Ben Askren wins interesting match at Bellator

Ben Askren got the win, but appeared to not be overly thrilled by it. In a controversial stoppage Askren earned the win over Ryan Thomas by way of technical submission.

In what appeared to be a very evenly matched bout, where Askrens inexperience seemed to show some, the sudden stoppage brought down a rain of Boo’s from the fans at the Chicago Theater. Thomas looked to have the edge when it came to BJJ, but Askren did not stop moving and was working for a submission the entire time.

Thomas who was clearly upset had no issue with expressing his frustration with the referee. But, Thomas also showed a lot of class with his comments towards Askren. Askren also admitted he was surprised and knew that Thomas had not tapped.

They both had some good comments in the post fight interviews. Thomas called out Bellator and suggested they should add another match to next weeks card and have an immediate rematch. Askren was game saying “I will fight him next Tuesday if he wants”. Basically saying he would do the rematch anytime or anywhere.