Last month, it was revealed that former UFC Heavyweight Champion Josh Barnett was pulled from his upcoming bout against Ronny Markes due to failing a pre-fight drug test conducted by the Mohegan Sun Athletic Commission. Now, Markes' replacement for Bellator 241 is officially confirmed as Matt Mitrione will step in and take on the heavyweight.
Markes will be making his Bellator MMA debut here as the fighter is coming off a win over Sigi Pesaleli at PFL 3. Prior to signing with Bellator MMA, the 31-year-old competed in the UFC, M-1 Global, World Series of Fighting, Platinum Fight Brazil, and Shooto Brazil. Markes' professional record currently stands at 19 wins and 7 losses.
Matt Mitrione is in need of a win at Bellator 241 as the heavyweight is currently in the midst of a two-fight losing streak. The former UFC fighter’s last win was against Roy Nelson at Bellator 194 back in February 2018. Mitrione’s professional record currently stands at 13 wins, 7 losses, and 1 no contest.
Bellator 241 takes place on Friday, March 13 from the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut with Patricio Pitbull and Pedro Carvlaho headlining.