Bellator MMA teams up with CBS for broadcast debut of upcoming title fight

A rematch of the 2019 bout between Ryan Bader, world Heavyweight champion, and Fedor Emelianenko, MMA legend, will take place on Saturday, February 4. It will be broadcast live on CBS and streamed live on the network Paramount+ for premium subscribers.



Scott Coker, president of Bellator, said, "We have worked endlessly to grow Bellator as a brand. Today it has become the global powerhouse, and we have always envisioned being on the prime-time slot of CBS."


Further, he said, "the showcase of events on America's most-watched network has excited me. The event is full of a healthy roster of various world's biggest fighters, along with the game's legends and best upcoming prospects."

Sports rights are in great demand among cable networks, traditional broadcasters, and streaming platforms. Sports and award show live programming is considered a must-watch for viewers. In the fragmented viewing era, live streaming value has increased.


Coker's global promotion Strikeforce, last broadcast the MMA match on CBS in 2010. Kelly Kahl, the Departing entertainment president, was a huge fan of MMA, so he brought prime-time audiences the coverage with CBS. Thus, between 2008-2010 five MMA events were aired.

FAQs

Which matches will be broadcast?
Bellator 290 will also broadcast, The second title match between "Soldier of God" Romero, light heavyweight Yeol going up against Friday's Bellator 288 primary event winner, Corey Anderson, and Vadim Nemkov, world champion.


From where will the matches be filmed?
The matches will be filmed live from California's Kia Forum in Inglewood.