“The Wolf” Darrion Caldwell Set For Bellator 143

Standing 5’10” and weighing 135 pounds, Darrion “The Wolf” Caldwell is an undefeated fighter in the Bellator MMA series.  Caldwell’s fighting style is deeply entrenched in wresting as he was an outstanding wrestler for NC State.  His overall record at NC State was 109-13, with 58 of those victories coming by way of pinning his challenger.

Not only did Caldwell win many matches as a member of the Wolfpack, but he was the NCAA Champion in 2009, upsetting heavy favorite Brent Metcalf from the University of Iowa.  Darrion Caldwell was not only an excellent wrestler, but was also a gifted athlete on the gridiron in high school, twice being named to the all-region team in New Jersey. However, as he finished his high school career with a record of 146-4 on the wrestling mat it was obvious that he was destined for greatness on the mat.

Not only did Caldwell reach the top of the mount by winning the NCAA Championship, but he had to deal with adversity, enduring a string of shoulder injuries while at NC State.  Darrion was forced to redshirt during the 2009-2010 season due to having shoulder surgery and had his collegiant career end when he had to withdraw from the 2011 NCAA Championships in the second round because of another shoulder injury.

With his wrestling career finished Caldwell tried making the 2012 USA Olympics team, but fell short of his bid due to being out of form due to shoulder surgeries and rehab.  Once finished, Darrion decided to try mixed martial arts and seems to be fitting in nicely.  Thus far, “The Wolf” is 7-0 and will be fighting in the upcoming Bellator 143 in Texas on September 25th, and he will be facing Shawn Bunch, who is 4-1.

Many have dubbed Caldwell as the next big time prize fighter in the Bellator MMA series.  Darrion has stated that he wants to take home the MMA championship before the year is over.  NC State fans will have to tune into Spike TV on the 25th to catch Caldwell in action as he aims to stay unbeaten.

Checkout this video of Caldwell as he shocked the wrestling world, claiming the NCAA Title in 2009 as a member of the Wolfpack:

Here’s the link to Caldwell’s MMA victory over Joe Pingitore & Rafael Silva