[autotag]Corey Anderson[/autotag] may not have drawn the most recognizable name in the next Bellator tournamennt, but that doesn’t mean he’s taking him lightly.
Anderson (14-5 MMA, 1-0 BMMA) will take on [autotag]Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov[/autotag] in the quarterfinals of the light heavyweight grand prix at Bellator 256, which takes place April 9 in Uncasville, Conn. The card airs on Showtime.
The Turkmenistan-born fighter doesn’t have the same notoriety as fellow grand prix competitors Yoel Romero or Anthony Johnson, but he boasts an eight-fight winning streak, with six coming by way of finish.
After doing his research, Anderson said he knows he’s in for a tough outing against Yagshimuradov (18-5 MMA, 0-0 BMMA).
“I definitely had to do a quick Google,” Anderson told reporters at a media availability following Bellator’s Tuesday news conference. “First of all, I had to make sure my manager spelled his name right because I thought he was butt dialing and sending a bunch of random letters, and when I put it in (Google) it actually came up. I’m like, ‘Wait. This is a person’s name.’ After doing my research, I’m like, ‘I can’t look past this guy because I didn’t know him.’
“This guy actually has a pretty good style, he has a pretty good record and he’s well-known from where he’s from. I did my research. He’s a big name over where he’s from, and just because we didn’t know him, (that) doesn’t mean anything. So I’m not looking past anybody.”
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Since joining the Bellator roster in August, Anderson has already put the division on notice with a second-round finish of Melvin Manhoef at Bellator 251. His accolades – which include wins in the UFC over top contender Glover Teixeira, rising prospect Johnny Walker and light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz – could have resulted in a direct shot at Bellator champion Vadim Nemkov, but Anderson has no problem climbing his way to a title fight.
“You’re always hoping for a title shot,” Anderson said. “That’s what we’re all here for. If you’re not here to be the best, then why are you even here? If you’re here for a check, you should have left a long time ago because that’s when injuries happen. I’m here to be the best – I’m here to get the belt.”
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