Cole Konrad becomes first Bellator Heavyweight Champion

While expectations have been high, maybe too high, on Cole Konrad since his inception into the mixed martial arts world, it looks that the former two-time NCAA champion has finally arrived.

After hearing rave reviews of his obvious potential from fellow wrestlers turned mixed martial arts stars, including former Strikeforce light heavyweight champion “King” Mo, and current UFC heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar, it was Konrad who put any doubters to rest when he was able to submit veteran Neil Grove, inside of the first round at Bellator 32, last night.

The 265-pound star had entered his career in the Bellator Fighting Championships with an impressive pedigree in amateur wrestling, and had recorded two back-to-back finishes in his first two fights as a professional. However, he was unable to produce the same kind of success under the Bellator banner, at least at first.

After debuting with the organization last May at Bellator 17, Konrad set the precedent, by winning by unanimous decision, in what was a display of superior ground prowess by the Minnesota Martial Arts Academy, product. But with little more than that, Konrad left fans wanting. Entering the tournament, Cole was an obvious favorite to win it all, but many felt that the equally impressive Grove, a knockout whiz, would be Konrad’s demise.

They were wrong.

After going the distance four times in a row, including his two bouts in the tournament en route to the finals at Bellator 32, Konrad was able to easily take down Neil with minimal effort. From there, he was eventually able to secure Keylock, forcing the tap out with just 15 seconds to go inside of the first round, crowning him the first-ever Bellator heavyweight champion.

Undefeated in his young career, it’s going to be tough to think who can compete with the 6’5 talent under the Bellator banner. Bjorn Rebney is going to have to do his damndest to fine someone who will be competitive against the impressive Konrad.

So, MMA peeps, are you equally impressed with Cole and his start into the MMA world? What did you think of his performance against the UFC veteran? Sound off in the comment section below.