Bellator 231 Results: Unexpected end to Jake Hager's fight, former UFC Champion ends 4-year losing streak, Batista shows up
#2 Bec Rawlings (7-8) vs. Ilara Joanne (8-4) (Flyweight)
Bec Rawlings and Ilara Joanne both made their Bellator debuts intending to make a major statement in the Flyweight division. Which debutant came out on top? Let's find out.
Round 1: Joanne pressed early as she attempted a few combinations and kicks. Joanne looked for the overhand right but Rawlings kept retreating in time. Joanne connected with a high kick. Rawlings clinched and Joanne pushed the fight against the cage.
Joanne wrestled Rawlings to the mat and took side control. Joanne worked for towards submission in half guard. Rawlings tried to cut the distance by holding onto Joanne. Rawlings gave away the full guard position. Both women exchanged strikes. Rawlings got in some offense from her back but Joanne was in control as she landed big rights and lefts.
However, the referee stood them up and Rawlings looked to press forward this time around. Joanne connected with a 1-2. The round came to a close with Joanne attempting a spinning kick. 10-9 Joanne
Round 2: Joanne started the second round with a bang by taking Rawlings down within ten seconds after a perfectly placed leg kick. She got into half guard again and landed short punches to the body and face of Rawlings. Joanne transitioned into full guard.
Rawlings tried to get her posture right to neutralize the damage that Joanne could inflict. Joanne created some separation and came down with a few good strikes. Rawlings pushed herself back to the cage with Joanne in full guard. Joanne latched onto Rawlings' back. she looked to get the under-hooks in for the rear-naked choke. Rawlings turned over and landed side control. Joanne briefly gave her back but slipped down and got hold of Rawlings' left leg.
Joanne locked in the kneebar and forced Rawlings to tap.
Result: Ilara Joanne def. Bec Rawlings via submission (kneebar) (3:35, Round 2)
Bellator's Arya Stark crossed out Bec Rawlings out of her 'kill list' with a comprehensive performance. Joanne looked solid on the feet as well as on the mat and pulled off a clever finish against the former UFC fighter.
Published 26 Oct 2019, 12:04 IST