Austin Vanderford continues to impress as he remains among the ranks of the undefeated. Currently 4-0 in Bellator, and 5-0 since his Contender Series snub, middleweight Vanderford certainly makes you question the UFC brass for letting him walk.
At Bellator 251, Vanderford had a late opponent change, with CES champion Vinicius de Jesus stepping in. But it didn’t matter as self-proclaimed “Mr. VanZant” cruised to victory.
“I like to make it messy,” Vanderford told media outlets including Cageside Press following the fight. “I feel like I need to finish guys like that, I’m brand new American Top Team, so far so good. I have some amazing guys, they are going to take me to the next level.”
That said, Vanderford believes he broke his wrist partway through the opening round.
The 31 year old Vanderford, along with his wife, recently joined the ranks of American Top Team. Currently 10-0 as a pro, and 4-0 with his new home (Bellator MMA), the chance at a title shot is very realistic.
“I think I still have a lot of room to grow,” Vanderford stated. “When I fight for that title I want people to know I deserve it, and that I’m ready to fight for the title. I’m ready whenever, but we will keep on the pace, do what Bellator wants me to do.”
Vanderford was asked about his career, and shutting up those who at first considered him Paige VanZant’s boyfriend or a publicity stunt by Dana White to bring him on to Contender Series.
“I’m passed the whole f*ck you guys,” Vanderford stated. “I’m Mr. VanZant, I roll with it, I try to make things violent and bloody.”
Watch the full Bellator 251 post-fight press scrum with Austin Vanderford above.
