Dagestani bantamweight Magomed Magomedov came to Bellator with quite the reputation.
A former Absolute Championship Berkut champion, Magomedov had built an impressive record fighting largely in his native Russia, and he also had bragging rights as the only man to ever defeat current UFC champ Petr Yan. But would that success translate to the Bellator cage?
As it turned out, the answer was a resounding, “Yes.”
Magomedov debuted for the promotion at this past December’s Bellator 254, which took place at the venue the organization has dubbed the “FightSphere,” Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.
Drawing the unenviable task of welcoming Magomedov (17-1 MMA, 1-0 BMMA) to the promotion was Brazilian Matheus Mattos (12-2-1 MMA, 0-1 BMMA), who was able to flash his durability and heart throughout the 15-minute contest, but only because he was constantly on defense. Magomedov’s relentless grappling proved insurmountable, and he was ultimately awarded a clearcut decision win, though he’d later express some disappointment in his performance and promise better in future appearances.
Check out a complete replay of the first fight, courtesy of Bellator MMA, in the video above.
