Emelianenko Signs Deal with Bellator

In a surprise announcement made at Bellator 165, it was announced that the legendary Fedor Emelianenko has signed a multi-fight deal with the promotion.

Furthermore, it has been announced that Emelianenko will be debuting inside the Bellator cage in the main event of Bellator 172, which takes place on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, at the SAP Center in San Jose, California, against Matt Mitrione.

"It’s great to be back in business with Fedor," Bellator MMA President Scott Coker said. "The man is a legend both inside and outside of the cage and I’m elated to bring him back Stateside for the American MMA fans to witness him fight Matt Mitrione in San Jose. He and I go quite aways back, and I look forward to continuing to build our partnership here in Bellator MMA."

Since returning to MMA after a short hiatus, the former world champion in MMA and Sambo has picked up two wins.

Mitrione, meanwhile, signed with Bellator earlier this year after six seasons in the NFL with the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings. He has earned two victories during his time with Bellator thus far.