Bellator XX: Middleweight Semifinals Preview

On May 27th, 2010, Bellator XX will feature Season Two's middleweight semifinalist matches.

Bryan Baker vs. Eric Shambari

At 12-1-0, Baker has utilized submissions in the past, although he is primarily a striker. He has a lot of decision victories on his record, which may cause him trouble against Shambari.

Shambari holds a record of 12-1-0, has ended the majority of his fights, and his last three victories have been by submission. He likes to finish the fights, so this match may not go past the first round.

It should be noted that Shambari's only loss was at the hands of Baker in 2007, the result of which came by split decision. The difference between now and 2007 might end up being who wants the victory more.

This will no doubt be another close fight.

Alexander Shlemenko vs. Jared Hess

Holding a record of 28-4-0, Shlemenko is a striker and an experienced one at that.  He can also submit his opponents and he's very versatile with his striking, most notably obtaining a KO victory by a spinning back fist.

Hess comes into this fight at 11-1-1 and his only loss was to Hector Lombard, the current Bellator middleweight champion.  In his last two fights, Hess has gone back to his grappling roots, successfully adding two submissions to his record.

If Hess does end up facing Lombard again, there will be no doubt that he'll know what to expect.  Could he actually be a contender this time around?

Hector Lombard has become the man to beat.  By beating Jay Silva in a mere six seconds, Lombard sent a loud reminder to the Bellator semifinalists that he is the champ and he wants to stay at the top.

Be sure to watch Bellator XX on May 27th.