Post by The Sandmen on Mar 23, 2016 8:16:20 GMT -5
Ferocious staredown by Rockhold while Dan Miragliotta recites the rules.
Kazushi Sakuraba looks very relaxed.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
Sakuraba is the fighter that will win today if we pay attention to the bets.
The referee of the bout is Dan Miragliotta.
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Round 1
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Luke Rockhold and Kazushi Sakuraba touch gloves in the center to get this fight started!
Sakuraba moves forward looking for some action
Kazushi Sakuraba shows some wrestling skills as he put his opponent in a double overhook!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rockhold struggles and launches a few punches to Sakuraba's head
Nothing from this... Luke Rockhold seems frustrated.
The fighters are clinching.
Luke Rockhold shoots and grab Kazushi Sakuraba's ankle trying to take him down with a Heel Trip Reversal
Rockhold scoop up Kazushi Sakuraba's ankle with one hand and pushes his body with another forcing Sakuraba to the mat
The clock says 0:40 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
The clock says 0:50 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold is in closed guard... Sakuraba tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Luke Rockhold!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in full mount over Luke Rockhold
Luke Rockhold tries to roll on the ground...
He makes a reversal!
The clock says 1:15 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold 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 Friends Arena (Stockholm, Sweden) is cheering him!
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to trap Luke Rockhold in his guard.
Kazushi Sakuraba manages to switch to half guard.
The clock says 1:35 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Stand up! This is what Rockhold's cornermen are shouting. Kazushi Sakuraba is a submission master and he can finish the fight if you mess with him on the ground.
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to move to full guard
Kazushi Sakuraba manages to switch to full guard.
The clock says 1:45 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He is not able to do it
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He is not able to do it
The clock says 2:10 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold tries to better his position on the ground...
Rockhold breaks the closed guard of Kazushi Sakuraba and moves to half guard
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to show some ground skills
Kazushi Sakuraba put Rockhold in half guard.
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to move to full guard
Luke Rockhold keeps good control and remains in half guard.
The clock says 2:50 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold shifts to north-south position and tries to finish with a lock!
Sakuraba pushes Luke Rockhold forward against his back and breaks the lock!
The clock says 3:00 in the 1 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
Sakuraba is in closed guard... Rockhold tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba!
Luke Rockhold is in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba tries to roll to his side and trap Luke Rockhold in his guard...
Luke Rockhold keeps good control and remains in full mount.
The clock says 3:25 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a few punches to Rockhold's cheek from the guard.
Luke Rockhold uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Sakuraba misses a step and Luke Rockhold sees an opportunity to counter him!
Rockhold tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Luke Rockhold controls the situation despite Kazushi Sakuraba efforts for escaping from the full mount.
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
The clock says 3:35 in the 1 round
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a low kick
that almost wrenches Rockhold's knee!
Luke Rockhold tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Sakuraba is unable to remain on his feet and falls to the ground
That punishment by Luke Rockhold has left Sakuraba staggered! Luke Rockhold should try push forward now and finish this!
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba overhooks an arm and starts cranking! Interesting meneuver.
Rockhold pulls his arm out of danger.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba measures the resilience of Rockhold's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Rockhold's side.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He is not able to do it
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba measures the resilience of Rockhold's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Rockhold's side.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
Sakuraba's attempts to cover himself and blocks those elbows.
The clock says 4:55 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold tries to improve position.
He frees a leg.
Dan Miragliotta separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
Close round. It could go to either fighter.
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Round 2
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Kazushi Sakuraba moves forward looking for some grappling action
Rockhold pushes his opponent and keep the fight at striking range
Brilliant combination from Kazushi Sakuraba
Rockhold is showing some dodging skills avoiding that ones.
Kazushi Sakuraba gets sloppy and Luke Rockhold tries to take advantage...
Rockhold throws a hook
that hits its mark.
Sakuraba's Left cheek is bruised after the punishement he's received!
Incredible high kick!
Sakuraba is worried!
Kazushi Sakuraba fakes a punch and launches himself over Luke Rockhold
Great move by Sakuraba who pushes his opponent under a troublesome thai clinch
Rockhold doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Kazushi Sakuraba embrace and tries to move away...
Kazushi Sakuraba pushes Rockhold forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Kazushi Sakuraba is controlling the clinch and launches a vicious knee!
He was aiming at Rockhold's face but his move was blocked
Sakuraba misses a step and Luke Rockhold sees an opportunity to counter him!
Luke Rockhold is controlling the clinch and launches a vicious knee!
Crushing blow to Sakuraba's face.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in good position and is looking to change levels for the takedown...
Sakuraba catches an ankle and Rockhold is tripped to the mat!
Crushing shot to Rockhold's body! He's holding his side
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Luke Rockhold can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Luke Rockhold isolates an arm in a kimura attempt!
Sakuraba blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Rockhold's guard.
The clock says 1:30 in the 2 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Good looking punches from Kazushi Sakuraba on the ground
deflected by Rockhold.
Sakuraba misses a step and Luke Rockhold sees an opportunity to counter him!
Luke Rockhold overhooks an arm and starts cranking! Interesting meneuver.
Sakuraba pulls his arm out of danger.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Sakuraba is moving on the ground...
Ouch! That was a headbutt! Did he do that intentionally?
Dan Miragliotta didn't see the foul!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Luke Rockhold tries to turn in and scramble out. Kazushi Sakuraba timed him perfectly and locks up a guillotine!
Luke Rockhold slips his head out and manages to gain top control.
Kazushi Sakuraba gets sloppy and Luke Rockhold tries to take advantage...
Rockhold measures the resilience of Sakuraba's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Sakuraba's side.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Luke Rockhold tries to turn in and scramble out. Kazushi Sakuraba timed him perfectly and locks up a guillotine!
Luke Rockhold slips his head out and manages to gain top control.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold tries to escape from the closed guard
Rockhold succeeds and he's now in open guard... he takes a second to breathe
The clock says 2:35 in the 2 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba measures the resilience of Rockhold's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Rockhold's side.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He is not able to do it
The clock says 2:50 in the 2 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold tries to escape from closed guard...
Rockhold struggles to liberate his leg and jumps to half guard!
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Rockhold struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Sakuraba misses a step and Luke Rockhold sees an opportunity to counter him!
Luke Rockhold tries to pass Kazushi Sakuraba's guard...
Luke Rockhold passes momentarily but Kazushi Sakuraba sees and opening and traps him in full guard.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a few punches to Rockhold's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Rockhold tries to cover his face,
There is a small laceration on Luke Rockhold's Left cheek
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba is taking this opportunity to rest.
The clock says 3:40 in the 2 round
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba sits up and gets an arm around Rockhold's neck!
Rockhold pushes Kazushi Sakuraba back to the ground.
Sakuraba clumsily fails here and it's time for Luke Rockhold to fight back!
Luke Rockhold tries to better his position on the ground...
Sakuraba holds Luke Rockhold's head against his chin in the closed guard.
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold is in closed guard... Sakuraba tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Luke Rockhold!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in full mount over Luke Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba throws the leg over and rolls it over into an armbar!
Rockhold breaks the lock showing some skills...
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.
Lightning fast low kick from Sakuraba!
Loud pop! I'm sure that hurts!
Sakuraba jumps over his opponent and tries to grapple
Kazushi Sakuraba pushes his opponent against the fence in a plum position
The clock says 4:25 in the 2 round
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rockhold tries to break the clinch... Kazushi Sakuraba launches a great knee when he finds a narrow space!
Awesome impact! Rockhold stumbles backwards and Kazushi Sakuraba shoots an incredible takedown!
The clock says 4:30 in the 2 round
Kazushi Sakuraba fakes a punch and launches himself over Luke Rockhold
Great move by Sakuraba who pushes his opponent under a troublesome thai clinch
The clock says 4:40 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
Sakuraba tries a flying knee towards Luke Rockhold's chest
what a move the impact sents Rockhold to the fence
Rockhold ribs are getting hammered, they look bad!
The clock says 4:50 in the 2 round
Kazushi Sakuraba moves forward looking for some grappling action
Sakuraba has his opponent in a text book double collar thai clinch!
Rockhold doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Kazushi Sakuraba embrace and tries to move away...
Kazushi Sakuraba pushes Rockhold forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.
The clock says 4:55 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
Sakuraba doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Luke Rockhold embrace and tries to move away...
Nice move from Sakuraba who put distance between them
Dan Miragliotta tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.
I don't think either fighter got the better of their opponent that round.
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Round 3
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Rockhold is holding Kazushi Sakuraba's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Kazushi Sakuraba shows great balance while pushing away Luke Rockhold
Rockhold misses a step and Kazushi Sakuraba sees an opportunity to counter him!
Sakuraba wants to close the range and tries to grapple...
Nice move. He shoves himself over his opponent and secure a single collar tie.
The fighters are clinching.
Sakuraba charge towards Luke Rockhold with a flying knee
Luke Rockhold got hit in the chest and the impact sent him to the mat
Sakuraba is standing while Rockhold is on the ground on his back
Kazushi Sakuraba opts to go after his opponent and jumps inside Rockhold's guard.
Rockhold didn't see that coming. Sakuraba is in open guard over Rockhold now.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in open guard over Rockhold
Rockhold tries to close his guard around Sakuraba
He succeeds!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba tries to better his position on the ground...
Sakuraba breaks the closed guard of Luke Rockhold and moves to half guard
Kazushi Sakuraba is in side mount over Luke Rockhold
Luke Rockhold tries to turn in and scramble out. Kazushi Sakuraba timed him perfectly and locks up a guillotine!
Luke Rockhold slips his head out and manages to gain top control.
The clock says 1:20 in the 3 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold tries to improve position.
Sakuraba adjusts and closes his guard.
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Rockhold struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Kazushi Sakuraba gets sloppy and Luke Rockhold tries to take advantage...
Rockhold tries to escape from closed guard...
Sakuraba waits for the moment and tries to roll! Too late for Luke Rockhold! He is reversed and nor Kazushi Sakuraba is on half guard!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba tries a kimura
That kimura looks tight...
Rockhold breaks the lock.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in side mount over Luke Rockhold
Luke Rockhold attempts to trap Kazushi Sakuraba in his guard.
Luke Rockhold manages to switch to full guard.
The clock says 2:00 in the 3 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
Rockhold measures the resilience of Sakuraba's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Sakuraba's side.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
Sakuraba struggles on the ground and tries to break Luke Rockhold's guard...
Rockhold doesn't want to free his opponent and Sakuraba continues in closed guard
Kazushi Sakuraba gets sloppy and Luke Rockhold tries to take advantage...
Rockhold attempts a triangle from bottom! Kazushi Sakuraba slips out. Rockhold quickly turns his hips over and switches to the armbar! He's throwing everything at him.
Kazushi Sakuraba slips out and backs away to avoid danger.
Dan Miragliotta halts the fight to stand up Kazushi Sakuraba. 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.
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a low kick
that gets blocked quickly.
Several good body shots
are evaded by Sakuraba.
Poorly executed technique. Kazushi Sakuraba looks to counter!
Sakuraba wants to take the fight to his advantage and tries to clinch.
Sakuraba moves forward and holds Rockhold
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Sakuraba tries to take Luke Rockhold down... Rockhold stumbles backwards and Kazushi Sakuraba launches a few punches...
Luke Rockhold dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
Sakuraba launches a stiff jab!
That barely hits Rockhold's face but it seems like one finger has poked his eye! Does the referee see that?
Dan Miragliotta didn't see that!
Luke Rockhold shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Kazushi Sakuraba is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Rockhold into his guard.
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold is looking to pass Kazushi Sakuraba's guard...
Luke Rockhold gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold hooks Sakuraba's right leg and sits back for a kneebar!
Kazushi Sakuraba manages to kick Rockhold away and scrambles on top!
Luke Rockhold gets sloppy and Kazushi Sakuraba tries to take advantage...
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to move to full guard
Kazushi Sakuraba manages to switch to full guard.
The clock says 3:25 in the 3 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold is looking to pass Kazushi Sakuraba's guard...
Luke Rockhold gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold pushes Sakuraba's leg and tries to move to full mount.
Nice move by Rockhold who is in full mount! Sakuraba is in trouble now!
Luke Rockhold is in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold isolates Kazushi Sakuraba's arm and neck looking for an arm triangle
Kazushi Sakuraba is able to relieve the pressure on his neck and slip out of the hold.
Luke Rockhold is in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
He successfully moves to half guard!
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
The fans are in for a real treat now. It's always fun to watch Kazushi Sakuraba work his BJJ game.
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to move to full guard
Luke Rockhold keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba reaches under and rolls for a kneebar!
Rockhold blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard.
Poorly executed technique. Luke Rockhold looks to counter!
Rockhold leans back...
Sakuraba eyes him warily.
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold tries to free his leg...
Sakuraba doesn't allow any movement here! He's cooling the fight on the ground.
Poorly executed technique. Kazushi Sakuraba looks to counter!
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to move to full guard
Kazushi Sakuraba manages to switch to full guard.
Dan Miragliotta 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.
Sakuraba wants to take the fight to his advantage and tries to clinch.
Sakuraba moves forward and holds Rockhold
Luke Rockhold tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
Sakuraba is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position.
Dan Miragliotta tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.
The round is for Rockhold, who walks calmly to his corner.
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Round 4
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As the fight continues it seems that Luke Rockhold is taking the best of the fight.
Luke Rockhold launches a low kick
that gets blocked quickly.
Poorly executed technique. Kazushi Sakuraba looks to counter!
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a low kick
that almost wrenches Rockhold's knee!
Luke Rockhold swings...
hard impact to Sakuraba's face!
The clock says 0:30 in the 4 round
The two exchange wildly
Rockhold is connecting with a few punches
Sakuraba tries to grapple
He puts Rockhold in a double underhook!
The fighters are clinching.
Sakuraba grab one of Luke Rockhold's arm and tries a Hip Throw
Rockhold done well to maintain his balances and avoid going down
The fighters are clinching.
Rockhold and Kazushi Sakuraba are cliched up against the cage. Rockhold steps for a throw
Sakuraba stays on his feet
Rockhold misses a step and Kazushi Sakuraba sees an opportunity to counter him!
Sakuraba tries to take Luke Rockhold down... Rockhold stumbles backwards and Kazushi Sakuraba launches a few punches...
One swing hits hard Rockhold's jaw!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rockhold launches a few hard punches to Kazushi Sakuraba's ribs!
Kazushi Sakuraba's ribs shows the damage! Luke Rockhold is working his opponent ribs!
The fighters are clinching.
Rockhold launches a few hard punches to Kazushi Sakuraba's ribs!
Sakuraba struggles and protects himself.
The fighters are clinching.
Sakuraba tries to break the clinch... Luke Rockhold launches a great knee when he finds a narrow space!
Awesome impact! Sakuraba stumbles backwards and Luke Rockhold shoots an incredible takedown!
Kazushi Sakuraba fakes a punch and launches himself over Luke Rockhold
Great move by Sakuraba who pushes his opponent under a troublesome thai clinch
Luke Rockhold tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
Rockhold circles out and slips free of Kazushi Sakuraba's grip. Nice job of getting out of that position.
Luke Rockhold launches a couples of jabs and then a big hook!
Sakuraba blocks the jabs but the last punch hits hard on Kazushi Sakuraba's cheek! Sakuraba stumbles and the falls to the mat!
The clock says 2:05 in the 4 round
Rockhold is standing while Sakuraba is on the ground on his back
Luke Rockhold creates space and allows Kazushi Sakuraba to stand up.
Back to the beginning! Kazushi Sakuraba is standing now.
The clock says 2:15 in the 4 round
Luke Rockhold chases Sakuraba and launches a few perfect strikes
Here we go! Sakuraba steps backwards when those punches connect with his face
The clock says 2:25 in the 4 round
Sakuraba is holding Luke Rockhold's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Luke Rockhold loses balance and goes to the ground.
Rockhold's left arm is getting wrenched, it appears to be injured
Kazushi Sakuraba is in side mount over Luke Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba looks to mount Luke Rockhold...
Luke Rockhold takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in open guard over Rockhold
Rockhold tries to close his guard around Sakuraba
He succeeds!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba looks to posture up and open Luke Rockhold's guard...
Kazushi Sakuraba forces Luke Rockhold to open his guard.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in open guard over Rockhold
Luke Rockhold launches a few punches to Sakuraba's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Sakuraba tries to cover his face,
Kazushi Sakuraba is in open guard over Rockhold
Sakuraba moves on the ground..
He gets half guard.
The clock says 3:30 in the 4 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Rockhold switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Sakuraba struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
The clock says 3:40 in the 4 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba tries a kimura
Rockhold breaks the lock.
Rockhold tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Luke Rockhold isolates an arm in a kimura attempt!
Sakuraba blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Rockhold's guard.
The clock says 3:50 in the 4 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba isolates Luke Rockhold's arm and neck looking for an arm triangle
Luke Rockhold is able to relieve the pressure on his neck and slip out of the hold.
Poorly executed technique. Luke Rockhold looks to counter!
Rockhold throws his legs up in a triangle attempt!
Kazushi Sakuraba realizes the danger and stands up to avoid the attack.
Dan Miragliotta halts the fight to stand up Kazushi Sakuraba. 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.
Kazushi Sakuraba takes a few seconds to recover his breath...
The fight is still up for grabs at this point.
Sakuraba attempts a shoot
but stops before running into Rockhold's kick.
Luke Rockhold attempts to cut off Sakuraba with punches
Sakuraba avoids getting cornered.
Sakuraba tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Sakuraba moves forward looking for some action
Kazushi Sakuraba shows some wrestling skills as he put his opponent in a double overhook!
The fighters are clinching.
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a few punches towards Rockhold's ribs while holds him in a double overhooks!
Rockhold seems unaffected... those punches doesn't carry any power!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Nice fight between these two warriors. Anyone could be the winner.
Luke Rockhold pushes away Sakuraba trying to keep the fight at striking range
Sakuraba doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Luke Rockhold
Poorly executed technique. Kazushi Sakuraba looks to counter!
Kazushi Sakuraba pushes away Rockhold trying to keep the fight at striking range
Rockhold stumbles backwards and Kazushi Sakuraba circles to get the center of the cage
Kazushi Sakuraba circles around Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba takes a few seconds to recover his breath...
Dan Miragliotta separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
Sakuraba is the winner of this round.
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Round 5
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The clock says 0:10 in the 5 round
Lightning fast low kick from Rockhold!
Sakuraba blocks that kick with his leg.
The clock says 0:20 in the 5 round
Kazushi Sakuraba and Rockhold engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Kazushi Sakuraba is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows.
A bad move from Kazushi Sakuraba
almost puts his head in the path of Rockhold's kick.
The clock says 0:40 in the 5 round
Luke Rockhold shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Kazushi Sakuraba is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Rockhold into his guard.
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold looks to posture up and open Kazushi Sakuraba's guard...
Kazushi Sakuraba has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked.
The clock says 0:55 in the 5 round
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold 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 Friends Arena (Stockholm, Sweden) is cheering him!
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold tries to open Sakuraba's guard...
Sakuraba breaks the lock and covers himself from Rockhold's punches
The clock says 1:15 in the 5 round
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
You have to give credit to the match-maker for putting on such an even fight.
Sakuraba measures the resilience of Rockhold's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Rockhold's side.
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Rockhold delivers a few accurate elbows!
Kazushi Sakuraba blocks them all showing some great skills here.
Sakuraba is trying to counter now!
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to trap Luke Rockhold in his guard.
Luke Rockhold keeps control and remains in side mount.
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold looks to pass to mount...
Rockhold slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Kazushi Sakuraba.
The clock says 1:50 in the 5 round
Luke Rockhold is in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Rockhold positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
One, two, three! Sakuraba's being punished here!
Sakuraba can't see anything with that swollen right eye.
Winner is Luke Rockhold by TKO (Stoppage - Swollen Eye) at 2:03 Round 5
Statistics: Luke Rockhold
Punches 9/24 (38%)
Kicks 1/5 (20%)
Clinch strikes 4/12 (33%)
Takedowns 3/4 (75%)
GnP strikes 9/26 (35%)
Submissions 9/9 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 774 s
Statistics: Kazushi Sakuraba
Punches 3/11 (27%)
Kicks 3/4 (75%)
Clinch strikes 6/16 (38%)
Takedowns 2/3 (67%)
GnP strikes 10/17 (59%)
Submissions 12/12 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 2/2 (100%)
Time on the ground 778 s
Sakuraba did well early winning. Then Rockhold kinda fought back, but both guys are really strong and tough. Eventually Saki's toughness may have been his downfall as he kept taking it on the face until his face was too swollen to see.Hence stoppage.
Kazushi Sakuraba looks very relaxed.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
Sakuraba is the fighter that will win today if we pay attention to the bets.
The referee of the bout is Dan Miragliotta.
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Round 1
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Luke Rockhold and Kazushi Sakuraba touch gloves in the center to get this fight started!
Sakuraba moves forward looking for some action
Kazushi Sakuraba shows some wrestling skills as he put his opponent in a double overhook!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rockhold struggles and launches a few punches to Sakuraba's head
Nothing from this... Luke Rockhold seems frustrated.
The fighters are clinching.
Luke Rockhold shoots and grab Kazushi Sakuraba's ankle trying to take him down with a Heel Trip Reversal
Rockhold scoop up Kazushi Sakuraba's ankle with one hand and pushes his body with another forcing Sakuraba to the mat
The clock says 0:40 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
The clock says 0:50 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold is in closed guard... Sakuraba tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Luke Rockhold!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in full mount over Luke Rockhold
Luke Rockhold tries to roll on the ground...
He makes a reversal!
The clock says 1:15 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold 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 Friends Arena (Stockholm, Sweden) is cheering him!
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to trap Luke Rockhold in his guard.
Kazushi Sakuraba manages to switch to half guard.
The clock says 1:35 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Stand up! This is what Rockhold's cornermen are shouting. Kazushi Sakuraba is a submission master and he can finish the fight if you mess with him on the ground.
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to move to full guard
Kazushi Sakuraba manages to switch to full guard.
The clock says 1:45 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He is not able to do it
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He is not able to do it
The clock says 2:10 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold tries to better his position on the ground...
Rockhold breaks the closed guard of Kazushi Sakuraba and moves to half guard
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to show some ground skills
Kazushi Sakuraba put Rockhold in half guard.
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to move to full guard
Luke Rockhold keeps good control and remains in half guard.
The clock says 2:50 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold shifts to north-south position and tries to finish with a lock!
Sakuraba pushes Luke Rockhold forward against his back and breaks the lock!
The clock says 3:00 in the 1 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
Sakuraba is in closed guard... Rockhold tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba!
Luke Rockhold is in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba tries to roll to his side and trap Luke Rockhold in his guard...
Luke Rockhold keeps good control and remains in full mount.
The clock says 3:25 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a few punches to Rockhold's cheek from the guard.
Luke Rockhold uses his head to cover the punches and presses his skull forward.
Sakuraba misses a step and Luke Rockhold sees an opportunity to counter him!
Rockhold tries to keep hs position while looking to maybe begin a pounding session...
Luke Rockhold controls the situation despite Kazushi Sakuraba efforts for escaping from the full mount.
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
The clock says 3:35 in the 1 round
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a low kick
that almost wrenches Rockhold's knee!
Luke Rockhold tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Sakuraba is unable to remain on his feet and falls to the ground
That punishment by Luke Rockhold has left Sakuraba staggered! Luke Rockhold should try push forward now and finish this!
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba overhooks an arm and starts cranking! Interesting meneuver.
Rockhold pulls his arm out of danger.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba measures the resilience of Rockhold's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Rockhold's side.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He is not able to do it
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba measures the resilience of Rockhold's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Rockhold's side.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
Sakuraba's attempts to cover himself and blocks those elbows.
The clock says 4:55 in the 1 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold tries to improve position.
He frees a leg.
Dan Miragliotta separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
Close round. It could go to either fighter.
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Round 2
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Kazushi Sakuraba moves forward looking for some grappling action
Rockhold pushes his opponent and keep the fight at striking range
Brilliant combination from Kazushi Sakuraba
Rockhold is showing some dodging skills avoiding that ones.
Kazushi Sakuraba gets sloppy and Luke Rockhold tries to take advantage...
Rockhold throws a hook
that hits its mark.
Sakuraba's Left cheek is bruised after the punishement he's received!
Incredible high kick!
Sakuraba is worried!
Kazushi Sakuraba fakes a punch and launches himself over Luke Rockhold
Great move by Sakuraba who pushes his opponent under a troublesome thai clinch
Rockhold doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Kazushi Sakuraba embrace and tries to move away...
Kazushi Sakuraba pushes Rockhold forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Kazushi Sakuraba is controlling the clinch and launches a vicious knee!
He was aiming at Rockhold's face but his move was blocked
Sakuraba misses a step and Luke Rockhold sees an opportunity to counter him!
Luke Rockhold is controlling the clinch and launches a vicious knee!
Crushing blow to Sakuraba's face.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in good position and is looking to change levels for the takedown...
Sakuraba catches an ankle and Rockhold is tripped to the mat!
Crushing shot to Rockhold's body! He's holding his side
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
You can hear the excitement from the crowd. Luke Rockhold can end the fight with his ground and pound.
Luke Rockhold isolates an arm in a kimura attempt!
Sakuraba blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Rockhold's guard.
The clock says 1:30 in the 2 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Good looking punches from Kazushi Sakuraba on the ground
deflected by Rockhold.
Sakuraba misses a step and Luke Rockhold sees an opportunity to counter him!
Luke Rockhold overhooks an arm and starts cranking! Interesting meneuver.
Sakuraba pulls his arm out of danger.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Sakuraba is moving on the ground...
Ouch! That was a headbutt! Did he do that intentionally?
Dan Miragliotta didn't see the foul!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Luke Rockhold tries to turn in and scramble out. Kazushi Sakuraba timed him perfectly and locks up a guillotine!
Luke Rockhold slips his head out and manages to gain top control.
Kazushi Sakuraba gets sloppy and Luke Rockhold tries to take advantage...
Rockhold measures the resilience of Sakuraba's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Sakuraba's side.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Luke Rockhold tries to turn in and scramble out. Kazushi Sakuraba timed him perfectly and locks up a guillotine!
Luke Rockhold slips his head out and manages to gain top control.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold tries to escape from the closed guard
Rockhold succeeds and he's now in open guard... he takes a second to breathe
The clock says 2:35 in the 2 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba measures the resilience of Rockhold's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Rockhold's side.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He is not able to do it
The clock says 2:50 in the 2 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold tries to escape from closed guard...
Rockhold struggles to liberate his leg and jumps to half guard!
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Rockhold struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Sakuraba misses a step and Luke Rockhold sees an opportunity to counter him!
Luke Rockhold tries to pass Kazushi Sakuraba's guard...
Luke Rockhold passes momentarily but Kazushi Sakuraba sees and opening and traps him in full guard.
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a few punches to Rockhold's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Rockhold tries to cover his face,
There is a small laceration on Luke Rockhold's Left cheek
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba is taking this opportunity to rest.
The clock says 3:40 in the 2 round
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Kazushi Sakuraba sits up and gets an arm around Rockhold's neck!
Rockhold pushes Kazushi Sakuraba back to the ground.
Sakuraba clumsily fails here and it's time for Luke Rockhold to fight back!
Luke Rockhold tries to better his position on the ground...
Sakuraba holds Luke Rockhold's head against his chin in the closed guard.
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold is in closed guard... Sakuraba tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Luke Rockhold!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in full mount over Luke Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba throws the leg over and rolls it over into an armbar!
Rockhold breaks the lock showing some skills...
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.
Lightning fast low kick from Sakuraba!
Loud pop! I'm sure that hurts!
Sakuraba jumps over his opponent and tries to grapple
Kazushi Sakuraba pushes his opponent against the fence in a plum position
The clock says 4:25 in the 2 round
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rockhold tries to break the clinch... Kazushi Sakuraba launches a great knee when he finds a narrow space!
Awesome impact! Rockhold stumbles backwards and Kazushi Sakuraba shoots an incredible takedown!
The clock says 4:30 in the 2 round
Kazushi Sakuraba fakes a punch and launches himself over Luke Rockhold
Great move by Sakuraba who pushes his opponent under a troublesome thai clinch
The clock says 4:40 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
Sakuraba tries a flying knee towards Luke Rockhold's chest
what a move the impact sents Rockhold to the fence
Rockhold ribs are getting hammered, they look bad!
The clock says 4:50 in the 2 round
Kazushi Sakuraba moves forward looking for some grappling action
Sakuraba has his opponent in a text book double collar thai clinch!
Rockhold doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Kazushi Sakuraba embrace and tries to move away...
Kazushi Sakuraba pushes Rockhold forward and doesn't allow him to break the clinch.
The clock says 4:55 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
Sakuraba doesn't want to clinch as he ducks under Luke Rockhold embrace and tries to move away...
Nice move from Sakuraba who put distance between them
Dan Miragliotta tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.
I don't think either fighter got the better of their opponent that round.
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Round 3
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Rockhold is holding Kazushi Sakuraba's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Kazushi Sakuraba shows great balance while pushing away Luke Rockhold
Rockhold misses a step and Kazushi Sakuraba sees an opportunity to counter him!
Sakuraba wants to close the range and tries to grapple...
Nice move. He shoves himself over his opponent and secure a single collar tie.
The fighters are clinching.
Sakuraba charge towards Luke Rockhold with a flying knee
Luke Rockhold got hit in the chest and the impact sent him to the mat
Sakuraba is standing while Rockhold is on the ground on his back
Kazushi Sakuraba opts to go after his opponent and jumps inside Rockhold's guard.
Rockhold didn't see that coming. Sakuraba is in open guard over Rockhold now.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in open guard over Rockhold
Rockhold tries to close his guard around Sakuraba
He succeeds!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba tries to better his position on the ground...
Sakuraba breaks the closed guard of Luke Rockhold and moves to half guard
Kazushi Sakuraba is in side mount over Luke Rockhold
Luke Rockhold tries to turn in and scramble out. Kazushi Sakuraba timed him perfectly and locks up a guillotine!
Luke Rockhold slips his head out and manages to gain top control.
The clock says 1:20 in the 3 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold tries to improve position.
Sakuraba adjusts and closes his guard.
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Rockhold struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Kazushi Sakuraba gets sloppy and Luke Rockhold tries to take advantage...
Rockhold tries to escape from closed guard...
Sakuraba waits for the moment and tries to roll! Too late for Luke Rockhold! He is reversed and nor Kazushi Sakuraba is on half guard!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba tries a kimura
That kimura looks tight...
Rockhold breaks the lock.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in side mount over Luke Rockhold
Luke Rockhold attempts to trap Kazushi Sakuraba in his guard.
Luke Rockhold manages to switch to full guard.
The clock says 2:00 in the 3 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
Rockhold measures the resilience of Sakuraba's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Sakuraba's side.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
Sakuraba struggles on the ground and tries to break Luke Rockhold's guard...
Rockhold doesn't want to free his opponent and Sakuraba continues in closed guard
Kazushi Sakuraba gets sloppy and Luke Rockhold tries to take advantage...
Rockhold attempts a triangle from bottom! Kazushi Sakuraba slips out. Rockhold quickly turns his hips over and switches to the armbar! He's throwing everything at him.
Kazushi Sakuraba slips out and backs away to avoid danger.
Dan Miragliotta halts the fight to stand up Kazushi Sakuraba. 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.
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a low kick
that gets blocked quickly.
Several good body shots
are evaded by Sakuraba.
Poorly executed technique. Kazushi Sakuraba looks to counter!
Sakuraba wants to take the fight to his advantage and tries to clinch.
Sakuraba moves forward and holds Rockhold
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Sakuraba tries to take Luke Rockhold down... Rockhold stumbles backwards and Kazushi Sakuraba launches a few punches...
Luke Rockhold dodges and moves away a couple of steps...
Sakuraba launches a stiff jab!
That barely hits Rockhold's face but it seems like one finger has poked his eye! Does the referee see that?
Dan Miragliotta didn't see that!
Luke Rockhold shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Kazushi Sakuraba is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Rockhold into his guard.
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold is looking to pass Kazushi Sakuraba's guard...
Luke Rockhold gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold hooks Sakuraba's right leg and sits back for a kneebar!
Kazushi Sakuraba manages to kick Rockhold away and scrambles on top!
Luke Rockhold gets sloppy and Kazushi Sakuraba tries to take advantage...
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to move to full guard
Kazushi Sakuraba manages to switch to full guard.
The clock says 3:25 in the 3 round
Luke Rockhold is in open guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to close his guard around Rockhold
He succeeds!
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold is looking to pass Kazushi Sakuraba's guard...
Luke Rockhold gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold pushes Sakuraba's leg and tries to move to full mount.
Nice move by Rockhold who is in full mount! Sakuraba is in trouble now!
Luke Rockhold is in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold isolates Kazushi Sakuraba's arm and neck looking for an arm triangle
Kazushi Sakuraba is able to relieve the pressure on his neck and slip out of the hold.
Luke Rockhold is in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Sakuraba tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
He successfully moves to half guard!
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
The fans are in for a real treat now. It's always fun to watch Kazushi Sakuraba work his BJJ game.
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to move to full guard
Luke Rockhold keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Sakuraba reaches under and rolls for a kneebar!
Rockhold blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard.
Poorly executed technique. Luke Rockhold looks to counter!
Rockhold leans back...
Sakuraba eyes him warily.
Luke Rockhold is in half guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold tries to free his leg...
Sakuraba doesn't allow any movement here! He's cooling the fight on the ground.
Poorly executed technique. Kazushi Sakuraba looks to counter!
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to move to full guard
Kazushi Sakuraba manages to switch to full guard.
Dan Miragliotta 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.
Sakuraba wants to take the fight to his advantage and tries to clinch.
Sakuraba moves forward and holds Rockhold
Luke Rockhold tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
Sakuraba is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position.
Dan Miragliotta tells the fighters to go to their corners as the round is over.
The round is for Rockhold, who walks calmly to his corner.
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Round 4
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As the fight continues it seems that Luke Rockhold is taking the best of the fight.
Luke Rockhold launches a low kick
that gets blocked quickly.
Poorly executed technique. Kazushi Sakuraba looks to counter!
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a low kick
that almost wrenches Rockhold's knee!
Luke Rockhold swings...
hard impact to Sakuraba's face!
The clock says 0:30 in the 4 round
The two exchange wildly
Rockhold is connecting with a few punches
Sakuraba tries to grapple
He puts Rockhold in a double underhook!
The fighters are clinching.
Sakuraba grab one of Luke Rockhold's arm and tries a Hip Throw
Rockhold done well to maintain his balances and avoid going down
The fighters are clinching.
Rockhold and Kazushi Sakuraba are cliched up against the cage. Rockhold steps for a throw
Sakuraba stays on his feet
Rockhold misses a step and Kazushi Sakuraba sees an opportunity to counter him!
Sakuraba tries to take Luke Rockhold down... Rockhold stumbles backwards and Kazushi Sakuraba launches a few punches...
One swing hits hard Rockhold's jaw!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Rockhold launches a few hard punches to Kazushi Sakuraba's ribs!
Kazushi Sakuraba's ribs shows the damage! Luke Rockhold is working his opponent ribs!
The fighters are clinching.
Rockhold launches a few hard punches to Kazushi Sakuraba's ribs!
Sakuraba struggles and protects himself.
The fighters are clinching.
Sakuraba tries to break the clinch... Luke Rockhold launches a great knee when he finds a narrow space!
Awesome impact! Sakuraba stumbles backwards and Luke Rockhold shoots an incredible takedown!
Kazushi Sakuraba fakes a punch and launches himself over Luke Rockhold
Great move by Sakuraba who pushes his opponent under a troublesome thai clinch
Luke Rockhold tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
Rockhold circles out and slips free of Kazushi Sakuraba's grip. Nice job of getting out of that position.
Luke Rockhold launches a couples of jabs and then a big hook!
Sakuraba blocks the jabs but the last punch hits hard on Kazushi Sakuraba's cheek! Sakuraba stumbles and the falls to the mat!
The clock says 2:05 in the 4 round
Rockhold is standing while Sakuraba is on the ground on his back
Luke Rockhold creates space and allows Kazushi Sakuraba to stand up.
Back to the beginning! Kazushi Sakuraba is standing now.
The clock says 2:15 in the 4 round
Luke Rockhold chases Sakuraba and launches a few perfect strikes
Here we go! Sakuraba steps backwards when those punches connect with his face
The clock says 2:25 in the 4 round
Sakuraba is holding Luke Rockhold's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Luke Rockhold loses balance and goes to the ground.
Rockhold's left arm is getting wrenched, it appears to be injured
Kazushi Sakuraba is in side mount over Luke Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba looks to mount Luke Rockhold...
Luke Rockhold takes advantage of his opponent's over commitment and traps him in full guard.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in open guard over Rockhold
Rockhold tries to close his guard around Sakuraba
He succeeds!
Kazushi Sakuraba is in closed guard over Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba looks to posture up and open Luke Rockhold's guard...
Kazushi Sakuraba forces Luke Rockhold to open his guard.
Kazushi Sakuraba is in open guard over Rockhold
Luke Rockhold launches a few punches to Sakuraba's cheek from the guard.
Those punches sure are annoying because Sakuraba tries to cover his face,
Kazushi Sakuraba is in open guard over Rockhold
Sakuraba moves on the ground..
He gets half guard.
The clock says 3:30 in the 4 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Rockhold switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Sakuraba struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
The clock says 3:40 in the 4 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba tries a kimura
Rockhold breaks the lock.
Rockhold tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Luke Rockhold isolates an arm in a kimura attempt!
Sakuraba blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Rockhold's guard.
The clock says 3:50 in the 4 round
Kazushi Sakuraba is in half guard over Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba isolates Luke Rockhold's arm and neck looking for an arm triangle
Luke Rockhold is able to relieve the pressure on his neck and slip out of the hold.
Poorly executed technique. Luke Rockhold looks to counter!
Rockhold throws his legs up in a triangle attempt!
Kazushi Sakuraba realizes the danger and stands up to avoid the attack.
Dan Miragliotta halts the fight to stand up Kazushi Sakuraba. 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.
Kazushi Sakuraba takes a few seconds to recover his breath...
The fight is still up for grabs at this point.
Sakuraba attempts a shoot
but stops before running into Rockhold's kick.
Luke Rockhold attempts to cut off Sakuraba with punches
Sakuraba avoids getting cornered.
Sakuraba tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Sakuraba moves forward looking for some action
Kazushi Sakuraba shows some wrestling skills as he put his opponent in a double overhook!
The fighters are clinching.
Kazushi Sakuraba launches a few punches towards Rockhold's ribs while holds him in a double overhooks!
Rockhold seems unaffected... those punches doesn't carry any power!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Nice fight between these two warriors. Anyone could be the winner.
Luke Rockhold pushes away Sakuraba trying to keep the fight at striking range
Sakuraba doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Luke Rockhold
Poorly executed technique. Kazushi Sakuraba looks to counter!
Kazushi Sakuraba pushes away Rockhold trying to keep the fight at striking range
Rockhold stumbles backwards and Kazushi Sakuraba circles to get the center of the cage
Kazushi Sakuraba circles around Rockhold
Kazushi Sakuraba takes a few seconds to recover his breath...
Dan Miragliotta separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
Sakuraba is the winner of this round.
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Round 5
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The clock says 0:10 in the 5 round
Lightning fast low kick from Rockhold!
Sakuraba blocks that kick with his leg.
The clock says 0:20 in the 5 round
Kazushi Sakuraba and Rockhold engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Kazushi Sakuraba is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows.
A bad move from Kazushi Sakuraba
almost puts his head in the path of Rockhold's kick.
The clock says 0:40 in the 5 round
Luke Rockhold shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Kazushi Sakuraba is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Rockhold into his guard.
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold looks to posture up and open Kazushi Sakuraba's guard...
Kazushi Sakuraba has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked.
The clock says 0:55 in the 5 round
Luke Rockhold is in closed guard over Sakuraba
Rockhold 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 Friends Arena (Stockholm, Sweden) is cheering him!
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold tries to open Sakuraba's guard...
Sakuraba breaks the lock and covers himself from Rockhold's punches
The clock says 1:15 in the 5 round
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
You have to give credit to the match-maker for putting on such an even fight.
Sakuraba measures the resilience of Rockhold's ribs with a couple of big punches from guard.
Those hits are leaving hitches in Rockhold's side.
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Rockhold delivers a few accurate elbows!
Kazushi Sakuraba blocks them all showing some great skills here.
Sakuraba is trying to counter now!
Kazushi Sakuraba attempts to trap Luke Rockhold in his guard.
Luke Rockhold keeps control and remains in side mount.
Luke Rockhold is in side mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Luke Rockhold looks to pass to mount...
Rockhold slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Kazushi Sakuraba.
The clock says 1:50 in the 5 round
Luke Rockhold is in full mount over Kazushi Sakuraba
Rockhold positions himself for a round of ground and pound and tries to finish the fight with some precise elbows!
One, two, three! Sakuraba's being punished here!
Sakuraba can't see anything with that swollen right eye.
Winner is Luke Rockhold by TKO (Stoppage - Swollen Eye) at 2:03 Round 5
Statistics: Luke Rockhold
Punches 9/24 (38%)
Kicks 1/5 (20%)
Clinch strikes 4/12 (33%)
Takedowns 3/4 (75%)
GnP strikes 9/26 (35%)
Submissions 9/9 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 774 s
Statistics: Kazushi Sakuraba
Punches 3/11 (27%)
Kicks 3/4 (75%)
Clinch strikes 6/16 (38%)
Takedowns 2/3 (67%)
GnP strikes 10/17 (59%)
Submissions 12/12 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 2/2 (100%)
Time on the ground 778 s
Sakuraba did well early winning. Then Rockhold kinda fought back, but both guys are really strong and tough. Eventually Saki's toughness may have been his downfall as he kept taking it on the face until his face was too swollen to see.Hence stoppage.
Have 9 points in celebration of this monumental achievement!