- George Chung
- May 23, 2024
- 2 min read
The Accor Arena in Paris, France was once again the host of an incredible night of mixed martial arts (MMA) action, as the Bellator Champions Series delivered with an exciting championship main event, as well as the return of a hometown hero.
Let’s take a quick look back at the most exciting moments from Bellator Champions Series: Paris.
Cédric Doumbé’s Explosive Bellator Debut
While he was competing in the co-main event at Bellator, Cédric Doumbé (6-1) was no doubt the man that everyone in the arena wanted to see. The French striking standout made an explosive entrance to the Bellator scene, thrilling the Parisian crowd with a first-round TKO victory over Jaleel Willis (16-6). Doumbé’s striking power was on full display, ending the fight at 3:33 of round one and sending the audience into a frenzy.
It was a fitting conclusion to weeks of verbal back-and-forth between Doumbe and Willis.
A New Challenger Steps Up to “The Best.”
The excitement didn't end after the bell for Doumbe, as former UFC and Bellator champion Anthony Pettis entered the cage post-fight, declaring his intention to face the hometown favorite in Paris. The potential matchup promises another spectacular showdown, further elevating Doumbé’s already impressive debut.
Pettis, meanwhile, last fought in the PFL in 2022, but has remained active in combat sports through boxing and Karate Combat.
Patchy Mix Retains Bantamweight Title in Epic Rematch
Patchy Mix (20-1) reaffirmed his status as one of the top fighters in the world with a hard-fought victory over Magomed Magomedov (16-2) to retain his Bellator Bantamweight Championship. The main event was a closely contested battle that went the distance, with both fighters having their moments over the 25-minute bout. Mix ultimately secured the split decision win (48-47, 46-49, 48-47), marking his seventh consecutive victory and second title defense. The rematch proved Mix's resilience and tactical prowess, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final bell.
Costello Van Steenis Silences the Home Crowd
Costello Van Steenis (15-3) delivered a stunning performance, silencing the home crowd by defeating France's Gregory Babene (23-12) via Von Flue Choke at 2:16 of round two. "The Spaniard" showcased his grappling skills, earning a submission victory and securing a future shot at the Bellator Middleweight World Championship. With this win, Van Steenis sets his sights on the undefeated champion Johnny Eblen, adding another layer of intrigue to the middleweight division.
With the thrilling culmination of the Paris event, anticipation now builds for Bellator Champion Series Dublin on June 22 at the 3Arena. The event will be headlined by Welterweight Champion Jason Jackson (18-4), who is on an impressive eight-fight win streak, defending his title against the undefeated Ramazan Kuramagomedov (12-0).
Additionally, Irish prospect Paul Hughes (11-1) will make his promotional debut against Bellator veteran Bobby King (12-6), promising an exciting night for MMA fans.
The Bellator Champions Series: Paris has set a high bar for excitement and competition, leaving fans eager for more as the series continues in Dublin.
