Post by The Sandmen on Apr 22, 2013 16:29:18 GMT -5
People are cheering for this fighter. You can hear Rich Franklin chants all around the place!
Rich Franklin looks very relaxed.
Vitor Belfort looks very relaxed.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
The Phenom is not prefered by the MMA media to win tonight. He will have to do his best to score a win.
The referee of the bout is Josh Rosenthal.
=========================================
Round 1
=========================================
Franklin and The Phenom move forward as the bell signals the beginning of the fight!
Vitor Belfort seems fresh. He may still have a lot of gas in his tank.
Vitor Belfort is measuring Franklin with his jab.
Good accuracy on his part.
Pulverizing punch to Franklin's head!
Ouch, that had to hurt!
Franklin has a small cut in his Nose
The clock says 0:30 in the 1 round
Franklin throws a one-two combo then fakes a move to fire a big right hand on the chin!
The strikes hit home!
The clock says 0:40 in the 1 round
Franklin is holding Vitor Belfort's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Vitor Belfort loses balance and goes to the ground.
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
Rich Franklin looks to pass to mount...
Franklin slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Vitor Belfort.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Rich Franklin isolates Vitor Belfort's arm and neck looking for an arm triangle
Vitor Belfort is able to relieve the pressure on his neck and slip out of the hold.
The clock says 1:05 in the 1 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Franklin is one of those men capable of pounding you into oblivion!
Rich Franklin tries to better his position on the ground...
Franklin is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Franklin's side.
The clock says 1:25 in the 1 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Stand up! This is what Franklin's cornermen are shouting. Vitor Belfort is a submission master and he can finish the fight if you mess with him on the ground.
Vitor Belfort tries to roll to his side and trap Rich Franklin in his guard...
Vitor Belfort gets his hip out and moves to full guard.
The clock says 1:35 in the 1 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom launches a few weak punches
Those punches are hitting Franklin's ribs.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom is using some of his ground skills to escape from this...
He pushes Franklin's knee away and tries to roll! Nice move to get half guard!
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort tries to free his leg
Vitor Belfort uses some of his skill by jumping out of Franklin's guard. He moves quickly to side mount!
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Vitor Belfort looks to pass to mount...
Franklin creates space and scrambles back to his feet.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Rich Franklin tries to bring the fight to the ground
The Phenom won't budge, forcing Franklin to pull guard.
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Vitor Belfort uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to The Phenom's cheek from the guard.
Vitor Belfort uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Good looking punches from Vitor Belfort on the ground
deflected by Franklin.
The Phenom clumsily fails here and it's time for Rich Franklin to fight back!
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Vitor Belfort uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Vitor Belfort!
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom is a savvy submission specialist. It's an honor just to watch him work on the ground.
The Phenom measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Franklin blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Vitor Belfort tries to roll to his side and trap Rich Franklin in his guard...
Vitor Belfort gets his hip out and moves to full guard.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Deep breaths from Vitor Belfort who tries a hammer punch to Franklin's ribs.
That hit Franklin who moves on the ground in order to protect himself
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Franklin tries to open up Vitor Belfort's defense faking a few punches.
He is aggressively and repeatedly punching The Phenom in the side of the head
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Franklin fakes a few punches and after a brief struggle he catches Vitor Belfort's arm and tries an armbar!
The Phenom holds his own hand and with pure strength he breaks The Phenom's lock. He rolls over himself and launches over Rich Franklin.
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Vitor Belfort can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Vitor Belfort fakes some punches
then lands a big punch to Franklin's face!
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to The Phenom's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because The Phenom tries to cover his face,
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Vitor Belfort looks to mount Rich Franklin...
Rich Franklin takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort is looking to pass Rich Franklin's guard...
Vitor Belfort gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort tries to free his leg
Vitor Belfort uses some of his skill by jumping out of Franklin's guard. He moves quickly to side mount!
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
Josh Rosenthal halts the fight to stand up Rich Franklin. 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 Phenom moves forward looking for some action
Rich Franklin struggles a bit before breaking The Phenom's attemp of grappling
Josh Rosenthal tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.
I can't give the advantage to either fighter in that round.
=========================================
Round 2
=========================================
Franklin decides to launch some tentative punches
The Phenom launches a couple of jabs that are answered by Franklin with a stiff cross! Solid exchange!
The Phenom is holding Rich Franklin's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rich Franklin loses balance and goes to the ground.
That punishment by Vitor Belfort has left Franklin staggered! Vitor Belfort should try push forward now and finish this!
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to The Phenom's cheek from the guard.
Vitor Belfort uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Franklin misses a step and Vitor Belfort sees an opportunity to counter him!
Vitor Belfort looks to pass to mount...
The Phenom slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Rich Franklin.
Vitor Belfort is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin tries to roll to his side and trap Vitor Belfort in his guard...
Rich Franklin gets his hip out and moves to full guard.
The clock says 0:55 in the 2 round
Vitor Belfort is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Vitor Belfort aggressively and repeatedly punches Franklin.
He needs to do something soon or the referee will stop the fight!
Franklin's Mouth is bruised after the punishement he's received!
Franklin has a small cut in his Mouth
Vitor Belfort is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Vitor Belfort hovers above Franklin
Good punches to Franklin's body.
The clock says 1:15 in the 2 round
Vitor Belfort is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
Josh Rosenthal halts the fight to stand up Rich Franklin. 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 Mellon Arena (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) are cheering for the fighters.
The Phenom fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Rich Franklin didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
The Phenom is taking this opportunity to rest.
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to The Phenom's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because The Phenom tries to cover his face,
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin measures the resilience of The Phenom's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
The Phenom blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort tries to pass to half guard...
Rich Franklin can't prevent his opponent from passing. The Phenom looks to work from half guard.
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
The Phenom is taking this opportunity to rest.
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Vitor Belfort can't find an opening in his opponent's guard!
Poorly executed technique. Rich Franklin looks to counter!
Rich Franklin tries to close the guard.
Franklin put Vitor Belfort in closed guard.
Josh Rosenthal stands the fighters up due to a lack of activity.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Franklin is one of those men capable of pounding you into oblivion!
A shot seen throughout the arena!
Timely defense by The Phenom.
Franklin wants to take the fight to his advantage and tries to clinch.
Franklin moves forward and holds The Phenom
The clock says 2:50 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
The Phenom launches a few hard punches to Rich Franklin's ribs!
Rich Franklin's ribs shows the damage! Vitor Belfort is working his opponent ribs!
Hard blow to Franklin's mid-section, he seems hurt
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rich Franklin pushes away The Phenom trying to keep the fight at striking range
The Phenom doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Rich Franklin
The clock says 3:15 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
The Phenom takes a break to breathe while holding Rich Franklin.
Josh Rosenthal sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters.
The Phenom moves forward looking for some action
Vitor Belfort shows some wrestling skills as he put his opponent in a double overhook!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
The Phenom tries to take Rich Franklin down... Franklin stumbles backwards and Vitor Belfort launches a few punches...
Rich Franklin dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
The Phenom misses a step and Rich Franklin sees an opportunity to counter him!
Brilliant combination from Rich Franklin
The Phenom is showing some dodging skills avoiding that ones.
The Phenom wants to take the fight to his advantage and tries to clinch.
The Phenom moves forward and holds Franklin
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
The Phenom struggles and launches a few punches to Franklin's head
Those punches are hitting! Franklin covers his head!
Franklin's Mouth is beginning to swell
The fighters are clinching.
Franklin launches a few hard punches to Vitor Belfort's ribs!
The Phenom struggles and protects himself.
The referee intervenes to break the clinch.
Vitor Belfort fakes a punch and launches himself over Franklin!
Nice move by The Phenom who clinches and pushes Franklin against the cage
Rich Franklin tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
The Phenom is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Franklin tries to take Vitor Belfort down... The Phenom stumbles backwards and Rich Franklin launches a few punches...
Vitor Belfort dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
The Phenom cornermen are yelling for his man to escape from the ground as Franklin can finish a fight on the ground with some good pounding if you give him the chance.
Rich Franklin takes a few seconds to recover his breath...
Josh Rosenthal 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
=========================================
Both fighters circle around the center of the cage.
Franklin avoids a dangerous strike from The Phenom
and fends him off with feel-out punches.
Tremendous strikes from Franklin!
Some big punches are landing!
The Phenom's Chin is beginning to swell
The Phenom has a small cut in his Chin
As the fight continues it seems that Rich Franklin is taking the best of the fight.
Rich Franklin and The Phenom engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch.
The Phenom's Chin is bruised after the punishement he's received!
A bad move from Vitor Belfort
almost puts his head in the path of Franklin's kick.
Rich Franklin gets sloppy and Vitor Belfort tries to take advantage...
The Phenom grabs his opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground
Franklin struggles... Vitor Belfort is unable to take him down
Vitor Belfort is opening up on Franklin and raining down combinations!
Franklin doesn't look worried as he defends.
Vitor Belfort gets sloppy and Rich Franklin tries to take advantage...
The Phenom throws a lazy kick
Franklin dodges and fires an uppercut that almost puts him in to orbit!
The clock says 1:10 in the 3 round
Vitor Belfort leans forwards and tries to grapple with Franklin
The Phenom shows his clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
The fighters are clinching.
The Phenom struggles and launches a few punches to Franklin's head
Those punches are hitting! Franklin covers his head!
The clock says 1:30 in the 3 round
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
The Phenom tries to take Rich Franklin down... Franklin stumbles backwards and Vitor Belfort launches a few punches...
Rich Franklin dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
The clock says 1:40 in the 3 round
The Phenom feints and moves forward to hit with a hook
Franklin moves aside and dodges.
The Phenom decides to launch some tentative punches
Franklin launches a couple of jabs that are answered by The Phenom with a stiff cross! Solid exchange!
Franklin's Chin is beginning to swell
Franklin pushes Vitor Belfort and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath.
Vitor Belfort throws a combo
Rich Franklin ducks under and catches him with a counter straight! The Phenom swings again, only to get countered once more! The Phenom is looking bad here!
The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage.
The Phenom tries to grapple
He puts Franklin in a double underhook!
Franklin doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Vitor Belfort embrace and tries to move away...
Vitor Belfort pushes Franklin forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.
The fighters are clinching.
The Phenom tries to take Rich Franklin to the ground from the clinch...
Nicely done! Franklin is with his back on the ground now.
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to close his guard around The Phenom
He succeeds!
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Franklin measures the resilience of The Phenom's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in The Phenom's side.
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Not a desiderable position that Franklin is in now. Vitor Belfort is well knowed for his strong and relentless GnP.
The Phenom leans back...
Franklin eyes him warily.
The clock says 3:30 in the 3 round
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort launches a few punches to Franklin
Weak punches. He needs to improve his position!
The clock says 3:40 in the 3 round
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
The Phenom tries to improve his position on the ground as he sits on his knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Franklin leans and gets Vitor Belfort's arms as he brings him to the ground again.
The Phenom misses a step and Rich Franklin sees an opportunity to counter him!
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Vitor Belfort uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Vitor Belfort uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Rich Franklin gets sloppy and Vitor Belfort tries to take advantage...
The Phenom 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 Mellon Arena (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) is cheering him!
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin attempts to trap Vitor Belfort in his guard.
Rich Franklin manages to switch to half guard.
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
Franklin measures the resilience of The Phenom's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in The Phenom's side.
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin attempts to move to full guard
Rich Franklin manages to switch to full guard.
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
The Phenom works on the ground with his fingers over Franklin's face
Franklin shakes his head and continues fighting on the ground.
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to close his guard around The Phenom
He succeeds!
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Good looking punches from Vitor Belfort on the ground
deflected by Franklin.
Poorly executed technique. Rich Franklin looks to counter!
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Vitor Belfort!
The ref stops the action. The round is over.
The round is for The Phenom, who walks calmly to his corner.
=========================================
Round 4
=========================================
Vitor Belfort tries to bring the fight to the ground
Franklin won't budge, forcing The Phenom to pull guard.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
Franklin is in closed guard... The Phenom tries to roll on the ground!
Rich Franklin uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Poorly executed technique. Rich Franklin looks to counter!
Franklin throws a few hammer fists to the face of Vitor Belfort
Solid shots!
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
Franklin 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 Mellon Arena (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) is cheering him!
The clock says 0:45 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom tries to show some ground skills
Vitor Belfort put Franklin in half guard.
Rich Franklin is in half guard over The Phenom
Vitor Belfort launches a few punches to Franklin's cheek from the guard.
Rich Franklin uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Rich Franklin is in half guard over The Phenom
Vitor Belfort attempts to move to full guard
Vitor Belfort manages to switch to full guard.
The clock says 1:10 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
The Phenom tries to close his guard around Franklin
He succeeds!
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
The Phenom breaths deeply while on the ground
Josh Rosenthal has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Vitor Belfort attempts to cut off Franklin with punches
Franklin reels from the strikes.
Vitor Belfort wants this win. He unleashes a kick.
His opponent is elsewhere, looking to counter...
Franklin is trying to counter now!
Franklin fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
The Phenom sprawls and remains on his feet.
Vitor Belfort has found an opening in the defense of Franklin, launching a big uppercut
Rich Franklin is fast enouigh to dodge that uppercut.
Franklin moves backwards and Vitor Belfort is asking him if he came today for fighting or running.
Rich Franklin leans forwards and tries to grapple with The Phenom
Franklin shows his clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
The clock says 2:05 in the 4 round
The fighters are clinching.
Franklin takes a break to breathe while holding Vitor Belfort.
Josh Rosenthal sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters.
Rich Franklin launches a couples of jabs and then a big hook!
The Phenom blocks the jabs but the last punch hits hard on Vitor Belfort's cheek! The Phenom stumbles and the falls to the mat!
There is a small laceration on Vitor Belfort's Left cheek
Franklin is standing while The Phenom is on the ground on his back
Franklin decides to go after his opponent and jumps inside The Phenom's guard.
The Phenom did not see that coming! Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom now.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
The Phenom measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Franklin blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Poorly executed technique. Rich Franklin looks to counter!
Franklin leans back...
He clobbers Vitor Belfort's face with a huge punch! Ouch!
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
The Phenom measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Franklin blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
Rich Franklin aggressively and repeatedly punches The Phenom.
He needs to do something soon or the referee will stop the fight!
The clock says 3:20 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
Vitor Belfort 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 Franklin's moves.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
Vitor Belfort launches a few punches to Franklin's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Franklin tries to cover his face,
The clock says 3:40 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
The Phenom measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Franklin blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Vitor Belfort gets sloppy and Rich Franklin tries to take advantage...
Rich Franklin hovers above The Phenom
Vitor Belfort stops him from throwing strikes.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
Franklin is looking to end this fight with strikes
He starts to pound away at Vitor Belfort, who is barely covering up!
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
The Phenom breaths deeply while on the ground
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
Rich Franklin tries to pass to half guard...
Vitor Belfort can't prevent his opponent from passing. Franklin looks to work from half guard.
The clock says 4:25 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in half guard over The Phenom
Rich Franklin tries to pass Vitor Belfort's guard...
Rich Franklin manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.
The clock says 4:35 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
Franklin fires a barrage of punches at The Phenom's head!
This is bad! Franklin is just pounding on Vitor Belfort's head like he's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
Vitor Belfort attempts to trap Rich Franklin in his guard.
Vitor Belfort manages to switch to full guard.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
Franklin is in closed guard... The Phenom tries to roll on the ground!
Rich Franklin uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Franklin tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Rich Franklin wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Franklin drills Vitor Belfort's face with a huge right hand! What an impact!
The Phenom's Nose is beginning to swell
The ref stops the action. The round is over.
The round is for Franklin, who walks calmly to his corner.
=========================================
Round 5
=========================================
A furious flurry of punches from Vitor Belfort
just misses Franklin.
Vitor Belfort is doing his best Floyd Mayweather impression by not engaging.
Tremendous strikes from Franklin!
Some big punches are landing!
Franklin throws a one-two combo then fakes a move to fire a big right hand on the chin!
The strikes hit home!
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Rich Franklin can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Rich Franklin shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Vitor Belfort is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Franklin into his guard.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
Franklin is in closed guard... The Phenom tries to roll on the ground!
Rich Franklin uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
Rich Franklin tries to better his position on the ground...
Franklin breaks the closed guard of Vitor Belfort and moves to half guard
The clock says 1:30 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom tries to stand up!
Franklin doesn't allow him!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
Vitor Belfort 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 Franklin's moves.
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
Franklin tries to move to full mount!
Nice move. He is in full mount now.
The clock says 2:00 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Rich Franklin tries to open The Phenom's guard...
Great bombs from the top by Rich Franklin. The Phenom is unable to cover himself now!
The Phenom's Forehead is beginning to swell
The clock says 2:10 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Vitor Belfort 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 Franklin's moves.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Vitor Belfort tries to roll to his side and trap Rich Franklin in his guard...
Rich Franklin rolls him over and takes his back!
The clock says 2:35 in the 5 round
Franklin is in rear mount over The Phenom
The Phenom has Franklin controlling his back while on the ground. He tries to roll and find an escape...
Franklin is unable to move under The Phenom control.
Poorly executed technique. Rich Franklin looks to counter!
Rich Franklin wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Franklin drills Vitor Belfort's face with a huge right hand! What an impact!
The Phenom has a small cut in his Nose
Franklin is in rear mount over The Phenom
Franklin tries to get a hook in!
Things get worse for The Phenom! Franklin has one hook in and keeps working!
Franklin is in rear mount over The Phenom with one hook in
You can see The Phenom's blood making stains in the mat.
Rich Franklin isolates an arm looking for an armbar from the back...
Punishing hold!
Franklin throws his leg over and Vitor Belfort is in serious trouble! Rich Franklin extends his hips and Vitor Belfort is forced to tapout to the crafty armbar!
Winner is Rich Franklin by Submission (Armbar) at 3:10 Round 5
Statistics: Rich Franklin
Punches 24/31 (77%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/7 (0%)
Takedowns 2/4 (50%)
GnP strikes 35/53 (66%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 2/2 (100%)
Time on the ground 807 s
Statistics: Vitor Belfort
Punches 13/26 (50%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 7/17 (41%)
Takedowns 3/5 (60%)
GnP strikes 18/41 (44%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 3/3 (100%)
Time on the ground 819 s
A Great fight. Vitor took the early rounds with effective and vicious GnP, then Rich came back in later rounds with stand up and GnP of his own. Both fighting, both doing damage, as i said, good fight. I dig. If this went to decision, it might have been a nightmare for judges. glad it ended.
Rich Franklin looks very relaxed.
Vitor Belfort looks very relaxed.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
The Phenom is not prefered by the MMA media to win tonight. He will have to do his best to score a win.
The referee of the bout is Josh Rosenthal.
=========================================
Round 1
=========================================
Franklin and The Phenom move forward as the bell signals the beginning of the fight!
Vitor Belfort seems fresh. He may still have a lot of gas in his tank.
Vitor Belfort is measuring Franklin with his jab.
Good accuracy on his part.
Pulverizing punch to Franklin's head!
Ouch, that had to hurt!
Franklin has a small cut in his Nose
The clock says 0:30 in the 1 round
Franklin throws a one-two combo then fakes a move to fire a big right hand on the chin!
The strikes hit home!
The clock says 0:40 in the 1 round
Franklin is holding Vitor Belfort's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Vitor Belfort loses balance and goes to the ground.
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
Rich Franklin looks to pass to mount...
Franklin slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Vitor Belfort.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Rich Franklin isolates Vitor Belfort's arm and neck looking for an arm triangle
Vitor Belfort is able to relieve the pressure on his neck and slip out of the hold.
The clock says 1:05 in the 1 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Franklin is one of those men capable of pounding you into oblivion!
Rich Franklin tries to better his position on the ground...
Franklin is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Franklin's side.
The clock says 1:25 in the 1 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Stand up! This is what Franklin's cornermen are shouting. Vitor Belfort is a submission master and he can finish the fight if you mess with him on the ground.
Vitor Belfort tries to roll to his side and trap Rich Franklin in his guard...
Vitor Belfort gets his hip out and moves to full guard.
The clock says 1:35 in the 1 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom launches a few weak punches
Those punches are hitting Franklin's ribs.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom is using some of his ground skills to escape from this...
He pushes Franklin's knee away and tries to roll! Nice move to get half guard!
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort tries to free his leg
Vitor Belfort uses some of his skill by jumping out of Franklin's guard. He moves quickly to side mount!
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Vitor Belfort looks to pass to mount...
Franklin creates space and scrambles back to his feet.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Rich Franklin tries to bring the fight to the ground
The Phenom won't budge, forcing Franklin to pull guard.
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Vitor Belfort uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to The Phenom's cheek from the guard.
Vitor Belfort uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Good looking punches from Vitor Belfort on the ground
deflected by Franklin.
The Phenom clumsily fails here and it's time for Rich Franklin to fight back!
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Vitor Belfort uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Vitor Belfort!
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom is a savvy submission specialist. It's an honor just to watch him work on the ground.
The Phenom measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Franklin blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Vitor Belfort tries to roll to his side and trap Rich Franklin in his guard...
Vitor Belfort gets his hip out and moves to full guard.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Deep breaths from Vitor Belfort who tries a hammer punch to Franklin's ribs.
That hit Franklin who moves on the ground in order to protect himself
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Franklin tries to open up Vitor Belfort's defense faking a few punches.
He is aggressively and repeatedly punching The Phenom in the side of the head
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Franklin fakes a few punches and after a brief struggle he catches Vitor Belfort's arm and tries an armbar!
The Phenom holds his own hand and with pure strength he breaks The Phenom's lock. He rolls over himself and launches over Rich Franklin.
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Vitor Belfort can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Vitor Belfort fakes some punches
then lands a big punch to Franklin's face!
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to The Phenom's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because The Phenom tries to cover his face,
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Vitor Belfort looks to mount Rich Franklin...
Rich Franklin takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort is looking to pass Rich Franklin's guard...
Vitor Belfort gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort tries to free his leg
Vitor Belfort uses some of his skill by jumping out of Franklin's guard. He moves quickly to side mount!
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
Josh Rosenthal halts the fight to stand up Rich Franklin. 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 Phenom moves forward looking for some action
Rich Franklin struggles a bit before breaking The Phenom's attemp of grappling
Josh Rosenthal tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.
I can't give the advantage to either fighter in that round.
=========================================
Round 2
=========================================
Franklin decides to launch some tentative punches
The Phenom launches a couple of jabs that are answered by Franklin with a stiff cross! Solid exchange!
The Phenom is holding Rich Franklin's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Rich Franklin loses balance and goes to the ground.
That punishment by Vitor Belfort has left Franklin staggered! Vitor Belfort should try push forward now and finish this!
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to The Phenom's cheek from the guard.
Vitor Belfort uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Franklin misses a step and Vitor Belfort sees an opportunity to counter him!
Vitor Belfort looks to pass to mount...
The Phenom slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Rich Franklin.
Vitor Belfort is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin tries to roll to his side and trap Vitor Belfort in his guard...
Rich Franklin gets his hip out and moves to full guard.
The clock says 0:55 in the 2 round
Vitor Belfort is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Vitor Belfort aggressively and repeatedly punches Franklin.
He needs to do something soon or the referee will stop the fight!
Franklin's Mouth is bruised after the punishement he's received!
Franklin has a small cut in his Mouth
Vitor Belfort is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Vitor Belfort hovers above Franklin
Good punches to Franklin's body.
The clock says 1:15 in the 2 round
Vitor Belfort is in full mount over Rich Franklin
Franklin tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
Josh Rosenthal halts the fight to stand up Rich Franklin. 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 Mellon Arena (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) are cheering for the fighters.
The Phenom fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Rich Franklin didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
The Phenom is taking this opportunity to rest.
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin launches a few punches to The Phenom's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because The Phenom tries to cover his face,
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin measures the resilience of The Phenom's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
The Phenom blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort tries to pass to half guard...
Rich Franklin can't prevent his opponent from passing. The Phenom looks to work from half guard.
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
The Phenom is taking this opportunity to rest.
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Vitor Belfort can't find an opening in his opponent's guard!
Poorly executed technique. Rich Franklin looks to counter!
Rich Franklin tries to close the guard.
Franklin put Vitor Belfort in closed guard.
Josh Rosenthal stands the fighters up due to a lack of activity.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Franklin is one of those men capable of pounding you into oblivion!
A shot seen throughout the arena!
Timely defense by The Phenom.
Franklin wants to take the fight to his advantage and tries to clinch.
Franklin moves forward and holds The Phenom
The clock says 2:50 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
The Phenom launches a few hard punches to Rich Franklin's ribs!
Rich Franklin's ribs shows the damage! Vitor Belfort is working his opponent ribs!
Hard blow to Franklin's mid-section, he seems hurt
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rich Franklin pushes away The Phenom trying to keep the fight at striking range
The Phenom doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Rich Franklin
The clock says 3:15 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
The Phenom takes a break to breathe while holding Rich Franklin.
Josh Rosenthal sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters.
The Phenom moves forward looking for some action
Vitor Belfort shows some wrestling skills as he put his opponent in a double overhook!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
The Phenom tries to take Rich Franklin down... Franklin stumbles backwards and Vitor Belfort launches a few punches...
Rich Franklin dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
The Phenom misses a step and Rich Franklin sees an opportunity to counter him!
Brilliant combination from Rich Franklin
The Phenom is showing some dodging skills avoiding that ones.
The Phenom wants to take the fight to his advantage and tries to clinch.
The Phenom moves forward and holds Franklin
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
The Phenom struggles and launches a few punches to Franklin's head
Those punches are hitting! Franklin covers his head!
Franklin's Mouth is beginning to swell
The fighters are clinching.
Franklin launches a few hard punches to Vitor Belfort's ribs!
The Phenom struggles and protects himself.
The referee intervenes to break the clinch.
Vitor Belfort fakes a punch and launches himself over Franklin!
Nice move by The Phenom who clinches and pushes Franklin against the cage
Rich Franklin tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
The Phenom is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Franklin tries to take Vitor Belfort down... The Phenom stumbles backwards and Rich Franklin launches a few punches...
Vitor Belfort dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
The Phenom cornermen are yelling for his man to escape from the ground as Franklin can finish a fight on the ground with some good pounding if you give him the chance.
Rich Franklin takes a few seconds to recover his breath...
Josh Rosenthal 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
=========================================
Both fighters circle around the center of the cage.
Franklin avoids a dangerous strike from The Phenom
and fends him off with feel-out punches.
Tremendous strikes from Franklin!
Some big punches are landing!
The Phenom's Chin is beginning to swell
The Phenom has a small cut in his Chin
As the fight continues it seems that Rich Franklin is taking the best of the fight.
Rich Franklin and The Phenom engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch.
The Phenom's Chin is bruised after the punishement he's received!
A bad move from Vitor Belfort
almost puts his head in the path of Franklin's kick.
Rich Franklin gets sloppy and Vitor Belfort tries to take advantage...
The Phenom grabs his opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground
Franklin struggles... Vitor Belfort is unable to take him down
Vitor Belfort is opening up on Franklin and raining down combinations!
Franklin doesn't look worried as he defends.
Vitor Belfort gets sloppy and Rich Franklin tries to take advantage...
The Phenom throws a lazy kick
Franklin dodges and fires an uppercut that almost puts him in to orbit!
The clock says 1:10 in the 3 round
Vitor Belfort leans forwards and tries to grapple with Franklin
The Phenom shows his clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
The fighters are clinching.
The Phenom struggles and launches a few punches to Franklin's head
Those punches are hitting! Franklin covers his head!
The clock says 1:30 in the 3 round
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
The Phenom tries to take Rich Franklin down... Franklin stumbles backwards and Vitor Belfort launches a few punches...
Rich Franklin dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
The clock says 1:40 in the 3 round
The Phenom feints and moves forward to hit with a hook
Franklin moves aside and dodges.
The Phenom decides to launch some tentative punches
Franklin launches a couple of jabs that are answered by The Phenom with a stiff cross! Solid exchange!
Franklin's Chin is beginning to swell
Franklin pushes Vitor Belfort and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath.
Vitor Belfort throws a combo
Rich Franklin ducks under and catches him with a counter straight! The Phenom swings again, only to get countered once more! The Phenom is looking bad here!
The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage.
The Phenom tries to grapple
He puts Franklin in a double underhook!
Franklin doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Vitor Belfort embrace and tries to move away...
Vitor Belfort pushes Franklin forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.
The fighters are clinching.
The Phenom tries to take Rich Franklin to the ground from the clinch...
Nicely done! Franklin is with his back on the ground now.
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to close his guard around The Phenom
He succeeds!
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Franklin measures the resilience of The Phenom's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in The Phenom's side.
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Not a desiderable position that Franklin is in now. Vitor Belfort is well knowed for his strong and relentless GnP.
The Phenom leans back...
Franklin eyes him warily.
The clock says 3:30 in the 3 round
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Vitor Belfort launches a few punches to Franklin
Weak punches. He needs to improve his position!
The clock says 3:40 in the 3 round
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
The Phenom tries to improve his position on the ground as he sits on his knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Franklin leans and gets Vitor Belfort's arms as he brings him to the ground again.
The Phenom misses a step and Rich Franklin sees an opportunity to counter him!
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Vitor Belfort uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Vitor Belfort uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Rich Franklin gets sloppy and Vitor Belfort tries to take advantage...
The Phenom 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 Mellon Arena (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) is cheering him!
Vitor Belfort is in side mount over Rich Franklin
Rich Franklin attempts to trap Vitor Belfort in his guard.
Rich Franklin manages to switch to half guard.
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
Franklin measures the resilience of The Phenom's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in The Phenom's side.
Vitor Belfort is in half guard over Franklin
Rich Franklin attempts to move to full guard
Rich Franklin manages to switch to full guard.
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
The Phenom works on the ground with his fingers over Franklin's face
Franklin shakes his head and continues fighting on the ground.
Vitor Belfort is in open guard over Franklin
Franklin tries to close his guard around The Phenom
He succeeds!
Vitor Belfort is in closed guard over Franklin
Good looking punches from Vitor Belfort on the ground
deflected by Franklin.
Poorly executed technique. Rich Franklin looks to counter!
The Phenom is in closed guard... Franklin tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Vitor Belfort!
The ref stops the action. The round is over.
The round is for The Phenom, who walks calmly to his corner.
=========================================
Round 4
=========================================
Vitor Belfort tries to bring the fight to the ground
Franklin won't budge, forcing The Phenom to pull guard.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
Franklin is in closed guard... The Phenom tries to roll on the ground!
Rich Franklin uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Poorly executed technique. Rich Franklin looks to counter!
Franklin throws a few hammer fists to the face of Vitor Belfort
Solid shots!
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
Franklin 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 Mellon Arena (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) is cheering him!
The clock says 0:45 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom tries to show some ground skills
Vitor Belfort put Franklin in half guard.
Rich Franklin is in half guard over The Phenom
Vitor Belfort launches a few punches to Franklin's cheek from the guard.
Rich Franklin uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Rich Franklin is in half guard over The Phenom
Vitor Belfort attempts to move to full guard
Vitor Belfort manages to switch to full guard.
The clock says 1:10 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
The Phenom tries to close his guard around Franklin
He succeeds!
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
The Phenom breaths deeply while on the ground
Josh Rosenthal has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Vitor Belfort attempts to cut off Franklin with punches
Franklin reels from the strikes.
Vitor Belfort wants this win. He unleashes a kick.
His opponent is elsewhere, looking to counter...
Franklin is trying to counter now!
Franklin fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
The Phenom sprawls and remains on his feet.
Vitor Belfort has found an opening in the defense of Franklin, launching a big uppercut
Rich Franklin is fast enouigh to dodge that uppercut.
Franklin moves backwards and Vitor Belfort is asking him if he came today for fighting or running.
Rich Franklin leans forwards and tries to grapple with The Phenom
Franklin shows his clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
The clock says 2:05 in the 4 round
The fighters are clinching.
Franklin takes a break to breathe while holding Vitor Belfort.
Josh Rosenthal sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters.
Rich Franklin launches a couples of jabs and then a big hook!
The Phenom blocks the jabs but the last punch hits hard on Vitor Belfort's cheek! The Phenom stumbles and the falls to the mat!
There is a small laceration on Vitor Belfort's Left cheek
Franklin is standing while The Phenom is on the ground on his back
Franklin decides to go after his opponent and jumps inside The Phenom's guard.
The Phenom did not see that coming! Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom now.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
The Phenom measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Franklin blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Poorly executed technique. Rich Franklin looks to counter!
Franklin leans back...
He clobbers Vitor Belfort's face with a huge punch! Ouch!
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
The Phenom measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Franklin blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
Rich Franklin aggressively and repeatedly punches The Phenom.
He needs to do something soon or the referee will stop the fight!
The clock says 3:20 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
Vitor Belfort 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 Franklin's moves.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
Vitor Belfort launches a few punches to Franklin's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Franklin tries to cover his face,
The clock says 3:40 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
The Phenom measures the resilience of Franklin's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Franklin blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Vitor Belfort gets sloppy and Rich Franklin tries to take advantage...
Rich Franklin hovers above The Phenom
Vitor Belfort stops him from throwing strikes.
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
Franklin is looking to end this fight with strikes
He starts to pound away at Vitor Belfort, who is barely covering up!
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
The Phenom breaths deeply while on the ground
Rich Franklin is in open guard over The Phenom
Rich Franklin tries to pass to half guard...
Vitor Belfort can't prevent his opponent from passing. Franklin looks to work from half guard.
The clock says 4:25 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in half guard over The Phenom
Rich Franklin tries to pass Vitor Belfort's guard...
Rich Franklin manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.
The clock says 4:35 in the 4 round
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
Franklin fires a barrage of punches at The Phenom's head!
This is bad! Franklin is just pounding on Vitor Belfort's head like he's a training dummy! The referee looks on anxiously!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
Vitor Belfort attempts to trap Rich Franklin in his guard.
Vitor Belfort manages to switch to full guard.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
Franklin is in closed guard... The Phenom tries to roll on the ground!
Rich Franklin uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Franklin tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Rich Franklin wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Franklin drills Vitor Belfort's face with a huge right hand! What an impact!
The Phenom's Nose is beginning to swell
The ref stops the action. The round is over.
The round is for Franklin, who walks calmly to his corner.
=========================================
Round 5
=========================================
A furious flurry of punches from Vitor Belfort
just misses Franklin.
Vitor Belfort is doing his best Floyd Mayweather impression by not engaging.
Tremendous strikes from Franklin!
Some big punches are landing!
Franklin throws a one-two combo then fakes a move to fire a big right hand on the chin!
The strikes hit home!
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Rich Franklin can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Rich Franklin shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Vitor Belfort is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Franklin into his guard.
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
Franklin is in closed guard... The Phenom tries to roll on the ground!
Rich Franklin uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Rich Franklin is in closed guard over The Phenom
Rich Franklin tries to better his position on the ground...
Franklin breaks the closed guard of Vitor Belfort and moves to half guard
The clock says 1:30 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
The Phenom tries to stand up!
Franklin doesn't allow him!
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
Vitor Belfort 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 Franklin's moves.
Rich Franklin is in side mount over Vitor Belfort
Franklin tries to move to full mount!
Nice move. He is in full mount now.
The clock says 2:00 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Rich Franklin tries to open The Phenom's guard...
Great bombs from the top by Rich Franklin. The Phenom is unable to cover himself now!
The Phenom's Forehead is beginning to swell
The clock says 2:10 in the 5 round
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Vitor Belfort 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 Franklin's moves.
Rich Franklin is in full mount over Vitor Belfort
Vitor Belfort tries to roll to his side and trap Rich Franklin in his guard...
Rich Franklin rolls him over and takes his back!
The clock says 2:35 in the 5 round
Franklin is in rear mount over The Phenom
The Phenom has Franklin controlling his back while on the ground. He tries to roll and find an escape...
Franklin is unable to move under The Phenom control.
Poorly executed technique. Rich Franklin looks to counter!
Rich Franklin wants to finish his opponent on the ground
Franklin drills Vitor Belfort's face with a huge right hand! What an impact!
The Phenom has a small cut in his Nose
Franklin is in rear mount over The Phenom
Franklin tries to get a hook in!
Things get worse for The Phenom! Franklin has one hook in and keeps working!
Franklin is in rear mount over The Phenom with one hook in
You can see The Phenom's blood making stains in the mat.
Rich Franklin isolates an arm looking for an armbar from the back...
Punishing hold!
Franklin throws his leg over and Vitor Belfort is in serious trouble! Rich Franklin extends his hips and Vitor Belfort is forced to tapout to the crafty armbar!
Winner is Rich Franklin by Submission (Armbar) at 3:10 Round 5
Statistics: Rich Franklin
Punches 24/31 (77%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 0/7 (0%)
Takedowns 2/4 (50%)
GnP strikes 35/53 (66%)
Submissions 3/3 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 2/2 (100%)
Time on the ground 807 s
Statistics: Vitor Belfort
Punches 13/26 (50%)
Kicks 0/1 (0%)
Clinch strikes 7/17 (41%)
Takedowns 3/5 (60%)
GnP strikes 18/41 (44%)
Submissions 0/0 (0%)
Clinch Attempts 3/3 (100%)
Time on the ground 819 s
A Great fight. Vitor took the early rounds with effective and vicious GnP, then Rich came back in later rounds with stand up and GnP of his own. Both fighting, both doing damage, as i said, good fight. I dig. If this went to decision, it might have been a nightmare for judges. glad it ended.
Have 9 points in celebration of this monumental achievement!