Douglas Lima: Bellator 192 Bout vs. Rory MacDonald One of the Best Welterweight Fights ‘Ever’
The welterweight championship bout between Douglas Lima and Rory MacDonald may no longer be the official main event at Bellator 192, but according to the reigning titlist, it nonetheless has significant historical implications.
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MacDonald has been perhaps the most celebrated free agent acquisition for Bellator during a period when the California-based promotion has made it is business to sign high-profile stars. The former UFC title challenger delivered in his debut, dominating and submitting Paul Daley with a rear-naked choke 1:45 into the second round at Bellator 179.
“His resume speaks for itself,” Lima said. “He’s fought great
competition. I can’t wait for it. It’s gonna be a great fight with
a big name. It’s the type of fight that I’ve been looking for.”
While the UFC certainly boasts its share of top-tier 170-pound talent, Lima believes the winner of his showdown with “The Red King” at the Forum in Inglewood, Calif., on Saturday night can lay claim to the title of sport’s top welterweight. After all, MacDonald already owns a victory over current UFC champion Tyron Woodley.
“I’d like to think so,” Lima said. “Rory’s been on top for a long time. He’s beat the guy that is supposed to be the No. 1 right now, he beat him before. He can be considered the No. 1. I’ll take that spot once I beat him [at Bellator 192].”
Lima has won eight of his last nine fights, including a five-round verdict over UFC export Lorenz Larkin at Madison Square Garden this past June. That high-profile victory has raised Lima’s profile, somewhat, though he’ll still be the lesser known commodity come fight night.
“Yeah, I feel like [recognition’s] getting better,” Lima said. “Bring out top guys with big names. I love to have a target on my back and being a champion. Let them all come at me. I love what Bellator is doing. Welterweight is a strong division and it feels good to sit on top of it.”
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