Newly announced Bellator MMA signing Gegard Mousasi will face Alexander Shlemenko at Bellator 185. The veterans will meet for the first time with both fighters having 50 fight or more on their respective records.
Mousasi made a shock switch to Bellator MMA from the UFC on July 10 in a move which left mixed martial arts fans startled. The signing shows a clear statement of intent from Scott Coker and adds yet another reputable name to the promotions’ ranks.
In Shlemenko, Mousasi will face a fellow striker, a fellow veteran and a man in his prime, making for a mouth-watering match-up. With five consecutive victories and not a loss on his record since 2014, the Russian should prove a stern test to the Dutchman.
For Mousasi, five consecutive victories against such high-calibre opposition will no doubt make him a favourite for the match-up and many eyes will be watching the 34-year-old to see if he can assert his dominance in the Bellator middleweight division.
Each fighter has only been knocked out once in their career, which makes for interesting viewing given the striking and ruthlessness that each fighter brings to the cage with them. Mousasi will be looking to impress on his debut and prove he is one of the best middleweights on the planet.