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MMA fans around the world are eagerly anticipating Bellator 292, which is set to feature a highly anticipated matchup between two of the sport's top fighters: Usman Nurmagomedov and Benson Henderson. For many months, Bellator CEO Scott Coker was already alluding to a Lightweight Grand Prix, and now it has happened. Bellator 292 is set to take place in San Jose, California on March 10th, 2023.
Nurmagomedov, the younger cousin of UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, is an up-and-coming star in the world of MMA. The 23-year-old Russian fighter is undefeated in his professional career with a record of 16-0 and has quickly made a name for himself in the sport.
He won the lightweight title at Bellator 288 when he defeated Patricky Freire in a five-round unanimous decision on November 18. 13 of the American Kickboxing Academy graduate's 16 victories have been decided within the given time limit.
Henderson, on the other hand, is a seasoned veteran of the sport. The 39-year-old American fighter has a record of 30-11 and has previously held titles in both the UFC and WEC. Henderson recently defeated Islam Mamedov and Peter Queally twice in a Bellator competition. In his time with the California-based promotion, "Smooth" is 7-6, with important wins over Patricio Freire, Myles Jury, and Roger Huerta among his other opponents.
The matchup between Nurmagomedov and Henderson is a highly anticipated one, with both fighters known for their impressive skill sets. Nurmagomedov is known for his striking ability. Meanwhile, Henderson is known for his well-rounded game, with a mix of striking and grappling skills.
Another Lightweight Grand Prix matchup is set to feature too as a co-main event at Bellator 292. Tofiq Musayev will square off against Alexandr Shabliy for a chance to fight for the gold strap.
Musayev, a former Rizin Fighting Federation champion, made his professional MMA debut in July by finishing Sidney Outlaw in just 27 seconds at Bellator 283. The 33-year-old native of Azerbaijan has won 16 of his last 17 contests.
Shabliy will go into his matchup with Musayev riding a seven-bout winning streak. The 29-year-old Russian is 3-0 in Bellator, with his most recent victory coming at Bellator 282 when he TKO'd Brent Primus in the second round.
Overall, Bellator 292 is shaped to be an exciting night of MMA action. With the Nurmagomedov vs. Henderson matchup at the center of the event, fans are sure to be in for a treat. Be sure to tune in on March 10th to catch all the action live.