Bellator Champion Vadim Nemkov Relinquishes Title, Moves Up to Heavyweight

Former Bellator light heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov has officially relinquished his title as he transitions to the heavyweight division, confirmed by a Bellator official.

The decision to move up in weight was not taken lightly by Nemkov, who cited the increasing difficulty of cutting weight as he gets older. In an interview back in August, Nemkov expressed his comfort at a higher weight, stating,

"I feel less strong and dangerous at 103kg. It’s not the same as I am at 106-108kg." He sees the move as a new challenge and an opportunity to pursue another title.

Despite his departure from the light heavyweight division, Nemkov's legacy remains strong. He was widely regarded as one of the top light heavyweights outside the UFC and boasts an impressive 12-fight winning streak.

Nemkov's next challenge will be on February 24 at the PFL vs. Bellator: Champions pay-per-view event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he is set to face off against Bruno Cappelozza, the 2021 PFL heavyweight champion.