Ryan Bader Makes History with Victory over Fedor Emelianenko at Bellator 214
In an electrifying match at The Forum, Ryan Bader secured the Bellator Heavyweight Grand Prix title with a lightning-fast left hook, right hand combination that brought down the legendary Fedor Emelianenko in just 35 seconds. This monumental victory elevated Bader, hailing from Arizona, to the ranks of champ-champ in the ever-growing fight league under media giant VIACOM. The bout was broadcast live on Paramount with DAZN providing OTT streaming for fans to witness this historical moment.
With Emelianenko’s record now standing at 38-6 and Bader claiming his 27th win, the humble victor praised his opponent, acknowledging Emelianenko as one of the best to grace the sport. “To win the heavyweight title against that man . . .” Bader remarked during his post-fight interview.
Reflecting on his performance, the 35-year-old revealed his strategic preparation and dedication to perfecting his left hook, a pivotal move that led to Emelianenko’s downfall. “I was trying to keep [those thoughts] away . . . not only that, there’s a lot at stake with the title on the line,” Bader shared.
Looking ahead, Bader expressed his readiness to defend both titles, showcasing a determination to solidify his reign in Bellator. CEO Scott Coker commended Bader’s skills, placing him in the top tier of MMA fighters and recognizing his evolving striking abilities. The future holds promising challenges for the new double champion as he sets his sights on continued success.
Kosport Magazine Summary:
Ryan Bader’s remarkable victory over Fedor Emelianenko at Bellator 214 cements his status as a champ-champ in the MMA world. With a swift finish and strategic prowess, Bader proves his potential for dominance in both light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions. As he looks towards defending his titles, the MMA realm eagerly anticipates Bader’s next moves and potential matchups.
