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#4. Loser of Magomed Magomedov/Enrique Barzola - Bellator Grand Prix quarterfinal
Magomed Magomedov and Enrique Barzola will also compete in their Grand Prix matchup at Bellator 282 on June 24. Barzola earned his opportunity to compete in the Grand Prix after a unanimous decision win over Nikita Mikhailov.
If Magomedov loses the bout, a bout with Horiguchi would be much more logical. He is coming into the Grand Prix following a loss to current interim bantamweight champion Raufeon Stots. It was a back-and-forth grappling battle, but ‘Supa’ earned the unanimous decision.
With that in mind, ‘Tiger’ vs. ‘The Typhoon’ would see two top-ranked bantamweights battling in hopes of snapping a two-fight losing streak. They are both ranked in the top five. As such, a winner could maintain their position in the rankings while the Grand Prix is ongoing.
Despite being the No.10-ranked bantamweight, ‘El Fuerte’ shouldn’t necessarily be viewed as an underdog. The UFC alum is an experienced fighter and is unbeaten in his last three bouts.
#3. No.8-ranked Bellator bantamweight Josh Hill
No.8-ranked Bellator bantamweight Josh Hill would be a suitable opponent for Horiguchi if he wanted a quick turnaround. The Canadian was originally scheduled to compete in a Grand Prix qualifier, but was forced to withdraw due to COVID-19.
‘Gentleman’ is coming off an impressive knockout win over Jared Scoggins. He has gone 3-1 since joining the promotion, with his only loss coming against Stots. His withdrawal from the Grand Prix was unfortunate because of how great he looked in his most recent win.
Since Hill isn’t currently linked to an upcoming event, a bout with No.5-ranked Horiguchi could be realistic for the summer. ‘The Typhoon’ would be able to get back in the cage and put his Grand Prix loss behind him. Meanwhile, Hill could remain active against a top bantamweight.
