El Cuate" Siller (17-3)
9. Dustin Ortiz (20-9)
10. Jawany Scott (8-2)
11. Jussier Formiga (24-8)
12. Askar Askarov (15-1-1)
13. Nkazimulo "King Shaka" Zulu (16-9-1)
14. Bilal Hasan (8-0)
15. John "Chicano" Moraga (19-7)
16. Nicolas Leblond (13-4)
17. Hiromasa Ougikubo (30-8-2)
18. Louis "Da Last Samurai" Smolka (17-9)
19. Shajidul "Superman" Haque (17-6)
20. Tony "The Wildman" Laramie (12-3)
21. Zhalgas "Zhako" Zhumagulov (19-9)
22. Paris Moran (13-3)
23. Nick Piccininni (8-2)
24. Christian "The Hawaiian Punch" Natividad (9-0)

 

[Shade]

GLOBAL FIGHT LEAGUE BRACKETOLOGY​

MG: Welcome back ladies and Gentleman for the final quarter of the GFL Flyweight Bracketology. Let's head back to Alex for the final batch.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 25 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Thank you Mike! Entrant 25 is fighting out of Uzbekistan. He is a 3 time kickboxing world champion and a former Ultimate Fighter competitor.. Furkatbek Yokubov!

MG: This is a highly dangerous and experienced striker entering the field.

BS: He's fought in some big stages as well. This is not a man who will fold under pressure.

RB: He is so fluid on the feet. Just a fast moving force of nature!

DJ: He's so powerful and physically strong. On top of this, his striking technique is something.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 26 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant 26 fights out of Brazil. A LFA veteran who is the current reigning Interim LFA Flyweight champion.. Marcos Degli!

MG: Now this is an interesting addition. Degli is dangerous!

BS: He is so unpredictable. This man can end a fight anywhere.

RB: Degli is someone who can really catch you off guard. He is in many ways the perfect blend of a Brazilian fighter sharp striking and dangerous submissions.

DJ: Plus he has big time championship experience. This man has fought and put away some really tough fighters to earn his title.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 27 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant number 27 is an ultimate fighter and contender series veteran. He is the current reigning LFA Flyweight champion Eduardo Henrique.

MG: Now this just got interesting. Degli and Henrique in the same field!

BS: That is definitely a fight for sure. Henrique is so high pressured man. He breaks people.

RB: He can grapple and he can strike. He is a well rounded competitor and definitely a favorite.

DJ: Probably one of the more technical and skilled fighters we have in the field so far. Henrique is someone to watch in this field.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 28 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant number 28 fights out of Russia. He is a UAE and Contender series veteran... Rashid Vagabov!

MG: Now this is a very interesting addition. He very much is a practitioner of the Dagestani wrestling style.

RB: He is a wild man. This man will fight at any weight class.

BS: A dangerous sambo fighter. He can dictate the fight like no other!

DJ: He's physically strong with high level grappling. Vagabov is dangerous! A nightmare match up for many in the field.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 29 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Our next entrant is fighting out of Kazakhstan. He is an ACA veteran and current Naiza Flyweight Champion.. Dias Yerengaipov.

MG: This maybe one of the most dangerous and competitive fields we have had yet in the GFL. Just killer after killer.

BS: The international flavor in this as well definitely is something to see!

RB: Just a punishing fighter. Heavy grappling and hands.

DJ: Dias is a dark horse. Just a strong, pressure based fighter who loves to drag opponents into deep waters.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 30 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Our 30th entrant in the GFL Flyweight tournament is fighting out of Mexico by way of Peru.. Luis Elias!

MG: I like this addition. He's a raw talent.

BS: He may not have the name value like some of the others but he is skilled enough to upset the field.

RB: He can grapple and he can strike. This guy knows how to put it together.

DJ: He knows how to steal a round and how to surprise you. Don't be surprised if this man upsets the field.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 31 ----------------------------------------------

AW: Entrant 31 is representing the USA and he is a team Alpha Male standout... Eimar Hernandez!

MG: This is a talented prospect. A protege of Urijah Faber himself.

RB: He has had a little time out but this is a big way to make a return.

BS: A solid striker but it's the grappling where he truly excels.

DJ: Plus with Urijah behind him, he truly has a coach able to help him make the game plan for success.

---------------------------------------------- ENTRANT 32 ----------------------------------------------

AW: We now come to the final entrant in the GFL Flyweight tournament. He is a UFC veteran and is the current BRAVE Flyweight champion.. Muhammad Mokaev!

MG: Mokaev! Now this changes everything!

BS: Hold up man! Hold up! You are telling me Mokaev is also in this tournament? He is a problem for everybody.

RB: He's so young. People forget how young he still is and that he has all the time in the world to get better.

DJ: His wrestling is elite. He scrambles well and he knows how to control people. If I am looking at the whole field.. This is a name I mark.

MG: Well with that we have now completed the announcements of the participants of the GFL Flyweight tournament. We will be back soon to announce the opening round matches!

GFL FLYWEIGHT TOURNAMENT PARTICIPANTS
1. Ali "Puncher" Bagautinov (21-7)
2. David "Undertaker" Dvorak (22-7)
3. Eric "Showtime" Shelton (21-9)
4. John "The Magician" Dodson (24-15)
5. Tyson Nam (23-15-1)
6. Phumi "Turno" Nkuta (11-0)
7. Ray "The Tazmexican Devil" Borg (16-5)
8. Paulino "El Cuate" Siller (17-3)
9. Dustin Ortiz (20-9)
10. Jawany Scott (8-2)
11. Jussier Formiga (24-8)
12. Askar Askarov (15-1-1)
13. Nkazimulo "King Shaka" Zulu (16-9-1)
14. Bilal Hasan (8-0)
15. John "Chicano" Moraga (19-7)
16. Nicolas Leblond (13-4)
17. Hiromasa Ougikubo (30-8-2)
18. Louis "Da Last Samurai" Smolka (17-9)
19. Shajidul "Superman" Haque (17-6)
20. Tony "The Wildman" Laramie (12-3)
21. Zhalgas "Zhako" Zhumagulov (19-9)
22. Paris Moran (13-3)
23. Nick Piccininni (8-2)
24. Christian "The Hawaiian Punch" Natividad (9-0)
25. Furkatbek "Iron Man" Yokubov (18-4)
26. Marcos "Tailandes" Degli (14-3)
27. Eduardo "Chapolin" Henrique (15-2)
28. Rashid "Rambo" Vagabov (15-2)
29. Dias "Son of the Steppes" Yerengaipov (18-3)
30. Luis "Aiapaec" Elias (10-1)
31. Eimar Hernandez (7-2)
32. Muhammad "The Punisher" Mokaev (15-0)

 

[Shade]

GLOBAL FIGHT LEAGUE FLYWEIGHT BRACKETOLOGY​

AW: It is now time for the final part of the GFL Flyweight Bracketology event. For this event we will be turning things over to our GFL Panel. As always this is comprised of UFC veterans Kenny Florian and Dan Hardy as well as former Strikeforce champion Josh Thompson. On top of this we have womens' MMA pioneer Julie Kedzie, MMA journalists Helen Yee and the Schmo as well as refereeing legend John McCarthy. So let's turn it over to the panel as we announce the groups for the GFL Flyweight tournament.

GROUP A
Askar Askarov vs. Nicolas Leblond
Ray Borg vs. Paris Moran

KF: Thank you for the introduction Alex. We are all very excited to be here for the GFL Flyweight tournament. With the field we have seen, this promises to be an energetic and exciting tournament. This is definitely on show with how we have started here. As we have one of the biggest names in this tournament Askar Askarov taking on Nicolas Leblond.

JM: Askarov is a difference maker. His wrestling alone makes him a massive threat.

DH: Leblond has shown himself in Cage Warriors to be a skilled grappler but this will definitely be the most dangerous grappler he has faced.

JK: This is definitely a group filled with talented grapplers as on the other side we have Ray Borg taking on Paris Moran.

TS: Borg is a dangerous submission grappler. His scrambles are a threat here.

HY: Moran is well rounded but like we said with Leblond. This is the most skilled grappler he has faced.

JT: This is a bracket all about pressure. Can these veteran grapplers make these rising prospects bend and buckle to their will?
GROUP B
Hiromasa Ougikubo vs. Shajidul Haque
Jussier Formiga vs. Eimar Hernandez

DH: We go from one group of grapplers to another fearsome bunch in Group B.

JT: Ougikubo is for my money one of the favorites in this tournament. But he is outsized here by a solid grappler in his own right Shajidul Haque.

JK: Haque will be a big spoiler if he manages to unseat Hiromasa.

TS: Hiromasa is so experienced. He's no stranger to tournament settings either.

HY: Then on the other side we have Team Alpha Male's Eimar Hernandez taking on Jussier Formiga.

JM: Having the team alpha male back ground means Eimar will have skill on the ground. But there are few who can match Formiga.

KF: While we know what Ougikubo and Formiga can do. We have to say this is a tremendous opportunity for Eimar and Haque to really upset the field.

GROUP C
Tyson Nam vs. Luis Elias
Bilal Hasan vs. Dustin Ortiz

KF: Now this a clash of veterans against rising prospects.

TS: Man, Tyson Nam is a vicious striker. Luis Elias has to mind his Ps and Qs here.

JK: Nam with his power is a game changer but he is a very passive striker and Elias must capitalize.

DH: Then on the other side we have veteran Dustin Ortiz take on highly regarded undefeated prospect Bilal Hasan.

JT: Ortiz is one of the toughest guys in this entire bracket. This is a trial by fire for Hasan.

JM: Ortiz's experience is a game changer but Hasan is such a talented prospect. We will see what Hasan's ceiling is here.

HY: This bracket has rookies being tested against veterans. It's definitely going to interesting to see what these prospects can do.

GROUP D
Eric Shelton vs. Louis Smolka
Dias Yerengaipov vs. Nkazimulu Zulu

DH: Now this is a fascinating bracket to say the least. Some very interesting match ups here.

JT: Shelton and Smolka really promises to be a wild fight.

KF: That fight is going to be chaos. Smolka in particular is so unpredictable.

JM: We then go from what promises to be chaos to a striker vs. grappler clash between Nkazimulu Zulu and Dias Yerengaipov.

HY: Zulu is a fascinating addition to this field. Such a lethal striker!

JK: But he'll have to be mindful of the grappling of Yerengaipov.

TS: We have seen striker vs grappler matches. They are fascinating chess matches.

GROUP E
Jawany Scott vs. Eduardo Henrique
Tony Laramie vs. Zhalgas Zhumagulov

TS: Now this is a bracket to be intrigued by. Laramie and Zhalgas is a wild one!

HY: Zhumagulov is a wild one. But that has been matched here as Laramie is just as chaotic.

DH: That fight is going to be chaos. Zhalgas can fight anywhere while Laramie is all aggression and pressure.

JM: While that promises to be a chaotic fight.. On the other side of this bracket we will see Jawany Scott take on Eduardo Henrique.

JT: Scott is a solid prospect. Good range and striking ability.

KF: But he is facing one of the tournament's big favorites in Eduardo Chapolin. Chapolin can take the fight anywhere.

JK: Chapolin is a top level fighter. He can out grapple, out strike and out wrestle anyone.

GROUP F
John Dodson vs. Paulino Siller
John Moraga vs. Christian Natividad

KF: Now this is a crazy bracket. We start out with John Dodson one of the biggest names in the field taking on scrappy Paulino Siller.

DH: Siller is tough as they come. But Dodson possess such power and speed. It makes him a deadly combination.

JT: Dodson also has tournament experience. He is a former ultimate fighter winner after all.

TS: Then on the other side of the field we have John Moraga fighting Christian Natividad.

JK: Moraga is a dangerous veteran. He can strike and he can grapple. He is smooth wherever the fight goes!

HY: Moraga is the ultimate spoiler and this is definitely a litmus test for the unbeaten Natividad.

JM: Christian is a tough, talented prospect. The question is can he rise to the occasion on a grand stage against someone like Moraga.

GROUP G
David Dvorak vs. Nick Picinnini
Furkatbek Yobukov vs. Marcos Degli

JM: I'm just going to star out by saying, Dvorak and Picinnini is a fascinating match up.

HY: That is an elite wrestler taking on a seasoned veteran and technical striker.

DH: Nick Picinnini when it comes to wrestling is a legimate threat in this tournament.

JK: This is a group as a whole which can really surprise people.

JT: Yobukov and Degli promises to be a downright vicious fight.

TS: Degli is a wild boy. He is dangerous where ever the fight takes itself.

KF: At the same time Yobukov is one of the most talented and dangerous strikers in the field!

GROUP H
Muhammad Mokaev vs. Ali Bagautinov
Phumi Nkuta vs. Rashid Vagabov

KF: What a final way to close the field. Beginning with tournament top seed Muhammad Mokaev taking on Ali Bagautinov.

DH: The world is focused on Mokaev. He has the style and skill to run the table.

HY: He is an elite grappler with skills which grow every time. But he has a steep task ahead of him in Ali.

JM: Ali has heavy hands and good grappling himself. He's a big spoiler potential for sure.

JT: Then on the other side of the bracket Rashid Vagabov takes on undefeated Phumi Nkuta.

TS: Nkuta and Vagabov is such an interesting fight. Both of these guys are definite dark horses in this field.

JK: That is such a chess match of a fight. The decisive factor in that fight will be can Nkuta stop the takedown.

KF: So now we have the field lined out. Let's take a look at the full cards.

GFL 15 - SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA

Prelims
Alisson Murilo (13-3) vs. Yoni Sherbatov (8-2-1)
Yutaro Muramoto (14-9-2) vs. Ulka Sasaki (24-10)
Muhidin Abubakar (12-1) vs. Arshiyan Memon (7-0)
Zach Makovsky (21-12) vs. Matheus Nicolau (19-5-1)
Otgonbaatar Boldbaatar (6-0) vs. Hector Sandoval (15-4)
Jack Duffy (7-1) vs. Ryan Benoit (10-8)
CJ Vergara (12-7-1) vs. Kairat Akhmetov (31-2)
Kurban Gadzhiev (20-5) vs. Willie Gates (12-13)
Luthando Biko (13-5) vs. Francisco Figueiredo (13-6-1)
Omar Al Hussaini (6-1-1) vs. Jeff Molina (11-2)
TJ Laramie (16-5) vs. Tumelo Manyamala (8-1)
Seiichiro Ito (18-4) vs. Wilson Reis (28-15)

Main Card
Furkatbek Yobukov (18-4) vs. Marcos Degli (14-3)
Rashid Vagabov (15-2) vs. Phumi Nkuta (11-0)
Tony Laramie (12-3) vs. Zhalgas Zhumagulov (19-9)
Dias Yerengaipov (18-3) vs. Nkazimulu Zulu (16-9-1)
Bilal Hasan (8-0) vs. Dustin Ortiz (20-9)
John Dodson (24-15) vs. Paulino Siller (17-3)
Ray Borg (16-5) vs. Paris Moran (13-3)
Hiromasa Ougikubo (30-8-2) vs. Shajidul Haque (17-6)

GFL 16 - MANILLA, PHILLIPINES

Prelims
Jeremy de la Mata (10-0) vs. Victor Dias (13-4)
Chance Ikei (6-0) vs. Aaron Aby (18-11)
Daniel Barez (17-8) vs. Geje Eustaquio (14-9)
Aren Akopyan (20-3-1) vs. Jimmy Flick (17-9)
Velimurad Alkhasov (9-1) vs. Justin Scoggins (16-7)
Mark Climaco (11-2) vs. Terrence Mitchell (15-4)
Wagner Reis (9-4) vs. Tommy Morrisson (11-0)
Adriano Sousa (5-1) vs. Shunichi Shimizu (39-32-12)
Badmatsyren Dorzhiev (9-1) vs. Roybert Echeverria (10-3)

Main Card
Jawany Scott (8-2) vs. Eduardo Henrique (15-2)
John Moraga (19-7) vs. Christian Natividad (9-0)
David Dvorak (22-7) vs. Nick Picinnini (8-2)
Eric Shelton (21-9) vs. Louis Smolka (17-9)
Askar Askarov (15-1-1) vs. Nicolas Leblond (13-4)
Tyson Nam (23-15-1) vs. Luis Elias (10-1)
Eimar Hernandez (7-2) vs. Jussier Formiga (24-8)
Muhammad Mokaev (15-0) vs. Ali Bagautinov (21-7)

 

[Shade]

GFL 15
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA​

We begin with an opening cinematic focusing on a Neon lit Seoul skyline. Fast cuts between bustling city streets, temples, night markets and fans gathering outside the arena. Traditional Korean instrumentation blends into modern fight music. From here lights sweep across a packed crowd as the cage sits illuminated.

MG: Good evening everybody and welcome to GFL 15, where tonight the Global Fight League Flyweight Tournament officially begins. In order to begin this tournament, we have headed to one of the most dynamic cities in the world.... Seoul, South Korea!
BS: Goldie, flyweights in Seoul? This is a perfect combo. You’re talking about one of the fastest divisions in MMA in a city that appreciates skill, discipline, and high-level martial arts.
RB: Flyweight fighting exists in tiny margins and nowhere does that feel more appropriate than here in Seoul. A city built on precision, on speed and on relentless forward momentum.
MG: Tonight prospects, veterans, former contenders and international talent all step into the cage chasing the same goal... Advancing in the GFL Flyweight Tournament.

BS: Make no mistake... this division is stacked. You’ve got former UFC names, You’ve got killers from Asia and Top international talent. Somebody’s stock is going WAY up tonight

RB: In tournaments identity is forged through adversity. You adapt, You survive and you evolve.

MG: Before we get there however we have our prelims. Which will feature veterans like Zach Makovsky, Wilson Reis, and Ulka Sasaki looking to hold off the next generation. So on behalf of Brendan Schaub and Robin Black, I'm Mike Goldberg and the GFL 15 prelims are underway.

Alisson Murilo (13-3) vs. Yoni Sherbatov (8-2-1)
Opening the show we'd see former Ultimate fighter contestant Yoni Sherbatov look to make a successful MMA return as he took on LFA standout Alisson Murilo. Unfortunately for Sherbatov we'd see him quickly be out matched on the feet by the Chute Box representative who very much picked Yoni apart before landing a series of punishing leg kicks which put Yoni on the canvas to close the round for a late TKO finish.
Result: Alisson Murilo (14-3) defeated Yoni Sherbatov (8-3-1) by TKO in the 1st round (4:59)

Yutaro Muramoto (14-9-2) vs. Ulka Sasaki (24-10)
The second bout of the night would be a clash of countrymen as Deep champion Yutaro Muramoto took on grappling ace and UFC veteran Ulka Sasaki. This fight would start on the feet and be quite even until Muramoto made the questionable decision to shoot for a takedown. The second he did, Sasaki would pull guard and waste little time in securing an armbar for the submission finish in the first round.
Result: Ulka Sasaki (25-10) defeated Yutaro Muramoto (14-10-2) by submission (armbar) in the 1st round (3:34)

Muhidin Abubakar (12-1) vs. Arshiyan Memon (7-0)
Our next clash would see UAE Flyweight Champion Muhidin Abubakar take on undefeated standout Arshiyan Memon. Ahead of the bout Muhidin had made it clear of his displeasure at being excluded from the tournament. In response to this he'd enter in a blistering performance as he dropped Memon early with an overhand and not long after would connect with a vicious headkick for a nasty early knockout.
Result: Muhidin Abubakar (13-1) defeated Arshiyan Memon (7-1) by 1st round knockout (0:57)

Zach Makovsky (21-12) vs. Matheus Nicolau (19-5-1)
Two UFC veterans would do battle in the next bout of the night as Zack Makovsky took on Matheus Nicolau. In what was very much a striker vs. grappler bout we would see Zack Makovsky relentlessly look to pursue a takedown on Matheus Nicolau. Nicolau would very much be able to sprawl and defend this however and while on the feet he would be able to rock and drop Makovsky on several occasions on his way to a unanimous decision.
Result: Matheus Nicolau (20-5-1) defeated Zach Makovsky (21-13) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Otgonbaatar Boldbaatar (6-0) vs. Hector Sandoval (15-4)
UFC veteran Hector Sandoval would be in action in the next bout of the night as he took on undefeated standout Otgonbaatar Boldbaatar. This contest would be a very dominant showcase for the undefeated prospect who managed to back Sandoval up against the cage and use this to take his opponent down. From here Boldbaatar would take Sandoval's back and secure a neck crank for the submission victory.
Result: Otgonbaatar Boldbaatar (7-0) defeated Hector Sandoval (15-5) by submission (neck crank) in the 1st round (1:48)

Jack Duffy (7-1) vs. Ryan Benoit (10-8)
The next bout of the evening would see Team Alpha Male standout Jack Duffy take on UFC veteran Ryan Benoit. While he may have been facing the most experienced opponent of his career, this fight would be a showcase performance for Duffy. As not only did he manage to outland Benoit on the feet but he would also manage to outwrestle Benoit for what would be a one sided decision victory for the prospect.
Result: Jack Duffy (8-1) defeated Ryan Benoit (10-9) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

CJ Vergara (12-7-1) vs. Kairat Akhmetov (31-2)
UFC veteran CJ Vergara would be in action in the next bout of the night as he took on former ONE Champion Kairat Akhmetov. Despite Vergara seemingly having his game plan scouted we would see Kairat waste little time in securing a takedown from the clinch. From here we'd see Kairat waste little time in heading to side control before he'd lock in an arm triangle choke for the submission.
Result: Kairat Akhmetov (32-2) defeated CJ Vergara (12-8-1) by submission (arm triangle) in the 1st round (2:09)
Kurban Gadzhiev (20-5) vs. Willie Gates (12-13)
Off the back of several quick finishes in the preliminary card we'd see UFC veteran Willie Gates take on former ACA champion Kurban Gadzhiev. This bout would be a dominant showing for Kurban who very much utilized a ground heavy approach by taking Gates down repeatedly and controlling him from top position on his way to a unanimous decision.
Result: Kurban Gadzhiev (21-5) defeated Willie Gates (12-14) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Luthando Biko (13-5) vs. Francisco Figueiredo (13-6-1)
The next bout of the night would be a clash of two veterans as former UFC veteran Francisco Figueiredo took on EFC and UAE veteran Luthando Biko. This bout would be a back and forth fight on the feet with both men having their moments while also opting to attempt a takedown at points. After three rounds of back and forth action, the judges would award a split decision verdict to Luthando Biko.
Result: Luthando Biko (13-5) defeated Francisco Figueiredo (13-7-1) by split decision (29-28 x2 and 28-29)

Omar Al Hussaini (6-1-1) vs. Jeff Molina (11-2)
Highly regarded prospect Omar Al Husaini would be in action in the next bout as he took on UFC veteran Jeff Molina. Returning off a suspension, Molina did appear to have some signs of ring rust and this allowed Al Hussaini to be aggressive in the striking for the better part of the fight. This would be until Molina finally connected with a big uppercut in the third and landed several follow ups for a knockout.
Result: Jeff Molina (12-2) defeated Omar Al Hussaini (6-2-1) by knockout in the 3rd round (2:36)

TJ Laramie (16-5) vs. Tumelo Manyamala (8-1)
The next bout of the night would be a clash between two highly regarded prospects as TJ Laramie took on Tumelo Manyamala. This would be a back and forth clash in which both men had their moments. We would see Laramie would be the more versatile in his striking while Manyamala was the heavy handed and it was his damaging strikes which made the bigger impression on the judges for a split decision.
Result: Tumelo Manyamala (9-1) defeated Tony Laramie (16-6) by split decision (29-28, 28-29 and 30-27)

Seiichiro Ito (18-4) vs. Wilson Reis (28-15)
The final bout on the prelims would see UFC veteran Wilson Reis take on Pancrase champion Seiichiro Ito. This would be a fight which was purely contested on the floor. This would be a very back and forth grappling match which saw both men attempt to trap the others in submissions. Following three rounds of grappling the judges would award this fight to Seiichiro Ito in a split decision verdict.
Result: Seiichiro Ito (19-4) defeated Wilson Reis (28-16) by split decision (29-28, 28-29 and 30-27)

With that our opening package rolls begins to roll. We see sweeping nighttime shots of Seoul including the Han River, Namsan Tower glowing over the skyline and neon streets alive with energy. With that the music intensifies. As inside the arena, lights pulse across a packed Korean crowd while pyro erupts. Stepping forward in the cage is Dasha Kuret.
DK: SEOUL... ARE YOU READY?
Huge crowd roar.
DK: Good evening ladies and gentlemen and welcome to GFL 15, LIVE from beautiful Seoul, South Korea! Tonight, the Flyweight Tournament begins as eight crucial main card matchups stand between these fighters and advancement in the bracket! All chasing the same destination, the GFL Flyweight championship! so please welcome Mike Goldberg, Brendan Schaub and Robin Black!
MG: Thank you Dasha and what an atmosphere there is here tonight! Seoul has delivered energy all evening long and now, it is time for the main card of GFL 15.
BS: Goldie, this division’s ridiculous but this main card is something you can't miss. These guys can push a pace for fifteen minutes that most divisions can’t even dream of!
RB: This division lives inside motion! and in a tournament setting that pressure becomes exponential.

MG: Coming up tonight we have a huge veteran showdown as John Dodson returns to tournament action against Paulino Siller. We’ll also see former UFC title challenger Ray Borg take on Paris Moran and in our main event.. Japanese veteran Hiromasa Ougikubo meets dangerous challenger Shajidul Haque. But first We begin tonight’s main card with a crucial flyweight tournament matchup as Furkatbek Yokubov takes on Marcos Degli! For Brendan Schaub and Robin Black, I'm Mike Goldberg and let's let the GFL Flyweight tournament begin!

Furkatbek Yobukov (18-4) vs. Marcos Degli (14-3)
We would open the main card portion of the show with our first Flyweight tournament match. Here we would see a battle between two strikes as Furkatbek Yobukov took on Marcos Degli. While both men may have been strikers their styles couldn't be more different as Yobukov was the more technical and precise while Degli was the forward pressure, wildman. After three rounds of close action it would be Degli who was awarded the decision.
Result: Marcos Degli (15-3) defeated Furkatbek Yobukov (18-5) by unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

Rashid Vagabov (15-2) vs. Phumi Nkuta (11-0)
Undefeated standout Phumi Nkuta would take on grappling specialist Rashid Vagabov in the next bout of the night. While in the early going of this bout we'd see Nkuta display his game plan and look to move in and out, it would not take long for Vagabov to establish his grappling advantage. In what was a display of the dagestan wrestling style, Vagabov took Nkuta down at will and controlled him for the remainder of the fight.
Result: Rashid Vagabov (16-2) defeated Phumi Nkuta (11-1) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Tony Laramie (12-3) vs. Zhalgas Zhumagulov (19-9)
Highly regarded prospect Tony Laramie and UFC veteran Zhalgas Zhumagulov did battle in the next bout of the night. Unlike the previous bout this would be a fun, entertaining brawl with both men willing and encouraging a brawl. With both men rocked on occasion, it seemed that this was truly anyone's fight. Near the end of the third Zhalgas would drop Laramie once more and it was this which secured him the decision.
Result: Zhalgas Zhumagulov (20-9) defeated Tony Laramie (12-4) by split decision (29-28, 28-29 and 30-27)

Dias Yerengaipov (18-3) vs. Nkazimulu Zulu (16-9-1)
Off the back of an exciting back and forth battle, the next fight of the night would unfortunately be totally different as Dias Yerengaipov showed little interest in standing with Nkazimulu Zulu. While on the feet we'd see flashes of Zulu's skill and technique, this fight would be largely dominated by Dias in what was a smothering if unspectacular performance.
Result: Dias Yerengaipov (19-3) defeated Nkazimulu Zulu (16-10-1) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Bilal Hasan (8-0) vs. Dustin Ortiz (20-9)
UFC veteran Dustin Ortiz would take on undefeated standout Bilal Hasan in the next bout of the night. While many expected this to be a tough test for Hasan instead what we saw was a dominant showing for the undefeated Hasan. As while the previous bouts on the main card may have gone to a decision, this bout would end shockingly quickly as Hasan connected with a big series of punches early to drop and finish Ortiz for a TKO.
Result: Bilal Hasan (9-0) defeated Dustin Ortiz (20-10) by TKO in the 1st round (0:56)

John Dodson (24-15) vs. Paulino Siller (17-3)
The next bout of the night would see John Dodson take on Spain's Paulino Siller. This would be a dominant one sided showing for Dodson who managed to pick off and outland Siller for the majority of the fight. Just as it looked like Dodson was going to cruise to a decision victory, in the third he would land a series of big punches to knock Siller out.
Result: John Dodson (25-15) defeated Paulino Siller (17-4) by knockout in the 3rd round (1:46)

Ray Borg (16-5) vs. Paris Moran (13-3)
The co-main event of the night would see another former UFC title contender Ray Borg take on rising prospect Paris Moran. This would be a fight of two stories as on the feet Paris Moran had a clear edge. But through the fight he would be taken down and controlled by Ray Borg throughout the fight. Despite this Borg was not able to dole out much damage but he would be able to cruise to a decision victory.
Result: Ray Borg (17-5) defeated Paris Moran (13-4) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Hiromasa Ougikubo (30-8-2) vs. Shajidul Haque (17-6)
The final bout of the night would see a clash of champions as former Rizin champion Hiromasa Ougikubo took on former Cage Warriors champion Shajidul Haque. This bout would be a dominant showing for Ougikubo who was not only able to out muscle Haque but also very much pick him apart on the feet. Following three dominant rounds of action, Ougikubo would be awarded a unanimous decision victory.
Result: Hiromasa Ougikubo (31-8-2) defeated Shajidul Haque (17-7) by unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

MG: What a night of fights we've had tonight. The flyweight title tournament has gotten off to a great start.

BS: We have seen legends rise and prospects announce themselves tonight.

RB: I have faith this tournament is only going to get better next time around.

MG: This is all we have time for tonight but we will be back soon for the next part of the flyweight tournament.