Bellator MMA president Scott Coker is currently busy with the last minute decorations of Bellator 200. Arguably one of the most important events in Bellator MMA history, Bellator 200 will be held at the SSE Arena in London and will be headlined by Gegard Mousasi and Middleweight champion Rafael Carvalho.
Ahead of the huge event, Coker took out some time for the MMA media and addressed a string of topics. One of the topics that Coker talked about was the new ESPN deal that UFC landed recently. He said that the deal is good for MMA as a whole.
“I just read that this morning, and hey, good for them. To me, it’s great for everybody. When I started this martial arts fight business in 2006, there was no MMA on TV. Spike TV was really the first one to give MMA a chance, and then FOX affiliates came in, and we landed the CBS/Showtime deal in 2007, 2008. It seems like every network in America has MMA. So this sport has come a long way, and this is just another solid proof that this sport is here to stay, and it’s not going anywhere,” he said. (via MMA Junkie)
The possibility of signing Yair Rodriguez and talks with 50 Cent
Coker also talked about the situation of Yair Rodriguez who was recently released by the UFC. Coker noted that he doesn’t have an update on the situation as of now.
“I haven’t seen (a release letter), but I was told by CAA that he is an official free agent, and that they got the release letter. I think my guys are still talking about him, but I don’t have an update at this time,” he said.
Another interesting topic that Coker addressed was the flirtations of singer 50 Cent with the MMA world.
“I think he’s having fun with the ‘Rampage’ thing; I think he’s having fun with the ‘MVP’ thing. He’s having a good time, and anytime 50 wants to be involved, we’re going to say yes.” Coker added.
Bellator 200 is scheduled to take place on Friday 25 May 2018 at the SSE Arena in London.
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