Tag Archives: Patricio Friere

Bellator, DAZN, mixed martial arts, MMA

OFFICIAL BELLATOR 228 FIGHT NIGHT RESULTS & PHOTOS

October 1, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Complete Event Photos Here

*Bellator 228* Main Card Results:

**Gegard Mousasi** (46-7-2) defeated **Lyoto Machida** (26-9) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 30-27)

**Patricio “Pitbull” Freire** (30-4) defeated **Juan Archuleta** (23-2) via unanimous decision (49-46, 50-45, 49-46)

**A.J. McKee** (15-0) defeated **Georgi Karakhanyan** (28-10-1, 1 NC) via KO (punches) at :08 of round one

**Darrion Caldwell** (14-3) defeated **Henry Corrales** (17-4) via unanimous decision (29-27, 30-27, 30-27)

**Daniel Weichel** (40-11) defeated **Saul Rogers** (13-3) via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 29-28)

**Preliminary Card:**

**Adrian Najera** (2-0) defeated **Jason Edwards** (2-1) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:28 of round three

**Benji Gomez** (9-12) defeated **Johnny Santa Maria** (3-5) via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

**Ozzy Diaz** (4-1) defeated **Andre Walker** (5-3) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 3:05 of round one

**Ian Butler** (7-6) defeated **Emilio Williams** (4-3) via TKO (punches) at :53 of round two

**AJ Agazarm** (2-1) defeated **Jonathan Quiroz** (3-4) via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

**Ava Knight** (1-0) defeated **Shannon Goughary** (4-4) via TKO (punch) at 1:46 of round three

**Antonio McKee** (30-6-2) defeated **William Sriyapai** (14-9) via TKO (punches) at 1:17 of round two

**Johnny Cisneros** (13-7) defeated **Mike Jasper** (13-6) via TKO (leg injury) at 4:28 of round two

**Leandro Higo** (19-5) defeated **Shawn Bunch** (9-4) via submission (guillotine choke) at 4:34 of round two

**Weber Almeida** (2-0) vs. **Castle Williams** (4-2) via TKO at 0:20 of round two

**Joshua Jones** (9-4) defeated **Dominic Clark** (14-9) via submission (guillotine choke) at 2:39 of round one

**James Barnes** (12-4) defeated **David Duran** (8-6) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 1:51 of round two

Please visit Bellator.com for more information.

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

February 21, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**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, Paramount Network

OFFICIAL BELLATOR 203: PITBULL VS. WEICHEL 2 RESULTS & PHOTOS

July 16, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

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Full Bellator 203 Photos // Credit: Bellator/Lucas Noonan

Bellator 203 Scorecards

Bellator 203 Official Results:

Patricio “Pitbull” (27-4) def. Daniel Weichel (39-10) via split decision (49-46, 48-47, 47-48)

*“Pitbull” retains Bellator featherweight world championship

Alessio Sakara (20-12, 2 NC) def. Jamie Sloane (8-5, 1 NC) via TKO (strikes) at 1:19 of round one

Andrey Koreshkov (21-2) def. Vaso Bakocevic (33-18-1) via KO at 1:06 of round one

Alen Amedovski (6-0) def. Will Fleury (4-1) via KO at 1:39 of round one

Maxim Radu (9-1) def. Simone La Preziosa (3-5) via TKO (strikes) at 4:50 of round one

Michele Martignoni (4-0) def. Simone D’Anna (4-2) via KO (head kick) at :06 seconds of round one

*Martignoni ties record for fastest KO in Bellator history

Bellator, kickboxing, mixed martial arts, MMA

ALL ROADS LEAD TO ROME; BELLATOR HOSTS FIRST EVENT IN THE ANCIENT CITY ON JULY 14

April 11, 2018 FNU47 Leave a comment

PATRICIO ‘PITBULL’ DEFENDS FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE AGAINST DANIEL WEICHEL, WHILE ITALY’S ALESSIO SAKARA RETURNS TO ACTION

IL CENTRALE LIVE ROMA – FORO ITALICO ALSO HOSTS BELLATOR KICKBOXING 10, WHERE TWO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS ARE ON THE LINE

LOS ANGELES – Bellator is primed for a summer return to Italy, this time in the country’s capital city of Rome at the Il Centrale Live Roma – Foro Italico on Saturday, July 14.

In a double main event, the card sees a rematch between Patricio “Pitbull” (26-4) and Daniel Weichel (39-9) for the featherweight title, as well as Italy’s most famous mixed martial artist, Alessio Sakara (19-12), taking on Jamie Sloane (8-3) at light heavyweight. Bellator Romewill air on Paramount Network and marks the promotion’s first trek to Rome, after hosting multiple events in both Torino and Florence.

Kickboxing will also be on display, as Giorgio Petrosyan (85-2-2) seeks to become the inaugural Bellator Kickboxing lightweight champ when he meets Chingiz Allazov (53-2), while Bellator Kickboxing’s featherweight champion, Kevin Ross (45-13), will defend his crown against Gabriel Varga (21-6).

Bellator Rome will be broadcast Saturday, July 14 free on Paramount Network at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, while details about Bellator Kickboxing 10, including additional matchups will be announced in the coming days. Tickets are on sale now at Bellator.com and Oktagon.it.

“From the beginning of Bellator’s international expansion, Italy has always played an integral role in our growth,” Bellator President Scott Coker said. “Following successful events in the gorgeous cities of both Florence and Torino, it only made sense to bring a card to Rome, the home of the Colosseum, a city that has seen warriors do battle since 80 AD.”

“Pitbull” reclaimed the 145-pound championship by defeating Daniel Straus via unanimous decision in April of last year, notching his 14^thBellator victory and becoming the winningest athlete in promotional history in the process. On July 14, the 30-year-old Natal, Brazil-native will bring into the Bellator cage his impressive record of 19 stoppages in 25 opportunities against a man he has defeated once already, coming from behind on the judges’ scorecards to knockout Daniel Weichel at Bellator 138.

Quietly running rampant through Bellator’s featherweight division during his nine-fight promotional tenure, Daniel Weichel’s only Bellator defeat took place at the hands of his upcoming Bellator Rome opponent. Since the loss, Weichel has climbed the ranks once again, besting notable fighters within the division such as Emmanuel Sanchez, Georgi Karakhanyan and John “Macapa” en route to his current number one contender status. Now, with an opportunity to right the loss, “Drake” will take the two-hour flight from Germany to Rome, with the hopes of winning championship gold on his mind.

The pride of Italy, Alessio Sakara is set to make his fourth appearance for Bellator, a promotion where he has already defeated both Joey Beltran and Brett Rogers via knockout, as well as challenged for the Bellator middleweight title. Prior to joining the Viacom-owned organization, “Legionarius” spent the majority of his career with UFC, where he built his reputation as a powerful knockout artist. With 33 fights as a professional, Sakara has collected 19 career victories, including 15 finishes and 10 first-round knockouts.

Sloane will be making his Bellator debut when he looks to play the role of spoiler in Sakara’s home country. With a winning record of 8-3, the BAMMA veteran has also made appearances at heavyweight and middleweight since beginning his professional career in 2014.

Referred to by his fans as “The Doctor,” Petrosyan is one man you do not want an appointment with. The top-ranked Armenian-Italian striking ace has put together an incredible 46-fight unbeaten streak, cultivating an extensive trophy case that includes multiple championship belts as well as “Kickboxer of the Year” accolades in both 2011 and 2012.

Currently in the midst of a 27-fight winning streak of his own, the 24-year-old Allazov has not suffered defeat since 2014, winning the K-1 super middleweight championship along the way. Hailing from Belarus, Allazov brings a Thai boxing style to the Bellator Kickboxing ring, a discipline that has helped him defeat fighters the likes of Bellator Kickboxing veteran Mustapha Haida, amongst others.

With four wins under the Bellator Kickboxing umbrella, Kevin Ross recently added the promotion’s inaugural featherweight belt to his already impressive list of accolades. Throughout his 58-fight career, Ross has previously held the WBC Muay-Thai USA welterweight, WBC Muay-Thai International super lightweight and Lion Fight super lightweight titles.

A two-time Glory featherweight champion, Gabriel Varga signed with Bellator in March of 2017, immediately making it clear that his sights were clearly set on competing against Ross. Italian fans may remember the 32-year-old Canadian from his Bellator Kickboxing 8 appearance, where he stopped Roberto Gheorghita in the second round of action.

Updated Bellator Rome Main Card:

Featherweight World Title Bout: Patricio “Pitbull” (26-4) vs. Daniel Weichel (39-9)

Light Heavyweight Feature Bout: Alessio Sakara (19-12, 2 NC) vs. Jamie Sloane (8-3)

Updated Bellator Kickboxing 10 Card:

Lightweight World Title Bout: Giorgio Petrosyan (85-2-2) vs. Chingiz Allazov (53-2)

Featherweight World Title Bout: Kevin Ross (45-13) vs. Gabriel Varga (21-6)

*Card subject to change

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

****

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

Bellator 178 Recap, Results and Fighter Quotes

April 22, 2017 FNU47 Leave a comment

MAIN CARD BOUTS:

Patricio ‘Pitbull’ (26-4) defeated Daniel Straus (24-7) at :37 of round two to capture the Bellator MMA Featherweight World Title.

Quote from Patricio Pitbull:

“It’s a dream come true to win back this title and this belt is for my son. It’s a gift for him,” Pitbull said. “I want him to be proud of his Dad and know that I overcame a lot to bring this title back home to Brazil.”

Photos: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/7m885x4vxkqjk95/AACtwo5tcijpbiWzuiy7l-vka?dl=0

Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (6-0) defeated Jessica Middleton (2-1) via submission (arm bar) at 2:15 of round one

Quote from Ilima-Lei Macfarlane:

“I went in there and did everything that I wanted to do. I did everything that I needed to do and as I said in the cage, I really wanted to make a statement that this is my division,” Macfarlane said. “If they’re going to crown a champion, I want to be number one up there.”

Photos: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/dj72akdy8jofbuo/AAA9qJSRDe8Y8do_Fz3q57VLa?dl=0

Saad Awad (20-9) defeated Ryan Quinn (13-7-1) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Quote from Saad Awad:

“It was a really tough fight and I knew he was a great wrestler. I saw a lot of that coming, he was in my face the whole time,” Awad said. “I thought i could take him out in that first round but he kept coming back. It was a tough fight, glad i came out on top.”

Photos: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/qmb29z2bb0ydiyk/AACI-wlNXqTMmGysDKOA_oAWa?dl=0

PRELIMINARY BOUTS:

Tyrell Fortune (3-0) defeated Branko Busick (0-1) via unanimous decision (29-27, 29-27, 29-27)

Quote from Tyrell Fortune:

“I thought it was great for me to go out and get three rounds in,” Fortune said following his Bellator 178 win. “I felt like I utilized my jab and my knees really well. Obviously I m still pretty too, no bumps and no cuts. I dominated the fight.”

Ed Ruth (3-0) defeated David Mundell (6-3) via technical knockout at 3:13 of round 2

Quote from Ed Ruth:

“I thought it was a good fight and a solid win for me. There were definitely some areas where I could’ve been faster and I could’ve been sharper,” Ruth said after moving to 3-0 in Bellator. “I felt like I missed a lot of openings, but I’ll go back to work and train some more and be ready to go again soon.”

Jordan Young (7-0) defeated Tim Caron (7-1) via submission (Brabo Choke) at 3:55 of round one

Quote from Jordan Young:

“That was light work, easy money. I respect him, but I am here to eat. I need somebody to call me tomorrow, next week, whenever, but I have to eat man,” Young said after remaining undefeated. “I go hard 24/7, so somebody call me because I always stay ready.”

Kas Xhema (1-0) defeated Nick Alley (1-1) via knockout at 3:19 of round one

Quote from Kas Xhema:

“The fight was great. I have the best team and the best coaches, I am very lucky guy,” Xhema said. “Over here at American Top Team Connecticut, I truly feel like we are the best team around.”

Additional Results:

Blair Tugman (10-6) defeated Tom English (6-8) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 4:54 of round three

Chris Foster (11-5) defeated Shane Manley (3-3) via split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

Billy Giovanetta (9-5) defeated Joshua Ricci (3-0)

Bellator, boxing, mixed martial arts, MMA, Rich Bergeron, Tom Padgett, Tony Penecale, UFC

FNU Combat Sports Show: UFC Fight Night and Bellator 177 Recap and upcoming MMA and Boxing Schedule

April 21, 2017 FNU47 Leave a comment

This week’s broadcast features recaps and previews of MMA and boxing events around the world. Tony, Tom and Rich also discuss politics and go off on a couple tangents here and there. We make it the whole episode this week without mentioning MacGregor vs. Mayweather even once.

We do break down some huge upcoming fights with Andre Berto taking on Shawn Porter in the main event on Showtime this week and a fourth MMA fight between Daniel Straus and Patricio “Pitbull” Friere at Bellator 178 on Friday night. We also have another UFC fight night to discuss and last week’s MMA results to go over.

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE ON THE LINE WHEN DANIEL STRAUS MEETS PATRICIO PITBULL FOR THE FOURTH TIME TOMORROW NIGHT ON SPIKE

April 21, 2017 FNU47 Leave a comment

Complete Weigh-In Photos Here

UNCASVILLE, CONN. (April 20, 2017) –The official weigh-ins for Bellator 178: Straus vs. Pitbull 4 took place this afternoon at the Mohegan Sun Arena. The competitors are now ready for action tomorrow, with the event airing LIVE and FREE on SPIKE at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT. See below for official weights and photos from tomorrow’s event.

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

Featherweight World Title Main Event: Daniel Straus (145) vs. Patricio “Pitbull” Freire (144)

Women’s Flyweight Co-Main Event:Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (126) vs. Jessica Middleton (126)

Catchweight Feature Bout: Saad Awad (164.5) vs. Ryan Quinn (164.5)

Featherweight Feature Bout: A.J. McKee (146) vs. Dominic Mazzotta (146)

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

Welterweight Preliminary Bout:Ed Ruth (185.5) vs. David Mundell (184.25)

Heavyweight Preliminary Bout: Tyrell Fortune (244.5) vs. Branko Busick (220)

Catchweight Preliminary Bout: Tim Caron (195) vs. Jordan Young (195)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout:Nick Alley (167) vs. Kastroit Xhema (165)

Featherweight Preliminary Bout:Don Shainis (149.5) vs. Max Kelleher (149.75)

Bantamweight Preliminary Bout:Regivaldo Carvalho (139.5) vs. Jason Perrin (140)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout:Kemran Lachinov (164.5) vs. Sam Watford (164)

Flyweight Preliminary Bout:John Lopez (125.5) vs. Remo Cardarelli (124)

Featherweight Preliminary Bout:Chris Foster (145) vs. Shane Manley (146)

Featherweight Preliminary Bout:Thomas English (146) vs. Blair Tugman (146)

Flyweight Preliminary Bout: Billy Giovanella (124.75) vs. Joshua Ricci (126)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

BENSON HENDERSON EARNS LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE SHOT FOLLOWING INJURY TO FOOT OF PATRICIO ‘PITBULL’

August 27, 2016 FNU47 Leave a comment

Complete Fight Night Photos Here / Event Highlights Here

ANAHEIM, Calif. (August 26, 2016) – Benson Henderson (24-6) earned his first victory since joining the Bellator MMA fray at Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif., Friday night. A faulty kick by Patricio “Pitbull” Freire (25-4) led to a leg injury, forcing him to forfeit the loss two minutes and 26 seconds into the second round.

After making the jump up to Bellator MMA’s 170-pound division, Henderson returned to where he was dominant in the UFC as a lightweight. After the win, Henderson received word of his next opponent; Bellator MMA’s current Lightweight Champion, Michael Chandler. The two are scheduled to tangle November 19 in the main event of the recently announced “Bellator MMA in San Jose.”

‘Fight of the Year Candidate Ends in Unanimous Decision Victory for Anderson

It took all three rounds to determine a winner in the evening’s co-main event, but in the end, Derek Anderson (14-2) emerged victorious with a unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 twice) win over Saad Awad (19-8). “The Barbaric” continues his recent trend of extending fights through the final round, as the win marks his third consecutive fight to go to the judges’ scorecards. The San Diego native has now recorded five wins under the direction of the Scott Coker-led promotion, including multiple victories over fellow lightweight Patricky “Pitbull” Freire, earning himself well-deserved respect among the division’s elite.

Karakhanyan’s “Insane” Knockout Puts Early end to Jenkins’ Night

Georgi Karakhanyan (25-6-1) needed only 53 seconds to finish Bubba Jenkins (11-3), as the Russian featherweight took care of “The Highlight Kid” for the second time in two years. “Insane” came out firing, landing multiple blows that sent Jenkins to the mat with an early knockout, earning his 11^th win in his last 14 fights. The loss is only the third of Jenkins’ young career and second of the first round variety, both of which Karakhanyan is now responsible for. The win is the fifth knockout of Karakhanyan’s career and is his third in the opening frame.

McKee Remains Undefeated With Impressive Guillotine Finish

In the opening contest at “Bellator 160: Henderson vs. Pitbull,” A.J. “Mercenary” McKee (5-0) remained unbeaten with a guillotine choke submission 32 seconds into the second round. By extending the fight past the opening frame, Walker was able to do what no other opponent has done, as each of McKee’s previous four wins had resulted in a first round finish. The win capped off an impressive night by Team Bodyshop, as McKee’s teammates Joey Davis (1-0) and Gabriel Green (4-0) also had their arms raised in the preliminary portion of the event. As one of Bellator MMA’s top young talents, the 21-year-old McKee was able to prove once again that he belongs among the division’s elite. After the fight, the Long Beach native called out Patricio “Pitbull,” saying “It’s nothing personal, I want (Daniel) Straus.”

Preliminary Card Results:

Jake Roberts (7-0) defeated Stephen Martinez (11-5) via TKO at 4:24 of round one

Chinzo Machida (4-2) defeated Mario Navarro (4-5) via TKO at 2:57 of round one

Jacob Rosales (4-2) defeated Mike Segura (4-4) via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 twice)

Andy Murad (13-2) defeated Jonny Cisneros (9-5) via unanimous decision (29-28)

Gabriel Green (4-0) defeated Alex Trinidad (1-2) via TKO at 2:01 of round two

Joey Davis (1-0) defeated Keith Cutrone (1-1) via unanimous decision (30-27)

Steve Ramirez (5-1) defeated Ron Henderson (4-3) via TKO at 2:24 of round one

David Duran (4-4) defeated Kyle Estrada (3-3) via split decision (29-28)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

PAIR OF INJURIES FORCE CHANGES TO MAIN CARD OF ‘BELLATOR 160: HENDERSON VS. PITBULL’

August 18, 2016 FNU47 Leave a comment

CODY WALKER STEPS UP ON SHORT NOTICE TO CHALLENGE UNDEFEATED A.J. MCKEE, WHILE GEORGI KARAKHANYAN-BUBBA JENKINS MOVED TO SPIKE-TELEVISED CARD

SANTA MONICA, CALIF (August 16, 2016) – Just nine days before the highly anticipated “Bellator 160: Henderson vs. Pitbull” event on August 26 at Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif., injuries sustained by main card fighters Henry Corrales and Lena Ovchynnikova have shaken things up a bit. Undefeated featherweight A.J. McKee (4-0) will now face Cody Walker (7-2), while Bubba Jenkins (11-2) and Georgi Karakhanyan (24-6-1) find themselves in a featherweight feature fight during the SPIKE-televised main card.

The fights join a main card that spotlights a super fight at 155-pounds between Benson Henderson (23-6) and Patricio “Pitbull” (25-3), as the two will duke it out for a shot at Michael Chandler’s championship belt. In addition, an explosive lightweight contest pitting Saad Awad (19-7) against Derek Anderson (13-2) will serve as the evening’s co-main event.

In preliminary action, welterweights Kevin “Baby Slice” Ferguson Jr. and Joey Davis will make their professional debuts, while Chinzo Machida (3-2) will compete for the first time under the Bellator MMA banner.

Tickets for the event start at $30 and can be purchased now on Ticketmaster and at Honda Center Box Office. Doors open at 4:45 p.m. PT local time and the first preliminary bout – which streams live on Bellator.com and The Bellator Mobile App — begins at 5:00 p.m. PT.

After beginning his career 7-1 as an amateur, the 21-year-old “Mercenary” has made a splash on the professional circuit, recording a perfect 4-0 mark through his first four bouts. McKee has fought under the Bellator MMA banner ever since he made his professional debut in 2015, finishing all of his contests in the opening frame, including three knockouts and a rear-naked choke submission. McKee’s most recent victory came at the expense of Italian Danilo Belluardo during the mixed martial arts portion of Bellator MMA’s first-ever event overseas, “Bellator 152: Freire vs. Souza.” The Long Beach, Calif. native will now take his flashy personality to the Honda Center, where he will have the chance to put his unique skill set on full display in front of his hometown fans.

Agreeing to take a professional mixed martial arts contest on short notice is no easy task, doing so against an undefeated fighter the caliber of McKee is even more daunting. But that’s exactly the scenario Walker finds himself in now ahead of next Friday’s event. A two-time competitor for Bellator, “The Crow” will look to move above .500 within the promotion when he enters the cage at Honda Center. The 28-year-old Texan has ended all seven of his professional victories via TKO or KO, including four in the first round.

A longtime veteran of Bellator MMA, Karakhanyan will look to get back on track after dropping two closely contested decision losses against Jenkins, who he handily defeated nearly two years ago via guillotine submission. Known to many mixed martial arts fans as “Insane,” the 31-year-old has finished 18 of his 24 wins as a professional, earning himself multiple titles in regional promotions along the way. Following multiple setbacks to his knee, the Russian fighter is finally healthy and now looks to climb the 145-pound ladder in a competitive division that he once sat atop as the No. 1 contender.

Just a few years ago, Bubba Jenkins was widely regarded as the top MMA prospect in all of the sport, though the title became tainted following the aforementioned loss to Karakhanyan at “Bellator 132.” The former NCAA National Champion wrestler with Arizona State University now has three consecutive wins under his belt, and is looking for redemption. Heading into his 11th fight under the Scot Coker-led promotion, the 28-year-old “Highlight Kid” looks to put on a standout performance in Bellator’s incredibly deep featherweight division. Tune in August 26 to see if the Corona, Calif., native can return the favor and finish Karakhanyan in front of his local supporters.

Complete “Bellator 160: Henderson vs. Pitbull” SPIKE-Televised Main Card:

Lightweight No. 1 Contender Main Event: Benson Henderson (23-6) vs. Patricio “Pitbull” Freire (25-3)

Lightweight Co-Main Event: Saad Awad (19-7) vs. Derek Anderson (13-2)

Featherweight Feature Bout: A.J. McKee (4-0) vs. Cody Walker (7-2)

Featherweight Feature Bout: Bubba Jenkins (11-2) vs. Georgi Karakhanyan (24-6-1)

Bellator.com-Streamed Preliminary Card:

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: Chinzo Machida (3-2) vs. Mario Navarro (4-4)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Joey Davis (Pro Debut) vs. Keith Cutrone (1-0)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Kevin Ferguson Jr. (Pro Debut) vs. Jon Tomasian (Pro Debut)

Lightweight Preliminary Bout: Gabriel Green (2-0) vs. Alex Trinidad (1-0)

Flyweight Preliminary Bout: Steve Ramirez (4-1) vs. Ron Henderson (4-2)

Flyweight Preliminary Bout: Kyle Estrada (3-2) vs. David Duran (3-4)

Lightweight Preliminary Bout: Mike Segura (4-3) vs. Jacob Rosales (3-2)

Welterweight Preliminary Bout: Jonny Cisneros (9-4) vs. Andy Murad (12-2)

Lightweight Preliminary Bout: Jake Roberts (6-0) vs. Stephen Martinez (11-4)

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Spike TV

CHINZO MACHIDA SET FOR BELLATOR MMA DEBUT DURING PRELIMINARY PORTION OF ‘BELLATOR 160: HENDERSON VS. PITBULL’

August 10, 2016 FNU47 Leave a comment

SANTA MONICA, CALIF (August 8, 2016) – Chinzo Machida (3-2) will make his promotional debut in featherweight preliminary action at “Bellator 160: Henderson vs. Pitbull” on August 26 at Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif., against Mario Navarro (4-4).

The fight joins a main card that includes a lightweight main event between fellow superstars Benson Henderson (23-6) and Patricio “Pitbull” (25-3). In addition, undefeated knockout artist A.J. McKee (4-0) clashes with former KOTC titlist Henry Corrales (12-3), while explosive lightweights Saad Awad(19-7) and Derek Anderson (13-2) go toe-to-toe in a matchup that you do not want to miss. Rounding out the televised action is a women’s flyweight encounter pitting Lena Ovchynnikova (11-4) against Jaimelene Nievera (4-1).

During the must-see preliminary portion of the event, Bubba Jenkins (11-2) will look for revenge against Georgi “Insane” Karakhanyan (24-6-1) in a featherweight rematch. In welterweight action, both Kevin “Baby Slice” Ferguson Jr. and Joey Davis will both suit up for the first time under the Bellator umbrella and make their professional debuts.

“Bellator 160: Henderson vs. Pitbull” takes place on August 26 inside Anaheim California’s Honda Center, and will air LIVE and FREE on SPIKE at 10 p.m. ET/9 p.m. CT.

Doors for the event open at 4:45 p.m. PT local time and the first preliminary bout – which streams live on Bellator.com and The Bellator Mobile App — begins at 5:00 p.m. PT. Tickets for the event start at just $30 and can be purchased now on Ticketmaster and at the Honda Center Box Office.

Machida, the elder brother of former light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida, has only fought five times in his career, but is currently riding a two-fight winning streak. Machida impressively finished Brian Wood via flying knee for Resurrection Fighting Alliance in 2014 and on August 26 Machida will be fighting an opponent who’s currently on the opposite end of the spectrum, and has lost his last two outings. If unfamiliar with Machida’s handy work, look no further than his aforementioned finish of Wood here.

Navarro, 33, has competed almost exclusively in his home state of California, with 7 of 8 fights taking place a short drive from his home in Huntington Beach. A two-fight veteran of Bellator MMA, “Handsome” has competed against Cleber Luciano and Brandon Bender under the Scott Coker-led promotion and will look to get back to his winning ways in Anaheim, Calif., on Aug. 26.

Complete “Bellator 160: Henderson vs. Pitbull” SPIKE-Televised Main Card:

Lightweight No. 1 Contender Main Event: Benson Henderson (23-6) vs. Patricio “Pitbull” Freire (25-3)

Lightweight Co-Main Event: Saad Awad (19-7) vs. Derek Anderson (13-2)

Flyweight Feature Bout: Lena Ovchynnikova (11-4) vs. Jaimelene Nievera (4-1)

Featherweight Feature Bout: A.J. McKee (4-0) vs. Henry Corrales (12-3)

Bellator.com-Streamed Preliminary Card:

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: Chinzo Machida (3-2) vs. Mario Navarro (4-4)

Featherweight Preliminary Bout: Bubba Jenkins (11-2) vs. Georgi Karakhanyan (24-6-1)