Slick and at the same time hard fought shootstyle grappling. They used a lot of rope breaks and a match like this could easily become a soulless repetitive exhibition, but because these guys know how to work the match had lots of highlights and all the nearfalls got good heat. Kohsaka has clearly learned from the russians as he goes right at the cross heel hooks with Zouev. Neat finish too where Zouev goes for the rope again but Kohsaka cranks back and forces the tap.

Loved Zouev just clinging to that early armbar, not letting go for the life of him as TK tries to find a way out. Very competitive and smart matwork, whether it's fighting over holds, leveraging themselves for more pressure or positioning their opponents away from the ropes. Good stuff!