James Gallagher to Headline Bellator’s Return to Dublin

James Gallagher to Headline Bellator’s Return to Dublin

By Dan McConnell

It was announced today that Bellator have confirmed that they will be returning to Dublin in early 2019. Bellator revealed that James ‘The Strabanimal’ Gallagher (7-1-0) will face US native Steven ‘Golden’ Graham (6-3-0) in the 3 Arena on 23rd of February 2019.

Trash talking specialist Gallagher will look to defend his home turf against Bellator debutant Steven Graham in the bantamweight division. Gallagher is coming off his first career loss to former CFFC champion Ricky Bandejas, who finished Gallagher in the first round at Bellator 204. Up until this loss the SBG fighter had won all four of his fights under the banner including a notable win over Chinzo Machida.

It is welcomed to see a huge global MMA organisation return to the shores of Ireland. Bellator last came to Dublin on Friday 10th November 2017 when Gallagher was expected to face arch rival AJ McKee but was pulled from the card due to injury. He will now get his long-awaited opportunity.

Bellator have made a real commitment to growing European and Irish MMA with the signing of many stars including former UFC lightweight Norman Parke, former Cage Warriors light-heavyweight champion Karl Moore, former BAMMA lightweight and welterweight champion Terry Brazier, Richie Smullen, Kiefer Crosbie, Ion Pascu, Myles Price and Paul Redmond to name a few of the recent talent signed.

The UK and especially Ireland can anticipate a much stronger Bellator presence and will look forward to seeing some of Europe’s best MMA fighters inside the Bellator cage in the coming years.

The rest of the card will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

Tickets will go on sale to the general public this Wednesday the 12th of December.