(Photo courtesy of James Law/Heavy MMA)Bellator 141: What to Watch For RJ Gardner August 24, 2015 Bellator, Bellator Events, Events, Previews, Promotions, Spotlight Bellator MMA has quietly become a true competitor to the UFC’s dominance of the MMA marketplace. Between creative matchmaking, solid talent development and strong free agent signing Bellator – under the leadership of Scott Coker – looks primed and ready to gain even more ground on the competition moving forward. Bellator may not have the overall depth at this point, but their talent at the top is as good as any other organization in the world. Bellator might put together questionable main events from time to time, but the thinking behind their actions is sound; give the casual fans an attraction that will draw them in while also showcasing your true talent. When Bellator heads to the Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula, Calif., on Friday, Aug. 28, 2015, fans will be treated to a great night of fights as Bellator 141 features some of the organizations best unheralded talent. Prospect Watch – A.J. McKee Son of respected MMA veteran fighter and talented coach, Antonio McKee, A.J., made his pro MMA debut at Bellator 136 in April of 2015 and looked impressive doing so. The former high school wrestling standout submitted Marcos Bonilla in the first round with a rear naked choke. It is still extremely early in McKee’s career, but he is a fighter to keep your eye on. WMMA Coker has long been at the forefront of Women’s MMA, and finally, we are getting a chance to see that in the Bellator cage. While Bellator has hosted several women’s bouts under that direction of Coker, this is the first event fans will really see a diverse offering of the female talent Bellator has to offer. By focusing on women’s weight classes not offered by the UFC, Bellator has a great chance to corner the market on several divisions. Can Melvin Guillard Reinvent Himself? One of the most dynamic and physically gifted fighters in the lightweight division, Guillard has always been his own worst enemy. Between struggles in his personal life and his often reckless style in the cage, Guillard has never been able to put it all together and cash in on his massive potential. Even though Guillard has been competing as a pro since 2002 and has 50 recorded pro bouts under his belt, he is only 32 years old. While his window to be great is closing, Guillard still has time to become the fighter many believe he can be.
