Tag Archives: Pat Curran

Bellator, DAZN, mixed martial arts, MMA, Paramount Network

TICKETS ON SALE THIS WEEK FOR BELLATOR’S RETURN TO ALLSTATE ARENA IN CHICAGO ON MAY 11

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BELLATOR LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMP MICHAEL CHANDLER DEFENDS HIS TITLE AGAINST FEATHERWEIGHT KINGPIN PATRICIO ‘PITBULL’ IN LONG-AWAITED GRUDGE MATCH LIVE ON DAZN



THE WELTERWEIGHT WORLD GRAND PRIX CONTINUES WITH DOUGLAS LIMA TAKING ON MICHAEL ‘VENOM’ PAGE IN SEMI-FINAL ACTION

 

PLUS: UNDEFEATED PROSPECT A.J. MCKEE MEETS CHICAGO’S PAT CURRAN AND THE RETURN OF FORMER WWE STAR JAKE HAGER 

 

LOS ANGELES – Bellator’s return to Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Ill. on Saturday, May 11 is stacked with a must-see lineup of fights, headlined by current lightweight titleholder Michael Chandler (19-4) in his attempt to become the only man to defeat both Pitbull Brothers and put an end to their years-long rivalry, when he defends his belt against Bellator’s 145-pound champ Patricio “Pitbull” (28-4) in the main event of Bellator 221 – which will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

 

The co-headliner will see former two-time Bellator welterweight champion Douglas Lima (30-7) face undefeated Michael “Venom” Page (14-0), better known to fans as “MVP,” in the first semi-final matchup in Bellator’s Welterweight World Grand Prix. Each fighter has their eyes set on moving one step closer to becoming Bellator welterweight champ and taking home one million dollars.

 

In addition, arguably one of the world’s top featherweight prospects A.J. McKee (13-0) will face the stiffest test of his young career when he fights two-time former Bellator featherweight champion Pat Curran (23-7) on Curran’s home turf. Finally, former WWE champion Jake Hager (1-0) returns to the Bellator cage for the first time since his first-round submission victory in January looking to continue his early dominance inside the cage.

 

An exclusive online presale for Bellator 221: Chandler vs. Pitbull takes place between Wednesday, Feb. 20 at 10 a.m. CT and Thursday, Feb. 21 at 10 p.m. CT, with tickets going on-sale to the general public on Friday, Feb. 22 at 12 p.m. CT. Tickets for the event will be available at the Allstate Arena box office, as well as Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com.

 

Bellator 221: Chandler vs. Pitbull will be broadcast live on DAZN at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, while preliminary action will stream on Bellator.com and globally on the Bellator Mobile App. Additional bouts will be announced in coming weeks.

 

One of the most-decorated fighters in Bellator history, Michael Chandler reclaimed the lightweight championship this past December to become a three-time titleholder. “Iron” has defeated a who’s who among the division’s elite, including Brent Primus, Benson Henderson, Patricky Pitbull (x2), Goiti Yamauchi and Eddie Alvarez. The former University of Missouri wrestler from High Ridge, Mo., who now calls Nashville home, has had a slow-building feud with his May 11 opponent, verbally sparring with his foe following wins over Patricio’s brother Patricky and on social media. Now, the time for talk is over and both will enter the Bellator cage to finally settle the score.

 

Hailing from Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, two-time featherweight champ Patricio “Pitbull” will enter the Bellator cage for a promotional record 21th time. With impressive wins to his name over Daniel Straus (x3), Daniel Weichel (x2) and Pat Curran, he most recently defeated Emmanuel Sanchez via unanimous decision at Bellator 209. Moving up a weight class for the first time since Bellator 160 when he met Benson Henderson, “Pitbull” is planning to leave his mark in a new division and go down as one of the all-time greats. Having earned a finish in 20 of his 28 wins as a professional, the reigning champion has become synonymous with excitement and fans can certainly expect more fireworks when looks to become a simultaneous two-division champion on May 11.

 

Fighting out of Atlanta, Ga., by way of Goiania, Brazil, Douglas “The Phenom” Lima has been a mainstay at the top of the 170-pound division for the better part of three years. With wins against the likes of Lorenz Larkin, Andrey Koreshkov (x2), Paul Daley and Ben Saunders, the 31-year-old advanced to the semifinals of the Welterweight World Grand Prix after a technical submission win against Koreshkov. A winner of nine out of his last 11 contests, the American Top Team product remains set on showing the world how dominant he truly is.

 

One of the most unorthodox strikers to ever compete, “MVP” has steadily worked his way up the welterweight ranks since signing with the organization in 2013. Known for his unique style and personality both inside the cage and out, every Michael Page fight is must-see entertainment. With an undefeated record of 14-0, and 11 of those victories coming by stoppage, the 31-year-old out of London Shootfighters advanced to the semifinals following a closely contested unanimous decision win against rival Paul Daley at Bellator 216.

 

Fighting out of Long Beach, Calif., A.J. McKee puts his undefeated record on the line against the former champ on May 11. Currently training alongside the likes of Aaron Pico,“Baby Slice” and Joey Davis at The Body Shop under the tutelage of his father, MMA veteran Antonio McKee, the second-generation fighter has been making quite the name for himself since joining the professional ranks. At just 23 years of age, “Mercenary” has set the Bellator record for consecutive wins at 13, having defeated Daniel Crawford, Brian Moore, John “Macapa, Justin Lawrence and Dominic Mazzotta along the way. Known for his highlight-reel finishes, McKee will look to remain unbeaten and keep his name etched in the record books when he meets Curran at Bellator 221. A former two-time Bellator world featherweight champion, Pat Curran returns to the cage near his hometown looking to earn another shot at gold. Fighting out of Crystal Lake, Ill., “Paddy Mike” is in the midst of a three-fight win streak that includes victories over Emmanuel Sanchez, John “Macapa”and Georgi Karakhanyan. The longtime Bellator veteran, who debuted at Bellator 14 in 2010, owns additional wins over Patricio “Pitbull,” Joe Warren, Roger Huerta and Daniel Straus. Also, a two-time Bellator tournament winner, the 31-year-old’s return to the top of the 145-pound division begins with a tough test against McKee.

 

A native of Perry, Okla., Hager emphatically showed the world that he belongs in the sport of MMA with a submission win over J.W. Kizer at Bellator 214 in January. A collegiate wrestler at the University of Oklahoma, where he was an All-American and set the school record for most pins at the 285-pound weight class in a single season with 30. Following graduation and a conversation with legendary pro wrestling announcer and fellow Oklahoma Sooner, Jim Ross, Hager made the transition to professional wrestling and signed with World Wrestling Entertainment. While in WWE, Hager would go on to claim multiple coveted professional titles during his time with the organization, including the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, ECW Championship and WWE United States Championship. Now, the man also known to fans around the globe as “Jack Swagger” will return to action MMA action in Chicago against a soon-to-be-announced heavyweight opponent.

 

Updated Bellator 221: Chandler vs. Pitbull Card:

Lightweight World Title Bout: Michael Chandler (19-4) vs. Patricio “Pitbull” (28-4)

Welterweight World Grand Prix Semi-final: Douglas Lima (30-7) vs. Michael “Venom” Page (14-0)

Featherweight Main Card Bout: A.J. McKee (13-0) vs. Pat Curran (23-7)

Heavyweight Main Card Bout: Jake Hager (1-0) vs. TBA

 
*Card subject to change

 

Please visit Bellator.com for more information.

 
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

BELLATOR 184: DANTAS VS. CALDWELL RESULTS & PHOTOS

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COMPLETE EVENT PHOTOS HERE

 

Darrion Caldwell (11-1) defeated Eduardo Dantas (20-4) via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 50-45)

 

Quote from Darrion Caldwell: “I have been waiting for this moment for my whole life. Darrion Caldwell is the Bellator bantamweight champion, that has a nice ring to it doesn’t it? I want to be an active champion, I want to bring some prestige to this belt. You’ll be hearing from me very soon.”

 

Emmanuel Sanchez (16-3) defeated Daniel Straus (24-8, 1 NC) via submission (triangle choke) at 1:56 of round three

 

Quote from Emmanuel Sanchez: “Since I signed with Bellator I’ve always taken on everyone Scott Coker has put in front of me. Nothing is changing now, so tell me, who’s next? It doesn’t matter what weight class, or who it is, I’ll fight anyone.”


Pat Curran (23-7) defeated John “Macapa” (21-3-2) via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-26)

 

Quote from Pat Curran: “It felt so great to get back inside the Bellator cage. This was the calmest, most composed I’ve ever felt while competing. Now, one job is done and I can focus on my other. But let me make one thing clear, I want that belt.”

 

Leandro Higo (18-3) defeated Joe Taimanglo (23-8) via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

 

Quote from Leandro Higo: “Tonight was my first step towards getting back to where I belong. During my debut, I was filling in on short notice and unfortunately missed weight. For this fight, I made sure to come in at 135-pounds to show my commitment to becoming a world champion. It doesn’t matter who wins tonight’s main event, the bantamweight belt will be mine.”

 

Manny Muro (9-3) defeated Emmanuel Rivera (6-2) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Sean Holden (6-2) defeated Shakir McKillup (7-6) via TKO (punches) at 4:39 of round two

Carrington Banks (7-0) defeated Steve Kozola (8-1) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-25, 30-25)

Chance Rencountre (11-2) defeated Justin Patterson (9-4) via submission (D’Arce choke) at 2:58 of round one

Teagan Dooley (6-2) defeated DeMarcus Simmons (1-1) via submission (Americana) at 2:12 of round two

Westin Wilson (5-2) defeated L.J. Hermreck (3-3) via submission (rear-naked choke) at :55 of round two

Kendall Carnahan (6-1) defeated Daniel Carey (3-2) via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

Ernest James (1-0) defeated Ray Jones (0-1) via TKO (punches) 2:53 of round one

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

EDUARDO DANTAS NULLIFIES WRESTLING OF JOE WARREN, RETAINS BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE IN ‘BELLATOR 166’ REMATCH

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Complete Event Photos Here

THACKERVILLE, OK. (Dec. 2, 2016) — Despite receiving a point-deduction for a low kick in the fifth and final round, Eduardo Dantas (19-4) was impeccable on the feet during his rematch with Joe Warren (14-6) at “Bellator 166” on Friday, peppering Warren with jabs for 25-minutes and earning a majority decision (47-47, 49-44, 48-46) in front of a packed house at WinStar Resort and Casino.

With the loss, Warren’s bid for a third Bellator MMA title reign ended, as he was unable to secure a takedown throughout the main event bout. “The World’s Baddest Man” had never lost a fight that went to the judges’ scorecards until Friday, while “Dudu” rectified the defeat he took against Warren at “Bellator 128.” 

After the fight, Dantas dedicated his victory to the families of those affected by the deadly plane crash suffered by the Chapecoense Soccer Team in Brazil last week. The victory now sets the stage for tomorrow night’s “Bellator 167” event, which pits Joe Taimanglo against Darrion Caldwell.

McKee Overcomes Adversity, Remains Undefeated with Impressive Ground-and-Pound Victory

In the evening’s featherweight co-main event, A.J. McKee (6-0) came from behind to defeat Ray Wood (7-3) with a unanimous decision triumph (29-27, 30-25, 30-27). McKee was tested early in the opening round, as Wood landed multiple blows that sent McKee flying to the canvas. However, McKee was able to stay the course and answered the bell, convincingly dominating Wood during the final two frames. Wood becomes just the first of McKee’s six victims to make it out of the first round, forcing the 21-year-old “Mercenary” into his first-ever decision. Fighting out of Long Beach, Calif., McKee proclaimed his desire to compete on the upcoming “Bellator 170: Ortiz vs. Sonnen” super-card after the win, calling out his previously scheduled opponentEmmanuel Sanchez.

Galvao Edges Davis for Split Decision win in Bantamweight Thriller

 

In a night highlighted by a pair of phenomenal bantamweight matchups, Marcos Galvao (18-7-1) was able to squeak out a tightly fought contest with L.C. Davis (23-8), emerging victorious with a split decision win (29-28 x2, 28-29). A 12-fight veteran of Bellator MMA, Galvao earned his eighth victory under the promotion’s direction and first of his 2016 campaign. “Loro” seems to be finding his groove, tallying victories in five of his past six contests. For Davis, the loss is just his second since joining the Scott Coker-led promotion in 2014.

Chris Honeycutt Delivers Flawless Performance – Rewarded With Unanimous Decision Victory

 

In the opening bout of “Bellator 166,“ Chris Honeycutt (9-1, 1 NC) brought a rowdy Thackerville crowd to their feet throughout the course of a one-sided middleweight affair, defeating Ben Reiter (17-2-1) via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-25 x2). An early knee, coupled with a ruthless combination of blows opened a sizeable gash on the side of Reiter’s head, forcing the 29-year-old New Yorker to take some chances. The win is Honeycutt’s second consecutive victory at 185-pounds, opening the door in what is currently a wide open division. For Reiter, the loss is just the second of his career, the first of which also came at WinStar Resort and Casino.

Preliminary Card Results:

Gregory Babene (18-11) defeated Emiliano Sordi (14-6) via submission (Guillotine Choke) at 3:11 of round one

Treston Thomison (10-4) defeated Dawond Pickney (10-6) via submission (Arm-bar) at :51 of round one

Derrick Adkins (9-3) defeated Chris Jones (10-5) via submission (Brabo Choke) at 4:09 of round two

Kinny Spotwood (3-2) defeated John King (4-4) via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

LIGHTWEIGHT REMATCH PITTING PATRICKY PITBULL AGAINST DEREK CAMPOS SERVES AS MAIN EVENT AT SECOND NIGHT OF BELLATOR DOUBLEHEADER INSIDE WINSTAR WORLD CASINO & RESORT

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JOHN TEIXEIRA GETS NEW OPPONENT JUSTIN LAWRENCE WHILE TOP WRESTLING PROSPECT JAROD TRICE MAKES HIS DEBUT AGAINST BRANDON LEE ON STACKED PRELIMINARY CARD

 

 

SANTA MONICA, CALIF. (November 1, 2016) – An undisclosed injury to Pat Curran, who was originally scheduled to fight John Teixeira(20-1-2), has opened the door for a lightweight main event pitting Patricky Pitbull (16-8) against Derek Campos (17-6) on the second night of a special doubleheader inside WinStar World Casino & Resort in Thackerville, OK., on Saturday, December 3.

 

In lieu of the injured former featherweight champion, Teixeira will now face Justin Lawrence (9-3) in main card action. In addition, Bellator MMA is pleased to announce the professional debut of three-time All American wrestling prospect Jarod Trice, who will challenge Brandon Lee (4-1) during the Bellator.com-streamed preliminary card.

 

The second night of entertainment – “Bellator 167” – features a flyweight bout pitting undefeated budding superstar Ilima-Lei MacFarlane (4-0) against Emily Ducote (4-1), as well as Chidi Njokuani (15-4, 1 NC) versus Andre Fialho (7-0) in three rounds of welterweight action on the Spike-televised main card.

 

A bantamweight world title rematch pitting current champion Eduardo Dantas (18-4) against Joe Warren (14-5) and a featherweight bout pitting undefeated prospect A.J. McKee (5-0) against Emmanuel Sanchez (13-3) will highlight the first night of excitement at “Bellator 166.”Lastly, a bantamweight bout between Marcos Galvao (17-7-1) and L.C. Davis (23-7) will also be featured on the main card of the doubleheader’s opening night.

 

Tickets for the unique doubleheader event start at just $45 and can be purchased at the WinStar World Casino & Resort Box Office, as well as Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.

 

“Bellator 167: Pitbull vs. Campos 2” airs live and free on Saturday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT., while “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2”airs live and free on Friday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. Preliminary bouts for both events will stream live on Bellator.com and The Bellator Mobile App.

 

The 30-year-old Brazilian star originally caught the promotion’s attention following an electric start to his professional career, as he earned a victory in seven of his first eight fights. Now a 16-fight veteran of Bellator MMA, Freire enters the contest having won six of his last nine bouts, including knockout finishes over division powerhouses Ryan Couture, David Rickels, and most notably Derek Campos in the pair’s first brawl two years ago. The second round victory over Campos marked only the second time in his career that an opponent was able to finish him via knockout. Freire has already put together a stellar 2016 campaign, with wins over Couture and Kevin Souza, as well as a lightweight title shot against Michael Chandler. “Pitbull” will look to further cement his feet atop the division’s elite with a strong performance against the equally-tested veteran Campos.

 

Prior to an undisclosed injury, Campos was originally set for a rematch with “Pitbull” in Italy at “Bellator 152,” but now the 28-year-old Texan will have his shot at revenge even closer to home base. Hailing from Lubbock, Texas, “The Stallion” comes in having won eight of his last 11 bouts, including knockout victories over Melvin Guillard and Estevan Payan. With a professional record of 3-1 in Thackerville, including a KOTC Junior Welterweight Championship in 2012, Campos has clearly claimed WinStar World Casino & Resort his home away from home. Currently riding a recent string of success, Campos will look to add to his current two-fight winning streak and continue his dominance in OK.

 

The 29-year-old Teixeira continues to make a name for himself in Bellator MMA’s featherweight division, as he will make his fourth appearance under the promotion’s direction following three consecutive victories. Similar to his opponent, Teixeira also steps into the cage on a recent string of success, having won seven of his last eight bouts, including a trio of first round knockouts. Prior to his days with Bellator MMA, Teixeira began his professional career fighting exclusively in Brazil, posting an undefeated record of 12-0 with one draw. The upcoming bout marks only the fourth time in Teixeira’s nine year career that he will fight outside of his native Brazil. With 14 of his 19 career wins coming by way of knockout or submission, you can be sure to see “Macapa” go for the finishing blow early and often in this mouthwatering matchup.

 

Following the recent news of an undisclosed injury that forced Pat Curran to withdraw, Lawrence has agreed to fill in to face Teixeira. After beginning his professional career under the direction of Strikeforce, Lawrence has found a home in Bellator MMA’s formidable featherweight division. “The American Kid” has tallied a pair of highlight-reel knockouts since joining the Scott Coker-led promotion last year, including his most recent victory over Isao Kobayashi at “Bellator 157: Dynamite 2.” The emphatic finish was the fifth of his young career and fourth by way of knockout. Dating back to 2013, the 26-year-old striker has won five of his last six contests, three of which came by way of knockout. Hailing from Pacific, Missouri, the former UFC competitor will look to keep the ball rolling against another tough opponent in Teixeira.

 

Three-time All American wrestling prospect Jarod Trice will be making his highly anticipated professional debut, following his recent signing with the promotion earlier this year. Trice joins Aaron Pico, Ed Ruth and Tyrell Fortune as a few of the recent signees that make up the new wave of incredibly talented wrestling prospects to flock to Bellator MMA. The Detroit, Michigan native competed at Central Michigan University, where he has also earned a National Title at 120 kg and two Greco Roman National Titles, with one at 120 kg and another at 98 kg.The 27-year-old also saw a great deal of success following an impressive 50-pound weight-loss transformation, something that will surely come in handy in a sport that demands severe weight discipline.

 

Fighting out of Clinton, OK., Lee will not have to travel far when he makes his Bellator MMA debut inside WinStar World Casino & Resort in Thackerville, on December 3. The 41-year-old heavyweight has had a great deal of success to date, recording four wins over his five career bouts under the direction of regional promotions. “The Undertaker” has finished his opponent in the opening round of each of his four professional victories, including a brutal knockout in his most recent win earlier this year. Lee will drop down to the 205-pound division for his promotional debut, looking to crash the party that is top prospect Jarod Trice and his widely followed professional debut.

 

Complete “Bellator 167: Pitbull vs. Campos 2” Main Card:

Lightweight Main Event: Patricky “Pitbull” Freire (16-8) vs. Derek Campos (17-6)

Flyweight Feature Bout: Ilima MacFarlane (4-0) vs. Emily Ducote (4-1)

Welterweight Feature Bout: Chidi Njokuani (15-4, 1 NC) vs. Andre Fialho (7-0)

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: John Teixeira (19-1-2) vs. Justin Lawrence (9-3)

 

Updated Preliminary Card:

Light Heavyweight Preliminary Bout: Jarod Trice (Debut) vs. Brandon Lee (4-1)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Abdul Razak Al Hassan (5-0) vs. Dakota Cochrane (26-10)

Lightweight Preliiminary Bout: Jonathan Gary (11-6) vs. Aaron Roberson (5-4)

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: Brandon Philips (6-2) Stephen Banaszak (5-5)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Justin Patterson (7-1) vs. Codale Ford (11-8)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Fernando Gonzalez (Debut) vs. Chris Hicks (3-8)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

FORMER DIVISION CHAMP MARCOS GALVAO RETURNS TO FACE L.C. DAVIS DURING OPENING NIGHT OF BELLATOR MMA DOUBLEHEADER AT WINSTAR WORLD CASINO & RESORT

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CHRIS HONEYCUTT-BEN REITER MIDDLEWEIGHT BOUT PUTS STAMP ON STACKED MAIN CARD

SANTA MONICA, CALIF. (October 31, 2016) – A bantamweight feature fight pitting Marcos Galvao (17-7-1) against L.C. Davis (23-7) and a middleweight clash between Chris Honeycutt (8-1, 1 NC) and Ben Reiter (17-1-1) have been added to the main card of “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” inside WinStar World Casino & Resort in Thackerville, OK., on December 2.

The first night of entertainment – “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” — will feature a bantamweight world title rematch between current champion Eduardo Dantas (18-4) and former belt holder Joe Warren (14-5). In addition, a featherweight clash pitting undefeated prospect A.J. McKee (5-0) against Emmanuel Sanchez (13-3) will also air live and free on the SPIKE-televised card.

Tickets for the unique doubleheader event start at just $45 and can be purchased at the WinStar World Casino & Resort Box Office, as well as Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.

“Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” airs live and free on Friday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. “Bellator 167” airs live and free on Saturday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. Preliminary bouts for both events will stream live on Bellator.com and The Bellator Mobile App. Additional bouts will be announced in the coming weeks.

Brazilian superstar Marcos Galvao returns to action having won seven of his last nine and is ready for another push at the division’s belt. Hailing from Amazonas, Brazil, the illusive “Loro” has only been finished once in the past seven years, while conversely finishing his opponent in five of his 11 wins over that same period. Now Galvao returns to WinStar World Casino & Resort, the same venue where he fought and defeated Joe Warren for bantamweight gold at “Bellator 135.” Subsequently, Warren will also prepare to compete at “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2,” as he and Eduardo Dantas will face off in the main event. Needless to say, the 34-year-old Galvao will have tremendous motivation to win, as the division he once championed dominates a stacked main card in Thackerville.

Davis enters the contest for the fifth time under the Bellator MMA banner, earning victories in three of his first four bouts with the promotion. The 35-year-old bantamweight has finished his opponent in 15 of his 23 career wins, including 11 in the opening round. A winner in seven of his last nine contests, the Kansas City, Missouri native consistently finds himself amid conversation with the division’s top contenders. Davis hopes to replicate the same success that he had in his most recent victory over Hideo Tokoro at “Bellator 135,” where his split decision win was labeled Yahoo! Sports’ “Best Fight of the Half-Year.” The former Pratt Community College wrestling coach now faces an opportunity to climb the ranks in a tasty matchup against one of the game’s best.

A six-fight veteran of Bellator MMA, Honeycutt made a lasting impression in his first two appearances under the promotion, recording back-to-back knockouts. Fighting out of Fresno, Calif., the 28-year-old knockout artist began his professional career with an impressive streak of six consecutive victories, including five finishes and four knockouts. “The Cutt” made a successful transition to the welterweight division in his Bellator MMA debut in 2014, before returning to the middleweight class in his most recent win over Mikkel Parlo at “Bellator 156.”

After making his professional debut in 2011, Reiter collected sixteen wins before surrendering his first career loss. The 29-year-old New Yorker competed mainly in Peru early in his career, fighting under the direction of Inka Fighting Championship, before joining the Bellator MMA fray in 2014. Since making his promotional debut for the Scott Coker-led organization, “The Hunter” has added three more victories to his already impressive résumé, as he quickly finds himself among the division’s elite. With nine of his 17 career wins coming by way of knockout or submission, Reiter hopes to add to that total with another finish in the first of a two-night special doubleheader in Thackerville, OK. Standing at six feet three inches, Reiter will look to expose his opponent Honeycutt with a significant advantage in both height and reach.

 

Complete “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” Main Card:

Bantamweight World Title Main Event: Eduardo Dantas (18-4) vs. Joe Warren (14-5)

Featherweight Co-Main Event: A.J. McKee (5-0) vs. Emmanuel Sanchez (13-3)

Bantamweight Feature Bout: Marcos Galvao (17-7-1) vs. L.C. Davis (23-7)

Middleweight Feature Bout: Chris Honeycutt (8-1, 1 NC) vs. Ben Reiter (17-1-1)

 

Updated Preliminary Card:

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: Treston Thomison (9-4) vs. Ray Wood (7-2)

Lightweight Preliminary Bout: Chris Jones (10-4) vs. Derrick Adkins (7-2)

Light Heavyweight Preliminary Bout: Kennedy Nzechukwu (Debut) vs. Jon Lair (2-0)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Chance Rencountre (8-2) Levi Queen (8-3)

Middleweight Preliminary Bout: Gregory Babene (17-11) vs. Emiliano Sordi (14-5)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

SECOND NIGHT OF BELLATOR DOUBLEHEADER FEATURES FLYWEIGHT BOUT PITTING UNDEFEATED ILIMA MACFARLANE AGAINST EMILY DUCOTE AT WINSTAR WORLD CASINO & RESORT

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CHIDI NJOKUANI-ANDRE FIALHO ALSO ADDED TO MAIN CARD OF ‘BELLATOR 167’ ON DECEMBER 3

SANTA MONICA, CALIF. (October 21, 2016) – A flyweight clash pitting Ilima-Lei MacFarlane (4-0) against Emily Ducote (4-1) and a welterweight bout pitting Chidi Njokuani (15-4, 1 NC) against Andre Fialho (7-0) have been added to the main card of “Bellator 167: Curran vs. Teixeira,” which will take place inside WinStar World Casino & Resort in Thackerville, OK., on Saturday, December 3.

The second night of entertainment – “Bellator 167” — will feature a featherweight main event between Pat Curran (22-7) and John Teixeira (19-1-2), while “Bellator 166” is headlined by a bantamweight world title rematch pitting current champion Eduardo Dantas (18-4) against Joe Warren (14-5) and a featherweight bout pitting undefeated prospect A.J. McKee (5-0) against Emmanuel Sanchez (13-3).

Tickets for the unique doubleheader event start at just $45 and can be purchased at the WinStar World Casino & Resort Box Office, as well as Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.

“Bellator 167: Curran vs. Teixeira” airs live and free on Saturday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT., while “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” also airs live and free on Friday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. Preliminary bouts for both events will stream live on Bellator.com and The Bellator Mobile App. Additional bouts will be announced in the coming weeks.

Possibly no name is growing faster in the MMA community than Ilima-Lei MacFarlane’s, as the 26-year-old flyweight has rapidly climbed the ranks with four consecutive victories and three finishes. The undefeated submission specialist has emerged victorious in her first three bouts under the Scott Coker-led promotion, and finishing both Amber Tackett and Rebecca Ruth via submission. Hailing from Honolulu, Hawaii, “The Ilimanator” has secured one career knockout victory, which came just 10 seconds into her first professional bout and spread virally around the internet. MacFarlane will now direct her attention to another one of Bellator MMA’s top young female competitors, Emily Ducote.

The 23-year-old Ducote will look to add to an already impressive 2016 campaign, having earned victories in each of her four fights this year. Ducote’s most recent pair of wins have come under the Bellator MMA umbrella, recording back-to-back second round submission finishes over Brazilian flyweights Bruna Vargas and Kenya Miranda. Ducote will now look to add to her current four-fight winning streak, as she prepares for what is undoubtedly the toughest opponent of her young career. A native of Oklahoma City, “Gordinha” returns home to fight in her back yard, where she anticipates a sold out WinStar World Casino & Resort chock full of close friends and family.

Njokuani made his presence felt early in his career, recording finishes in each of his first seven career victories, including six knockouts and six first round finishes. “Chidi Bang Bang” continued to see success with his knockout power, as 10 of his 15 career wins came by way of knockout or submission. You’d be hard pressed to find a more consistent fighter than Njokuani right now, the 27-year-old Las Vegas native enters the cage in search of his seventh consecutive victory and 11 of his last 12, dating back to 2012. Njokuani has won both of his first two bouts under the direction of Bellator MMA since joining the promotion in 2015, with key victories over the likes of Ricky Rainey and Thiago Jambo Goncalves. He hopes to add to that list when he joins his opponent Andre Fialho on December 3.

With an unblemished mark of 7-0, Fialho joins his opponent Njokuani as one of the most feared knockout artists in the game. The 22-year-old welterweight has finished each of his seven opponents and tacked on six knockouts. Possibly even more impressive is the manner in which the young Portuguese prospect has defeated his opponents, with six of the seven victories coming in the first round and three in the first minute of action. Since joining the Bellator MMA fray earlier this year, Fialho has recorded first round knockout wins over Manuel Meraz and Rick Reger, proving early in his career that he belongs with the top dogs. We can be sure to see some fireworks fly when Fialho enters the cage inside WinStar World Casino & Resort in Thackerville this December.

 

Updated “Bellator 167: Curran vs. Teixeira” Main Card:

Featherweight Main Event: Pat Curran (22-7) vs. John Teixeira (19-1-2)

Flyweight Feature Bout: Ilima MacFarlane (4-0) vs. Emily Ducote (4-1)

Welterweight Feature Bout: Chidi Njokuani (15-4, 1 NC) vs. Andre Fialho (7-0)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

BELLATOR MMA PRESENTS A SPECIAL DOUBLEHEADER ON DECEMBER 2 & 3 FROM THE WINSTAR WORLD CASINO & RESORT IN OK.

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NIGHT ONE WILL SEE A BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE REMATCH PITTING CHAMPION EDUARDO DANTAS AGAINST JOE WARREN

 

NIGHT TWO HEADLINED BY FEATHERWEIGHT MAIN EVENT BETWEEN FORMER CHAMPION PAT CURRAN AND JOHN TEIXEIRA

 

 

SANTA MONICA, CALIF. (October 10, 2016) – Bellator MMA is thrilled to announce the promotion’s first ever Friday/Saturday doubleheader event. The first night of entertainment will feature a bantamweight world title rematch pitting current division champion Eduardo Dantas (18-4) against a dangerous former two-division champion Joe Warren (14-5), which joins a previously announced featherweight showdown between A.J. McKee (5-0) and Emmanuel Sanchez (13-3).

 

Meanwhile, the second night of action will be headlined by a featherweight fight pitting former champion Pat Curran (22-7) against John Teixeira (19-1-2).

 

The unique doubleheader event will take place on Friday, December 2 and Saturday, December 3 inside WinStar World Casino & Resort in Thackerville, OK. Tickets start at just $45 and can be purchased at the WinStar World Casino & Resort Box Office, as well as Ticketmaster and Bellator.com.

 

“Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” airs live and free on Friday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, while preliminary bouts will stream live on Bellator.com and The Bellator Mobile App.

 

“Bellator 167: Curran vs. Teixeira” airs live and free on Saturday on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, while preliminary bouts will stream live on Bellator.com and The Bellator Mobile App. Additional bouts will be announced in the coming weeks.

 

Fresh off a win over Marcos Galvao that crowned him bantamweight champion, the 27-year-old Dantas will look to defend his belt for the first time this year. The elusive Brazilian enters the contest having won 11 of his past 13 bouts, including seven finishes, giving him a total of 10 stoppages over his 18 career victories. Since making his promotional debut in 2011, “Dudu” has cemented himself among the Bellator MMA elite, collecting wins in eight of his nine appearances, with the lone loss coming at the hands of his upcoming opponent, Joe Warren. After successfully defending his title twice, Dantas lost the belt to Warren via unanimous decision at “Bellator 128.” Now that he has the gold around his waist again, Dantas will need to put forth his best effort to ensure history does not repeat itself against “The Baddest Man on the Planet.”

 

Warren will be looking to duplicate his success against the feisty Dantas, after defeating him in a five round, 25-minute bloodbath that took place in the same venue nearly two years ago. The win capped off a five-fight winning streak and allowed Warren to unify the 135-pound title. A native of Denver, Colorado, “The Baddest Man on the Planet” has now emerged victorious in seven of his last nine bouts, including his most recent finish over former UFC competitor Sirwan Kakai at “Bellator 161: Kongo vs. Johnson.” At 39 years old, the former two-division Bellator MMA champion will now attempt to become the oldest fighter to win a championship in Bellator history.

 

Bellator MMA veteran Pat Curran will enter the cage for the 17th time under the direction of the Scott Coker-led promotion, which will tie him with David Rickels for the most in the promotion’s history. On top of that, “Paddy Mike” will have the opportunity to join Patricio “Pitbull” for the most wins in Bellator MMA history, with 13, if he can emerge victorious. Since joining the promotion in 2010, Curran has accrued 12 wins, including notable victories over current featherweight champion Daniel Straus, former featherweight titleholder Patricio “Pitbull,” and former bantamweight/featherweight king Joe Warren. The 29-year-old Crystal Lake, Illinois native comes in on a hot streak, having won two consecutive bouts and nine of his last 12. With two World Title victories and a pair of successful title defenses under his belt, Curran has proven time and time again that his name belongs atop Bellator MMA’s always-competitive featherweight division.

 

The 29-year-old Teixeira continues to make a name for himself in Bellator MMA’s featherweight division, as he makes his fourth appearance under the promotion’s direction. Similar to his opponent, Teixeira also steps into the cage on a recent string of success, having won three straight and seven of his last eight bouts, including a trio of first-round knockouts. Prior to his days with Bellator MMA, Teixeira began his professional career fighting exclusively in Brazil, posting an undefeated record of 12-0 with one draw. The upcoming bout marks only the fourth time in Teixeira’s nine year career that he will fight outside of his native Brazil. With 14 of his 19 career wins coming by way of knockout or submission, you can be sure to see “Macapa” go for the finishing blow early and often in this mouthwatering matchup.

 

Updated “Bellator 166: Dantas vs. Warren 2” Main Card:

Bantamweight World Title Main Event: Eduardo Dantas (18-4) vs. Joe Warren (14-5)

Featherweight Feature Bout: A.J. McKee (5-0) vs. Emmanuel Sanchez (13-3)

 

Updated “Bellator 167: Curran vs. Teixeira”Main Card:

Featherweight Main Event: Pat Curran (22-7) vs. John Teixeira (19-1-2)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

RAFAEL CARVALHO STEALS SPLIT DECISION, RETAINING MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE IN ‘BELLATOR 155’ MAIN EVENT

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Complete Event Photos Here

BOISE, IDAHO (May 20, 2016) – Rafael Carvalho (13-1) defended his middleweight belt in controversial fashion at the CenturyLink Arena in Boise, Idaho on Friday night, taking home a split decision win over at the expense of Melvin Manhoef (30-13).

The packed house was less than enthusiastic with the judges’ decision, which amounted to two 48-47 scores for Carvalho, while Manhoef took home one of the same tally.

With the victory, the 29-year old Brazilian is now 4-0 under the Bellator MMA umbrella and continues to ride his remarkable 13-fight winning streak.

BELLATOR KICKBOXING: ST. LOUIS ANNOUNCED

The first fight for “Bellator Kickboxing: St. Louis” has been announced in a rematch of sorts, pitting Joe Schilling against Hisaki Kato. When the two first met at “Bellator 139: Kongo vs. Volkov,” Kato stunned Schilling with a “Superman punch” knockout that many pundits considered to be the “2015 Knockout of the Year.” That was MMA, and this time the two will fight in a kickboxing match. A world champion kickboxer, “Stitch ‘Em Up” Schilling  will look for revenge against Kato, a karate striker.

Additional fights, including a main event matchup will be announced shortly.

The second event for the brand new Bellator Kickboxing promotion will take place on June 24, immediately following “Bellator: Dynamite 2” at the Scottrade Center in St. Louis, and will air LIVE and FREE on SPIKE.

Featherweight Co-Main Event Ends in Unanimous Decision Victory for Pat Curran

It took all three rounds to determine a winner in the evening’s co-main event, but in the end, former two-time Bellator champion Pat Curran (22-7) emerged victorious with a unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) win over Georgi Karakhanyan (24-6-1). “Paddy Mike” connected with a great left hook that dropped Karakhanyan to the mat. The Chicago native relied heavily on his ground game in this one, consistently forcing Karakhanyan into uncomfortable positions and ultimately leading to the featherweight’s 12th win under the Bellator MMA fray.

Heavyweight Slugfest Ends in Draw for Dan Charles and Augusto Sakai

The evening’s second heavyweight feature fight was heavily overshadowed by multiple low blows from the foot of Augusto Sakai (9-0-1), leaving Dan Charles (10-3-1) curled over the canvas and gasping for air. In a bout that took every bit of 15 minutes, the judges’ scorecard concluded a majority draw (30-26 Charles, 28-28, 28-28), making it just the ninth in Bellator MMA history. Although the Brazilian Sakai remains undefeated, his nine-fight winning streak came to an end with the bittersweet finish at CenturyLink Arena in Boise, Idaho. For Charles, it was the third time in his five-year career that a fight went the distance and the first of his 14 bouts to end in a majority draw.

Alexis Dufresne Shocks MMA World With Submission Victory Over Marloes Coenen

In a highly-anticipated female catchweight bout, Alexis Dufresne (6-2) delivered one of the largest upsets of the year by finishing Dutch superstar Marloes Coenen (23-7) with an armbar submission 4:33 into the first round. Along with Miesha Tate, “Sneaky Zebra” becomes just the second fighter ever to force Coenen to tap out. Not far removed from the birth of her first child, the 25-year-old Dufresne was able to impress in her Bellator MMA debut, despite being a +500 underdog.

Gormley Outlasts Beltran in Heavyweight Opener

During the opening contest at “Bellator 155: Carvalho vs. Manhoef,” Joey Beltran (17-13) and Chase Gormley (13-5) traded blows in what was a heavyweight dogfight that took all three rounds to claim a victor. In the end, it was Gormley that came out on top with the split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29) win over “The Mexicutioner.” Gormley, a 32-year-old native of Los Angeles is now 7-0 when his fights go to the judges table. The win is his first with the Bellator MMA promotion and sixth of his last seven bouts.

Preliminary Card Results:

Vince Morales (4-1) defeated Hamilton Ash (3-2) via KO at 2:32 of round three

Joe Hamilton (4-0) defeated Tyler Freeland (3-1) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 0:22 of round one

Casey Johnson (5-0) defeated Brendon Raftery (4-3) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 1:16 of round two

Marcin Held (22-4) defeated Dave Jansen (20-4) via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 2x)

Jesse Brock (22-8) defeated Olly Bradstreet (39-13) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 3:57 of round three

Will Noland (16-6) defeated Sean Powers (9-6) via KO (punches) at 3:29 of round one

Scott Thometz (10-5) defeated Josh Tyler (7-4) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-25, 30-25)

Veta Arteaga (2-0) defeated Jackie Vandenburgh (0-2) via unanimous decision (29-27, 30-27, 29-28)

 

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

GET READY FOR SOME KICKBOXING WITH SMALL GLOVES!

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MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD TITLE BOUT BETWEEN RAFAEL CARVALHO AND MELVIN MANHOEF HEADLINES ‘BELLATOR 155’ TOMORROW NIGHT – LIVE AND FREE ON SPIKE

 

Complete Weigh-In Photos Here

 

BOISE, IDAHO. (May 19, 2016) –The official weigh-ins for “Bellator 155: Carvalho vs. Manhoef”took place this afternoon in front of a packed house at the Knitting Factory here in Boise, ID. All competitors are now ready for action tomorrow at CenturyLink Arena, with the event airing LIVE and FREE on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT.

 

Middleweight champion Rafael Carvalho (12-1) will defend his title against Dutch striking ace Melvin Manhoef (30-12-1) in the main event of a fantastic night of fights that also includes a co-main event between Pat Curran (21-7) and Georgi Karakhanyan (24-5-1), who square off in a featherweight scrap that has future title-shot implications written all over it. The main card also includes a women’s catchweight showdown between slick Dutch veteran Marloes Coenen (23-6) and Alexis Dufresne (5-2). Dufresne, who returns to action after a recent pregnancy and on short notice, missed the 146-pound weight limit, but the fight will proceed as planned.

 

“Bellator 155: Carvalho vs. Manhoef” will also feature a duo of heavyweight matchups with Joey Beltran (17-12) challenging Chase Gormley (12-5) and Dan Charles (20-3) looking to put an end to Augusto Sakai’s (9-0) unblemished record.

 

An undercard bout between Ricky Steele (5-0) and Eric Cronkhite (2-1) was cancelled when Cronkhite missed weight by nine pounds.

 

Very few tickets for the event remain, and are available at Bellator.com, the CenturyLink Arena Box Office or CenturyLinkArenaBoise.com.

Main Card: (Live on SPIKE – 9 p.m. ET/8:00 p.m. CT)

 

Bellator MMA Middleweight World Title Fight: Rafael Carvalho (184.3) vs. Melvin Manhoef (185)

 

Bellator MMA Featherweight Co-Main Event: Pat Curran (145.6) vs. Georgi Karakhanyan (145.1)

 

Bellator MMA Heavyweight Feature Bout: Dan Charles (242.2) vs. Augusto Sakai (262.5)

 

Bellator MMA Catchweight Feature Bout: Marloes Coenen (145.6) vs. Alexis Dufresne (150.7)

 

Bellator MMA Heavyweight Feature Bout: Joey Beltran (236.8) vs. Chase Gormley (264.5)

 

Preliminary Card: (Bellator.com – 7:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. CT)

 

Bellator MMA Bantamweight Preliminary Bout: Tyler Freeland (137.4) vs. Joe Hamilton (135.4)

Bellator MMA Lightweight Preliminary Bout: Dave Jansen (155.9) vs. Marcin Held (155.9)

Bellator MMA Flyweight Preliminary Bout: Veta Arteaga (127.1) vs. Jackie Vandenburgh (122.7)

Bellator MMA Featherweight Preliminary Bout: Hamilton Ash (145.8) vs. Vince Morales (144.9)

Bellator MMA Bantamweight Preliminary Bout: Brendon Raftery (134) vs. Casey Johnson (134.9)

Bellator MMA Lightweight Preliminary Bout: Scott Thometz (155.7) vs. Josh Tyler (155.7)

Bellator MMA Middleweight Preliminary Bout: Sean Powers (182.4) vs. Will Noland (185.6)

Bellator MMA Bantamweight Preliminary Bout: Jesse Brock (135.7) vs. Olly Bradstreet (135.7)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL HIGHLIGHTS & DIGITAL VIDEO RECAP FOR ‘BELLATOR 155’

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CARVALHO AND MANHOEF MEET WITH MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE ON THE LINE THIS FRIDAY AT ‘BELLATOR 155’ – LIVE AND FREE ON SPIKE

 

 

CONFERENCE CALL HIGHLIGHTS

Bellator President Scott Coker, along with “Bellator 155: Carvalho vs. Manhoef” main and co-main event fighters Rafael Carvalho (12-1), Melvin Manhoef (30-12-1), Pat Curran(21-7) and Georgi Karakhanyan (24-5-1) all joined this afternoon’s official media conference call to promote this Friday’s event.

 

Scott Coker

“We’re excited to be in Boise, fighting at the Century Link Arena. I think this is a fight town that has been hungry for a big MMA promotion and we’re proud to be the first to do it. We’ve got a great middleweight world title fight between Carvalho and Manhoef… Carvalho is coming off of a big win with a KO over Brandon Halsey and undoubtedly this fight is going to have a bunch of fireworks between both of these guys.”

 

On the fight between Curran and Karakhanyan…

“I definitely think that this fight has some title implications but we always like to see how the fight pans out…honestly if this is something that’s exciting and a barn burner and if this fight can stand on its own feet, it very well could be.”

 

On if a Bellator bonus structure is going to come to fruition in the future…

“It is something we’re working on but we’re just a little bit different, because we’re a premium TV model so it’s something that has been considered, but right now it’s something that is still just in dialogue.”

 

Rafael Carvalho

“I am excited and really think this could be historical. It’s going to be a lot of strikes and it’s going to be a kickboxing fight with MMA gloves.”

 

“Every fight you’ve got to show what you got. In this fight, it’s going to be no different [now that I’m a champ]. I’m going to show everything I’ve got and I am always looking forward to the next fight.

“People recognize me more now and I have gained more respect now as the champion…Winning the belt for the first time is one thing, but the real deal is when you defend the belt and keep the belt. That’s when you become the real champion.

 

On overcoming challenges of living in Rio…

“There are good people as well as bad but the only thing that is going to dictate your future is you and how hard you work for it. It doesn’t matter where you live or what kind of clothing you wear, if you put your mind into it and are willing to work hard for it.

 

Melvin Manhoef

“I look forward to making a kickboxing with small gloves. I am prepared for anything so it doesn’t matter what’s going to happen. I am looking forward to being there and doing what I do best, which is the striking, so for me it’s very nice that he wants to do the kickboxing in the cage with me.

 

Do you feel like people are counting you out heading into this fight?

“I don’t know what people are thinking but it all depends on what me and my team think and the fans who are supporting me think. I feel like the fight is still in me and I showed it at my last fight. I trained real hard for this fight and my goal is to show it again that you cannot count me out… You know my fight style; I do everything to knock people out so I am glad if [Carvalho] wants to make a kick boxing fight out of it.”

 

What would winning the Bellator title mean to you?

“It means a lot, with all of the hard work and a lot of people writing me off, but I think this is like a new era or new beginning for me and I could become a world champion. I think that being a fighter that’s been in the business so long, it has been an achievement already.”

 

Pat Curran

“I am really excited to step in there on Friday and put on a dominant performance. I have made a lot of changes in my life, in my camp and everything is falling into place right now and I’m excited to showcase that on Friday.”

 

Do the stakes of this fight change for you as they would for a title?

“I feel like every fight at this point in your career, especially in this division is do-or-die and if you win you’re going to get that much pull-through coming or having the chance to fight for the title again and I feel like over and over George and I have been that much closer to another title shot.”

 

Georgi Karakhanyan

“I can’t wait for Friday night. I am going out there with nothing to lose, just going 100 percent and fighting my fight and come out with a victory.”

 

On this being a potential title eliminator and going up against two-time champ Curran…

“I know everybody is talking about the title but to me I don’t think about that, right now I have a good opponent in front of me with Pat Curran, a former champion and I can’t ask for a better opponent than him. I am very excited, I cannot wait and I am ready to put on a great show and I’m for sure coming out with my hands right.”

 

On coming back from surgery and making adjustments…

“I treat everything the same, I got about five surgeries last year and the last surgery was just a meniscus tear but after that, Bellator took good care of me. They put me in a very good rehab place and I’ve started my training and feel 100 percent.”

 

DIGITAL RECAP

 

“Bellator 155: Carvalho vs. Manhoef” emanates from CenturyLink Arena in Boise, Idaho airs LIVE and FREE on SPIKE at 9e/8c. In preparation for the event, Bellator’s digital team has put together captivating new content, which you can view by clicking on the images below. Tune in to Bellator’s YouTube page for an inside look and more exclusive footage at what’s still to come.

 

 

Champions: Rafael Carvalho – The middleweight champion does NOT listen to the naysayers; he finds a way to win. Jimmy Smith breaks it down.

  

Foundations: Melvin Manhoef – Melvin Manhoef only knows one way to fight…All in! Either way somebody is going lights out. Jimmy Smith breaks it down.

 

 

Foundations: Marloes Coenen – Marloes Coenen  is a level above her competition, the MMA Pioneer show it every time she steps into the cage. Jimmy Smith explains.

  

What to Watch: Carvalho vs. Manhoef – This is for the Middleweight Championship! Rafael Carvalho and Melvin Manhoef will be a battle between masters of two opposing disciplines. Jimmy Smith and Manny Rodriguez break it all down.

 

 

What to Watch: Held vs. Jansen – Marcin Heldis a monster on the mat and Dave Jansen will have to find a way to negate that submission game. Jimmy Smith breaks it down.

  

What to Watch: Curran vs. Karakhanyan – There is a special energy in the Featherweight division. The competition is stiff and the winner will be in title contention while the loser may be put in the back of a long line of contenders. Jimmy Smith and Manny Rodriguez explain.

 

 

Rolling With Jimmy – The Bellator Featherweight takes a ride in Jimmy Smith’s 1969 Plymouth Barracuda. He shares how it feels to be in a stacked division and his desire to fight the best in the world.

 

 

FIGHT INFO:           A middleweight championship matchup between Rafael Carvalho (12-1) and Melvin Manhoef (30-12-1) will serve as the evening’s main event of “Bellator 155: Carvalho vs. Manhoef” at CenturyLink Arena in Boise, Idaho, Friday, May 20.

 

In addition, the main card features two of Bellator MMA’s top featherweights, with Pat “Paddy Mike” Curran (21-7) and Georgi “Insane” Karakhanyan (24-5-1) squaring off in the co-main event.Alexis “Sneaky Zebra” Dufresne (21-4) will make her promotional debut after agreeing to a late addition bout against Dutch submission specialist Marloes “Rumina” Coenen (23-6) in female featherweight action. There will also be multiple heavyweight bouts featured on the main card, with Dan Charles (10-3) taking on undefeated Augusto Sakai (9-0) and Joey Beltran (17-12) facing off against Chase Gormley (12-5).

 

Tickets for “Bellator 155: Carvalho vs. Manhoef” are going fast and can be purchased at the CenturyLink Arena Box Office or CenturyLinkArenaBoise.com, as well as Bellator.com. The event airs live and free on Spike at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, while the can’t-misspreliminary card airs live on Bellator.com and The Bellator Mobile App.