Mike Kimbel, Bellator’s next big star?

It has been said many times but it is worth repeating: Bellator MMA is where prospects go to thrive. We have seen that with rising phenom Aaron Pico and current Women’s Flyweight Champion Ilima-Lei Macfarlane. Each card Bellator puts out, there is always someone to look out for. No fighter should go unnoticed. Case in point? Mike Kimbel.

At Bellator 207 this past weekend, Kimbel (2-0) was on the third bout of the pre-show, facing off against Syracuse’s Alex Potts. What did he do? Oh, just tied the record for fastest knockout in Bellator history. Kimbel knocked out Potts (1-1) with a vicious hook right at the start of the bout. Smelling blood, Kimbel pounced until referee Todd Anderson called for the fight to be over. The crowd in Uncasville, Connecticut was stunned and amazed at what they saw.

Mike "The Savage" Kimbel just tied the record for fastest KO in @Bellatormma history. Just 6 seconds… here's the entire fight. pic.twitter.com/qwrdeIZu8O

— DAZN USA (@DAZN_USA) October 12, 2018

The original record belonged to Hector Lombard when he took out Jay Silva at Bellator 18 in 2010. Fighting in the bantamweight division, Kimbel, a Connecticut native, worked hard to to get to where he is. Nicknamed “The Savage”, he went through a grueling training camp in order to prove something to himself and Bellator. Eight months after his pro debut, The 21-year-old Kimbel believes he could be the face of the bantamweight division.

In regards to the fast result and how he is growing as a fighter, Kimbel had the following to say after the fight (via MMA Fighting):

“I’m not coming in here, looking how I am, because I’ve taken it easy. I’m pushing myself and I’m trying to be better, 1% better every single day.”

Kimbel is already gaining recognition as a result of his growing status. Before the fight, Conor McGregor FaceTimed him, offering him advice as he was looking to make weight. They say greatness recognizes greatness, so maybe “The Notorious One” can see the future of MMA in Kimbel.

As far as what is next for Kimbel? He has a desire to fight in either of Bellator’s fight cards in Hawaii this December. While he may have a long way to go before facing off for the Bantamweight Title, currently being held by Darrion Caldwell, Kimbel has a chance to quickly rise up the ranks.

Keep an eye on Mike Kimbel!