MMA News: Bellator Paris Fight Card Announced, Return of Usman Nurmagomedov

Five fights have been revealed for Bellator's return to Paris.

Bellator MMA is back in France.

The organization may have been bought by the PFL last November, but the promotion's legacy continues in the re-envisioned 'Bellator Champion Series.' In addition to Bellator Belfast on Mar. 22, Bellator Paris has been officially announced for May 17.

Two title fights sit atop the card happening in the Accor Arena. The first? Undefeated lightweight champion and cousin of UFC's Khabib, Usman Nurmagomedov is set to defend his title against Alexander Shabliy in the main event.

Bellator Champion Usman Nurmagomedov Suspended After Failed Drug Test

Nurmagomedov, 25, faced some controversy following his last outing vs. Brent Primus in October. The champ tested positive for a banned substance and his unanimous decision win was ultimately overturned to a no-contest. 

One six-month suspension by California State Athletic Commission later and Nurmagomedov is back in action.

Shabliy may prove to be the 17-0 Nurmagomedov's toughest test to date. The fellow Russian fighter is riding a nine-fight win streak, which includes victories over Tofiq Musayev and former champs Patricky Pitbull and Brent Primus.

The co-headliner features Bellator Bantamweight Champion Patchy Mix as he battles challenger Magomed Magomedov. 

Mix is coming off the biggest fight of his career where he unified the bantamweight title against Sergio Pettis at Bellator 301 in November. The Grand Prix Champion looks to defend his title for the very first time since earning undisputed status.

This is a rematch for the oncoming 'Tiger' Magomedov. Mix submitted Magomedov with a guillotine in their first encounter in Dec. 2022. The Russian rebounded with a submission victory of his own over the outspoken Danny Sabatello last July.

Per a press release, here is how the Bellator Paris fight card is shaping up to be:

Usman Nurmagomedov (17-0, 1 NC) vs. Alexander Shabliy (23-3)

Patchy Mix (19-1) vs. Magomed Magomedov (20-3)

Gregory Babene (23-11) vs. Costello van Steenis (14-3)

Slim Trabelsi (6-0) vs. Louie Sutherland (6-2)

Mansour Barnaoui (20-6) vs. Yusuke Yachi (26-13)

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