Bellator 235’s newly promoted main event of Toby Misech vs. Erik Perez was over in a flash Friday night.
One of several debuting fighters at Bellator 235 on Friday, Erik Perez was perhaps the most interesting. And one who had flown under the radar. Perez fought out his UFC deal back in 2016, exiting the promotion on a three-fight win streak. Goyito then linked up with Combate Americas, winning a pair of fights there before signing on with Bellator MMA.
Welcoming the top bantamweight to the fold was Toby Misech, no stranger to big fights. Misech, a veteran of Dana White’s Contender Series, went up against former champ Eduardo Dantas in his last contest. He was also fighting at home in Hawaii.
Due to an unexpected turn of events later in the night, Perez vs. Misech was promoted to the main event. That came after Josh Barnett was pulled from the card due to illness.
With the spotlight on them, Perez and Misech immediately traded blows, wasting no time getting going. And they wasted no time ending the night, either. At least Toby Misech didn’t. He connected early, sending Erik Perez crashing to the canvas. Flashing a jab, it was the left hand that followed that actually connected. A follow-up strike was barely necessary. One punch snapped the newcomer’s win streak and spoiled his debut. Misech, meanwhile, was ecstatic, and rightfully so.
Official Result: Toby Misech def. Erik Perez by knockout, Round 1, 0:54
