Before the first event of the new Bellator Champions Series, the mixed martial artists set to battle in Belfast, Ireland have expressed confidence in their chances for their respective bouts.
The fighters spoke to the media on a Zoom video conference from the site of Friday’s fight.
In the main event, Corey Anderson will face Karl Moore for the vacant Bellator light heavyweight championship.
Anderson stressed his goals and satisfaction with his career progression saying, “I aim to be the best and dominate this show. I feel like I am finally getting what I deserve with Bellator which I didn’t get at UFC.”
Moore believes he is prepared for the bout and doesn’t feel any pressure saying, “I never feel pressure, and everything else is just noise. My whole life has been dedicated to this moment.”
In the co-main event, Bellator featherweight Champion Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire will defend his title against Jeremy Kennedy.
Freire believes he has more to lose but he is excited for the fight.
“I have more to lose than to gain because my legacy is on the line. Breaking records and fighting champions excite me,” he said.
His opponent, Kennedy also expressed confidence to be the champion saying, “I am confident I will take the belt. I want people to know I am a champion, and I want to stay the champ.”
Nate Kelly, an amateur 130-Pound catchweight fighter, expressed confidence in his training saying, “I’ve been training really well, and I know it’ll be a finish in this fight (against Jordan Elliot).”
Speaking next was Nathan Kelly, a featherweight fighter scheduled to battle Singh Ruhil, who emphasized his focus on preparation and his intention to secure another victory.
“All I can do is prepare as best as I can and take another head from the fight. That’s what I intend to do on Friday,” he said.
“In my camp, I have put in a bit more work with a boxing coach because I actually have a grappling background so I am trying to transition the boxing into my MMA. I am just trying to be relaxed and do my best on the night,” he added.
Leandro Higo expressed anticipation for his fight against James Gallagher saying, “We’ve been wanting this fight for a long time, and finally, this Friday, the fans are in for a treat.”
His opponent, Gallagher, believes his opponent is not prepared for the upcoming battle.
“I bring a certain mindset and skillset that he has not experienced. He is hoping that I am not going to show up, but he is going to meet someone who really loves fighting,” Gallagher said.
Ciaran Clarke, a bantamweight fighter, reflected on his training camp and excitement for the fight against Darius Mafi, saying,”The camp went great, I’ve done all I can to prepare for this fight. The goal is to keep getting better and reap the rewards.”
Bellator middleweight number one contender Fabian Edwards acknowledged his opponent Aaron Jeffery’s fighting style.
“He is a come forward fighter that likes to bring on the pressure and I think he really suits me as an opponent because I am a clean striker.
Edwards stated that he simply needs to win.
Jeffery talked about his ambitions following the fight, saying, “I should have the opportunity to challenge the champion after this match.
“Every fight is unique, so you have to approach each one individually, but I believe I can defeat him in the cage.
Considering the determination and confidence shown by the fighters, the Bellator Champions Series is expected to be an exciting event, with fans eagerly anticipating exciting matchups and memorable moments in the cage.
