Bellator 233: Former Oklahoma State wrestler Kyle Crutchmer wins Bellator debut

Oklahoma State wrestling alum Kyle Crutchmer won his Bellator debut in dominant fashion with an unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) over Robert Gidron at welterweight Friday night at WinStar World Casino in Thackerville, Oklahoma.

Kyle Crutchmer (5-0, 1-0 Bellator) utilized his wrestling background throughout the fight with several takedowns against Robert Gidron (4-4, 0-1), who also made his Bellator debut. Gidron stepped in for the fight on two days notice after Antonio Jones dropped out.

Crutchmer, a two-time NCAA All-American at OSU, pushed the pace early with a double-leg takedown attempt 30 seconds in, but Gidron stayed on his feet for about 1:30 before Crutchmer tripped him to the mat. Crutchmer then held him down for a minute before Gidron got to his feet. Crutchmer scored another takedown on an inside trip and finished the opening round on top.

Gidron came out aggressive in the second round, but Crutchmer stayed calm and slipped behind him then tripped him to the mat. After the official broke up a stalemate against the cage, Crutchmer dropped Gidron with a spinning backfist then rained down some hammer fists and took guard. Crutchmer continued to his wrestling and takedown Gidron repeatedly in the third round.