Post by The Sandman on Dec 6, 2021 0:34:37 GMT -5
Oleg Taktarov looks a bit uneasy. Hopefully this doesn't affect his performance.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is beating himself up in the corner before the fight begins, smacking himself in the face, body and legs to get ready for his scrap.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
A pretty fair match today. I can't say who will be the one who will be raising his fist after the match.
Oleg Taktarov comes with a 3 fight losing streak.
The referee of the bout is John McCarthy.
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Round 1
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The bell announces the first round!
Big Nog moves backwards and Oleg Taktarov is asking him if he came today for fighting or running.
Big Nog launches a hook to the body
Oleg Taktarov moves aside looking for a counter...
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Russian Bear launches a flurry of punches
but only manages to land glancing blows.
Big Nog is holding Oleg Taktarov's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Oleg Taktarov loses balance and goes to the ground.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries a kimura
Russian Bear breaks the lock.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Russian Bear shows no signs of slowing down. He's in great shape.
Russian Bear is moving on the ground...
Ouch! That was a headbutt! Did he do that intentionally?
John McCarthy didn't see that!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov is cooling the fight on the ground
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira hooks Russian Bear's right leg and sits back for a kneebar!
Oleg Taktarov manages to kick Big Nog away and scrambles on top!
Russian Bear tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Russian Bear tries to show some ground skills
Oleg Taktarov put Big Nog in half guard.
The clock says 1:20 in the 1 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in half guard over Russian Bear
Russian Bear switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
You can see the pain reflected in Big Nog's eyes...
Big Nog struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in half guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to free his leg
Oleg Taktarov moves fast and both fighters exchange some weak punches while climbing to their feet.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Bizkaia Arena (Barakaldo, Spain) are cheering for the fighters.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira closes the distance with his opponent wanting some action.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira takes a few seconds to recover his breath...
Oleg Taktarov moves forward and launches a low kick.
Hard blow to Big Nog's left thigh
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Oleg Taktarov is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Big Nog into his guard.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira looks to posture up and open Oleg Taktarov's guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira forces Oleg Taktarov to open his guard.
The clock says 2:20 in the 1 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Big Nog tries to improve position.
He frees a leg.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in half guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira isolates Oleg Taktarov's left arm looking for an armbar...
Oleg Taktarov manages to sit up and pull his arm out of danger! Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira lost his dominant position.
Russian Bear is trying to counter now!
Oleg Taktarov doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He can't do it because of Big Nog's moves.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in half guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to pass Oleg Taktarov's guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Big Nog tries to move to full mount!
Nice move. He is in full mount now.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll to his side and trap Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Deep breaths from Oleg Taktarov who tries a hammer punch to Big Nog's ribs.
That hit Big Nog who moves on the ground in order to protect himself
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll to his side and trap Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his guard...
Oleg Taktarov gets his hip out and moves to full guard.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll to his side and trap Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll to his side and trap Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Deep breaths from Oleg Taktarov who tries a hammer punch to Big Nog's ribs.
Big Nog blocks those punches
Big Nog is trying to counter now!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to better his position on the ground...
Big Nog is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll on the ground...
Big Nog knows how to keep his advantage on the ground.
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 4:05 in the 1 round
Russian Bear is holding Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 4:15 in the 1 round
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog tries to show some ground skills
Russian Bear uses his strength to keep Russian Bear at a disadvantage
Big Nog clumsily fails here and it's time for Oleg Taktarov to fight back!
Oleg Taktarov looks to mount Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira sees an opening and locks his opponent in half guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear tries to free his leg...
He moves to side mount!
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov looks to pass to mount...
Russian Bear slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira.
Oleg Taktarov is in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to roll to his side and trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard...
Oleg Taktarov keeps good control and remains in full mount.
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
That was a close round.
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Round 2
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Russian Bear tries to grapple
He puts Big Nog in a double underhook!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira pushes away Russian Bear trying to keep the fight at striking range
Russian Bear doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Russian Bear is trying to counter now!
Oleg Taktarov pushes away Big Nog trying to keep the fight at striking range
Big Nog stumbles backwards and Oleg Taktarov circles to get the center of the cage
The clock says 0:30 in the 2 round
Russian Bear fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Big Nog sprawls and remains on his feet.
These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect.
Russian Bear moves backwards and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is asking him if he came today for fighting or running.
The clock says 1:00 in the 2 round
Both fighters circle around the center of the cage.
Big Nog is holding Oleg Taktarov's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Oleg Taktarov loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 1:20 in the 2 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov is a submission wizard. He has forgotten more BJJ than most fighters have learned.
Oleg Taktarov attempts to trap Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his guard.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira keeps control and remains in side mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira hooks Russian Bear's right leg and sits back for a kneebar!
Oleg Taktarov manages to kick Big Nog away and scrambles on top!
Russian Bear tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Russian Bear tries to show some ground skills
Big Nog uses his strength to keep Big Nog at a disadvantage
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira looks to mount Oleg Taktarov...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira slides his knee across and gets to mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to better his position on the ground...
Big Nog is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira throws the leg over and rolls it over into an armbar!
Russian Bear breaks the lock showing some skills...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Big Nog is moving on the ground...
Ouch! That was a headbutt! Did he do that intentionally?
John McCarthy didn't see that!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll to his side and get to half guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira rolls Oleg Taktarov to his stomach and takes his back!
Big Nog is in rear mount over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira slides his arm under Oleg Taktarov's chin and locks the rear naked choke!
Oleg Taktarov pulls down on Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's hand and staves off danger
Russian Bear tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Russian Bear has Big Nog controlling his back while on the ground. He tries to roll and find an escape...
Big Nog is unable to move under Russian Bear control.
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.
Russian Bear pushes Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath.
The clock says 2:50 in the 2 round
Big Nog steps backwards and lowers his arms while breathing heavily... He seems tired.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira goes with a looping right hand while Oleg Taktarov jumps back and jabs
Russian Bear seems staggered and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses.
The clock says 3:00 in the 2 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira goes with a looping right hand while Oleg Taktarov jumps back and jabs
That one hits but Russian Bear seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange here.
Russian Bear and Big Nog circle around the center of the cage.
The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage.
Big Nog fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Russian Bear sprawls and remains on his feet.
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Russian Bear jumps over his opponent and tries to grapple
Oleg Taktarov pushes his opponent against the fence in a plum position
Oleg Taktarov tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
Big Nog is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position.
The clock says 3:45 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
Oleg Taktarov shoots and grab one of Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's leg, attempting to take him down with a Single Leg
Big Nog lose his balance and falls to the mat
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov has seen better days.
Oleg Taktarov tries to finish with a leg lock!
Big Nog is able to break the lock.
Oleg Taktarov gets sloppy and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to take advantage...
Big Nog tries an armbar from the bottom!
Oleg Taktarov breaks the lock and moves himself to side control.
The clock says 4:10 in the 2 round
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov isolates Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's arm and neck looking for an arm triangle
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is able to relieve the pressure on his neck and slip out of the hold.
Big Nog is trying to counter now!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira manages to switch to full guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in closed guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear tries to escape from closed guard...
Russian Bear struggles to liberate his leg and jumps to half guard!
The clock says 4:30 in the 2 round
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Big Nog is gassing out... Too bad. His performance may be going down from here.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to move to full guard
Oleg Taktarov keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to move to full guard
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira manages to switch to full guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira sits up and gets an arm around Russian Bear's neck!
Russian Bear pushes Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira back to the ground.
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
This round is maybe for Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, but it's close.
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Round 3
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Big Nog moves backwards and Oleg Taktarov is asking him if he came today for fighting or running.
Big Nog fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Oleg Taktarov didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to finish with a leg lock!
Russian Bear is able to break the lock.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Big Nog is hurt... He should be looking to avoid more damage or he will lose this fight.
Big Nog breaths deeply while on the ground
The clock says 0:55 in the 3 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Russian Bear tries to close his guard around Big Nog
He succeeds!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to better his position on the ground...
Russian Bear holds Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's head against his chin in the closed guard.
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Oleg Taktarov sits up and gets an arm around Big Nog's neck!
Big Nog pushes Oleg Taktarov back to the ground.
The clock says 1:15 in the 3 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Big Nog struggles on the ground and tries to break Oleg Taktarov's guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in Russian Bear open guard now
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to finish with a leg lock!
Russian Bear is able to break the lock.
John McCarthy has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Oleg Taktarov is doing his best Floyd Mayweather impression by not engaging.
Russian Bear goes to the body...
his punches graze Big Nog's arm.
Big Nog is trying to counter now!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira moves forward looking for some grappling action
Russian Bear pushes his opponent and keep the fight at striking range
The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage.
Russian Bear steps backwards away from Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. He seems to be cooling down the fight a bit.
The clock says 2:20 in the 3 round
Russian Bear fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov tries to finish with a leg lock!
Big Nog struggles to free himself
Big Nog hyper-extended his leg
That leglock looks tight...
You can see the pain reflected in Big Nog's eyes...
Crippling lock!
Big Nog is able to break the lock.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Big Nog tries to close his guard around Russian Bear
He is not able to do it
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov tries to pass to half guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira can't prevent his opponent from passing. Russian Bear looks to work from half guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov goes for an americana!
That Americana looks tight...
Big Nog Hyper-extended his left arm
You can see the pain reflected in Big Nog's eyes...
Big Nog Hyper-extended his left arm
Crippling lock!
Big Nog struggles to free himself
You can see the pain reflected in Big Nog's eyes...
That Americana from Oleg Taktarov appears to be unbreakable
Big Nog breaks free.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira overhooks an arm and starts cranking! Interesting meneuver.
Russian Bear pulls his arm out of danger.
Big Nog clumsily fails here and it's time for Oleg Taktarov to fight back!
Russian Bear tries to free his leg...
He moves to side mount!
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog tries to show some ground skills
Russian Bear uses his strength to keep Russian Bear at a disadvantage
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Body shots by Oleg Taktarov
Solid blows to Big Nog's abdomen.
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
The clock says 4:10 in the 3 round
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov looks to mount Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira...
Oleg Taktarov slides his knee across and gets to mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Oleg Taktarov doesn't want to lose his adventageous position and he struggles to mantain 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.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and Russian Bear engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Oleg Taktarov is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows.
Russian Bear decides to launch some tentative punches
Nothing from this exchange. Russian Bear moves back and takes a deep breath.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira shoots for a double leg takedown!
Oleg Taktarov sprawls and manages to stay on his feet.
Russian Bear tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Oleg Taktarov tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top
Big Nog is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt
John McCarthy separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
This round is clearly for Oleg Taktarov.
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Round 4
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Big Nog looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Oleg Taktarov's punches
Russian Bear is on the receiving end of a great combo by Big Nog.
The clock says 0:25 in the 4 round
Russian Bear looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's punches
Both fighters are wildly hitting the air!
Nice beating Oleg Taktarov has received.
The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage.
Oleg Taktarov attempts a sweep single...
Oleg Taktarov catches Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Russian Bear.
Oleg Taktarov is in closed guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov looks to posture up and open Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's guard...
Oleg Taktarov forces Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira to open his guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Big Nog tries to close his guard around Russian Bear
He succeeds!
Oleg Taktarov is in closed guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov is looking to pass Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's guard...
Oleg Taktarov gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
The clock says 1:30 in the 4 round
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov tries to pass Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's guard...
Oleg Taktarov manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov looks to mount Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira...
Oleg Taktarov slides his knee across and gets to mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog and Russian Bear are at the same level nowadays... This match is very interesting because no one knows who will win.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to roll to his side and trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard...
Oleg Taktarov keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Oleg Taktarov doesn't want to lose his adventageous position and he struggles to mantain the full mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira gets sloppy and Oleg Taktarov tries to take advantage...
Russian Bear suddenly holds Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's arm and tries an armbar!
Big Nog can break the lock and now he is in a closed guard over Oleg Taktarov!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira looks to posture up and open Oleg Taktarov's guard...
Oleg Taktarov has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked.
The clock says 2:20 in the 4 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to pass Oleg Taktarov's guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira passes momentarily but Oleg Taktarov regains full guard.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Big Nog is in closed guard... Russian Bear tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira!
Oleg Taktarov is in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to roll to his side and trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard...
Oleg Taktarov keeps good control and remains in full mount.
John McCarthy 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.
These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Oleg Taktarov jumps backwards and frees his leg.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira gets sloppy and Oleg Taktarov tries to take advantage...
Oleg Taktarov fakes a punch and launches himself over Big Nog!
Nice move by Russian Bear who clinches and pushes Big Nog against the cage
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Russian Bear tries to breaks Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's resistence with a few punches while tries to push him against oner corner.
Russian Bear launches a couple of punches that leave marks in Big Nog's ribs.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
Russian Bear is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Big Nog gets double underhooks and looks for the takedown...
Russian Bear pummels back into position.
John McCarthy separates the fighters and tells them to continue fighting.
Big Nog pushes Oleg Taktarov and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Oleg Taktarov jumps backwards and frees his leg.
Big Nog clumsily fails here and it's time for Oleg Taktarov to fight back!
Oleg Taktarov fakes a punch and launches himself over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Great move by Russian Bear who pushes his opponent under a troublesome thai clinch
Oleg Taktarov pushes away Big Nog trying to keep the fight at striking range
Big Nog stumbles backwards and Oleg Taktarov circles to get the center of the cage
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to bring the fight to the ground
Russian Bear won't budge, forcing Big Nog to pull guard.
The clock says 4:05 in the 4 round
Oleg Taktarov is in closed guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear is in closed guard... Big Nog tries to roll on the ground!
Oleg Taktarov uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Big Nog clumsily fails here and it's time for Oleg Taktarov to fight back!
Russian Bear struggles on the ground and tries to break Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's guard...
Oleg Taktarov is in Big Nog open guard now
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira isolates an arm in a kimura attempt!
Russian Bear blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Big Nog's guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear tries to get a side mount...
He frees his leg and is now controlling Big Nog from the side mount!
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
The referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.
I don't think either fighter got the better of their opponent that round.
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Round 5
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Russian Bear and Big Nog circle around the center of the cage.
Big Nog is holding Oleg Taktarov's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Oleg Taktarov shows great balance while pushing away Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
The clock says 0:40 in the 5 round
Russian Bear studies his opponent looking for a hole in his defense.
Russian Bear and Big Nog circle around the center of the cage.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to bring the fight to the ground
Russian Bear goes down.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Russian Bear tries to close his guard around Big Nog
He succeeds!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Big Nog looks like the walking dead... I don't know how much more punishement he can receive.
Big Nog is trying to better his position on the ground and launches a couple of elbows against Russian Bear's ribs.
Russian Bear blocks Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's moves and tries to reverse the situation.
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Russian Bear tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Bizkaia Arena (Barakaldo, Spain) are cheering for the fighters.
Big Nog is holding Oleg Taktarov's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Oleg Taktarov loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 1:40 in the 5 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Big Nog is a savvy submission specialist. It's an honor just to watch him work on the ground.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira goes for an americana!
Russian Bear breaks free.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira hooks Russian Bear's left leg and sits back for a kneebar!
Oleg Taktarov manages to kick Big Nog away and scrambles on top!
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Big Nog reaches under and rolls for a kneebar!
Russian Bear blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard.
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Russian Bear moves on the ground
Oleg Taktarov moves to side mount
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov hooks Big Nog's left leg and sits back for a kneebar!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira manages to kick Russian Bear away and scrambles on top!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to pass to half guard...
Oleg Taktarov's guard is too good and he fails to pass.
The clock says 2:25 in the 5 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to finish with a leg lock!
Russian Bear is able to break the lock.
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Bizkaia Arena (Barakaldo, Spain) are cheering for the fighters.
Both fighters circle around the center of the cage.
Russian Bear looks like the walking dead... I don't know how much more punishement he can receive.
Oleg Taktarov tries to bring the fight to the ground
Big Nog goes down.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Big Nog tries to close his guard around Russian Bear
He is not able to do it
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov pushes Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira against the fence and then tries to improve his position.
Russian Bear jumps and tries to free his leg! Big Nog doesn't allow this but Oleg Taktarov is able to get half guard here.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Big Nog attempts a triangle from bottom! Oleg Taktarov slips out. Big Nog quickly turns his hips over and switches to the armbar! He's throwing everything at him.
Oleg Taktarov slips out and backs away to avoid danger.
Big Nog clumsily fails here and it's time for Oleg Taktarov to fight back!
Oleg Taktarov opts to go after his opponent and jumps inside Big Nog's guard.
Big Nog didn't see that coming. Russian Bear is in open guard over Big Nog now.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear tries to improve position.
He frees a leg.
The clock says 3:40 in the 5 round
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Big Nog switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Russian Bear struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear tries to free his leg...
He moves to side mount!
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog tries to move on the ground and shows Oleg Taktarov a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Big Nog's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! John McCarthy knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
The clock says 4:20 in the 5 round
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Russian Bear tries to open up Big Nog with a few strikes with his right elbow...
Some nice shots are landing and Big Nog is trying to block them with his hands...
The clock says 4:30 in the 5 round
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov tries a kimura
Big Nog breaks the lock.
Big Nog is trying to counter now!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
John McCarthy has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Bizkaia Arena (Barakaldo, Spain) are cheering for the fighters.
Oleg Taktarov tries to bring the fight to the ground
Big Nog goes down.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira sits up and gets an arm around Russian Bear's neck!
Russian Bear pushes Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira back to the ground.
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Russian Bear tries to move to full mount
Russian Bear succeeds
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
That was an even round for the most part.
Winner is Oleg Taktarov by Split decision
Statistics: Oleg Taktarov
Punches 7/19 (37%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 3/3 (100%)
Takedowns 5/6 (83%)
GnP strikes 6/9 (67%)
Submissions 10/10 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 911 s
Statistics: Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Punches 15/23 (65%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 6/13 (46%)
GnP strikes 0/2 (0%)
Submissions 19/19 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 911 s
I mean...fans wanted more violence, probably? But what can ya do? (Upgrade. The answer is upgrade. That is what you can do!)
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is beating himself up in the corner before the fight begins, smacking himself in the face, body and legs to get ready for his scrap.
This is the first time they meet inside the cage
A pretty fair match today. I can't say who will be the one who will be raising his fist after the match.
Oleg Taktarov comes with a 3 fight losing streak.
The referee of the bout is John McCarthy.
=========================================
Round 1
=========================================
The bell announces the first round!
Big Nog moves backwards and Oleg Taktarov is asking him if he came today for fighting or running.
Big Nog launches a hook to the body
Oleg Taktarov moves aside looking for a counter...
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Russian Bear launches a flurry of punches
but only manages to land glancing blows.
Big Nog is holding Oleg Taktarov's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Oleg Taktarov loses balance and goes to the ground.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries a kimura
Russian Bear breaks the lock.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Russian Bear shows no signs of slowing down. He's in great shape.
Russian Bear is moving on the ground...
Ouch! That was a headbutt! Did he do that intentionally?
John McCarthy didn't see that!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov is cooling the fight on the ground
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira hooks Russian Bear's right leg and sits back for a kneebar!
Oleg Taktarov manages to kick Big Nog away and scrambles on top!
Russian Bear tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Russian Bear tries to show some ground skills
Oleg Taktarov put Big Nog in half guard.
The clock says 1:20 in the 1 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in half guard over Russian Bear
Russian Bear switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
You can see the pain reflected in Big Nog's eyes...
Big Nog struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in half guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to free his leg
Oleg Taktarov moves fast and both fighters exchange some weak punches while climbing to their feet.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Bizkaia Arena (Barakaldo, Spain) are cheering for the fighters.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira closes the distance with his opponent wanting some action.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira takes a few seconds to recover his breath...
Oleg Taktarov moves forward and launches a low kick.
Hard blow to Big Nog's left thigh
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira shoots for a double leg takedown!
He hits it! Oleg Taktarov is taken off his feet, but he manages to pull Big Nog into his guard.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira looks to posture up and open Oleg Taktarov's guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira forces Oleg Taktarov to open his guard.
The clock says 2:20 in the 1 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Big Nog tries to improve position.
He frees a leg.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in half guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira isolates Oleg Taktarov's left arm looking for an armbar...
Oleg Taktarov manages to sit up and pull his arm out of danger! Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira lost his dominant position.
Russian Bear is trying to counter now!
Oleg Taktarov doesn't want to continue the fight in this position and tries to get back on his feet
He can't do it because of Big Nog's moves.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in half guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to pass Oleg Taktarov's guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Big Nog tries to move to full mount!
Nice move. He is in full mount now.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll to his side and trap Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Deep breaths from Oleg Taktarov who tries a hammer punch to Big Nog's ribs.
That hit Big Nog who moves on the ground in order to protect himself
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll to his side and trap Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his guard...
Oleg Taktarov gets his hip out and moves to full guard.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll to his side and trap Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll to his side and trap Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Deep breaths from Oleg Taktarov who tries a hammer punch to Big Nog's ribs.
Big Nog blocks those punches
Big Nog is trying to counter now!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to better his position on the ground...
Big Nog is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll on the ground...
Big Nog knows how to keep his advantage on the ground.
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 4:05 in the 1 round
Russian Bear is holding Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's left leg... He's trying to take him down.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 4:15 in the 1 round
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog tries to show some ground skills
Russian Bear uses his strength to keep Russian Bear at a disadvantage
Big Nog clumsily fails here and it's time for Oleg Taktarov to fight back!
Oleg Taktarov looks to mount Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira sees an opening and locks his opponent in half guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear tries to free his leg...
He moves to side mount!
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov looks to pass to mount...
Russian Bear slides his knee across and achieves the mount position! Tough spot for Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira.
Oleg Taktarov is in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to roll to his side and trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard...
Oleg Taktarov keeps good control and remains in full mount.
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
That was a close round.
=========================================
Round 2
=========================================
Russian Bear tries to grapple
He puts Big Nog in a double underhook!
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira pushes away Russian Bear trying to keep the fight at striking range
Russian Bear doesn't want to break the clinch as he still is grappling with Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Russian Bear is trying to counter now!
Oleg Taktarov pushes away Big Nog trying to keep the fight at striking range
Big Nog stumbles backwards and Oleg Taktarov circles to get the center of the cage
The clock says 0:30 in the 2 round
Russian Bear fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Big Nog sprawls and remains on his feet.
These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect.
Russian Bear moves backwards and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is asking him if he came today for fighting or running.
The clock says 1:00 in the 2 round
Both fighters circle around the center of the cage.
Big Nog is holding Oleg Taktarov's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Oleg Taktarov loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 1:20 in the 2 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov is a submission wizard. He has forgotten more BJJ than most fighters have learned.
Oleg Taktarov attempts to trap Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in his guard.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira keeps control and remains in side mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira hooks Russian Bear's right leg and sits back for a kneebar!
Oleg Taktarov manages to kick Big Nog away and scrambles on top!
Russian Bear tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Russian Bear tries to show some ground skills
Big Nog uses his strength to keep Big Nog at a disadvantage
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira looks to mount Oleg Taktarov...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira slides his knee across and gets to mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to better his position on the ground...
Big Nog is in a great position to begin a nice round of pounding!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira throws the leg over and rolls it over into an armbar!
Russian Bear breaks the lock showing some skills...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Big Nog is moving on the ground...
Ouch! That was a headbutt! Did he do that intentionally?
John McCarthy didn't see that!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in full mount over Oleg Taktarov
Oleg Taktarov tries to roll to his side and get to half guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira rolls Oleg Taktarov to his stomach and takes his back!
Big Nog is in rear mount over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira slides his arm under Oleg Taktarov's chin and locks the rear naked choke!
Oleg Taktarov pulls down on Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's hand and staves off danger
Russian Bear tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Russian Bear has Big Nog controlling his back while on the ground. He tries to roll and find an escape...
Big Nog is unable to move under Russian Bear control.
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.
Russian Bear pushes Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath.
The clock says 2:50 in the 2 round
Big Nog steps backwards and lowers his arms while breathing heavily... He seems tired.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira goes with a looping right hand while Oleg Taktarov jumps back and jabs
Russian Bear seems staggered and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira runs to capitalize with a bunch of jabs and crosses.
The clock says 3:00 in the 2 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira goes with a looping right hand while Oleg Taktarov jumps back and jabs
That one hits but Russian Bear seems unaffected, countering with a few punches of his own. Great exchange here.
Russian Bear and Big Nog circle around the center of the cage.
The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage.
Big Nog fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Russian Bear sprawls and remains on his feet.
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Russian Bear jumps over his opponent and tries to grapple
Oleg Taktarov pushes his opponent against the fence in a plum position
Oleg Taktarov tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
Big Nog is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position.
The clock says 3:45 in the 2 round
The fighters are clinching.
Oleg Taktarov shoots and grab one of Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's leg, attempting to take him down with a Single Leg
Big Nog lose his balance and falls to the mat
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov has seen better days.
Oleg Taktarov tries to finish with a leg lock!
Big Nog is able to break the lock.
Oleg Taktarov gets sloppy and Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to take advantage...
Big Nog tries an armbar from the bottom!
Oleg Taktarov breaks the lock and moves himself to side control.
The clock says 4:10 in the 2 round
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov isolates Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's arm and neck looking for an arm triangle
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is able to relieve the pressure on his neck and slip out of the hold.
Big Nog is trying to counter now!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira manages to switch to full guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in closed guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear tries to escape from closed guard...
Russian Bear struggles to liberate his leg and jumps to half guard!
The clock says 4:30 in the 2 round
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Big Nog is gassing out... Too bad. His performance may be going down from here.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to move to full guard
Oleg Taktarov keeps good control and remains in half guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to move to full guard
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira manages to switch to full guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira sits up and gets an arm around Russian Bear's neck!
Russian Bear pushes Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira back to the ground.
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
This round is maybe for Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, but it's close.
=========================================
Round 3
=========================================
Big Nog moves backwards and Oleg Taktarov is asking him if he came today for fighting or running.
Big Nog fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Oleg Taktarov didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to finish with a leg lock!
Russian Bear is able to break the lock.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Big Nog is hurt... He should be looking to avoid more damage or he will lose this fight.
Big Nog breaths deeply while on the ground
The clock says 0:55 in the 3 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Russian Bear tries to close his guard around Big Nog
He succeeds!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to better his position on the ground...
Russian Bear holds Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's head against his chin in the closed guard.
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Oleg Taktarov sits up and gets an arm around Big Nog's neck!
Big Nog pushes Oleg Taktarov back to the ground.
The clock says 1:15 in the 3 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Big Nog struggles on the ground and tries to break Oleg Taktarov's guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in Russian Bear open guard now
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to finish with a leg lock!
Russian Bear is able to break the lock.
John McCarthy has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters continue the fight on their feet. You can hear how the people agree with that decision.
Oleg Taktarov is doing his best Floyd Mayweather impression by not engaging.
Russian Bear goes to the body...
his punches graze Big Nog's arm.
Big Nog is trying to counter now!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira moves forward looking for some grappling action
Russian Bear pushes his opponent and keep the fight at striking range
The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage.
Russian Bear steps backwards away from Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. He seems to be cooling down the fight a bit.
The clock says 2:20 in the 3 round
Russian Bear fakes a punch and shoots a takedown!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira didn't see it coming and has been put on the ground!
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov tries to finish with a leg lock!
Big Nog struggles to free himself
Big Nog hyper-extended his leg
That leglock looks tight...
You can see the pain reflected in Big Nog's eyes...
Crippling lock!
Big Nog is able to break the lock.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Big Nog tries to close his guard around Russian Bear
He is not able to do it
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov tries to pass to half guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira can't prevent his opponent from passing. Russian Bear looks to work from half guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov goes for an americana!
That Americana looks tight...
Big Nog Hyper-extended his left arm
You can see the pain reflected in Big Nog's eyes...
Big Nog Hyper-extended his left arm
Crippling lock!
Big Nog struggles to free himself
You can see the pain reflected in Big Nog's eyes...
That Americana from Oleg Taktarov appears to be unbreakable
Big Nog breaks free.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira overhooks an arm and starts cranking! Interesting meneuver.
Russian Bear pulls his arm out of danger.
Big Nog clumsily fails here and it's time for Oleg Taktarov to fight back!
Russian Bear tries to free his leg...
He moves to side mount!
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog tries to show some ground skills
Russian Bear uses his strength to keep Russian Bear at a disadvantage
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Body shots by Oleg Taktarov
Solid blows to Big Nog's abdomen.
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
The clock says 4:10 in the 3 round
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov looks to mount Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira...
Oleg Taktarov slides his knee across and gets to mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Oleg Taktarov doesn't want to lose his adventageous position and he struggles to mantain 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.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and Russian Bear engage in a wild exchange of punches!
Oleg Taktarov is getting the best of the exchange as he lands a few blows.
Russian Bear decides to launch some tentative punches
Nothing from this exchange. Russian Bear moves back and takes a deep breath.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira shoots for a double leg takedown!
Oleg Taktarov sprawls and manages to stay on his feet.
Russian Bear tries to get some advantage after his opponent miss move...
Oleg Taktarov tries to finish the fight with an armbar from the top
Big Nog is smart enough to avoid the submission attempt
John McCarthy separates the fighters as the round concludes. The fighters shake hands as they head back to their corners.
This round is clearly for Oleg Taktarov.
=========================================
Round 4
=========================================
Big Nog looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Oleg Taktarov's punches
Russian Bear is on the receiving end of a great combo by Big Nog.
The clock says 0:25 in the 4 round
Russian Bear looks for angles as he throws a few jabs that are countered by Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's punches
Both fighters are wildly hitting the air!
Nice beating Oleg Taktarov has received.
The fighters size each other up in the center of the cage.
Oleg Taktarov attempts a sweep single...
Oleg Taktarov catches Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's far ankle and trips him to the mat! Slick takedown by Russian Bear.
Oleg Taktarov is in closed guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov looks to posture up and open Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's guard...
Oleg Taktarov forces Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira to open his guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Big Nog tries to close his guard around Russian Bear
He succeeds!
Oleg Taktarov is in closed guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov is looking to pass Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's guard...
Oleg Taktarov gets his hips free and moves to half guard.
The clock says 1:30 in the 4 round
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov tries to pass Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's guard...
Oleg Taktarov manages to get his leg free and moves to side mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov looks to mount Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira...
Oleg Taktarov slides his knee across and gets to mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog and Russian Bear are at the same level nowadays... This match is very interesting because no one knows who will win.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to roll to his side and trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard...
Oleg Taktarov keeps good control and remains in full mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog tries to move on the ground and escape from the full mount!
Oleg Taktarov doesn't want to lose his adventageous position and he struggles to mantain the full mount.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira gets sloppy and Oleg Taktarov tries to take advantage...
Russian Bear suddenly holds Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's arm and tries an armbar!
Big Nog can break the lock and now he is in a closed guard over Oleg Taktarov!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira looks to posture up and open Oleg Taktarov's guard...
Oleg Taktarov has a solid guard and keeps his ankles locked.
The clock says 2:20 in the 4 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to pass Oleg Taktarov's guard...
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira passes momentarily but Oleg Taktarov regains full guard.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Big Nog is in closed guard... Russian Bear tries to roll on the ground!
Nice reversal! He is now in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira!
Oleg Taktarov is in full mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to roll to his side and trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard...
Oleg Taktarov keeps good control and remains in full mount.
John McCarthy 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.
These two fighters are showing each other a ton of respect.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Oleg Taktarov jumps backwards and frees his leg.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira gets sloppy and Oleg Taktarov tries to take advantage...
Oleg Taktarov fakes a punch and launches himself over Big Nog!
Nice move by Russian Bear who clinches and pushes Big Nog against the cage
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Russian Bear tries to breaks Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's resistence with a few punches while tries to push him against oner corner.
Russian Bear launches a couple of punches that leave marks in Big Nog's ribs.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to shrug his way out of the clinch.
Russian Bear is determined to work from the clinch. He pummeled through and managed to retain his position.
Both fighters are tied in a clinch.
Big Nog gets double underhooks and looks for the takedown...
Russian Bear pummels back into position.
John McCarthy separates the fighters and tells them to continue fighting.
Big Nog pushes Oleg Taktarov and moves away from him. He seems to be recovering his breath.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to take the fight to the ground with a one leg takedown...
Oleg Taktarov jumps backwards and frees his leg.
Big Nog clumsily fails here and it's time for Oleg Taktarov to fight back!
Oleg Taktarov fakes a punch and launches himself over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Great move by Russian Bear who pushes his opponent under a troublesome thai clinch
Oleg Taktarov pushes away Big Nog trying to keep the fight at striking range
Big Nog stumbles backwards and Oleg Taktarov circles to get the center of the cage
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to bring the fight to the ground
Russian Bear won't budge, forcing Big Nog to pull guard.
The clock says 4:05 in the 4 round
Oleg Taktarov is in closed guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear is in closed guard... Big Nog tries to roll on the ground!
Oleg Taktarov uses his leg to keep his position on the ground
Big Nog clumsily fails here and it's time for Oleg Taktarov to fight back!
Russian Bear struggles on the ground and tries to break Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's guard...
Oleg Taktarov is in Big Nog open guard now
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira isolates an arm in a kimura attempt!
Russian Bear blocks the hold and uses the opportunity to pass Big Nog's guard.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear tries to get a side mount...
He frees his leg and is now controlling Big Nog from the side mount!
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
The referee separates the fighters as the buzzer sounds.
I don't think either fighter got the better of their opponent that round.
=========================================
Round 5
=========================================
Russian Bear and Big Nog circle around the center of the cage.
Big Nog is holding Oleg Taktarov's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Oleg Taktarov shows great balance while pushing away Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
The clock says 0:40 in the 5 round
Russian Bear studies his opponent looking for a hole in his defense.
Russian Bear and Big Nog circle around the center of the cage.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to bring the fight to the ground
Russian Bear goes down.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Russian Bear tries to close his guard around Big Nog
He succeeds!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in closed guard over Russian Bear
Big Nog looks like the walking dead... I don't know how much more punishement he can receive.
Big Nog is trying to better his position on the ground and launches a couple of elbows against Russian Bear's ribs.
Russian Bear blocks Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira's moves and tries to reverse the situation.
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Russian Bear tries to stand up!
he is now on his feet
John McCarthy halts the fight to stand up Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira. The fight resumes with both fighters standing.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Bizkaia Arena (Barakaldo, Spain) are cheering for the fighters.
Big Nog is holding Oleg Taktarov's right leg... He's trying to take him down.
Oleg Taktarov loses balance and goes to the ground.
The clock says 1:40 in the 5 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Big Nog is a savvy submission specialist. It's an honor just to watch him work on the ground.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira goes for an americana!
Russian Bear breaks free.
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in side mount over Oleg Taktarov
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira hooks Russian Bear's left leg and sits back for a kneebar!
Oleg Taktarov manages to kick Big Nog away and scrambles on top!
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Big Nog reaches under and rolls for a kneebar!
Russian Bear blocks the attempt and uses the opportunity to seize half guard.
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Russian Bear moves on the ground
Oleg Taktarov moves to side mount
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov hooks Big Nog's left leg and sits back for a kneebar!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira manages to kick Russian Bear away and scrambles on top!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to pass to half guard...
Oleg Taktarov's guard is too good and he fails to pass.
The clock says 2:25 in the 5 round
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is in open guard over Russian Bear
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira tries to finish with a leg lock!
Russian Bear is able to break the lock.
The referee decides to stand up the fighters since there was not much action on the ground.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Bizkaia Arena (Barakaldo, Spain) are cheering for the fighters.
Both fighters circle around the center of the cage.
Russian Bear looks like the walking dead... I don't know how much more punishement he can receive.
Oleg Taktarov tries to bring the fight to the ground
Big Nog goes down.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Big Nog tries to close his guard around Russian Bear
He is not able to do it
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Oleg Taktarov pushes Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira against the fence and then tries to improve his position.
Russian Bear jumps and tries to free his leg! Big Nog doesn't allow this but Oleg Taktarov is able to get half guard here.
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Big Nog attempts a triangle from bottom! Oleg Taktarov slips out. Big Nog quickly turns his hips over and switches to the armbar! He's throwing everything at him.
Oleg Taktarov slips out and backs away to avoid danger.
Big Nog clumsily fails here and it's time for Oleg Taktarov to fight back!
Oleg Taktarov opts to go after his opponent and jumps inside Big Nog's guard.
Big Nog didn't see that coming. Russian Bear is in open guard over Big Nog now.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear tries to improve position.
He frees a leg.
The clock says 3:40 in the 5 round
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Big Nog switches to high guard just before trying to sink a triangle!
Russian Bear struggles and his head turns red from the choke, but he manages to slip his head of the lock!
Oleg Taktarov is in half guard over Big Nog
Russian Bear tries to free his leg...
He moves to side mount!
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Big Nog tries to move on the ground and shows Oleg Taktarov a crack in his guard which he uses for a big elbow!
Bang! Big Nog's forehead receives a strong elbow that rocks his head against the mat! John McCarthy knows he may be calling off the fight soon!
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
The clock says 4:20 in the 5 round
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Russian Bear tries to open up Big Nog with a few strikes with his right elbow...
Some nice shots are landing and Big Nog is trying to block them with his hands...
The clock says 4:30 in the 5 round
Oleg Taktarov is in side mount over Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Oleg Taktarov tries a kimura
Big Nog breaks the lock.
Big Nog is trying to counter now!
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira attempts to trap Oleg Taktarov in his guard.
Oleg Taktarov keeps control and remains in side mount.
John McCarthy has seen enough passivity on the ground and stands up the fighters.
Both fighters have climbed to their feet and they continue the fight standing. The people who are watching this in Bizkaia Arena (Barakaldo, Spain) are cheering for the fighters.
Oleg Taktarov tries to bring the fight to the ground
Big Nog goes down.
Oleg Taktarov is in open guard over Big Nog
Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira sits up and gets an arm around Russian Bear's neck!
Russian Bear pushes Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira back to the ground.
Poorly executed technique. Oleg Taktarov looks to counter!
Russian Bear tries to move to full mount
Russian Bear succeeds
The buzzer sounds, marking the end of the round. The ref tells the fighters to go to their corner.
That was an even round for the most part.
Winner is Oleg Taktarov by Split decision
Statistics: Oleg Taktarov
Punches 7/19 (37%)
Kicks 1/1 (100%)
Clinch strikes 3/3 (100%)
Takedowns 5/6 (83%)
GnP strikes 6/9 (67%)
Submissions 10/10 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 1/1 (100%)
Time on the ground 911 s
Statistics: Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira
Punches 15/23 (65%)
Kicks 0/0 (0%)
Clinch strikes 1/1 (100%)
Takedowns 6/13 (46%)
GnP strikes 0/2 (0%)
Submissions 19/19 (100%)
Clinch Attempts 0/0 (0%)
Time on the ground 911 s
I mean...fans wanted more violence, probably? But what can ya do? (Upgrade. The answer is upgrade. That is what you can do!)
