· Bellator Signs Welterweight Champion Douglas “The Phenom” Lima

· Article author: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). Posted on 05/09 at 05:29 PM

In another acquisition of top-flight competition, Bellator Fighting Championships today announced the signing of reigning Maximum Fighting Championship welterweight champion, Douglas “The Phenom” Lima. The Brazilian born Atlanta-based 23-year-old is set to enter the upcoming welterweight tournament and has his gaze already focused on avenging a previous loss.

In May of 2008, Lima held the American Fight League championship belt when he faced current Bellator veteran and tournament semifinalist, Brent Weedman, in his first title defense. Unfortunately for Lima, he came up short as Weedman submitted him via armbar in the second round.

Three years later, Lima has grown by leaps and bounds as a mixed martial artist; however, his earlier undoing has not escaped his concern.

“I definitely want to get that loss back from Brent Weedman,” Lima remarked. “I was very young when I fought him. He's a cool guy, but I wouldn't mind getting back inside the cage with him to get that one back.”

Fighting out of American Top Team Atlanta, Lima (18-4) presently rides an impressive six-fight win streak, having most recently competed at “MFC 29: Conquer” in April where he defeated Terry Martin by technical knockout in the first round.

While relishing the opportunity to perform on a bigger stage, “The Phenom” has no intention of retooling the style that has led to 16 finishes in his 18 wins (five knockouts and 11 submissions). Utilizing a high-level Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai skill set, reservation is not necessarily part of his game plan.

“I just really want to finish all of my fights,” he exclaimed. “Every time I fight, I'm always looking for some way to finish. I don't like leaving my fate in the hands of the judges. If we stand up I'm going to try to knock my opponent's head off, and if we go to the ground, I'm good there too.”

That enduring attitude is exactly what motivated the signing of Lima, according to Bellator Chairman and CEO Bjorn Rebney. “We continue to develop one of the strongest 170 pound divisions in the sport, and Douglas will be a fantastic addition to that,” Rebney stated.