GRIMSBY cage fighter James Bateman continued his rise up the Mixed Martial Arts ladder with his fourth professional victory as the sport made its debut in Cleethorpes.

The 25-year-old welterweight from Neal Lofts' Fight Ministry gym in Humberston beat Belgium's Damien Berteaux by technical knockout inside the first round at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre.

It was the Grimsby man's fifth professional fight following his initial impact on the MMA scene last year – when he represented Great Britain in the UFC TV series The Ultimate Fighter.

The British Cage Fighting-promoted event gave Cleethorpes its first taste of live MMA action, with Bateman's bout the last of 15 fights.

Bateman received a rapturous welcome on entering the cage, which was sponsored by Quayside Distribution.

Bertraux – whose record included three wins and two loses – quickly took the fight to ground, seemingly adhering to a game plan.

The shooto fighter – a well-versed wrestler – tested Bateman's defence against the cage.

But as Bertraux switched from a double to a one-leg set-up, Bateman countered with some strikes to the head which distracted the Belgian and allowed the Grimsby man an advantage in the clinch.

With a small trip the home fighter went for the takedown but his opponent escaped two attempts by Bateman to mount.

The Fight Ministry player maintained control and landed a big left which opened a cut while using a knee to keep Bertraux pinned to the canvas.

Bateman then secured the mount and after a big combination of punches the referee stepped in to award him the victory by technical knockout after two minutes and 40 seconds.

Grimsby's Louie Chapman was also victorious on the pro card, defeating Nathan 'chicken' Thompson in an exciting Under-70kg lightweight clash.

Chapman was keen to impress his home crowd after victory against the experienced Jay Gilby in 26 seconds on his professional debut in Birmingham back in May.

The 23-year-old was forced on the defence when Thompson, known for his jujitsu skills, pulled him down to the canvas with a leg wrap.

But Chapman – the more pro-active throughout – achieved top position which Thompson escaped – only to be snared in a triangle choke hold, which forced him to tap halfway into the first round.