5 homegrown Bellator fighters that could thrive in the UFC

A.J. McKee wins Featherweight Grand Prix - Photo credit: Lucas Noonan
A.J. McKee wins Featherweight Grand Prix - Photo credit: Lucas Noonan

#4. Yaroslav Amosov - Bellator welterweight champion

Bellator welterweight champion Yaroslav ‘Dynamo’ Amosov would not only be a welcome addition, but he could thrive in the UFC. He has an unbeaten 26-0 record and has been able to neutralize his opponents with his wrestling.

‘Dynamo’ won the title last year when he turned in a dominant performance against Douglas Lima on way to a unanimous decision. He showed what he’s capable of doing to somebody of Lima’s caliber. His fighting style may not produce highlight-reel, but it is very effective.

Amosov has even been compared to former UFC lightweight champion Khabib ‘The Eagle’ Nurmagomedov in the past. The two have a similar background in Sambo and a long undefeated streak.

If ‘Dynamo’ competed in the UFC, bouts with Colby Covington, Gilbert Burns, and welterweight champion Kamaru Usman would be interesting. If he continues his winning streak this year, he could eventually attract the attention of Dana White and the UFC’s matchmakers.


#3. Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire – Bellator featherweight

Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire is arguably the greatest fighter in Bellator history. He has achieved many milestones during his tenure with the promotion. Not only is he a former two-time featherweight champion, but he also won the lightweight championship and held the titles simultaneously.

'Pitbull' has defeated some of the biggest names in the promotion's history, including Michael Chandler, Daniel Straus, and Juan Archuleta. For years, many have wondered how ‘Pitbull’ would fare against the top fighters in the UFC featherweight division. A bout against reigning UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski would definitely appeal to fans as both fighters match up well.

In addition to his accolades as a champion, Friere also has the most wins and title fights in the promotion's history. It would be intriguing to see him compete in the UFC before he eventually calls it a career.

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