Bellator Belfast Update: Karl Moore Successfully Weighs In for Light-Heavyweight Title Bout Against Corey Anderson
Ireland’s Karl Moore has successfully made weight ahead of his historic bid in Belfast on Friday night against Corey Anderson. The 32-year-old aims to carve his name in MMA history by becoming the first Irish fighter to clinch a major MMA world title when he squares off against Anderson for the vacant light-heavyweight belt.
Expressing his excitement about the opportunity, Moore highlighted the significance of the moment, saying, “How many fighters have got to fight for a world title? And in their home town? That’s just unbelievable.”
Both Moore and Anderson hit the scales at 204.6lb (92.8kg), setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown at the SSE Arena, which will serve as the venue for the fight night. This marks Moore’s first professional fight in Belfast, and he anticipates a raucous atmosphere filled with enthusiastic local support.
In addition to Moore’s historic quest, Strabane featherweight James Gallagher is set to take on Leandro Higo. Gallagher, eyeing a convincing victory over the Brazilian, aims to propel himself into title contention. His confident demeanor was evident on stage as he engaged in the customary pre-fight rituals before locking eyes with Higo.
Featherweight champion Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire is slated to defend his title in the co-main event against Canada’s Jeremy Kennedy. Despite the speculation surrounding potential future matchups, Pitbull has downplayed the possibility of facing Gallagher next, endorsing Higo as the victor.
Meanwhile, Birmingham’s Fabian Edwards is gearing up for action in a pivotal middleweight contender fight against Aaron Jeffery. The winner of this bout will earn the coveted opportunity to challenge reigning champion Johnny Eblen.
Bellator Belfast, officially dubbed as Bellator Champions Series, marks the first event since the MMA promotion was acquired by the Professional Fighters League (PFL) last year. The event promises an electrifying showcase of talent and competition, with fighters vying for glory in front of an eager audience.
