Austin Vanderford gets his first shot at Bellator gold in 2022.
The fighter will challenge Gegard Mousasi for the middleweight belt on February 25. The bout was first reported by MMA Junkie.
Vanderford and Mousasi will meet in Dublin, Ireland and the 3Arena.
The unbeaten Vanderford has for years been known in the sport for his relationship with Paige VanZant. However, Vanderford now gets the opportunity to make a name for himself.
A perfect 11-0, he secured his spot as the top contender with a win over Fabian Edwards. That marked his fifth consecutive since joining Bellator.
Mousasi is in his second run as Bellator champion. The legendary fighter won the belt from Rafael Carvalho in 2018 and again in 2020.
After defending vs. Rory MacDonald, Mousasi fell to Rafael Lovato Jr. via majority decision. He earned a split over Lyoto Machida and won the vacant belt with a decision vs. Lima.
In August, Mousasi defended vs. John Salter, scoring a third round TKO.
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