NEW YORK – Ryan Bader is facing a lesser-known opponent in his next outing, but he’s just as motivated as he would be for a famous foe. Bellator dual-champ Bader (27-5 MMA, 5-0 BMMA) will defend his light heavyweight title for the first time since 2017 when he takes on Russian prospect and Fedor Emelianenko protege Vadim Nemkov (11-2 MMA, 4-0 BMMA) in the main event of Bellator 242 on May 9 in San Jose, Calif. Bader, who also holds Bellator’s heavyweight belt, has faced an array of legends and notable names in his past few outings at heavyweight, including a knockout win over Emelianenko to claim the heavyweight title in the grand prix.
Link:
Why Bellator champ-champ Ryan Bader values fight with rising prospect Vadim Nemkov – MMA Junkie