Four-Time NCAA All American Erik Larkin Impresses In Bellator Debut

Eric Larkin, a four-time NCAA All-American wrestler and one of the most hyped signings in recent memory for Bellator Championships took full advantage of his first opportunity with the promotion, choking out Marcus Andrusia via guillotine choke at 2:46 in the first round. The former Arizona State Sun Devil was able to demonstrate his wrestling prowess, but wasn’t forced to rely on it to win the fight. After only a few seconds of feeling each other out, Larkin was able to drop his opponent to the canvas with a headkick, to which Andrusia immediately bounded back to his feet and went for the takedown. Andrusia was able to slam Larkin to mat, but not without leaving his neck exposed.

Andrusia did not make the correct adjustment by moving into the top side control on the opposite side of the choke, which allowed Larkin to pull off a sweep that let him establish half guard from top, still holding on to the guillotine. After letting go of the choke in favor of some devastating shots while standing in Andrusia’s guard, Larkin was again able to secure the guillotine and get the tap. The fight was over sometime during the ground and pound, causing Andrusia to all but curl into the fetal position in an attempt to protect himself. Larkin remarked after the fight that he would be comfortable competing in either of Bellator’s lightweight or featherweight tournaments. Since making his professional debut in April, Larkin has established himself as one of the top up-an-coming prospects in MMA. It’s pretty impressive to see someone appear to be so well-seasoned after only three pro fights. Keep an eye on this guy.

check out the official Bellator 28 results below

props to MMA Mania

Televised Card Results

Eric Larkin def. Marcus Andrusia via submission (guillotine choke) - Round 1, 2:46
Carey Vanier def. Rich Clementi via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Eric Schambari def. Matt Horwich via split decision (30-27, 30-27, 28-29)
Georgi Karakhanyan def. Anthony Leone via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

Undercard Results

Tony Roberts def. Kelvin Doss via submission (punches) - Round 1
Jonathan Mackles def. Brock Kerry via split decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Charlie Rader def. Josh Rafferty via TKO (strikes) - Round 1, 1:14
Scott O’Shaughnessy def. Gabe Woods via submission (armbar) - Round 3, 2:11