On December 20, 2014, Eric received his black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu from Travis Lutter.
World Extreme Cagefighting
Schambari signed for the WEC and made his debut on the undercard of WEC 27 against Art Santore. In a close fight, Schambari took the unanimous decision (30–27, 30–27 and 29–28), which was suggested to be due to Schambari's superior cardio and slight advantage in damage caused.[2]
He then fought Logan Clark at WEC 29. Schambari once again took the unanimous decision (all three judges scoring the bout 29–28). However, this decision was viewed as slightly controversial considering that Clark was able to do more damage from the bottom with up-kicks, in addition to locking in a gogoplata and an omoplata.[3]
Schambari suffered his first career defeat, losing to Bryan Baker via split decision at WEC 31 in December 2007.
Soon after, Schambari was injured in training and suffered an allergic reaction to medication that nearly cost him his life and career. Later, he returned to training and competition against the advice of his doctors.[4]
This injury, combined with the dissolution of the middleweight division in the WEC, after its purchase by the UFC, led to his release. Schambari then fought in smaller promotions, defeating four fighters (three via first round submission and one via majority decision). The latter of these victories saw Schambari headline an event, competing against Will Espich in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This fight saw Schambari win via submission (arm-triangle choke).[5]
Bellator Fighting Championship
Schambari then signed for Bellator and entered into their Middleweight tournament.[4] There, he was joined by the only man to have defeated him at this point in his career, Bryan Baker.
In the first round of the tournament, Schambari faced The Ultimate Fighter 7 competitor Luke Zachrich. Schambari was far more effective and after 3:34 of the first round, Schambari locked in an arm-triangle choke and forced the tap-out.[6]
This advanced Schambari into the semi-finals of the tournament where he would have a rematch with Bryan Baker. This fight took place at Bellator 20 and Baker was again the winner, this time via triangle choke at 2:29 of the first round. Schambari was successful with an early takedown, however, Baker worked well from his back and managed to secure the submission. This eliminated Schambari from the tournament.[7]
Returning in Bellator's third season in September 2010 at Bellator 28, Schambari faced the veteran Matt Horwich. Schambari won the fight via split decision after utilizing an effective jab-and-run strategy.[8]
