The Bellator Lightweight Grand Prix is underway.
Newly crowned champion Usman Nurmagomedov will defend his title and perfect 16-0 record against former UFC and WEC Champion Benson Henderson. The lightweight title fight headlines Bellator 292, which takes place in San Jose, California.
Round 1:
Nurmagomedov lands a body kick to start off the fight. The champ follows it up with a stunning question-mark head kick which knocks down Henderson. Nurmagomedov rushes in and topples Henderson on the ground, pounding away with punches. Nurmagomedov seizes the back of the former UFC king. Nurmagomedov looks to lock in a rear-naked choke but Henderson defends well.
Nurmagomedov lands some nasty ground and pound before going for the rear-naked choke once again. Within a few seconds of having his neck squeezed, Henderson has no choice but to tap out. Nurmagomedov has successfully defended his title.
Henderson would hang up the gloves afterwards, announcing his retirement.
Official result: Usman Nurmagomedov defeats Benson Henderson via submission (rear-naked choke) (R1 2:37)
Check out the highlights below:
Usman Nurmagomedov is wasting no time! @BellatorMMA @usmannmgdv#Bellator292’s Main Card is LIVE on @Showtime! https://t.co/1hLaR0RaHT
— All the Smoke Fight (@ats_fight) March 11, 2023
Usman Nurmagomedov gets it done in quick fashion! @BellatorMMA @usmannmgdv#Bellator292’s Main Card is LIVE on @Showtime! https://t.co/JRHhUlAukF
— All the Smoke Fight (@ats_fight) March 11, 2023
Congratulations to Benson Henderson on a legendary MMA career! @BellatorMMA @BensonHenderson#Bellator292’s Main Card is LIVE on @Showtime! https://t.co/7MvIWXANgL
— All the Smoke Fight (@ats_fight) March 11, 2023
