Post by The Sandmen on Jul 20, 2016 18:48:49 GMT -5
Paige VanZant raises her fists in her corner. She seems confident.
Carla Esparza raises her fists in her corner. She seems confident.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
It's hard to say who will be winning this fight. The specialized media doesn't have a favourite either.
The referee of the bout is John McCarthy.
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Round 1
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The fight gets underway.
Esparza is holding Paige VanZant's right leg... She's trying to take her down.
Paige VanZant loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 0:25 in the 1 round
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to trap Carla Esparza in her guard.
Paige VanZant manages to switch to full guard.
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
Carla Esparza pushes Paige VanZant against the fence and then tries to improve her position.
Esparza jumps and tries to free her leg! VanZant doesn't allow this but Carla Esparza is able to get half guard here.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to move to full guard
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant tries to close the guard.
VanZant put Carla Esparza in closed guard.
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza positions herself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
One, two, three! VanZant's being punished here!
VanZant's Right eye is bruised after the punishement she's received!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza is in closed guard... VanZant tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! She is now in full mount over Carla Esparza!
The clock says 1:30 in the 1 round
Paige VanZant is in full mount over Carla Esparza
VanZant goes for an armbar!
Carla Esparza breaks the lock and pushes away Paige VanZant, who rolls over her back and gets to standing position.
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in The Covered Hall (Cairo, Egypt) are cheering for the fighters.
Carla Esparza and VanZant engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch.
VanZant shows no signs of slowing down. She's in great shape.
VanZant fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Carla Esparza didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Esparza tries to close her guard around VanZant
She is not able to do it
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
VanZant moves on the ground
VanZant cannot take advantage in the ground
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Esparza measures the resilience of VanZant's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in VanZant's side.
The clock says 2:30 in the 1 round
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Carla Esparza launches a few punches to VanZant's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because VanZant tries to cover her face,
VanZant's Left cheek is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Paige VanZant's Left cheek
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant pushes Carla Esparza against the fence and then tries to improve her position.
Carla Esparza struggles not allowing Paige VanZant improve her position.
The clock says 2:50 in the 1 round
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant is cooling the fight on the ground
The clock says 3:00 in the 1 round
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Esparza tries to close her guard around VanZant
She succeeds!
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Esparza tries to move on the ground and shows Paige VanZant a crack in her guard which she uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Esparza's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks her head against the mat! John McCarthy knows she may be calling off the fight soon!
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
VanZant tries to escape from the closed guard
VanZant succeeds and she's now in open guard... she takes a second to breathe
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Esparza tries to close her guard around VanZant
She is not able to do it
The clock says 3:45 in the 1 round
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
VanZant moves on the ground
VanZant cannot take advantage in the ground
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Stand up! This is what VanZant's cornermen are shouting. Carla Esparza is a submission master and she can finish the fight if you mess with her on the ground.
Esparza tries to close her guard around VanZant
She succeeds!
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Not a desiderable position that VanZant is in now. Carla Esparza is well knowed for her strong and relentless GnP.
VanZant is in closed guard... Esparza tries to roll on the ground!
Paige VanZant uses her leg to keep her position on the ground
Carla Esparza gets sloppy and Paige VanZant tries to take advantage...
Paige VanZant tries to open Esparza's guard...
Esparza breaks the lock and covers herself from VanZant's punches
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant looks to posture up and open Carla Esparza's guard...
Carla Esparza has a solid guard and keeps her ankles locked.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Esparza measures the resilience of VanZant's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in VanZant's side.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Esparza works on the ground with her fingers over VanZant's face
VanZant shakes her head and continues fighting on the ground.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
VanZant tries to improve her position on the ground as she sits on her knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Esparza leans and gets Paige VanZant's arms as she brings her to the ground again.
Poorly executed technique. Carla Esparza looks to counter!
Carla Esparza gets an arm and tries to apply an armbar. VanZant spins out, but Carla Esparza was ready for that and quickly switches to a triangle choke!
VanZant is too good and managed to back out of danger.
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in The Covered Hall (Cairo, Egypt) are cheering for the fighters.
John McCarthy separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
That was an even round for the most part.
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Round 2
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A punch from Paige VanZant
whizzes past Esparza.
Esparza is trying to counter now!
Carla Esparza attempts a sweep single...
Carla Esparza catches Paige VanZant's far ankle and trips her to the mat! Slick takedown by Esparza.
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Carla Esparza looks to posture up and open Paige VanZant's guard...
Carla Esparza forces Paige VanZant to open her guard.
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to close her guard around Esparza
She is not able to do it
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to close her guard around Esparza
She succeeds!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza is in closed guard... VanZant tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! She is now in full mount over Carla Esparza!
Paige VanZant is in full mount over Carla Esparza
Paige VanZant takes a deep breath as she passes her arm over Carla Esparza shoulder and pushes her left arm againts the mat!
Carla Esparza breaks that americana attempt!
Esparza is trying to counter now!
Esparza measures the resilience of VanZant's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in VanZant's side.
Paige VanZant is in full mount over Carla Esparza
VanZant fakes a few punches and after a brief struggle she catches Carla Esparza's arm and tries an armbar!
Esparza holds her own hand and with pure strength she breaks Esparza's lock. She rolls over herself and launches over Paige VanZant.
The clock says 1:30 in the 2 round
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Carla Esparza aggressively and repeatedly punches VanZant.
She needs to do something soon or the referee will stop the fight!
VanZant has a small cut in her Left eye
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Carla Esparza looks to mount Paige VanZant...
Paige VanZant takes advantage of her opponent's over commitment and traps her in full guard.
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet
She moves fast and now she is standing
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
VanZant fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Carla Esparza didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
The clock says 2:15 in the 2 round
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant tries to pass to half guard...
Carla Esparza's closes her guard to prevent the pass.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Esparza tries to move on the ground and shows Paige VanZant a crack in her guard which she uses for a big elbow!
Esparza uses her forearms to block the impact!
Poorly executed technique. Carla Esparza looks to counter!
Esparza throws her legs up in a triangle attempt!
Paige VanZant realizes the danger and stands up to avoid the attack.
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Carla Esparza leans forwards and tries to grapple with VanZant
Esparza shows her clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
The clock says 2:40 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
Multiple well placed knees from VanZant!
Nice hits to Esparza's ribs! Brilliant performance from Paige VanZant
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
VanZant tries to take Carla Esparza down... Esparza stumbles backwards and Paige VanZant launches a few punches...
Carla Esparza dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
Esparza is holding Paige VanZant's right leg... She's trying to take her down.
Paige VanZant loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 3:15 in the 2 round
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
VanZant tries to show some ground skills
Paige VanZant put Esparza in half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Carla Esparza wants to finish her opponent on the ground
Esparza drills Paige VanZant's face with a huge right hand! What an impact!
VanZant's Nose is bruised after the punishement she's received!
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to move to full guard
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to move to full guard
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant tries to close the guard.
Nothing from this effort.
Esparza tries to get some advantage after her opponent miss move...
Carla Esparza tries to open VanZant's guard...
Great bombs from the top by Carla Esparza. VanZant is unable to cover herself now!
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to move to full guard
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to move to full guard
Paige VanZant manages to switch to full guard.
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to close her guard around Esparza
She succeeds!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Carla Esparza throws down elbows...
She's tearing up VanZant's face with those brutal elbows! VanZant needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to stand up!
Esparza doesn't allow her!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to stand up!
Esparza doesn't allow her!
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in The Covered Hall (Cairo, Egypt) are cheering for the fighters.
Esparza tries some clinching in order to control the fight...
Well done. Esparza is clinching with VanZant.
John McCarthy separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
Close round. It could go to either fighter.
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Round 3
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VanZant is swinging for the fences!
A hit that almost breaks Esparza's jaw!
Carla Esparza tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
VanZant is unable to remain on her feet and falls to the ground
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to close her guard around Esparza
She is not able to do it
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to close her guard around Esparza
She succeeds!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant launches a few punches to Esparza's cheek from the guard.
Carla Esparza uses her head to cover the punches and presses her skull forward.
Poorly executed technique. Carla Esparza looks to counter!
Esparza struggles on the ground and tries to break Paige VanZant's guard...
VanZant doesn't want to free her opponent and Esparza continues in closed guard
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza is in closed guard... VanZant tries to roll on the ground!
Carla Esparza uses her leg to keep her position on the ground
VanZant clumsily fails here and it's time for Carla Esparza to fight back!
Esparza fires a barrage of punches at VanZant's head!
This is bad! Esparza is just pounding on Paige VanZant's head like she's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet
She moves fast and now she is standing
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
VanZant wants to take the fight to her advantage and tries to clinch.
VanZant moves forward and holds Esparza
The clock says 1:25 in the 3 round
The fighters are clinching.
VanZant grab one of Carla Esparza's arm and tries a Hip Throw
Carla Esparza landed hard on her back
The clock says 1:35 in the 3 round
VanZant is standing while Esparza is on the ground on her back
Esparza tries to hit Paige VanZant with a kick to her knee from the ground.
Nice kick. VanZant steps backwards trying to find a way to use her advantage now.
VanZant is standing while Esparza is on the ground on her back
Esparza tries to hit Paige VanZant with a kick to her knee from the ground.
Nice kick. VanZant steps backwards trying to find a way to use her advantage now.
VanZant is standing while Esparza is on the ground on her back
Esparza tries to hit Paige VanZant with a kick to her knee from the ground.
VanZant dodges that
VanZant is standing while Esparza is on the ground on her back
Esparza tries to hit Paige VanZant with a kick to her knee from the ground.
Nice kick. VanZant steps backwards trying to find a way to use her advantage now.
VanZant is standing while Esparza is on the ground on her back
Carla Esparza launches an up-kick intended for Paige VanZant's head...
It lands flush with Paige VanZant's head snapping it backwards due to the impact!
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Carla Esparza. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Back to the beginning! Carla Esparza is standing now.
Paige VanZant shoots for a double leg takedown!
She hits it! Carla Esparza is taken off her feet, but she manages to pull VanZant into her guard.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant tries to pass Carla Esparza's guard...
Paige VanZant manages to get her leg free and moves to half guard.
Paige VanZant is in half guard over Esparza
Carla Esparza attempts to move to full guard
Carla Esparza manages to switch to full guard.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant looks to posture up and open Carla Esparza's guard...
Carla Esparza has a solid guard and keeps her ankles locked.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant tries to pass Carla Esparza's guard...
Paige VanZant passes momentarily but Carla Esparza regains full guard.
The clock says 3:15 in the 3 round
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant looks to posture up and open Carla Esparza's guard...
Carla Esparza has a solid guard and keeps her ankles locked.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
VanZant is in closed guard... Esparza tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! She is now in full mount over Paige VanZant!
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant tries to roll to her side and trap Carla Esparza in her guard...
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant tries to roll to her side and trap Carla Esparza in her guard...
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Esparza delivers a few accurate elbows!
VanZant is being hit hard and trys to escape! She has to give her back!
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant
VanZant tries to move on the ground and shows Carla Esparza a crack in her guard which she uses for a big elbow!
Bang! VanZant's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks her head against the mat! John McCarthy knows she may be calling off the fight soon!
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant
VanZant tries to stand up!
she is now on her feet
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in The Covered Hall (Cairo, Egypt) are cheering for the fighters.
Carla Esparza attempts a sweep single...
Carla Esparza catches Paige VanZant's far ankle and trips her to the mat! Slick takedown by Esparza.
The clock says 4:50 in the 3 round
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
VanZant measures the resilience of Esparza's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Esparza blocks the hits as she works on the ground.
Esparza is trying to counter now!
Esparza gets a good position on the ground. ..
and what an incredible flurry! She's just wailing away at Paige VanZant! The referee is saying she's going to stop it if Paige VanZant doesn't defend herself!
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
I can't give the advantage to either fighter in that round.
The cutman is working on VanZant's face.
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Round 4
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Paige VanZant tries to bring the fight to the ground
Esparza goes down.
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
VanZant tries to jump to side mount.
Carla Esparza jumps and show some wrestling skills as she positions herself for continuing the fight in side control.
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza is in closed guard... VanZant tries to roll on the ground!
Carla Esparza uses her leg to keep her position on the ground
VanZant clumsily fails here and it's time for Carla Esparza to fight back!
Esparza throws a few hammer fists to the face of Paige VanZant
Solid shots!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza is in closed guard... VanZant tries to roll on the ground!
Carla Esparza uses her leg to keep her position on the ground
The clock says 0:50 in the 4 round
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Carla Esparza is looking to pass Paige VanZant's guard...
Carla Esparza gets her hips free and moves to half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Esparza is one of those men capable of pounding you into oblivion!
Carla Esparza tries to free her leg
Carla Esparza uses some of her skill by jumping out of VanZant's guard. She moves quickly to side mount!
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Carla Esparza throws down elbows...
She's tearing up VanZant's face with those brutal elbows! VanZant needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
VanZant's Left cheek is bruised after the punishement she's received!
VanZant has a small cut in her Left cheek
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet
She can't do it because of Esparza's moves.
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
You can see VanZant's blood making stains in the mat.
Esparza tries to move to full mount!
Nice move. She is in full mount now.
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
VanZant tries to stand up!
Esparza doesn't allow her!
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
The clock says 2:00 in the 4 round
Paige VanZant fakes a move and launches a liver kick!
That almost wrenches Carla Esparza! I'm sure that her liver will be sore tomorrow.
Hard blow to Esparza's mid-section, she seems hurt
Paige VanZant continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting her vision.
Esparza launches a kick
VanZant checks it and keeps distance.
Carla Esparza attempts a sweep single...
Carla Esparza catches Paige VanZant's far ankle and trips her to the mat! Slick takedown by Esparza.
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
VanZant cornermen are yelling for her man to escape from the ground as Esparza can finish a fight on the ground with some good pounding if you give her the chance.
VanZant doesn't stop bleeding.
Esparza tries to escape from closed guard...
Esparza struggles to liberate her leg and jumps to half guard!
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Esparza tries to get a side mount...
She frees her leg and is now controlling VanZant from the side mount!
The clock says 2:45 in the 4 round
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to trap Carla Esparza in her guard.
Carla Esparza keeps control and remains in side mount.
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Carla Esparza looks to mount Paige VanZant...
Carla Esparza slides her knee across and gets to mount.
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
You can see VanZant's blood making stains in the mat.
Paige VanZant tries to roll on the ground...
Esparza knows how to keep her advantage on the ground.
Paige VanZant gets sloppy and Carla Esparza tries to take advantage...
Carla Esparza wants to finish her opponent on the ground
Esparza drills Paige VanZant's face with a huge right hand! What an impact!
VanZant's Nose is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Paige VanZant's Nose
That punishment by Carla Esparza has left VanZant staggered! Carla Esparza should try push forward now and finish this!
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting her vision.
VanZant tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Carla Esparza doesn't want to lose her adventageous position and she struggles to mantain the full mount.
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet
She can't do it because of Esparza's moves.
The clock says 3:35 in the 4 round
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant tries to roll to her side and get to half guard...
Carla Esparza rolls Paige VanZant to her stomach and takes her back!
The clock says 3:45 in the 4 round
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant
Paige VanZant continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting her vision.
Esparza tries to open up Paige VanZant's defense faking a few punches.
She is aggressively and repeatedly punching VanZant in the side of the head
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant
Paige VanZant is taking out her mouthpiece to breathe...
VanZant tries to stand up!
Esparza doesn't allow her!
The clock says 4:05 in the 4 round
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant
You can see VanZant's blood making stains in the mat.
Esparza delivers a few accurate elbows!
VanZant is being hit hard and trys to escape! She has to give her back!
The clock says 4:15 in the 4 round
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant with one hook in
VanZant is trying to escape from the rear mount.
Esparza tries to use some of her tricky moves but Esparza's is smart enough to counter her.
Paige VanZant gets sloppy and Carla Esparza tries to take advantage...
Esparza leans back...
She clobbers Paige VanZant's face with a huge punch! Ouch!
VanZant seems a bit groggy... her movements are not very coordinated now.
The clock says 4:25 in the 4 round
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant with one hook in
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Carla Esparza can end the fight with her ground and pound.
You can see VanZant's blood making stains in the mat.
Carla Esparza Sees her opportunity to finish this fight on the ground and swarms all over Paige VanZant!
Paige VanZant is taking a ton of punishment! She needs to defend herself or the ref will stop the fight.
Carla Esparza turns out the lights for VanZant! What an astonishing KO by Esparza!
VanZant's Left cheek is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Paige VanZant's Left cheek
Winner is Carla Esparza by KO (GnP) at 4:35 Round 4
Statistics: Paige VanZant
Punches 4/6 (67%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 3/6 (50%)
Takedowns 4/4 (100%)
GnP strikes 1/13 (8%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 896 s
Statistics: Carla Esparza
Punches 3/4 (75%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)
Takedowns 6/6 (100%)
GnP strikes 60/72 (83%)
Submissions 2/2 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 2/2 (100%)
Time on the ground 944 s
Esparza’s coming out party. Next level, here she comes?
Carla Esparza raises her fists in her corner. She seems confident.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
It's hard to say who will be winning this fight. The specialized media doesn't have a favourite either.
The referee of the bout is John McCarthy.
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Round 1
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The fight gets underway.
Esparza is holding Paige VanZant's right leg... She's trying to take her down.
Paige VanZant loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 0:25 in the 1 round
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to trap Carla Esparza in her guard.
Paige VanZant manages to switch to full guard.
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
Carla Esparza pushes Paige VanZant against the fence and then tries to improve her position.
Esparza jumps and tries to free her leg! VanZant doesn't allow this but Carla Esparza is able to get half guard here.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to move to full guard
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant tries to close the guard.
VanZant put Carla Esparza in closed guard.
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza positions herself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
One, two, three! VanZant's being punished here!
VanZant's Right eye is bruised after the punishement she's received!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza is in closed guard... VanZant tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! She is now in full mount over Carla Esparza!
The clock says 1:30 in the 1 round
Paige VanZant is in full mount over Carla Esparza
VanZant goes for an armbar!
Carla Esparza breaks the lock and pushes away Paige VanZant, who rolls over her back and gets to standing position.
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in The Covered Hall (Cairo, Egypt) are cheering for the fighters.
Carla Esparza and VanZant engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch.
VanZant shows no signs of slowing down. She's in great shape.
VanZant fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Carla Esparza didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Esparza tries to close her guard around VanZant
She is not able to do it
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
VanZant moves on the ground
VanZant cannot take advantage in the ground
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Esparza measures the resilience of VanZant's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in VanZant's side.
The clock says 2:30 in the 1 round
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Carla Esparza launches a few punches to VanZant's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because VanZant tries to cover her face,
VanZant's Left cheek is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Paige VanZant's Left cheek
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant pushes Carla Esparza against the fence and then tries to improve her position.
Carla Esparza struggles not allowing Paige VanZant improve her position.
The clock says 2:50 in the 1 round
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant is cooling the fight on the ground
The clock says 3:00 in the 1 round
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Esparza tries to close her guard around VanZant
She succeeds!
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Esparza tries to move on the ground and shows Paige VanZant a crack in her guard which she uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Esparza's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks her head against the mat! John McCarthy knows she may be calling off the fight soon!
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
VanZant tries to escape from the closed guard
VanZant succeeds and she's now in open guard... she takes a second to breathe
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Esparza tries to close her guard around VanZant
She is not able to do it
The clock says 3:45 in the 1 round
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
VanZant moves on the ground
VanZant cannot take advantage in the ground
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Stand up! This is what VanZant's cornermen are shouting. Carla Esparza is a submission master and she can finish the fight if you mess with her on the ground.
Esparza tries to close her guard around VanZant
She succeeds!
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Not a desiderable position that VanZant is in now. Carla Esparza is well knowed for her strong and relentless GnP.
VanZant is in closed guard... Esparza tries to roll on the ground!
Paige VanZant uses her leg to keep her position on the ground
Carla Esparza gets sloppy and Paige VanZant tries to take advantage...
Paige VanZant tries to open Esparza's guard...
Esparza breaks the lock and covers herself from VanZant's punches
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant looks to posture up and open Carla Esparza's guard...
Carla Esparza has a solid guard and keeps her ankles locked.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Esparza measures the resilience of VanZant's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in VanZant's side.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Esparza works on the ground with her fingers over VanZant's face
VanZant shakes her head and continues fighting on the ground.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
VanZant tries to improve her position on the ground as she sits on her knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Esparza leans and gets Paige VanZant's arms as she brings her to the ground again.
Poorly executed technique. Carla Esparza looks to counter!
Carla Esparza gets an arm and tries to apply an armbar. VanZant spins out, but Carla Esparza was ready for that and quickly switches to a triangle choke!
VanZant is too good and managed to back out of danger.
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in The Covered Hall (Cairo, Egypt) are cheering for the fighters.
John McCarthy separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
That was an even round for the most part.
=========================================
Round 2
=========================================
A punch from Paige VanZant
whizzes past Esparza.
Esparza is trying to counter now!
Carla Esparza attempts a sweep single...
Carla Esparza catches Paige VanZant's far ankle and trips her to the mat! Slick takedown by Esparza.
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Carla Esparza looks to posture up and open Paige VanZant's guard...
Carla Esparza forces Paige VanZant to open her guard.
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to close her guard around Esparza
She is not able to do it
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to close her guard around Esparza
She succeeds!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza is in closed guard... VanZant tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! She is now in full mount over Carla Esparza!
Paige VanZant is in full mount over Carla Esparza
Paige VanZant takes a deep breath as she passes her arm over Carla Esparza shoulder and pushes her left arm againts the mat!
Carla Esparza breaks that americana attempt!
Esparza is trying to counter now!
Esparza measures the resilience of VanZant's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in VanZant's side.
Paige VanZant is in full mount over Carla Esparza
VanZant fakes a few punches and after a brief struggle she catches Carla Esparza's arm and tries an armbar!
Esparza holds her own hand and with pure strength she breaks Esparza's lock. She rolls over herself and launches over Paige VanZant.
The clock says 1:30 in the 2 round
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Carla Esparza aggressively and repeatedly punches VanZant.
She needs to do something soon or the referee will stop the fight!
VanZant has a small cut in her Left eye
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Carla Esparza looks to mount Paige VanZant...
Paige VanZant takes advantage of her opponent's over commitment and traps her in full guard.
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet
She moves fast and now she is standing
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
VanZant fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Carla Esparza didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
The clock says 2:15 in the 2 round
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant tries to pass to half guard...
Carla Esparza's closes her guard to prevent the pass.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Esparza tries to move on the ground and shows Paige VanZant a crack in her guard which she uses for a big elbow!
Esparza uses her forearms to block the impact!
Poorly executed technique. Carla Esparza looks to counter!
Esparza throws her legs up in a triangle attempt!
Paige VanZant realizes the danger and stands up to avoid the attack.
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Carla Esparza leans forwards and tries to grapple with VanZant
Esparza shows her clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
The clock says 2:40 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
Multiple well placed knees from VanZant!
Nice hits to Esparza's ribs! Brilliant performance from Paige VanZant
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
VanZant tries to take Carla Esparza down... Esparza stumbles backwards and Paige VanZant launches a few punches...
Carla Esparza dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
Esparza is holding Paige VanZant's right leg... She's trying to take her down.
Paige VanZant loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 3:15 in the 2 round
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
VanZant tries to show some ground skills
Paige VanZant put Esparza in half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Carla Esparza wants to finish her opponent on the ground
Esparza drills Paige VanZant's face with a huge right hand! What an impact!
VanZant's Nose is bruised after the punishement she's received!
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to move to full guard
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to move to full guard
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant tries to close the guard.
Nothing from this effort.
Esparza tries to get some advantage after her opponent miss move...
Carla Esparza tries to open VanZant's guard...
Great bombs from the top by Carla Esparza. VanZant is unable to cover herself now!
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to move to full guard
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to move to full guard
Paige VanZant manages to switch to full guard.
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to close her guard around Esparza
She succeeds!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Carla Esparza throws down elbows...
She's tearing up VanZant's face with those brutal elbows! VanZant needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to stand up!
Esparza doesn't allow her!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to stand up!
Esparza doesn't allow her!
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in The Covered Hall (Cairo, Egypt) are cheering for the fighters.
Esparza tries some clinching in order to control the fight...
Well done. Esparza is clinching with VanZant.
John McCarthy separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
Close round. It could go to either fighter.
=========================================
Round 3
=========================================
VanZant is swinging for the fences!
A hit that almost breaks Esparza's jaw!
Carla Esparza tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
VanZant is unable to remain on her feet and falls to the ground
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to close her guard around Esparza
She is not able to do it
Carla Esparza is in open guard over VanZant
VanZant tries to close her guard around Esparza
She succeeds!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant launches a few punches to Esparza's cheek from the guard.
Carla Esparza uses her head to cover the punches and presses her skull forward.
Poorly executed technique. Carla Esparza looks to counter!
Esparza struggles on the ground and tries to break Paige VanZant's guard...
VanZant doesn't want to free her opponent and Esparza continues in closed guard
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza is in closed guard... VanZant tries to roll on the ground!
Carla Esparza uses her leg to keep her position on the ground
VanZant clumsily fails here and it's time for Carla Esparza to fight back!
Esparza fires a barrage of punches at VanZant's head!
This is bad! Esparza is just pounding on Paige VanZant's head like she's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Paige VanZant doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet
She moves fast and now she is standing
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
VanZant wants to take the fight to her advantage and tries to clinch.
VanZant moves forward and holds Esparza
The clock says 1:25 in the 3 round
The fighters are clinching.
VanZant grab one of Carla Esparza's arm and tries a Hip Throw
Carla Esparza landed hard on her back
The clock says 1:35 in the 3 round
VanZant is standing while Esparza is on the ground on her back
Esparza tries to hit Paige VanZant with a kick to her knee from the ground.
Nice kick. VanZant steps backwards trying to find a way to use her advantage now.
VanZant is standing while Esparza is on the ground on her back
Esparza tries to hit Paige VanZant with a kick to her knee from the ground.
Nice kick. VanZant steps backwards trying to find a way to use her advantage now.
VanZant is standing while Esparza is on the ground on her back
Esparza tries to hit Paige VanZant with a kick to her knee from the ground.
VanZant dodges that
VanZant is standing while Esparza is on the ground on her back
Esparza tries to hit Paige VanZant with a kick to her knee from the ground.
Nice kick. VanZant steps backwards trying to find a way to use her advantage now.
VanZant is standing while Esparza is on the ground on her back
Carla Esparza launches an up-kick intended for Paige VanZant's head...
It lands flush with Paige VanZant's head snapping it backwards due to the impact!
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Carla Esparza. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Back to the beginning! Carla Esparza is standing now.
Paige VanZant shoots for a double leg takedown!
She hits it! Carla Esparza is taken off her feet, but she manages to pull VanZant into her guard.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant tries to pass Carla Esparza's guard...
Paige VanZant manages to get her leg free and moves to half guard.
Paige VanZant is in half guard over Esparza
Carla Esparza attempts to move to full guard
Carla Esparza manages to switch to full guard.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant looks to posture up and open Carla Esparza's guard...
Carla Esparza has a solid guard and keeps her ankles locked.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant tries to pass Carla Esparza's guard...
Paige VanZant passes momentarily but Carla Esparza regains full guard.
The clock says 3:15 in the 3 round
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
Paige VanZant looks to posture up and open Carla Esparza's guard...
Carla Esparza has a solid guard and keeps her ankles locked.
Paige VanZant is in closed guard over Esparza
VanZant is in closed guard... Esparza tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! She is now in full mount over Paige VanZant!
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant tries to roll to her side and trap Carla Esparza in her guard...
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant tries to roll to her side and trap Carla Esparza in her guard...
Carla Esparza keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Esparza delivers a few accurate elbows!
VanZant is being hit hard and trys to escape! She has to give her back!
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant
VanZant tries to move on the ground and shows Carla Esparza a crack in her guard which she uses for a big elbow!
Bang! VanZant's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks her head against the mat! John McCarthy knows she may be calling off the fight soon!
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant
VanZant tries to stand up!
she is now on her feet
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Paige VanZant. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in The Covered Hall (Cairo, Egypt) are cheering for the fighters.
Carla Esparza attempts a sweep single...
Carla Esparza catches Paige VanZant's far ankle and trips her to the mat! Slick takedown by Esparza.
The clock says 4:50 in the 3 round
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
VanZant measures the resilience of Esparza's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Esparza blocks the hits as she works on the ground.
Esparza is trying to counter now!
Esparza gets a good position on the ground. ..
and what an incredible flurry! She's just wailing away at Paige VanZant! The referee is saying she's going to stop it if Paige VanZant doesn't defend herself!
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
I can't give the advantage to either fighter in that round.
The cutman is working on VanZant's face.
=========================================
Round 4
=========================================
Paige VanZant tries to bring the fight to the ground
Esparza goes down.
Paige VanZant is in open guard over Esparza
VanZant tries to jump to side mount.
Carla Esparza jumps and show some wrestling skills as she positions herself for continuing the fight in side control.
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza is in closed guard... VanZant tries to roll on the ground!
Carla Esparza uses her leg to keep her position on the ground
VanZant clumsily fails here and it's time for Carla Esparza to fight back!
Esparza throws a few hammer fists to the face of Paige VanZant
Solid shots!
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Esparza is in closed guard... VanZant tries to roll on the ground!
Carla Esparza uses her leg to keep her position on the ground
The clock says 0:50 in the 4 round
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
Carla Esparza is looking to pass Paige VanZant's guard...
Carla Esparza gets her hips free and moves to half guard.
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Esparza is one of those men capable of pounding you into oblivion!
Carla Esparza tries to free her leg
Carla Esparza uses some of her skill by jumping out of VanZant's guard. She moves quickly to side mount!
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Carla Esparza throws down elbows...
She's tearing up VanZant's face with those brutal elbows! VanZant needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
VanZant's Left cheek is bruised after the punishement she's received!
VanZant has a small cut in her Left cheek
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet
She can't do it because of Esparza's moves.
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
You can see VanZant's blood making stains in the mat.
Esparza tries to move to full mount!
Nice move. She is in full mount now.
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
VanZant tries to stand up!
Esparza doesn't allow her!
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
The clock says 2:00 in the 4 round
Paige VanZant fakes a move and launches a liver kick!
That almost wrenches Carla Esparza! I'm sure that her liver will be sore tomorrow.
Hard blow to Esparza's mid-section, she seems hurt
Paige VanZant continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting her vision.
Esparza launches a kick
VanZant checks it and keeps distance.
Carla Esparza attempts a sweep single...
Carla Esparza catches Paige VanZant's far ankle and trips her to the mat! Slick takedown by Esparza.
Carla Esparza is in closed guard over VanZant
VanZant cornermen are yelling for her man to escape from the ground as Esparza can finish a fight on the ground with some good pounding if you give her the chance.
VanZant doesn't stop bleeding.
Esparza tries to escape from closed guard...
Esparza struggles to liberate her leg and jumps to half guard!
Carla Esparza is in half guard over VanZant
Esparza tries to get a side mount...
She frees her leg and is now controlling VanZant from the side mount!
The clock says 2:45 in the 4 round
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant attempts to trap Carla Esparza in her guard.
Carla Esparza keeps control and remains in side mount.
Carla Esparza is in side mount over Paige VanZant
Carla Esparza looks to mount Paige VanZant...
Carla Esparza slides her knee across and gets to mount.
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
You can see VanZant's blood making stains in the mat.
Paige VanZant tries to roll on the ground...
Esparza knows how to keep her advantage on the ground.
Paige VanZant gets sloppy and Carla Esparza tries to take advantage...
Carla Esparza wants to finish her opponent on the ground
Esparza drills Paige VanZant's face with a huge right hand! What an impact!
VanZant's Nose is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Paige VanZant's Nose
That punishment by Carla Esparza has left VanZant staggered! Carla Esparza should try push forward now and finish this!
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting her vision.
VanZant tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Carla Esparza doesn't want to lose her adventageous position and she struggles to mantain the full mount.
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on her feet
She can't do it because of Esparza's moves.
The clock says 3:35 in the 4 round
Carla Esparza is in full mount over Paige VanZant
Paige VanZant tries to roll to her side and get to half guard...
Carla Esparza rolls Paige VanZant to her stomach and takes her back!
The clock says 3:45 in the 4 round
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant
Paige VanZant continues to bleed from that cut. It could be affecting her vision.
Esparza tries to open up Paige VanZant's defense faking a few punches.
She is aggressively and repeatedly punching VanZant in the side of the head
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant
Paige VanZant is taking out her mouthpiece to breathe...
VanZant tries to stand up!
Esparza doesn't allow her!
The clock says 4:05 in the 4 round
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant
You can see VanZant's blood making stains in the mat.
Esparza delivers a few accurate elbows!
VanZant is being hit hard and trys to escape! She has to give her back!
The clock says 4:15 in the 4 round
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant with one hook in
VanZant is trying to escape from the rear mount.
Esparza tries to use some of her tricky moves but Esparza's is smart enough to counter her.
Paige VanZant gets sloppy and Carla Esparza tries to take advantage...
Esparza leans back...
She clobbers Paige VanZant's face with a huge punch! Ouch!
VanZant seems a bit groggy... her movements are not very coordinated now.
The clock says 4:25 in the 4 round
Esparza is in rear mount over VanZant with one hook in
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Carla Esparza can end the fight with her ground and pound.
You can see VanZant's blood making stains in the mat.
Carla Esparza Sees her opportunity to finish this fight on the ground and swarms all over Paige VanZant!
Paige VanZant is taking a ton of punishment! She needs to defend herself or the ref will stop the fight.
Carla Esparza turns out the lights for VanZant! What an astonishing KO by Esparza!
VanZant's Left cheek is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Paige VanZant's Left cheek
Winner is Carla Esparza by KO (GnP) at 4:35 Round 4
Statistics: Paige VanZant
Punches 4/6 (67%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 3/6 (50%)
Takedowns 4/4 (100%)
GnP strikes 1/13 (8%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 896 s
Statistics: Carla Esparza
Punches 3/4 (75%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/1 (0%)
Takedowns 6/6 (100%)
GnP strikes 60/72 (83%)
Submissions 2/2 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 2/2 (100%)
Time on the ground 944 s
Esparza’s coming out party. Next level, here she comes?