#2. Bellator light heavyweight champion - Vadim Nemkov
After his most recent win at Bellator 276, a trilogy bout between Phil Davis and Vadim Nemkov could be inevitable. Davis continues to defeat top contenders at 205 lbs and at the same time removes them from title contention.
Since becoming champion, Nemkov has made a strong case for why he should be considered among the best light heavyweights in MMA. During his tenure with the promotion, he has defeated four former champions. In fact, it could be argued that he'd be the favorite in a hypothetical bout with current UFC light heavyweight champion Glover Teixeira.
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The reigning light heavyweight champion is riding a 9-fight winning streak and hasn't lost a bout in six years. Nemkov will have his hands full when he takes on Corey Anderson in the Grand Prix finals next month. If he retains the title, a trilogy bout against 'Mr. Wonderful' would perhaps be the biggest fight the promotion could book for him.
#1. Top ranked Bellator light heavyweight - Corey Anderson
Phil Davis vs. Corey Anderson is the most logical bout to book in Bellator's light heavyweight division. Anderson is the only 205-pounder in the top-5 that Davis hasn't fought, so it would be a fresh matchup. Both have collegiate wrestling backgrounds, but Davis being the more accomplished wrestler might see Anderson take a more aggressive striking approach.
'Overtime' is on a quest to prove that he's the best light heavyweight in the world. A win over Nemkov in the Grand Prix finals would put him on the right track. Since joining the promotion in 2020, Anderson has won all three of his bouts via TKO.
The former TUF winner's performance in the upcoming Grand Prix final will determine whether a bout with Davis becomes a reality or not. The timing would work out well as they would've competed one month apart. If 'Overtime' picks up a decisive win and is unscathed, a bout with 'Mr. Wonderful' could be realistic for the summer.