Bellator star Anthony Johnson has confirmed he’s aiming to get back into the cage and hopes to do so before the end of the year.
Johnson made his promotional debut in May 2021, opposite Jose Augusto. Originally scheduled to be Yoel Romero, “The Soldier of God” wasn’t cleared to compete, leading to Johnson and Augusto putting on one of the best showcases of the year.
Scoring a comeback knockout victory in round two, Johnson advanced to set up a title opportunity against champion Vadim Nemkov. An undisclosed illness then reared its head for the 38-year-old, and there was no telling whether or not Johnson would be able to compete again.
“Rumble” retired from MMA in the Octagon after his second defeat to Daniel Cormier at UFC 210 in April 2017. During his time at Light Heavyweight in UFC, Johnson’s only losses came against Cormier in title fights, both occasions seeing him submitted via second-round rear-naked choke.
At present, the Grand Prix has been extended for at least one more fight as the finals bout between Nemkov and Corey Anderson last month – April 15, 2022, ended in a “No Contest” after an accidental head butt. A rematch is expected before the year’s end.
After four years away from active competition, Anthony Johnson – also known as ‘Rumble’ – made a triumphant return last year when he knocked out Jose Augusto to progress in the Bellator Light Heavyweight Grand Prix.
A lot of fans were concerned for his well being, but after some uncertainty, he recently confirmed that he still wants to compete, and he wants to come back before the end of 2022.
In this latest post, he’s doubled down on that and has also provided an update regarding his training.
“1st DAY BACK. If you knew the path I’m on you’d understand this is a big step. When I’m back you’ll see a different, more dangerous version of what you’ve already seen. @drcpeacock always has me ready when a battle is announced. Nothing to announce yet but hopefully before the yr is over I’ll get the green light.” – He posted on Instagram.
He is known for his one-punch knockout power. He was the #1 ranked light heavyweight contender in official UFC rankings and was ranked #2 in the world by Sherdog and ESPN before his retirement in April 2017.
