If Chael Sonnen wanted Ryan Bader’s attention, then mission accomplished.
Sonnen (30-16-1 MMA, 2-2 BMMA), who meets Lyoto Machida (25-8 MMA, 1-0 BMMA) on Friday at Bellator 222, had some bold words about current Bellator light heavyweight champion Bader (27-5 MMA, 5-0 BMMA) in an interview with MMA Junkie prior to the event.
The fight between Sonnen and Machida is a likely title eliminator at 205 pounds, but Sonnen said he’s hesitant about taking on the champion because of a legitimate disdain. He said Bader would have to “beg” for him to serve as a challenger, which is a rather unique perspective.
Bader is calling foul, though, because he merely thinks Sonnen is trying to lull him into a fight. If that’s the case, it has apparently worked (via Instagram):
“Beg” a 42 yr old mma analyst??? 😂@sonnench knows he can’t sniff a title shot by actually competing and earning one so he runs his mouth to bait me. Well congrats I’m here, IF you happen to get by Machida I’ll gladly gift you the fight and watch you fold up just like your last fight #fedor @bellatormma
Regardless of who wins at Bellator 222, though, Sonnen or Machida won’t be the next fight for Bader. The dual-division champion is penciled in to defend his heavyweight championship before moving back date, and a date with Cheick Kongo is expected for late summer, according to Bellator President Scott Coker.
If Sonnen is coming off a win and available after that, though, it appears that Bader is on board for the fight.
For more on Bellator 222, check out the MMA Rumors section of the site.
