Bellator 301 ‘Amosov vs. Jackson’ Play-by-Play, Results & Round Scoring

Isao Kobayashi (145.2) vs. Yves Landu (145.4)

Round 1

We have reached what Bellator has so far claimed is just its “final event of the year.” The chatter about the future of the promotion has reached a fever pitch on fight night, but regardless of what comes next, 16 fights are on the docket in Chicago including several huge ones on the main card. We start off in the featherweight division, as France’s Landu (19-9, 4-1 BMMA) tries to make Kobayashi (27-5-2, 0-2 BMMA) feel unwelcome in his return to the promotion. Referee Mike Cimmarusti takes the first assignment of the night, and he watches a glove touch, as the fighters get down to it. Landu marches forward out of his corner, only to have his lead leg kicked hard. Landu counters with an overhand right, and he tumbles to the mat and recovers. Landu crowds his opponent, tossing out a kick or two to find his range. Kobayashi returns fire with a low kick and ducks a looping punch, and he misses on a second kick from the other leg. Landu whiffs on his own sweeping kick, and he settles down and thunks one on the lead knee of his opponent. Kobayashi half-heartedly reaches with one back and comes up short on a few punches, and Landu pushes off his forehead when Kobayashi tries to close the distance. Landu dips with a right and buzzes the hair with a left, leading Kobayashi to crash the pocket and tie him up in the clinch. Kobayashi keeps tight pressure and controls Landu, but does little else beyond squeezing. Landu stifles a possible body lock takedown, and when he gets turned around, he shuts down a trip from the fighter out of Tokyo. Kobayashi pops Landu in the chops with a shoulder, and he raises Landu up with two knees. The second knee gets Landu’s attention, as he sells out for a single-leg takedown. Kobayashi defends himself and stands back up, only for Landu to dump him down to his seat in a subsequent attempt. When Kobayashi powers back to his feet, Landu is quick to strip his legs out and put him back down. Once more, Kobayashi speedily stands back up, and Landu is not about to let him stay upright for long as he threatens and succeeds with another trip-up from behind. Kobayashi is similarly frantic to stand up, and he breaks the grip and spins around with a head kick that comes up short before the bell sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Landu
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Landu
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Landu

Round 2

The second round kicks off, and Cimmarusti takes an extra second after the bell resounds. Landu comes out like he is shot out of a cannon, firing off a few punches and a head kick. As Kobayashi takes the kick off his chin, Landu follows with a right and a stiff left hand that knocks him off his feet. A desperate Kobayashi gets to his knees and tackles Landu to the mat, trying to get his bearings after getting stung early. Kobayashi allows himself to recover while grinding on Landu, and Landu looks to scoot himself to the fence so he can wall-walk. Kobayashi stacks the Frenchman up and drives down solid punches, and he sways to the side to evade an upkick before lowering himself down into the guard. Kobayashi again positions himself to land additional strikes from above, and as he opens himself up with strikes, Landu works his way to his feet. The former King of Pancrase uses a body lock to deposit Landu back down to the floor seconds later, where the find themselves in the middle of the cage with no fence to use. Kobayashi shifts to half guard as he smothers his man, and Landu wraps his hands around to the back of Kobayashi’s head while on his back. Kobayashi follows Landu’s attempted scrambles and bucks, disallowing Landu from getting any headway to escape. The fighter from Japan grinds his elbow on Landu’s face, lifting it up ever so often to bust it into Landu’s cheek. Kobayashi maintains this top position to ride out the round.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kobayashi
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Kobayashi
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Kobayashi

Round 3

The last round opens up with an aggressive Landu, and he starts the round just like the last with a few punches and a head kick. Kobayashi sees this combination coming and counters with a right hand that stumbles Landu. The Frenchman shakes off the cobwebs, and he finds himself in the crosshairs of a single-leg entry from Kobayashi. Landu lifts his leg in the air to keep his balance, and he hops around and turns the corner to threaten with his own takedown. Kobayashi lets go and attempts to get off some knees when they are bent over, and they split off. Landu sticks out a jab, and he intercepts a leg kick with a short left hook and chains a front kick into it. Kobayashi pitches a leg kick and shoots for a single from a wide distance, and he shoves Landu up against the wall but does not ground him on the first effort. Landu latches onto a kimura from his back and falls to his seat, and he looks for a sweep with the armlock. Landu succeeds in turning Kobayashi over, and he keeps the grip of Kobayashi’s left arm so he can pull off the submission that could also come as a straight armlock. Landu cranks the arm to the side as he hops into side control, and he fights through a scramble as Kobayashi quickly turns to his knees. Landu still maintains a grip on Kobayashi’s left wrist as he puts himself into north-south position, and Kobayashi pushes his feet off the fence to give him some leverage or an explosive movement. This fails, as Landu remains singularly focused on the arm, which he torques into a nasty kimura. Kobayashi toughs out the nasty submission, and he allows his arm to go behind his back so he can flip over somehow. Kobayashi survives the armlock right to the final horn, with a moral victory that proves he does not believe in a no-win scenario even with that dire submission all-but locked up.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Landu (29-28 Landu)
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Landu (29-28 Landu)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Landu (29-28 Landu)

The Official Result

Yves Landu def. Isao Kobayashi via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Mike Hamel (155.8) vs. Tim Wilde (156)

Round 1

Moving right along, lightweights take the cage as “Magic Mike” Hamel (11-5, 4-2 BMMA) wants to dance and style on British opponent Wilde (16-4-1, 4-1-1 BMMA). The cage ranger for this collision will be referee Rob Madrigal. There is a respective glove touch, and Hamel instantly claims the center of the cage and paws away a head kick. Hamel ducks and dips to keep Wilde guessing, and he takes a jab on the jaw. Hamel responds with a leg kick, parries a jab, and fires off a front kick. Hamel wipes his feet off as Wilde crashes the pocket with a one-two. Hamel backs off and punches his way into a takedown, where he manages to circle around and take Wilde’s back. Hooking his own legs around Wilde’s, Hamel trips “The Experiment” and puts him on the mat. A furious scramble ensues, and Wild fights his way back to his feet and even gets off a knee on the break to show Hamel he is not playing. Wilde swings hard, and Hamel does the same, resulting in them crashing into each other. Wilde backs off and ducks down, and Hamel blasts him with an uppercut that splits the guard. Wilde takes it well, and Hamel swings a right hand over the top while swiping his left arm low to trip Wilde up. Wilde evades the takedown attempt, and he absorbs a side kick that pounds into his cup. Only a few seconds elapse until Wilde says he is good to go, and they reset as Wilde leaps forward with a left hook. Hamel attempts another takedown, and Wilde sees it coming and shuts it down while not needing to bend over. Wilde paws out with a one-two, and he allows a head kick to glide past his shoulder. Wilde doubles up on a jab, and Hamel scoops him up and sets him down, where the American lands in side control. Wilde turns to his side and nearly gets away, but Hamel drags him back down and wraps his right arm beneath Wilde’s neck. Hamel steps into half guard and thinks about locking down an arm-triangle choke, and the wild Wilde rolls to his back to attempt an armbar. The frenetic round comes to a close.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Wilde
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Wilde
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Hamel

Round 2

The second round begins with a flurry of kicks from the British fighter, who kicks low, high, and pushes out two front kicks. Hamel moves and springs into motion with a punch that leads to a takedown entry, and he jams Wilde up against the fence. Wilde pushes off thanks to a knee up the middle, and he fakes with a Superman punch and instead goes to the body with a right hook. Wilde flicks out a jab and hops away from a one-two, and he sees a swiping kick come and avoids it as well. Wilde delivers a stern kick to Hamel’s lead leg and ducks away from a home run right hand. Wilde wings a right hand that loops around the guard, and he follows it with a head kick that is barely blocked. The two throw hard strikes at the other, and their guards are high and protect each of them from the worst of the blows. Wilde attempts another head kick, and Hamel easily parries it but gets knocked back from a jab. Wilde snaps out another solid jab, and his footwork allows him to not eat much coming back his way. Hamel swipes and shoots for a takedown, and when Wilde gets his balance, Hamel powers through and lifts Wilde up to slam him down. The Brit leans himself against the fence, and he pushes his foot off it so he can possibly roll Hamel over. Hamel remains on top as Wilde scrambles, and he claims half guard and uses his shoulder pressure to pin Wilde down. “The Experiment” defends himself from any ground-and-pound, and the bell rings.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Wilde
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Wilde
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Wilde

Round 3

The lightweights share a double glove touch leading into Round 3, and Wilde strikes first after a lull with a heavy leg kick. When the Brit aims a head kick up high, Hamel avoids it and is backpedaling to not get struck with the sudden spinning wheel kick from Wilde. Wilde chambers a third kick and targets it at Hamel’s melon, and that too does not get through. “The Experiment” pushes the pace and keeps Hamel on his back foot, tattooing Hamel’s nose with a sharp and consistent jab. Wilde slips the counter right hand and watches the ball of Hamel’s foot soar by his face. Hamel sits down on a calf kick, forcing Wilde to stumble, but Wilde resets and spins with a back kick that pops into the lifted guard. Wilde chops down with another kick that lands with an audible thud, and Hamel changes stances from the blow and might be in trouble. Wilde lets loose with a head kick that crashes into Hamel’s face, and Hamel is rocked and keeping himself in the fight by leaning on the fence behind him. Hamel looks for wild looping counters, but Wilde is much more composed, measuring his shots and making them count. Wilde splits the guard with a vicious straight right hand, and Hamel collapses to the ground. The British fighter raises his arms in the air, but Madrigal wants a little more before stepping in. Wilde leaps down and drills Hamel in the side of the head with a pair of punches, and this is what Madrigal needed to be confident in his intervention. A jubilant Wilde springs away, snapping Hamel’s four-fight win streak and becoming the first fighter to knock out “Magic Mike” since 2017.

The Official Result

Tim Wilde def. Mike Hamel R3 2:47 via TKO (Punches)

Cody Law (145.4) vs. Jefferson Pontes (145.6)

Round 1

Featherweights are next on the docket of prelims, as company stalwart Law (7-2, 7-2 BMMA) makes his 10th walk to the Bellator cage. He faces unbeaten Brazilian debutant Pontes (6-0, 0-0 BMMA), and referee Blake Grice will observe the proceedings. Gloves are touched, and Pontes introduces himself with a front kick that Law swats out of the way. Pontes then sweeps the calf with a kick, and Law does not like particular strike. He fires one off of his own, and they clash shins when they meet in the middle. Law clubs Pontes’ calf a few times and sticks out a jab, and the kicks have drawn a slight limp out of his opponent just a minute and change into the fight. Law pressures forward and watches a head kick fly at him so he can block it, and he retaliates with another chopping kick. Law pops Pontes’ leg twice, and Pontes comes up short on two looping right hands. Law feeds the Brazilian a steady diet of calf kicks, forcing a stance switch and disrupting Pontes from his own haymakers. Law doubles up on jab and follows with a right hand, and his proximity allows Pontes to ding him in the side of the head with a right hook. Law gets off two more leg kicks before Pontes stomps at his knee, and Law is not about to stop abusing that lead wheel. Pontes loads up on his strikes, perhaps feeling the damage of his leg and wanting to stop the discomfort, and Law sees most of the shots coming. Pontes dips down after an overhand right to catch a leg kick, and his takedown attempt is shut down by the American wrestler. Law, pressing Pontes to the fence, knees him several times in the breadbasket. One knee sounds like it hits the cup, but Pontes does not complain, and instead pushes off to get back to kickboxing range. This immediately allows Law to pummel Pontes with several more small but effective calf kicks. Pontes paws out a front kick that misses the mark by a ways, and Law crowds him and slams his shin into Pontes’ lead leg. Pontes lifts his leg preemptively, and Law misses on a big right hand. The bell rings.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Law
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Law
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Law

Round 2

Pontes offers a touch of gloves to begin the round, and he is immediately more aggressive this frame than the last. His offense largely goes wide, as he swings hard and throws himself off-balance. Law remains calm and composed, chipping away with calf kicks when he sees an opening, and his head movement permits him to not get clipped. Pontes keeps firing, and Law takes advantage of this by countering with a double-leg takedown and depositing the undefeated fighter flat on his back. Law sits in the guard of his opponent, with Pontes clinging to him tightly. Pontes, with sheer power, sweeps Law and puts him on his back. Law does not settle in this position, and he proceeds to reverse the Brazilian and reclaim the top placement. Pontes turns to his side and latches onto a leglock, transitioning into a heel hook attempt that allows him to stand back to his feet without taking much damage. Pontes puts his foot back on the accelerating when upright, swinging overhand rights. One such strike glances off the nose and draws blood on Law’s nose, and Law responds with a right hand and hits a trip to put Pontes down again. Pontes sneaks his right leg over Law’s shoulder and slides his shin around to try to put it under Law’s chin, so he can set up a rare Gogoplata. Law thwarts the flexible Pontes from pulling off the unorthodox move, and he opens up with a number of right hands to get some space. Law lets loose with a few elbows, getting through the guard and banging into Pontes’ forehead. The second round comes to a close with one more elbow from the Pennsylvanian.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Law
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Law
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Law

Round 3

The two reach the third round, and Pontes once more is the initial aggressor. The Brazilian does not overswing with his strikes like Round 2, but the reduction in volume opens up opportunities for Law to pepper him with calf kicks and jabs. One particular calf kick from Law draws a limp and makes Pontes change stances, and Law capitalizes on this with a big overhand right that collides with Pontes’ temple and shocks him. Pontes backs off, and he unloads a huge right hand. Law times a perfect calf kick that takes Pontes off his feet, and the damage is massive for the Brazilian. Barely able to stand up, Pontes dives down after a single and flops to his back with a guard pull when Law does not go down. With Pontes on his back, Law kicks that same leg a few times, before letting Grice stand him up. Law just misses with a head kick, and Pontes throws hard but is not finding his target. Law boots him upside the head, and Pontes is tough but offering little else back. Pontes keeps his left leg raised up to protect it from kicks, and Law splits the guard with a jab to shake him up. Pontes comes up short with a head kick, and Law backs him to the wall and unloads with a vicious head kick. Pontes dives into an Imanari roll to go after some sort of low-percentage submission, and Law bowls him to his back and begins to batter the Brazilian with blistering blows. Pontes grips Law’s left wrist to stop the beating, and he keeps hold of it as tight he can so he can try to survive to the bell. Law wrenches his hands free and bombards Pontes with hellacious ground-and-pound until the fight reaches its conclusion, all while a cut splits open on the top of the likely formerly undefeated Pontes’ head.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-8 Law (30-26 Law)
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-8 Law (30-26 Law)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-8 Law (30-26 Law)

The Official Result

Cody Law def. Jefferson Pontes via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Islam Mamedov (159.4) vs. Killys Mota (160)

Round 1

This next contest takes place at a pre-planned catchweight of 160 pounds, as Dagestan’s own Mamedov (22-3-1, 2-2 BMMA) comes to blows with American Top Team product Mota (15-3, 4-2 BMMA). Referee Jason Herzog will take care of the particulars over the next three rounds or less. The fighters gladly clap their hands together before engaging. They meet in the middle, and Mota gives ground first by hopping back to dodge a low kick. Mota lunges forward with a pair of punches that go wide, and he settles down to land a calf kick. Mota lands another kick, and he gets met with a jab to the body on his way forward. Mota pressures them up to the fence, and he looks to throw the Russian down only to get countered well. Mota climbs back up and throws Mamedov to his knees, and Mamedov gets away with a fence grab to not go all the way down. Mota squeezes his man against the cage and softens him up with body shots, but he lets him go to find another angle in. Mamedov counters an advancing Mota with a sharp uppercut, but Mota’s forward momentum allows him to drive through and push Mamedov back. Mota cannot hold him there, but he backs off and lands a left to the body when darting back in. Mamedov is out of range for his own right hook, but he is also able to dodge two punches from the Brazilian. Mamedov connects with an uppercut into a left hook, and Mota manages to block the head kick that follows. Mamedov shoots in for a single, and Mota turns him around and stops it from succeeding. The two tie up against the wire, and Mota punches his opponent in the thigh repeatedly. Mamedov responds with knees to the body, and Mota continues punching the same spot until Mamedov muscles him around. Mota smacks Mamedov several more times from up close until the bell awkwardly clangs.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Mamedov
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Mamedov
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Mamedov

Round 2

The fighters again come to the center of the cage to engage, and Mota rings Mamedov’s bell out of the gate with a heavy right hand. Mamedov shakes it out and tosses out a head kick, and he strafes to the side to evade a bull-rushing Mota. Mamedov puts a one-two on the chin and shoots for a single, and he lifts Mota’s leg in the air and puts him down. Mota defends with a butterfly guard, until Mamedov hops over and moves into a partial half guard and then shifts to the side. Mota turns to his side in an effort to work his way up, and he gives his back up to stand. Mamedov follows him, but Mota is able to wall-walk briefly. Mamedov drags him back down, where this brief exchange continues as Mota gets up and is brought down once more. Mota stands and shoots for his own double with Mamedov pinned against the cage wall, and Mamedov stuffs it and clasps his hands around Mota’s waist. The two jockey for position and grind with every bit of their energy on the other, turning around and peppering one another with body shots. Mamedov sells out for a trip and cannot quite get Mota down, and after more clinch control, Mamedov gets away and dodges a spinning back fist on the break. Mota pushes past a right hand to jam Mamedov to the fence, and the close round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Mamedov
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Mamedov
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Mamedov

Round 3

Reaching Round 3, the two stand toe-to-toe and trade one single punch. Mota gets backed off with a front kick to the body, and Mamedov sees the success of the strike and pins two more on the waist before Mota races at him with his fists flying. Mamedov slides away while Mota crowds him, and they reset as Mamedov scores a low kick. Mota again hits nothing but air as he rushes at his opponent with punches. When Mamedov dodges to the side again, Mota follows this time with a spinning back fist, but Mamedov has his guard up. Mota chips at the leg with a kick, and Mamedov does the same. Mota attacks the lead leg again with one strike, until he pushes into the clinch. Mamedov uses the Brazilian’s momentum against him, and he slams Mota to the mat with a beautiful throw. Mamedov looks to get some ground-and-pound going, until Mota turns to his side and hunts for some kind of a sweep. Mamedov moves himself to take side control, and Mota again turns so he can present his back and get to his knees. Mamedov keeps wrist control to hold Mota down, even as Mota moves to his seat in an effort to stand. The power of the Dagestani fighter allows him to push Mota to his back, where he sits in Mota’s guard and lands ground strikes. Mamedov continues to grind in this position, with light but scoring shots any time he can find an opening. Mota shrugs and starts complaining that Herzog should stand them up, but Mamedov is doing enough until the long, slow drag of a fight ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Mamedov (30-27 Mamedov)
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Mamedov (30-27 Mamedov)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Mamedov (30-27 Mamedov)

The Official Result

Islam Mamedov def. Killys Mota via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Ramazan Kuramagomedov (171) vs. Randall Wallace (170.4)

Round 1

Bellator 301 rolls on with a welterweight clash featuring an undefeated fighter in Kuramagomedov (11-0, 1-0 BMMA) that is an overwhelming -2000 favorite or above in this match. Should Wallace (20-9-1, 0-0 BMMA) get his hand raised instead, the underdog ranging from +900 to +1200 would easily pick up the biggest betting upset this year in MMA. Mike Cimmarusti will serve as the referee for the match that bettors believe is a foregone conclusion. The fighters touch ‘em up, and Kuramagomedov is the initial aggressor as he reaches out with a front kick and connects with a low kick. Wallace, his mullet waving majestically behind him, gets pushed out of the way by the man from Dagestan. Kuramagomedov sneaks in a right hand that surprises “Braveheart,” but Wallace gathers himself and throws back. Kuramagomedov kicks low and trips on Wallace, and he connects with a stern right hand to follow. Wallace fakes a front kick to get a bit of space, and he leans back to avoid a head kick before digging a right to the body. Kuramagomedov reaches his target with a standing hook kick, and he strafes as Wallace goes whizzing by with his own counter offense. Wallace lands a left, and Kuramagomedov does the same. Kuramagomedov connects with a jumping switch kick, and he closes the distance and secures a double-leg takedown to put the Californian on the floor. Kuramagomedov allows him to move to his knees so he can take the back, but Wallace muscles his way up in part due to a fence grab. Kuramagomedov drills Wallace with a left hand and gets a head kick through, and he keeps Wallace on his back leg with a one-two. Kuramagomedov strings two leg kicks into a left hand, and he times a perfect double to completely befuddle Wallace. Kuramagomedov smothers his man from on top, with sporadic ground-and-pound as he picks his shots and stacks Wallace up. Wallace uses his butterfly guard to slow the assault, but Kuramagomedov will not give him an inch to breathe as he wades into three-quarter mount. Kuramagomedov hunts for an arm-triangle choke, only to be stifled thanks to Wallace kicking off the fence. The undefeated fighter lays into Wallace with a number of left hands, doing so until the bell rings.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kuramagomedov
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Kuramagomedov
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Kuramagomedov

Round 2

The fists are bumped to open Round 2, and Kuramagomedov reintroduces himself with a front-leg kick to the face. Wallace surges forward, throwing hands, and he scores a leg kick and a few punches. Kuramagomedov counters him powerfully, with a flying knee that leads to four lightning-quick punches. Kuramagomedov changes levels and scoops Wallace off his feet, and he lands in the half guard so he can rattle Wallace with a number of elbows. Kuramagomedov deftly traps Wallace’s right arm behind his back, which opens Kuramagomedov up to batter his foe with left hands. The punches from the Russian open a cut on the man with the mullet, and he clubs Wallace with a long stream of punches and elbows. Wallace hangs in there tough and kicks off the hips to reclaim his guard momentarily, only for Kuramagomedov to step right over again. Kuramagomedov passes guard, and Wallace times this so he can turn to his knees. Kuramagomedov climbs onto the back and starts hunting for a rear-naked choke, getting a hook in. Wallace falls to his back, and Kuramagomedov thanks him for this by completing the choke grip. Wallace taps out in seconds, knowing his goose is cooked. This was one-way traffic for the unbeaten Russian, who cruises to a second-round submission victory.

The Official Result

Ramazan Kuramagomedov def. Randall Wallace R2 3:49 via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) 

Matheus Mattos (135.2) vs. Richard Palencia (136)

Round 1

A potential bantamweight brawl draws the attention of the fans inside of the Wintrust Arena in Chicago, when Mattos (13-2-1, 1-1 BMMA) of the renowned Pitbull Brothers camp toes the line with MMA Lab export Palencia (10-1, 0-1 BMMA). Referee Rob Madrigal will be the third in the cage, and the fighters kick things off with a clap of hands. Palencia bounces around early, coming in and out and not letting a sweeping low kick get through. A stalemate ensues for most of the first minute, as they trade body shots. Palencia kicks the leg and misses with an overhand right. Mattos splits the guard with a jab, and he sits down with a thudding low kick. Both men utilize their jab, and Palencia misses the mark with a one-two. Mattos counters with a right as Palencia charges him, and the two tie up in the clinch. They split apart, and are jittery and tentative to engage with much more than single strikes. Mattos swings hard with big right hands that do not land flush, while mixing in the occasional jab. Palencia also comes up hitting air with his own power strikes, as the accuracy rate thus far is quite low. Mattos sits down with a short right hand as Palencia lashes out, but it is one-and-done as Palencia skirts away. Tit-for-tat strikes are exchanged by the fighters, and Mattos opens up with a right hand to force Palencia to change levels. Mattos defends by putting his back to the wall, and he pushes on the back of the MMA Lab fighter’s head. As Palencia fully commits to the double, Mattos elbows him on the side of the head. Mattos scrambles and pops up when hitting a knee, and he continues scrambling right until the bell sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Mattos
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Mattos
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Mattos

Round 2

The fighters touch gloves before getting after it, and Mattos moves to the center of the cage initially. They hand-fight until Mattos looses a head kick, and it flies past Palencia’s head. The Brazilian sits down on a solid body kick, and he mixes things up further by kicking low. Palencia jabs his way in and springs to the side, and he comes up short on a left hook. Mattos steps in to land a right hand on the temple, and he chains four punches together including a solid left to the body. Palencia gathers himself and flicks out a jab, and he blocks a head kick but cannot stop the low kick that follows. Palencia grimaces and hops away from a high kick, and he absorbs a front kick down the middle. Palencia leaps forward and hammers Mattos with a straight right hand that sends the Brazilian clattering to the mat. Mattos is shocked, and he springs back to his feet after eating a few shots to secure a takedown and take top position in the blink of an eye. A few ground strikes from Mattos open a cut on the corner of Palencia’s right eye, and Mattos tries to target them but instead is forced to fight off a scrambling Palencia. Palencia climbs back to his feet using the wall beside him, and this is the worst decision he can make, as he gives up his back. The Brazilian bounds onto the back of his opponent, getting both hooks in and snatching up the rear-naked choke in a hurry. With Palencia leaned up against the cage, he cannot break the leverage, and he has no choice but to tap out while standing. Mattos recognizes the surrender and releases the grip, and he celebrates by jumping on the shoulders of a teammate and getting paraded around the cage.

The Official Result

Matheus Mattos def. Richard Palencia R2 3:20 via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)

Keri Melendez (126.6: Missed Weight) vs. Sabriye Sengul (125.6)

Round 1

A bit of bad blood has crept into this fight originally scheduled at flyweight. Melendez (5-0, 5-0 BMMA) missed weight by a bit over half a pound, and her staredown with Turkish kickboxer Sengul (3-3, 0-1 BMMA) was anything but cordial. Luckily for these two ladies, they are able to settle their differences in the next 15 minutes or less. Referee Blake Grice will be there to keep things on the up-and-up, and he is not at all surprised when they do not touch gloves. Sengul, with bad intentions in her eyes, marches Melendez down to start the fight. It is Melendez who strikes first, with a series of punches and kicks, the last of which is caught by the woman from Turkey. Melendez strides forward with a one-two, and she parries a similar combo that comes back at her. Melendez keeps her foot on the gas, absorbing a jab and trading hands with her opponent. Melendez kicks low and resets, and she tags her foe with a left hand. Melendez pushes out a front kick and evades the counters that fly her way, and she measures a left hook when Sengul advances. Sengul swings hard and walks into a punch in the face, and she eats several knees square in the midsection. Melendez continues to work the body with knees, and Sengul grimaces as a cut develops under her right eye from the elbows that also come from the Skrap Pack fighter. Melendez tees off with knees and elbows from up close in the clinch, and she even mixes in a foot stomp for good measure. Melendez’ husband, Gilbert Melendez, calls for her to aim various strikes, and she follows every one of his instructions to the letter as she beats on the Turkish woman. Melendez looks to trip Sengul up, and when that fails, she knees Sengul several more times. Some large swelling as developed on Sengul’s forehead, as the damage begins to mount fast. Sengul succeeds in punching her way out of the clinch, landing a few shots and making Melendez retreat. Sengul reaches with a few big right hands, and she overswings on one that makes her crash into the wall. Melendez sees some of the heavy shots coming, and she flicks out a sharp jab that stops Sengul from tagging her. Sengul comes up short on a head kick, and she swings hard but is not finding the target often. The round ends with a quick left hook from Melendez.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Melendez
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Melendez
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Melendez

Round 2

Sengul’s face is busted going into the second round, with serious swelling and a slightly crooked nose to boot. Nevertheless, she is tough and ready to start next five-minute stretch, and she comes out swinging. Melendez times the swinging Sengul with left hooks, and her jab mixes things up along with a few leg kicks. Sengul paws out with a body kick, and Melendez chases her down with punches and a kick. Melendez lets Sengul swing past her, with left hooks that catch Sengul off-guard. Sengul rushes at her opponent, fists flying, and she pushes Melendez to the fence and grabs hold of the cage with both hands to keep her there. Grice admonishes Sengul several times due to these fence grabs, but Sengul holds the position. Melendez threatens with a guillotine choke to pull herself off of the cage, and she sets it up and drops to her back. The submission is completely locked up when she hits the canvas, and the Turkish fighter has no way out of the choke. Sengul taps out, and Melendez successfully returns to the cage after a three-year absence with a stoppage win.

The Official Result

Keri Melendez def. Sabriye Sengul R2 2:06 via Submission (Guillotine Choke)

Justin Gonzales (145.4) vs. Timur Khizriev (146)

Round 1

The prelims keep on rolling, as featherweights Khizriev (13-0, 2-0 BMMA) and Gonzales (14-2, 3-2 BMMA) are prepared to lock horns. It could be a wild one, and referee Mike Cimmarusti will be taking charge of the cage. The fighters do not share a glove touch, and instead Khizriev is the one to move to center stage and strike. Khizriev lands a right hand, and Gonzales circles to the side and returns fire. Khizriev sits down on a kick, and Gonzales mirrors him with his own low kick. Gonzales swings for the bleachers, and Khizriev sways and moves to avoids them all and plants the ball of his foot on Gonzales’ chest. A takedown shot from Khizriev is stuffed as the two twirl around, and Gonzales resets and dodges an overhand right. Khizriev chips at the lead leg with a kick, and Gonzales crashes forward with a big right hand. Khizriev meets him with a heavy right hook, and his forward momentum allows him to bowl “J-Train” over and put him on his back. Gonzales is quick to set up butterfly guard so he can kick Khizriev off of him, but the Dagestan native is tightly presses to him as he moves to half guard. Khizriev prefers to maintain position over doing damage or hunting for submissions, as he slowly softens Gonzales up. Gonzales kicks him off as he absorbs a right hand, and Khizriev clubs him when leaping back down. The American sits up and gets belted with a left hand as Khizriev pounces, and Gonzales is dragged back down flat to the floor. Gonzales muscles his way to his knees and wall-walks, and Khizriev thumps him in the back of the thigh before hurling him back down to the floor. Gonzales again climbs back up, but Khizriev secures another mat return. Khizriev gets off a few punches before Gonzales gets to his feet. Gonzales turns him around, and right before the bell, knees “Imam” in the face.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Khizriev
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Khizriev
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Khizriev

Round 2

Khizriev is right in the middle of the cage to start off the round, and his jab is out in front of him even if Gonzales is well out of range. Khizriev lands a calf kick, and Gonzales comes up short with his own attempt. The Russian jackhammers Gonzales in the face with a front kick, and Gonzales’ balance nearly betrays him. Gonzales shakes out the cobwebs, and he winds up with a huge overhand right. Khizriev times this perfectly to land a double, but Gonzales does not stay grounded for more than a second before popping back up. Khizriev backs off and measures him with a low kick, and Gonzales overswings with power strikes that pound into the guard or fly past Khizriev’s hair. Gonzales plants a calf kick hard but is met with a double, and he is dumped to his back. Gonzales quickly works his way back up and kicks Khizriev in the side to thank him for the takedown. Khizriev telegraphs a takedown attempt, and Gonzales meets him with a kick to the ribs and buzzes Khizriev’s dome with a second one. Gonzales looks for his own takedown, only to get stonewalled by the Russian. Khizriev drives a kick to the body, and Gonzales catches it but cannot take advantage of the leg in the air to take his foe down. Gonzales tries to lure his foe into a brawl, and he takes one to land one. Khizriev reaches out with right hands, and he does not put himself out of place to stop the takedown that comes his direction. When he stops a takedown effort, Gonzales kicks him in the gut. Khizriev clips Gonzales with a few punches, and he spins with a kick to the body as well. Gonzales comes out swinging, and Khizriev drives him back with a few punches and a sweeping low kick. Gonzales splits the guard with a jab and is backed away by the counter, and he has his lead leg kicked twice from either side before the round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Khizriev
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Khizriev
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Khizriev

Round 3

The third round opens up, and both featherweights are aggressive as they hurl kicks at one another. Khizriev is the one to push forward, where he allows Gonzales’ strikes to glance off of him and counter. Gonzales connects with a decent front kick, and they clash together with punches as Khizriev clinches him up. Gonzales pushes him away and looks for a left hook on the break. Khizriev kicks the body, and Gonzales catches it and tries to take him down. Like Guile from “Street Fighter,” Khizriev backflips with his other leg outstretched. The strike sometimes known as the “Flash Kick” just grazes Gonzales’ face—if that had put Gonzales away, knockout of the year would have been completely and utterly sewn up—and Khizriev hits his knees as Gonzales shoots for a takedown. Khizriev sneaks around behind his man to counter the takedown, and he gets up to threaten with his own attempt. Driving Gonzales across the cage, Khizriev pressures his man and gets him down. “J-Train” chugs his way back upright, and he looks for any offense he can muster. Khizriev jabs and picks at his foe from a safe range, and he takes a kick on the side so he can reach out with a right hand and commit to a leg kick. Gonzales ducks down to throw a head kick, and Khizriev blocks it and counters with two punches over the top. Gonzales shoots for a single, and the Dagestan native stuffs it and has his toes stomped for his defensive effort. Khizriev incredibly flips Gonzales all the way over to prove a point, and he succeeds in setting Gonzales down with emphasis. Khizriev rains down punches from above until the fight concludes.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Khizriev (30-27 Khizriev)
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Khizriev (30-27 Khizriev)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Khizriev (30-27 Khizriev)

The Official Result

Timur Khizriev def. Justin Gonzales via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Sumiko Inaba (125.2) vs. Denise Kielholtz (124)

Round 1

Rob Madrigal is the third man inside the Bellator MMA cage. Both women open up the fight by exchanging kicks. Inaba finding success with her jab and following up with straight rights. Kielholtz is getting tagged but not rocked or taking substantial damage. Nice low kick by Kielholtz, who is finding success at range. Inaba closes the distance with the jab but can't follow it up with anything effective. Nice leg kick by Kielholtz. Inaba is caught off balance after whiffing on a high kick. Good 1-2 by Inaba, but it is countered by Kielholtz. A left hook scores for Kielholtz. A right hand lands cleanly for Inaba. A close round and Kielholtz lands a left hook as they exchange. The close round ends with Inaba threatening a takedown before going back to fighting on the feet.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Kielholtz
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Kielholtz
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Kielholtz

Round 2

Kielholtz continues scoring with low kicks. Inaba misses a high kick. Neither woman is able to find much punching success. Lots of punches bouncing off gloves and not quite hitting their mark. Kielholtz lands a sharp jab of her own. Inaba is controlling the center but can't find her rhythm. Nice leg kick from Inaba. Kielholtz misses an overhand right. Inaba walks into a left hook. Body kick scores for Kielholtz. It's a much clearer round for Kielholtz so far, as Inaba is not finding any momentum. Inaba is having trouble getting inside and keeps eating leg kicks. Inaba gets a single-leg takedown, but Kielholtz gets back up and starts unloading against the cage. They separate with a minute left. Kielholtz throws a front kick that threatens but doesn't land. A left hook scores for Kielholtz and she lands a leg kick to end the round.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Kielholtz
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Kielholtz
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Kielholtz

Round 3

Inaba comes out more aggressive and has some success with the jab. Kielholtz punishes with low kicks. Inaba walks into a hook but isn't phased. Kielholtz is countering well. Inaba isn't finding her way inside well. A body kick lands for Kielholtz. The right hook lands for Kielholtz. Inaba charges forward but isn't cutting off the cage. Inaba has swelling under her right eye. Two minutes left. Kielholtz lands a nice right hand, but Inaba continues coming forward. A nice leg kick from Kielholtz, although Inaba uses it to get a takedown. Kielholtz uses the cage to walk her way back to her feet. They separate. Kielholtz defending well against the charges of Inaba, which show aggression but aren't landing in any meaningful manner. 30 seconds left. Inaba goes for another takedown but clinches against the cage at the end. The fight ends with Kielholtz landing knees to the body.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Kielholtz (30-27 Kielholtz)
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Kielholtz (30-27 Kielholtz)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Kielholtz (30-27 Kielholtz)

The Official Result

Denise Kielholtz def. Sumiko Inaba via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27); R3, 5:00.

Pieter Buist (155.6) vs. Archie Colgan (155.4)

Round 1

Jason Herzog is the referee. Buist is a much taller fighter and lands a leg kick at range before missing when he goes high. Colgan is looking to get on the inside. Buist misses a kick, and Colgan secures a takedown, landing into half guard. Buist is defending well but is unable to get back up. The fight has slowed down to a crawl, with Colgan landing occasional punches but mostly fighting to keep position. Colgan lands a few elbows. One minute left. Colgan not looking to advance position any. Dreadfully boring fight but a clear round for Colgan.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Colgan
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Colgan
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Colgan

Round 2

Buist is threatening with kicks at a distance but not committing in fear of a takedown. Colgan is swinging wildly to close distance. Buist throws a head kick that is blocked. Nice body kicks by Buist. Colgan isn't cutting off the cage, but he is able to run down Buist and secure a takedown anyway. Colgan is in half-guard and starts landing elbows. Short right hands landing for Colgan. Buist has no real defense here in terms of getting back to his feet. 90 seconds left. Colgan gets to mount. Buist gives up his back before trying to escape. Colgan starts landing knees after securing his opponent. A better round for Colgan.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Colgan
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Colgan
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Colgan

Round 3

The third round opens with Buist hesitant to throw. Colgan is faking that he's going to shoot but isn't following it up with punches. Colgan eventually shoots and secures a grip on Buist's leg. Buist is defending against the cage. Colgan gives up and throws a knee in the clinch before they separate. Three minutes left. Buist tries to step in with a knee. Colgan goes for a double-leg takedown and grabs the back of his opponent. Colgan is kneeing Buist, who has a knee down. Buist gets back to his feet and circles away. 90 seconds left. Fans are booing as both men circle without throwing. Buist half-heartedly throws an overhand right that misses. A kick is blocked by Colgan. 30 seconds left. The fight ends after Colgan lands a counter right hand.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 (30-27 Colgan)
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Colgan (30-27 Colgan)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 (30-27 Colgan)

The Official Result

Archie Colgan def. Pieter Buist via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27); R3, 5:00.

Patricky Freire (154.4) vs. Alexandr Shabliy (155)

Round 1

Reffing the first main card fight is Jason Herzog. Both men are hesitant to start. Freire lands a leg kick. Shabliy defends a rush, but a finger hits Freire in the eye. The fight is paused. Freire is okay to continue, and the fight restarts. A cut opens below the left eye of "Pitbull." Shabliy is able to land at range. Nice left hook by Shabliy. Push kick lands and is followed up by a leg kick by Shabliy. The kicks of Shabliy are really the differentiator so far. Freire goes for a big left hook that misses. High kick is blocked by "Pitbull." A clear first round for Shabliy, who is having all the striking success.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy

Round 2

Shabliy comes out and immediately starts throwing kicks to the legs and body. Freire throws his own leg kick and is countered by a straight right hand. "Pitbull" eats a push kick and blocks a spinning back fist. Both men fighting at range. Shabliy avoids a spinning kick. Freire eats a jab. Three minutes left. Very tempered pace so far. "Pitbull" eats more body kicks. Shabliy catches Freire overextending and catches his foe with a hard punch. An uppercut misses for Shabliy. Two minutes left. Spinning kick misses for Shabliy. Neither connecting a ton here. Nice 1-2 by Shabliy. Freire eats a right hook. 60 seconds left. Shabliy lands a body kick. Freire dodges a back fist. A 1-2 from Shabliy hurts his opponent as the round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy

Round 3

Shabliy splits the guard with a straight right hand. "Pitbull" still struggling with the kicks of his opponent. Shabliy is just too fast and able to kick without any fear of a counter. Nice jab to the body for Shabliy. Freire staying on the outside, where he's unable to do much offensively. "Pitbull" spends a lot of money charging forward and throwing but isn't able to land. The rest of the round sees "Pitbull" unable to find any momentum as Shabliy continues to outwork his opponent.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy

Round 4

Shabliy opens the fourth composed. "Pitbull" charges forward with hooks and gets tagged by a straight right hand. A nice left hook lands for Shabliy. The face of Freire is really showing damage now. The pace has slowed down with Shabliy occasionally throwing 1-2s. "Pitbull" is hurt and retreating. Shabliy misses with a right hook and isn't overly aggressive. Shabliy lands several combinations and follows it with a knee. "Pitbull" is showing a lot of damage and has a big cut. Freire survives the round and continues to throwback, but he's outclassed thus far.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy

Round 5

Freire needs a finish. Shabliy is still in full control but isn't putting on much pressure. "Pitbull" charges and gets clipped by a right hand. Nice leg kick for Shabliy. Freire blocks a high kick. Less than three minutes left. Shabliy landing singular shots but not throwing combinations. Shabliy controls the center of the cage. Freire lands a jab, which is clearly much too little, far too late. "Pitbull" misses with a desperate back fist. The fight ends with Shabliy landing a spinning back kick.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy (50-45 Shabliy)
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy (50-45 Shabliy)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Shabliy (50-45 Shabliy)

The Official Result

Alexandr Shabliy def. Patricky Freire via Unanimous Decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45); R5, 5:00.

A.J. McKee (155.6) vs. Sidney Outlaw (156)

Round 1

Overseeing the fight is Mike Cimmarusti. McKee lands a body kick to start but it is caught by Outlaw. A takedown lands for Outlaw, who is in full guard. Outlaw improves to half-guard. McKee is staying active with strikes from the bottom, but they're not doing any damage. McKee recovers guard. The crowd is booing. 90 seconds to go. Outlaw is happy to stay in full guard.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Outlaw
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 McKee
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Outlaw

Round 2

McKee sprawls and defends a takedown from Outlaw. A body kick from McKee is caught, and Outlaw goes for the takedown. McKee lands elbows while defending and gets back to his feet. Outlaw is cut, but he gets the takedown. Outlaw bleeding all over McKee while eating elbows in full guard. Outlaw once again not looking to improve position. McKee sweeps position and goes into full mount. Outlaw gives up his back but then scrambles back into guard. A real sliver of danger for Outlaw that is avoided. Outlaw stays on top but does next-to-no damage as the round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 McKee
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 McKee
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 McKee

Round 3

McKee's right eye is swollen, and the doctor looks at it. The round starts with McKee being very aggressive. McKee goes for a takedown and puts Outlaw on his back. McKee is in control and landing short elbows. Three minutes left. Nice left hands from McKee. Outlaw is exhausted and has his arm trapped. Halfway through the final round. Outlaw is able to reverse position and gets a takedown of his own. McKee lands an upkick. Outlaw is fine potentially grinding out a decision.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 McKee (29-28 McKee)
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 McKee (30-27 McKee)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 McKee (29-28 McKee)

The Official Result

A.J. McKee def. Sidney Outlaw via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27); R3, 5:00.

Danny Sabatello (135.8) vs. Raufeon Stots (135.8)

Round 1

Reffing the rematch is Rob Madrigal. Sabatello throws a knee to start the fight. Several high kicks are thrown but blocked by Stots. Sabatello goes for a takedown and puts Stots on the ground. Sabatello is in half-guard and damaging the body of his opponent. Stots is able to scramble out of it and back to his feet. A body kick stunts Sabatello, and Stots lands a 1-2. A jumping knee misses for Sabatello. A head kick is blocked by Stots. Sabatello gets another takedown and is in half-guard. Stots gives his back up and tries to get back. Stots is against the cage and defends a trip by Sabatello before eventually falling down. Sabatello gets reversed, and now Stots is looking to get the back. Sabatello gets to his feet.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Sabatello
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Sabatello
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Sabatello

Round 2

Sabatello lands a kick, and Stots counters with a punch. A nice 1-2 by Stots. Sabatello goes for a naked takedown that is stuffed. However, Sabatello keeps going and eventually gets Stots down. Sabatello gets the back of his opponent. Stots is defending well. He's trying to turn, but Sabatello's body lock is preventing him from doing so. Two minutes left. Sabatello is looking for an arm-triangle choke. Stots escapes and gets top position. Stots is in half-guard, looking to do damage, but is tangled up by Sabatello. Stots gets the back briefly and lands some good punches. Sabatello looks tired but goes for another takedown and gets it. Stots goes for a guillotine choke and uses it to reverse position. Stots ends the round in control.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Stots
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Stots
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Stots

Round 3

Sabatello eats a jab. Stots knocks Sabatello down and then goes for a headlock. Sabatello gets back to his feet. Stots lands a few knees. Sabatello gets the back of Stots and rolls, looking for a rear-naked choke. A tight body triangle is helping Sabatello control Stots. Sabatello goes for another arm-triangle choke. Again, Stots reverses position. Some nice elbows land for Stots, who has done much more damage this round. Sabatello gets to his feet, and Stots goes for another takedown. Sabatello looks for an anaconda choke, but it goes nowhere. The fight ends with Stots in control.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Stots (29-28 Stots)
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Stots (29-28 Stots)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Stots (29-28 Stots)

The Official Result

Raufeon Stots def. Danny Sabatello via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28); R3, 5:00.

Bellator MMA Bantamweight Title Fight:
Sergio Pettis (135) vs. Patrick Mix (135)

Round 1

Pettis scores with a stiff jab and then finds success with leg kicks. Mix is using his jab effectively. Mix gets an easy takedown and puts Pettis on his back. Mix is in guard and advances to side control. Pettis doing well not to take much damage. Mix landing knees into the shoulder of Pettis. Mix looks for a crucifix position but can't get it. Clear round for Mix.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Mix
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Mix
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Mix

Round 2

Pettis misses a spinning back fist. Mix gets a takedown. A tight body triangle is employed by Mix, who has the back of Pettis. Mix is looking for a rear-naked choke and secures it. It looks tight and Pettis taps! A totally dominant performance by Mix.

The Official Result

Patrick Mix def. Sergio Pettis via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke); R2, 1:51.

Bellator MMA Welterweight Title Fight:
Yaroslav Amosov (169.6) vs. Jason Jackson (169.6)

Round 1

Blake Grice will referee the main event. Jackson defends a takedown from Amosov and punishes him with uppercuts. A nice calf kick lands for Amosov. Jackson is using his range to put his hands on the champion. Good pace from both. Another leg kick for Amosov, who is circling well. Jackson lands a body kick but eats a left hand. Jackson grabs the back of Amosov and secures the takedown briefly. Amosov is back to his feet. Jackson stuffs a takedown and lands a knee. 90 seconds left. Really solid round for the challenger. Amosov catches a kick but still can't get his opponent down. Another takedown is stuffed by "The Ass-Kicking Machine."

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Jackson
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Jackson
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Jackson

Round 2

Amosov eats a right hand to start the round. Jackson takes the center of the cage and defends another takedown attempt. Nice body kick by Amosov. Jackson eats an elbow in the clinch. Nice leg kick by Amosov. Jackson lands some aggressive punches. Jackson stuffs a takedown and lands a huge uppercut. Big uppercuts and knees landing for "The Ass-Kicking Machine." Amosov isn't setting up his takedowns. Nice calf kick for Jackson. An uppercut hurts Amosov, and a high kick is thrown. Amosov is desperate and gets a waistlock. Jackson stays upright against the cage. Amosov eats a nasty back elbow. Jackson gets taken down to end the round, but Amosov was unable to do anything with it.

Sherdog Scores

Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Jackson
Lev Pisarsky scores the round: 10-9 Jackson
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Jackson

Round 3

Amosov is pushed into the cage and controlled by Jackson to start the third round. Nice knee lands for "The Ass-Kicking Machine." Amosov eats a huge uppercut and is hurt badly. Jackson lands a right cross. Jackson is waiting for his spots and not getting overly aggressive. Amosov eats a jab. Jackson drops Amosov with a right hand and is unloading punches. Wow! Amosov face-plants into the canvas after eating an uppercut, and this fight is over. What a performance by Jackson.

The Official Result

Jason Jackson def. Yaroslav Amosov via KO (Punches); R3, 2:08.