Bellator Champ Ryan Bader values fight with Vadim Nemkov

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.

So when facing the unknown-but-dangerous Nemkov, Bader may not have as much to gain, but he knows it would make for a valid victory nonetheless.

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Roberto Villa

Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer.