Bellator’s recent signing spree continues. This time, a major Russian star has inked a multi-fight deal with the promotion — one who owns a victory over a current UFC champion.
Former ACB bantamweight champion Magomed Magomedov has signed a contract to fight for the promotion, Bellator president Scott Coker announced in an interview with CBS Sports on Wednesday.
“We’re very excited for this signing of Magomed Magomedov,” Coker said. “My team and I continue to search the planet for the top up-and-coming-fighters and we feel that Magomedov has the potential to be a world champion in the sport.”
Magomedov (16-1 MMA, 0-0 BMMA) is the only man to hold a win over current UFC bantamweight champion Petr Yan. The two Russians have fought twice, with each emerging victorious once.
After beating Yan by split decision at ACB 32 in March 2016, Magomedov lost a rematch by split decision at ACB 57 in April 2017.
Since his rematch loss, Magomedov, 28, has only competed three times, winning all three fights. His most recent outing came at ACB 90 in November 2018 when he defeated Walter Perreira Jr. by first-round guillotine choke.
Of 16 pro victories, Magomedov has finished 11. In addition to Yan, his notable wins include Said Nurmagomedov and Damian Stasiak.
Bellator has not yet announced a date or location for his promotional debut.
