PFL vs. Bellator: On Saturday, MMA fans will witness a historic event as fighters from PFL and Bellator clash in a monumental pay-per-view extravaganza. This event marks the first cross-promotional card since PFL’s acquisition of Bellator in November 2023.
Despite some setbacks with fighters dropping out, the card promises exhilarating matchups, with two battles of current champions taking the spotlight. Renan Ferreira (PFL) faces off against Ryan Bader (Bellator) in the heavyweight division, while Impa Kasanganay (PFL) takes on Johnny Eblen (Bellator) at 185 pounds in a light heavyweight showdown.
“This is a monumental event for MMA. Fans have been craving these super fights, and we’re delivering,” stated Ryan Bader during the announcement press conference. “It’s rare to see organizations risk their champions in such matchups, but we’re embracing it. I’m thrilled to compete in Saudi Arabia and seize another belt. The entire card is stacked, and I’m ready for this significant opportunity.”
The undercard boasts more champions, including Bellator welterweight titleholder Jason Jackson squaring off against former two-time PFL season champion Ray Cooper III. Additionally, fans can anticipate a captivating matchup between 2021 PFL heavyweight champion Bruno Cappelozza and former Bellator light heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov, who makes his heavyweight debut. Another highlight is the clash between former UFC title contenders Thiago Santos and Yoel Romero at light heavyweight.
“This event presents an unprecedented spectacle in MMA,” commented PFL CEO Peter Murray. “With PFL champions facing off against Bellator champions, we’re offering fans a truly unique experience. This is just the beginning, as we plan to make this an annual tradition, kicking off each season with a blockbuster event showcasing the best of both PFL and Bellator. It’s like MMA’s All-Star Game, and we’re committed to its long-term success.”
The action unfolds at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with prelims commencing at noon ET on ESPN+, followed by the main card at 3 p.m. on PPV.
Champion vs. Champion Showdowns:
1. Heavyweight Bout: Renan Ferreira (PFL) vs. Ryan Bader (Bellator)
- Prediction: Ryan Bader by decision.
- Odds: Bader (-150), Ferreira (+120).
2. Light Heavyweight Bout: Impa Kasanganay (PFL) vs. Johnny Eblen (Bellator)
- Prediction: Impa Kasanganay by TKO.
- Odds: Kasanganay (-130), Eblen (+110).
Undercard Highlights:
1. Welterweight Bout: Jason Jackson (Bellator) vs. Ray Cooper III (PFL)
- Prediction: Jason Jackson by unanimous decision.
- Odds: Jackson (-160), Cooper (+130).
2. Heavyweight Bout: Bruno Cappelozza (PFL) vs. Vadim Nemkov (Bellator)
- Prediction: Vadim Nemkov by submission.
- Odds: Nemkov (-140), Cappelozza (+110).
3. Light Heavyweight Bout: Thiago Santos vs. Yoel Romero
- Prediction: Thiago Santos by knockout.
- Odds: Santos (-120), Romero (+100).
With an electrifying lineup and champions from both promotions putting their titles on the line, PFL vs. Bellator promises to be a night of unforgettable MMA action. Don’t miss out on this historic event!
PFL vs. Bellator:
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