Ilima-Lei Macfarlane fought back tears to score a third round submission victory over Valerie Letourneau in defense of her Bellator flyweight title Saturday night.
Macfarlane, a native of Hawaii, delighted the home crowd with her performance in the main event of Bellator 213.
The 28-year-old has now defended her title twice this year, with both victories coming in the third round via submission. She is a perfect 9-0 in her career with four consecutive submission wins.
In the co-main event, Lyoto Machida earned a split decision over Rafael Carvalho in his promotional debut.
Neiman Gracie advanced in the Bellator Welterweight Grand Prix with a fourth round submission vs. Ed Ruth, Liam McGeary finished Muhammad “King Mo” Lawal and Naiona Dung bested Kona Oliveira.
Complete Bellator 213 results are below:
Ilima-Lei Macfarlane def. Valerie Letourneau via submission (triangle choke) at 3:19 of Round 3 to remain Bellator flyweight champion
Lyoto Machida def. Rafael Carvalho via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Neiman Gracie def. Ed Ruth via submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:15 of Round 4 to advance in the Bellator Welterweight Grand Prix
Liam McGeary def. Muhammad “King Mo” Lawal via TKO (strikes) at :53 of Round 3
Nainoa Dung def. Kona Oliveira via TKO (strikes) at 2:05 of Round 3
Dustin Barca def. Isaac Hopps via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 30-27)
Maki Pitolo def. Chris Cisneros via submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:40 of Round 3
Kai Kamaka III def. Shojin Miki via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Canaan Kawaihae def. Timothy Teves via unanimous decision