Report: Fedor Emelianenko vs. Rampage Jackson Headlining Rizin 20, Champ vs. Champ Added To Rizin 21
A heavyweight division attraction could be headlining Rizin 20 according to Bruno Massami MMA Plus & Gazeta Esportiva (citing Nikkan Sports) as Fedor Emelianenko is in action against Rampage Jackson.
Massami also states that Josh Barnett was also in the mix to possibly fight Emelianenko, but Rampage is the chosen one at this time.
The report also states that Rizin 21 could be the home for a champion versus champion bout as Rizin Light Heavyweight Champion Jiri Prochazka could be fighting Bellator MMA Light Heavyweight Champion Ryan Bader. If Bader isn’t available for the bout, as he is defending the heavyweight title against Cheick Kongo this September, a replace could be former Bellator MMA Light Heavyweight Champion Phil Davis.
If the reports turn out to be true, it would seem like Bellator MMA President Scott Coker’s wish to hold a crossover event with Rizin could be coming to fruition. No other bouts have been announced for either Rizin 20 or Rizin 21 have been announced at this time.
Rizin 20 takes place on Sunday, December 29 from a location to be announced in Japan with Fedor Emelianenko and Rampage Jackson headlining. Rizin 21 takes place on Tuesday, December 31 from a location to be announced in Japan with a main event to be announced.
