Vadim Nemkov has vacated his Bellator light heavyweight championship to focus on the heavyweight division, with his next fight scheduled against ex-PFL champion Bruno Cappelozza on Feb. 24 in Saudi Arabia.
Vadim Nemkov has dropped his Bellator light heavyweight title. That’s right, folks. Bellator’s bigwigs confirmed to MMA Fighting that Nemkov’s ditching the 205-pound belt. His sights are set on the heavyweight division now.
And he’s not wasting any time either. He’s got a face-off with ex-PFL champ Bruno Cappelozza on the books. This clash is set for the PFL vs. Bellator card on Feb. 24, happening in Saudi Arabia.
The first to spill the beans? MMA Junkie.
So, what’s the deal with the Bellator light heavyweight title? As of now, it’s up for grabs. But don’t worry, a new champ will be crowned in 2024.
Nemkov’s record with Bellator? Unbeaten in 10 fights. He’s steamrolled the light heavyweight division, bagging wins over ex-champ Ryan Bader, Corey Anderson, and Yoel Romero. After his victory over Romero, he hinted at a move to heavyweight. The reason? The weight cut to 205 pounds was getting too tough.
And now, he’s making good on that promise. His heavyweight comeback will kick off the 2024 fight schedule.
Nemkov’s no stranger to the heavyweight division. Remember the RIZIN Grand Prix? He suffered a loss to future UFC champ Jiri Prochazka in the semis.
Now, he’s heading back to familiar territory. The heavyweight division is where he plans to hang his hat.
As for the vacant light heavyweight title? No word yet on when Bellator will crown a new champ. But with several international events lined up in 2024 after PFL’s acquisition, we’re sure to see some action soon.