Bellator 145 highlights: Rickels wins walkout, but Chandler wins fight

It took Michael Chandler only 44 seconds to KO David Rickels all of two years ago, so it was no surprise that the former lightweight champion was a heavy favorite to beat tonight's foe yet again. While Rickels was more competitive in this one than when they fought for the lightweight title, he still ended up on the wrong end of a stoppage defeat.

Chandler came out as the aggressor in round 1, backing Rickels up and firing heavy shots but not landing cleanly. He spent much of the round working from top position through 2 takedowns, but Rickels was able to get out of round 1 not too heavily damaged. Things would change in round 2 as Rickels found some success with his striking, only to be walloped with a massive right hand. Chandler went for the kill, attempting a guillotine choke, then firing away ground-and-pound at the bloodied Rickels, then tried another choke before ultimately settling on more strikes to his face to end the fight.

Official result: Michael Chandler def. David Rickels via TKO (punches) at 3:05 of round 2

Missouri's own Chandler gets another win in front of his home fans and is in good position to get another shot at the lightweight belt, which was once in his possession. Kansas' Rickels has won just once in his last four outings and has suffered his 3rd KO/TKO loss in 4 defeats.

While Rickels didn't win the fight, but at least he won the walkout battle.