In a few days, Bellator MMA will finally return to action for Bellator 255. The card is headlined by the Featherweight World Grand Prix title fight between Patricio Pitbull and Emmanuel Sanchez. The card, which is to air for the first time on Showtime, is loaded with talent. Here are five fighters to keep an eye on ahead of Bellator 255.
5 Fighters to Watch Ahead of Bellator 255
Magomed Magomedov
Magomed Magomedov made a successful Bellator debut at Bellator 254, where he earned a unanimous decision nod over Matheus Mattos. Magomedov (17-1) used his wrestling skills to outwork Mattos on the mat and his unique striking style to cause problems for Mattos on the feet. Magomedov will likely look to do the same against his opponent, Cee Jay Hamilton, in his sophomore Bellator bout.
Matt Mitrione
Since defeating Roy Nelson in 2018, Matt Mitrione has been winless. Losing his last fight to Tim Johnson at Bellator 243, the former Purdue University football star looks to flip the script against Tyrell Fortune on April 2. This fight could very well be a make or break moment for the Illinois native, and could very well determine whether Mitrione should consider retirement.
Kana Watanabe
After nearly a year and a half layoff due to COVID related issues, Kana Watanabe will make her return to MMA. In her last bout, the 32-year-old flyweight took out Ilara Joanne at Bellator 237 late in the third round. Watanabe will square off against Alejandra Lara in a fight that certainly has high stakes in the flyweight division.
Usman Nurmagomedov
Usman Nurmagomedov will make his Bellator and North American debut against Mike Hamel in a lightweight contest. Hamel will look to play spoiler against the highly touted cousin of Khabib Nurmagomedov, who has strung together an undefeated professional record of 11-0. Known for his ability to finish his opponents, do not be surprised to see this one finish without the need for judges.
Emmanuel Sanchez
Emmanuel Sanchez will fight the biggest fight of his life against Patricio Pitbull in the main event for the Bellator Featherweight World Title. The pair have met once before in a fight that Pitbull took by unanimous decision in November 2018 at Bellator 209. Since that fight, Sanchez has enjoyed a three-fight win streak, knocking off Georgi Karakhanyan, Tywan Claxton, and Daniel Weichel. Pitbull, on the other hand, suffered his last loss nearly five years ago and is on a six-fight win streak. This fight promises fireworks and is certainly one you will not want to miss.
Bellator 255 on April 2
Bellator 255 is just around the corner. What fight are you most excited about? What fighter are you keeping an eye on? Let us know down below!
