Ryan Bader proved why he’s in the Bellator Heavyweight Grand Prix on Saturday, making short work of King Mo.
In the main event at Bellator 199 on Saturday in San Jose, the World Heavyweight Grand Prix got back underway. Sure, it was a pair of light heavyweights, including champ Ryan Bader, partaking. But that shouldn’t take away from the fun, should it? It was the final bout of the opening round, and with its conclusion, the semi-final bracket would be set. Facing Bader was King Mo Lawal, a man with plenty of Grand Prix experience.
Heading into the fight, King Mo accused Ryan Bader of having no rhythm, while Bader pointed out simply that his awkward style got him wins. It was likely to be a preview of an eventual 205lb title fight, but first, there was three rounds or less in the grand prix.
A lot, lot less in the end. Within seconds, Ryan Bader put an end to King Mo’s night! Lawal opened by going to the body early with a punch. Then Bader came forward with a left hook that dropped King Mo. Bader charged in after him, and while Lawal tried to cover up, Bader unleashed right hand after right hand until ref Mike Beltran had seen enough and waved it off!
With the win, Ryan Bader moves forward in the Bellator World Heavyweight Grand Prix, where he’ll face former UFC heavyweight Matt Mitrione. It was a near flawless performance from ‘Darth Bader’ — and may change a few opinions about him getting in with the heavyweights, as although Lawal is best known as a light heavyweight, he’d previously won a RIZIN heavyweight grand prix.
Ryan Bader def. King Mo Lawl by knockout, Round 1, 0:15
