Post by The Sandmen on Jul 6, 2018 11:50:09 GMT -5
Rafael dos Anjos is calm in his corner. He looks convinced of his abilities.
Ben Askren glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.
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 Mario Yamasaki.
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Round 1
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Dos Anjos and Askren move forward as the bell signals the beginning of the fight!
Solid shot from Rafael dos Anjos to the body.
Askren blocks in time.
The clock says 0:20 in the 1 round
Askren wants to take the fight to his advantage and tries to clinch.
Askren moves forward and holds Dos Anjos
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rafael dos Anjos shoots and grab both of Ben Askren's leg, attempting to take him down with a Double Leg
Dos Anjos lifted Askren's off his feet and throws him on the mat
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Dos Anjos tries to jump to side mount.
Ben Askren jumps and show some wrestling skills as he positions himself for continuing the fight in side control.
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren is in closed guard... Dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground!
Ben Askren uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos isolates an arm in a kimura attempt!
Askren blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Dos Anjos's guard.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Ben Askren tries to open Dos Anjos's guard...
Dos Anjos breaks the lock and covers himself from Askren's punches
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos launches a few punches to Askren's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Askren tries to cover his face,
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos isolates an arm in a kimura attempt!
Askren blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Dos Anjos's guard.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos attempts to move to full guard
Ben Askren keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Ben Askren storms over Dos Anjos with a biblical punishment in the form of elbows!
Rafael dos Anjos blocks them all showing some great skills here.
Askren misses a step and Rafael dos Anjos sees an opportunity to counter him!
Dos Anjos attempts a triangle from bottom! Ben Askren slips out. Dos Anjos quickly turns his hips over and switches to the armbar! He's throwing everything at him.
Ben Askren slips out and backs away to avoid danger.
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Ben Askren. 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 Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
Ben Askren shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Rafael dos Anjos is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Askren into his guard.
The clock says 2:00 in the 1 round
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren tries to escape from closed guard...
Dos Anjos waits for the moment and tries to roll! Too late for Ben Askren! He is reversed and nor Rafael dos Anjos is on half guard!
Rafael dos Anjos is in half guard over Askren
Ben Askren attempts to move to full guard
Ben Askren manages to switch to full guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is in closed guard... Askren tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos tries to roll to his side and trap Ben Askren in his guard...
Rafael dos Anjos gets his hip out and moves to full guard.
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Stand up! This is what Dos Anjos's cornermen are shouting. Ben Askren is a submission master and he can finish the fight if you mess with him on the ground.
Ben Askren storms over Dos Anjos with a biblical punishment in the form of elbows!
Rafael dos Anjos blocks them all showing some great skills here.
Dos Anjos is trying to counter now!
Rafael dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground...
Askren knows how to keep his advantage on the ground.
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos launches a few punches to Askren's cheek from the guard.
Ben Askren uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Dos Anjos misses a step and Ben Askren sees an opportunity to counter him!
Ben Askren tries to better his position on the ground...
Askren is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Dos Anjos measures the resilience of Askren's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Askren's side.
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Dos Anjos is using some of his ground skills to escape from this...
Ben Askren pushes Rafael dos Anjos down and prevents his attempts to escape
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Ben Askren tries to better his position on the ground...
Askren is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground...
Askren knows how to keep his advantage on the ground.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Askren fires a barrage of punches at Dos Anjos's head!
This is bad! Askren is just pounding on Rafael dos Anjos's head like he's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
The clock says 3:45 in the 1 round
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He moves fast and now he is standing
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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.
Askren grabs his opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground
Great takedown by Ben Askren
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos sure knows how to turn you into a pretzel. He can finish the fight anytime while on the ground.
Dos Anjos works on the ground with his fingers over Askren's face
Askren shakes his head and continues fighting on the ground.
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Askren tries to improve position.
He frees a leg.
The clock says 4:30 in the 1 round
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Ben Askren tries to free his leg...
Dos Anjos rolls on the ground and moves to side mount! Awesome maneuver!
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos looks to mount Ben Askren...
Ben Askren takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren... he fakes a move and then tries a kneebar!
Askren rolls on the ground trying to get free and after a few kicks of his own he escapes.
Rafael dos Anjos gets sloppy and Ben Askren tries to take advantage...
Ben Askren throws up a triangle attempt!
Rafael dos Anjos postures up and breaks the triangle.
The ref stops the action. The round is over.
That round was a toss up.
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Round 2
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Askren decides to launch some tentative punches
Nothing from this exchange. Askren moves back and takes a deep breath.
The two exchange wildly
Both fighters are missing terribly.
Rafael dos Anjos attempts a sweep single...
Rafael dos Anjos catches Ben Askren's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Dos Anjos.
Crushing shot to Askren's body! He's holding his side
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Ben Askren launches a few punches to Dos Anjos's cheek from the guard.
Rafael dos Anjos uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Dos Anjos is trying to counter now!
Rafael dos Anjos is looking to pass Ben Askren's guard...
Rafael dos Anjos gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in half guard over Askren
Askren measures the resilience of Dos Anjos's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Dos Anjos's side.
Rafael dos Anjos is in half guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries a kimura
Askren breaks the lock.
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Ben Askren launches a few punches to Dos Anjos's cheek from the guard.
Rafael dos Anjos uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos storms over Askren with a biblical punishment in the form of elbows!
Dos Anjos doesn't stop and viciously hits again and again Askren's face with his elbows!
The clock says 1:30 in the 2 round
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Askren measures the resilience of Dos Anjos's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Dos Anjos's side.
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos isolates Ben Askren's right arm looking for an armbar...
Dos Anjos is locking that armbar...
Ben Askren manages to sit up and pull his arm out of danger! Rafael dos Anjos lost his dominant position.
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries to close his guard around Askren
He succeeds!
The clock says 2:00 in the 2 round
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren launches a barrage of elbows over Dos Anjos's face!
Rafael dos Anjos blocks the elbows and tries to cool down the fight.
Dos Anjos is trying to counter now!
Askren is in closed guard... Dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Ben Askren!
The clock says 2:10 in the 2 round
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos throws the leg over and rolls it over into an armbar!
Askren breaks the lock showing some skills...
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Ben Askren launches a few punches to Dos Anjos's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Dos Anjos tries to cover his face,
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Dos Anjos catch Ben Askren's left arm and tries a kimura
Ben Askren holds his own arm and struggles until he gets free
Dos Anjos misses a step and Ben Askren sees an opportunity to counter him!
Ben Askren launches a few punches to Dos Anjos's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Dos Anjos tries to cover his face,
The clock says 2:45 in the 2 round
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top
Askren is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Askren measures the resilience of Dos Anjos's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Dos Anjos's side.
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Dos Anjos suddenly holds Ben Askren's arm and tries an armbar!
Askren can break the lock and now he is in a closed guard over Rafael dos Anjos!
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren is in closed guard... Dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground!
Ben Askren uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Askren is trying to counter now!
Ben Askren tries to open Dos Anjos's guard...
Great bombs from the top by Ben Askren. Dos Anjos is unable to cover himself now!
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Ben Askren wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Ben Askren can't find an opening in his opponent's guard!
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren tries to improve his position on the ground as he sits on his knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Ben Askren fakes a few punches and then slips one leg to get the half mount.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He moves fast and now he is standing
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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.
Rafael dos Anjos goes with a looping right hand while Ben Askren jumps back and jabs
That one hits but Askren seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange here.
Dos Anjos is holding Ben Askren's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Ben Askren loses balance and goes to the ground.
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Dos Anjos launches a vicious knee to Ben Askren's head!
Askren pushes forward and rolls over his own back! Nice move! Ben Askren stands up!
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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 Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
The clock says 4:30 in the 2 round
Dos Anjos is holding Ben Askren's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Ben Askren loses balance and goes to the ground.
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Rafael dos Anjos can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Askren tries to move on the ground and shows Rafael dos Anjos a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Askren's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Mario Yamasaki knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos looks to mount Ben Askren...
Ben Askren takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries to finish with a leg lock!
Askren is able to break the lock.
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is moving on the ground...
Askren tries to counter Dos Anjos's moves on the ground.
The referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.
I would be surprised if the judges didn't see that round for Askren.
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Round 3
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Ben Askren goes with a looping right hand while Rafael dos Anjos jumps back and jabs
Askren only hits air and the subsequent exchange is fruitless.
The two exchange wildly
both landing but without much steam behind the shots.
Askren is holding Rafael dos Anjos's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rafael dos Anjos shows great balance while pushing away Ben Askren
Askren misses a step and Rafael dos Anjos sees an opportunity to counter him!
Rafael dos Anjos fakes a punch and launches himself over Ben Askren
Great move by Dos Anjos who pushes his opponent under a troublesome thai clinch
The fighters are clinching.
Rafael dos Anjos slightly pushes Askren into the fence and tries to calm down the action.
The referee intervenes to break the clinch.
The clock says 0:55 in the 3 round
Dos Anjos fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Ben Askren didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries to finish with a leg lock!
Askren is able to break the lock.
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren... he fakes a move and then tries a kneebar!
That Kneebar from Rafael dos Anjos appears to be unbreakable
That Kneebar from Rafael dos Anjos appears to be unbreakable
Askren rolls on the ground trying to get free and after a few kicks of his own he escapes.
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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 Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
Rafael dos Anjos attempts a sweep single...
Rafael dos Anjos catches Ben Askren's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Dos Anjos.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is taking this opportunity to rest.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
Askren's attempts to cover himself and blocks those elbows.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries to better his position on the ground...
Askren holds Rafael dos Anjos's head against his chin in the closed guard.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Dos Anjos is in closed guard... Askren tries to roll on the ground!
Rafael dos Anjos uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos tries to improve his position on the ground as he sits on his knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Askren leans and gets Rafael dos Anjos's arms as he brings him to the ground again.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Dos Anjos is in closed guard... Askren tries to roll on the ground!
Rafael dos Anjos uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Mario Yamasaki has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
The two exchange wildly
Dos Anjos is connecting with a few punches
The two exchange wildly
Askren is connecting with a few punches
Dos Anjos fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Ben Askren didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Askren tries to close his guard around Dos Anjos
He is not able to do it
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Askren tries to move on the ground and shows Rafael dos Anjos a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Askren's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Mario Yamasaki knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren... he fakes a move and then tries a kneebar!
Dos Anjos is locking that Kneebar...
Askren rolls on the ground trying to get free and after a few kicks of his own he escapes.
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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 Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
Dos Anjos leads with a punch
Ben Askren evades but whiffs with a counter.
Rafael dos Anjos attempts a sweep single...
Rafael dos Anjos catches Ben Askren's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Dos Anjos.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos is looking to pass Ben Askren's guard...
Rafael dos Anjos gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
The clock says 3:50 in the 3 round
Rafael dos Anjos is in half guard over Askren
Dos Anjos tries to get a side mount...
He frees his leg and is now controlling Askren from the side mount!
The clock says 4:00 in the 3 round
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos isolates Ben Askren's right arm looking for an armbar...
Ben Askren manages to sit up and pull his arm out of danger! Rafael dos Anjos lost his dominant position.
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Askren moves on the ground..
...he makes no progress.
Askren clumsily fails here and it's time for Rafael dos Anjos to fight back!
Dos Anjos tries to close his guard around Askren
He succeeds!
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos throws up a triangle attempt!
Ben Askren postures up and breaks the triangle.
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren struggles on the ground and tries to break Rafael dos Anjos's guard...
Ben Askren is in Dos Anjos open guard now
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Askren struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Dos Anjos misses a step and Ben Askren sees an opportunity to counter him!
Ben Askren throws down elbows...
Dos Anjos is not making himself an easy target.
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos throws up a triangle attempt!
Punishing hold!
Ben Askren postures up and breaks the triangle.
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Askren struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Mario Yamasaki separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
This round is clearly for Ben Askren.
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Round 4
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Askren fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Rafael dos Anjos didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Dos Anjos ribs are getting hammered, they look bad!
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries to close his guard around Askren
He is not able to do it
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Askren tries to move to full mount
Askren's ground game is not enough to provide him any advantage
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Ben Askren tries to pass to half guard...
Rafael dos Anjos's guard is too good and he fails to pass.
Mario Yamasaki has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
The clock says 0:50 in the 4 round
Askren is holding Rafael dos Anjos's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rafael dos Anjos loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 1:00 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Ben Askren is a submission wizard. He has forgotten more BJJ than most fighters have learned.
Askren delivers a few accurate elbows!
Rafael dos Anjos blocks them all showing some great skills here.
Ben Askren gets sloppy and Rafael dos Anjos tries to take advantage...
Dos Anjos measures the resilience of Askren's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Askren's side.
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren launches a barrage of elbows over Dos Anjos's face!
Those elbows may finish the fight soon if Dos Anjos doesn't fight back!
Dos Anjos's Left eye is bruised after the punishement he's received!
The clock says 1:15 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries to move on the ground and shows Ben Askren a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Dos Anjos's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Mario Yamasaki knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Dos Anjos's Forehead is beginning to swell
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren launches a barrage of elbows over Dos Anjos's face!
Those elbows may finish the fight soon if Dos Anjos doesn't fight back!
There is a small laceration on Rafael dos Anjos's Left eye
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Ben Askren looks to mount Rafael dos Anjos...
Rafael dos Anjos takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
The clock says 1:40 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Ben Askren storms over Dos Anjos with a biblical punishment in the form of elbows!
Rafael dos Anjos blocks them all showing some great skills here.
Dos Anjos tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Dos Anjos switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Askren struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
This match is even... This could go the distance.
Dos Anjos tries to close his guard around Askren
He succeeds!
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren is in closed guard... Dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground!
Ben Askren uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Dos Anjos misses a step and Ben Askren sees an opportunity to counter him!
Askren is looking to end this fight with strikes
Dos Anjos anticipates his moves and avoids danger.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos tries to close the guard.
Nothing from this effort.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Ben Askren wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Ben Askren can't find an opening in his opponent's guard!
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.
Rafael dos Anjos shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Ben Askren is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Dos Anjos into his guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos throws a few hammer fists to the face of Ben Askren
Blocked by Askren.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Askren measures the resilience of Dos Anjos's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Dos Anjos blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos tries to improve his position on the ground as he sits on his knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Askren leans and gets Rafael dos Anjos's arms as he brings him to the ground again.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos tries to escape from the closed guard
Rafael dos Anjos any adventage in the ground.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos is looking to pass Ben Askren's guard...
Ben Askren has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
BJJ! That is what must be passing through Askren's mind right now. Nobody wants to stay long in that position with a submission artist like Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos use some of his wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard!
After a few tentative moves, he jumps to side mount! The crowd in Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) is cheering him!
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos goes for an americana!
Askren breaks free.
Askren is trying to counter now!
Ben Askren attempts to trap Rafael dos Anjos in his guard.
Ben Askren manages to switch to half guard.
Mario Yamasaki has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
Dos Anjos is holding Ben Askren's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Ben Askren shows great balance while pushing away Rafael dos Anjos
The clock says 3:25 in the 4 round
Askren is holding Rafael dos Anjos's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rafael dos Anjos loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 3:35 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos attempts to trap Ben Askren in his guard.
Ben Askren keeps control and remains in side mount.
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren launches a barrage of elbows over Dos Anjos's face!
Those elbows may finish the fight soon if Dos Anjos doesn't fight back!
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Neither fighter's clearly ahead right now.
Rafael dos Anjos attempts to trap Ben Askren in his guard.
Rafael dos Anjos manages to switch to half guard.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries to move on the ground and shows Ben Askren a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Dos Anjos uses his forearms to block the impact!
Askren clumsily fails here and it's time for Rafael dos Anjos to fight back!
Dos Anjos reaches under and rolls for a kneebar!
Askren blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard.
The clock says 4:10 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos throws his legs up in a triangle attempt!
Ben Askren realizes the danger and stands up to avoid the attack.
Rafael dos Anjos gets sloppy and Ben Askren tries to take advantage...
Askren decides to go after his opponent and jumps inside Dos Anjos's guard.
Dos Anjos tries to fight back with his feet and Askren just needs another plan now.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries an armbar from the bottom!
Ben Askren breaks the lock and moves himself to side control.
Askren is trying to counter now!
Askren sits over his knees and pushes away Dos Anjos's leg!
Ben Askren is able to put away his leg and then jumps to side mount.
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren launches a barrage of elbows over Dos Anjos's face!
Those elbows may finish the fight soon if Dos Anjos doesn't fight back!
The clock says 4:40 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
BJJ! That is what must be passing through Dos Anjos's mind right now. Nobody wants to stay long in that position with a submission artist like Askren
Askren tries to open up Dos Anjos with a few strikes with his right elbow...
Dos Anjos blocks a few elbows and now Ben Askren will have to look for another option here.
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He moves fast and now he is standing
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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.
The ref stops the action. The round is over.
I don't think either fighter got the better of their opponent that round.
=========================================
Round 5
=========================================
The clock says 0:10 in the 5 round
The match-makers did a great job of pairing up these two evenly matched warriors.
Dos Anjos steps forward
Ben Askren catches him with an uppercut to the face!
Dos Anjos's Right eye is beginning to swell
Rafael dos Anjos shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Ben Askren is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Dos Anjos into his guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries to better his position on the ground...
Askren holds Rafael dos Anjos's head against his chin in the closed guard.
Askren tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Dos Anjos is in closed guard... Askren tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Dos Anjos struggles and pushes his opponent maybe a bit anxiously
The clock says 0:50 in the 5 round
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
One, two, three! Dos Anjos's being punished here!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren works on the ground with his fingers over Dos Anjos's face
Dos Anjos shakes his head and continues fighting on the ground.
The clock says 1:10 in the 5 round
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Ben Askren throws down elbows...
He's tearing up Dos Anjos's face with those brutal elbows! Dos Anjos needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Dos Anjos measures the resilience of Askren's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Askren blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Dos Anjos clumsily fails here and it's time for Ben Askren to fight back!
Ben Askren aggressively and repeatedly punches Dos Anjos.
He needs to do something soon or the referee will stop the fight!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Ben Askren doesn't want to lose his adventageous position and he struggles to mantain the full mount.
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Rafael dos Anjos can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Rafael dos Anjos tries to roll to his side and trap Ben Askren in his guard...
Ben Askren keeps good control and remains in full mount.
The clock says 1:50 in the 5 round
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren fires a barrage of punches at Dos Anjos's head!
This is bad! Askren is just pounding on Rafael dos Anjos's head like he's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
Dos Anjos's Left eye is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Rafael dos Anjos's Left eye
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground...
Askren knows how to keep his advantage on the ground.
Rafael dos Anjos gets sloppy and Ben Askren tries to take advantage...
Askren fires a barrage of punches at Dos Anjos's head!
This is bad! Askren is just pounding on Rafael dos Anjos's head like he's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He can't do it because of Askren's moves.
Mario Yamasaki has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
The clock says 2:25 in the 5 round
Askren is holding Rafael dos Anjos's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rafael dos Anjos loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 2:35 in the 5 round
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos attempts to trap Ben Askren in his guard.
Ben Askren keeps control and remains in side mount.
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren delivers a few accurate elbows!
Dos Anjos is being hit hard and trys to escape! He has to give his back!
Rafael dos Anjos seems hurt! He stumbles backwards and he's an easy target for Ben Askren!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos has given his back to Ben Askren who is trying to get one hook in!
Ben Askren has one hook in!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
Askren tries to open up Rafael dos Anjos's defense faking a few punches.
He is aggressively and repeatedly punching Dos Anjos in the side of the head
There is a small laceration on Rafael dos Anjos's Forehead
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
Good looking punches from Ben Askren on the ground
They could take their toll on Dos Anjos.
Dos Anjos has a small cut in his Mouth
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
You can see Dos Anjos's blood making stains in the mat.
Ben Askren throws down elbows...
He's tearing up Dos Anjos's face with those brutal elbows! Dos Anjos needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
Dos Anjos has a small cut in his Left eye
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
Dos Anjos doesn't stop bleeding.
Askren works on the ground with his fingers over Dos Anjos's face
He seems to have encountered the eye! What a classless move!
Mario Yamasaki didn't see the foul!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
Rafael dos Anjos is a bloody mess!
Dos Anjos tries to stand up!
Askren doesn't allow him!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
You can see Dos Anjos's blood making stains in the mat.
Askren has one hook in and is trying to get the second one! If he succeed things are goint to get very bad for Dos Anjos.
Nicely done! Askren now has two hooks in! The end may be near!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with two hooks in
Askren fires a barrage of punches at Dos Anjos's head!
This is bad! Askren is just pounding on Rafael dos Anjos's head like he's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
Dos Anjos's Left eye is bruised after the punishement he's received!
There is a small laceration on Rafael dos Anjos's Left eye
Dos Anjos seems a bit groggy... his movements are not very coordinated now.
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with two hooks in
Dos Anjos doesn't stop bleeding.
Rafael dos Anjos doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He can't do it because of Askren's moves.
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with two hooks in
Askren tenatively looks for a way to finish his opponent! This is a nightmare for Dos Anjos!
Askren has one of his arm over Rafael dos Anjos's shoulder and is ready for a RNC!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with two hooks in
Askren tenatively looks for a way to finish his opponent! This is a nightmare for Dos Anjos!
Askren has one of his arm over Rafael dos Anjos's shoulder and is ready for a RNC!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with two hooks in
Ben Askren storms over Dos Anjos with a biblical punishment in the form of elbows!
Askren doesn't stop and viciously hits again and again Dos Anjos's face with his elbows!
That brutal impact left Dos Anjos laid out on the mat! Ben Askren's corner come in to congratulate him!
Winner is Ben Askren by KO (Elbows) at 4:56 Round 5
Statistics: Rafael dos Anjos
Punches 14/24 (58%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/2 (0%)
Takedowns 9/10 (90%)
GnP strikes 12/28 (43%)
Submissions 24/24 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 1156 s
Statistics: Ben Askren
Punches 12/24 (50%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 1/2 (50%)
Takedowns 6/7 (86%)
GnP strikes 75/156 (48%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 1156 s
Good back and forth fight. Ben was kinda winning, then no one was winning, then RDA was definitely winning, then Ben was definitely winning, then Ben won.
Ben Askren glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.
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 Mario Yamasaki.
=========================================
Round 1
=========================================
Dos Anjos and Askren move forward as the bell signals the beginning of the fight!
Solid shot from Rafael dos Anjos to the body.
Askren blocks in time.
The clock says 0:20 in the 1 round
Askren wants to take the fight to his advantage and tries to clinch.
Askren moves forward and holds Dos Anjos
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rafael dos Anjos shoots and grab both of Ben Askren's leg, attempting to take him down with a Double Leg
Dos Anjos lifted Askren's off his feet and throws him on the mat
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Dos Anjos tries to jump to side mount.
Ben Askren jumps and show some wrestling skills as he positions himself for continuing the fight in side control.
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren is in closed guard... Dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground!
Ben Askren uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos isolates an arm in a kimura attempt!
Askren blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Dos Anjos's guard.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Ben Askren tries to open Dos Anjos's guard...
Dos Anjos breaks the lock and covers himself from Askren's punches
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos launches a few punches to Askren's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Askren tries to cover his face,
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos isolates an arm in a kimura attempt!
Askren blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Dos Anjos's guard.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos attempts to move to full guard
Ben Askren keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Ben Askren storms over Dos Anjos with a biblical punishment in the form of elbows!
Rafael dos Anjos blocks them all showing some great skills here.
Askren misses a step and Rafael dos Anjos sees an opportunity to counter him!
Dos Anjos attempts a triangle from bottom! Ben Askren slips out. Dos Anjos quickly turns his hips over and switches to the armbar! He's throwing everything at him.
Ben Askren slips out and backs away to avoid danger.
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Ben Askren. 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 Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
Ben Askren shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Rafael dos Anjos is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Askren into his guard.
The clock says 2:00 in the 1 round
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren tries to escape from closed guard...
Dos Anjos waits for the moment and tries to roll! Too late for Ben Askren! He is reversed and nor Rafael dos Anjos is on half guard!
Rafael dos Anjos is in half guard over Askren
Ben Askren attempts to move to full guard
Ben Askren manages to switch to full guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is in closed guard... Askren tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos tries to roll to his side and trap Ben Askren in his guard...
Rafael dos Anjos gets his hip out and moves to full guard.
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Stand up! This is what Dos Anjos's cornermen are shouting. Ben Askren is a submission master and he can finish the fight if you mess with him on the ground.
Ben Askren storms over Dos Anjos with a biblical punishment in the form of elbows!
Rafael dos Anjos blocks them all showing some great skills here.
Dos Anjos is trying to counter now!
Rafael dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground...
Askren knows how to keep his advantage on the ground.
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos launches a few punches to Askren's cheek from the guard.
Ben Askren uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Dos Anjos misses a step and Ben Askren sees an opportunity to counter him!
Ben Askren tries to better his position on the ground...
Askren is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Dos Anjos measures the resilience of Askren's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Askren's side.
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Dos Anjos is using some of his ground skills to escape from this...
Ben Askren pushes Rafael dos Anjos down and prevents his attempts to escape
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Ben Askren tries to better his position on the ground...
Askren is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground...
Askren knows how to keep his advantage on the ground.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Askren fires a barrage of punches at Dos Anjos's head!
This is bad! Askren is just pounding on Rafael dos Anjos's head like he's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
The clock says 3:45 in the 1 round
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He moves fast and now he is standing
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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.
Askren grabs his opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground
Great takedown by Ben Askren
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos sure knows how to turn you into a pretzel. He can finish the fight anytime while on the ground.
Dos Anjos works on the ground with his fingers over Askren's face
Askren shakes his head and continues fighting on the ground.
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Askren tries to improve position.
He frees a leg.
The clock says 4:30 in the 1 round
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Ben Askren tries to free his leg...
Dos Anjos rolls on the ground and moves to side mount! Awesome maneuver!
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos looks to mount Ben Askren...
Ben Askren takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren... he fakes a move and then tries a kneebar!
Askren rolls on the ground trying to get free and after a few kicks of his own he escapes.
Rafael dos Anjos gets sloppy and Ben Askren tries to take advantage...
Ben Askren throws up a triangle attempt!
Rafael dos Anjos postures up and breaks the triangle.
The ref stops the action. The round is over.
That round was a toss up.
=========================================
Round 2
=========================================
Askren decides to launch some tentative punches
Nothing from this exchange. Askren moves back and takes a deep breath.
The two exchange wildly
Both fighters are missing terribly.
Rafael dos Anjos attempts a sweep single...
Rafael dos Anjos catches Ben Askren's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Dos Anjos.
Crushing shot to Askren's body! He's holding his side
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Ben Askren launches a few punches to Dos Anjos's cheek from the guard.
Rafael dos Anjos uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Dos Anjos is trying to counter now!
Rafael dos Anjos is looking to pass Ben Askren's guard...
Rafael dos Anjos gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in half guard over Askren
Askren measures the resilience of Dos Anjos's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Dos Anjos's side.
Rafael dos Anjos is in half guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries a kimura
Askren breaks the lock.
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Ben Askren launches a few punches to Dos Anjos's cheek from the guard.
Rafael dos Anjos uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos storms over Askren with a biblical punishment in the form of elbows!
Dos Anjos doesn't stop and viciously hits again and again Askren's face with his elbows!
The clock says 1:30 in the 2 round
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Askren measures the resilience of Dos Anjos's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Dos Anjos's side.
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos isolates Ben Askren's right arm looking for an armbar...
Dos Anjos is locking that armbar...
Ben Askren manages to sit up and pull his arm out of danger! Rafael dos Anjos lost his dominant position.
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries to close his guard around Askren
He succeeds!
The clock says 2:00 in the 2 round
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren launches a barrage of elbows over Dos Anjos's face!
Rafael dos Anjos blocks the elbows and tries to cool down the fight.
Dos Anjos is trying to counter now!
Askren is in closed guard... Dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Ben Askren!
The clock says 2:10 in the 2 round
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos throws the leg over and rolls it over into an armbar!
Askren breaks the lock showing some skills...
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Ben Askren launches a few punches to Dos Anjos's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Dos Anjos tries to cover his face,
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Dos Anjos catch Ben Askren's left arm and tries a kimura
Ben Askren holds his own arm and struggles until he gets free
Dos Anjos misses a step and Ben Askren sees an opportunity to counter him!
Ben Askren launches a few punches to Dos Anjos's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Dos Anjos tries to cover his face,
The clock says 2:45 in the 2 round
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top
Askren is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Askren measures the resilience of Dos Anjos's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Dos Anjos's side.
Rafael dos Anjos is in full mount over Ben Askren
Dos Anjos suddenly holds Ben Askren's arm and tries an armbar!
Askren can break the lock and now he is in a closed guard over Rafael dos Anjos!
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren is in closed guard... Dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground!
Ben Askren uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Askren is trying to counter now!
Ben Askren tries to open Dos Anjos's guard...
Great bombs from the top by Ben Askren. Dos Anjos is unable to cover himself now!
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Ben Askren wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Ben Askren can't find an opening in his opponent's guard!
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren tries to improve his position on the ground as he sits on his knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Ben Askren fakes a few punches and then slips one leg to get the half mount.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He moves fast and now he is standing
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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.
Rafael dos Anjos goes with a looping right hand while Ben Askren jumps back and jabs
That one hits but Askren seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange here.
Dos Anjos is holding Ben Askren's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Ben Askren loses balance and goes to the ground.
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Dos Anjos launches a vicious knee to Ben Askren's head!
Askren pushes forward and rolls over his own back! Nice move! Ben Askren stands up!
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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 Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
The clock says 4:30 in the 2 round
Dos Anjos is holding Ben Askren's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Ben Askren loses balance and goes to the ground.
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Rafael dos Anjos can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Askren tries to move on the ground and shows Rafael dos Anjos a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Askren's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Mario Yamasaki knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos looks to mount Ben Askren...
Ben Askren takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries to finish with a leg lock!
Askren is able to break the lock.
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is moving on the ground...
Askren tries to counter Dos Anjos's moves on the ground.
The referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.
I would be surprised if the judges didn't see that round for Askren.
=========================================
Round 3
=========================================
Ben Askren goes with a looping right hand while Rafael dos Anjos jumps back and jabs
Askren only hits air and the subsequent exchange is fruitless.
The two exchange wildly
both landing but without much steam behind the shots.
Askren is holding Rafael dos Anjos's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rafael dos Anjos shows great balance while pushing away Ben Askren
Askren misses a step and Rafael dos Anjos sees an opportunity to counter him!
Rafael dos Anjos fakes a punch and launches himself over Ben Askren
Great move by Dos Anjos who pushes his opponent under a troublesome thai clinch
The fighters are clinching.
Rafael dos Anjos slightly pushes Askren into the fence and tries to calm down the action.
The referee intervenes to break the clinch.
The clock says 0:55 in the 3 round
Dos Anjos fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Ben Askren didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries to finish with a leg lock!
Askren is able to break the lock.
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren... he fakes a move and then tries a kneebar!
That Kneebar from Rafael dos Anjos appears to be unbreakable
That Kneebar from Rafael dos Anjos appears to be unbreakable
Askren rolls on the ground trying to get free and after a few kicks of his own he escapes.
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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 Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
Rafael dos Anjos attempts a sweep single...
Rafael dos Anjos catches Ben Askren's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Dos Anjos.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is taking this opportunity to rest.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
Askren's attempts to cover himself and blocks those elbows.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries to better his position on the ground...
Askren holds Rafael dos Anjos's head against his chin in the closed guard.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Dos Anjos is in closed guard... Askren tries to roll on the ground!
Rafael dos Anjos uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos tries to improve his position on the ground as he sits on his knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Askren leans and gets Rafael dos Anjos's arms as he brings him to the ground again.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Dos Anjos is in closed guard... Askren tries to roll on the ground!
Rafael dos Anjos uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Mario Yamasaki has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
The two exchange wildly
Dos Anjos is connecting with a few punches
The two exchange wildly
Askren is connecting with a few punches
Dos Anjos fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Ben Askren didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Askren tries to close his guard around Dos Anjos
He is not able to do it
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Askren tries to move on the ground and shows Rafael dos Anjos a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Askren's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Mario Yamasaki knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Rafael dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren
Dos Anjos is in open guard over Askren... he fakes a move and then tries a kneebar!
Dos Anjos is locking that Kneebar...
Askren rolls on the ground trying to get free and after a few kicks of his own he escapes.
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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 Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
Dos Anjos leads with a punch
Ben Askren evades but whiffs with a counter.
Rafael dos Anjos attempts a sweep single...
Rafael dos Anjos catches Ben Askren's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Dos Anjos.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos is looking to pass Ben Askren's guard...
Rafael dos Anjos gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
The clock says 3:50 in the 3 round
Rafael dos Anjos is in half guard over Askren
Dos Anjos tries to get a side mount...
He frees his leg and is now controlling Askren from the side mount!
The clock says 4:00 in the 3 round
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos isolates Ben Askren's right arm looking for an armbar...
Ben Askren manages to sit up and pull his arm out of danger! Rafael dos Anjos lost his dominant position.
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Askren moves on the ground..
...he makes no progress.
Askren clumsily fails here and it's time for Rafael dos Anjos to fight back!
Dos Anjos tries to close his guard around Askren
He succeeds!
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos throws up a triangle attempt!
Ben Askren postures up and breaks the triangle.
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren struggles on the ground and tries to break Rafael dos Anjos's guard...
Ben Askren is in Dos Anjos open guard now
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Askren struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Dos Anjos misses a step and Ben Askren sees an opportunity to counter him!
Ben Askren throws down elbows...
Dos Anjos is not making himself an easy target.
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos throws up a triangle attempt!
Punishing hold!
Ben Askren postures up and breaks the triangle.
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Askren struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Mario Yamasaki separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
This round is clearly for Ben Askren.
=========================================
Round 4
=========================================
Askren fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Rafael dos Anjos didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Dos Anjos ribs are getting hammered, they look bad!
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries to close his guard around Askren
He is not able to do it
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Askren tries to move to full mount
Askren's ground game is not enough to provide him any advantage
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Ben Askren tries to pass to half guard...
Rafael dos Anjos's guard is too good and he fails to pass.
Mario Yamasaki has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
The clock says 0:50 in the 4 round
Askren is holding Rafael dos Anjos's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rafael dos Anjos loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 1:00 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Ben Askren is a submission wizard. He has forgotten more BJJ than most fighters have learned.
Askren delivers a few accurate elbows!
Rafael dos Anjos blocks them all showing some great skills here.
Ben Askren gets sloppy and Rafael dos Anjos tries to take advantage...
Dos Anjos measures the resilience of Askren's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Askren's side.
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren launches a barrage of elbows over Dos Anjos's face!
Those elbows may finish the fight soon if Dos Anjos doesn't fight back!
Dos Anjos's Left eye is bruised after the punishement he's received!
The clock says 1:15 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries to move on the ground and shows Ben Askren a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Dos Anjos's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Mario Yamasaki knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Dos Anjos's Forehead is beginning to swell
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren launches a barrage of elbows over Dos Anjos's face!
Those elbows may finish the fight soon if Dos Anjos doesn't fight back!
There is a small laceration on Rafael dos Anjos's Left eye
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Ben Askren looks to mount Rafael dos Anjos...
Rafael dos Anjos takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
The clock says 1:40 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
Ben Askren storms over Dos Anjos with a biblical punishment in the form of elbows!
Rafael dos Anjos blocks them all showing some great skills here.
Dos Anjos tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Dos Anjos switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Askren struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Ben Askren is in open guard over Dos Anjos
This match is even... This could go the distance.
Dos Anjos tries to close his guard around Askren
He succeeds!
Ben Askren is in closed guard over Dos Anjos
Askren is in closed guard... Dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground!
Ben Askren uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Dos Anjos misses a step and Ben Askren sees an opportunity to counter him!
Askren is looking to end this fight with strikes
Dos Anjos anticipates his moves and avoids danger.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos tries to close the guard.
Nothing from this effort.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Ben Askren wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Ben Askren can't find an opening in his opponent's guard!
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.
Rafael dos Anjos shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Ben Askren is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Dos Anjos into his guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos throws a few hammer fists to the face of Ben Askren
Blocked by Askren.
Poorly executed technique. Ben Askren looks to counter!
Askren measures the resilience of Dos Anjos's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Dos Anjos blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos tries to improve his position on the ground as he sits on his knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Askren leans and gets Rafael dos Anjos's arms as he brings him to the ground again.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Dos Anjos tries to escape from the closed guard
Rafael dos Anjos any adventage in the ground.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos is looking to pass Ben Askren's guard...
Ben Askren has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
BJJ! That is what must be passing through Askren's mind right now. Nobody wants to stay long in that position with a submission artist like Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos use some of his wrestling skills to escape from the closed guard!
After a few tentative moves, he jumps to side mount! The crowd in Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) is cheering him!
Rafael dos Anjos is in side mount over Ben Askren
Rafael dos Anjos goes for an americana!
Askren breaks free.
Askren is trying to counter now!
Ben Askren attempts to trap Rafael dos Anjos in his guard.
Ben Askren manages to switch to half guard.
Mario Yamasaki has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
Dos Anjos is holding Ben Askren's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Ben Askren shows great balance while pushing away Rafael dos Anjos
The clock says 3:25 in the 4 round
Askren is holding Rafael dos Anjos's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rafael dos Anjos loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 3:35 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos attempts to trap Ben Askren in his guard.
Ben Askren keeps control and remains in side mount.
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren launches a barrage of elbows over Dos Anjos's face!
Those elbows may finish the fight soon if Dos Anjos doesn't fight back!
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Neither fighter's clearly ahead right now.
Rafael dos Anjos attempts to trap Ben Askren in his guard.
Rafael dos Anjos manages to switch to half guard.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries to move on the ground and shows Ben Askren a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Dos Anjos uses his forearms to block the impact!
Askren clumsily fails here and it's time for Rafael dos Anjos to fight back!
Dos Anjos reaches under and rolls for a kneebar!
Askren blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard.
The clock says 4:10 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos throws his legs up in a triangle attempt!
Ben Askren realizes the danger and stands up to avoid the attack.
Rafael dos Anjos gets sloppy and Ben Askren tries to take advantage...
Askren decides to go after his opponent and jumps inside Dos Anjos's guard.
Dos Anjos tries to fight back with his feet and Askren just needs another plan now.
Ben Askren is in half guard over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries an armbar from the bottom!
Ben Askren breaks the lock and moves himself to side control.
Askren is trying to counter now!
Askren sits over his knees and pushes away Dos Anjos's leg!
Ben Askren is able to put away his leg and then jumps to side mount.
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren launches a barrage of elbows over Dos Anjos's face!
Those elbows may finish the fight soon if Dos Anjos doesn't fight back!
The clock says 4:40 in the 4 round
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
BJJ! That is what must be passing through Dos Anjos's mind right now. Nobody wants to stay long in that position with a submission artist like Askren
Askren tries to open up Dos Anjos with a few strikes with his right elbow...
Dos Anjos blocks a few elbows and now Ben Askren will have to look for another option here.
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He moves fast and now he is standing
Mario Yamasaki halts the fight to stand up Rafael dos Anjos. 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.
The ref stops the action. The round is over.
I don't think either fighter got the better of their opponent that round.
=========================================
Round 5
=========================================
The clock says 0:10 in the 5 round
The match-makers did a great job of pairing up these two evenly matched warriors.
Dos Anjos steps forward
Ben Askren catches him with an uppercut to the face!
Dos Anjos's Right eye is beginning to swell
Rafael dos Anjos shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Ben Askren is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Dos Anjos into his guard.
Rafael dos Anjos is in closed guard over Askren
Rafael dos Anjos tries to better his position on the ground...
Askren holds Rafael dos Anjos's head against his chin in the closed guard.
Askren tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Dos Anjos is in closed guard... Askren tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Dos Anjos struggles and pushes his opponent maybe a bit anxiously
The clock says 0:50 in the 5 round
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
One, two, three! Dos Anjos's being punished here!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren works on the ground with his fingers over Dos Anjos's face
Dos Anjos shakes his head and continues fighting on the ground.
The clock says 1:10 in the 5 round
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Ben Askren throws down elbows...
He's tearing up Dos Anjos's face with those brutal elbows! Dos Anjos needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Dos Anjos measures the resilience of Askren's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Askren blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Dos Anjos clumsily fails here and it's time for Ben Askren to fight back!
Ben Askren aggressively and repeatedly punches Dos Anjos.
He needs to do something soon or the referee will stop the fight!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Dos Anjos tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Ben Askren doesn't want to lose his adventageous position and he struggles to mantain the full mount.
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Rafael dos Anjos can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Rafael dos Anjos tries to roll to his side and trap Ben Askren in his guard...
Ben Askren keeps good control and remains in full mount.
The clock says 1:50 in the 5 round
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren fires a barrage of punches at Dos Anjos's head!
This is bad! Askren is just pounding on Rafael dos Anjos's head like he's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
Dos Anjos's Left eye is beginning to swell
There is a small laceration on Rafael dos Anjos's Left eye
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos tries to roll on the ground...
Askren knows how to keep his advantage on the ground.
Rafael dos Anjos gets sloppy and Ben Askren tries to take advantage...
Askren fires a barrage of punches at Dos Anjos's head!
This is bad! Askren is just pounding on Rafael dos Anjos's head like he's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
Ben Askren is in full mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He can't do it because of Askren's moves.
Mario Yamasaki has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Copps Coliseum (Hamilton, Ontario) are cheering for the fighters.
The clock says 2:25 in the 5 round
Askren is holding Rafael dos Anjos's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rafael dos Anjos loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 2:35 in the 5 round
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Rafael dos Anjos attempts to trap Ben Askren in his guard.
Ben Askren keeps control and remains in side mount.
Ben Askren is in side mount over Rafael dos Anjos
Askren delivers a few accurate elbows!
Dos Anjos is being hit hard and trys to escape! He has to give his back!
Rafael dos Anjos seems hurt! He stumbles backwards and he's an easy target for Ben Askren!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos
Dos Anjos has given his back to Ben Askren who is trying to get one hook in!
Ben Askren has one hook in!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
Askren tries to open up Rafael dos Anjos's defense faking a few punches.
He is aggressively and repeatedly punching Dos Anjos in the side of the head
There is a small laceration on Rafael dos Anjos's Forehead
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
Good looking punches from Ben Askren on the ground
They could take their toll on Dos Anjos.
Dos Anjos has a small cut in his Mouth
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
You can see Dos Anjos's blood making stains in the mat.
Ben Askren throws down elbows...
He's tearing up Dos Anjos's face with those brutal elbows! Dos Anjos needs to do something! The referee is threatening to stop it!
Dos Anjos has a small cut in his Left eye
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
Dos Anjos doesn't stop bleeding.
Askren works on the ground with his fingers over Dos Anjos's face
He seems to have encountered the eye! What a classless move!
Mario Yamasaki didn't see the foul!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
Rafael dos Anjos is a bloody mess!
Dos Anjos tries to stand up!
Askren doesn't allow him!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with one hook in
You can see Dos Anjos's blood making stains in the mat.
Askren has one hook in and is trying to get the second one! If he succeed things are goint to get very bad for Dos Anjos.
Nicely done! Askren now has two hooks in! The end may be near!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with two hooks in
Askren fires a barrage of punches at Dos Anjos's head!
This is bad! Askren is just pounding on Rafael dos Anjos's head like he's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
Dos Anjos's Left eye is bruised after the punishement he's received!
There is a small laceration on Rafael dos Anjos's Left eye
Dos Anjos seems a bit groggy... his movements are not very coordinated now.
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with two hooks in
Dos Anjos doesn't stop bleeding.
Rafael dos Anjos doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He can't do it because of Askren's moves.
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with two hooks in
Askren tenatively looks for a way to finish his opponent! This is a nightmare for Dos Anjos!
Askren has one of his arm over Rafael dos Anjos's shoulder and is ready for a RNC!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with two hooks in
Askren tenatively looks for a way to finish his opponent! This is a nightmare for Dos Anjos!
Askren has one of his arm over Rafael dos Anjos's shoulder and is ready for a RNC!
Askren is in rear mount over Dos Anjos with two hooks in
Ben Askren storms over Dos Anjos with a biblical punishment in the form of elbows!
Askren doesn't stop and viciously hits again and again Dos Anjos's face with his elbows!
That brutal impact left Dos Anjos laid out on the mat! Ben Askren's corner come in to congratulate him!
Winner is Ben Askren by KO (Elbows) at 4:56 Round 5
Statistics: Rafael dos Anjos
Punches 14/24 (58%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/2 (0%)
Takedowns 9/10 (90%)
GnP strikes 12/28 (43%)
Submissions 24/24 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 1156 s
Statistics: Ben Askren
Punches 12/24 (50%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 1/2 (50%)
Takedowns 6/7 (86%)
GnP strikes 75/156 (48%)
Submissions 1/1 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 1156 s
Good back and forth fight. Ben was kinda winning, then no one was winning, then RDA was definitely winning, then Ben was definitely winning, then Ben won.
Have 9 points in celebration of this monumental achievement!