Brazilian light heavyweight Rodolfo Bellato is set to return to the Octagon this Saturday at UFC Vegas 121, facing Christian Edwards following a serious back injury that required emergency spine surgery. Bellato was forced to withdraw from UFC Vegas 117 in May due to a herniated disc affecting his sciatic nerve, an injury that left him unable to stand properly, as reported by MMA Sucka.
Bellato’s Recovery Journey
After the severe injury forced him out of an earlier fight against Modestas Bukauskas, Bellato immediately returned to Brazil for surgery. He has since undergone three and a half months of recovery. The 30-year-old fighter has declared himself “100% recovered” and ready for action, despite acknowledging that “spine surgery is never something simple,” according to MMA Sucka. Bellato expressed confidence in his preparation and stated he feels “great, prepared and ready to represent Brazil and bring home another victory.”
The Anticipated Matchup
Rodolfo Bellato enters the bout with a professional record of 13 wins, 3 losses, 1 draw, and one no contest. His last fight in March saw him secure a first-round TKO victory over Luke Fernandez. Bellato is known for his aggressive, powerhouse striking, boasting a 92 percent finish rate, as highlighted by DraftKings Network. His takedown defence stands at an impressive 94 percent, which could be a significant factor against Edwards, who is described as grapple-heavy.
Christian Edwards, 27, holds a professional record of 8 wins and 5 losses. He steps into the Octagon looking to bounce back from a split decision loss in his promotional debut against Modestas Bukauskas in May. DraftKings Network noted that Edwards had stepped in as a short-notice replacement for Bellato in that very fight at UFC Vegas 117. The same source also notes Edwards’ exceptional durability and raw knockout power, but points out his struggles with striking defence and a tendency to be sloppy on his feet during his debut.
According to DraftKings Sportsbook, Bellato is considered the favourite for the fight, with moneyline odds of -180, while Edwards is the underdog at +150. The fight total is set at over/under 1.5 rounds. Bellato’s team reportedly identified “good openings” in Edwards’ game that align well with their style.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: When is Rodolfo Bellato’s return fight scheduled?
- A: Rodolfo Bellato is scheduled to face Christian Edwards this Saturday at UFC Vegas 121.
- Q: Why was Rodolfo Bellato out of action?
- A: He was forced to withdraw from a fight in May due to a serious back injury, specifically a herniated disc affecting his sciatic nerve, which required emergency spine surgery.
- Q: What is Rodolfo Bellato’s professional fighting record?
- A: Rodolfo Bellato holds a professional record of 13 wins, 3 losses, 1 draw, and one no contest.
- Q: What are the betting odds for the fight between Bellato and Edwards?
- A: Rodolfo Bellato is the -180 moneyline favourite, and Christian Edwards is the +150 underdog, according to DraftKings Sportsbook.