Ilima-Lei Macfarlane is known almost as much for her memorable arena entrances as she is for her world-class submission game. The undefeated Bellator flyweight champion has put together elaborate routines for her biggest fights, based on her indigenous Hawaiian heritage and usually including legendary coach Manolo Hernandez. Her entrances at Bellator events in Honolulu in front of adoring hometown crowds, in particular, have been among the most memorable moments in Bellator history. But the COVID-19 era has meant for major changes in the way mixed martial arts is presented. Bellator recently returned after an absence of nearly five months, and has followed the blueprint set by other combat sports promotions: empty arenas, social distancing, and a minimal of histrionics. So that means big productions are out for now, but Macfarlane (11-0 MMA, 10-0 BMMA) recently let MMA Junkie Radio in on a little secret: She doesn’t mind
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Why Bellator champ Ilima-Lei Macfarlane is ‘stoked’ for empty-arena fights – MMA Junkie