Rick Hawn Uses improved Striking in Win over Wallhead
When Bellator announced the pairing of former Judo Olympian Rick Hawn and UK’s own Judo Black Belt, Jim Wallhead, many expected to see some great Judo on display. Those people would be wrong, as Rick Hawn used his improved and impressive boxing to beat Wallhead at Bellator 35, in a place many thought the Brit had an advantage.
Hawn, who place 9th in the 2004 Olympic Games, showed off his impressive Judo in his first fight with Bellator against LeVon Maynard that earned him a spot in the Season 4 Welterweight Tournament, hitting a shoulder throw before finishing the fight with aggressive ground and pound. This time Hawn wanted to showcase his striking and prove that his striking was better than Wallhead’s.
“He’s a good boxer, and I wanted everybody to know my boxing is getting better.” Hawn said.
Hawn did just that, showing a crisp jab and good footwork to land his strikes almost at will on Wallhead. Wallhead’s counter-strikes were avoided by Hawn as well, showing good head work to keep the damage to a minimum. While neither fighter was in any major trouble during the three round fight, Hawn remained the more active fighter throughout the contest.
The only takedown attempt in the fight was made by “Judo” Jim Wallhead, which was easily shrugged off by Hawn before he continued to stick to his game plan. The plan worked as Hawn took home the unanimous decision victory, 29-28, 29-28 and 30-27 on the judge’s scorecards.
Hawn’s Olympic Judo background helped the Team Sityodtong fighter keep the fight standing.
“Everyone knows I’m going to try to do the judo on them,” Hawn said. “He’s got a background in it, and I could feel it. He knew it was coming.
With the win, Hawn continues his perfect record in MMA, winning his first 10 fights since turning pro in 2009. The win also advances him in the tournament and Hawn will now turn his attention to former Bellator Welterweight Champion, Lyman Good.
The pair will square off at Bellator 39, April 2nd, at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.
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About the Author (Author Profile)
I was born in New York, but currently reside in PA. Have been following the sport since about 2000, ever since I picked up a few VHS' of the old UFC tournaments. I served on active duty in the Marines and currently serve in the PA Army National Guard. I've been doing sub-wrestling and BJJ for about 2 years and have studied Aikido for 3 years. I enjoy all forms of combat sports, but huge into BJJ tournaments and of course, MMA.Subscribe
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