Brett Johns gets new opponent for Bellator 259

The Bellator debut of Brett Johns will take place next Friday, despite a last-minute change of opponent.

Originally scheduled for a clash with Matheus Mattos, the former UFC Bantamweight contender will now fight ‘The Italian Gangster’ Danny Sabatello. Johns made the news public from his Instagram account. Mattos has reportedly contracted COVID-19, rendering him unable to compete. Sabatello now steps in on 8 days notice.

Sporting a 9-1 record, former Titan FC Champion Sabatello will seek to extend his winning streak to 5. No stranger to world class opposition, Johns will hope to find his footing in the shark-tank that is the Bellator Bantamweight division. Riding the momentum of two straight wins, Johns will no doubt be a formidable force in the Bellator cage. With contenders such as Caldwell, Gallagher and Archuleta striving to claim the belt from newly crowned champion Sergio Pettis, there is no shortage of intriguing opposition for the Welshman.

Following a seven fight run in the UFC, Johns tallied a 5-2 record in the Octagon. With victories over Joe Soto and Montel Jackson, and valiant efforts against Champion Aljamain Sterling and Pedro Munhoz, it is clear to see the potential that Johns brings to his next chapter with Bellator.

Brett Johns acknowledges his opponents calibre as he states ‘It’s a very tough fight. But I’m ready to go. Respect to Danny for stepping up!’ With 4 wins coming from submission and 4 from KO/TKO, Sabatello is undoubtedly a versatile martial artist. But can he go toe-to-toe with the experience and toughness of The Pikey?

Bellator 259 takes place on May 21st.