Yancy Medeiros to fight Emmanuel Sanchez in Bellator 279

Yancy Medeiros – the former UFC fighter Medeiros (15-8 MMA) has signed to fight Emmanuel Sanchez (20-7 MMA, 12-6 BMMA) in a lightweight bout at Bellator 279.

Sources with knowledge of the matchup recently informed MMA Junkie but asked to remain anonymous as the promotion has yet to make announcement.

Bellator 279 takes place Saturday, April 23, at Neal S. Blaisdell Arena in Honolulu, as the second part of a back-to-back night’s show for the promotion. Bellator 278 takes place a day before, April 22, at the same venue.

The main cards stream on Showtime after prelims on MMA Junkie.

Yancy Medeiros vs Emmanuel Sanchez

Yancy Medeiros recently lobbied for a chance in Bellator after the promotion announced its 2022 return to Hawaii. Bellator president Scott Coker voiced indecision when asked if a spot was available for the former UFC headliner. However, days later, a deal has been made. Medeiros worked for Coker during their terms with Strikeforce.

Yet to fight since his UFC departure, Medeiros will look to snap the four-fight skid, which led to his promotional exit.

Emmanuel Sanchez vs Yancy Medeiros

Emmanuel Sanchez, a two-time Bellator title challenger, looks to turn his luck around. Currently, on a three-fight skid, Sanchez has proved to be a tough out for Patricio Freire, Jeremy Kennedy, and Mads Burnell – the three men who most recently beat him.

The Bellator 279 lineup includes:

Champion Sergio Pettis vs. Raufeon Stots – grand Prix quarterfinal for bantamweight title Champion

Cris Cyborg vs. Arlene Blencowe – for women’s featherweight title

Kyoji Horiguchi vs. Patchy Mix – grand Prix quarterfinal

Justine Kish vs. Ilima-Lei Macfarlane

Yancy Medeiros vs. Emmanuel Sanchez

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