5 Bellator fighters to keep an eye on in 2022

#4. Former Bellator bantamweight champion Kyoji Horiguchi

Kyoji Horiguchi is definitely a Bellator fighter that fans will want to keep an eye on in 2022. He is coming off a knockout loss to current Bellator bantamweight champion Sergio Pettis.

Despite being knocked out, Horiguchi was clearly winning the fight. The reigning RIZIN bantamweight champion was in control in each round before getting caught with a spinning back-fist. It will be interesting to see if he’s able to bounce back as he competes in the bantamweight Grand Prix. Although he’s coming into the tournament following a loss, he’s a well-rounded fighter that’s still viewed as one of the favorites.

Horiguchi demonstrated what he’s capable of as he’s been successful in every major promotion. The Grand Prix will be an excellent opportunity for Horiguchi to hold the bantamweight championship in two major promotions. If he does, the 31-year-old would have accomplished that feat for the second time in his career.

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#3. Bellator light heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov

Another champion that fans should keep an eye on in 2022 is Vadim Nemkov. The reigning light heavyweight champion has had an incredible run since joining the promotion. He is unbeaten since joining the promotion and is regarded as one of the best 205-pounders in the world.

Nemkov has an impressive resume in the sport that includes wins over UFC vets Phil Davis twice and Ryan Bader. He’ll have another opportunity to prove his greatness when he takes on Corey Anderson in the light heavyweight Grand Prix final.

What makes Nemkov's streak even more impressive is that five of his six opponents were former champions. Nemkov has done a great job mixing his Sambo with his striking, which has led to a few highlight-reel finishes. The Fedor Team protege is looking to successfully retain his title for a third time and win the $1 million prize.