Pros react after A.J. McKee submits Patricio Freire at Bellator 263

By Chris Taylor - July 31, 2021

Tonight’s Bellator 263 event was headlined by the tournament finals of the promotions 145-pound grand prix as Patricio Freire squared off with A.J. McKee.

A.J. McKee, Bellator 263

Patricio Freire (32-5 MMA), Bellator’s reigning featherweight champion, had entered tonight’s main event on a seven-fight winning streak, his latest being a first round submission victory over Emmanuel Sanchez in the featherweight grand prix semifinals.

Meanwhile, A.J. McKee (18-0 MMA) was looking to capture Bellator gold while keeping his perfect record intact this evening. The ‘Mercenary‘ had earned his spot in the featherweight grand prix finals by submitting Darrion Caldwell in the first round of their fight at Bellator 253.

Bellator 263, Patricio Freire, A.J. McKee,

Bellator 263 main event

Tonight’s Bellator 263 main event did not last long. A.J. McKee was able to get off to a quick start by landing some good low kicks. He then landed a kick to the body which appeared to hurt Patricio Freire. The challenger proceeded to back the champion up against the cage and lock in a guillotine choke. Shortly after tightening his grip, the referee stepped in to call a stop to the contest.

Official Bellator 263 Result: A.J. McKee def. Patricio Freire via submission in Round 1

Check out how the pros reacted to Freire vs. McKee below:

Post-fight reactions to A.J. McKee defeating Patricio Freire:

Who would you like to see A.J. McKee fight next following his submission victory over Patricio Freire this evening at Bellator 263? Share your thoughts in the comment section PENN Nation!