Round 1:
Round 2:
I bag on the IFL repeatedly and didn't even cover the World Grand Prix at all on this site, but I have to give credit where credit is due. This fight is admittedly a lot of fun mostly because the two match-up very well against one another. Markham is the more technical and arguably more athletic fighter (he is certainly the veteran), but Cooper's gameness, heavy hands, and decent chin carry him through. Markham had him in trouble multiple times but was unable to finish the younger fighter. Markham has good power, timing, combinations, and shot location. He chooses when and where to hit quite wisely all while pushing the pace of the fight. Trust me, that's not something that comes naturally to most fighters, much less anyone who trains. I'd say Markham telegraphs his submissions even though his guard is respectable. But none of that ultimately mattered. Cooper persevered under fire against an intensely driven opponent. Excellent fight and good match-making.
And for shits and giggles, check out this Tim Kennedy knockout of Elias Rivera.