L. Machida (left) beats R. Carvalho (right). Photo: Montagem SL MMA Press
It was painful, but Lyoto Machida debuted in Bellator with victory. In the 213th edition of the attraction, the former UFC champion encountered difficulties at the beginning, but managed to recover in the second half of the duel and defeated his compatriot Raphael Carvalho in the judges' split decision (29-28. 28-29. 29-28).
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Still in the circular cage, Machida wasted no time and asked for a chance at the middleweight belt, currently held by Gegard Mousasi.
The fight
The fight between the Brazilians began with a lot of study. But with Rafael landing the best blows and Machida struggling to counterattack. Still in the first round, Lyoto's nose began to bleed due to the powerful direct hit.
In the second round, Rafael continued to be better on his feet, but Lyoto was already able to use his movement in the cage. In one of Carvalho's attacks he took his compatriot to the canvas when he landed a counter punch. But Machida got up quickly
Having difficulties fighting on the feet, Machida changed his strategy in the third round. He, who ran away from Rafael's attack during the exchange of punches, worked with takedowns and even mounted Rafael. The former UFC player scored points, tried to finish with a Kimura and ended the period with an advantage.
However, when everyone thought that the triumph would be Raphael Carvalho, the side referees scored the victory of Lyoto Machida.
Neiman Gracie finishes and advances in GP
Another Brazilian on the Bellator 213 card was the black belt Neiman Gracie. The fighter made good on his surname and submitted Ed Ruth, an efficient wrestler previously undefeated, with a rear naked choke in the fourth round. With the result, the Brazilian advances to the next phase of the welterweight GP (77.1 kg) of the event.
Bellator 213 results
MAIN CARD
Ilima-Lei Macfarlane submitted Valerie Letourneau with an armbar in R3
Lyoto Machida derrotou Raphael Carvalho in the judges' split decision
Neiman Gracie finished Ed Ruth with a rear naked choke at 2m17s of R4.
Liam McGeary defeated Muhammed Lawal by knockout 53s into R3.
Nainoa Dung defeated Kona Oliveira by technical knockout at 2:05 of R3.
PRELIMINARY CARD
Dustin Barca defeated Isaac Hopps via split decision
Maki Pitolo vdefeated Chris Cisneros by submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:40 of round 3.
Kai Kamaka III defeated Shojin Miki via unanimous decision by the judges.
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