Fedor Emelianenko vs “Rampage” Jackson to headline Bellator Japan
Russian Fedor Emelianenko and American “Rampage” Jackson became legends in Japan, now they are returning.
Bellator just announced a huge, heavyweight main event set for the promotions upcoming event in Tokyo, Japan, December 29th. Russian heavyweight legend Fedor Emelianenko will face former UFC champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson in the main event at Bellator vs Rizin. The bout will be contested at heavyweight.
“For Bellator’s debut in Japan, we wanted to bring a massive event and fighters that the Japanese fans really connect with,” Bellator President Scott Coker said in a press release. “Given the vast history of martial arts and MMA in Japan, and especially at Saitama Super Arena, this will be a very special show that no one will want to miss. This will, unquestionably, be a monumental event for Bellator and I am looking forward to the moment that Fedor and ‘Rampage’ walk out to a crowd that has known them since their careers began. I would also like to thank RIZIN for their help in making this event a possibility and we look forward to working together in the near future to showcase the best talent each organization has to offer.”
Emelianenko returned from retirement in 2015, and signed with Bellator in 2017. He entered the heavyweight Grand Prix, defeating both Frank Mir and Chael Sonnen via first round knockout. He was then himself knocked out in the finals by tournament winner Ryan Bader.
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“Rampage” has been fighting in Bellator since his return to the promotion in 2016. As of now he’s 2-2 in his last four bouts, with both losses coming via unanimous decision. His loss against the above mentioned Sonnen took him out of the heavyweight tournament. In his latest outing, he knocked out arch rival Wanderlei Silva via knockout in the second round.
Who wins the heavyweight match up: Fedor or “Rampage”?
