On Saturday night, Liam McGeary defended his Bellator Light Heavyweight title for the first time against mixed martial arts pioneer, Tito Ortiz. In the opening minute, McGeary sprawled hard on a badly-timed Ortiz takedown attempt and locked in a seemingly-tight guillotine choke. Ortiz managed to free himself from McGeary’s grasp and landed some decent ground and pound, before McGeary actively pursued a triangle choke. Ortiz once again, managed to avoid a submission attempt, winding up in side control. It would be 3rd time lucky for McGeary, who locked in an inverted triangle from a bizarre position which rendered an almost instantaneous tap from Ortiz.
Liam McGeary vs. Tito Ortiz
Official result: Liam McGeary defeats Tito Ortiz by submission (inverted triangle) R1 4:41
What was the high point of the fight?
This fight was pretty interesting. Tito Ortiz managed to get into his most dominant position, yet McGeary was able to survive the storm and lock in a submission within the opening round. The high point of this fight was McGeary’s unorthodox submission and in particular, the fact that he managed to keep composure whilst in a slightly compromising position.
Where do these two go from here?
Liam McGeary has a very dangerous opponent waiting in the wings. Phil Davis, who was victorious in the Light Heavyweight tournament, will provide a very interesting test for the champion. In his young career, McGeary has shown a willingness to allow himself to be put on his back in his early career, which would be an awful idea against Davis, who is the best wrestler and submission specialist in Bellator’s 205lb division.
It’s nearing the end of the line for Tito Ortiz. Without Ortiz, the sport of MMA would be a lot less popular. Through his feuds with Chuck Liddell and Ken Shamrock, Ortiz garnered interest in the sport when it was still viewed in a negative light by the masses. Tito Ortiz has done it all, been a dominant champion, transcended the MMA bubble and made a lot of money. It’s time to call it quits while he still has his health.
Watch now, later, or never?
Watch this one right now. This fight was pretty interesting to watch.
About the author
