Joe Warren earned his spot in the season nine bantamweight tournament as he defeated Nick Kirk by submission in the second round in the main event of Bellator 101. 
The fight opened with Warren closing the distance and eating a right hook. Warren responded with throwing a flying knee to the chest and forcing him up against the cage, throwing knees to the body. Kirk worked his way off and poped Warren sending him off balance.
Warren continues the rest of the round moving forward with flying needs and takedown attempts; finally securing one with 1 minute left in the round, maintaining top position and delivering shots.
The second round started when the last ended with Warren getting a takedown in the first 10 seconds. Working into half guard and staying busy, Warren was in total control. Transitioning to a crucifix, only to have Kirik work is way out. Warren then transitioned to an inverted triangle/armbar forcing Kirk to tap at 3:03 mark of the second round.
Warren (9-3) will now face Travis Marx in the bantamweight tournament final later this year and the winner will secure a title shot in the Bellator bantamweight division.
Bellator 101 Results:
Joe Warren def. Nick Kirk via submission (armbar) – Round 2, 3:03
Alexander Sarnavskiy def. Marcus Davis via submission (rear-naked choke) – Round 1, 1:40
Ricardo Tirloni def. Rich Clementi via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-27, 30-27)
Will Brooks def. John Alessio via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-27, 30-25)
Saad Awad def. Martin Stapleton via submission (rear-naked choke) – Round 1, 3:46
Nathan Coy def. Andy Uhrich via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Marcin Held def. Ryan Healy via KO (strikes) – Round 1, 1:12
Dave Vitkay def. Tyson Jefferies via sub (rear-naked choke) – Round 3, 3:07
Brent Primus def. Scott Thometz via submission (rear-naked choke) – Round 1, 3:48
Austin Springer def. Zach Skinner via unanimous decision (30-26, 29-28, 29-28)
Peter Aspinwall def. Jeremiah Riggs via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)