Ricky Bandejas snapped a two-fight losing streak in a big way with an 81-second knockout at Bellator 225, and he still believes there’s more to come with his striking.
Bridgeport, CT – Ricky Bandejas went through the gauntlet since joining Bellator, defeating James Gallagher in his debut, then falling to top contender Juan Archuleta and top prospect Patrick Mix. He went into Bellator 225 needing a win, and took out Ahmet Kayretli impressively with a KO in the first round.
“I felt good. I trained really hard for this one and it meant a lot to get that win. Especially in that fashion. I knew he comes in wild like that and ducks his head and throws big punches so I was looking for knees, teeps, a quick right hand and it worked out right to the gameplan.”
Bandejas isn’t paid by the minute and win or loss, he’s been getting out of there quickly, which can help make him more active.
“Happy to get a payday and a win, but my last fight was a minute and I lost and this one was a minute and I won so two fights in two minutes. Sounds pretty good to me. If Bellator lets me I’ll just fight. 10 to 15 times in a year. Every other week. As long as I can. So I do like staying active.”
While Bandejas has gained the reputation as a striker in recent fights, he actually comes from a wrestling base.
“It’s crazy my first 10 fights were all wrestling, all takedowns, for my whole amateur career. Recently, since I signed with Bellator, I’ve been knocking guys out. Wherever the fight goes. My plan was to take him down. Never had confidence [in my hands]. Probably still don’t have confidence. I can’t wait to get confidence in my hands.”
Check out the rest of Ricky Bandejas’ Bellator 225 post-fight scrum above!
