Category Archives: Bellator

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

BELLATOR 276 OFFICIALLY SET FOR SATURDAY, MARCH 12 IN ST. LOUIS

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LOS ANGELES – A future shot at the BELLATOR Featherweight World Championship will be on the line when No. 2-ranked Adam Borics (17-1) meets a man also ranked No. 2 in the Official BELLATOR Rankings, Mads Burnell (16-3) in the main event of BELLATOR 276 on Saturday, March 12 at The Family Arena in St. Louis.
 
In the co-main event former BELLATOR Light Heavyweight Champion and No. 2-ranked Phil Davis (23-6) will return to action and open his 2022 campaign against No. 4-ranked Julius Anglickas (10-2), who most recently challenged for the 205-pound title. The main card will also see a pair of skilled lightweights compete, when undefeated Jay-Jay Wilson (8-0) moves up in weight to meet Dagestan’s Gadzhi Rabadanov (16-4-2).
 
SHOWTIME will televise the BELLATOR MMA 276: Borics vs. Burnell main card live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT Additionally, the thrilling preliminary fights will stream live on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.
 
Tickets for BELLATOR MMA 276: Borics vs. Burnell will go on sale this Friday, Feb. 11 at both Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com, with a special presale taking place the day prior.
 
A BELLATOR MMA 276 preliminary battle between two heavy-handed light heavyweights No. 8-ranked Alex “Easy” Polizzi (9-1) and Team Pitbull’s Jose “Gugu” Augusto (7-3, 1 NC) is also official. Additional contests will be announced shortly.
 
A multi-faceted fighter with tremendous success in two different combat sports, Adam Borics knocked out all 25 of his amateur opponents en route to compiling 10-0 (kickboxing) and 15-0 (MMA) records. Holding a three-inch height advantage and tied with upcoming opponent Mads Burnell as the No. 2 featherweight in the BELLATOR rankings, the Ft. Lauderdale featherweight commenced his pro career with 14 straight triumphs, including ten by KO or submission.
 
Much like his upcoming foe, the nine-time BELLATOR veteran, armed with an 8-1 promotional record, prefers to dispose of his counterparts quickly as evidenced by ten of his 18 career wins culminating in knockout or submission. Additionally, the former Hungarian Fight Championship Featherweight kingpin has fought only 41 rounds since turning professional in Aug. 2014, an average of only 2.3 per outing.
 
Nicknamed “The Kid,” the former Thai and Hungarian Thai Boxing World Titleholder, who lives by the adage “Practice laborious, battle easy,” and holds knockout wins over former BELLATOR featherweight champion Pat Curran and ferocious featherweight Aaron Pico. Born in Budapest, Hungary, the Sanford MMA fighter, who signed a multi-fight extension with BELLATOR in January 2021, launched his promotional campaign by submitting Anthony Taylor via rear-naked choke in April 2017. After dropping his lone BELLATOR bout at the hands of former bantamweight champion Darrion Caldwell in the quarterfinals of the BELLATOR MMA Featherweight Grand Prix, Borics has outpointed his last three opponents under the company banner. 
 
Currently riding a seven-bout winning streak, Mads Burnell prefers to dispatch of his opponents early. In 19 career fights, the submission specialist has stopped more than half of his adversaries (10), including eight in the opening round. Additionally, the Copenhagen, Denmark, native has not fought past three rounds in his professional career, while averaging a mere two per contest. The Arte Suave Copenhagen product, who will turn 28 less than one week prior to his fourth consecutive promotional appearance at BELLATOR MMA 276, opened his vocation by defeating his initial five opponents, including three via submission.
 
A first-degree black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Burnell captured the Cage Warriors featherweight title by submitting then-champion Dean Trueman by Japanese necktie at 3:04 of the second round on June 29, 2019. Two months after signing with the company, the ferocious featherweight took the mixed martial arts world by storm when he recorded his lone career knockout and floored Darko Banovic at 3:13 of the first stanza in his promotional debut at BELLATOR MMA 248 on Oct. 10, 2020, in Paris, France.
 
Following a second-round destruction of “The Ultimate Fighter: Team McGregor vs. Team Faber” standout Saul Rogers via rear-naked choke at BELLATOR MMA 257, the three-time BELLATOR MMA veteran returned to the cage less than four months later and upset Emmanuel Sanchez via three-round unanimous decision (29-28 and 30-27 twice) in a non-stop battle at BELLATOR MMA 263 on July 31, 2021, in Los Angeles. A former European No-Gi champion, Burnell hopes to keep his undefeated BELLATOR record intact when he challenges fellow No. 2-ranked Adam Borics.
 
BELLATOR MMA 276: Borics vs. Burnell Main Card:
Saturday, March 12 – live on SHOWTIME
9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT 
 
Featherweight Main Event: #2-Adam Borics (17-1) vs. #2-Mads Burnell (16-3)
Light Heavyweight Co-Main Event: #2-Phil Davis (23-6) vs. #4-Julius Anglickas (10-2)
Lightweight Bout: Jay-Jay Wilson (8-0) vs. Gadzhi Rabadanov (16-4-2)
 
PRELIMINARY CARD: 
BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel | Pluto TV
6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT
 
Light Heavyweight Bout: #8-Alex Polizzi (9-1) vs. Jose Augusto (7-3, 1 NC)
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

BELLATOR’S TOP FOUR WELTERWEIGHTS CONVERGE ON LONDON’S OVO ARENA WEMBLEY FRIDAY, MAY 13

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LONDON, UK – Today, BELLATOR MMA has added several explosive fights to BELLATOR LONDON: Amosov vs. MVP, taking place at OVO Arena Wembley – formerly known as The SSE Arena, Wembley – in London on Friday, May 13. 
 
With an electric atmosphere expected in London, fans will be treated to a mouthwatering welterweight co-feature as former champion and No. 2-ranked Douglas Lima (32-10) takes on No. 3-ranked Jason Jackson (15-4). British fan favorite Luke Trainer (5-0) will be looking to make the most of his home crowd advantage when he faces Simon Biyong (7-2) in a light heavyweight match up packed with knockout potential.
 
The promotion’s exciting return to OVO Arena Wembley for BELLATOR LONDON: Amosov vs. MVP, sees home favorite No. 1-ranked Michael “Venom” Page (20-1) look to steal the world welterweight title from the undefeated champion, Yaroslav Amosov. The Ukrainian, who is 26-0, will be aiming to spoil the party in MVP’s own backyard, and deny the Londoner a slice of MMA history in the process.
 
Also confirmed previously for what is already shaping up to be an incredible card is a women’s flyweight feature fight between No. 3-ranked Denise Kielholtz (6-3) and No. 4-ranked Kana Watanabe (10-1-1) and a featherweight feature fight between No. 8-ranked Daniel Weichel (41-13) and Robert Whiteford (16-4).  
 
BELLATOR LONDON: Amosov vs. MVP will be broadcast live in the UK at 9 p.m. GMT/4 p.m. ET on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer, following last week’s announcement of the major UK broadcast deal with the BBC. SHOWTIME will televise the fight live in America.
 
Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased online from axs.com/uk  and Bellator.com.
 
Douglas Lima is also set for another visit to the English capital, following his headline bout against MVP last year, with a return to winning form on his mind in familiar territory. He takes on Jason Jackson in what is set to be another exhilarating clash. Lima is one of the most experienced fighters on the Bellator roster and will be hoping to add to his 32 career victories. Standing in his way is the formidable challenge of “The Ass Kicking Machine” who is performing true to his nickname with five straight victories. Jackson’s most recent win was a convincing unanimous decision triumph over Paul Daley at Bellator 260 and he’ll be hoping to continue his strong professional record.
 
After a devastating knockout victory over Yanick Bahati in his biggest test to date at Bellator 267 in London last year, Luke Trainer will be looking to extend his unbeaten professional record to six fights as “The Gent” takes on Simon Biyong. With both fighters possessing genuine knockout power, the Cameroonian will hope to get on top in the striking exchanges and silence a partisan crowd. Trainer returns to home turf looking to continue his journey as one of Bellator’s fastest rising stars after an explosive performance last time out.
 
In addition to the aforementioned bouts, Londoner Alfie “The Axe Man” Davis (14-4) is also set to make a homecoming when he takes on fellow countryman Tim “The Experiment” Wilde (14-4) in a lightweight preliminary bout. The pair were due to meet in 2020 but will clash in front of their home faithful in a domestic clash that is certain to grab the attention of English fight fans. “The Axe Man” will be searching for the form that saw him go four fights undefeated prior to a unanimous decision loss last time out at Bellator 259. Wilde will not be in accommodating mood however, as he aims to string together three consecutive victories for the first time in his Bellator career.
 
There is another English talent on show in the women’s flyweight division as former title challenger Kate Jackson (11-5-1) takes on Greek athlete Elina “Gunner” Kallionidou (8-4). Jackson will be backed all the way by the London crowd but faces an opponent who was victorious on her last appearance in Wembley with a first-round stoppage victory at Bellator 267.
 
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UPDATED BELLATOR LONDON: AMOSOV VS. MVP MAIN CARD:
SHOWTIME (U.S.) / BBC Three & BBC iPlayer (U.K.) / Virgin Media Two & Virgin Media Sport (IRELAND)
Friday, May 13, 9 p.m. GMT/4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT
 
Welterweight World Title Main Event: #C-Yaroslav Amosov (26-0) vs. #1-Michael Page (20-1)
Welterweight Bout: #2-Douglas Lima (32-10) vs. #3-Jason Jackson (15-4)
Women’s Flyweight Bout: #3-Denise Kielholtz (6-3) vs. #4-Kana Watanabe (10-1-1)
Light Heavyweight Bout: Luke Trainer (5-0)vs. Simon Biyong (7-2)
 
UPDATED BELLATOR LONDON: AMOSOV VS. MVP PRELIMINARY CARD:
BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel | Pluto TV (US)
BBC iPlayer (UK)
Friday, May 13, 5:30 p.m. GMT/12:30 p.m. ET/9:30 a.m. PT
 
Featherweight Bout: #8-Daniel Weichel (41-13) vs. Robert Whiteford (16-4)
Lightweight Bout: Alfie Davis (14-4) vs. Tim Wilde (14-4)
Flyweight Bout: Kate Jackson (11-5-1) vs. Elina Kallionidou (8-4)
 
*Card subject to change.
 
Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.
 
Updated schedule of BELLATOR events
Sat., Feb. 19 / / BELLATOR 274: Gracie vs. Storley // Mohegan Sun Arena // Uncasville, Conn.
Fri. Feb. 25 // BELLATOR 275: Mousasi vs. Vanderford // 3Arena // Dublin, IRE
Fri. May 6 // BELLATOR PARIS: Bader vs. Kongo 2 // Accor Arena // Paris, FRA
Fri. May 13 // BELLATOR LONDON: Amosov vs. MVP // The OVO Arena Wembley // London
 
BBC, Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

BELLATOR MMA ANNOUNCES MAJOR NEW UK BROADCAST DEAL WITH BBC

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New deal sees 2022 European events air live on new broadcast channel BBC Three with USA events airing live on BBC iPlayer

London UK – Leading mixed martial arts promotion BELLATOR MMA has today announced an exciting new partnership with BBC Sport which will see events emanating from outside America air live on the newly launched BBC Three channel and BBC iPlayer.

The ground-breaking broadcast deal will see BELLATOR MMA become one of the staples of the new channel. BBC Three and BBC iPlayer will have live broadcast of BELLATOR events taking place outside of the USA throughout 2022 whilst the promotion’s USA events will be available to watch live on BBC iPlayer.

The deal represents a commitment from the BBC to continue showing all BELLATOR events live across its platforms in 2022 following the promotion’s hugely successful partnership with the broadcaster in 2021. BELLATOR news, features and results will also be regularly featured across BBC Sport’s digital platforms such as the BBC Sport website and app.

BELLATOR MMA is home to some of the most entertaining and skilled mixed martial artists in the world including Ryan Bader, AJ McKee, Gegard Mousasi, Cris “Cyborg,” Yaroslav Amosov and London’s own Michael “Venom” Page.

The BBC Three tie-up will kick off in style with a triple-header of exciting European cards, starting with BELLATOR’s highly anticipated return to Dublin’s 3Arena on Friday, February 25. The card features a middleweight title fight between MMA legend Gegard Mousasi and the undefeated Austin Vanderford.

Following Dublin is another huge night in Paris on Friday, May 6, as BELLATOR Heavyweight World Champion Ryan Bader defends his title against iconic French mixed martial artist Cheick Kongo. The promotion made history in the capital in 2020 by becoming the first major MMA promotion to hold an event in France, which was also the first time an MMA event was shown live on the BBC.

Rounding out the first three massive European events live on BBC Three will be BELLATOR’s return to London on Friday, May 13, with another world title fight topping the bill. After an electric London show in October, the UK’s Michael “Venom” Page takes on the undefeated welterweight champion, Yaroslav Amosov, as he aims to become just the second British BELLATOR MMA champion.

Head of BELLATOR MMA Europe, David Green, said: “We’re thrilled to be renewing our relationship with the BBC and to be on BBC Three. We’ve enjoyed an incredibly successful first year partnered with the broadcaster and we’re looking forward to reaching millions more UK homes as part of an exciting new channel. We’ve worked incredibly hard to bring live action from this amazing sport to as many people in the UK as possible, and this is yet another landmark step on that journey.”

President of BELLATOR MMA, Scott Coker, added: “I’m so excited by the continued growth of MMA in the UK and delighted that we’ll continue to enjoy the support of the BBC by bringing our events live to existing British fans and new audiences in 2022.”

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About BELLATOR

BELLATOR MMA is a leading global mixed martial arts organization featuring many of the best fighters in the world. Under the direction of veteran fight promoter Scott Coker, BELLATOR events take place in major cities worldwide and can be seen on television in over 160 countries to an available audience of over one billion people. In the United States, BELLATOR can be seen on SHOWTIME. BELLATOR is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, live event orchestration, fighter development/relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity and commission relations. BELLATOR is based in Hollywood, Calif. and owned by entertainment giant ViacomCBS, home to the world’s premier entertainment brands that connect with audiences through compelling content across television, motion picture, online and mobile platforms.

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

Complete Results & Photos for BELLATOR MMA 273: Bader vs. Moldavsky

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Complete Fight Night Photos Here – Please Credit: BELLATOR MMA
  
BELLATOR MMA 273: BADER VS. MOLDAVSKY MAIN CARD:
C-Ryan Bader (29-7, 1 NC) defeated IC-Valentin Moldavsky (11-2) via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 48-47)
 
Ryan Bader defends his heavyweight title: ““Obviously, it was a really close fight and at the end there I’m like man that’s a toss up. I felt like I did more damage but it felt so good considering the last fight was a fight I lost. But it was a back and forth, even fight the whole five rounds. It’s just anticlimactic to go out there and have a exciting heavyweight championship five-rounder with a tough dude in Arizona. I wanted that bad! 

I’m never too confident, going to judges you know. It’s the first time in my life that I was hoping that they weren’t scoring for the wrestling. I was rocking him pretty good with my punches and I was seeing everything clearly. I underestimated his clenching, his body lock, he kept stepping in front of me with this weird move and he’s stronger than I thought. I’ve never been picked up like before…but I just told myself to keep getting up and then keep with the strikes. At the end there he was just holding on and I landed 20 unanswered elbows to his head. Those can’t be ignored and so when he went to the score cards, I said who knows now…”

#6-Benson Henderson (29-11) defeated #7-Islam Mamedov (20-2-1) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
 
Benson Henderson following the win in front of his hometown: “Fighting in front of my adopted hometown Phoenix, AZ, it’s amazing. Last time I didn’t give Arizona a very good show. This time, I thought I had a better performance so win or lose I knew that I could live with that. Just having a good performance, not a great performance but having a good performance, as opposed to having a bad performance, win or lose you always feel good after great performances. We’re seeking perfection. If you write a book, all these journalists, all these moviemakers, they want to make them part of a movie then make an amazing movie. If you want to, then you have to do your absolute best out there and that’s why I’m always after a better performance.”
“Tonight, getting my hand raised is awesome. This was the first time I fought in front of my sons, my two oldest sons. My 6 year-old and my 4-year-old. Tonight was a great night, but they’re not all great nights so I’m learning to definitely appreciate the good ones when I have them.”

“I felt that I did enough to deserve to get my hand raised, but you just never know. Like Burt Watson always says, if you leave it to the judges, they’re going to make you cry. He is absolutely right. So, I definitely don’t ever want to leave it to the judges. When someone says split decision I’m like oh no, my boys are in the ring…but it was a good night, so I was thankful for it.”

Henry Corrales (20-6) defeated Aiden Lee (10-6) via unanimous technical decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27) – (accidental eye poke)
 
Henry Corrales following his victory: “That’s definitely not the way I wanted to end it here in Phoenix. The fans deserve more and that’s nothing against him, it’s just kind of a late finish and this was the final fight on my contract. This was my 15th fight with BELLATOR and my 20th win, so there’s a lot riding on this fight. I needed to go out there and put on a good performance…I tried.”
 
I didn’t feel like I really poked him to be honest with you and the replay was showing that it just didn’t look as serious as he was playing it off to be, but it’s the eye, so only he knows how much that hurt. He was super upset after and I was like hey big dog I didn’t poke you on purpose. I mean this is a fist fight! But, he was walking away from the cage after and he was acting disappointed the the fight was stopped but while the fight was going on he wasn’t really fighting. His demeanor was off and he was kind of whimpering on shots and it’s like dude you weren’t really going, you were just acting.”
 
Sabah Homasi (16-10) defeated Jaleel Willis (15-4) via submission (arm-triangle) at 1:42 of round one
 
Sabah Homasi following his submission win: “It’s one of the kicks I threw I just kicked hard man. I expect this after every fight but just a little swelling. It’s the same stuff after every fight man from all my kicks.”
 
“You know I just I take whatever they give me. I had his back, I thought I was going to get the rear naked. I don’t like to exert too much energy on something, so if I don’t have it I’m not going to force it. I’m going to take something that’s there, so I let it go and I set up a little trap. It’s something that I’ve transitioned with very well from the back to that trick, so it was there and I took it.”
 
“He was saying something to me earlier and if he’s saying something to me he should say it like a man. Say it with your damn chest, don’t whisper it. I forgot what he said, but I told him he was going to feel real power tonight and that was it and then obviously quick fight. I’m healthy, I’m in great shape, going to get back in the gym and whenever BELLATOR lets me know I’ll give my manager the green light.”
 
PRELIMINARY CARD: 
Enrique Barzola (17-5-2) defeated Darrion Caldwell (15-6) via TKO (strikes) at 3:01 of round three
Chris Gonzalez (7-1) defeated Saad Awad (24-14, 1 NC) via KO (punches) at :36 of round one
Dalton Rosta (6-0) defeated Duane Johnson (6-3) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Nikita Mikhailov (9-1) defeated Blaine Shutt (8-6) via TKO (punches) at 3:23 of round three
Lucas Brennan (6-0) defeated Ben Lugo (5-5) via submission (arm-triangle choke) at 2:27 of round one
Sullivan Cauley (3-0) defeated Ben Parrish (5-2) via TKO (punches) at 4:35 of round one
 
Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.
 
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Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

BELLATOR MMA SET FOR RETURN TO PARIS ON FRIDAY, MAY 6 WITH MASSIVE HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOUT

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UNDISPUTED CHAMP RYAN BADER WILL DEFEND TITLE IN REMATCH AGAINST FRENCH MMA LEGEND CHEICK KONGO DURING MAIN EVENT AT ACCOR ARENA
 
PARIS, FRANCE – Fresh off unifying the BELLATOR MMA Heavyweight Championship, Ryan Bader (29-7, 1 NC) will defend his crown in enemy territory against hometown favorite and No. 2-ranked heavyweight Cheick Kongo (31-11-2, 1 NC) on Friday, May 6. Paris’ Accor Arena is set to play host to the world title fight, which will headline the BELLATOR PARIS: Bader vs. Kongo event.
 
Tickets for BELLATOR PARIS: Bader vs. Kongo 2 are on sale now at accorarena.com and bellator.fr.
 
Broadcast details and additional fights, including a plethora of French talent, are set to be announced in the coming weeks. Follow Bellator France on Instagram @BellatorFrance and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BellatorFrance/.
 
With mixed martial arts becoming legalized in France in 2020, BELLATOR became the first promotion to hold a major MMA event with BELLATOR 248 in October of that year. The success of that historic card propelled BELLATOR to make a return to “The City of Lights.”
 
“Bringing BELLATOR to France in 2020 was one of the highlights of my career, and I knew that it was the start of a long run of big events in Paris,” BELLATOR President Scott Coker said. “Here we are ready for our second trip to France and this time we are bringing a heavyweight world title rematch featuring arguably the most recognizable French mixed martial artist in our sports history. It’s personally important to me to help grow the sport in France and give these athletes a chance to perform on a large stage.”
 
The main event is a rematch from BELLATOR 226 in 2019 that ended in a controversial no-contest following a disputed eye poke, creating heightened tension between the two fight camps that will surely boil over on May 6.
 
Successfully returning to the 265-pound division following an impressive run in the BELLATOR Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix, Ryan Bader (29-7) is fresh off a dominant BELLATOR MMA World Heavyweight Title defense over interim champion Valentin Moldavsky in front of a partisan Phoenix crowd on Jan. 29. A former two-division champion, Bader has defeated nine of his last 12 opponents at both heavyweight and light heavyweight. Fighting out of Chandler, Ariz., the former two-time NCAA Division I All-American wrestler from Arizona State University opened his professional career by winning season eight of “The Ultimate Fighter.” Never one to shy away from an opponent, Bader has had nothing but high-profile bouts since signing with BELLATOR MMA in 2017, defeating Fedor Emelianenko, King Mo, Matt Mitrione, Linton Vassell, Lyoto Machida, and Phil Davis. In his initial 265-pound title defense against Kongo, Bader controlled the action before referee Mike Beltran stopped the contest due to an accidental poke to Kongo’s left eye at 3:52 of the opening round.
 
Snatching victory from the jaws of defeat at BELLATOR MMA 265, longtime BELLATOR veteran Cheick Kongo (31-11-2, 1 NC) was on the verge of being stopped by Sergei Kharitonov in the initial stanza during his last outing on Aug. 20, 2021. After hitting the canvas and becoming badly hurt, the exhausted Parisian rallied to secure a tap out via rear-naked choke with one second remaining in round two. Ten months prior to the dramatic triumph, the former UFC standout headlined the first major MMA event in his native France as he took on Tim Johnson in a rematch on Oct. 10, 2020. Since signing with the Scott Coker-led company in late August 2013, the promotional mainstay, who currently sports a 13-3 promotional record with one no contest, holds the records for most fights (17) and wins (12) in BELLATOR heavyweight history. Just three years shy of 50, Kongo has proven that age is just a number as he continues to challenge the best that BELLATOR MMA has to offer.
 
BELLATOR PARIS: BADER VS. KONGO 2 MAIN CARD:
 
Heavyweight World Title Main Event: #C-Ryan Bader (29-7, 1 NC) vs. #2-Cheick Kongo (31-11-2, 1 NC)
 
*Card subject to change.
 
Please visit www.Bellator.fr and Bellator.com for additional information.
 
Updated schedule of BELLATOR events
Sat., Feb. 19 / / BELLATOR 274: Gracie vs. Storley // Mohegan Sun Area // Uncasville, Conn.
Fri. Feb. 25 // BELLATOR 275: Mousasi vs. Vanderford // 3Arena // Dublin, IRE
Fri. May 6 // BELLATOR PARIS: Bader vs. Kongo 2 // Accor Arena // Paris, FRA
Fri. May 13 // BELLATOR LONDON: Amosov vs. MVP // The SSE Arena, Wembley // London
 
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Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

SEVERAL GREAT FIGHTS ADDED TO BELLATOR 275: MOUSASI VS. VANDERFORD IN DUBLIN ON FEB. 25

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NO. 5 RANKED SINEAD KAVANAGH MEETS NO. 4 RANKED LEAH ‘THE CURSE’ MCCOURT IN HUGE FEATHERWEIGHT CONTEST AT BELLATOR 275: MOUSASI VS. VANDERFORD

DUBLIN’S 3ARENA PLAYS HOST TO MASSIVE CARD ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25

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DUBLIN – Leading mixed martial arts promotion BELLATOR MMA has today added a number of explosive fights to BELLATOR 275: Mousasi vs. Vanderford, taking place at the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland, on Friday, February 25. 

In what is set to be the biggest Irish female fight ever, a women’s featherweight bout between Northern Ireland’s Leah McCourt (6-1) and Ireland’s most-recent title challenger Sinead Kavanagh (7-5) is set to light up the main card. Plus, a bantamweight main card attraction between home favorite Brian Moore (14-8), whotakes on No. 9 ranked Jornel Lugo (7-0).

The promotion’s explosive return to the Irish capital for BELLATOR 275: Mousasi vs Vanderford, sees middleweight world champion Gegard Mousasi defend his crown against undefeated American Austin Vanderford. The co-main event sees Irish star Peter Queally return to action against Manchester, England’s Kane Mousah (13-4) in the lightweight division.

Broadcast details and additional fights are set to be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased online from Ticketmaster.ie and Bellator.com.

Sinead Kavanagh will be hoping to respond to a heartbreaking world title loss against Cyborg in her last outing in November at BELLATOR 271. A winner of her two previous BELLATOR outings before facing the pound-for-pound queen, Kavanagh will be looking to get back to her winning ways and live up to her “KO” moniker in front of the 3Arena crowd.

Currently riding a five-fight win streak, Northern Ireland’s McCourt returns to action following a dominant display in a unanimous decision victory against Jessica Borga during her last outing at BELLATOR 267 in October. Now sitting at No. 4 in BELLATOR’s featherweight rankings, a win at the expense of her opponent on Feb. 25 will go a long way towards moving “The Curse” one step closer to a BELLATOR world title shot against incumbent champion, Cris Cyborg.

Brian Moore’s long-awaited Dublin return will see the Wexford fighter go toe-to-toe with No. 9 ranked bantamweight Jornel Lugo. “The Pikeman” will be hoping the home support helps him hand Lugo his first professional defeat and in doing so climb into the official bantamweight rankings for the first time. Lugo has won all four of his bouts under the BELLATOR banner, including an emphatic first round submission win against Keith Lee at BELLATOR 265 earlier this year.

Several additions have been confirmed for the  preliminary card including a bantamweight bout between Welshman Brett Johns (17-3) and Khurshed Kakhorov (8-0). Johns makes his return to European soil looking to make a statement in a must-see match-up against the undefeated Kakhorov. MMA veteran Johns boasts an impressive 17 wins from his 20 professional fights, while Kakhorov has won each of his first eight bouts, including a dominant unanimous decision win in his BELLATOR debut against Jair Junior at BELLATOR 267 in October. 

England’s No. 5 ranked Fabian Edwards (9-2) is set to make his return to the cage in Dublin when he takes on Marian Dimitrov (10-2). “The Assassin” won his first nine professional fights and established himself as one of the rising stars in BELLATOR’s middleweight division. He will be looking to bounce back from a defeat in his last fight against Dublin title challenger Austin Vanderford at BELLATOR 259 in May.

Ireland’s Danni McCormack (5-0) returns to action fresh from her win at the 3Arena in November against Audrey Kerouche, when she faces Stephanie Page (5-3) in a strawweight bout. The preliminary card  also features a welterweight bout between Italian Stefano Paterno (13-4-1) and BELLATOR debutantLuca Poclit (6-1) and a featherweight fight between Wales’ Scott Pedersen (1-2) and Ireland’s Nathan Kelly (3-2).

Rounding out the additions to the preliminary card is a featherweight affair between up-and-coming Irishman Ciaran Clarke (4-0) and BELLATOR debutant Abou Tounkara (7-2).

Fans can see the updated card for BELLATOR 275: Mousasi vs Vanderford below:

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BELLATOR 275: MOUSASI VS. VANDERFORD MAIN CARD:

Middleweight World Title Main Event: #C-Gegard Mousasi (48-7, 2 NC) vs. #1-Austin Vanderford (11-0)

Lightweight Bout: #5-Peter Queally (13-6, 1 NC) vs. Kane Mousah (13-4)

Women’s Featherweight Bout: #5-Sinead Kavanagh (7-5)vs. #4–Leah McCourt (6-1)

Bantamweight Bout: Brian Moore (14-8) vs. #9-Jornel Lugo (7-0)

BELLATOR 275: MOUSASI VS. VANDERFORD PRELIMINARY CARD:

Bantamweight Bout: Brett Johns (17-3) vs. Khurshed Kakhorov (8-0)

Lightweight Bout: Charlie Leary (17-11-1) vs. Davy Gallon (19-7-2)

Featherweight Bout: Ciaran Clarke (4-0) vs. Abou Tounkara (7-2)

Middleweight Bout: #5-Fabian Edwards (9-2) vs. Marian Dimitrov (10-2)

Welterweight Bout: Stefano Paterno (13-4-1) vs. Luca Poclit (6-1)

Strawweight Bout: Danni McCormack (5-0) vs. Stephanie Page (5-3)

Lightweight Bout: Junior Morgan (3-0) vs. Darragh Kelly (Pro Debut)

Featherweight Bout: Scott Pedersen (1-2) vs. Nathan Kelly (3-2)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

Updated schedule of BELLATOR events

Sat. Jan. 29 // BELLATOR 273: Bader vs. Moldavsky // Footprint Center // Phoenix, AZ

Fri. Feb. 19 // BELLATOR 274: Gracie vs. Storley // Mohegan Sun Arena // Uncasville, CT

Fri. Feb. 25 // BELLATOR 275: Mousasi vs. Vanderford // 3Arena // Dublin, IRE

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

Full Fight Night Results, Quotes & Photos For BELLATOR MMA 272: Pettis vs. Horiguchi

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Complete Fight Night Photos Here – Please Credit: BELLATOR MMA
 
C-Sergio Pettis (22-5) defeated Kyoji Horiguchi (29-4) via KO (spinning backfist) at 3:24 of round four
 
Sergio Pettis: “I came out here and got beaten up for four rounds. When it happened, I was just like, ‘Man I am losing this fight. I’ve got to do something spectacular.’ It (the decisive punch that ended the fight) came at the right time.”
 
“I needed to face some adversity, and tonight Horiguchi gave me all of that. It was hard trying to time his rhythm, trying to get his movement down.”
 
“My coaches always tell me, ‘If you open up, you could be one of the best in the world.’ That what I’m pushing for.”
 
#9-Jeremy Kennedy (17-3, 1 NC) defeated #4-Emmanuel Sanchez (20-7) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
 
Jeremy Kennedy: “I can’t seem to find it. My coaches got mad at me in my last fight. I’ve got an atomic bomb. That’s what my coach said. It’s a 100-mile (per hour) fastball.  I’ve got to use it. Last fight, I didn’t. I wanted to try and mix it up, change my style.  I was competitive, but I had to get back to my roots.” 
 
“I would have liked to have mixed it up a bit more, but (Emmanuel) Sanchez is in your face the whole time. It was hard to dictate that calculated range. He just came right at me.”
 
“I put a lot of pressure on myself. I had a close friend pass away. He was in my corner for my last few fights.  I didn’t want to go home with a loss. I didn’t want to take any extra chance. I wanted to win every single exchange. I wanted to win every second, every moment of this fight. I didn’t care what that looked like. I had to get the ‘w.’ “
 
“Next time, I am going to get back to having fun and find that happy medium. This one is for Boom. I had to get my hand raised at all costs. I wasn’t coming out of this without a win.”
 
#7-Josh Hill (21-4) defeated Jared Scoggins (10-2) via KO (punch) at :56 of round two
 
Josh Hill: “This one was about timing. We knew the first round would be hard to get that timing down. He (Jared Scoggins) was very jumpy, in and out. That (punch that ended the fight) was right on the button.”
 
“I belong there (in the Bellator MMA World Grand Prix). I know this division is stacked, so I understand (why he wasn’t included). I want in. If there are any injuries or pull outs, I’m your man.”
 
“I saw him (Scoggins) go down and knew he was out. There was no point to keep going.”
 
“He (Scoggins) is very traditional, karate-esque. My coach and I worked on timing quite a bit. I knew the first round might be a little tricky. I landed a punch in the first, but it wasn’t on the money. The one in the second (that ended the fight) was.”
 
#5-Johnny Eblen (10-0) defeated Collin Huckbody (10-4) via TKO (punches) at 1:11 of round one
 
Johnny Eblen: “I wanted to send that dude (Huckbody) to the metaverse. Sadly, I could not do that tonight. I was I could have put on a better show, but it is what it is.”
 
“John Salter, I signed a bout agreement to fight you in Florida, but you [expletive withheld] out. I don’t know if you got hurt, or you [expletive withheld] out. But I want to see you in this [expletive withheld] cage, John.  Let’s gear up and let’s get after it.”
 
PRELIMINARY CARD:
Alexander Shabliy (21-3) defeated Bobby King (10-4) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Kai Kamaka III (9-4-1) defeated John de Jesus (14-10) via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Levan Chokheli (10-1, 1 NC) defeated Vinicius de Jesus (9-5) via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)
Justin Montalvo (4-0) defeated Jacob Bohn (10-8) via unanimous decision (29-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Mike Hamel (8-5) defeated Killys Mota (12-3) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 30-27)
Spike Carlyle (13-3) defeated Dan Moret (15-7) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:58 of round three
Kyle Crutchmer (8-1) defeated #10-Oliver Enkamp (10-3) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
 
Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.
Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

2022 is the Year of the BELLATOR Bantamweight World Grand Prix

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HIGHLY ANTICIPATED EIGHT-MAN TOURNAMENT SET TO DETERMINE 135-POUND WORLD CHAMPION AND $1 MILLION DOLLAR GRAND PRIZE WINNER

YEARLONG TOURNAMENT BEGINS IN FIRST QUARTER OF NEXT YEAR, EXCLUSIVELY ON SHOWTIME

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             WATCH TONIGHT’S ANNOUNCEMENT BY CLICKING HERE

LOS ANGELES – It was officially announced at tonight’s BELLATOR 272: Pettis vs. Horiguchi event that next year’s prestigious BELLATOR World Grand Prix will take place in the promotion’s incredibly stacked bantamweight division. The winner of tonight’s 135-Pound World Championship fight between Sergio Pettis and Kyoji Horiguchi will defend their title next year in the Bantamweight World Grand Prix featuring a gauntlet of the eight best athletes the weight class has to offer.

In addition to both Pettis and Horiguchi, the Bantamweight World Grand Prix is set to feature former divisional champion Juan Archuleta, No. 2 ranked-Raufeon Stots, No. 3 ranked-Patchy Mix, No. 4 ranked-Magomed Magomedov, No. 5 ranked-Leandro Higo, and No. 6 ranked-James Gallagher, who will all vie for the right to be named the next BELLATOR Bantamweight World Champion and take home a grand prize of one-million-dollars.

First-round matchups and additional details such as dates, locations and tournament alternates will be revealed soon.

All tournament bouts will be five-round contests and will be telecast in the United States exclusively on SHOWTIME.

Former BELLATOR Bantamweight World Champion Kyoji Horiguchi enters tonight’s contest unranked due to inactivity within the promotion. Official BELLATOR Rankings will be updated and distributed on Monday, Dec. 6.

Champion – Sergio Pettis (21-5):

Fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc., Sergio Pettis captured the BELLATOR bantamweight crown in May 2021 by outpointing former champion Juan Archuleta in a fast-paced contest at BELLATOR 258. During a nearly six-year, 14-fight UFC stint, the Roufusport-product competed in both the flyweight and bantamweight classes, collecting nine victories and a pair of “Fight of the Night” honors against Alex Caceres and Matt Hobar in 2014. Prior to his UFC tenure, Pettis, the younger brother of former UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis, earned world titles in Resurrection Fighting Alliance’s flyweight division and North American Fighting Championship’s 135-pound class. Following a trio of impressive triumphs over some of the division’s elite, BELLATOR’s bantamweight champion is set to protect his belt and an unblemished 3-0 promotional mark entering the tournament.

Former BELLATOR Bantamweight Champion – Kyoji Horiguchi (29-3):

Hailing from Takasaki, Japan, the 31-year-old Kyoji Horiguchi is the reigning RIZIN bantamweight champion who notoriously became a simultaneous, two-promotion champion in 2019 after taking down and upsetting then-BELLATOR champion Darrion Caldwell at Madison Square Garden. Unfortunately, an injury would force Horiguchi to relinquish his BELLATOR title in 2019, and he now looks to reclaim his belt in a main event clash with current champion Sergio Pettis at BELLATOR 272. While with RIZIN, the American Top Team-product amassed an impressive 10-1 promotional mark, highlighted by eight finishes and five first-round knockouts. Additionally, more than half of Horiguchi’s career victories have come via knockout. Now, after reclaiming his RIZIN bantamweight strap and avenging only his third loss in 32 outings with a highlight-reel, opening-round knockout over Kai Asakura on New Year’s Eve 2020, the Japanese sensation fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla., aims to get his hands back on BELLATOR’s title

No. 1 Ranked Bantamweight – Juan Archuleta (25-3):

With the Bantamweight World Grand Prix set, former BELLATOR World Champion and No. 1-ranked Juan Archuleta sees a clear path toward regaining the 135-pound crown. Armed with 25 professional victories, including 12 by way of K.O. or submission, the “Spaniard” has no issues stopping opponents inside the BELLATOR cage. The former four-division King of the Cage world champion, who holds victories over Patchy Mix, Henry Corrales, and Ricky Bandejas, strives to keep that trend going throughout the Grand Prix.

No. 2 Ranked Bantamweight – Raufeon Stots (17-1):

Considered one of the world’s best 135-pound fighters, Raufeon “Supa” Stots has been in the title conversation since his 2019 BELLATOR debut. Currently riding a nine-fight winning streak, the No. 2-ranked bantamweight has defeated some of BELLATOR’s finest, including Magomed Magomedov and Josh Hill, by smothering opponents with top-tier grappling ability. Sporting a near-perfect 17-1 record, the Roufusport product and two-time NCAA Division II Champion now has an opportunity to compete for a long-awaited crown.

No. 3 Ranked Bantamweight – Patchy Mix (15-1):

Set to make his sixth promotional appearance under the BELLATOR umbrella, the pride of Angola, N.Y., has collected two-first round submission victories while compiling a 4-1 record with the Scott Coker-led promotion. The 28-year-old Buffalo, N.Y. native looks to build off his most recent win at BELLATOR 270 over James Gallagher in his opponent’s hometown of Dublin, Ireland, last month. Prior to his time with BELLATOR, Mix dominated the competition while on the regional scene by collecting nine of his 15 professional victories, including five first-round finishes. Now, the submission specialist will face the toughest challenge of his career, a shot at the tournament’s $1 million prize and BELLATOR’s 135-pound strap.

No. 4 Ranked Bantamweight – Magomed Magomedov (18-2):

After capturing belts in different organizations, Dagestani phenom Magomed Magomedov hopes to add to his collection by taking home BELLATOR gold. Amassing an impressive 18-2 career record with 12 via finish, “Tiger” has made a swift impact on the BELLATOR 135-pound division since his December 2020 promotional debut by climbing to No. 4 in the rankings. Possessing both a blistering pace and superior grappling, Magomedov has the potential to be a nightmare matchup for anyone in the BELLATOR Bantamweight World Grand Prix.

No. 5 Ranked Bantamweight – Leandro Higo (21-5):

After dropping in weight to 135-pounds, Leandro Higo has been on a tear by winning three consecutive fights and putting the entire bantamweight division on notice. Under the tutelage of the famed Pitbull Brothers camp, the Brazilian is coming off a hard-fought, split-decision victory over former Bantamweight World Champion Darrion Caldwellat BELLATOR 259 in May 2021. As 12 of Higo’s 21 pro victories have come by submission, the entire bracket knows that the No. 5-ranked bantamweight will not be an easy out.

No. 6 Ranked Bantamweight – James Gallagher (11-2):

Hailing from Strabane, Ireland, one of MMA’s brightest young fighters strives to notch his 12th career victory in a tournament stacked with 135-pound talent. Following a finish over Anthony Taylor at BELLATOR 169 in December 2016 and a pair of first-round submissions the following year, “The Strabanimal” has tallied four victories over his past six contests, including three first-round finishes and a highlight reel 35-second win at BELLATOR 227. Poised for the biggest test of his young career, the former SBG Ireland-product aims to shed the shadow of former training partner, Conor McGregor, and add to his own legacy with a shot at BELLATOR bantamweight gold.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

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Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

BELLATOR MMA Confirms Full Fight Card for BELLATOR MMA 272: Pettis vs. Horiguchi on SHOWTIME This Friday, Dec. 3 at 10 P.M. ET/PTBELLATOR MMA Confirms Full Fight Card for BELLATOR MMA 272: Pettis vs. Horiguchi on SHOWTIME This Friday, Dec. 3 at 10 P.M. ET/PT

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BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE IS ON THE LINE AS BELLATOR CLOSES OUT THE YEAR AT MOHEGAN SUN ARENA WITH A FLURRY OF ACTION-PACKED FIGHTS

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LOS ANGELES – BELLATOR MMA has confirmed the full fight card for BELLATOR MMA 272: Pettis vs Horiguchi card at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. The event puts a stamp on the 2021 calendar year and is set to begin on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT.

The stacked preliminary card will stream live on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and Pluto TV beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

In the main event of the evening, current BELLATOR Bantamweight World Champion Sergio Pettis (21-5) puts his belt on the line against former BELLATOR 135-pound titleholder and current RIZIN champion Kyoji Horiguchi (29-3). The co-main event features former featherweight world title challenger No. 4-ranked Emmanuel Sanchez (20-6) versus former UFC standout and No. 9-ranked Jeremy Kennedy (16-3, 1 NC).

Also anchoring the main card will be a bantamweight bout between UFC veteran Jared Scoggins (10-1) and No. 7-ranked Josh Hill (20-4), as well as undefeated American Top Team-product, and No. 5-ranked middleweight Johnny Eblen (9-0), who looks to protect his unblemished record against BELLATOR newcomer Collin Huckbody (10-3).

With seven thrilling fights in total, the BELLATOR MMA 272 preliminary card is highlighted by a pair of welterweight contests between Swedish submission specialist No. 10-ranked Oliver Enkamp (10-2) and former Oklahoma State University wrestling standout Kyle Crutchmer (7-1) as well as Levan Chokheli (9-1, 1 NC) and Vinicius de Jesus (9-4).

Hawaii’s Kai Kamaka III (8-4-1) returns to the Scott Coker-led promotion, as he prepares for battle with John de Jesus (14-9) in featherweight action, while Dan Moret (15-6) and Spike Carlyle (12-3) meet in a 160-lb contract weight matchup.

Three additional lightweight matchups have also been announced with Russian sensation Alexander Shabliy (20-3) taking on Utah’s Bobby King (10-3), Killys Mota (12-2) battling Mike Hamel (8-5), and Justin Montalvo (3-0) squaring up with Jacob Bohn (10-7)

Tickets for BELLATOR MMA 272 are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com.

Full bout listings are below:

BELLATOR MMA 272: PETTIS VS. HORIGUCHI MAIN CARD:

Friday, Dec. 3 – live on SHOWTIME

10 p.m. ET/PT 

Bantamweight World Title bout: C-Sergio Pettis (21-5) vs. Kyoji Horiguchi (29-3)

Featherweight bout: #4-Emmanuel Sanchez (20-6) vs. #9-Jeremy Kennedy (16-3, 1 NC)

Bantamweight bout: Josh Hill (20-4) vs. Jared Scoggins (10-1)

Middleweight bout: #5-Johnny Eblen (9-0) vs. Collin Huckbody (10-3)

PRELIMINARY CARD:

BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel | Pluto TV 

7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT 

Lightweight bout: Alexander Shabliy (20-3) vs. Bobby King (10-3)

Featherweight bout: John de Jesus (14-9) vs. Kai Kamaka III (8-4-1)

Welterweight bout: Levan Chokheli (9-1, 1 NC) vs. Vinicius de Jesus (9-4)

Lightweight bout: Justin Montalvo (3-0) vs. Jacob Bohn (10-7)

Lightweight bout: Killys Mota (12-2) vs. Mike Hamel (8-5)

160-Pound Contract Weight bout: Dan Moret (15-6) vs. Spike Carlyle (12-3)

Welterweight bout: #10-Oliver Enkamp (10-2) vs. Kyle Crutchmer (7-1)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

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Updated schedule of BELLATOR events

Fri. Dec. 3 // BELLATOR 272: Pettis vs. Horiguchi // Mohegan Sun Arena // Uncasville, CT

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

Full Fight Night Results, Quotes & Photos For BELLATOR MMA 271: Cyborg vs. Kavanagh

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Complete Fight Night Photos Here – Please Credit: Lucas Noonan / BELLATOR MMA
 
 
BELLATOR MMA 271: CYBORG VS. KAVANAGH MAIN CARD:

C-Cris “Cyborg” (25-2, 1 NC) defeated #5-Sinead Kavanagh (7-5) via KO (strikes) at 1:32 of round one
 
Cris “Cyborg:”
 
“I didn’t do anything we planned. You never know. I had a feeling about the fight. I feel great. I am happy with the win.”
 
“I knew she was more of a striker, so I went to the ground game.  The right hand did it fast and was the key. I was very excited for the count.”
 
“I really appreciate Kayla Harrison coming to the fight. If she wants to fight me one day, that would be great.” 
 
#6-Linton Vassell (22-8, 1 NC) defeated #5-Tyrell Fortune (11-2, 1 NC) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
 
Linton Vassell:
 
“I am happy that I was able to out grapple a wrestler considering I’m from the U.K. and I have no wrestling background”
 
“I give myself a good 7. I am not 100 percent happy with my performance, but I am super happy with the outcome.”
 
“I was able to reverse him (Tyrell Fortune), get on top of him, and add some damage.”
 
“I used to watch WWE. When I first started to train, I did wrestling moves like that.”
 
“I always feel like we’re our own worst enemies. I wanted a knockout.”
 
“Tyrell was so strong and powerful. There were a few times where he just stood up and shook me off.”
 
“I went for the submission. I just carried on and tried to wear him down but couldn’t do it.”
 
#6-Aaron Pico (9-3) defeated #8-Justin Gonzales (12-1) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)
 
Aaron Pico:
“I knew going into the fight that he (Justin Gonzales) was going to be a tough fighter. He is a former wrestler. One thing about us wrestlers is we don’t quit. All my coaches knew he was going to be tough.” 
 
“He was just holding on to me and is really strong. When people hold on to you, it’s kind of hard to get strikes.”
 
“Thank God I walked out of here relatively healthy. I’m just happy I got my full paycheck.”
 
“It is the first time I’ve gone three rounds. It’s my first decision. I need the experience. I’m happy I got the win.”
 
“I knew I was the dominant performer, but I have to get better. I am just so hard on myself. I want to finish guys.”
 
“Let’s go back to the drawing board. Once I step out of this cage, it’s going to be a whole different ballgame. I have to get prepared for the next opponent, so let’s get to work.”
 
#1-Arlene Blencowe (15-8)defeated #7-Pam Sorenson (9-4) via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)
Arlene Blencowe:
 
“I am my own worst critic. It wasn’t the performance that we trained for, or that I was hoping for.”
 
“I felt my first right hand land and then just went head hunting with my hands. I was respecting her take downs.”
 
“I feel like I’m such a well-rounded fighter now. I didn’t showcase any of that. I didn’t hit the ground though.”
 
“You know what is not next? Retirement. I’m 38. Old girls rule. Retirement is nowhere near on the horizon. I’m No. 1 in the division. It is only up from here.”
 
“I’m heading home to Australia. I haven’t been home in six months. I haven’t seen my kids, my partner, my family, my friends. I’m just going to go home and enjoy the rest of the year. I’ll just enjoy some family time.”
 
“Pam Sorenson is a tough girl. She tried to take me down. I went head hunting and really wanted the knockout. I am convinced that I did enough to win the fight.”
 
PRELIMINARY CARD:
#7-Steve Mowry (10-0)defeated Rakim Cleveland (22-14-1, 1 NC) via submission (kimura) at 3:28 of round one
Bruna Ellen (6-3) defeated Desiree Yanez (5-4) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Roman Faraldo (6-0) defeated Robert Turnquest (11-8) via KO (flying knee) at 1:17 of round one
Cody Law (6-0) defeated Colton Hamm (4-4) via knockout (elbows) at 4:21 of round one
Valerie Loureda (4-1) defeated Taylor Turner (5-7) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 30-27)
Waldo Cortes-Acosta (4-0) defeated Muhammed DeReese (9-5) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Ethan Hughes (3-0) defeated Mahmoud Sebie (3-1) via TKO (punches) at 4:05 of round three
 
Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.
 
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About BELLATOR
BELLATOR MMA is a leading global mixed martial arts organization featuring many of the best fighters in the world. Under the direction of veteran fight promoter Scott Coker, BELLATOR events take place in major cities worldwide and can be seen on television in over 160 countries to an available audience of over one billion people. In the United States, BELLATOR can be seen on SHOWTIME. BELLATOR is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, live event orchestration, fighter development/relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity and commission relations. BELLATOR is based in Hollywood, Calif. and owned by entertainment giant ViacomCBS, home to the world’s premier entertainment brands that connect with audiences through compelling content across television, motion picture, online and mobile platforms.
 
About SHOWTIME
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of ViacomCBS Inc., owns and operates the premium service SHOWTIME®, which features critically acclaimed original series, provocative documentaries, box-office hit films, comedy and music specials and hard-hitting sports. SHOWTIME is available as a stand-alone streaming service across all major streaming devices and Showtime.com, as well as via cable, DBS, telco and streaming video providers. SNI also operates the premium services THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as on demand versions of all three brands. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.