Michael Chandler vs. Will Brooks: What We Learned from Interim Title Fight
Bellator 120 was supposed to feature a rubber match for the lightweight title between Michael Chandler and Eddie Alvarez. Instead, Chandler fought Will Brooks for the interim title on Saturday.
Chandler is the former lightweight champion, while Brooks was a shoo-in to become a future champion with Bellator. When the fight was over, Brooks took a close split decision from the former champion.
What did we learn from this fight? Let's take a look.
What We'll Remember About This Fight
Brooks and his resilience. He was down early thanks to Chandler's ability to get him to the mat, but Brooks used athleticism and cardio to come back.
It was close, but Brooks showed he is a top-notch athlete. Chandler took him down, but Brooks fought back like a warrior. Beating Chandler is a big deal, and Brooks showed he is the real deal.
What We Learned About Brooks
He is a top lightweight in this sport. I have been saying that since he dominated Satoru Kitaoka in Japan, but he really proved it by beating Chandler.
He is definitely a fighter to keep your eye on.
What We Learned About Chandler
He still has to improve. Despite being a Bellator champion in the past, he proved that he is not a world-beater like he showed in his previous bouts.
He got tired quickly and was outgrappled by a guy who had a worse wrestling pedigree than him. He will get better in the gym and has a bright future, regardless.
What's Next for Brooks?
This one is obvious. Alvarez is next. The winner is the undisputed Bellator champ and a guy that the UFC is taking a close look at.
What's Next for Chandler?
Now that his shot at Alvarez is gone, he should enter the next lightweight tournament. He has many options, but a fight with Paul Sass, who should be in a tournament, would be an interesting scrap.
