R. Bader can win the second belt in Bellator. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ryanbader
Ryan bader prepare to face Fedor Emelianenko for the vacant heavyweight belt in the final of the category's GP at Bellator 214. The clash will be the main fight of the event held on January 26th in Inglewood (USA). During a conversation with the press, the American was asked if he would put the light heavyweight title up for grabs against Lyoto Machida. The division champion stated that he wants to have a rematch against the Brazilian in the future.
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“I had no idea what the hell I was doing back then (2012) – I don't even remember how many years it was, but I would definitely like to have that back and it's a great fight. I'm looking to get into those big fights. I have a fight coming up and we’ll see what happens, but that’s a fight I definitely want,” Bader said.
The first meeting between Bader and Machida took place in August 2012 at UFC Los Angeles. The Brazilian got the better of him and beat the North American by knockout at 1m32s of the second round.
In recent years athletes such as Phil Davis, Machida, Quinton 'Rampage'Jackson, Tito Ortiz e Chael Sonnen who were standouts in the UFC signed a contract with Bellator and compete or competed in the light heavyweight division. Considering this, Bader believes it is a strong category and does not have a favorite to be the next to fight for the belt.
“I haven't really thought much about it [the next rival], but Bellator is doing a great job attracting these high-level guys. We are treated well here, we have opportunities. For example, being able to fight in this Grand Prix”, said Ryan.
Even planning the future, Bader is focused on winning and winning Bellator's second belt over Emelianenko.
“I have to go there, win this fight to have two belts and that is my focus now”, concluded the former UFC fighter.
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