Bellator 274 Recap: Storley Triumphs, Koreshkov’s Stunning…
Bellator 274 took place on February 19, 2022, at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. Logan Storley defeated Neiman Gracie in the promotion’s first scheduled five-round non-title main event. Andrey Koreshkov’s 38-second stoppage supplied the co-main highlight, while Adam Piccolotti and Davion Franklin also earned victories.
Storley Outstrikes Gracie
In the main event, Logan Storley outstruck Neiman Gracie to claim a unanimous decision victory. The fight was a departure from expectations, as it featured almost no grappling despite the fighters‘ backgrounds in wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Storley used his wrestling in reverse, keeping Gracie on the back foot with quick left hooks and overhand rights. Gracie managed to fight back with a crisp jab and increased volume, but it was not enough to secure the win.
Koreshkov’s Spinning Back Kick
The co-main event saw former welterweight champion Andrey Koreshkov deliver a stunning spinning back kick to Chance Rencountre, leading to a 38-second stoppage. The kick landed on Rencountre’s rib cage, sending him to the ground and allowing Koreshkov to seal the deal with follow-up punches.
Other Notable Fights
In a featured bout on the main card, Adam Piccolotti and Georgi Karakhanyan fought a 15-minute bout largely on the mat. Piccolotti’s superior grappling skills were on display as he secured takedowns and gained back control for prolonged portions of the fight, leading to a unanimous decision victory.
The opening main card bout saw top-10 heavyweights Davion Franklin and Said Sowma battle it out over 15 minutes. Despite both men missing as much as they landed, Franklin’s power made the difference, earning him a split decision victory.
Event Perspective
Storley’s full-distance win and Koreshkov’s rapid finish gave the welterweight division two very different successful performances. Piccolotti’s grappling-based decision and Franklin’s split decision added supporting results. The card demonstrated how experienced grapplers can still produce a striking-led main event when their wrestling and submission threats shape each other’s choices.
Why the Event Mattered
The five-round format was an important part of the main event, extending the test beyond the usual three-round non-title distance. Storley needed sustained effectiveness, while Koreshkov required only one decisive sequence. Both wins were contender results rather than championship victories.
Sources
MMA Fighting: Bellator 274 results; Event results record.
Article Tags
Bellator, Bellator 274, Mixed Martial Arts
