Nemkov Dominates Eccentric Yoel Romero, Sergio Pettis Beats Patricio Pitbull at Bellator 297
Vadim Nemkov and Sergio Pettis Successfully Defend Their Titles at Bellator 297
It was a night of “and still.”
Vadim Nemkov and Sergio Pettis both defended their titles in dominating fashion, with each Bellator champion taking a convincing unanimous decision win over the challengers.
Nemkov was able to cruise in his fight against the fan-favorite Romero, who couldn’t get much offense going. The fight was reminiscent of his battle with Israel Adesanya, with a very stationary Romero getting outstruck the entire fight. However, Nemkov wasn’t trigger-shy like Adesanya, dishing out plenty of punishment on the Cuban veteran.
The best of the best! 🔥
Another phenomenal victory for Vadim Nemkov. Can anyone stop the light-heavyweight king here in Bellator? 🤔#Bellator297 pic.twitter.com/warQbO5UEu
— Bellator MMA (@BellatorMMA) June 17, 2023
Despite not being able to get much going fight-wise, Romero still had a classic “Soldier of God” moment – trying to deke Nemkov with moves that called back the classic Jackie Chan movie Drunken Master.
Who did it better? Yoel Romero or Jackie Chan?
@YoelRomeroMMA @EyeOfJackieChan pic.twitter.com/vizQvnhD98
— InsideFighting (@InsideFighting_) June 17, 2023
Sergio Pettis Spoils Patricio Pitbull’s Attempt at History
Patricio Pitbull attempted what no other MMA fighter has accomplished before – winning a title in three different weight classes for a major promotion. The current Bellator featherweight champion and former lightweight champion dropped down to bantamweight to challenge Sergio Pettis for the 135 strap – but couldn’t get the job done.
A career-defining win! 🔥
It’s #AndStill for @sergiopettis. He defeats the Bellator GOAT to retain the bantamweight world championship in Chicago. #Bellator297 | #BlackhawkTire | @SHOsports pic.twitter.com/m9Jjpns8hW
— Bellator MMA (@BellatorMMA) June 17, 2023
It was a complete performance for Pettis, shutting down Pitbull’s grappling game while working his magic on the feet. The slick-striking Pettis landed multiple heavy shots – including a spinning heel kick in the second round that nearly left Pitbull out on his feet.
👀 @sergiopettis hurts @PatricioPitbull with the spinning wheel kick! #Bellator297 LIVE NOW:
🇺🇸 @SHOsports / 🇧🇷 @combate
🌍 Find out how to watch ▶️ https://t.co/jPjMHzLhCd pic.twitter.com/bqRiA0feWc— Bellator MMA (@BellatorMMA) June 17, 2023
It was Pettis’ first fight in nearly 2 years, but the champ showed no signs of ring-rust. When the dust settled and his hand was raised, he faced off against his next opponent – Bellator Bantamweight Grand Prix winner Patchy Mix.
Next up at 135-pounds will be @sergiopettis vs. @TeamMixMMA! #Bellator297 https://t.co/eWKwZTJe1D
— Scott Coker (@ScottCoker) June 17, 2023
One thing’s for certain – Pettis vs. Mix is a certified banger.
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