Post by The Sandmen on Sept 29, 2013 20:26:20 GMT -5
Dominick Cruz looks very relaxed.
Diego Sanchez glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
The bets gives an equal chance to both fighters to score the win today.
The referee of the bout is Steve Mazzagatti.
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Round 1
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The fight gets underway.
The clock says 0:10 in the 1 round
Cruz is one of those men capable of pounding you into oblivion!
Dominick Cruz throws an uppercut
Diego slips it.
A solid combination from Dominick Cruz
mostly hits air.
Diego is trying to counter now!
Bone shattering straight right hand from Diego Sanchez!
Cruz is going to have a big headache after that blow!
Cruz has a small cut in his Left cheek
Cruz launches a furious low kick!
Diego Sanchez blocks
Nice punches from Diego Sanchez.
Cruz staggers backwards. Diego wants to finish this and continues launching bombs!
Quick hook by Diego Sanchez
Good shot! Cruz has reasons to be worried.
Diego Sanchez moves forward looking for some grappling action
Diego has his opponent in a text book double collar thai clinch!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Dominick Cruz tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
Cruz circles out and slips free of Diego Sanchez's grip. Nice job of getting out of that position.
Quick hook by Dominick Cruz
Good shot! Diego has reasons to be worried.
Dominick Cruz fakes a punch and launches himself over Diego Sanchez
Diego counters with a few fake punches and then backpedals
Dominick Cruz and Diego engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch.
Dominick Cruz moves forward looking for some grappling action
Diego pushes his opponent and keep the fight at striking range
The clock says 2:05 in the 1 round
Quick hook by Dominick Cruz
glances off Diego's arms.
Dominick Cruz gets sloppy and Diego Sanchez tries to take advantage...
Diego throws a hook
that hits its mark.
The clock says 2:15 in the 1 round
Diego Sanchez moves forward looking for some grappling action
Diego has his opponent in a text book double collar thai clinch!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Sick uppercut from the clinch by Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is agile enough to avoid that one! Lucky you Cruz! It would have finished this fight.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Diego Sanchez was tooling Dominick Cruz for the whole fight. I don't know if it's because Dominick Cruz lack of fighting spirit or just of skill.
Diego Sanchez postures up and launches another series of punches!
A lot of them are hitting Cruz hard, who may be wondering how to scape from this!
Cruz doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Diego Sanchez embrace and tries to move away...
Diego Sanchez pushes Cruz forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Cruz takes a break to breathe while holding Diego Sanchez.
Steve Mazzagatti sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters.
Dominick Cruz goes with a looping right hand while Diego Sanchez jumps back and jabs
Cruz only hits air and the subsequent exchange is fruitless.
Diego Sanchez shoots for a double leg takedown!
Dominick Cruz sprawls and manages to stay on his feet.
Cruz is trying to counter now!
Dominick Cruz locks up a guillotine with an arm in...
Diego Sanchez brings Dominick Cruz down to the ground and pulls his head out.
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego tries to escape from the full mount...
Diego struggles and pushes his opponent maybe a bit anxiously
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
The fight was awfully one sided. Matchmakers should take this into account for future fights.
Cruz tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Dominick Cruz controls the situation despite Diego Sanchez efforts for escaping from the full mount.
The clock says 3:45 in the 1 round
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego measures the resilience of Cruz's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Cruz's side.
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Diego's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Steve Mazzagatti knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Dominick Cruz uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
The clock says 4:20 in the 1 round
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Cruz tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Dominick Cruz controls the situation despite Diego Sanchez efforts for escaping from the full mount.
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Dominick Cruz uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Diego Sanchez gets sloppy and Dominick Cruz tries to take advantage...
Diego tries to escape from the full mount...
Dominick Cruz is not caught off guard and moves to side mount to keep his superior position.
The clock says 4:40 in the 1 round
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
Dominick Cruz looks to mount Diego Sanchez...
Diego Sanchez takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Cruz moves on the ground..
He gets half guard.
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego reaches under and rolls for a kneebar!
Cruz blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard.
Steve Mazzagatti separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
I can't give the advantage to either fighter in that round.
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Round 2
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Diego tries to close an armbar from the bottom!
Cruz knows what was coming and counters the lock.
The clock says 0:20 in the 2 round
Quick hook by Dominick Cruz
Good shot! Diego has reasons to be worried.
The fight was awfully one sided. Matchmakers should take this into account for future fights.
Diego Sanchez is opening up on Cruz and raining down combinations!
Cruz's corner looks worried!
Cruz has a small cut in his Left eye
Dominick Cruz fakes a punch and launches himself over Diego Sanchez
Diego counters with a few fake punches and then backpedals
Dominick Cruz attempts a sweep single...
Dominick Cruz catches Diego Sanchez's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Cruz.
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Cruz tries to cover his face,
The clock says 1:10 in the 2 round
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Dominick Cruz tries to pass Diego Sanchez's guard...
Dominick Cruz manages to get his leg free and moves to half guard.
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Dominick Cruz seems fresh. He may still have a lot of gas in his tank.
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Diego uses his forearms to block the impact!
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego Sanchez attempts to move to full guard
Diego Sanchez manages to switch to full guard.
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Diego measures the resilience of Cruz's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Cruz blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Diego Sanchez gets sloppy and Dominick Cruz tries to take advantage...
Dominick Cruz looks to posture up and open Diego Sanchez's guard...
Dominick Cruz forces Diego Sanchez to open his guard.
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Diego tries to close his guard around Cruz
He is not able to do it
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Diego tries to close his guard around Cruz
He succeeds!
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Cruz gets a good position on the ground. ..
Diego holds Dominick Cruz arms and counters his opponent punches.
Cruz misses a step and Diego Sanchez sees an opportunity to counter him!
Diego Sanchez sits up and gets an arm around Cruz's neck!
Cruz pushes Diego Sanchez back to the ground.
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Cruz tries to escape from closed guard...
Cruz struggles to liberate his leg and jumps to half guard!
The clock says 2:30 in the 2 round
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Dominick Cruz launches a few punches to Diego
Diego covers himself well and then rolls on the ground. Great reversal!
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.
Diego fires low kicks
that fail to land.
Bone shattering straight right hand from Dominick Cruz!
Diego is going to have a big headache after that blow!
Diego has a small cut in his Left cheek
Diego Sanchez leans forwards and tries to grapple with Cruz
Diego shows his clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
The fighters are clinching.
Cruz grapple with Diego Sanchez and tries a Inner leg Sweep
Diego Sanchez managed to maintain his balances and move away from Cruz
The clock says 3:25 in the 2 round
Dominick Cruz goes with a looping right hand while Diego Sanchez jumps back and jabs
Diego seems staggered and Dominick Cruz runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses.
Diego jumps over his opponent and tries to grapple
Diego Sanchez pushes his opponent against the fence in a plum position
Cruz doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Diego Sanchez embrace and tries to move away...
Nice move from Cruz who put distance between them
Several good body shots
land on Diego.
Diego wants to close the range and tries to grapple...
Nice move. He shoves himself over his opponent and secure a single collar tie.
Cruz doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Diego Sanchez embrace and tries to move away...
Diego Sanchez pushes Cruz forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.
The clock says 4:05 in the 2 round
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Dominick Cruz's corner is turning out to be his worst enemy! Diego is throwing a flurry of punches!
Dominick Cruz just can't get away!
Cruz's Right cheek is beginning to swell
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Diego takes a break to breathe while holding Dominick Cruz.
Steve Mazzagatti sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters.
Middle kick from Diego.
The kick just misses.
Cruz tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Dominick Cruz fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut
it lands on Diego's chin
Bone shattering straight right hand from Dominick Cruz!
Diego is going to have a big headache after that blow!
The clock says 4:45 in the 2 round
Not a desiderable position that Diego is in now. Dominick Cruz is well knowed for his strong and relentless GnP.
Cruz pushes Diego Sanchez and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath.
Diego is holding Dominick Cruz's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Dominick Cruz shows great balance while pushing away Diego Sanchez
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
That was an even round for the most part.
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Round 3
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Tremendous strikes from Diego!
Cruz blocks with confidence
Cruz tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Diego Sanchez paws at Cruz.
Cruz answers with solid punches!
Diego Sanchez goes with a looping right hand while Dominick Cruz jumps back and jabs
That one hits but Cruz seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange here.
Diego Sanchez tries a middle kick
Dominick Cruz blocks and steps away.
Dominick Cruz tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Diego is unable to remain on his feet and falls to the ground
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Diego uses his forearms to block the impact!
Diego is trying to counter now!
Diego throws his legs up in a triangle attempt!
Dominick Cruz realizes the danger and stands up to avoid the attack.
Steve Mazzagatti halts the fight to stand up Dominick Cruz. 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.
Low kick by Diego Sanchez to maintain his distance.
That hits Dominick Cruz's ankle
Cruz hyper-extended his leg
The clock says 1:10 in the 3 round
Cruz wants to close the range and tries to grapple...
Diego doesn't want anything like this as he moves backwards
Diego moves backwards and Dominick Cruz is asking him if he came today for fighting or running.
The clock says 1:30 in the 3 round
Inside leg kick from Cruz
that goes awry.
Diego Sanchez and Cruz engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Diego Sanchez is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows.
Diego is holding Dominick Cruz's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Dominick Cruz loses balance and goes to the ground.
Diego Sanchez is in side mount over Dominick Cruz
Diego Sanchez looks to pass to mount...
Diego slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Dominick Cruz.
Diego Sanchez is in full mount over Dominick Cruz
Diego Sanchez throws the leg over and rolls it over into an armbar!
Cruz breaks the lock showing some skills...
Cruz is trying to counter now!
Dominick Cruz tries to roll to his side and trap Diego Sanchez in his guard...
Diego Sanchez keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Diego Sanchez is in full mount over Dominick Cruz
Diego Sanchez tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top
Cruz is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt
Poorly executed technique. Dominick Cruz looks to counter!
Cruz is using some of his ground skills to escape from this...
He pushes Diego's knee away and tries to roll! Nice move to get half guard!
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego measures the resilience of Cruz's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Cruz's side.
Hard blow to Cruz's mid-section, he seems hurt
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego Sanchez tries to close the guard.
Nothing from this effort.
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego Sanchez tries to close the guard.
Nothing from this effort.
Diego misses a step and Dominick Cruz sees an opportunity to counter him!
Cruz launches a few fake punches and tries to escape!
Diego is covering himself! Cruz tries to force the situation and Diego clumsily gives his back!
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego
Cruz tries to get a hook in!
Things get worse for Diego! Cruz has one hook in and keeps working!
The clock says 3:00 in the 3 round
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Diego uses his forearms to block the impact!
The clock says 3:10 in the 3 round
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Cruz positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
One, two, three! Diego's being punished here!
Diego's Chin is bruised after the punishement he's received!
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Cruz tries to open up Diego Sanchez's defense faking a few punches.
He is aggressively and repeatedly punching Diego in the side of the head
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Cruz positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
Diego's attempts to cover himself and blocks those elbows.
Diego is trying to counter now!
Diego is trying to escape from the rear mount.
Cruz tries to use some of his tricky moves but Cruz's is smart enough to counter him.
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Dominick Cruz isolates an arm looking for an armbar from the back...
Diego locks his hands and forces his weight on top of Dominick Cruz unil he can pull his arm free! Cruz lost his dominant position.
Diego tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Cruz tries to cover his face,
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Diego measures the resilience of Cruz's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Cruz blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Diego is trying to escape from the rear mount.
Diego holds Dominick Cruz's arm over his shoulder and then rolls on the ground. Incredible move to get a half mount!
Diego Sanchez is in side mount over Dominick Cruz
Diego Sanchez goes for an americana!
Cruz breaks free.
Cruz tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Dominick Cruz attempts to trap Diego Sanchez in his guard.
Diego Sanchez keeps control and remains in side mount.
Diego Sanchez is in side mount over Dominick Cruz
Dominick Cruz attempts to trap Diego Sanchez in his guard.
Dominick Cruz manages to switch to full guard.
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Cruz steps backwards and lowers his arms while breathing heavily... He seems tired.
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez tries to roll to his side and trap Dominick Cruz in his guard...
Diego Sanchez gets his hips out and gets to full guard.
Steve Mazzagatti 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.
Diego looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Dominick Cruz's punches
Both fighters are wildly hitting the air!
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Dominick Cruz can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Dominick Cruz tries a middle kick
Diego Sanchez blocks and steps away.
Cruz misses a step and Diego Sanchez sees an opportunity to counter him!
Diego Sanchez tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Cruz is unable to remain on his feet and falls to the ground
The referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.
This round is maybe for Diego Sanchez, but it's close.
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Round 4
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Diego seems hesitant as if he would give the initiative to his opponent.
Diego Sanchez attempts a sweep single...
Diego Sanchez catches Dominick Cruz's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Diego.
The clock says 0:20 in the 4 round
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego Sanchez throws a flurry of punches at Cruz...
A lot of them are hitting Cruz's face
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is looking to end this fight with strikes
He starts to pound away at Dominick Cruz, who is barely covering up!
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego is using some of his ground skills to escape from this...
He pushes Cruz's knee away and tries to roll! Nice move to get half guard!
Diego Sanchez is in half guard over Cruz
Dominick Cruz launches a few punches to Diego's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Diego tries to cover his face,
Diego Sanchez is in half guard over Cruz
Dominick Cruz launches a few punches to Diego's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Diego tries to cover his face,
Diego Sanchez is in half guard over Cruz
Dominick Cruz attempts to move to full guard
Dominick Cruz manages to switch to full guard.
Diego Sanchez is in open guard over Cruz
Cruz tries to close his guard around Diego
He succeeds!
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Dominick Cruz launches a few punches to Diego's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Diego tries to cover his face,
The clock says 1:55 in the 4 round
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego tries to improve his position on the ground as he sits on his knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Cruz leans and gets Diego Sanchez's arms as he brings him to the ground again.
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Cruz tries to move on the ground and shows Diego Sanchez a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Cruz uses his forearms to block the impact!
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego Sanchez is looking to pass Dominick Cruz's guard...
Dominick Cruz has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked.
The clock says 2:25 in the 4 round
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
The clock says 2:35 in the 4 round
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego tries to escape from the full mount...
Dominick Cruz is not caught off guard and moves to side mount to keep his superior position.
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
Not a desiderable position that Cruz is in now. Diego Sanchez is well knowed for his strong and relentless GnP.
Diego Sanchez attempts to trap Dominick Cruz in his guard.
Dominick Cruz keeps control and remains in side mount.
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego is hurt... He should be looking to avoid more damage or he will lose this fight.
Diego measures the resilience of Cruz's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Cruz blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
Dominick Cruz looks to pass to mount...
Cruz slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Diego Sanchez.
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Dominick Cruz tries to better his position on the ground...
Cruz is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego tries to escape from the full mount...
Dominick Cruz is not caught off guard and moves to side mount to keep his superior position.
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Dominick Cruz uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Diego Sanchez gets sloppy and Dominick Cruz tries to take advantage...
Cruz tries to move to full mount!
Nice move. He is in full mount now.
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Torinto Palasport Olimpico (Turin, Italy) are cheering for the fighters.
Diego Sanchez paws at Cruz.
Cruz answers with solid punches!
Diego Sanchez circles around Cruz
Dominick Cruz launches a body shot
Diego evades.
Diego decides to launch some tentative punches
Diego Sanchez takes the best of a brief punching exchange.
Diego Sanchez takes a few seconds to recover his breath...
Cruz moves forward looking for some action
Diego Sanchez struggles a bit before breaking Cruz's attemp of grappling
Cruz launches a kick
but Diego Sanchez avoids it and lands flush with a counter hook!
Diego studies his opponent looking for a hole in his defense.
Steve Mazzagatti tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.
Close round. It could go to either fighter.
It seems that the cutman have some work to do with Dominick Cruz.
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Round 5
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Diego Sanchez paws at Cruz.
Cruz answers with solid punches!
The clock says 0:20 in the 5 round
Diego fires low kicks
that fail to land.
Cruz showing excellent timing, blasts Diego Sanchez with a right hand.
Great hook by Dominick Cruz! Diego Sanchez is caught off balance and slips to the ground!
Diego has a small cut in his Mouth
Cruz is standing while Diego is on the ground on his back
Dominick Cruz decides to jump inside Diego's guard.
Diego didn't see that coming. Cruz is in open guard over Diego now.
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Dominick Cruz uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Diego misses a step and Dominick Cruz sees an opportunity to counter him!
Cruz tries to jump to side mount.
Diego Sanchez closed his guard around Dominick Cruz.
The clock says 1:10 in the 5 round
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
BJJ! That is what must be passing through Cruz's mind right now. Nobody wants to stay long in that position with a submission artist like Diego
Diego Sanchez attempts to trap Dominick Cruz in his guard.
Diego Sanchez manages to switch to full guard.
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Diego breaths deeply while on the ground
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Cruz cornermen are yelling for his man to escape from the ground as Diego can finish a fight on the ground with some good pounding if you give him the chance.
Diego attempts a triangle from bottom! Dominick Cruz slips out. Diego quickly turns his hips over and switches to the armbar! He's throwing everything at him.
Dominick Cruz slips out and backs away to avoid danger.
Steve Mazzagatti halts the fight to stand up Diego Sanchez. 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 clock says 1:40 in the 5 round
Dominick Cruz goes with a looping right hand while Diego Sanchez jumps back and jabs
That one hits but Diego seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange here.
The clock says 1:50 in the 5 round
Cruz launches a stiff jab!
That barely hits Diego's face but it seems like one finger has poked his eye! Does the referee see that?
Steve Mazzagatti didn't see that!
Dominick Cruz circles around Diego
Dominick Cruz throws an uppercut
that lands solidly.
The clock says 2:15 in the 5 round
Diego grabs his opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground
Great takedown by Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez is in open guard over Cruz
Diego Sanchez tries to finish with a leg lock!
Cruz is able to break the lock.
Diego misses a step and Dominick Cruz sees an opportunity to counter him!
Cruz tries to close his guard around Diego
He succeeds!
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Dominick Cruz uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Diego uses his forearms to block the impact!
Diego is trying to counter now!
Diego tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
He successfully moves to half guard!
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Dominick Cruz tries to pass Diego Sanchez's guard...
Dominick Cruz passes momentarily but Diego Sanchez sees and opening and traps him in full guard.
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Diego's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Steve Mazzagatti knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Dominick Cruz tries to pass Diego Sanchez's guard...
Dominick Cruz manages to get his leg free and moves to half guard.
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Cruz is gassing out... Too bad. His performance may be going down from here.
Cruz is moving on the ground...
Ouch! That was a headbutt! Did he do that intentionally?
Steve Mazzagatti didn't see that!
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego reaches under and rolls for a kneebar!
Cruz blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard.
Diego Sanchez gets sloppy and Dominick Cruz tries to take advantage...
Dominick Cruz pushes Diego's leg and tries to move to full mount.
Nice move by Cruz who is in full mount! Diego is in trouble now!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Cruz steps backwards and lowers his arms while breathing heavily... He seems tired.
Cruz positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
One, two, three! Diego's being punished here!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Cruz tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Dominick Cruz controls the situation despite Diego Sanchez efforts for escaping from the full mount.
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez tries to roll to his side and trap Dominick Cruz in his guard...
Dominick Cruz rolls him over and takes his back!
The clock says 4:35 in the 5 round
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego
Dominick Cruz isolates an arm looking for an armbar from the back...
Diego locks his hands and forces his weight on top of Dominick Cruz unil he can pull his arm free! Cruz lost his dominant position.
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Cruz catch Diego Sanchez's left arm and tries a kimura
Diego Sanchez holds his own arm and struggles until he gets free
Cruz misses a step and Diego Sanchez sees an opportunity to counter him!
Deep breaths from Diego Sanchez who tries a hammer punch to Cruz's ribs.
That hit Cruz who moves on the ground in order to protect himself
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
Diego is the winner of this round.
Winner is Diego Sanchez by Unanimous decision
Statistics: Dominick Cruz
Punches 37/57 (65%)
Kicks 0/3 (0%)
Clinch strikes 2/2 (100%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 18/37 (49%)
Submissions 4/4 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 804 s
Statistics: Diego Sanchez
Punches 27/40 (68%)
Kicks 1/9 (11%)
Clinch strikes 6/11 (55%)
Takedowns 4/6 (67%)
GnP strikes 17/43 (40%)
Submissions 10/10 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 817 s
...huh. This was kind of a weird one. One of those, "these guys are both so good, the fight isn't great cause no one is near finishing anyone". Both fought well and are crazy-elite, but Diego just did more longer. Cruz came on hard at the end trying to sway judges, but one good round doesn't win a fight when your opponent had about 3-4 good rounds previously. You gotta win that shit.
Diego Sanchez glares at his opponent from the opposite corner.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
The bets gives an equal chance to both fighters to score the win today.
The referee of the bout is Steve Mazzagatti.
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Round 1
=========================================
The fight gets underway.
The clock says 0:10 in the 1 round
Cruz is one of those men capable of pounding you into oblivion!
Dominick Cruz throws an uppercut
Diego slips it.
A solid combination from Dominick Cruz
mostly hits air.
Diego is trying to counter now!
Bone shattering straight right hand from Diego Sanchez!
Cruz is going to have a big headache after that blow!
Cruz has a small cut in his Left cheek
Cruz launches a furious low kick!
Diego Sanchez blocks
Nice punches from Diego Sanchez.
Cruz staggers backwards. Diego wants to finish this and continues launching bombs!
Quick hook by Diego Sanchez
Good shot! Cruz has reasons to be worried.
Diego Sanchez moves forward looking for some grappling action
Diego has his opponent in a text book double collar thai clinch!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Dominick Cruz tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
Cruz circles out and slips free of Diego Sanchez's grip. Nice job of getting out of that position.
Quick hook by Dominick Cruz
Good shot! Diego has reasons to be worried.
Dominick Cruz fakes a punch and launches himself over Diego Sanchez
Diego counters with a few fake punches and then backpedals
Dominick Cruz and Diego engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Both fighters are connecting and this could be ending soon if either lands a lucky punch.
Dominick Cruz moves forward looking for some grappling action
Diego pushes his opponent and keep the fight at striking range
The clock says 2:05 in the 1 round
Quick hook by Dominick Cruz
glances off Diego's arms.
Dominick Cruz gets sloppy and Diego Sanchez tries to take advantage...
Diego throws a hook
that hits its mark.
The clock says 2:15 in the 1 round
Diego Sanchez moves forward looking for some grappling action
Diego has his opponent in a text book double collar thai clinch!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Sick uppercut from the clinch by Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is agile enough to avoid that one! Lucky you Cruz! It would have finished this fight.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Diego Sanchez was tooling Dominick Cruz for the whole fight. I don't know if it's because Dominick Cruz lack of fighting spirit or just of skill.
Diego Sanchez postures up and launches another series of punches!
A lot of them are hitting Cruz hard, who may be wondering how to scape from this!
Cruz doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Diego Sanchez embrace and tries to move away...
Diego Sanchez pushes Cruz forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Cruz takes a break to breathe while holding Diego Sanchez.
Steve Mazzagatti sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters.
Dominick Cruz goes with a looping right hand while Diego Sanchez jumps back and jabs
Cruz only hits air and the subsequent exchange is fruitless.
Diego Sanchez shoots for a double leg takedown!
Dominick Cruz sprawls and manages to stay on his feet.
Cruz is trying to counter now!
Dominick Cruz locks up a guillotine with an arm in...
Diego Sanchez brings Dominick Cruz down to the ground and pulls his head out.
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego tries to escape from the full mount...
Diego struggles and pushes his opponent maybe a bit anxiously
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
The fight was awfully one sided. Matchmakers should take this into account for future fights.
Cruz tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Dominick Cruz controls the situation despite Diego Sanchez efforts for escaping from the full mount.
The clock says 3:45 in the 1 round
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego measures the resilience of Cruz's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Cruz's side.
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Diego's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Steve Mazzagatti knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Dominick Cruz uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
The clock says 4:20 in the 1 round
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Cruz tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Dominick Cruz controls the situation despite Diego Sanchez efforts for escaping from the full mount.
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Dominick Cruz uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Diego Sanchez gets sloppy and Dominick Cruz tries to take advantage...
Diego tries to escape from the full mount...
Dominick Cruz is not caught off guard and moves to side mount to keep his superior position.
The clock says 4:40 in the 1 round
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
Dominick Cruz looks to mount Diego Sanchez...
Diego Sanchez takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Cruz moves on the ground..
He gets half guard.
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego reaches under and rolls for a kneebar!
Cruz blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard.
Steve Mazzagatti separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
I can't give the advantage to either fighter in that round.
=========================================
Round 2
=========================================
Diego tries to close an armbar from the bottom!
Cruz knows what was coming and counters the lock.
The clock says 0:20 in the 2 round
Quick hook by Dominick Cruz
Good shot! Diego has reasons to be worried.
The fight was awfully one sided. Matchmakers should take this into account for future fights.
Diego Sanchez is opening up on Cruz and raining down combinations!
Cruz's corner looks worried!
Cruz has a small cut in his Left eye
Dominick Cruz fakes a punch and launches himself over Diego Sanchez
Diego counters with a few fake punches and then backpedals
Dominick Cruz attempts a sweep single...
Dominick Cruz catches Diego Sanchez's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Cruz.
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Cruz tries to cover his face,
The clock says 1:10 in the 2 round
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Dominick Cruz tries to pass Diego Sanchez's guard...
Dominick Cruz manages to get his leg free and moves to half guard.
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Dominick Cruz seems fresh. He may still have a lot of gas in his tank.
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Diego uses his forearms to block the impact!
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego Sanchez attempts to move to full guard
Diego Sanchez manages to switch to full guard.
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Diego measures the resilience of Cruz's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Cruz blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Diego Sanchez gets sloppy and Dominick Cruz tries to take advantage...
Dominick Cruz looks to posture up and open Diego Sanchez's guard...
Dominick Cruz forces Diego Sanchez to open his guard.
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Diego tries to close his guard around Cruz
He is not able to do it
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Diego tries to close his guard around Cruz
He succeeds!
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Cruz gets a good position on the ground. ..
Diego holds Dominick Cruz arms and counters his opponent punches.
Cruz misses a step and Diego Sanchez sees an opportunity to counter him!
Diego Sanchez sits up and gets an arm around Cruz's neck!
Cruz pushes Diego Sanchez back to the ground.
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Cruz tries to escape from closed guard...
Cruz struggles to liberate his leg and jumps to half guard!
The clock says 2:30 in the 2 round
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Dominick Cruz launches a few punches to Diego
Diego covers himself well and then rolls on the ground. Great reversal!
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.
Diego fires low kicks
that fail to land.
Bone shattering straight right hand from Dominick Cruz!
Diego is going to have a big headache after that blow!
Diego has a small cut in his Left cheek
Diego Sanchez leans forwards and tries to grapple with Cruz
Diego shows his clinching skills. Both fighters are clinching now.
The fighters are clinching.
Cruz grapple with Diego Sanchez and tries a Inner leg Sweep
Diego Sanchez managed to maintain his balances and move away from Cruz
The clock says 3:25 in the 2 round
Dominick Cruz goes with a looping right hand while Diego Sanchez jumps back and jabs
Diego seems staggered and Dominick Cruz runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses.
Diego jumps over his opponent and tries to grapple
Diego Sanchez pushes his opponent against the fence in a plum position
Cruz doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Diego Sanchez embrace and tries to move away...
Nice move from Cruz who put distance between them
Several good body shots
land on Diego.
Diego wants to close the range and tries to grapple...
Nice move. He shoves himself over his opponent and secure a single collar tie.
Cruz doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Diego Sanchez embrace and tries to move away...
Diego Sanchez pushes Cruz forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.
The clock says 4:05 in the 2 round
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Dominick Cruz's corner is turning out to be his worst enemy! Diego is throwing a flurry of punches!
Dominick Cruz just can't get away!
Cruz's Right cheek is beginning to swell
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Diego takes a break to breathe while holding Dominick Cruz.
Steve Mazzagatti sees a lack of activity in the clinch and separates the fighters.
Middle kick from Diego.
The kick just misses.
Cruz tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Dominick Cruz fakes a move and launches a nice uppercut
it lands on Diego's chin
Bone shattering straight right hand from Dominick Cruz!
Diego is going to have a big headache after that blow!
The clock says 4:45 in the 2 round
Not a desiderable position that Diego is in now. Dominick Cruz is well knowed for his strong and relentless GnP.
Cruz pushes Diego Sanchez and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath.
Diego is holding Dominick Cruz's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Dominick Cruz shows great balance while pushing away Diego Sanchez
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
That was an even round for the most part.
=========================================
Round 3
=========================================
Tremendous strikes from Diego!
Cruz blocks with confidence
Cruz tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Diego Sanchez paws at Cruz.
Cruz answers with solid punches!
Diego Sanchez goes with a looping right hand while Dominick Cruz jumps back and jabs
That one hits but Cruz seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange here.
Diego Sanchez tries a middle kick
Dominick Cruz blocks and steps away.
Dominick Cruz tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Diego is unable to remain on his feet and falls to the ground
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Diego uses his forearms to block the impact!
Diego is trying to counter now!
Diego throws his legs up in a triangle attempt!
Dominick Cruz realizes the danger and stands up to avoid the attack.
Steve Mazzagatti halts the fight to stand up Dominick Cruz. 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.
Low kick by Diego Sanchez to maintain his distance.
That hits Dominick Cruz's ankle
Cruz hyper-extended his leg
The clock says 1:10 in the 3 round
Cruz wants to close the range and tries to grapple...
Diego doesn't want anything like this as he moves backwards
Diego moves backwards and Dominick Cruz is asking him if he came today for fighting or running.
The clock says 1:30 in the 3 round
Inside leg kick from Cruz
that goes awry.
Diego Sanchez and Cruz engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Diego Sanchez is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows.
Diego is holding Dominick Cruz's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Dominick Cruz loses balance and goes to the ground.
Diego Sanchez is in side mount over Dominick Cruz
Diego Sanchez looks to pass to mount...
Diego slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Dominick Cruz.
Diego Sanchez is in full mount over Dominick Cruz
Diego Sanchez throws the leg over and rolls it over into an armbar!
Cruz breaks the lock showing some skills...
Cruz is trying to counter now!
Dominick Cruz tries to roll to his side and trap Diego Sanchez in his guard...
Diego Sanchez keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Diego Sanchez is in full mount over Dominick Cruz
Diego Sanchez tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top
Cruz is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt
Poorly executed technique. Dominick Cruz looks to counter!
Cruz is using some of his ground skills to escape from this...
He pushes Diego's knee away and tries to roll! Nice move to get half guard!
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego measures the resilience of Cruz's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Cruz's side.
Hard blow to Cruz's mid-section, he seems hurt
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego Sanchez tries to close the guard.
Nothing from this effort.
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego Sanchez tries to close the guard.
Nothing from this effort.
Diego misses a step and Dominick Cruz sees an opportunity to counter him!
Cruz launches a few fake punches and tries to escape!
Diego is covering himself! Cruz tries to force the situation and Diego clumsily gives his back!
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego
Cruz tries to get a hook in!
Things get worse for Diego! Cruz has one hook in and keeps working!
The clock says 3:00 in the 3 round
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Diego uses his forearms to block the impact!
The clock says 3:10 in the 3 round
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Cruz positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
One, two, three! Diego's being punished here!
Diego's Chin is bruised after the punishement he's received!
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Cruz tries to open up Diego Sanchez's defense faking a few punches.
He is aggressively and repeatedly punching Diego in the side of the head
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Cruz positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
Diego's attempts to cover himself and blocks those elbows.
Diego is trying to counter now!
Diego is trying to escape from the rear mount.
Cruz tries to use some of his tricky moves but Cruz's is smart enough to counter him.
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Dominick Cruz isolates an arm looking for an armbar from the back...
Diego locks his hands and forces his weight on top of Dominick Cruz unil he can pull his arm free! Cruz lost his dominant position.
Diego tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Cruz tries to cover his face,
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Diego measures the resilience of Cruz's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Cruz blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego with one hook in
Diego is trying to escape from the rear mount.
Diego holds Dominick Cruz's arm over his shoulder and then rolls on the ground. Incredible move to get a half mount!
Diego Sanchez is in side mount over Dominick Cruz
Diego Sanchez goes for an americana!
Cruz breaks free.
Cruz tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Dominick Cruz attempts to trap Diego Sanchez in his guard.
Diego Sanchez keeps control and remains in side mount.
Diego Sanchez is in side mount over Dominick Cruz
Dominick Cruz attempts to trap Diego Sanchez in his guard.
Dominick Cruz manages to switch to full guard.
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Cruz steps backwards and lowers his arms while breathing heavily... He seems tired.
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez tries to roll to his side and trap Dominick Cruz in his guard...
Diego Sanchez gets his hips out and gets to full guard.
Steve Mazzagatti 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.
Diego looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Dominick Cruz's punches
Both fighters are wildly hitting the air!
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Dominick Cruz can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Dominick Cruz tries a middle kick
Diego Sanchez blocks and steps away.
Cruz misses a step and Diego Sanchez sees an opportunity to counter him!
Diego Sanchez tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Cruz is unable to remain on his feet and falls to the ground
The referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.
This round is maybe for Diego Sanchez, but it's close.
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Round 4
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Diego seems hesitant as if he would give the initiative to his opponent.
Diego Sanchez attempts a sweep single...
Diego Sanchez catches Dominick Cruz's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Diego.
The clock says 0:20 in the 4 round
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego Sanchez throws a flurry of punches at Cruz...
A lot of them are hitting Cruz's face
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is looking to end this fight with strikes
He starts to pound away at Dominick Cruz, who is barely covering up!
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego is using some of his ground skills to escape from this...
He pushes Cruz's knee away and tries to roll! Nice move to get half guard!
Diego Sanchez is in half guard over Cruz
Dominick Cruz launches a few punches to Diego's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Diego tries to cover his face,
Diego Sanchez is in half guard over Cruz
Dominick Cruz launches a few punches to Diego's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Diego tries to cover his face,
Diego Sanchez is in half guard over Cruz
Dominick Cruz attempts to move to full guard
Dominick Cruz manages to switch to full guard.
Diego Sanchez is in open guard over Cruz
Cruz tries to close his guard around Diego
He succeeds!
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Dominick Cruz launches a few punches to Diego's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Diego tries to cover his face,
The clock says 1:55 in the 4 round
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego tries to improve his position on the ground as he sits on his knees and tries to break the closed guard.
Cruz leans and gets Diego Sanchez's arms as he brings him to the ground again.
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Cruz tries to move on the ground and shows Diego Sanchez a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Cruz uses his forearms to block the impact!
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego Sanchez is looking to pass Dominick Cruz's guard...
Dominick Cruz has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked.
The clock says 2:25 in the 4 round
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
The clock says 2:35 in the 4 round
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego tries to escape from the full mount...
Dominick Cruz is not caught off guard and moves to side mount to keep his superior position.
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
Not a desiderable position that Cruz is in now. Diego Sanchez is well knowed for his strong and relentless GnP.
Diego Sanchez attempts to trap Dominick Cruz in his guard.
Dominick Cruz keeps control and remains in side mount.
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego is hurt... He should be looking to avoid more damage or he will lose this fight.
Diego measures the resilience of Cruz's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Cruz blocks the hits as he works on the ground.
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
Dominick Cruz looks to pass to mount...
Cruz slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Diego Sanchez.
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Dominick Cruz tries to better his position on the ground...
Cruz is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego tries to escape from the full mount...
Dominick Cruz is not caught off guard and moves to side mount to keep his superior position.
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Dominick Cruz uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Diego Sanchez gets sloppy and Dominick Cruz tries to take advantage...
Cruz tries to move to full mount!
Nice move. He is in full mount now.
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Torinto Palasport Olimpico (Turin, Italy) are cheering for the fighters.
Diego Sanchez paws at Cruz.
Cruz answers with solid punches!
Diego Sanchez circles around Cruz
Dominick Cruz launches a body shot
Diego evades.
Diego decides to launch some tentative punches
Diego Sanchez takes the best of a brief punching exchange.
Diego Sanchez takes a few seconds to recover his breath...
Cruz moves forward looking for some action
Diego Sanchez struggles a bit before breaking Cruz's attemp of grappling
Cruz launches a kick
but Diego Sanchez avoids it and lands flush with a counter hook!
Diego studies his opponent looking for a hole in his defense.
Steve Mazzagatti tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.
Close round. It could go to either fighter.
It seems that the cutman have some work to do with Dominick Cruz.
=========================================
Round 5
=========================================
Diego Sanchez paws at Cruz.
Cruz answers with solid punches!
The clock says 0:20 in the 5 round
Diego fires low kicks
that fail to land.
Cruz showing excellent timing, blasts Diego Sanchez with a right hand.
Great hook by Dominick Cruz! Diego Sanchez is caught off balance and slips to the ground!
Diego has a small cut in his Mouth
Cruz is standing while Diego is on the ground on his back
Dominick Cruz decides to jump inside Diego's guard.
Diego didn't see that coming. Cruz is in open guard over Diego now.
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Dominick Cruz uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Diego misses a step and Dominick Cruz sees an opportunity to counter him!
Cruz tries to jump to side mount.
Diego Sanchez closed his guard around Dominick Cruz.
The clock says 1:10 in the 5 round
Dominick Cruz is in side mount over Diego Sanchez
BJJ! That is what must be passing through Cruz's mind right now. Nobody wants to stay long in that position with a submission artist like Diego
Diego Sanchez attempts to trap Dominick Cruz in his guard.
Diego Sanchez manages to switch to full guard.
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Diego breaths deeply while on the ground
Dominick Cruz is in open guard over Diego
Cruz cornermen are yelling for his man to escape from the ground as Diego can finish a fight on the ground with some good pounding if you give him the chance.
Diego attempts a triangle from bottom! Dominick Cruz slips out. Diego quickly turns his hips over and switches to the armbar! He's throwing everything at him.
Dominick Cruz slips out and backs away to avoid danger.
Steve Mazzagatti halts the fight to stand up Diego Sanchez. 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 clock says 1:40 in the 5 round
Dominick Cruz goes with a looping right hand while Diego Sanchez jumps back and jabs
That one hits but Diego seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange here.
The clock says 1:50 in the 5 round
Cruz launches a stiff jab!
That barely hits Diego's face but it seems like one finger has poked his eye! Does the referee see that?
Steve Mazzagatti didn't see that!
Dominick Cruz circles around Diego
Dominick Cruz throws an uppercut
that lands solidly.
The clock says 2:15 in the 5 round
Diego grabs his opponent by the waist and tries to take the fight to the ground
Great takedown by Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez is in open guard over Cruz
Diego Sanchez tries to finish with a leg lock!
Cruz is able to break the lock.
Diego misses a step and Dominick Cruz sees an opportunity to counter him!
Cruz tries to close his guard around Diego
He succeeds!
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez launches a few punches to Cruz's cheek from the guard.
Dominick Cruz uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Diego uses his forearms to block the impact!
Diego is trying to counter now!
Diego tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
He successfully moves to half guard!
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Dominick Cruz tries to pass Diego Sanchez's guard...
Dominick Cruz passes momentarily but Diego Sanchez sees and opening and traps him in full guard.
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Diego tries to move on the ground and shows Dominick Cruz a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Diego's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! Steve Mazzagatti knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Dominick Cruz is in closed guard over Diego
Dominick Cruz tries to pass Diego Sanchez's guard...
Dominick Cruz manages to get his leg free and moves to half guard.
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Cruz is gassing out... Too bad. His performance may be going down from here.
Cruz is moving on the ground...
Ouch! That was a headbutt! Did he do that intentionally?
Steve Mazzagatti didn't see that!
Dominick Cruz is in half guard over Diego
Diego reaches under and rolls for a kneebar!
Cruz blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard.
Diego Sanchez gets sloppy and Dominick Cruz tries to take advantage...
Dominick Cruz pushes Diego's leg and tries to move to full mount.
Nice move by Cruz who is in full mount! Diego is in trouble now!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Cruz steps backwards and lowers his arms while breathing heavily... He seems tired.
Cruz positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
One, two, three! Diego's being punished here!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Cruz tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Dominick Cruz controls the situation despite Diego Sanchez efforts for escaping from the full mount.
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Diego Sanchez tries to roll to his side and trap Dominick Cruz in his guard...
Dominick Cruz rolls him over and takes his back!
The clock says 4:35 in the 5 round
Cruz is in rear mount over Diego
Dominick Cruz isolates an arm looking for an armbar from the back...
Diego locks his hands and forces his weight on top of Dominick Cruz unil he can pull his arm free! Cruz lost his dominant position.
Diego Sanchez is in closed guard over Cruz
Diego is in closed guard... Cruz tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Diego Sanchez!
Dominick Cruz is in full mount over Diego Sanchez
Cruz catch Diego Sanchez's left arm and tries a kimura
Diego Sanchez holds his own arm and struggles until he gets free
Cruz misses a step and Diego Sanchez sees an opportunity to counter him!
Deep breaths from Diego Sanchez who tries a hammer punch to Cruz's ribs.
That hit Cruz who moves on the ground in order to protect himself
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
Diego is the winner of this round.
Winner is Diego Sanchez by Unanimous decision
Statistics: Dominick Cruz
Punches 37/57 (65%)
Kicks 0/3 (0%)
Clinch strikes 2/2 (100%)
Takedowns 2/2 (100%)
GnP strikes 18/37 (49%)
Submissions 4/4 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 804 s
Statistics: Diego Sanchez
Punches 27/40 (68%)
Kicks 1/9 (11%)
Clinch strikes 6/11 (55%)
Takedowns 4/6 (67%)
GnP strikes 17/43 (40%)
Submissions 10/10 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 817 s
...huh. This was kind of a weird one. One of those, "these guys are both so good, the fight isn't great cause no one is near finishing anyone". Both fought well and are crazy-elite, but Diego just did more longer. Cruz came on hard at the end trying to sway judges, but one good round doesn't win a fight when your opponent had about 3-4 good rounds previously. You gotta win that shit.
I'm a little disappointed inthe judges decision here... Split decision... maybe, no way that was unanimous. Great fight though. My pick for FotN, for sure. 
I'm a little disappointed inthe judges decision here... Split decision... maybe, no way that was unanimous. 
Have 9 points in celebration of this monumental achievement!