Tomorrow night in the co-main event of Bellator 277, we will see the conclusion of the Light Heavyweight Grand Prix with the title on the line. The champion Vadim Nemkov (15-2) takes on his toughest test to date in Corey Anderson (16-5).
Back in 2020, Corey Anderson was granted a release from the UFC and immediately signed with Bellator. Upon signing with the promotion, he’s basically been untouchable in his three fights.
So far, Anderson is 3-0 with three finishes inside the Bellator cage. The most impressive being a knockout of former two-division champion Ryan Bader in under 60 seconds. Now, Anderson is ready to capture the title.
However, to do that, he’s going to have to defeat a man who has also been perfect in Bellator. That man is the champion Vadim Nemkov. Nemkov enters Bellator 277 with a perfect 7-0 record in the promotion.
He hasn’t lost since 2016 and he’s been incredibly impressive during his reign. He had some hiccups in his last performance against Julius Anglickas, but he erased those when he earned a submission win in the fourth round.
Bellator 277 Prediction
When Bellator announced this Grand Prix, many were picking Nemkov and Anderson to end up in the finale. On paper, these were the two best light heavyweights in the tournament outside of Rumble Johnson. However, with injuries and inactivity, you’d have to remove Rumble here.
These were the two and these are the two who are going to fight for the Bellator light heavyweight title. When examining the fight, I think there are many more advantages here for Corey Anderson than Vadim Nemkov.
When it comes to the wrestling, I’m going to have to favor Anderson here. Striking power is also something that you would have to give to Corey Anderson. Volume striking and kicks, I would give that advantage to Vadim Nemkov.
So, it all comes down to how this fight is fought at Bellator 277. If this is a range and volume type of fight, I think Vadim Nemkov has a really good chance of getting the victory. However, if this is a fight with big power moments, you’re going to see a new champion.
Ultimately, I think it feels like Corey Anderson is going to get it done tomorrow night. He’s been too good since joining Bellator and I think he’s going to have his crowning moment tomorrow when he finishes Vadim Nemkov in the fourth round to become light heavyweight champion.
Prediction: Corey Anderson by TKO – Round 4