By FCF Staff
Bellator Fighting Championships has announced that accomplished judo competitor, Ferrid Kheder, will compete in the promotion’s upcoming Season Four, lightweight tourney. The news marks the second time Kheder has been confirmed as a tourney competitor, as the 35 year-old-veteran was scheduled to fight in Bellator’s Season Two, until a bout with appendicitis forced his withdrawal.
“As a former Olympian, Ferrid brings dangerous grappling skills to this tournament. I’m looking forward to seeing Ferrid finally make his Bellator debut this season,” said Bellator Chairman and CEO Bjorn Rebney in the official announcement.
Kheder (18-5) will enter the tourney riding a six fight, undefeated streak, which includes a win over Steve Berger and most recently, a no contest result with Hermes Franca. Kheder, who was a member of France’s Olympic Judo squad in 2000, has not lost since September, 2009, when he dropped a unanimous decision to Daisuke Nakamura.
“I'm absolutely determined to win this tournament. I think I'm one of the best in the world when I have the proper training and I'm fully prepared,” said Kheder. “I have three fights to win in this tournament, and then I'll have the opportunity to fight for the title against one of the best lightweights in the world. I know this is a really huge opportunity for me.”
Kheder is the fifth competitor to be confirmed for the lightweight tournament, joining Rob McCullough, Carey Vanier, Michael Chandler, and Lloyd Woodard. The winner of the competition will win $100,000 and a bout with lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez.
Bellator’s Season Four will be broadcast live on MTV 2.
