Dan Hornbuckle won’t have to wait long in his attempt to get back on the winning track, as Bellator Fighting Championships has announced today that the welterweight will face UFC vet Brad Blackburn, August 19th, at the Chicago Theatre.
In June, Hornbuckle’s 6 fight winning streak and attempt to win Bellator’s welterweight tourney came to an end, as the Sengoku veteran lost by Unanimous Decision to renowned wrestler Ben Askren. Hornbuckle (21-3) had advanced to the tournament finals by tapping out Tyler Stinson and Steve Carl in April and May respectively.
“Bad Brad is a really tough opponent and it's going to be a good start to my win-streak,” Hornbuckle was quoted saying in a press release from the promotion. “Brad's skill sets are going to complement mine and I'll finally be able to unleash the The Handler's stand-up without any wrestling tackles involved.”
Blackburn (15-11-1) will be looking to end a two fight losing streak in his promotional debut with Bellator. The veteran fighter was released from the UFC following back-to-back losses to Amir Sadollah and Demarques Johnson. Prior to the defeats, Blackburn had won three straight in the UFC, defeating James Giboo, Ryo Chonan and Edgar Garcia.
“Hornbuckle is a top-level fighter with a great record. I’m excited to fight him, but I’m not scared of anyone’s striking in MMA,” said Blackburn. “I’ve been around for a long time, wherever this fight goes, I’ll be comfortable. If he wants to stand and bang, let’s do it.”
The August 19th card will also feature action from Bellator’s third season heavyweight tourney, as Damian “The Polish Pitbull” Grabowski will face Scott Barrett, and Cole Konrad will take on Rogent Lloret. The event will also include an opening round match-up from the promotion’s women’s tournament, as Zoila “Warrior Princess” Frausto will fight Jessica Pene.
The card will be broadcast on Fox Sports Net.
