When Phil Davis left his top 10 ranking in Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to pursue a shot at the belt in Bellator MMA many were left scratching their heads.
Perhaps last night's (Sat., Sept. 19, 2015) efforts will remove some of that doubt, after "Mr. Wonderful" finished both his opponents in convincing fashion in the first round to take the Light Heavyweight Tournament belt and set up a showdown with undefeated Bellator champion Liam McGeary.
Davis, 15-3, began the night with a slick kimura submission against veteran Emanuel Newton, sending him to the Light Heavyweight final against Muhammad "King Mo" Lawal. However, an injury to the ribs of Lawal left it up to former UFC fighter Francis Carmont to take his place.
Carmont was looking to capitalize on the momentum of his decision win over Anthony Ruiz earlier in the evening. After a two minute feeling out process, Davis landed a huge left hand that left Carmont slumped against the fence.
It was the first knockout of Davis' career and it couldn't have come at a better time, earning him an opportunity to fight the champion, who also prevailed in the main event against Tito Ortiz.
For full results from Bellator 142: Dynamite 1 click here.
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