Post by Diamondhead Media Group on Jul 16, 2011 1:47:42 GMT -6
SPIRIT FC 7: HEROINE! 1
Dodge Theater, Phoenix, Arizona
UNDER CARD
MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUTFEA
Margaret Buckley(0-0-0) -VS- Umedo Yamada(0-0-0)
WINNER: Margaret Buckley at 1:21 of Round 1 via KO (Punch)
FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT
Keiko Tsukushida(0-0-0) -VS- Emily Prizino(0-0-0)
WINNER: "Eyes on the Prize" Emily Prizino at 5:00 of Round 3 via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 30-27, 29-28)
FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT
Kaede Maki(0-2-0) -VS- Rosalina Pereira(0-1-0)
WINNER: Kaede Maki at 0:21 of Round 3 via KO (Punches)
LIGHTWEIGHT BOUT
Shizuka Komatsu(0-2-0) -VS- Erin Samuels(0-3-0)
WINNER: Shizuka Komatsu at 3:12 of Round 1 via TKO (Ground & Pound)
LIGHTWEIGHT BOUT
Megumi Shibata(1-2-0) -VS- Clementina Vargas(1-2-0)
WINNER: Megumi Shibata at 2:46 of Round 1 via KO (Punch)
MAIN CARD
MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUT
"Lethal" LaKisha Jackson(1-0-0) -VS- "The Siberian Predator" Fedora Vasilyev(1-2-0)
Fedora: LaKisha's trash talking doesn't bother me. My record speaks for itself. One win and two losses isn't anything to write home about. I have a lot of work to do. But my focus is on this fight, and beating my opponent in convincing fashion. I can't look past her.
LaKisha: Fedora Vasilyev is a stepping stone for me, believe it or not. Sure she got a win under her belt, but that's all she's got. Soon I'll be two and oh, and there's nothin' she can do about it. I'm gonna' wreck her.
"LETHAL" LAKISHA JACKSON
Origin: USA
Height: 6'
Weight: 160 lbs
Record: 1-0-0
Strengths: Muay Thai, Ground & Pound, Submission Defense
"THE SIBERIAN PREDATOR" FEDORA VASILYEV
Origin: RUS
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 160 lbs
Record: 1-2-0
Strengths: Sambo, Judo
ROUND ONE:
Jackson came out right away with a front kick, causing Vasilyev to stumble. She then connected with a high kick, which lacerated Fedora's left eye. The referee said to fight on, however. Jackson then shot in, trying to grab a Thai clinch. Fedora ducked it though, and tried to move away, but LaKisha pushed her against the cage. Fedora continued to try to get out of that position, but found herself in the aforementioned Thai clinch that she earlier avoided, at which point Jackson threw a knee to the midsection - a little too low. Seeing that she was in pain, the referee pulled them apart and gave Fedora some time. She didn't need much though, and the fight quickly resumed.
Jackson then tried a middle kick, but Vasilyev was able to evade it, and took advantage of the miss by shooting in for a successful double leg takedown. LaKisha immediately closed her guard, and tried to roll Vasilyev over, but The Siberian Predator blocked it. Vasilyev then tried to pass her guard, and succeeded only for a moment, before LaKisha regained her full guard again. Jackson tried rolling Fedora over again, but had no better luck than the previous time, but also failed to maintain her closed guard. But fortunately for her, Fedora didn't take advantage of it. LaKisha then distracted her with some shots from the bottom, before closing her guard once more. The referee then stood both women up at that point though, much to the approval of the fans.
LaKisha then clinched up, pressing the attack once again. Her first knee to the body was only a glancing blow, but her second did much more damage. She then distracted Fedora with a couple faked punches, before landing another big knee to the body, forcing Vasilyev to wince in pain. Jackson then backed Vasilyev into the cage and held her there before the ref pulled them apart again. Jackson went back for the clinch, but Fedora avoided it, wanting no part of it anymore. Creating distance between the two, Vasilyev evaded a big punch from "Lethal" LaKisha, before doing her best to establish the range with punches of her own. But then in a foolish move, Vasilyev went back to the clinch. She soon paid for it with three big knees to the body, and then another to Fedora's chin staggered her. Jackson then leapt in with a flying knee to the chest, staggering her again. Jackson kept it up with a big right hand that dropped Vasilyev.
The referee determined that Fedora was still in the fight though, and Jackson stepped back - allowing Vasilyev to return to her feet. LaKisha clinched again, this time with double overhooks. Fedora tried to get out of it, but LaKisha wouldn't allow it. Another knee to the body sent Fedora to the mat again, and the referee stopped the fight.
WINNER: "Lethal" LaKisha Jackson at 4:48 of Round 1 via TKO (Flying Knee)
FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT
"Spitfire" Kyra Braddock(2-2-0) -VS- Azumi Tanaka(1-0-0)
Kyra: I know what you're thinking, "look at the stupid Brit with no groundfighting skills." Sure my ground skills aren't what they should be. But I'm two and two, and feeling good. Stick your head up from behind your gloves, and we'll see how long you last.
Azumi: This may be my second fight in as many cards, but I'm ready. The long time off gave me time to train and improve my skills. Contrary to what Braddock might think, I'm looking forward to a good stand-up fight with her tonight.
"SPITFIRE" KYRA BRADDOCK
Origin: UK
Height: 5'1"
Weight: 105 lbs
Record: 2-2-0
Strengths: Kickboxing, Ground & Pound, Strength
AZUMI TANAKA
Origin: JPN
Height: 5'5"
Weight: 121 lbs
Record: 1-0-0
Strengths: Takedowns, Clinch Grappling, Conditioning
ROUND ONE:
Tanaka started things off with a few tentative punches. Braddock answers with some hard punches of her own, staggering Azumi. Braddock kept it up, getting increasingly confident as she kept landing bombs - causing Azumi's left cheek to swell. Kyra then went to work, landing a series of jabs, before hitting Tanaka with a big hook. Azumi managed to block the jabs, but couldn't stop the hook as she stumbled and fell to the mat. Azumi returned to her feet quickly, but Kyra kept up the attack with more right hands. She then completed the combo with another hook, which caught Tanaka off-balance and caused her to slip. Intent on keeping the fight on their feet, Braddock gestured for Azumi to get up. When she did, Azumi tried for a body shot but missed, while Braddock countered with a cross. Tanaka then missed with what would have been a nasty high kick; but soon lunged forward and caught Braddock in a clinch, before trying for a single leg takedown and succeeding.
Azumi then rained down a few shots, but Kyra made sure none of them found the mark, before finally pulling Tanaka down and closing her guard. She then tried to roll Tanaka over and succeeded, ending up in full mount. The Spitfire then went to town on Azumi with vicious elbows, which Tanaka was unable to defend against. The referee was in perfect position, threatening to stop the fight. Out of desperation, Tanaka fought back with several shots to Braddock's ribs, but Kyra was able to block them all. She kept trying, but kept failing as Kyra kept blocking the punches. It was later translated that Tanaka's corner was yelling for her to get out of the bad position, and she quickly responded with an escape attempt. Braddock prevented it though, and further advanced her position into side control. Tanaka continued trying to escape, but Braddock was able to hold her down every time, before landing several big hammerfists to Azumi's face. She then transitioned back into full mount, the referee soon pulled her off after an illegal headbutt and deducted a point for the foul. After giving Tanaka time to recover from the illegal blow, the fight resumed.
Azumi then faked a punch and tried for a clinch, but Braddock blocked it and pushed Tanaka away. The two had a brief exchange of punches from there, but it was clear that Braddock got the better of it. She then went back to her series of jabs followed by a hook, and again Tanaka couldn't defend against the hook as it knocked her to the mat with a cut on her cheek. Tanaka seemed groggy and uncoordinated at that point. With Azumi defending herself from her back, Kyra connected with two kicks to the thighs. Tanaka tried to kick her away of course, but it only gave her enough time to return to her feet. The referee stepped in at that point to end the round as both women went to their corners.
ROUND TWO:
Kyra came out swinging in the second round, and found immediate success as Tanaka stumbled from the initial blow. Braddock followed it up with more jabs and another massive hook that floored Tanaka, resulting in a quick KO ending to the second round.
WINNER: "Spitfire" Kyra Braddock at 0:45 of Round 2 via KO (Hook)
FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT
"Blood Plague" Hitomi Akera(1-1-0) -VS- "Red Irish" Tesla St. James(2-1-0)
Hitomi: I am a great fighter. So when I say that a one and one record is a disappointment to me, I mean it with the utmost sincerity. My record should be unblemished right now, but it's not. And it never will be again. But if I beat St. James here tonight, I begin a streak that may someday rival it.
Tesla: This fight is very important for both of us. Whoever wins will surely be in line as one of the top contendors for the Featherweight Title. But at the same time, a loss could knock us down the rankings quite a bit. Hitomi is a world-class fighter, but I have to be even better.
"BLOOD PLAGUE" HITOMI AKERA
Origin: JPN
Height: 5'1"
Weight: 115
Record: 1-1-0
Strengths: Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Ground & Pound
"RED IRISH" TESLA ST. JAMES
Origin: CAN
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 120 lbs
Record: 2-1-0
Strengths: Submissions Specialist, Big Heart
ROUND ONE:
Akera quickly closed the distance with a middle kick to the ribs, but Red Irish blocked it with her arm. Hitomi then went for a single leg, and was able to get Tesla down on the mat in open guard. There she wasted no time, immediately going for a kneebar. Tesla tried to roll out of it, but was only able to succeed after a few kicks before returning to her feet. The ref backed her up at that point, allowing Hitomi to get up as well. But she immediately went for the single leg again, and this time transitioned into a heel hook upon its success. But St. James was able to prevent that as well, at which point she closed her guard. Akera tried to force it open again, but St. James wouldn't allow it. Tesla then overhooked an arm and began to crank on it before Hitomi finally pulled it free. St. James then went for an armbar from the bottom, but Akera was able to break free of it as well, while moving to side control in the process. However, Tesla managed to maneuver herself back into half-guard. Hitomi tried to pass it, and succeeded for a minute or two, but St. James worked her way back into half-guard again.
Hitomi changed her approach at that point, hooking St. James' right leg and sitting back for a kneebar. The two struggled in the hold for a minute, before Tesla kicked her way out of the hold - pushing Hitomi away - and instantly scrambled for top position. From the open guard, Tesla tried to move into full mount, but Akera was able to prevent it. But when she tried to close guard, St. James prevented that in return. Akera then fired several hard shots from the bottom, which seemed to do some damage. St. James then went for a kneebar, but Hitomi escaped. As she returned to her feet, Tesla shot in with another single leg and scored the takedown again - this time ending up in side control. However, Hitomi was soon able to get her into half-guard and trapped St. James' leg there when Tesla tried to improve her position. St. James delivered several punches at that point, before finally breaking the half-guard and transitioning all the way to north-south - where she attempted a choke. Akera pushed her forward though, and exploded out, rolling Tesla onto her back and transitioning to the top position where Red Irish closed her guard.
After isolating Hitomi's arm from the bottom, Tesla then attempted a kimura that was also blocked, and lead to Akera passing to half-guard. Hitomi tried her own kimura from the top position, but St. James blocked that as well, before working her legs up to attempt a triangle choke. However, Akera was able to posture up before she could lock it in, making it impossible for Tesla to continue applying pressure. Akera then rained down several big hammerfists before Tesla finally covered up. Then Hitomi threw a couple punches, but St. James caught the incoming arms, trapping them before attempting the triangle again. This time Akera stood up though, and the ref stepped in to give St. James space to get up as well. Akera pushed forward, but St. James caught her with an uppercut to the chin, stunning her. St. James then went back down for another single leg, and took Hitomi down again after both women struggled momentarily, with St. James landing in side control again. Akera had enough of the ground game for now though, as she tried to turn and scramble back to her feet. But instead, Tesla took her back, and tried to lock in a rear naked choke. But again Hitomi escaped, spinning out of the hold before Tesla could lock it in, and returning to her feet - with Tesla coming up after her. Before either woman could try anything else though, the referee stepped in to end the round.
ROUND TWO:
Akera came out with a faked punch and then ducked for a takedown. Tesla reacted to the fake, and was unready for the takedown as a result. Hitomi then passed from Tesla's open guard to half-guard, but then struggled in her attempts to move to side control. Both women traded punches as they returned to their feet. Tesla then tried to establish her range a bit, before the two circled eachother momentarily, both tentative about what they should do next. Hitomi then threw a jab, and while it only barely connected, a finger went into her eye. The referee called for time, giving St. James time to recover, while taking away a point from Hitomi as he believed it was intentional. When the fight continued, Tesla grabbed Akera's arm while leaping into the air and wrapping her leg around Hitomi's write shoulder in a flying omoplata attempt. Hitomi blocked it though, leaving Tesla down on the mat. Akera then tried jump into St. James' guard, but Tesla was able to shove her off, and then counter with an up-kick right in the face - snapping Hitomi's head back.
Tesla then kicked at Akera's legs, followed by another kick to the body. Hitomi tried to get in St. James' guard again, but was pushed off once more, and takes several more kicks for her troubles. But the third attempt proved to be the charm, as St. James was unable to push Hitomi off this time, Red Irish reacted by switching her position to high guard though, and went back to trying for her triangle choke. She almost had it cinched in too, as Hitomi's face was turning red before she finally slipped her head free. St. James then closed her guard at that point, and when Hitomi tried to get out of it, St. James rolled her over into half-guard. The two battled for position from there, with Tesla eventually gaining side control before Hitomi got her back to half-guard. The ref stood them up at that point, but then St. James took the fight right back to the ground again with another takedown.
Securing St. James' arm, Hitomi tried to apply an armbar from the bottom. Tesla in turn spinned out, but Akera seemed to have anticipated the move, as she switched to a triangle. Tesla quickly got out of harm's way though, and returned to her feet. With Tesla up and Hitomi down, Akera attempted an up-kick to the face, but St. James was able to lean backwards and avoid it. Tesla then stepped back, and Akera returned to her feet. The two then traded punches, with Akera trying to time hers to counter St. James', but she was clearly taking a majority of the damage after St. James unleashed a big combo. Tesla showed that she could stand up and bang almost as well as she could work on the ground, as she circled around Hitomi, avoiding much of her attacks before leaning in for a right hand and then a big hook that dropped Akera. Then in a shocking moment, St. James performed a cartwheel, landing in side control on a surprised Hitomi Akera. From there she tried repeatedly to move into full mount, but Hitomi wasn't making it easy for her. The round finally came to an end at that point, with somewhat of a deadlock between the two. But suffice it to say, Akera was clearly growing tired from the relentless pace. The referee stood both women up and they retreated to their respective corners.
ROUND THREE:
After both women came out of their corners, Tesla clinched up before trying for a lower leg sweep. Hitomi tried to prevent being taken down, but Tesla powered through and attained top position. Akera then closed her guard and started working on getting an overhook on one of St. James' arms, which she then proceeded to crank on. But both women were sweaty at that point, and Red Irish was able to pull her arm free relatively easily. Red Irish then began work on breaking out of Akera's closed guard, ultimately succeeding by moving to half-guard. Hitomi tried to regain full guard, but Tesla refused to let her have it. Hitomi next tried for an armbar, but again St. James was able to pull her arm free, while transitioning to side control at the same time. Hitomi continued trying to improve her position, but only succeeded after multiple attempts. Tesla in turn them worked her way back into half-guard, and tried to get Hitomi into an armbar of her own. However, Akera sat up and was able to pull her arm out as well. But St. James kept working for it, until Akera was able to turn the tables on her - getting her arm out of trouble while rolling St. James over at the same time - Akera ending up in her closed guard. The two fought for position there for a bit, with the referee finally standing both women up.
St. James then fired off a quick low kick, but Hitomi was able to block it, before clinching up with Red Irish in return. She fired off several knees from there, but St. James blocked each of them before the two were at a stalemate again, forcing the ref to pull them apart once more. Both women were showing signs of fatigue at that point, as the ref instructed them to keep working. After circling a bit, Akera then threw a punch which St. James avoided, and then Tesla countered with an uppercut that found its mark. A second one was blocked, however. But when Hitomi tried to answer it, Tesla was already circling out of her reach. Hitomi then missed with a body shot, before Red Irish answered via a left cross. And Hitomi fired back with some more shots of her own. St. James then lunged for Akera's right leg, attempting a foot lock, but after the two struggled momentarily, Hitomi was able to pull her foot free - leaving Tesla down on the mat. St. James did her best to keep Akera at bay, landing a kick to the legs and then one to the body, before connecting with an up-kick to the face that sent Hitomi staggering back. But before Tesla could get back to her feet, Akera moved in again, and took several more kicks including another unprotected to the face. This time, St. James had enough time to get back to her feet before Hitomi could respond.
For some reason, Tesla made the same mistake a second time, going for a rolling kneebar as soon as she got to her feet and the ref motioned for the two women to fight on. Once again, Akera was able to get free and clear, leaving Tesla down on the mat yet again. From there, St. James kicked at Akera's knee, but she was out of time as the ref stood her up with the end of the round.
WINNER: "Red Irish" Tesla St. James at 5:00 of Round 3 via Unanimous Decision (29-27, 30-26, 30-26)
LIGHTWEIGHT BOUT
"Nightshade" Sora Kawaii(3-2-0) -VS- "Hunter Killer" Hannah Kristian(2-0-0)
Sora: Hannah Kristian is two and oh for a good reason. She's an excellent fighter. Very good all around skill. But she's going up against one of the best strikers in this company. If she can take my best shot and keep fighting, I'll respect her. The problem is, most people can't.
Hannah: Sora might be barely breaking five hundred in the record books, but I've seen her past fights. She's a warrior, and she doesn't go down easily. I've got to bring my absolute best into this fight, because I know that beating her will be the hardest thing I ever do. But I also know that I CAN do it.
"NIGHTSHADE" SORA KAWAII
Origin: JPN
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 144 lbs
Record: 3-2-0
Strengths: Knockout Punching Power, Submission Defense, Ground & Pound, Toughness
"THE HEROINE" HANNAH KRISTIAN
Origin: USA
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 144 lbs
Record: 2-0-0
Strengths: Excellent Submissions, Kickboxing, Sambo
ROUND ONE:
As the two started out of their corners, Kawaii threw a low kick to the ankle of Kristian, before clinching up. Hannah did her best to push Sora away, more interested in keeping the fight at striking distance, but Kawaii wouldn't let go. Sora then utilized some dirty boxing, focusing on Kristian's ribs and doing some good damage already. Hannah's best defense was to continue trying to break the clinch, but Sora was just too strong. Sora continued unloading on her punches, while at the same time continually preventing Kristian from creating space between them. Sora kept her pressed up against the cage, and now worked her uppercuts, landing several unanswered shots that left Hannah's legs going weak. She was desperate to get out of the bad predicament, but continued to have little success breaking free. Finally the referee separated the two, much to Kristian's delight.
Kawaii then worked the jab from there, trying to find her angles, while Kristian answered every shot in return. Kawaii then started hitting one-two combos, finding her groove and quickly opening a cut on The Heroine's mouth. But she rallied back, closing the distance and getting past Sora's defenses, as she connected with a big uppercut that left Kawaii wobbly. But Sora blocked the next shot as she quickly regained her balance and composure. Hannah then threw a hook, but had no luck finding the mark with it. Kawaii dodged a second one as well, before both women just started throwing bombs at one another, going toe-to-toe in the center of the cage. That is until Sora missed with a punch and Kristian did as well with the counter. Then The Heroine started hitting them again, one, two, three, four unanswered shots stunning Kawaii. Backing up a bit, Sora then fired off another low kick that Hannah checked, but the blow still hurt quite a bit nonetheless. Kristian then tried closing the distance again, but caught an uppercut to the face. She countered with a looping right, but Sora jumped back and answered with a jab that staggered Kristian. Nightshade then capitalized on the advantage, moving in with more jabs and crosses mixed in. Then went back to her low kicks, causing Hannah to hop in pain.
Both women went back to exchanging big blows once more, neither woman giving an inch and both showing the wear and tear from this war. Kawaii started getting a bit cocky at that point, faking a punch and then circling out of Hannah's reach when she threw the counter. Faking and circling. Then went back to the jab, landing several in a row before Hannah retreated momentarily before connecting with an overhand right. The two went back and forth, blow for blow from there. Kawaii took the advantage again with combo, sending Hannah realing but staying upright nonetheless. Then Sora connected with an overhead right of her own. Then a one-two combo, a fake, and a big right hand to the chin. Hannah tried to answer with some of her own shots, but then took another combo, Kawaii just picking her shots and landing them at will at that point. She followed that up with a huge haymaker that staggered Kristian, but she still didn't go down. Sora tried to capitalize, charging in with a fury, but caught a surprising uppercut from Kristian for her troubles.
Sora was hesitant for a brief moment after that, but after the two circled again, Sora came back with a shovel hook to the face that tagged Kristian pretty good, her mouth continuing to bleed from the growing wound. Sora threw a jab next, but her finger inadvertently went into Hannah's eye. Seeing her reaction to the pain, the ref called for a halt to the fight, and gave Kristian time to recover. It took a minute, but the fight soon resumed. At which point Kawaii came right at Kristian again landing more jabs. Then a fake, which she quickly followed up with a liver kick that surely hurt. But it was her hands that were doing the most damage, as Kawaii continued to pick her spots. She looked to be getting ready to put Kristian away, but The Heroine was saved by the sounding of the bell at the end of the round.
ROUND TWO:
Kristian and Kawaii touched gloves in a show of respect to start the second round, before Kawaii went right back to work with her hands - this time landing a big shot to the body, then a couple hooks - focusing on Hannah's ribs. With those shots plus Kawaii's earlier attacks to her ribs, Hannah was having a hard time controlling her breathing. But she fired back with a body shot of her own, battling it out as long as she could. Kawaii dodged it though, and countered with a hard cross. Kawaii then leapt forward, grabbing Kristian in a Thai clinch. Hannah stayed busy though, determined to get out of there once again. But despite her efforts, Sora just wouldn't let her go before finally giving up on the clinch and pushing Hannah away. Hannah stumbled though, which gave Sora time to circle around and take the center of the cage. She then came in with another one-two combo before faking with the left again, and landing another big right to the chin that floors Hannah. Sora immediately jumped on top for a couple more blows to finish the job, but the referee quickly pushed her off. The fight was over.
WINNER: "Nightshade" Sora Kawaii at 1:05 of Round 2 via KO (Punches)
INTERIM MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE BOUT
Myra Benedict(2-2-0) -VS- "Red Diamond" Akane Otsuka(2-0-0)
Myra: My first two losses were by decision, one of them against the real Middleweight Champion, Achika Akatani. And while I have worked hard to regain my spot in the rankings, this isn't how I wanted to fight for a title. My hope was to someday avenge that loss to Akatani. I'm sure Otsuka is chomping at the bit for this opportunity, and she's dominated everyone so far to get here. So while I don't like it, for now, my focus is on this fight and no other.
Akane: You look at my record, and you see only two and oh. But that's only my SPIRIT FC record. But now try twenty-four and oh on for size. MMA is and will always be my sport. And SPIRIT FC was once my company. So it is fitting that I get this shot at the Middleweight Title. And whether my opponent is Achika Akatani or Myra Benedict, it doesn't matter. Because the Middleweight Championship will soon be my mine too.
MYRA BENEDICT
Origin: USA
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 153 lbs
Record: 2-2-0
Strengths: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Well-Rounded, Toughness
"RED DIAMOND" AKANE OTSUKA
Origin: JPN
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 161 lbs
Record: 2-0-0
Strengths: Kickboxing, Strength, Toughness, Good Chin
ROUND ONE:
Benedict started things off with a quick hook, but it only glanced off Otsuka's arm as she threw it up for the block. Myra then circled, and started working her jab, each one countered by Akane. They soon picked up the pace as the punches kept flying, before Akane finished the sequence with a low kick which Myra checked. Otsuka then tried for a push kick, but Myra avoided it and moved in landing some nice punches to the face - staggering the Red Diamond. Sensing that the fight could be over already, Benedict moved in closer and started throwing bombs - each one landing home and rocking Otsuka. The Red Diamond wanted no part of her onslaught as she quickly backpedaled, forcing Benedict to hit air as she chased after. Akane then answered with a looping right hand, but caught a jab to the face at the same time. Myra then dodged a couple more shots, before landing a few of her own. Benedict then took the center of the cage and started pushing Otsuka back with punches - missing some, having others blocked, and landing others. Akane tried circling around, but Myra never let her get the angle she wanted. Benedict landed some more punches, staggering the Red Diamond against the cage. And Myra was content to keep throwing them at her, forcing Akane to cover up to avoid as much punishment as possible. But even that wasn't helping her enough, as Otsuka was getting rocked with Benedict's shots.
Benedict then surprised her, switching tactics as she ducked low for a single leg. The two struggled there against the cage, Otsuka having to be told repeatedly not to hold the cage before Myra finally pivoted and took her down to the mat - landing in side control as well. Seemingly confortable from the bottom, despite being surprised by the takedown, Akane started throwing punches at Myra's ribs. Benedict in turn did her best to block them, while keeping Otsuka busy. Akane kept at it though, doing a fairly good job getting power behind her shots. She then turned her attention from Benedict's ribs to her face, but Myra then worked her way into full mount. The Red Diamond kept working from the bottom though, despite her bad predicament - continuing to throw punches but focusing back on the body again. Having the dominant position, Benedict was able to block most of them though. Nevertheless, Otsuka's relentless barrage from the bottom kept Benedict busy, preventing her from raining down much damage herself - even though those shots weren't doing all that much damage. Otsuka then rolled to her side in an attempt to get Benedict in her half-guard, and succeeded in that endeavor.
Otsuka tried to improve her position further, looking to close her guard, but Benedict was ready for her this time and prevented it. Myra in turn tried to get back to side control, but Akane did a good job tying up her leg to prevent the transition. Benedict proved to be very persistant though, as she kept at it until she finally succeeded and moved to side control. Otsuka went back to working Benedict's exposed body from there - slamming knees into her ribs this time from the bottom. Deciding that she didn't like side control much after that, Myra then moved back to full mount, and tried to lock on an armbar. Otsuka showed how strong she was though, by successfully fighting it off. She held Benedict close, while at the same time peppering her with short punches to the side of Myra's face - forcing her to cover up as best as she could. Benedict then threw her leg, rolling it over for another armbar, but Otsuka broke out of that as well. Myra managed to maintain her full mount, but was still unable to deliver much punishment from that position. Finally, Otsuka exploded out, rolling Myra over into her closed guard.
And now Benedict was doing her best to stay on the attack from the bottom, as she tried to get a kimura from the bottom. She couldn't lock it in though, as Otsuka defended the submission and freed her arm. And in return, the Red Diamond went back to work, delivering more punches to Benedict's body. Myra eventually got a hold of her arms though, preventing her from doing anymore damage before the ref finally stood both women up. On their feet, Otsuka connected with an inside leg kick, but Myra was fast enough to grab the leg before she could retract it, and took Otsuka down to the mat in side control once again. Akane tried to get her into half-guard, but Benedict defended against it as the round came to an end.
ROUND TWO:
Benedict came out to start the second round with a vicious kick that connected. She then threw a faked punch to distract Otsuka, before landing another big head kick - staggering the Red Diamond. Then a third high kick, but Akane wouldn't go down; and even fired back with a kick to the body blocked by Benedict. Myra went to the body with a punch this time, but Akane blocked it, and countered with a big cross, opening a cut on Benedict's nose. Myra didn't seem fazed by it though, as she stayed focused and fired off a lightning fast leg kick unchecked. Then Benedict landed an uppercut that got her a little payback as it lacerated Otsuka's nose. The two threw bombs from there in a wild exchange, neither woman backing down or going down. Otsuka almost kicked Myra's head off with a high kick, but Myra got her arm up to block it. Then ducked low for a double leg takedown - catching Otsuka by surprise and getting her to the mat with ease. Otsuka tried closing her guard to keep Benedict down and minimize her offense, but Myra postured up, making it impossible for her to cross her ankles. At that point, Myra then moved to full mount, and started raining down blow after blow to the head. Otsuka was covering up and trying to grab Benedict's arms and get a hook in, but her forehead was already bruising from the attack.
Otsuka tried to explode out of the bad predicament, but Benedict pushed her back down, determined to maintain her full mount. And as has become somewhat of a signature for Otsuka, she fired off several weak shots from the bottom - continuing to do her best to keep Benedict busy and find an opening to take control of the fight. But this time around, Benedict was able to block those shots easily enough. Otsuka's mouthpiece came out at that point, as she was having a hard time catching her breath. The referee called for time and stood both women up, instructing Akane to get her mouthpiece back in before having both women resume their original position and continuing the fight. Akane went back to her punches again from the bottom, but Myra was still dominant, able to block these ones as well. Then Otsuka tried to get out of this position again, but again she failed. A third try finally created space, and Akane scrambled back to her feet - followed quickly by Benedict.
Back on their feet, Myra started circling again, looking for angles as she worked her jab. Otsuka circled with her, trying to find an opening as she landed a few punches of her own. Benedict reciprocated with a big combo that forced Otsuka back. Then she lunged forward and both fighters engaged in a wild flurry of punches, trying to take eachother's heads off with every single blow. With neither woman backing down, they both finally created a little separation, opting to try different strategies. Otsuka then leaned in for a one-two combo, and Benedict was knocked back a bit from its power. With Otsuka having taken the middle of the cage, she then presses the advantage, moving toward Benedict and tags her with a straight right. Then does so again, and again. Benedict finally circled out before shooting for a takedown, and once again bringing Otsuka down at will, moving into half-guard immediately as the two hit the ground. She couldn't do anything with it though, as the round ended.
ROUND THREE:
Both fighters touched gloves to start the third round, sizing one another up in the process. Otsuka then went for the takedown on Benedict, but Myra stuffed it, refusing to go down. Benedict connected with a massive straight left hand that opened a cut on Otsuka's cheek. Myra then shot for a takedown, and Otsuka sprawled, preventing the takedown for once - both women quickly returning to their feet again. Myra then threw a looping right at Akane, and took a jab to the face at the same time; but her looping right staggered Otsuka. Sensing that she had the uper hand, Benedict charged in with a wild flurry of jabs and crosses, forcing Akane to retreat and try her best to block as much as she could. She went down to one knee at one point, but got her legs back under her and fired back with a shot of her own - stopping Benedict in her tracks. Otsuka followed that up with an uppercut, but Benedict narrowly avoided taking that one on the chin. Instead, she ducked low, grabbing Otsuka in a double leg and scoring the takedown yet again. Akane tried repeatedly to close her guard at that point, but Benedict repeatedly prevented it. Myra showed an outstanding ground game as she then moved almost effortlessly to full mount. Otsuka tried to roll her over, but Benedict put a stop to that as well. She finally got some good ground and pound in, but accidentally got her finger in Akane's eye, and the referee stood her up to give Otsuka time to recover before the fight resumed - warning Benedict to be more careful from now on.
Recovered from the eye poke, Akane went to the body with a shot, but just grazed her target as Myra ducked low for another successful takedown. If Otsuka excelled at anything throughout this fight, it was her excellent ground defense, as she tried repeatedly to get Benedict from side control back to half-guard. And Benedict's ground game was equally fantastic, as she continued to prevent Otsuka's attempts - resulting in a stalemate between the two. Neither one could really do all that much damage while on the ground. And still trying to get past Otsuka's defenses, Benedict moved to full mount despite Otsuka's best efforts to stop her. Benedict then landed several shots to the ribs, but they were mainly a distraction as she then went for the armbar. But Akane held onto her own hand and was able to break the hold in time, before successfully rolling Benedict over and ending up in side control for a change. From there Otsuka tried to take the full mount, but Benedict prevented that, and was successful in getting Akane into half-guard instead. Otsuka made the best of her current position though, as she kept Benedict busy - bringing punches down on her, forcing Myra to cover up. Akane used the temporary lull in Benedict's defenses to move back to side control, but Benedict had her leg trapped and wouldn't let her pass. After warning both women to work several times, the ref finally stood them up, much to the agreement of the fans.
As the ref stepped out of the way with both women on their feet, Benedict landed a hard body kick to Otsuka's ribs, then faked a leg kick, before lashing out a devastating head kick that caught Akane off-guard - opening up a big gash over her left eye. As the blood began to flow, the ref immediately called for a stop to the fight, and had the ringside doctor take a look at the cut. He quickly determined that Akane would not be able to continue due to blood impairing her vision.
WINNER: Myra Benedict at 4:21 of Round 3 via Doctor Stoppage (Impaired Vision)
Dodge Theater, Phoenix, Arizona
UNDER CARD
MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUTFEA
Margaret Buckley(0-0-0) -VS- Umedo Yamada(0-0-0)
WINNER: Margaret Buckley at 1:21 of Round 1 via KO (Punch)
FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT
Keiko Tsukushida(0-0-0) -VS- Emily Prizino(0-0-0)
WINNER: "Eyes on the Prize" Emily Prizino at 5:00 of Round 3 via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 30-27, 29-28)
FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT
Kaede Maki(0-2-0) -VS- Rosalina Pereira(0-1-0)
WINNER: Kaede Maki at 0:21 of Round 3 via KO (Punches)
LIGHTWEIGHT BOUT
Shizuka Komatsu(0-2-0) -VS- Erin Samuels(0-3-0)
WINNER: Shizuka Komatsu at 3:12 of Round 1 via TKO (Ground & Pound)
LIGHTWEIGHT BOUT
Megumi Shibata(1-2-0) -VS- Clementina Vargas(1-2-0)
WINNER: Megumi Shibata at 2:46 of Round 1 via KO (Punch)
MAIN CARD
MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUT
"Lethal" LaKisha Jackson(1-0-0) -VS- "The Siberian Predator" Fedora Vasilyev(1-2-0)
Fedora: LaKisha's trash talking doesn't bother me. My record speaks for itself. One win and two losses isn't anything to write home about. I have a lot of work to do. But my focus is on this fight, and beating my opponent in convincing fashion. I can't look past her.
LaKisha: Fedora Vasilyev is a stepping stone for me, believe it or not. Sure she got a win under her belt, but that's all she's got. Soon I'll be two and oh, and there's nothin' she can do about it. I'm gonna' wreck her.
"LETHAL" LAKISHA JACKSON
Origin: USA
Height: 6'
Weight: 160 lbs
Record: 1-0-0
Strengths: Muay Thai, Ground & Pound, Submission Defense
"THE SIBERIAN PREDATOR" FEDORA VASILYEV
Origin: RUS
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 160 lbs
Record: 1-2-0
Strengths: Sambo, Judo
ROUND ONE:
Jackson came out right away with a front kick, causing Vasilyev to stumble. She then connected with a high kick, which lacerated Fedora's left eye. The referee said to fight on, however. Jackson then shot in, trying to grab a Thai clinch. Fedora ducked it though, and tried to move away, but LaKisha pushed her against the cage. Fedora continued to try to get out of that position, but found herself in the aforementioned Thai clinch that she earlier avoided, at which point Jackson threw a knee to the midsection - a little too low. Seeing that she was in pain, the referee pulled them apart and gave Fedora some time. She didn't need much though, and the fight quickly resumed.
Jackson then tried a middle kick, but Vasilyev was able to evade it, and took advantage of the miss by shooting in for a successful double leg takedown. LaKisha immediately closed her guard, and tried to roll Vasilyev over, but The Siberian Predator blocked it. Vasilyev then tried to pass her guard, and succeeded only for a moment, before LaKisha regained her full guard again. Jackson tried rolling Fedora over again, but had no better luck than the previous time, but also failed to maintain her closed guard. But fortunately for her, Fedora didn't take advantage of it. LaKisha then distracted her with some shots from the bottom, before closing her guard once more. The referee then stood both women up at that point though, much to the approval of the fans.
LaKisha then clinched up, pressing the attack once again. Her first knee to the body was only a glancing blow, but her second did much more damage. She then distracted Fedora with a couple faked punches, before landing another big knee to the body, forcing Vasilyev to wince in pain. Jackson then backed Vasilyev into the cage and held her there before the ref pulled them apart again. Jackson went back for the clinch, but Fedora avoided it, wanting no part of it anymore. Creating distance between the two, Vasilyev evaded a big punch from "Lethal" LaKisha, before doing her best to establish the range with punches of her own. But then in a foolish move, Vasilyev went back to the clinch. She soon paid for it with three big knees to the body, and then another to Fedora's chin staggered her. Jackson then leapt in with a flying knee to the chest, staggering her again. Jackson kept it up with a big right hand that dropped Vasilyev.
The referee determined that Fedora was still in the fight though, and Jackson stepped back - allowing Vasilyev to return to her feet. LaKisha clinched again, this time with double overhooks. Fedora tried to get out of it, but LaKisha wouldn't allow it. Another knee to the body sent Fedora to the mat again, and the referee stopped the fight.
WINNER: "Lethal" LaKisha Jackson at 4:48 of Round 1 via TKO (Flying Knee)
FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT
"Spitfire" Kyra Braddock(2-2-0) -VS- Azumi Tanaka(1-0-0)
Kyra: I know what you're thinking, "look at the stupid Brit with no groundfighting skills." Sure my ground skills aren't what they should be. But I'm two and two, and feeling good. Stick your head up from behind your gloves, and we'll see how long you last.
Azumi: This may be my second fight in as many cards, but I'm ready. The long time off gave me time to train and improve my skills. Contrary to what Braddock might think, I'm looking forward to a good stand-up fight with her tonight.
"SPITFIRE" KYRA BRADDOCK
Origin: UK
Height: 5'1"
Weight: 105 lbs
Record: 2-2-0
Strengths: Kickboxing, Ground & Pound, Strength
AZUMI TANAKA
Origin: JPN
Height: 5'5"
Weight: 121 lbs
Record: 1-0-0
Strengths: Takedowns, Clinch Grappling, Conditioning
ROUND ONE:
Tanaka started things off with a few tentative punches. Braddock answers with some hard punches of her own, staggering Azumi. Braddock kept it up, getting increasingly confident as she kept landing bombs - causing Azumi's left cheek to swell. Kyra then went to work, landing a series of jabs, before hitting Tanaka with a big hook. Azumi managed to block the jabs, but couldn't stop the hook as she stumbled and fell to the mat. Azumi returned to her feet quickly, but Kyra kept up the attack with more right hands. She then completed the combo with another hook, which caught Tanaka off-balance and caused her to slip. Intent on keeping the fight on their feet, Braddock gestured for Azumi to get up. When she did, Azumi tried for a body shot but missed, while Braddock countered with a cross. Tanaka then missed with what would have been a nasty high kick; but soon lunged forward and caught Braddock in a clinch, before trying for a single leg takedown and succeeding.
Azumi then rained down a few shots, but Kyra made sure none of them found the mark, before finally pulling Tanaka down and closing her guard. She then tried to roll Tanaka over and succeeded, ending up in full mount. The Spitfire then went to town on Azumi with vicious elbows, which Tanaka was unable to defend against. The referee was in perfect position, threatening to stop the fight. Out of desperation, Tanaka fought back with several shots to Braddock's ribs, but Kyra was able to block them all. She kept trying, but kept failing as Kyra kept blocking the punches. It was later translated that Tanaka's corner was yelling for her to get out of the bad position, and she quickly responded with an escape attempt. Braddock prevented it though, and further advanced her position into side control. Tanaka continued trying to escape, but Braddock was able to hold her down every time, before landing several big hammerfists to Azumi's face. She then transitioned back into full mount, the referee soon pulled her off after an illegal headbutt and deducted a point for the foul. After giving Tanaka time to recover from the illegal blow, the fight resumed.
Azumi then faked a punch and tried for a clinch, but Braddock blocked it and pushed Tanaka away. The two had a brief exchange of punches from there, but it was clear that Braddock got the better of it. She then went back to her series of jabs followed by a hook, and again Tanaka couldn't defend against the hook as it knocked her to the mat with a cut on her cheek. Tanaka seemed groggy and uncoordinated at that point. With Azumi defending herself from her back, Kyra connected with two kicks to the thighs. Tanaka tried to kick her away of course, but it only gave her enough time to return to her feet. The referee stepped in at that point to end the round as both women went to their corners.
ROUND TWO:
Kyra came out swinging in the second round, and found immediate success as Tanaka stumbled from the initial blow. Braddock followed it up with more jabs and another massive hook that floored Tanaka, resulting in a quick KO ending to the second round.
WINNER: "Spitfire" Kyra Braddock at 0:45 of Round 2 via KO (Hook)
FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT
"Blood Plague" Hitomi Akera(1-1-0) -VS- "Red Irish" Tesla St. James(2-1-0)
Hitomi: I am a great fighter. So when I say that a one and one record is a disappointment to me, I mean it with the utmost sincerity. My record should be unblemished right now, but it's not. And it never will be again. But if I beat St. James here tonight, I begin a streak that may someday rival it.
Tesla: This fight is very important for both of us. Whoever wins will surely be in line as one of the top contendors for the Featherweight Title. But at the same time, a loss could knock us down the rankings quite a bit. Hitomi is a world-class fighter, but I have to be even better.
"BLOOD PLAGUE" HITOMI AKERA
Origin: JPN
Height: 5'1"
Weight: 115
Record: 1-1-0
Strengths: Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Ground & Pound
"RED IRISH" TESLA ST. JAMES
Origin: CAN
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 120 lbs
Record: 2-1-0
Strengths: Submissions Specialist, Big Heart
ROUND ONE:
Akera quickly closed the distance with a middle kick to the ribs, but Red Irish blocked it with her arm. Hitomi then went for a single leg, and was able to get Tesla down on the mat in open guard. There she wasted no time, immediately going for a kneebar. Tesla tried to roll out of it, but was only able to succeed after a few kicks before returning to her feet. The ref backed her up at that point, allowing Hitomi to get up as well. But she immediately went for the single leg again, and this time transitioned into a heel hook upon its success. But St. James was able to prevent that as well, at which point she closed her guard. Akera tried to force it open again, but St. James wouldn't allow it. Tesla then overhooked an arm and began to crank on it before Hitomi finally pulled it free. St. James then went for an armbar from the bottom, but Akera was able to break free of it as well, while moving to side control in the process. However, Tesla managed to maneuver herself back into half-guard. Hitomi tried to pass it, and succeeded for a minute or two, but St. James worked her way back into half-guard again.
Hitomi changed her approach at that point, hooking St. James' right leg and sitting back for a kneebar. The two struggled in the hold for a minute, before Tesla kicked her way out of the hold - pushing Hitomi away - and instantly scrambled for top position. From the open guard, Tesla tried to move into full mount, but Akera was able to prevent it. But when she tried to close guard, St. James prevented that in return. Akera then fired several hard shots from the bottom, which seemed to do some damage. St. James then went for a kneebar, but Hitomi escaped. As she returned to her feet, Tesla shot in with another single leg and scored the takedown again - this time ending up in side control. However, Hitomi was soon able to get her into half-guard and trapped St. James' leg there when Tesla tried to improve her position. St. James delivered several punches at that point, before finally breaking the half-guard and transitioning all the way to north-south - where she attempted a choke. Akera pushed her forward though, and exploded out, rolling Tesla onto her back and transitioning to the top position where Red Irish closed her guard.
After isolating Hitomi's arm from the bottom, Tesla then attempted a kimura that was also blocked, and lead to Akera passing to half-guard. Hitomi tried her own kimura from the top position, but St. James blocked that as well, before working her legs up to attempt a triangle choke. However, Akera was able to posture up before she could lock it in, making it impossible for Tesla to continue applying pressure. Akera then rained down several big hammerfists before Tesla finally covered up. Then Hitomi threw a couple punches, but St. James caught the incoming arms, trapping them before attempting the triangle again. This time Akera stood up though, and the ref stepped in to give St. James space to get up as well. Akera pushed forward, but St. James caught her with an uppercut to the chin, stunning her. St. James then went back down for another single leg, and took Hitomi down again after both women struggled momentarily, with St. James landing in side control again. Akera had enough of the ground game for now though, as she tried to turn and scramble back to her feet. But instead, Tesla took her back, and tried to lock in a rear naked choke. But again Hitomi escaped, spinning out of the hold before Tesla could lock it in, and returning to her feet - with Tesla coming up after her. Before either woman could try anything else though, the referee stepped in to end the round.
ROUND TWO:
Akera came out with a faked punch and then ducked for a takedown. Tesla reacted to the fake, and was unready for the takedown as a result. Hitomi then passed from Tesla's open guard to half-guard, but then struggled in her attempts to move to side control. Both women traded punches as they returned to their feet. Tesla then tried to establish her range a bit, before the two circled eachother momentarily, both tentative about what they should do next. Hitomi then threw a jab, and while it only barely connected, a finger went into her eye. The referee called for time, giving St. James time to recover, while taking away a point from Hitomi as he believed it was intentional. When the fight continued, Tesla grabbed Akera's arm while leaping into the air and wrapping her leg around Hitomi's write shoulder in a flying omoplata attempt. Hitomi blocked it though, leaving Tesla down on the mat. Akera then tried jump into St. James' guard, but Tesla was able to shove her off, and then counter with an up-kick right in the face - snapping Hitomi's head back.
Tesla then kicked at Akera's legs, followed by another kick to the body. Hitomi tried to get in St. James' guard again, but was pushed off once more, and takes several more kicks for her troubles. But the third attempt proved to be the charm, as St. James was unable to push Hitomi off this time, Red Irish reacted by switching her position to high guard though, and went back to trying for her triangle choke. She almost had it cinched in too, as Hitomi's face was turning red before she finally slipped her head free. St. James then closed her guard at that point, and when Hitomi tried to get out of it, St. James rolled her over into half-guard. The two battled for position from there, with Tesla eventually gaining side control before Hitomi got her back to half-guard. The ref stood them up at that point, but then St. James took the fight right back to the ground again with another takedown.
Securing St. James' arm, Hitomi tried to apply an armbar from the bottom. Tesla in turn spinned out, but Akera seemed to have anticipated the move, as she switched to a triangle. Tesla quickly got out of harm's way though, and returned to her feet. With Tesla up and Hitomi down, Akera attempted an up-kick to the face, but St. James was able to lean backwards and avoid it. Tesla then stepped back, and Akera returned to her feet. The two then traded punches, with Akera trying to time hers to counter St. James', but she was clearly taking a majority of the damage after St. James unleashed a big combo. Tesla showed that she could stand up and bang almost as well as she could work on the ground, as she circled around Hitomi, avoiding much of her attacks before leaning in for a right hand and then a big hook that dropped Akera. Then in a shocking moment, St. James performed a cartwheel, landing in side control on a surprised Hitomi Akera. From there she tried repeatedly to move into full mount, but Hitomi wasn't making it easy for her. The round finally came to an end at that point, with somewhat of a deadlock between the two. But suffice it to say, Akera was clearly growing tired from the relentless pace. The referee stood both women up and they retreated to their respective corners.
ROUND THREE:
After both women came out of their corners, Tesla clinched up before trying for a lower leg sweep. Hitomi tried to prevent being taken down, but Tesla powered through and attained top position. Akera then closed her guard and started working on getting an overhook on one of St. James' arms, which she then proceeded to crank on. But both women were sweaty at that point, and Red Irish was able to pull her arm free relatively easily. Red Irish then began work on breaking out of Akera's closed guard, ultimately succeeding by moving to half-guard. Hitomi tried to regain full guard, but Tesla refused to let her have it. Hitomi next tried for an armbar, but again St. James was able to pull her arm free, while transitioning to side control at the same time. Hitomi continued trying to improve her position, but only succeeded after multiple attempts. Tesla in turn them worked her way back into half-guard, and tried to get Hitomi into an armbar of her own. However, Akera sat up and was able to pull her arm out as well. But St. James kept working for it, until Akera was able to turn the tables on her - getting her arm out of trouble while rolling St. James over at the same time - Akera ending up in her closed guard. The two fought for position there for a bit, with the referee finally standing both women up.
St. James then fired off a quick low kick, but Hitomi was able to block it, before clinching up with Red Irish in return. She fired off several knees from there, but St. James blocked each of them before the two were at a stalemate again, forcing the ref to pull them apart once more. Both women were showing signs of fatigue at that point, as the ref instructed them to keep working. After circling a bit, Akera then threw a punch which St. James avoided, and then Tesla countered with an uppercut that found its mark. A second one was blocked, however. But when Hitomi tried to answer it, Tesla was already circling out of her reach. Hitomi then missed with a body shot, before Red Irish answered via a left cross. And Hitomi fired back with some more shots of her own. St. James then lunged for Akera's right leg, attempting a foot lock, but after the two struggled momentarily, Hitomi was able to pull her foot free - leaving Tesla down on the mat. St. James did her best to keep Akera at bay, landing a kick to the legs and then one to the body, before connecting with an up-kick to the face that sent Hitomi staggering back. But before Tesla could get back to her feet, Akera moved in again, and took several more kicks including another unprotected to the face. This time, St. James had enough time to get back to her feet before Hitomi could respond.
For some reason, Tesla made the same mistake a second time, going for a rolling kneebar as soon as she got to her feet and the ref motioned for the two women to fight on. Once again, Akera was able to get free and clear, leaving Tesla down on the mat yet again. From there, St. James kicked at Akera's knee, but she was out of time as the ref stood her up with the end of the round.
WINNER: "Red Irish" Tesla St. James at 5:00 of Round 3 via Unanimous Decision (29-27, 30-26, 30-26)
LIGHTWEIGHT BOUT
"Nightshade" Sora Kawaii(3-2-0) -VS- "Hunter Killer" Hannah Kristian(2-0-0)
Sora: Hannah Kristian is two and oh for a good reason. She's an excellent fighter. Very good all around skill. But she's going up against one of the best strikers in this company. If she can take my best shot and keep fighting, I'll respect her. The problem is, most people can't.
Hannah: Sora might be barely breaking five hundred in the record books, but I've seen her past fights. She's a warrior, and she doesn't go down easily. I've got to bring my absolute best into this fight, because I know that beating her will be the hardest thing I ever do. But I also know that I CAN do it.
"NIGHTSHADE" SORA KAWAII
Origin: JPN
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 144 lbs
Record: 3-2-0
Strengths: Knockout Punching Power, Submission Defense, Ground & Pound, Toughness
"THE HEROINE" HANNAH KRISTIAN
Origin: USA
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 144 lbs
Record: 2-0-0
Strengths: Excellent Submissions, Kickboxing, Sambo
ROUND ONE:
As the two started out of their corners, Kawaii threw a low kick to the ankle of Kristian, before clinching up. Hannah did her best to push Sora away, more interested in keeping the fight at striking distance, but Kawaii wouldn't let go. Sora then utilized some dirty boxing, focusing on Kristian's ribs and doing some good damage already. Hannah's best defense was to continue trying to break the clinch, but Sora was just too strong. Sora continued unloading on her punches, while at the same time continually preventing Kristian from creating space between them. Sora kept her pressed up against the cage, and now worked her uppercuts, landing several unanswered shots that left Hannah's legs going weak. She was desperate to get out of the bad predicament, but continued to have little success breaking free. Finally the referee separated the two, much to Kristian's delight.
Kawaii then worked the jab from there, trying to find her angles, while Kristian answered every shot in return. Kawaii then started hitting one-two combos, finding her groove and quickly opening a cut on The Heroine's mouth. But she rallied back, closing the distance and getting past Sora's defenses, as she connected with a big uppercut that left Kawaii wobbly. But Sora blocked the next shot as she quickly regained her balance and composure. Hannah then threw a hook, but had no luck finding the mark with it. Kawaii dodged a second one as well, before both women just started throwing bombs at one another, going toe-to-toe in the center of the cage. That is until Sora missed with a punch and Kristian did as well with the counter. Then The Heroine started hitting them again, one, two, three, four unanswered shots stunning Kawaii. Backing up a bit, Sora then fired off another low kick that Hannah checked, but the blow still hurt quite a bit nonetheless. Kristian then tried closing the distance again, but caught an uppercut to the face. She countered with a looping right, but Sora jumped back and answered with a jab that staggered Kristian. Nightshade then capitalized on the advantage, moving in with more jabs and crosses mixed in. Then went back to her low kicks, causing Hannah to hop in pain.
Both women went back to exchanging big blows once more, neither woman giving an inch and both showing the wear and tear from this war. Kawaii started getting a bit cocky at that point, faking a punch and then circling out of Hannah's reach when she threw the counter. Faking and circling. Then went back to the jab, landing several in a row before Hannah retreated momentarily before connecting with an overhand right. The two went back and forth, blow for blow from there. Kawaii took the advantage again with combo, sending Hannah realing but staying upright nonetheless. Then Sora connected with an overhead right of her own. Then a one-two combo, a fake, and a big right hand to the chin. Hannah tried to answer with some of her own shots, but then took another combo, Kawaii just picking her shots and landing them at will at that point. She followed that up with a huge haymaker that staggered Kristian, but she still didn't go down. Sora tried to capitalize, charging in with a fury, but caught a surprising uppercut from Kristian for her troubles.
Sora was hesitant for a brief moment after that, but after the two circled again, Sora came back with a shovel hook to the face that tagged Kristian pretty good, her mouth continuing to bleed from the growing wound. Sora threw a jab next, but her finger inadvertently went into Hannah's eye. Seeing her reaction to the pain, the ref called for a halt to the fight, and gave Kristian time to recover. It took a minute, but the fight soon resumed. At which point Kawaii came right at Kristian again landing more jabs. Then a fake, which she quickly followed up with a liver kick that surely hurt. But it was her hands that were doing the most damage, as Kawaii continued to pick her spots. She looked to be getting ready to put Kristian away, but The Heroine was saved by the sounding of the bell at the end of the round.
ROUND TWO:
Kristian and Kawaii touched gloves in a show of respect to start the second round, before Kawaii went right back to work with her hands - this time landing a big shot to the body, then a couple hooks - focusing on Hannah's ribs. With those shots plus Kawaii's earlier attacks to her ribs, Hannah was having a hard time controlling her breathing. But she fired back with a body shot of her own, battling it out as long as she could. Kawaii dodged it though, and countered with a hard cross. Kawaii then leapt forward, grabbing Kristian in a Thai clinch. Hannah stayed busy though, determined to get out of there once again. But despite her efforts, Sora just wouldn't let her go before finally giving up on the clinch and pushing Hannah away. Hannah stumbled though, which gave Sora time to circle around and take the center of the cage. She then came in with another one-two combo before faking with the left again, and landing another big right to the chin that floors Hannah. Sora immediately jumped on top for a couple more blows to finish the job, but the referee quickly pushed her off. The fight was over.
WINNER: "Nightshade" Sora Kawaii at 1:05 of Round 2 via KO (Punches)
INTERIM MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE BOUT
Myra Benedict(2-2-0) -VS- "Red Diamond" Akane Otsuka(2-0-0)
Myra: My first two losses were by decision, one of them against the real Middleweight Champion, Achika Akatani. And while I have worked hard to regain my spot in the rankings, this isn't how I wanted to fight for a title. My hope was to someday avenge that loss to Akatani. I'm sure Otsuka is chomping at the bit for this opportunity, and she's dominated everyone so far to get here. So while I don't like it, for now, my focus is on this fight and no other.
Akane: You look at my record, and you see only two and oh. But that's only my SPIRIT FC record. But now try twenty-four and oh on for size. MMA is and will always be my sport. And SPIRIT FC was once my company. So it is fitting that I get this shot at the Middleweight Title. And whether my opponent is Achika Akatani or Myra Benedict, it doesn't matter. Because the Middleweight Championship will soon be my mine too.
MYRA BENEDICT
Origin: USA
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 153 lbs
Record: 2-2-0
Strengths: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Well-Rounded, Toughness
"RED DIAMOND" AKANE OTSUKA
Origin: JPN
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 161 lbs
Record: 2-0-0
Strengths: Kickboxing, Strength, Toughness, Good Chin
ROUND ONE:
Benedict started things off with a quick hook, but it only glanced off Otsuka's arm as she threw it up for the block. Myra then circled, and started working her jab, each one countered by Akane. They soon picked up the pace as the punches kept flying, before Akane finished the sequence with a low kick which Myra checked. Otsuka then tried for a push kick, but Myra avoided it and moved in landing some nice punches to the face - staggering the Red Diamond. Sensing that the fight could be over already, Benedict moved in closer and started throwing bombs - each one landing home and rocking Otsuka. The Red Diamond wanted no part of her onslaught as she quickly backpedaled, forcing Benedict to hit air as she chased after. Akane then answered with a looping right hand, but caught a jab to the face at the same time. Myra then dodged a couple more shots, before landing a few of her own. Benedict then took the center of the cage and started pushing Otsuka back with punches - missing some, having others blocked, and landing others. Akane tried circling around, but Myra never let her get the angle she wanted. Benedict landed some more punches, staggering the Red Diamond against the cage. And Myra was content to keep throwing them at her, forcing Akane to cover up to avoid as much punishment as possible. But even that wasn't helping her enough, as Otsuka was getting rocked with Benedict's shots.
Benedict then surprised her, switching tactics as she ducked low for a single leg. The two struggled there against the cage, Otsuka having to be told repeatedly not to hold the cage before Myra finally pivoted and took her down to the mat - landing in side control as well. Seemingly confortable from the bottom, despite being surprised by the takedown, Akane started throwing punches at Myra's ribs. Benedict in turn did her best to block them, while keeping Otsuka busy. Akane kept at it though, doing a fairly good job getting power behind her shots. She then turned her attention from Benedict's ribs to her face, but Myra then worked her way into full mount. The Red Diamond kept working from the bottom though, despite her bad predicament - continuing to throw punches but focusing back on the body again. Having the dominant position, Benedict was able to block most of them though. Nevertheless, Otsuka's relentless barrage from the bottom kept Benedict busy, preventing her from raining down much damage herself - even though those shots weren't doing all that much damage. Otsuka then rolled to her side in an attempt to get Benedict in her half-guard, and succeeded in that endeavor.
Otsuka tried to improve her position further, looking to close her guard, but Benedict was ready for her this time and prevented it. Myra in turn tried to get back to side control, but Akane did a good job tying up her leg to prevent the transition. Benedict proved to be very persistant though, as she kept at it until she finally succeeded and moved to side control. Otsuka went back to working Benedict's exposed body from there - slamming knees into her ribs this time from the bottom. Deciding that she didn't like side control much after that, Myra then moved back to full mount, and tried to lock on an armbar. Otsuka showed how strong she was though, by successfully fighting it off. She held Benedict close, while at the same time peppering her with short punches to the side of Myra's face - forcing her to cover up as best as she could. Benedict then threw her leg, rolling it over for another armbar, but Otsuka broke out of that as well. Myra managed to maintain her full mount, but was still unable to deliver much punishment from that position. Finally, Otsuka exploded out, rolling Myra over into her closed guard.
And now Benedict was doing her best to stay on the attack from the bottom, as she tried to get a kimura from the bottom. She couldn't lock it in though, as Otsuka defended the submission and freed her arm. And in return, the Red Diamond went back to work, delivering more punches to Benedict's body. Myra eventually got a hold of her arms though, preventing her from doing anymore damage before the ref finally stood both women up. On their feet, Otsuka connected with an inside leg kick, but Myra was fast enough to grab the leg before she could retract it, and took Otsuka down to the mat in side control once again. Akane tried to get her into half-guard, but Benedict defended against it as the round came to an end.
ROUND TWO:
Benedict came out to start the second round with a vicious kick that connected. She then threw a faked punch to distract Otsuka, before landing another big head kick - staggering the Red Diamond. Then a third high kick, but Akane wouldn't go down; and even fired back with a kick to the body blocked by Benedict. Myra went to the body with a punch this time, but Akane blocked it, and countered with a big cross, opening a cut on Benedict's nose. Myra didn't seem fazed by it though, as she stayed focused and fired off a lightning fast leg kick unchecked. Then Benedict landed an uppercut that got her a little payback as it lacerated Otsuka's nose. The two threw bombs from there in a wild exchange, neither woman backing down or going down. Otsuka almost kicked Myra's head off with a high kick, but Myra got her arm up to block it. Then ducked low for a double leg takedown - catching Otsuka by surprise and getting her to the mat with ease. Otsuka tried closing her guard to keep Benedict down and minimize her offense, but Myra postured up, making it impossible for her to cross her ankles. At that point, Myra then moved to full mount, and started raining down blow after blow to the head. Otsuka was covering up and trying to grab Benedict's arms and get a hook in, but her forehead was already bruising from the attack.
Otsuka tried to explode out of the bad predicament, but Benedict pushed her back down, determined to maintain her full mount. And as has become somewhat of a signature for Otsuka, she fired off several weak shots from the bottom - continuing to do her best to keep Benedict busy and find an opening to take control of the fight. But this time around, Benedict was able to block those shots easily enough. Otsuka's mouthpiece came out at that point, as she was having a hard time catching her breath. The referee called for time and stood both women up, instructing Akane to get her mouthpiece back in before having both women resume their original position and continuing the fight. Akane went back to her punches again from the bottom, but Myra was still dominant, able to block these ones as well. Then Otsuka tried to get out of this position again, but again she failed. A third try finally created space, and Akane scrambled back to her feet - followed quickly by Benedict.
Back on their feet, Myra started circling again, looking for angles as she worked her jab. Otsuka circled with her, trying to find an opening as she landed a few punches of her own. Benedict reciprocated with a big combo that forced Otsuka back. Then she lunged forward and both fighters engaged in a wild flurry of punches, trying to take eachother's heads off with every single blow. With neither woman backing down, they both finally created a little separation, opting to try different strategies. Otsuka then leaned in for a one-two combo, and Benedict was knocked back a bit from its power. With Otsuka having taken the middle of the cage, she then presses the advantage, moving toward Benedict and tags her with a straight right. Then does so again, and again. Benedict finally circled out before shooting for a takedown, and once again bringing Otsuka down at will, moving into half-guard immediately as the two hit the ground. She couldn't do anything with it though, as the round ended.
ROUND THREE:
Both fighters touched gloves to start the third round, sizing one another up in the process. Otsuka then went for the takedown on Benedict, but Myra stuffed it, refusing to go down. Benedict connected with a massive straight left hand that opened a cut on Otsuka's cheek. Myra then shot for a takedown, and Otsuka sprawled, preventing the takedown for once - both women quickly returning to their feet again. Myra then threw a looping right at Akane, and took a jab to the face at the same time; but her looping right staggered Otsuka. Sensing that she had the uper hand, Benedict charged in with a wild flurry of jabs and crosses, forcing Akane to retreat and try her best to block as much as she could. She went down to one knee at one point, but got her legs back under her and fired back with a shot of her own - stopping Benedict in her tracks. Otsuka followed that up with an uppercut, but Benedict narrowly avoided taking that one on the chin. Instead, she ducked low, grabbing Otsuka in a double leg and scoring the takedown yet again. Akane tried repeatedly to close her guard at that point, but Benedict repeatedly prevented it. Myra showed an outstanding ground game as she then moved almost effortlessly to full mount. Otsuka tried to roll her over, but Benedict put a stop to that as well. She finally got some good ground and pound in, but accidentally got her finger in Akane's eye, and the referee stood her up to give Otsuka time to recover before the fight resumed - warning Benedict to be more careful from now on.
Recovered from the eye poke, Akane went to the body with a shot, but just grazed her target as Myra ducked low for another successful takedown. If Otsuka excelled at anything throughout this fight, it was her excellent ground defense, as she tried repeatedly to get Benedict from side control back to half-guard. And Benedict's ground game was equally fantastic, as she continued to prevent Otsuka's attempts - resulting in a stalemate between the two. Neither one could really do all that much damage while on the ground. And still trying to get past Otsuka's defenses, Benedict moved to full mount despite Otsuka's best efforts to stop her. Benedict then landed several shots to the ribs, but they were mainly a distraction as she then went for the armbar. But Akane held onto her own hand and was able to break the hold in time, before successfully rolling Benedict over and ending up in side control for a change. From there Otsuka tried to take the full mount, but Benedict prevented that, and was successful in getting Akane into half-guard instead. Otsuka made the best of her current position though, as she kept Benedict busy - bringing punches down on her, forcing Myra to cover up. Akane used the temporary lull in Benedict's defenses to move back to side control, but Benedict had her leg trapped and wouldn't let her pass. After warning both women to work several times, the ref finally stood them up, much to the agreement of the fans.
As the ref stepped out of the way with both women on their feet, Benedict landed a hard body kick to Otsuka's ribs, then faked a leg kick, before lashing out a devastating head kick that caught Akane off-guard - opening up a big gash over her left eye. As the blood began to flow, the ref immediately called for a stop to the fight, and had the ringside doctor take a look at the cut. He quickly determined that Akane would not be able to continue due to blood impairing her vision.
WINNER: Myra Benedict at 4:21 of Round 3 via Doctor Stoppage (Impaired Vision)