The first semi-final bout for the Bellator Heavyweight World Grand Prix has been announced for Friday, October 12 as light heavyweight champion Ryan Bader faces Matt Mitrione.
Bader (25-5-0) earned his spot in the semi-finals of the grand prix by defeating King Mo by first round TKO at Bellator 199. Bader became the Bellator MMA Light Heavyweight Champion when he defeated fellow UFC veteran Phil Davis by decision at Bellator 180. Bader hasn’t suffered a defeat in over two years, with that latest loss coming to Anthony Johnson at UFC On Fox 18.
Mitrione (13-5-0) punched his ticket to the grand prix semi-finals after picking up a decision win over Roy Nelson at Bellator 194. Mitrione has been undefeated under the Bellator MMA banner and that includes a win over Fedor Emelianenko at Bellator 180. Mitrione has picked up a total of 13 wins as a professional MMA fighter, but he has yet to get a victory by way of submission.
Bellator MMA: Bader vs. Mitrione takes place on Friday, October 12 from the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut with Ryan Bader and Matt Mitrione headlining. Fightful is providing live coverage of the event, which airs live on the Paramount Network.
