Another name has been added to the pool for Bellator Fighting Championships’ forthcoming eight-man light heavyweight tournament, as undefeated prospect Tim Carpenter will join the field in 2011.
Carpenter is a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and fights out of Balance Studios in Philadelphia. The 30-year-old battled his way to a perfect 5-0 record in local shows before making his Bellator debut in October, edging Jamal Patterson by split decision at Bellator 33. Carpenter holds half of his career victories by submission and is a veteran of Matrix Fights and Monte Cox’s Adrenaline MMA promotion. The 6-foot-3 submission specialist began his career in 2005, finishing his first three opponents before taking a two-year break from the sport in 2008. He rejoined the fight game in February and has earned three decision victories in 2010.
Season 4 will also reportedly feature a second heavyweight tournament to provide a No. 1 contender for Cole Konrad’s title. Last season, the promotion held three tournaments, with Konrad defeating Neil Grove to win the heavyweight strap at Bellator 32. That event also saw another champion crowned, as Zach Makovsky rode out a unanimous decision over Ed West to take the 135-pound belt. Finally, a women’s 115-pound champion was determined at Bellator 34, after Zoila Frausto edged the previously unbeaten Megumi Fujii by split decision.