Although Bellator 106 lost it’s original headliner between “Rampage” Jackson and Tito Ortiz, and is no longer set to for pay-per-view, it’s arguably the biggest and most important event in the promotion’s history. After all, not only does the card feature a high profile rematch between lightweight champ Michael Chandler and Eddie Alvarez, but it will also showcase featherweight champ Pat Curran, and a grudge match between “King Mo” Lawal and Emanuel Newton (which is also for the interim light-heavyweight belt). In other words, it’s a card that Bellator’s parent company Viacom likely expects to draw significant ratings.
There certainly seems to be some buzz about the card online, but that’s within the dedicated fan base which visits MMA sites regularly etc. That said, there’s also been critics who say the loss of the PPV is an indication Bellator’s future is in doubt. Perhaps it’s because of all the discussion and speculation that’s been tied to the event, that Lawal relayed the following about Bellator 106 at an open workout (comments via MMA Junkie.com).
“I feel like the theme of this whole card is people trying to come up. Newton trying to make a name for himself. I’m trying to beat Newton to get revenge. (Daniel) Straus and (Pat) Curran are both trying to make names for themselves, and … (Eddie) Alvarez is trying to get back in the spotlight, and Chandler’s like, ‘I’m the champ. You’re not getting your belt back.’
“It’s about guys trying to come up and be respected within an organization that a lot of people out there, UFC groupies, they downplay the whole card. I’ve seen people on Twitter saying, ‘Bellator failed because it’s (not) on pay-per-view.’ Why are you complaining about fights falling through when there are still fights left. Be happy you’re seeing fights for free. Don’t bash organizations because they have shortcomings. They’re fights. If you want to see lesser fights, go to a bar, get two people drunk, and then instigate a fight between them. You can watch a fight for free then. But if you want to see high-level competition, tune in to Spike TV Nov. 2 and watch this fight.”
There’s no doubt that fans who don’t watch, simply because the action won’t take place in an Octagon, could miss out on a great night of free fights.
Stay tuned to MMA Frenzy.com for all your Bellator news and coverage.
Front-Page Photo Credit: Bellator
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