When someone mentions Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is the first company that comes to mind. Many feel that the UFC has set the business standard for all other promotions in the sport. Yet, one relatively new organization is establishing itself in the fighting game – and they’re doing it with Latino fighters and by catering to Latino fans.
"Bellator", which is Latin for "Warrior", organizes its events into seasons with each event hosting the rounds of championship knockout tournaments for three-five weight divisions. Bellator broadcasts its fights nationally in the United States through an exclusive television agreement with ESPN Deportes.
“It’s that mano-a-mano, warrior-against-warrior mentality. No sport in the history of man has exemplified that mentality better than MMA,” said Rebney. “[Latino fighters] and the Hispanic market are also important to this company...we have consistently had a tremendous focus on Latino fight fans throughout this country and throughout the world,” said Rebney.
Due to the UFC's recent purchase of Strikeforce, Bellator Fighting Championships is essentially the No. 2 promotion in MMA. Further still, Bellator is even beginning talks with Spike TV as UFC looks to purchase G4 and leave the cable channel that helped launch the company. 2011 and 2012 could be very good years for Bellator, but this blossoming fight promotion company is staying true to the fighters and fans that have made them successful.
We’re constantly looking in South and Central America and Mexico for the next guy,” said Rebney. “[Latinos] are an important part of the company. It’s part of who we are.”
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