Russian heavyweight Fedor Emelianenko makes his long-awaited return to action against Tim Johnson when Bellator 269 heads to Moscow on Saturday.
There’s also heavyweight action in the co-main event when Vitaly Minakov and Said Sowma square off. At the same time, lightweight Usman Nurmagomedov and Patrik Pietila are slated to meet further down the card.
Johnson to Boost Title Claims
Johnson’s three-fight winning streak came to an end in June when he lost to Valentin Moldavsky for the interim heavyweight title at Bellator 261.
That was the American’s first shot at a belt since signing for Bellator in 2018, and he came away on the wrong side of a decision.
Saturday’s bout with Emelianenko offers the perfect opportunity to get back on the winning track as the Russian returns to the cage for the first time in 22 months.
The 45-year-old former title-contender hasn’t been seen since earning a TKO victory over Quinton Jackson at Bellator 237 in Japan.
Emelianenko has a reputation for getting business done early, finishing six of his last seven wins inside the first round.
Due to his inactivity, The Last Emporer is likely to go hunting another early stoppage, but Johnson should be trusted at 10/17 if he can stay out of danger in round one.
Ground Game Key for Minakov
Minakov’s return to action is also highly anticipated as he prepares to take on #8 Said Sowma in the co-main event.
The Russian suffered his first and only career defeat at the hands of Cheick Kongo at Bellator 216, but he bounced back to defeat the aforementioned Johnson at Bellator 255.
That win against Johnson, now ranked #2 in the division, clearly demonstrates his credentials, and he should have too much for Sowma.
He boasts an impressive 13 victories by KO/TKO in his 23-fight career, but it’s his seven wins by submission that’s worth taking note of ahead of this weekend.
Sowma’s ground game doesn’t match up, and Minakov should be able to assume complete control if he manages to secure a takedown.
Nurmagomedov to Extend Winning Streak
Nurmagomedov – the cousin of former UFC lightweight champion Khabib – is certainly carrying the family name proudly and looks set to take his record to 14-0 on Saturday.
It’s no surprise to see the #7 ranked Dagestan fighter as short as 1/100 to come out on top against 11/1 Pietila.
As a professional, the Finnish underdog is 11-8 and comes into this fight off the back of a decision loss to Ryan Rodder at Bellator 227.
Much like Khabib, Usman is a hugely talented grappler, but he hasn’t had to fall back on those attributes yet in his career, winning just three of his fights by submission.
He has ended eight of his 13 bouts by KO/TKO and should be able to add to that column in front of a home crowd.
*Odds correct at time of writing.