Category Archives: Bellator

Bellator 268:Prelims Prospects to Watch

Bellator 268 headliner is Vadim Nemkov reigning Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion vs former LFA Light Heavyweight Champion Julius Anglickas.

Bellator card is way better than the UFC Fight Night: Ladd vs Dumont card. Bunch of high level best fighters in the world to watch but I always love writing about the upcoming fighters from all over the world.

Prelim fights are fire as well so definitely watch Bellator 268 beginning to end.

Jaleel Willis

First prospect listed and rising Bellator fighter Jaleel Willis back to back Bellator wins against Mark Lemminger and Maycon Mendonca. Two solid fighters that were newly signed by Bellator.

Willis former LFA Welterweight Champion wants to become a Bellator Welterweight Title challenger in 2021 as he’s ranked in the top ten right now.

“It’s going to end up being a slow smothering fight. Like, there are too many places where he’s just slick, to where if I get too excited or try to, you know, hop on something a little bit too quick, he can make you pay. He can definitely show up when it’s time to. So, to me, it’s just like, I’ve worked to fu*king hard for this guy to take what I’ve been working for. I got to tell myself just to slow it down, and I can beat him in any position. So I just have to focus on that right there. So, that’s the reason in my head; you’ll see a slow smothering fight. I just have to pick him apart.”

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/10/13/bellator-268s-jaleel-willis-sees-matchup-with-mukhamed-berkhamov-being-a-slow-smothering-fight-wants-logan-storley-after/

Bellator 268 fight is against Mukhamed Berkhamov. 14-1 ACA Welterweight. One of the best Welterweights in the world.

Tough test for Jaleel Willis but if he wants to fight the best of the best than this will definitely show good Willis potentially can be.

“The drive that I got is I’m still not in those rankings,” Willis told MMA Junkie Radio. “I still want to get back in there. I want to be more than just No. 10. I want to be more than just who this dude is at the edge of the rankings. I want people to know who the realest is. I want them to know who Jaleel Willis is, honestly.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/10/jaleel-willis-driven-by-rankings-wants-logan-storley-after-bellator-268

Mukhamed Berkhamov

Before signing with Bellator was one of the best Welterweights the promotion ACA (Absolute Champioship Akhmat)

14-1 record wins against former Ulimtate Fighter Jesse Taylor who later on fought for Strikeforce, KSW, Cage Warriors. Competed on Combat Jiu-Jitsu Worlds Tournaments.

Trains at Sanford MMA down in South Florida with a full roster filled of champions, future champions and the best fighters in the world.

All-Around Welterweight reminds me of Vicente Luque because of his crafty boxing ability. See if Mukhamed has what it takes to beat a top ten Bellator welterweight.

Lance Gibson Jr.

Trained by his parents Lance Gibson and Julia Budd he’s becoming a rising prospect for the Bellator roster.

2-0 under Bellator and has a fight coming up against Raymond Pina who won his last fight at Combate 46.

Gibson keeps getting better with every fight. Crafty southpaw who will have a bright future with Bellator.

Watch out for Gibson Jr with rest of 2021 and 2022 will be a year where you see him fight top 15-top 20 Lightweights.

“Her time in Bellator came to an end and it is what it is,” Gibson told MMA Junkie and other reporters at Thursday’s Bellator 268 media day. “Now it’s my time to shine in Bellator and show why I’m going to be world champion. There’s no reason why I shouldn’t be ranked in the top 10 after this fight with a phenomenal performance. Julia will go on with her career and finish it off and do her job.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/10/bellator-268-lance-gibson-jr-show-why-going-world-champion-julia-budd

Jaylon Bates

“New Breed” nickname says it all. Next generation of MMA fighters and Scott Coker discovered Bates in the Amateur scene. Recognizing the talent right away.

Winning the FCFF Bantamweight Title against a undefeated amateur fighter Devon Jackson. Winning a Tuff-N-Uff Bantamweight title all lead to Coker making the deal happen.

Now the 24 year old Bantamweight is 3-0, 12-0 overall adding amateur. Moving to ATT Portland training with Brent Primus, Ricky Simon, Ed Herman.

Continuing to train in different locations as he train at Team Bodyshop MMA with AJ McKee and Joey Davis.

Yes he’s a very talented grappler but want to see the improvements in Bates striking versatility.

Everything goes right than Bates should be competing for a Bellator Bantamweight Title 2023 and he needs to least have average or above average striking to mix it up.

Bellator 267 Fighters to Watch: Kakhorov and Diatta

Khurshed Kakhorov

Bellator debut is at Bellator 267, First fight on the card. Undefeated Tajikistan fighter. High level Bantamweight with POWER in his hands.

Entertainer fighter to watch as he’s a push the pace type of fighter, Looking for the kill every round. Doubt his fights will ever be boring.

Exciting new addition to the stacked red hot Bellator Bantamweight division.

Bellator debut is against Jair Junior 6-2 record, Fought for Kunlun Fight and Glory of Heroes.

Fabacary Diatta

Training partners with Salahdine Parnasse (KSW former Featherweight Champion) at Atch Academy in France. He’s a talented fighter himself as France is becoming a region for UFC, Bellator, One Championship, PFL to sign fighters.

Diatta had a impressive debut against Dominique Wooding. Bellator 267 fight is against a tough Brit… Nathan Rose (7-3 record).

Athleticism, Speed jumps off the screen as this kid could be playing for a professional soccer team but is looking to earn a living in the MMA game.

Watch out for Fabacary Diatta in the following years as he makes an impact in the Bellator Featherweight division.

Bellator 266 Saul Rogers Moves Up to Lightweight

Former Ultimate Fighter 22 contestant would’ve been under the Ultimate Fighter Winner if he didn’t fake his VISA, Life would’ve changed forever if UFC just allowed it to happen.

Signed with Bellator, 2-2 record right now. Trouble cutting weight, Hard time fighting at Featherweight where you got to cut down to 145 pounds.

“I was killing myself getting down to 145lbs. Now I’m fighting a weight higher and much healthier.” Saul Rogers

https://www.bbc.com/sport/mixed-martial-arts/58573932

” Just focusing on plainly cutting weight when I was fighting at featherweight in the past the whole camp about making weight you know what I’m saying and all the time I’m hungry all time, I’m tired all the time and didn’t want to do anything in between and this fight camp now. “

MMA Junkie interview with Saul Rogers Bellator 266

Moving up to Lightweight definitely will help but see is he has success. First test is facing the MMA veteran with 31-11-1 Georgi Karakhanyan. Fought everyone from the sun including AJ McKee, Lance Palmer, Emmanuel Sanchez, Myles Jury.

Training at Sanford MMA with the killers from Gilbert Burns, Jason Jackson, Aung La Sang, Michael Chandler, Derek Brunson. Iron Sharpens Iron is very true and will see how good Saul Rogers can potentially be, He’s only 31 years old. PRIME years for an athlete.

“I feel like this fight is going to be fight of the night. It’s going to be a good fight. He likes to come forward, I like to come forward.”

https://www.bbc.com/sport/mixed-martial-arts/58573932

Rogers looks shredded, Way more fit cutting to 155 pounds. Curious see how this one goes. Wishing Saul Rogers the best.

What’s Next for Winners of Bellator 265

Logan Storley

Logan Storley lost by split decision to Yaraslav Amosov showed the improvements in his game. Facing one of the best Welterweights in the world.

Bounce back split decision win against Dante Schiro, Former LFA & One Championship fighter. Expected a dominant win against Schiro in his hometown of South Dakota but the pressure got to him.

Win is a win and Storley is the #5th Bellator Welterweight, Close to a title shot in 2021. Getting his revenge in 2021 against Yaraslav Amosov.

“It hurts your ego that you didn’t get to go do that for them, that’s why I was so disappointed. I wanted to go out there and put on an exciting show for the state of South Dakota,” Storley told the Argus Leader after not being able to get a TKO victory.

https://www.argusleader.com/story/sports/2021/08/21/im-coming-home-logan-storley-bellator-mma-take-sioux-falls/8223560002/

“I know it wasn’t the best performance, but I did that same thing with Yaroslav and made him the most exhausted he’s ever been,” said Storley. “That’s kind of my style, is grinding and adding more implements to it, to be more explosive and get damage. But he knows how deep I took him into those waters, and had him in trouble, and [Douglas] Lima didn’t do that to him.”

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/08/22/bellator-265-logan-storley-welterweight/

Next for Storley can face Neiman Gracie in his next fight. 4X NCAA All-American at University of Minnesota vs 2nd degree black belt under Renzo Gracie. Second most submission wins in Bellator history.

Second option is facing teammate Jason Jackson #3 Bellator Welterweight in a high level Welterweight fight. Waiting on line for a title shot. Definitely a fight worth waiting for and watching.

Third option is facing a HIGH LEVEL Bellator welterweight prospect like Jaleel Willis(LFA Welterweight Champion) 15-2 record.

Last option is sit and wait for the loser of MVP vs Douglas Lima.

Jornel Lugo vs Brian Moore

Jornel Lugo red hot since signing with Bellator. Defeating Cass Bell, Keith Lee. Top Ten Bellator Bantamweight right now. Move up few more rankings higher with wins against Leandro Higo, Brian Moore, Matheus Mattos.

Jornel Lugo responded in his post fight conference about fighting Brian Moore in Dublin on November 25th.

Magomedov vs Stots Bellator 264 High Level Matchup

Bellator 264 Main Event is Gegard Mousasi defending his Bellator Middleweight title against John Salter.

Fight I’m the most excited for at Bellator 264 is Magomed Magomedov vs Raufeon Stots. High level Bantamweight fight, Battle of the TOP FIVE Bellator Bantamweights.

The winner can face the winner of James Gallagher vs Patchy Mix.(Bellator 269)

Magomed Magomedov becoming one of my favorite fighters in all of MMA., Dominating his opponents with both Bellator fights.

Entering this fight with a record of 18-1, Trains at DagFighter in the Savage City of Dagestan.

Before signing with Bellator, Magomedov fought for the #1 Russian Promotion ACB. Becoming the ACB Bantamweight Champion after defeating Petr Yan for the Vacant ACB Bantamweight Title.

Magomedov the #1 Russian Bantamweight prospect before Bellator and now he wants to show everyone he’s one of the best Bantamweight fighters in the world. Defeating Raufeon Stots would be a feather in his cap because Stots is one talented fighter.

“My transition to Bellator has been smooth so far, I’m 2-0 in the Bellator cage,” Magomedov said at this week’s Bellator 264 media day, “and I think the winner of this fight is going to get the contender’s shot, or a title shot.”

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/08/12/bellator-264-magomed-magomedov-title/

“I’m very excited to fight him as well but usually whoever has to fight me usually doesn’t end well for them.” Magomed Magomedov

Raufeon Stots in the prime of his career, Killing it since Bellator signed him back in 2019. Rising to the top of the Bantamweight division. Now has the toughest test of his life.

Stots taking this fight serious as possible training with CORY SANDHAGEN.

“Cory Sandhagen is a cool dude,” Stots told MMA Junkie. “I called him out like years ago, I think before I was in the UFC, he was in the UFC making big splashes, and he needed an opponent. I called him out and then I’d seen him in an elevator, and then I was like, ‘Hey, man, I called you out a couple of weeks ago. I’m just trying to get in. Whoever I could fight.’ He hit me up on social media and was like, ‘Would you be interested in some cross training?’ And I was like, ‘F*ck yeah.’

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/08/bellator-264-raufeon-stots-trained-for-magomed-magomedov-fight-with-cory-sandhagen

“I feel like I’m better everywhere and that’s what I’ve been training so I can be better but you know the general public a lot of times like needs time to catch up you know what I mean, No one knows really he thinks he’s the best I’m the best you know I definitely this it.”

“I’m going to go out there and prove it.”

Before ever stepping inside the ring Stots was a NCAA D2-All American wrestler at Nebraska-Kearney for 2012 and 2013. Defending Magomedov’s wrestling, Grappling ability.

I genuinely have NO CLUE who WINS this fight, Both fighters have there advantages in some aspects but the matchup is perfect. I can’t wait for this fight sit on the couch and watch a high level fight. Two ferrets fighting inside the cage!!

AJ McKee vs Mads Burnell First Title Defense for AJ McKee

Congratulations on the new Bellator star AJ McKee defeating the face of Bellator Patricio “Pitbull’ Friere. AJ McKee is the new Bellator Featherweight Champion.

Now it’s time to defend his Bellator Featherweight title but against who?

Mads Burnell

Mads Burnell former UFC fighter, Cage Warriors Featherweight Champion is now 3-0 with Bellator. Defeating the GREAT Emmanuel Sanchez at Bellator 263 in a unanimous decision win. Shows how talented Mads Burnell defeated a former Bellator Featherweight title challenger, Giving Pitbull his toughest of his life.

Burnell vs Sanchez was a back & forth fight, Testament to Burnell’s mental toughness and cardio going a high paced three round fight.

“I can say hands down for sure, I’m the slickest 145er in the world,” Burnell said at the post-fight news conference. “It may seem like I’m getting hit, but I’m rolling with the punches and all that stuff. I saw the significant strikes after the fight and I was like, ‘What the hell, man?’ Of course, he hit me with a little bit, but the shots he hit me with was like nothing.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/08/bellator-263-mads-burnell-anticipates-future-showdown-against-aj-mckee

Mads Burnell in his own right is one talented dude and will give AJ McKee a tough fight. Mads Burnell definitely deserves it after beating the title contender Emmanuel Sanchez.

Questionaire “Is AJ someone that you want to take.”

Answer ” Yeah later of course if that’s who if I have to fight for the title that’s who I have to fight.”

Burnell needs to rest, Chill with his family and fall of 2021 we can see AJ McKee have his first title defense.

Burnell will give AJ Mckee a different look, Definitely a slick fighter. A chin, Has some hands. NO GI Brazilian Jiu Jitsu European Champion. Definitely one of the best Jiu-Jitsu players in the Bellator Featherweight Division.

Bellator 263 Fighters to Pay Attention too

Bellator 263 is the most hyped up, Most anticipated fight in Bellator history between the face of Bellator Patricio Pitbull vs the rising star AJ McKee.

Besides the Featherweight title fight there’s so many fighters and fights to watch looking to make a name for themselves with new viewers… Move up the Bellator rankings.

Man I can’t wait for Saturday night!!

Usman Nurmagomedov

There’s the Gracie Dynasty now the Nurmagomedov dynasty. Usman Nurmagomedov part of the next generation, Future Bellator Lightweight champion.

Usman Nurmagomedov is one talented fighter ONLY 23 years old but man he’s IMPRESSIVE to watch. The way he kicks with ease with different angles, Accurate striking. Fights like Israel Adesanya. I was blown away with Usman’s Bellator debut against Mike Hamel.

Second fight of Usman’s Bellator career is against the tough Manny Muro. Undefeated fighter in his Bellator career & Jackson Wink product.

“He’ll give me a good fight but I’m in looking for finish.”

What the Heck Podcast

“I’m working with the top tier fighters all my life since I was born basically.”

Mike Heck Podcast

Guarantee he’ll be challenging for Bellator Lightweight title in 2022!!

Chris Gonzalez

Silver Medalist 2017 Greco Roman Wrestling(US National Championship) 8th place at the World Championship for the 2016 US National Team. Training now at Team Alpha Male with Cody Garbrandt, Chad Mendes, Lance Palmer, Joseph Benavidez.

Toughest fight for Chris Gonzalez is against the Bellator veteran Goiti Yamaguchi. Must be confident in his abilities from the training at Team Alpha Male to really want to fight a tough fighter, He’s no joke.

“A lot of that was because that’s what I’ve been telling Bellator I wanted. I don’t think they’ve given me anything more than I asked for,” Gonzalez explained. “I’ve continually asked for better competition and high-level fights, because I see myself as a high-level competitor as well. I train with some of the best guys in the world at Team Alpha Male, and I’m ready. Mentally, physically, all-around, I’m ready, and I’ve risen to the occasion thus far.”

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/07/27/bellator-263-chris-gonzalez-high-level/

Yamaguchi defeated fighters Daniel Weichel, Adam Piccolotti, Daron Cruickshank. Tied for most Bellator Lightweight submission wins with five, Most Bellator submission wins with Bellator.

Tales of two different fighting styles from Gonzalez wrestling to Goiti Yamaguchi Black Belt Jiu-Jitsu.

“Goiti is a really tough competitor,” Gonzalez said. “He’s been a Top 5 fighter in my eyes for the last five-plus years. He’s been fighting all the top competition, so it’s a great opportunity for me to show my worth and show that I’m a contender, and I’m here to stay, and I’m a legitimate threat for the title. I’m coming for it.”

https://www.mmaweekly.com/chris-gonzalez-wants-to-show-hes-a-legitimate-contender-at-bellator-263

Islam Mamedov

Part of the Dagestan savages, Newly signed Bellator fighter formerly fought for PFL and had a very successful career too. Mamedov has a 19-1 record for a reason. Defeated a talented fighters from Thiago Tavares (Former UFC fighter), Ylies Djiroun Contenders Norwich Lightweight Champion, Natan Schulte current PFL Lightweight Champion.

Since the man is talented fighting former Bellator Lightweight Title Challenger… Brent Primus.

“If you want to be the best, you’ve got to beat the best,” he stated. “Of course I’m happy they gave me the former champ.”

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/07/29/bellator-263-islam-mamedov-joined-promotion-gave-offer-couldnt-refuse/

Khasan Magomedsharipov

Last name sounds familiar… Yes the younger brother of Zabit. Khasan is one talented kid as well ONLY 20 years old with a 5-0 record.

“It was always my goal to try myself and try my skills and bring my talents to Bellator, because Bellator is one of the major organizations,” Magomedsharipov said. “It’s on the same level, I believe, as the UFC. For me, I think to debut overseas in the U.S., Bellator will be the best option for me. That’s why I picked Bellator.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/07/bellator-263-video-khasan-zabit-magomedsharipov-brother-debut-fight

Fights very similar to Zabit fighting style but just with nore experience he’ll only get better. Training with striking mastermind and pizza owner Mark Henry in New Jersey.

Keoni Diggs Impressive against Weichel

Bellator 261 fight of the night was Daniel Weichel vs Keoni Diggs. What a FIGHT, Wish the fight was five rounds but it’s all good. Back and forth technical stand up fight.

Daniel Weichel won by Decision (split) (29–28, 28–29, 30–27) but Keoni Diggs won this fight no disrespect to Weichel but Keoni Diggs beat him stastically, Won the third round. The commentators were saying Diggs won as well.

The judges messed up on this one.

Loss on Diggs record but Diggs need to keep his head held up high, I was so impressed with his striking. Continuing to stand up with Weichel. Hearing the popp in Diggs hands, See Weichel backing up.

Diggs 34 years old 9-1 record crazy improvements. Love to see more of Keoni Diggs, Next up for him can be Pedro Carvalho, Saul Rogers or Jeremy Kennedy.

Hawaii has Max Holloway, BJ Penn, Ilima Lei Macfarlane and Keoni Diggs is one of the NEXT GREAT Hawaii born MMA fighters.

You gotta pay your dues and it’s a lot of ups and downs and of course it just makes when you get to where you’re at and you’re still climbing, I’m still climbing and we’re just trying to get to where we’re at and you never know where we’re gonna end up but we just keep pushing forward, pushing forward and it definitely makes it a lot sweeter. You stop a little and think back on things like, wow.

https://www.khon2.com/sports/hawaiis-keoni-diggs-embraces-the-journey-that-has-led-him-to-bellator-261-showdown-against-featherweight-contender-daniel-weichel/

Keoni Diggs looked confident, In right mindset just sucks the judges got it wrong. Hope Scott Coker gives Diggs a solid fight, He impressed me a lot. Looking forward to Keoni’s next fight in 2021.

Yaroslav Amosov First Title Defense ? Jason Jackson

Yaroslav Amosov Finally won the Bellator Welterweight Title against Douglas Lima, One of the best Welterweights in the world. Yaroslav Amosov continuing his undefeated record of 26-0, Showing he’s one of the best Welterweights in the world.

Start defending his Bellator Welterweight Title and Yaroslav Amosov will get the respect he deserves.

What’s Yaroslav Amosov first title defense should be against first?

Jason Jackson

Yaroslav Amosov asked for the All-Around talented Jason Jackson. Former LFA WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION, Training partners with Gilbert Burns, Vicente Luque.

Jackson on a hot streak since signing with Bellator, Defeating Jordan Mein, Benson Henderson, Neiman Gracie and Paul Daley. Can’t go wrong defeating these talented fighters. BJJ black belts and former UFC champions.

I met (Jason) Jackson. He’s a good guy. He’s a very positive man. We talked. He’s a good guy. We (said), after this fight, if I won, then maybe Jackson would be the next fight together. No problem, with a smile. I think it’s Jason Jackson.

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/06/bellator-260-yaroslav-amosov-wants-jason-jackson-over-michael-page

Jason Jackson trains with some of the best fighters in the world formerly Kamaru Usman, Michael Chandler, Gilbert Burns.

100% confident he can challenge and give Amosov the toughest fight of his life. Five Round highly technical fight constant back and forth. Not a sloppy Micky Ward vs Arturo Gatti fight but a beautiful display of Mix Martial Arts, Bringing the Bellator Welterweight division to the next level.

“And I’ll be fighting Amosov because that’s the fight everyone wants to see.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/06/bellator-260-jason-jackson-wants-title-shot-vs-yaroslav-amosov

Including myself and many MMA fans wants to see Yaroslav Amosov vs Jason Jackson. WORLD CLASS Welterweight clash!! Might see a change of a champion or we see Yaroslav Amosov defend his title successfully, Showing how talented this man is.

Do we see Amosov dominate Jason Jackson with grappling, Maybe Jackson fighting

Yaroslav Amosov vs Jason Jackson Summer of 2021 or Fall of 2021 Headlining a Bellator Showtime card.

Aaron Pico vs Top Ten Opponents Options

It’s official Pico becoming a future Bellator Featherweight Champion, Aaron Pico looks like a world beater ever since switching camps to JacksonWink. Pico on a four fight winning streak DOMINATING his opponents with finishes.

Pico defeating tough fighters like Daniel Carey, Solo Hatley, Aiden Lee but now it’s time to defeat top ten opponents.

Begin his rise to the Bellator Featherweight Title in 2021.

” I feel like I’m one of the best fighters in Bellator it sounds so cliche but everybody wants to call people out but the fact of the matter is that you never know what goes behind closed doors, I don’t know what goes that’s why I have a manager.” Aaron Pico

“These guys, Henry Corrales, Zack Freeman, Adam Borics, they fought me when I knew nothing about the game,” Pico told reporters at the Bellator 260 post-fight news conference. “I mean, I laugh at the stuff I used to think about before a fight.

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/06/bellator-260-aaron-pico-ready-to-start-avenging-losses

Adam Borics

Aaron Pico vs Adam Borics 2 two of the best and brightest Bellator featherweights. Aaron Pico lost to Adam Borics back at Bellator 222. Getting cracked with a jumping knee knockout but ANYONE will get knocked out after that shot.

Pico before the knockout was doing pretty well.

” I wanna start making my revenge tour for sure, I’m not a good loser, I don’t like losing. I grabbed my nuts and fought those guys when I knew nothing I fought Henry Corrales when I only had what six fights I fought Adam Borics only had like seven fights these guys had way more experience.”

Fighting Adam Borics might expect a different result. Aaron Pico is a different person mentally and physically.

Mads Burnell

Mads Burnell former UFC fighter 2-0 with Bellator after defeating Saul Rogers. Mads Burnell is a pretty good fighter, Talented grappler. Top ten Bellator Featherweight.

Defeating a former UFC fighter, Former Cage Warriors Featherweight Champion would be a feather in it’s cap. Showing how much Aaron Pico improved in two years defeating Mads Burnell.

Aaron Pico vs Mads Burnell would be a fun fight to watch.

Emmanuel Sanchez

Former Bellator Featherweight Title Challenger. One of the best Featherweights in the world. Had the best fight against Patricio Pitbull at Bellator 209. #2 ranked Bellator Featherweight.

20-5 record is training partners with Anthony Pettis, Tyron Woodley, Sergio Pettis, Paul Felder.

Passing down the torch moment as the rising Bellator superstar faces the Bellator veteran. Former Bellator Featherweight Title Challenger. Defeating a guy like Emmanuel Sanchez EASILY lead to a title shot next.

Bellator 260 Sleeper Fight Claxton vs Gonzales

Bellator 260 headliner is Lima vs Amosov, Welterweight showdown but Bellator 260 FULL CARD is a entertaining card to watch from Main card to the beginning prelims. Excited for today’s Bellator fights.

Ty-wan Claxton vs Justin Gonzales

Ty-Wan Claxton vs Justin Gonzales is my sleeper fight for Bellator 260. Two high level Featherweights fighting on the prelims!!

Claxton 6-2 record all fights under the Bellator promotion, Claxton trains at the Colorado Gym powerhouse Elevation Fight Team with Kamaru Usman, Justin Gaethje, Cory Sandhagen to name a few killers.

Last loss was against Jay-Jay Wilson losing by split decision. Claxton a tough fighter 9th ranked Bellator Featherweight.

“There’s also a difference in the competition. Training with hard people is one thing, and then being across the cage from another guy like [Emmanuel Sanchez, or [Jay Jay] Wilson is a different animal. Being across the cage from a guy that’s like me or one of those guys will let you know real fast that you always have room to grow. So I’m looking forward to welcoming the best 145-pounder in the world come Friday night.”

https://mymmanews.com/tywan-claxton-believes-his-experience-will-allow-him-to-offer-up-a-piece-of-humble-pie-at-bellator-260/

“I’m going out there looking to be the best version of myself looking to add another one to my highlight reel.”

Claxton since the Emmanuel Sanchez loss struggling mentally and every fighter needs that mental strength to win. Claxton found himself, Changing his coaches but staying with Elevation Fight Team.

“I’m the best I feel, I feel like I’m the best version of myself you know I feel like I’m the best I’ve ever been.”

Claxton training with killers, “Iron sharpens Iron.” Making Claxton even better fighter. Mixing up the old with the new skills he learned since July 2020.

Justin Gonzales fought on the Dana White Contender Series, Obviously didn’t get the UFC contract. Gonzales to every hardcore fan is one of the best Featherweight prospects in the United States.

Justin Gonzales won the vacant LFA Featherweight Title against Jake Childers. Former Sparta Combat League Featherweight Champion. Bellator signed a big time MMA prospects.

“… You know, I’m coming to prove a point. So no disrespect to Tywan. I know he’s very tough. I’ve got much love for the guy. I don’t really know him personally, so I can’t comment on his personal life. But in that cage, man, I know I’m coming to kill, so I plan on getting the stoppage and making a statement, jumping in those rankings, and then run with it. It’s ‘The J-Train Show’ now, baby.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/06/bellator-260-justin-gonzales-debut-j-train-show

Not only Gonzales looking to defeat Claxton but looking to pursue the Bellator Featherweight Title right away!! Show the world he’s one of the best Featherweights.

Claxton vs Gonzales will be a THREE ROUND WAR and I’m definitely watching this fight. Constant technical offense!!

Aaron Pico Continues his Title Run against Aiden Lee Bellator 260

Aaron Pico was the hottest MMA prospect, First ever “Blue Chip” prospect. Lebron James of MMA. Started to be considered a bust losing to Corrales & Borics.

Simply put, Aaron has all the makings of MMA’s next great superstar, and to have him here at Bellator MMA is something special. Like many of us in the MMA community, Aaron is someone we’ve been watching closely over the last few years, and after sitting down with Bob Cook and his team, getting a chance to meet Aaron, and hearing his long-term aspirations, the fit became very obvious.”

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aaron_Pico#Bellator_MMA

Pico no longer considered a bust as Bellator has there superstar, Three fight winning streak. Next version of George St Pierre.

Pico next fight is against the tough Aiden Lee 9-4 Former Cage Warriors Tournament Featherweight Champion.

Change to JacksonWink Changed Everything

Aaron Pico formerly trained at Team Bodyshop MMA with AJ McKee & Joey Davis. Needed a change of scenery as he started to lose and get knocked out.

Matchmade in heaven moving to Albuquerque, New Mexico and started to train at JacksonWink. One of the best MMA gyms in the world from Jon Jones, BJ Penn, Holly Holm, Tim Kennedy, Carlos Condit to name a few.

“I feel really good being out in Albuquerque. I really, really enjoy it,” Pico said. “I love Greg Jackson, ‘Six-Gun’, Coach Wink, they’ve done a really good job of breaking things down for me.

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/10/bellator-aaron-pico-benefits-jackson-wink-mma-training

“right now I need to learn how to fight, that’s the most important thing. I have all the raw talents. But I don’t know how to fight completely yet. But that’s why I’m with Greg and that’s why I’m with all the coaches, to learn how to fight.” https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Aaron-Pico-Moved-to-JacksonWink-to-Learn-How-to-Fight-156625

Pico started to win by defeating Daniel Carey, Solo Hatley Jr and John De Jesus. Dominant his opponents masterfully defeating John De Jesus showing how talented Aaron Pico. Really looking like George St Pierre with his Shoot Boxing fighting style.

Every great fighter needs a great coach, Goes hand and hand. GSP has Firas Zahabi, Anderson Silva has Rafael Cordeiro and Mighty Mouse has Matt Hume. Now Aaron Pico has Greg Jackson.

“That’s why I have my manager, that’s why I have my coaches,” Pico said. “I really trust my team. I can honestly say Ali is one of the best managers in the world, really cares about his fighters and I have nothing but good things to say about him.”

https://www.mmafighting.com/2021/6/10/22525474/aaron-pico-puts-faith-manager-coaches-lead-career-after-learning-harsh-reality-im-not-invincible

“With everything that happened the way it did, it led to here and it’s the best thing that could have happened to me,” said Pico, whose struggles led him to moving to Albuquerque and training full-time at Jackson Wink MMA. “I know I always say that, but I like to always remind myself that so many blessings came out of everything that happened and I’m at a good place mentally.”

https://www.dailynews.com/2021/06/09/aaron-pico-excited-for-bellator-260-then-fatherhood/

Aaron Pico Ready for Title Run

Aaron Pico first fight of 2021 is against the former Cage Warriors fighter Aiden Lee, Pico definitely the favorite in this fight but Lee is a tough British fighter who fought Saul Rogers, Ludovit Klein, Donovan Desmae.

“I’m a good fighter, I’m a really good fighter and I believe in myself. I believe I can beat anybody in the world. I truly believe that.

“I’m really growing mentally and I’m around the game I’m even doing this, and you know the press and media, It’s all part of the job in the beginning kind of scared a little bit”

Aaron Pico even though he’s a skillful, Athletic MMA prodigy anyone can lose from a lucky knockout, Messing up in the fight. Getting too aggressive but Pico looks to dominate Lee start finish.

“Anywhere this fight goes, I can beat him, whether it be grappling, the ground and pound or on the feet,” Pico said. “I think he’s very susceptible to the overhand right, the hooks to the body. He’s very panicky when his back’s against the fence and when guys are crowding him, he doesn’t know what to do. So I feel like if I take the fight anywhere, it’s gonna be good.”

https://www.dailynews.com/2021/06/09/aaron-pico-excited-for-bellator-260-then-fatherhood/

Get passed Aiden Lee, Title run for Aaron Pico as he can rematch Adam Borics as Pico ranked #6. Borics ranked #3.

Pico vs Borics two of the next future stars, Bellator Featherweight title contenders. Whoever wins can challenge for the Bellator Featherweight title next.

Aaron Pico can have the best year of his life, Challenging for the Bellator Featherweight Title. Becoming the next superstar for Bellator, Showcasing his overall-all around skills in 2021.

Bellator 260 Lima vs Amosov BEST Bellator Fight of 2021 so far!!

Bellator 260 headliner, Douglas Lima and Yaroslav Amosov is a FIGHT I’ve been waiting for since Yaroslav Amosov jumped on the scene when he defeated Ed Ruth, That’s when I started taking notice of him. Douglas Lima since 2015 become one of the best Welterweights in the world.

Douglas Lima Bellator Welterweight Champ

Douglas Lima Bellator Welterweight Champion defeated a long list of Successful fighters from Rory MacDonald, Paul Daley, Lorenz Larkin, Michael Venom Page. Currently in the prime of his career at 33 years old, Win over the 25-0 Amosov will add another win to his legacy.

“He’s definitely got a different style than a bunch of other wrestlers. But, he’s good. It’s just different styles. That’s what I said. But he’s definitely tough. But like I said, I’ve been there with every type of (wrestlers) out there like straight wrestlers, wrestler-strikers.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/06/douglas-lima-promises-to-hand-yaroslav-amosov-first-loss-laughs-off-michael-pages-accusations

“Look at the guy’s record. You can tell you’ve got to take the guy seriously,” observed Lima. “I’m a champion, I’ll fight anybody they give me. I know, he’s fought some dangerous guys. He’s a dangerous opponent, he’s been beating everybody they’ve been giving him. He’s game, he’s ready for this.”

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/06/10/bellator-260-douglas-lima-amosov/

“Even though a lot of people don’t know about him, I do,” Lima continued. “I’ve watched his fights, I’ve watched him come up in Bellator. I know how serious of an opponent he is, coming up in a great camp in American Top Team.” That’s the same team, of course, that Lima himself trains under, albeit at a different location.

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/06/10/bellator-260-douglas-lima-amosov/

Lima definitely fighting one of his toughest fighters to date, Unheard of fighter from Ukraine that only HARCORE MMA fans know.

Yaroslav Amosov

Next version of Khabib, 25-0 Bellator Welterweight. Yaroslav Amosov long awaited title shot after running through the Bellator Welterweight Division. Defeating Gerald Harris, Erick Silva, David Rickels, Ed Ruth, Mark Lemminger and Logan Storley.

Amosov is one of my favorite fighters to watch right now, Appreciate his pressure fighting style. Sambo fighting style that leads to his dominant wins.

I love his grappling and the way he fights like George St Pierre from striking to takedowns. Called Shoot Boxing.

“I feel good because I have a good camp, good training, Big Motivation because it’s a title shot I think it’s a big motivation, My cut very good and I’m ready and I wait this time.”

“Many people believe Douglas Lima is in the conversation as one of the best welterweights in the world, Like top five on the planet, At worst top ten if you’re able to defeat him and become the champion where does that put you on the list. “

Lima vs Amosov Tale of the Tape

Douglas Lima vs Yaroslav Amosov Bellator Welterweight Title Fight is one of the best fights this weekend no matter UFC, Boxing, Professional Fighters League.

I’m so excited for this fight, Amosov finally gets his title shot. Possibly defeating one of the best Welterweights in the world or Douglas Lima ruins the perfect record of 25-0.

Awesome storyline behind this fight, Hope Bellator 260 gets millions of views. Best ratings possible because these two fighters deserve it.

Bellator MUST Signings 2021

Scott Coker and his team signing championship level fighters in 2020 and 2021 from Magomed Magomedov, Corey Anderson, Yoel Romero, Alexander Shabily, Usman Nurmagomedov, Sergio Pettis, Mads Burnell, Brett Johns to name a few fighter.

Bellator deepening there roster year after year. Bellator is in a great spot right now since the Showtime network deal but always can get better signing high level fighters that can be potential champions. Stealing them away from UFC!!

Some of the fighters listed definitely know and some others probably no clue about but awesome.

Roberto Soldic

Roberto Soldic #1 European Welterweight prospect, New King of Croatian MMA. KSW Welterweight Champion which is a incredible accomplishment since KSW is the #1 European MMA promotion.

Soldic is only 26 years old, 18-3 record. Defeating Dez Parker former Cage Warriors fighter, Former EFC Middleweight Champion Driscus Du Plessis, Krystian Kaszubowski 7-0 Welterweight, Michał Materla KSW Middleweight Title Challenger.

Soldic is a beast and deserves to fight for a top MMA promotion.

Signing with Bellator would break the MMA internet. Selling out European arenas, Headlining Bellator events because Soldic can be a superstar for Bellator.

Soldic vs Yaroslav Amosov rematch, Clash of the European killers. Soldic split decision loss to Yaroslav back at Tech Prep in 2016.

Rustam Kerimov

I LOVE Rustam Kerimov, One of my favorite MMA fighters right now. One of the best Bantamweights on the planet. Former ACA Bantamweight champion only because he wants to test free agency. Rustam Kerimov is a beast.

Constant pressure start to finish like Petr Yan. Combat Sambo Fighting style.

Wins over Takeya Mizugaki, Russian prospects Oleg Borisov, Andrey Goncharov and a MASTERPIECE win against Abdul-Rakhman Dudaev for the ACA Bantamweight Title. Dominated a Russian killer start to finish.

Bellator NEEDS to sign him right now, Send a matchmaker. Russian spy. Do whatever it takes to sign Rustam Kerimov.

Bellator Bantamweight Division is stacked but can always improve. Dream fights against Sergio Pettis, Juan Archuleta, Brett Johns, Magomed Magomedov, Raufeon Stots.

Yusuf Raisov

“Borz” Russian Lightweight Prospect is a future ACA Lightweight Champion, Killing the ACA Lightweight Division since he signed with formely known as ACB back in 2015.

Developing this Russian savage into a future UFC/Bellator Lightweight. Easily one of the best Lightweights in the world with a record of 17-2. He’s an all around powerful talent. Talented grappler, Pin point boxing with heavy hands.

Yusuf Raisov jumped on the scene when he fought MMA veteran Luis Palomino, Defeated Russian prospect Marat Balaev, Brazilian undefeated prospect Carlos Alexandre, Undefeated Lightweight prospect Raimundo Batista.

Defeating talented fighters throughout the world. Now it’s time to defeat Bellator Lightweights. Bellator matches like Goiti Yamaguchi, Myles Jury, Brent Primus. Facing against Top Ten Bellator Lightweights.

Quick run to the Bellator Lightweight Title in 2021.

Salahdine Parnasse

Salahdine Parnasse one of my favorite fighters to watch. French prodigy at 14-1-1 record at 23 years old. Lost to Daniel Torres for the KSW Featherweight Title. 9 out of 10 times Parnasse won, Lucky shot lead to a knockout. Rematch against Daniel Torrres regaining back his KSW Featherweight Title.

Leading back to the interest of Bellator. Signing with Bellator would be a HUGE DEAL.

Parnasse attracting the European Market as KSW IS HUGE in Europe! Becoming a Bellator superstar. French version of AJ McKee.

Felipe Froes

Former ACA Featherweight Champion, Next version of Jose Aldo. Prime of his career at 29 years old. Trains at Nova União with Jose Aldo, Eduardo Dantas, Renan Barao.

20-5 record went on a four fight winning streak before losing to Magomedkrasul Khasabulaev for the ACA Featherweight title.

Salman Zhamaldaev, Marat Balaev, Reginaldo Corvão are some of Felipe Froes wins.

Time for a change and no better than signing with Bellator. Competing in the red hot Featherweight Division.

Sergio Pettis vs Magomed Magomedov Summer of 2021

Congratulations to Sergio Pettis for winning the Bellator Bantamweight Title, Boxes his way to a win. Showing how much better Pettis moving up to Bantamweight. Pettis is now one of the best Bantamweights in the world after defeating Juan Archuleta(8-2 Bellator record).

“I just stuck to what I know – the basics,” Pettis said. “I stayed true to myself. I didn’t allow his movements to scare my movements. I was more worried about what I was going to do instead of what he was going to do. I was myself tonight. I was trying to flow like water and I feel like I did.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/05/bellator-258-video-sergio-pettis-vs-juan-archuleta-ufc-move-paid-off

Sergio Pettis vs Magomedov

Sergio Pettis fighting in the STACKED Bantamweight Division with Juan Archuleta, Raufeon Stots, Patchy Mix, Josh Hill and the best out of all of them is Magomed Magomedov.

Fully aware he called out Rizin Bantamweight Champion Kyoji Horiguchi, One of the best Bantamweights in the world but because of Covid-19 restrictions that fight will be awaited for a later date.

“I would love to represent Bellator versus Rizin,” Pettis said. “Anthony’s got two belts, and it would be a great opportunity to get my second belt as well.”https://www.thescore.com/mma/news/2168674/sergio-pettis-beats-archuleta-to-win-bellator-bantamweight-title

Following his big bro Anthony Pettis to become a two belt champion, Taking advantage of the cross promotion opportunity to build his brand in Japan.

Sergio Pettis vs Kyoji Horiguchi would be a GREAT FIGHT to watch, I wish it happens 2021 or 2022 but for right now I’d love to see Pettis face off against the second best Bantamweight in the world…. Magomed Magomedov.

Magomedov ONLY fighter to defeat Petr Yan back at ACB 32 than fought Yan at ACB 57 which is a GREAT FIGHT!! Highly recommend watching. Magomed Magomedov easily one of the best Bantamweights in the world.

Undefeated with Bellator so far but needs to fight tougher competition. After two fights with Bellator definitely challenge for the Bellator Bantamweight title. Nothing else to prove!!

“Juan Archuleta and [Sergio] Pettis, they’ve got to fight. I would like to fight with the winner of this fight, or with whoever loses that fight.” That pair face off in May, with Archuleta’s 135lb title on the line.

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/04/03/bellator-255-magomed-magomedov/

“My ultimate goal is to fight for the title.”

https://cagesidepress.com/2020/12/13/bellator-254-magomed-magomedov-fight/

Sergio Pettis vs Magomed Magomedov would be a great fight to watch, One of the best MMA Bantamweight fights of 2021 no matter what organization. MMA fans can see how good Sergio Pettis since the move to Bantamweight. On the other hand the world FINALLY acknowledges Magomedov and that there’s talent all over the world.

Magomedov defeats Pettis that will earn his respect and Pettis wins he’s a top ten Bantamweight no argument about it. Defeating Juan Archuleta and Magomed Magomedov only fighter to defeat Petr Yan.

Sergio Pettis becoming a star and representing the Bellator Bantamweight division.

“Big thank you to Scott Coker and Bellator for giving me this opportunity, I feel like I was on my way to becoming a champion but didn’t have the time or the star power… ” Sergio Pettis

“Bellator allows me to be myself and put no pressure on me, Allows me to put on these performances.” Sergio Pettis

I’m only a MMA journalist but hope Mike Kogan(Bellator Matchmaker) schedules a bout between Sergio Pettis vs Magomed Magomedov Summer of 2021. Clash of two different worlds and fighting styles!!

Bellator 258 Remains a STACKED CARD

Bellator 258 before the fight cancellations was a STACKED CARD with Yoel Romero vs Rumble Johnson, Patchy Mix vs James Gallagher, Lorenz Larkin vs Costello Van Steenis.

Many fight cancellations but Bellator 258 is one of the best Bellator cards in a while. Credit to the Bellator matchmakers for creating this card.

Exciting fights to watch, Future Bellator champions on the prelims. MAN I CAN’T WAIT I’m Genuinely Excited!!

Juan Archuleta vs Sergio Pettis

One of the best Bantamweights of 2021 so far the anticipated bout is happening, Wishing for this fight since Sergio Pettis signed with Bellator.

Juan Archuleta main training partner for TJ Dillshaw, Archuleta respected by TJ Dillashaw. Talks about how much he pushes it in practice, Makes him better. Juan Archuleta current Bellator Bantamweight Champion, Defending his title for the first time against Sergio Pettis.

Archuleta easily one of the best Bantamweights in the world just fights for Bellator so he doesn’t get the respect that he deserves but a win against Sergio Pettis gets the respect.

“He’s a well-rounded, household name that is gonna bring a fight and gonna test me to the limits. I’m excited to go to those limits, push past those limits, and he’s gonna challenge me as a martial artist,” Archuleta said. “He’s a prodigy, he’s been doing it at a young age and now he’s matured and now he’s ready to pick a game plan, stick to it and try to dictate it. And it’s my goal and my game plan to disrupt his rhythm, disrupt his path to a championship and continue on my quest.”

https://www.ocregister.com/2021/05/06/bellator-258-juan-archuleta-excited-for-sergio-pettis-challenge/

Sergio Pettis defeated Joseph Benavidez, Brandon Moreno, John Moraga in his UFC flyweight career. Signed with Bellator, Moving up to Bantamweight and looking better than ever defeated former CFFC Bantamweight Champion Ricky Bandejas.

“Any time we interact it’s always been love and respect man you know we ain’t got no bad blood towards each other at the end of the day this is business and you know that’s when things get interesting but yeah no bad blood towards each other. At the end of the day this is business and you know that when things get interesting.” Sergio Pettis

Juan Archuleta vs Sergio Pettis is a BANTAMWEIGHT Fight to Watch! Please watch this fight, Watching two talented fighters.

Raufeon Stots vs Josh Jill

Featuring Prelim of Bellator 258, Two Top Ten Bellator Bantamweights facing each other tonight. Both fighters need this fight to get one fight closer to pursuing the Bellator Bantamweight Title.

Raufeon Stots #4th ranked Bellator Bantamweight on a seven fight winning streak, Looking to make it eight fights defeating Josh Hill the former WSOF Bantamweight fighter. Stots a product of Roufusport MMA Academy training with Sergio Pettis, Emmanuel Sanchez on a daily basis.

Before MMA was a Division 2 All-American wrestler at Nebraska-Kearney. Mentored by the current UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman.

“I think Josh Hill is a very tough opponent,” Stots said. “I feel like we are both good at the same things, but I feel like I’m better at those things and better at putting them together.

https://www.mmaweekly.com/raufeon-stots-simply-plans-to-be-better-than-bellator-258-opponent

Josh Hill before Bellator was on Ultimate Fighter Season 18, Defeating Paddy Holohan. Went to WSOF after that and had fights against Marlon Moraes twice. In between World Series of Fighting fought in regional promotions.

“I thought we were going to line up eventually, no matter what,” Hill told MMA Junkie on Wednesday. “He was still on my mind, so I was glad we were matched up. He got a replacement fight and he got the win, so I looked at that, too. I got a little bit more tape, but I’m happy.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/05/bellator-258-video-josh-hill-raufeon-stots-title-eliminator-belt-next

Logan Storley

Division One All-American wrestler at Minnesota, Runner up for the Big Ten Championships as a freshman behind Ed Ruth. Bronze Medalist at 174 pounds multiple times in the NCAA Championship.

Now Storley is 11-1, Only loss is to Yaroslav Amosov the new version of Khabib Nurmagomedov as Yaroslav Amosov has a record of 25-0. Storley showed much improvement in this fight. Definitely should’ve held his head high. Losses suck but he went toe to toe with one of the best Welterweights in the world.

Training at Sanford MMA with Gilbert Burns, Vicente Luque, Jason Jackson, Aung La Nsang, Derek Brunson on a daily basis for training partners. Only get better training with these killers every week.

Storley first fight back from the Amosov lost, Facing Team Alpha Male product Omar Hussein. 8-2 record fought for Middle East promotion UAE Warriors.

” I always say I’m going to fight like I’m the number one ranked guy in the world.” Logan Storley

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_S4xQMZHz0I

Johnny Elben vs Daniel Madrid

Johnny Elben American Top Team product is 7-0 at 29 years old. Rising Bellator Middleweight Prospect.

“I think I’m going to get a finish. I don’t know which round it is. I’ll stick to the game plan and do what I need to do, and if I get the finish, I get the finish, if not I think I’ll get a unanimous decision.”

https://www.mmaweekly.com/johnny-eblen-thinks-hes-going-to-finish-daniel-madrid-at-bellator-258

Facing Daniel Madrid 18-6 Middleweight at 37 years old. Fought everywhere from Legacy Fighting Alliance, King of the Cage, M1-Challenge.

Daniel Madrid coming here to see if Eblen can win and is capable of becoming a Bellator Middleweight Champion one day. Daniel Madrid can ruin the hype and take advantage of the Bellator opportunity.

Rest of Bellator Fights to Watch

Patricky Pitbull, Older brother of Patricio Pitbull returning to the ring after tearing his ACL in his fight with Tofiq Musaev at Rizin 20. Patricky Pitbull facing Peter Queally in a Lightweight Clash. Pitbull Brothers Gym vs SBG Ireland BEEF happening.

The Lightweight Clash finally happening, Won’t be surprised if there’s pushing and shoving in the aftermath. It’s a good story overall.

Michael “Venom” Page finally facing tough competition in Derek Anderson, #6th Bellator Welterweight. Wins over Patricky Pitbull, Saad Awad and looks to crack Venom Page. Derek Anderson is no slouch as he enters this fight on a three winning streak, 17-3 record.

Lorenz Larkin vs Rafael Carvalho former Bellator Middleweight Champion. Larkin moving down to Welterweight but this will be a fun fight to WATCH. Crazy this fight is on the prelims.

Patchy Mix lost to Juan Archuleta in the Vacant Bellator Bantamweight Title fight but Mix is a grappling wizard. Watching artwork on it’s finest. He’s an all around talent with a 13-1 record. Super excited that Bellator signed him as he was the King of the Cage Bantamweight Champion.

Mix was supposed to fight James Gallagher but replacement fighter is former UFC fighter Albert Morales. Released from UFC than went on to become Lights Out Xtreme Fighting Bantamweight Champion.

Lyoto Machida protégé Weber Almeida is fighting

GREAT Bellator 258 Card

Please watch this CARD from start to finish, Bellator doing a really good job with matches the days of Tito Ortiz, Kimbo Slice, Ken Shamrock is over. Bellator is in a new era under Scott Coker.

Now Bellator can increase there viewership under Showtime.

Bellator 257 Stacked Card on Showtime

Bellator 257 is a STACKED card on Showtime Network. Headlined with Vadim Nemkov Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion one of the best Light Heavyweights in the world vs former UFC Light Heavyweight Phil Davis. First round of the Bellator Light Heavyweight Grand Prix.

Beginning to end there’s great fights, Highly recommend watching Bellator 257!! Many fights and fighters to watch.

Nemkov vs Davis

Vadim Nemkov since signing with Bellator in 2017 been on a tear defeating current UFC Heavyweight, Former PFL Heavyweight Champion Philipe Lins, Former Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion Liam McGeary, Former UFC Fighter Phil Davis, Former Bellator Middleweight Champion Rafael Carvalho and Ryan Bader.

Nemkov is Fedor Emelianenko protégé, Nemkov is one of the best Light Heavyweights in the world. Nemkov can beat Dominick Reyes, Aleksandr Rakic, Anthony Smith but he’s making a career with Bellator.

All-Around Special Talent at 28 years old, One of the best fighters in the world.

Phil Davis Former Penn State Four Time All-American Wrestler, Former UFC Light Heavyweight defeated Glover Teixeira, Lyoto Machida, Emmanuel Newton and many other talented fighters.

Davis has a loss against Nemkov but ignoring the loss, Time for revenge.

“I don’t care; I don’t care,” Davis told MMA Junkie. “For me to look back and think, ‘Oh, they should’ve gave that to me,’ that’s a waste of my time and my energy. I’ll never get better doing that. I’m all about getting better and winning fights, so why even calculate that into my existence? I’m good. Judges have a tough job. They said I didn’t win; I didn’t win.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2021/04/phil-davis-not-thinking-of-vadim-nemkov-loss-ahead-of-bellator-257-rematch

Daivs 36 years old, Making one more run for the Bellator Light Heavyweight title.

Julius Anglickas

Julius Anglickas former LFA Light Heavyweight Champion, 29 years old with a 9-1 record. 2-0 record with Bellator, Defeating Jordan Young and Alex Polizzi. Two high level Bellator Light Heavyweights. Anglickas not competing in the Bellator Light Heavyweight grand prix but is the #5th Bellator Light Heavyweight.

Watch out for Anglickas in 2021.

Steve Mowry

Steve Mowry Bellator Heavyweight Prospect, 8-0 record at 28 years old. Sanford MMA prospect trains with Michael Chandler, Gilbert Burns, Aung La Nsang, Vicente Luque, Jason Jackson, Anthony Johnson, Stefan Struve. Coached by Henri Hooft.

Mowry is one of my favorite Bellator prospects, He’s a very talented fighter. Talented technical boxer for a guy his size at six foot eight. Pieced apart Shawn Teed in his latest Bellator 249 fight.

Watch out for Steve Mowry in 2021.

Nemkov vs Karl Albrektsson

Viktor Nemkov 30-7 record, Older brother of Vadim Nemkov at 34 years old. Former M1 Light Heavyweight Champion, Former PFL fighter finally signs with Bellator in his Bellator debut against Karl Albrektsson.

Karl Albrektsson 27 years old 10-3 record former Rizin Light Heavyweight. Early win over Vadim Nemkov.

Saul Rogers vs Mads Burnell

Saul Rogers vs Mads Burnell is the FIGHT of the NIGHT Bellator 257. TWO of the best Bellator Featherweights facing each other in the second fight of Bellator 257. Which is crazy, Shows how stacked this card is!!

Saul Rogers 2-1 Bellator record 14-3 record at 31 years old. Ultimate Fighter 22 fighter, Defeated Billy Quarantillo, Ryan Hall, Marcin Wrzosek in his Ultimate Fighter exhibitions but because of visa issues wouldn’t fight in the Ultimate Fighter final. Easily would’ve been a Ulimate Fighter final winner and compete in the UFC right now but things in happen. Now fighting for Bellator.

Rogers lost to Daniel Weichel in a decision but was a GREAT fight. Weichel 39-11 record while Rogers had 15 pro fights. Rogers did well with striking that was a back & forth fight. Now Rogers can make a name of himself facing former UFC fighter Mads Burnell.

Mads Burnell 14-3 record 27 years old, 1-2 record with UFC but signed with Cage Warriors. Winning the Cage Warriors Featherweight title than signed with Bellator. Burnell on a five fight winning streak looking to make it six against Saul Rogers.

Mads Burnell taking advantage of the opportunity to fight for the 2nd best MMA promotion in the world. Defeating a VERY talented Saul Rogers helps in 2021, Looking for a Bellator Featherweight title.

Jay Jay Wilson

A lot of hype around the “Maori Kid” Jay Jay Wilson, Outstanding Jiu-Jitsu player. Black Belt World Champion at Alliance Jiu Jitsu under Johnny Faria at San Diego. 7-0 record at 23 years old defeated Ty-Wan Claxton, Sergio Debari and now facing Pedro Carvalho SBG Ireland prospect.

“[Carvalho] is definitely a big step up for me,” Wilson said. “He’s the biggest name I’ve fought, and I feel like I have more weapons to beat him.”

https://fansided.com/2021/04/13/street-fighting-prize-fighting-meet-bellators-jay-jay-wilson/

Toughest for the “Maori Kid”, However Jay Jay Wilson all around talent with developing striking skills. Will only get better from here with training!!

“I’m super excited about this fight,” Wilson told Cageside Press ahead of the fight. “[Carvalho]’s ranked the number four fighter, he’s no slouch. Fight camp has gone amazing, I’m feeling the greatest I’ve ever felt,” Wilson continued. “I’m ready to keep my undefeated streak going.”

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/04/13/bellator-257-jay-jay-wilson-believes-win-carvalho-deserves-shot-gold/

Jay Jay gets passed Pedro Carvalho would be a great start to 2021. Gradual hype for the future Bellator star.

Bellator 257

Overall Bellator 257 is a STACKED CARD top to bottom, One of the best Bellator cards in a while. Nemkov vs Davis, Corey Anderson second Bellator fight, Paul Daley vs Sabah Homasi, Steve Mowry, Viktor Nemkov.

Saul Rogers vs Mads Burnell Bellator Fight of the Night written all over it. TWO HIGH LEVEL fighters in a technical Featherweight Clash

PLEASE watch Belltor 257 helping out the fighters and Bellator becoming a close second to UFC.

Bellator Latest Signings Medonca & Mamedov

Bellator continues to add depth to there roster signing world class fighters consistently last few years. Newest signings are two killers from different countries that can become top five fighters in their division in the future. Bellator signed Maycon Mendoca and Islam Mamedov.

Maycon Mendoca

Maycon Mendoca Current LFA Welterweight Champion after defeating Batsumberel Dagvadorj in a Welterweight Clash that earned him the LFA Welterweight Title. He’s a very good all around fighter at 28 years old, 11-4 record. Five fight winning streak after a three fight losing streak.

Wanted Bellator to sign Mendoca because he’d a be a GREAT addition to the Bellator Welterweight Division. Future matchups against Jason Jackson, Jaleel Willis, Logan Storley.

Maycon Mendonca trains at KINGS MMA with Marvin Vettori, Kelvin Gastelum, Rafael Dos Anjos, Neiman Gracie.

Looking forward to Maycon Mendonca Bellator debut and who he matches up against.

“This guy’s a beast, man. I want to see this guy on a bigger show,” Neiman Gracie said.

https://www.dailynews.com/2021/04/13/bellator-signs-lfa-champion-maycon-mendonca/

Islam Mamedov

Islam Mamedov Russian Lightweight savage, Dagestan born and raised fought for Professional Fighters League with Eight PFL/WSOF wins. Defeating current PFL Lightweight Champion Natan Schulte, Former UFC fighter Thiago Tavares, Ylies Djiroun top French MMA prospect.

19-1 record, 31 years old entering Bellator in the prime of his career.

Mamedov is a combat sambo world champion, Ground & pound expert and looking to take his talents to Bellator. Competing with the best Lightweights from Patricky Pitbull, Goiti Yamaguchi. Training with Dagestan friends from Khabib, Islam, Umar, Usman and so many other great fighters.

Khabib replacing his father Abdulmunap as HEAD COACH, Trainer of Eagles MMA. Helping many Dagestan fighters achieve there MMA dreams. Looking to make Islam Mamedov a Bellator Lightweight title challenger.

Genuinely curious to see how Islam Mamedov matches up against Bellator Lightweight competition in July.

“I hope we’ll have fans again in the building in July,” Nurmagomedov stated. “I look forward to meeting the Bellator fans there and supporting Usman and Islam.”

Adam Borics vs the Winner of Pitbull vs Mckee Summer of 2021

Adam Borics the rising Bellator Featherweight on a three fight winning streak after defeating former UFC and PFL fighter Jeremy Kennedy at Bellator 256. Fighting in a very tactical three round fight where the trial of error is limited.

Best win of his MMA career so far. Dealing with a tough loss against Darrion Caldwell but continuing to mature and grow as a fighter with Sanford MMA, Down at Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“I’ve been going to Florida since 2017,” Borics told the media. “Every time I went, I was staying just one month. This time I stayed two and a half months. I want to be the best in the world. I have so much motivation, I dream big. At Sanford MMA we are a family.”

“I have the best coaches in the world at Sanford MMA, so I’m ready for everybody,” he excalimed Friday.

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/04/11/bellator-256-adam-borics-believes-featherweight-title-shot-next/

Training at Sanford MMA with Michael Chandler, Gilbert Burns, Formerly Kamaru Usman, Jason Jackson, Vicente Luque, Rumble Johnson, Martin Nguyen, Aung La Nsang and many more killers. Iron sharpens Iron, Makes everyone better including Adam Borics.

Now Borics is ready for a title, Awaiting the winner of Patricio Pitbull vs AJ McKee.

” I feel like I’m ready for a title shot I have eight or night fights with Bellator so yeah I would like to fight for the title next.”

“You know if it takes a while get back in there and Emmanuel Sanchez or someone else, Let’s see when’s the final.” Adam Borics

Hungry to fight three times a year, Looking to stay active instead of fighting once a year.

“I would like to fight one more or two times so I’m gonna fight just maximum three times a year because you know fighting in in 145 four times it’s a not easy cut you know.”

Cut is worth it fighting for the Bellator Featherweight title, Earning little more extra money because of a title fight. More sponsorship money.

Life changing fight if Adam Borics can defeat Patricio Pitbull or AJ McKee. Two of the best Featherweights in the world.

Summer of 2021 is when the Bellator Featherweight Grand Prix should happen then the winner faces Adam Borics during fall.

Makes sense for Borics to get one more fight in before a title shot, Facing Emmanuel Sanchez, Daniel Weichel to name a few fighters.

My ultimate goal is to become a world champion. After that, I’m definitely going to help the next generation.”

https://fansided.com/2021/04/08/bellator-256-adam-borics-looks-to-become-champ-inspire-next-generation-of-hungarian-mma/

Magomed Magomedov Top Five Opponent Next

Magomed Magomedov dominant performance at Bellator 255, Rear naked choke in the second round. Showing his talents against replacement Cee-Jay Hamilton as he was no match for the Russian killer.

Fight wasn’t even close as Magomedov suplexed Hamilton end of the first round. Constant pressure from grappling to ground & pound. Magomedov continues to impress me.

Magomedov ranked #5 in the new Bellator Bantamweight rankings but no way in hell he should be!! This dude is a stud and a half. Defeating Petr Yan once and having one of the best Bantamweight fights ever at ACB 57. Watched ACB 57, Twenty times so far because of the high level striking, sprawls, grappling exchanges. Every MMA fan needs to watch this fight.

“I should be even higher”

Fought two tough opponents in his Bellator career from Mattheus Mattos and Cee-Jay Hamilton. Time for a top five opponent.

“I would like to fight someone from the top five I want to fight forward, Want to tell Archuleta I’m coming for him.” Magomed Magomedov

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLtboV1uGac

Training with killers with Zabit Magomedsharipov, Marlon Moraes, Cody Garbrandt, Frankie Edgar, Eddie Alvarez and coached by one of the best MMA coaches Mark Henry. Respected A LOT by the MMA world and MMA fighters because of he’s a striking coach genius.

“I take a lot from him and he gave me a lot of advice. He showed me a lot of my mistakes on the ground. I would like to be on the ground like Khabib and on my feet like Zabit.”

“I’m grateful that they accepted me in their camp and allowed me to train with them. It was a great camp – you saw a lot of things on the ground tonight that I learned in this camp.

https://www.rt.com/sport/520040-magomed-magomedov-bellator-fight/

Magomedov Next Opponents?

Top Ten Bellator Bantamweights all facing each other at Bellator 258m Juan Archuleta is defending his Bellator Bantamweight Title for the first time against Sergio Pettis in a highly touted MMA fight to watch at Bellator 258. Magomedov can jump over the top five Bantamweights and challenge for a title next. I’d love to see Archuleta vs Magomedov, Constant pressure from both fighters. Two savages who train with some of the best fighters in the world as Archuleta trains with TJ Dillashaw, Cub Swanson and Brian Ortega.

Magomedov can face former UFC flyweight Sergio Pettis, Defeating a world class fighter. Former UFC fighter to build his legacy. Place his name on the map.

Third Slot Main Card fight is James Gallagher vs Patchy Mix which is a fight I’m very curious about to see how talented Gallagher is because Mix is no joke, Eyes on him for a while since his time as King of the Cage Bantamweight Champion.

Raufeon Stots vs Josh Hill Prelims of Bellator 258, Top Ten Bantamweights facing each other. Both highly skilled, World Class fighters. Every MMA fan needs to watch this fight. Josh Hill and Raufeon Stots are both underrated fighters. Stots Division 2 All-American wrestler at University of Nebraska- Kearney. Stots can be a challenge to Magomedov because of his wrestling background.

Stots before signing with Bellator was one of the best Bantamweight prospects. Josh Hill, Former Ultimate Fighter contestant, Former PFL fighter who defeated Bekbulat Magomedov. Two wins under Bellator defeating former UFC fighter Erik Perez & tough fighter Vinicius Zani.

Overall Magomedov deserves a top five opponent next, No disrespect to former opponents but he’s so good. All-Around special Dagestan talent. Future Bellator Bantamweight Champion and will see him win the title in 2021.

Bellator 255 Neiman Gracie vs Jason Jackson Fight of the Night

Bellator is back!! Bellator 255 is a stacked card from main event to prelims. Co Main Event Neiman Gracie vs Jason Jackson. Fight of the night written all over it. TWO of the best Bellator Welterweights facing each other.

Genuinely excited for this FIGHT, Two future Bellator Welterweight title challengers.

Neiman Gracie

“If it is done right, then I am glad Bellator is doing this,” Gracie told us. “It’ll be great to see who is fighting for a title, who should fight who next. To be a top five in the Bellator welterweight division is amazing, it is the toughest division in Bellator.” Neiman Gracie

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/03/31/bellator255-neiman-gracie-ready-for-title-contender-fight-with-jason-jackson/

Neiman Gracie part of the next generation of Gracie’s. Impressive wins upsetting Ed Ruth and defeating Jon Fitch. Lost to Rory MacDonald but showed a lot of promise. Neiman is now #3rd ranked Welterweight while Jason Jackson is #6 Bellator Welterweight.

Neiman obviously a great grappler but training at one of the best MMA gyms Kings MMA. Coached by Rafael Cordeiro one the best MMA coaches. Trained Anderson Silva, Wanderlei Silva, Shogun Rua, Rafael Dos Anjos, Rafael Dos Anjos. Neiman training with Marvin Vettori, Kelvin Gastelum, Rafael Dos Anjos during training weeks.

Gradually becoming one of the best Welterweights on the planet. Gradually improving his striking and overall game.

“I think what happens there is something that Master Rafael Cordeiro says, that champions just walk around with champions,” Gracie said. “We surround ourselves with people who have the same mentality and the same mindset and the same goal and everybody is pushing everyone forward. I think it makes a difference.”

https://www.ocregister.com/2021/03/31/bellator-255-neiman-gracie-out-to-prove-hes-more-than-a-name/amp/

“Jason’s a good opponent. He’s very good, he’s a good striker and he has a good takedown defense,” Gracie said. “I feel that he’s pretty good everywhere, but if I’m able to get the fight where I want and get the positions I w ant on the floor, I believe that nobody in the world is safe. And I can beat any one of them.”

https://www.ocregister.com/2021/03/31/bellator-255-neiman-gracie-out-to-prove-hes-more-than-a-name/amp/

Neiman can defeat a Penn-State All American wrestler, One of the best College Wrestlers he can stop Jackson’s takedowns.

Confident in his abilities if Jackson is on the floor, Jackson definitely will be in trouble there. Neiman looking forward to showing Bellator fans he’s READY for a title shot.

Jason Jackson

Jason Jackson former LFA Welterweight Champion and Titan FC Welterweight Champion. Pursuing to win the Bellator Welterweight Title. Becoming one of the best Welterweights on the planet. Training with some of the best Welterweights on the planet at Sanford MMA. Formerly with Kamaru Usman now trains at Trevor Witmann’s Gym. Trains currently with Gilbert Burns, Vicente Luque, Logan Storley and Michael Chandler.

No boring training partners as “Iron sharpens Iron”. All the hard sparring days leading to the success in his Bellator career. Split Decision lost to Ed Ruth than defeating Kiichi Kunimoto, Jordan Mein, Benson Henderson and look to defeat Neiman Gracie.

“It was an amazing feeling, knowing that I’ve seen this guy in every promotion there is and maintained top fighter [status],” Jackson told FanSided MMA. “So it’s a good feeling to know that [I have] a name like Benson Henderson under belt.”

https://fansided.com/2021/03/31/bellator-255-jason-jackson-feels-he-can-defend-well-against-neiman-gracies-grappling/

Expected Jason Jackson to be top 3 Welterweight easily, Replacing Neiman or Michael “Venom” Page. Time to prove the journalist wrong he’s a top three Welterweight.

I’m kind of confused myself by the rankings,” he continued, not understanding how he dropped to the #6 spot in the newly unveiled official rankings after the promotion originally had him ranked in the top five. “I’ve just got to fight. I’ve got a big opportunity to fight the number three guy, which I consider number one. And once I beat him, then there’s no more question.”

https://cagesidepress.com/2021/04/01/bellator-255-jason-jackson/

Jackson disadvantaged with the Jiu-Jitsu but training hard at Sanford MMA to make sure grappling won’t be an issue.

“No secret to that [Gracie’s strategy]. I have to be stingy, make him wrestle when I want to wrestle,” Jackson said. “Definitely been working with Rory MacDonald a lot get some good insight and working with the legend — Robbie Lawler — and working with the best striking coach, best wrestling coach. Sanford MMA’s got everything you need.

https://fansided.com/2021/03/31/bellator-255-jason-jackson-feels-he-can-defend-well-against-neiman-gracies-grappling/

Winning a fight, Co-Main Event Fight at Bellator 255 in front of a new audience at Showtime. Time to steal the show, Calling out Douglas Lima, Yaroslav Amosov. However NEEDS a Impressive Performance to win and get the respect he deserves.

Bellator Signs Shabily #1 Russian Lightweight

Alexander Shabily #1 Russian Lightweight prospect at 27 years old. 19-3 record. Shabily is one of the best Lightweights in the world, All-Around world class fighter. Happy for Scott Coker and Bellator to sign Shabily, Adding talent to the Bellator Lightweight Division.

Shabily trains at American Top Team, Training partner with PFL Lightweight Champion Natan Schulte, Dustin Poirier and Jorge Masvidal. Managed by Ali Abdelaziz. Overall a great team around him.

Shabily last loss was in 2016, Ever since that loss been on a tear winning fights for Russian promotions ProFC, Fight Nights Global and ACA.

Bold statement to make but I compare Shabily to his teammate Dustin Poirier. In way there similar with there stand up fighting style, Counter striking. Looking for holes.

Bellator signed a world class fighter, Future Bellator Lightweight Champion.

Next generation of fighters to prosper from American Top Team.

Interested to see Shabily fights, Sidney Outlaw, Adam Piccolotti, Nate Andrews. These fights come to mind, Bellator debut on the prelims. Bellator commentators hyping up Shabily as one of the best Bellator signings.

Bellator Future Stars

Bellator rapidly growing on a yearly basis signing free agents from Gegard Mousasi, Ryan Bader, Rory MacDonald and prospects like Aaron Pico, AJ McKee, Yaroslav Amosov and many other prospects.

Bellator roster top to bottom is second best in the world. Filled with future Champions, future stars that will take Bellator to the next level.

AJ McKee

AJ Mckee 17-0 record at 25 years old, Next generation of MMA fighters and Bellator is lucky to have him. Mckee a finalist in the Bellator Featherweight Grand Prix and a millionaire if he defeats Patricio Pitbull or Emmanuel Sanchez. Life changing win for AJ Mckee if he wins the final. World class talent, All-Around fighter. One of the best Featherweights in the world.

AJ McKee’s Bellator contract is expiring but Scott Coker needs to do whatever he can to sign McKee to a long term fight deal. Bellator has a star on there hands, Amount of sponsors McKee can attract for Bellator. Pay-Per View headliner with Showtime/Bellator.

Aaron Pico

Labeled “Lebron James of MMA” Aaron Pico is the next version of George St Pierre. MMA fans, MMA journalist were doubting his talents but now on a three fight winning streak defeating talented fighters. First MMA fighter of his kind, Gold Medalist wrestler at 2013 cadet world championship. Golden Gloves winner. #1 Amateur Boxer in California.

Proof is in the pudding that this kid is a world class fighter, That Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant mentality when it comes to winning. Future Bellator Featherweight Champion. Reign the division if AJ Mckee decides to leave and sign with UFC.

Dope to see Aaron Pico do a podcast with Joe Rogan, Rogan picking Pico’s brain. Hearing the stories of Freddie Roach complimenting Pico’s boxing.

Yaroslav Amosov

Since Khabib retired the most impressive MMA record to date is Yaroslav Amosov 25-0 record. Yaroslav in the prime of his career at 27 years old, Next five years are going to be fascinating to watch. Watching one of the best Welterweights fight for Bellator.

Douglas Lima vs Yaroslav Amosov Bellator Welterweight Title Fight I hope happens in 2021. Be one of the best Welterweight fights on paper. Amosov defeats Lima that will radically sky rocket his brand and name.

Yaroslav Amosov is one of my favorite fighters right now and 2021 will see his career rise to the next level. Defeating world class fighters like Lima, Larkin, Koreshkov in his MMA career.

Vadim Nemkov

Bellator Light Heavyweight Grand Prix begins in April of 2021. My favorite to win is Vadim Nemkov. Current Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion after defeating Ryan Bader in a masterful performance. Nemkov winning the Grand Prix will make him one of the biggest stars for Bellator.

Argument as the #1 Light Heavyweight in the world and Bellator has him. Next version of Fedor Emelianenko.

Usman Nurmagomedov

Usman Nurmagomedov, Khabib’s cousin is spoked highly of from Javier Mendez as the next Bellator superstar. One of the best fighters to come out of American Kickboxing Academy. Usman Nurmagomedov has a complete different fighting style compared to his cousin.

Usman is more of a Muay Thai fighter but constant pressure.

“Expect Usman to be the Luke Rockhold of Dagestan because the guy has got it all.”

https://www.insider.com/javier-mendez-on-new-generation-of-fighter-after-khabib-nurmagomedov-2020-10

Remember watching UFC embedded or Anatomy of Fighter… Daniel Cormier walking up to Usman Nurmagomedov and he said “I’ve heard great things about you.” Than gave Usman a big hug.

Mads Burnell vs Jeremy Kennedy Bellator 2021?

Bellator in a new era with signing with Showtime. Filling up Main Cards and prelims with GREAT fights. Mads Burnell vs Jeremy Kennedy two world class Bellator featherweights both with only one Bellator fight, Be a great fight to watch for the fans.

Mads Burnell former UFC fighter, Dominated Arnold Allen which says a lot about Burnell’s skills until getting submitted in the third round. After the loss to Arnold Allen is on a five fight winning streak. Winning the Cage Warriors Featherweight title.

“To be honest, I’ve been hot for Bellator for a couple of years. It was natural, and the opportunity was there. It was just natural. It was perfect,” said Burnell, who would later add that he believed Bellator to be “a super-cool promotion.”

https://cagesidepress.com/2020/10/09/bellator-248-mads-burnell-why-bellator/

World class grappler, 2014 No-Gi European Championship BJJ fights Jeremy Kennedy underrated Featherweight fought for UFC than signed with PFL. Impressive wins over Kyle Bochniak whose a savage, Steven Siler and Brazilian prospect Luis Rafael Laurentino.


Technical calculated fighter, Looks for the takedown as we see against Steven Siler. Picking the right shots. Bellator is lucky to have Jeremy Kennedy on there roster. He’s a world class fighter. Might be boring to watch but you can appreciate his skills.

“It’s a great time for me to come into Bellator. The winner of this [my fight] is going to already fought or be ahead of all these guys in the tournament. So I’m a new face, I’m a fresh face, someone that they haven’t seen and right away I can compete. Give me a top guy, beginning of next year, let the Grand Prix finish and we’ll see what goes on there after that.”

https://mmasucka.com/2020/11/20/jeremy-kennedy-i-can-come-in-right-away-and-be-a-threat/

Both Jeremy Kennedy and Mads Burnell will be trouble for the rest of the Bellator Featherweight division. Experienced fighters, World class fighters in the prime of there careers. Looking to make a name for themselves in the second best MMA organization in the world.

Ed Ruth vs Fabian Edwards Spring of 2021

Won’t give up on Ed Ruth just yet. Ed Ruth Penn State All-American Wrestler, One of the greatest College Wrestlers of All Time only has 11 Professional fights. 8-3 record, Two fight losing streak to Taylor Johnson which was a shocking loss.

Impressive loss against Yaroslav Amosov. Amosov is now one of the best Welterweights in the world.

Ed Ruth still has potential to be one of the best Bellator Middleweights and challenge for the title. Few Bellator fighters has the wrestling pedigree that Ed Ruth has. Wrestler mindset because of the grind of wrestling.

“My wrestling makes me feel way more comfortable, especially when I’m striking,” Ruth explained. “Just knowing that I got knocked down — OK, where’s that leg? I know I’m comfortable there. It’s almost like [Nate] Diaz. Diaz has his [Brazilian jiu-jitsu]. I’ve definitely wanted to work on my striking.

https://www.mmafighting.com/2020/2/21/21146157/ed-ruth-has-no-problem-being-patient-while-bellator-champ-douglas-lima-pursues-a-second-world-title

Seen the progression in Jason Jackson win, Loss to Amosov but had a tough loss to Tayler Johnson. Trains at American Kickboxing Academy one of the best MMA Gyms in the world. Grappling partner with Khabib. Learning from Javier Mendez, Daniel Cormier, Jon Fitch.

Hopefully with the mental improvement, Striking improvements will see a BETTER Ed Ruth. Ed Ruth next fight can be against Leon Edwards little brother Fabian Edwards. Coming off a loss to Costello Van Steenis.

Bellator returning in April, Moving to Showtime. Need some great fights to fill the Main Cards and prelims. Ed Ruth vs Fabian Edwards would be a great fight for both sides. Edwards defeating Ruth will help him rise through the Bellator Middleweight Rankings.

Ed Ruth wins against Edwards. Help Ruth in many ways. Bellator Middleweights will be on notice. Ruth 30 years old, Prime years ahead of him till 34 years old.

Looking forward to Ed Ruth 2021 Campaign and fighting Fabian Edwards which would be a GREAT fight to watch. Don’t give up on Ed Ruth can still grow and be one of the best Middleweights in the world.

Most Underrated MMA Fighters Part 3

Endless amount of underrated world class fighters all over the world. Champions who aren’t appreciated enough. Can make 10 parts of the most underrated MMA fighters in the world. By the way this is no specific order.

Vadim Nemkov

Vadim Nemkov, Fedor Emelianenko protege is the #1 Light Heavyweight in the world in my opinion. World class fighter. Since signing with Bellator defeated the best of the best with Phil Davis. Masterclass performance against Ryan Bader. Winning the Bellator Light Heavyweight title. Now competing in the Bellator Light Heavyweight Grand Prix. Nemkov 12-2 record.

Rafa Garcia

Rafa Garcia, Mexican version of Eddie Alvarez. Pitbull personified. Former Combate Americas Lightweight Champion, Only former because he wants to test free agency sign with UFC or Bellator. 12-0 record at 26 years old. One of the best Lightweights out there.

Juan Archuleta

Juan Archuleta signed with Bellator back in 2018, Becoming Bellator Bantamweight Champion. Training partner with TJ Dillashaw. Defending his title against Sergio Pettis. Win against Pettis will lead to Archuleta becoming one of the best Bantamweights in the world. Impressive 25-2 record. Looking forward to Juan Archuleta 2021 and 2022 season.

Sabina Mazo

Sabina Mazo former LFA Women’s Flyweight Champion, Trains at KINGS MMA is a rising UFC Women’s Flyweight. Colombian Assassin and one day will be a UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion. Extremely talented striker. Trains with Cris Cyborg. Only 23 years old, Plenty years ahead of her 9-1. Moving up to the Bantamweight division. 2021 is an important year for Sabina Mazo.

Felipe Froes

ACA Featherweight Champion, Felipe Froes about to reign the Featherweight division for couple years. Froes is a world class Featherweight, Happy he found a home in Russia. Great fights against Marat Balaev, Showing that DAWG in him like the Diaz Brothers and Jorge Masvidal. Very underrated Featherweight.

Andre Harrison #1 MMA Free Agent Available

Andre Harrison Former WSOF Featherweight Champion, Titan FC Featherweight Champion. One of the few fighters to defeat Lance Palmer is no longer fighting for the Professional Fighters League he’s a free agent. Many options for Andre Harrison and TAKE ADVANTAGE of the opportunity.

WSOF 35 Lance Palmer vs Andre Harrison Million views plus on YouTube. One of the most underrated MMA names to date.

One MMA promotion definitely will offer a high six figures, PPV Buys incentive contract and Andre Harrison will be more than happy to take it. Any promotion will be lucky to have him as well Andre Harrison top 40-top 50 Featherweight in the world.

Bellator & Harrison

#1 option for Andre Harrison is to sign with the second best MMA promotion in the world. Bellator is growing and growing, Featherweight division is stacked with Patricio Pitbull, AJ Mckee, Emmanuel Sanchez, Aaron Pico, Darrion Caldwell, Daniel Weichel and many more upcoming Featherweights.

Andre Harrison signing with Bellator would be one of the best Bellator signings. Long successful career with Bellator. Works both ways.

Saul Rogers Bellator underrrated Featherweight vs Andre Harrison is a fun fight to watch for a Bellator debut. Fighting Adam Borics as well. So many fight options for Andre Harrison if he signed with Bellator and they offer sweet deals. Addition to sponsorships.

Andre Harrison & One Championship

One Championship Featherweights division is for strikers, Grappling is there biggest weakness for most of them and if Andre Harrison wants to win Featherweight title for one of the best MMA organizations in the world I’d definitely sign with One Championship.

Andre Harrison striking has gotten better but with Harrison’s college wrestling background it would be easy pickens for him. Plus One Championship offered Eddie Alvarez multi-million dollar deal, Harrison would get a nice pay cheque.

Sick fights against Martin Nguyen, Thanh Le One Championship Featherweight Champion, Gary Tonon. Dominating that division for a while and making a lot more money than fighting for PFL.

KSW & Andre Harrison

KSW #1 European MMA promotion signing Andre Harrison would dramatically help KSW. KSW is underrated promotion as it become a feeder league for UFC with Mateusz Gamrot, Jan Blachowicz, Alexander Gustafsson signing there. Now it’s time for KSW to sign a big time free agent.

KSW Featherweight division has three killers, Salahdine Parnasse former KSW Featherweight Champion, Daniel Torres KSW Featherweight Champion, Max Coga who fought for PFL.

Me personally be a dream fight for Andre Harrison vs Salahdine Parnasse. Sign me up please!! Parnasse world class Featherweight who can beat most UFC Featherweights. Got hit with a lucky shot by Daniel Torres.

Brave CF & Andre Harrison

Middle East #1 promotion, Owned by Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa and the Bahrain Royal Family. Brave CF is a rapid growing MMA promotion with Khamzat Chimaev, Amir Albazi, Ottaman Azaitar and many others would be signing with BRAVE CF.

Andre Harrison signing with BRAVE CF would be life changing money, Fighting in front of sold out crowds. Earning millions of dollars.

Good fights against Lucas Martins, Akhmed Magomedov, Erick Da Silva. Brave CF continues to sign world class prospects around the world, Harrison if he wants competition will have many Featherweights to choose from.

Andre Harrison can be the face of Brave CF for the foreseeable future. Dream come true for Andre Harrison.

Magomed Magomedov vs Brett Johns Spring of 2021

Magomed Magomedov former ACB Bantamweight Champion defeated Matteus Mattos in his Bellator debut at Bellator 254. Dominant grappling win as he was only at “60%.”

“I felt great, but I feel like I was basically about 60 percent,” Magomedov told MMA Junkie through an interpreter at the Bellator 254 post-fight news conference. “I basically just showed that I could wrestle, but what I didn’t show was how I mix it up in the standup and so forth.”

https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2020/12/magomed-magomedov-i-was-only-able-to-show-about-60-percent-at-bellator-254

Curious to see what Magomedov is like at 100% against a world class fighter Brett Johns.

Yes Brett Johns fights for Bellator now since his UFC contract expired and like a SMART prizefighter tested free agency. Brett Johns 5-2 UFC record defeated Joe Soto, Tony Gravely, Five round losses to Aljamain Sterling and Pedro Munhoz.

What a welcoming debut for Brett Johns to fight Magomed Magomedov easily one of the best Bantamweights in the world.

Brett Johns defeats Magomed Magomedov in the Spring of 2021 that will move him up in the Bantamweight rankings and qualify in the Bantamweight grand prix if there was one in 2021.

Magomedov wins that shows he can defeat another UFC fighter as he’ll be on watch by Juan Archuleta as a future Bellator Bantamweight title challenger.

Bantamweight fight to schedule in 2021 I hope to see this dream fight become a reality. High level grappling, striking by two of the best Bantamweights in the world.

Aaron Pico vs Adam Borics 2 Spring of 2021

Aaron Pico rejuvenated since switching gyms to Jackson Wink MMA Academy. Three fight winning streak leading into 2021 wants to revenge his losses against Henry Corrales vs Adam Borics.

Adam Borics is highly touted trains out of Sanford MMA, Bounced back strong after the hard loss to Darrion Caldwell.

Henry Corrales is a solid fighter but Adam Borics is even better. Aaron Pico vs Adam Borics in April, May of 2021 would a GREAT fight for both fighters.

Aaron Pico REVENGES his loss to Adam Borics, Showing the continued haters and doubters that he can DEFEAT world class Featherweights.

“I would love to fight Adam Borics.” Aaron Pico interview with MyMMANews

” I wanna start making my revenge tour for sure, I’m not a good loser, I don’t like losing. I grabbed my nuts and fought those guys when I knew nothing I fought Henry Corrales when I only had what six fights I fought Adam Borics only had like seven fights these guys had way more experience.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnM19xdFj9A

Adam Borics can continue his winning streak and ends.. Aaron Pico’s. On paper this a sick fight to watch, Storyline behind this fight would be entertaining to watch if Bellator markets and story tells correctly.

On the other hand Aaron Pico is a monster and finally now reaching his potential. Next George St Pierre and with a revenge win against Adam Borics is a win in the right direction.

Spring of 2021 Aaron Pico vs Adam Borics two of the best Bellator Featherweight prospects.

Bellator Bantamweight Grand Prix 2021

Bellator Bantamweight division number one or number two most talented division in Bellator. Leading with Juan Archuleta Bellator Bantamweight Champion, Sergio Pettis, Magomed Magomedov Former ACB Bantamweight Champion, James Gallagher, Patchy Mix and many more talented Bantamweights.

Since the division is STACKED top to bottom, Many dream fights to schedule in 2021 why not have a Bellator Bantamweight Grand Prix?

Time to create one since the Heavyweight division and now the Featherweight division is almost done with there tournament.

“I’ll tell you, I think we have some choices here,” he said when asked what weight class might get the nod for the next tournament. “I think that everybody’s in contention as far as weight class. I think we have two or three different divisions, we just haven’t decided yet.” https://cagesidepress.com/2020/12/14/bellator-254-scott-coker-grand-prix-next/

Bellator Featherweight Grand Prix finals are next with AJ Mckee waiting for the Patricio Pitbull vs Emmanuel Sanchez fight. After the Bellator Featherweight Grand Prix Finals is over, Scott Coker should announce the next Grand Prix… Bantamweight Grand Prix.

Broadcast move to CBS Sports Network help the Bellator tremendously in the next five years, Most importantly help the fighters BRANDS. Many of the Bellator Bantamweights don’t have the recognition and all eyes on them with a Grand Prix. Headlines of surprising upsets and the stories behind the fighters.

To be honest with you it’s a no brainer from Bellator’s standpoint. MMA fans will be watching high level fights from Juan Archuleta fighting Magomed Magomedov, Brett Johns vs James Gallagher, Sergio Pettis vs Raufeon Stots. I can literally make a LONG list of matches because how stacked the division is.

Casual fans, Yes even them will truly appreciate the talent of the Bantamweight fighters. What they bring to the cage. High level fighting at it’s finest.

Depending on the Covid-19 situation invite Kyoji Horiguchi Rizin Bantamweight Bantamweight Champion, Kai Asakura Former Rizin Bantamweight Champion to the Grand Prix which would be SICK to watch. Makes the Bellator Bantamweight Grand Prix even more interesting… Seeing who the #1 Bellator Bantamweight is and one of the best Bantamweights in the world.