Ramazan Kuramagomedov (Credit: Bellator)
Ramazan Kuramagomedov begins new era as Bellator welterweight champion
Coming into Bellator Champions Series in Dublin, Ireland this past weekend, reigning and defending champion Jason Jackson was preparing to usher in a long title reign, until Ramazan Kuramagomedov entered the cage. In just his third appearance with the Bellator promotion, Kuramagomedov found himself with an opportunity at his first Bellator world title in just his third appearance in the promotion, but was also riding a 12-fight winning streak.
Not much time had gone by before it became apparent that the night would belong to Kuramgomedov in pursuit of his first world title. Taking control of the fight from the very first round, Kuramagomedov used all aspects of his skillset to control the first three rounds of the fight. Having to weather the storm in the later rounds, Kuramagomedov was able to withstand a late push from Jackson, and all that was left was the judges’ decision.
After 25 minutes of back-and-forth action, Ramazan Kuramagomedov waited in anticipation and then exhaled with joy as the judges scored him the winner with all three scorecards reading 48-47, unanimous decision for the new welterweight champion. While the decision may have surprised the oddsmakers, it was not a surprise to Kuramagomedov and his team, as he now cements himself as another great champion from Russia.
Speaking to the media before his fight, Kuramagomedov discussed what it would mean for him to win the Bellator world title after having his last three fights in the promotion.
“That’s been my whole goal my entire career. I’ve been doing this for 13 years now, since I came to the gym I’ve always wanted to have the belt. That’s what I was working hard for and definitely in Dublin, I’d like to see the belt around my waist.”
Because of his relentless pressure, effective striking and grappling and his champion mindset, Ramazan Kuramagomedov not only saw the Bellator welterweight title around his waist, he saw the beginning of a new era, the one that sees an undefeated Russian champion on top once again.
Where he goes from here remains to be seen, but Kuramagomedov beat a champion who was on a remarkable run and now he’ll have the opportunity to create his own run, with faces new and old coming for a title fight opportunity. It won’t be an easy opportunity as Kuramagomedov demonstrated in his first title fight, he’s ready for a war and will go the distance to hold his gold if need be.
