UNCASVILLE, Conn. – Bellator’s back-to-back events weekend is starting to fill up.
On the second leg of the two-night doubleheader, middleweights Austin Vanderford and Daniel Madrid will square off at Bellator 246.
Multiple people with knowledge of the situation informed MMA Junkie of the booking on Wednesday but asked to remain anonymous as the promotion has yet to make an official announcement.
Vanderford (9-0 MMA, 3-0 BMMA) has not fought since November but has kept himself busy competing in grappling matches. Earlier this week, he and his wife, Paige Vanzant, revealed that Vanderford tested positive for COVID-19. They later said he has tested negative twice since.
Madrid (17-6 MMA, 0-0 BMMA) was supposed to compete against Impa Kasanganay for the LFA middleweight championship on March 20. However, the event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Madrid, 36, has won four straight fights – all inside the distance.
Bellator 246 takes place Saturday, Sept. 12 at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. The main card will simulcast on DAZN and Paramount after prelims on MMA Junkie.
With the addition, the current Bellator 246 lineup includes:
Juan Archuleta vs. Patchy Mix – for the vacant bantamweight title
Jon Fitch vs. Neiman Gracie
DeAnna Bennett vs. Liz Carmouche
Derek Campos vs. Roger Huerta
Daniel Madrid vs. Austin Vanderford