Bellator 43 Recap

Bellator 43 treated fans at the First Council Casino in Newkirk, Oklahoma to the first of 4 tournament finals which pitted welterweights Jay Hieron and Rick Hawn with the winner earning his shot at champion Ben Askren.

Jay Hieron defeated Rick Hawn by Split Decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

My Prediction Hieron Decision

This fight was basically a kickboxing match where Hieron was able to stick and move using nice leg kicks moving in and out and circling and stopping Hawn from be able to get his timing down. Hawn did have his moments near the end of the 2nd and as the 3rd went on it seemed Hawn may have been the fresher competitor. In the end Hieron got the split decision, it was clear the 3rd round went to Hawn and I thought it would be close after the surge Hawn had near the end of the 2nd could of stole that round in some judges eyes. $1/2

Future match ups to make:

Hieron will take on Bellator welterweight champion Ben Askren. Hieron will get another shot at a title after things with Strikeforce fizzled out for him and IFL went out of business.

Bryan Baker defeated Joe Riggs by KO 3:53 2nd Round

My Prediction Baker Decision

Baker's aggression was the difference in this fight as he had numerous knee attempts of the flying and in the clinch variety. But it was up against the cage that Baker found victory with a left hook that floored Riggs. Also it has to be noted the sportsmanship of Baker by not pounding a downed Riggs when ref Jason Herzog was a little late to step in. $$

Future match ups to make:

Though not an official qualifier you would think Bellator officials will want Baker in next seasons middleweight tournament.

Chase Beebe defeated Jose Vega by Submission (guillotine) 4:06 1st Round

My Prediction Beebe Submission 2nd Round

Another first round submission victory for the former WEC champion as he had little trouble putting away the always game Vega. Beebe attempted the guillotine 3 times during the round but the 3rd time would prove to be the charm as he was able to secure guard as the fighters hit the mat. $$1/2

Future matchups to make:

Beebe will now participate in next seasons bantamweight tournament and will surely be a contender in what should be a pretty exciting tournament.

Ron Sparks defeated Vince Lucera by Submission (keylock) 2:18 1st Round

My Prediction Sparks TKO 1st Round

Not much to say here Sparks had this fight however he wanted it. He used some good leg kicks early the ended up tripping up Lucera onto the mat and it was over pretty quick with the submission victory and Sparks undefeated record intact. $$

Future match ups to make:

Sparks will probably be considered to take part in the Season 5 heavyweight tournament.

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