Tomorrow night in the co-main event of Bellator 258, we will see the return of Anthony “Rumble” Johnson (22-6). Rumble returns for the Light Heavyweight Grand Prix and he meets Bellator newcomer Jose Augusto (7-2, 1 NC) tomorrow night.
Originally, Yoel Romero was supposed to take on Rumble in the Grand Prix. However, last week we learned that Romero didn’t pass pre-fight medicals. With that, he was pulled from the Bellator 258 co-main event.
When Romero fell out, Bellator searched for a replacement for tomorrow’s co-main event. Ultimately, the promotion landed on Jose Augusto who trains under the Pitbull Brothers.
Augusto will be making his Bellator debut tomorrow night. Currently, he’s riding a five-fight win streak. The last time he fought was on April 2nd and he seems more than game to take on Rumble tomorrow night.
As mentioned, Rumble’s Bellator debut is his first fight in four years. Rumble last fought at UFC 210 where he lost for the second time to Daniel Cormier. In Rumble’s last 14 fights, he’s 12-2 with Cormier being the only man to defeat him.
Rumble was released from his UFC contract and signed with Bellator a few months ago. It was a surprising move by all parties involved, but it’s a fresh start for Rumble who is going to look to make a statement tomorrow night.
Bellator 258 Prediction
When it comes to the Bellator 258 co-main event, the big thing is going to be the grappling of Jose Augusto. Rumble Johnson looks like he’s in the best shape of his life leading into his Bellator debut.
If this fight stays on the feet, I don’t see Augusto doing well at all with Rumble. Rumble is one of the most prolific knockout artist in the history of the light heavyweight division and I just don’t see Augusto holding up well against the power.
Now, if Augusto comes out and is able to land takedowns at Bellator 258, he can definitely make things interesting. His submission and grappling skills could pose some problems.
However, I just don’t see it happening. I think Rumble makes a big statement tomorrow and gets a first round finish on his way to the semi-finals of the Bellator Light Heavyweight Grand Prix.
Prediction: Anthony Johnson by KO – Round 1