Corey Anderson achieved a significant milestone in his career by claiming the vacant Bellator MMA light heavyweight title after defeating Irish challenger Karl Moore. This victory marked Anderson’s third attempt at securing the title, with previous challenges ending in a no contest and a decision loss. Despite his extensive experience in the UFC, where he never fought for a title, Anderson finally realized his dream of becoming a champion in Bellator. His relentless wrestling skills proved to be the key to his success in the fight against Moore, as he dominated the match with takedowns and control on the ground. The judges unanimously scored the fight in favor of Anderson, with impressive scores of 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46.
In the co-main event, two-time featherweight champion Patricio Pitbull showcased his resilience and skill by defending his title against Canadian challenger Jeremy Kennedy. Pitbull faced adversity in the third round when he was dropped by a powerful left hook from Kennedy. However, he quickly recovered and retaliated with a series of strikes that forced Kennedy to back up against the fence. Pitbull’s relentless assault culminated in a third-round TKO victory, solidifying his status as a dominant champion in the featherweight division. This win marked Pitbull’s return to the win column after facing setbacks in previous fights against Sergio Pettis and Chihiro Suzuki.
The event where Anderson and Pitbull showcased their championship prowess was the inaugural installment of the Bellator Champions Series, signaling a new era in the promotion’s history. Following the merger with PFL last year, Bellator introduced this series to highlight the top-tier talent within its roster and provide a platform for champions to defend their titles and showcase their skills. With electrifying matchups and memorable moments, the Champions Series promises to deliver action-packed fights and compelling narratives for fans of mixed martial arts.
As Corey Anderson and Patricio Pitbull continue to reign as champions in their respective divisions, the landscape of Bellator MMA is evolving with new challengers emerging and established stars making their mark. With the success of the Champions Series and the anticipation of upcoming events, the promotion is poised to attract a wider audience and solidify its position in the world of mixed martial arts. As fans eagerly await future matchups and potential title fights, the momentum generated by Anderson and Pitbull’s victories sets the stage for an exciting and competitive period in Bellator MMA.