Douglas Lima: 5 Defining Moments

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Douglas Lima (30-7) is a welterweight fighter that plies his trade with Bellator MMA. Currently, the Brazilian combatant is participating in the organization’s welterweight grand prix. Lima progressed from the opening round with a rear-naked choke victory over Andrey Koreshkov at Bellator 206. For his semi-final showing on May 11, Lima will face Michael Page at Bellator 221.

As the fight day looms, here are five moments that have come to define the career of the 31-year-old pugilist known as “The Phenom.”

TOURNAMENT TRIUMPH

At Bellator 57 Lima squared off against Ben Saunders in the final of the Bellator Season 5 welterweight tournament. The American knockout artist was happy to stand and trade with Lima in what proved to be an entertaining contest. The finish came from a blistering left hook to the head which sent Saunders crashing to the canvas in the second frame.

FACING ADVERSITY

In his next appearance at Bellator 64, Lima challenged Ben Askren for the promotion’s welterweight strap. The 25-minute battle had the former Olympic wrestler intent on spending as little time as possible trading strikes on the feet with his heavy-handed Brazilian rival. The American’s takedowns and stifling top control proved too much for Lima, who despite his best efforts was unable to mount any sustained offense. Although he hung tough and survived, after five rounds the judges all sided with Askren.

CLAIMING THE THRONE

At Bellator 117, Lima fought Rick Hawn for the organization’s vacant welterweight title. From the get-go, it was evident that Hawn had no answer to the powerful Brazilian’s slick stand-up as Lima’s heavy low kicks left Hawn limping. Following a sustained beating, Hawn’s corner threw in the towel at the 3:19 point of the second round. The TKO win saw “The Phenom” finally claim the belt.

LOSING THE TITLE

In what was to be the first of three fights between the pair, Lima defended his belt against Koreshkov at Bellator 140. The Russian’s game plan was to stifle Lima and not allow him to engage in a stand-up striking match. Koreshkov succeeded in dominating the champion with single leg takedowns and strong clinch work. A frustrated Lima was unable to employ his diverse striking offense, and following five rounds of largely one-sided action, the judges all opted for Koreshkov.

REDEMPTION

Lima challenged for the welterweight strap again at Bellator 164. His opponent was again Koreshkov. This time around, “The Phenom” had more success with his striking. Early in the third, the combatants were throwing heavy punches at each other beside the cage when Lima connected with a left hook to the head that sent Koreshkov tumbling to his back. After two further punches, the referee stopped the bout and gave Lima the victory. The Brazilian was the Bellator welterweight champion for the second time.