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The Top Biggest Bellator MMA Fights of All Time
Bellator MMA has officially closed its doors, with its operations now under the banner of the Professional Fighters League (PFL). As the curtain falls on this iconic promotion, we take a moment to honor its incredible legacy. Over the years, Bellator delivered countless memorable moments, from legendary title fights to jaw-dropping finishes.
Let’s dive into the biggest Bellator MMA fights that have defined the promotion’s legacy.
1. Eddie Alvarez vs. Michael Chandler I
Date: November 19, 2011Event: Bellator 58
Considered by many as one of the greatest fights in MMA history, Eddie Alvarez vs. Michael Chandler I was a high-octane clash for the Bellator Lightweight Championship. Chandler shocked the world by defeating Alvarez in a thrilling back-and-forth war that showcased both fighters' grit and technical prowess. The fourth-round rear-naked choke finish by Chandler solidified this bout as an instant classic.
2. Douglas Lima vs. Rory MacDonald I
Date: January 20, 2018Event: Bellator 192
When former UFC standout Rory MacDonald challenged Douglas Lima for the Bellator Welterweight Championship, fans expected fireworks, and the fight did not disappoint. The five-round battle was a display of skill, strategy, and heart. Despite taking significant damage, MacDonald’s persistence earned him a unanimous decision victory and the title in one of the most grueling fights in Bellator history.
3. Patricio “Pitbull” Freire vs. A.J. McKee
Date: July 31, 2021Event: Bellator 263
This showdown was the culmination of the Featherweight World Grand Prix, pitting the dominant champion Patricio “Pitbull” Freire against the undefeated phenom A.J. McKee. The stakes were sky-high, and McKee delivered with a first-round submission, claiming the featherweight title and the $1 million prize. The result not only ended Pitbull’s reign but also marked the arrival of a new superstar.
4. Kimbo Slice vs. Dada 5000
Date: February 19, 2016Event: Bellator 149
While not a technical masterpiece, Kimbo Slice vs. Dada 5000 remains one of Bellator’s most talked-about fights due to its sheer spectacle. The clash of street-fighting legends was chaotic and controversial, ending with Kimbo securing a TKO victory. Despite criticism, this fight drew massive viewership and cemented its place in Bellator’s history as an unforgettable cultural moment.
5. Fedor Emelianenko vs. Chael Sonnen
Date: October 13, 2018Event: Bellator 208
Two of MMA’s biggest personalities collided in the Heavyweight World Grand Prix semifinals. Fedor Emelianenko, the legendary PRIDE champion, faced Chael Sonnen in a fight that delivered exactly what fans wanted. Fedor’s first-round TKO victory over Sonnen was a reminder of his devastating power and solidified his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
6. Tito Ortiz vs. Stephan Bonnar
Date: November 15, 2014Event: Bellator 131
This grudge match between two UFC Hall of Famers brought intense drama to Bellator. The buildup was filled with personal jabs and heated exchanges, making the fight a must-see event. Tito Ortiz emerged victorious via split decision in a fight that highlighted the promotion’s ability to create compelling storylines.
7. Cris Cyborg vs. Julia Budd
Date: January 25, 2020Event: Bellator 238
Cris Cyborg’s Bellator debut was nothing short of spectacular. Facing Julia Budd for the Featherweight Championship, Cyborg delivered a dominant performance, securing a fourth-round TKO to claim the title. The victory made Cyborg the first fighter to win major championships in four different promotions, further cementing her legacy as one of the greatest female fighters in MMA history.
8. Ben Askren vs. Douglas Lima
Date: October 18, 2012Event: Bellator 64
Ben Askren’s grappling dominance was on full display in his bout against Douglas Lima. While not the most action-packed fight, Askren’s unanimous decision victory showcased the wrestler’s ability to neutralize even the most dangerous opponents. This fight played a significant role in defining Askren’s Bellator career and set the stage for Lima’s eventual rise as a welterweight great.
9. Gegard Mousasi vs. Rafael Lovato Jr.
Date: June 22, 2019Event: Bellator 223
This middleweight title fight saw the undefeated Rafael Lovato Jr. dethrone Gegard Mousasi in a thrilling five-round contest. Lovato’s relentless pressure and grappling prowess led to a majority decision victory, making him one of the most surprising champions in Bellator history.
10. Rampage Jackson vs. King Mo II
Date: March 31, 2018Event: Bellator 175
The rematch between Rampage Jackson and King Mo was a grudge match that lived up to the hype. King Mo avenged his previous loss with a unanimous decision victory, but the fight’s intensity and buildup made it one of Bellator’s most memorable rivalries.
These fights are a testament to Bellator MMA’s ability to deliver unforgettable moments in the cage. As we say goodbye to this storied promotion, its legacy will continue to inspire fighters and fans alike. Bellator’s contributions to the MMA world will never be forgotten, and the memories of these epic battles will live on as some of the greatest moments in combat sports history.
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