Koreshkov Seeking to Close the Book on Lima Trilogy at Bellator 206

Bellator returns home to San Jose, California on September 29 with Bellator 206 (Video Credit: Bellator MMA / John McCarthy)

Andrey Koreshkov (21-2) has competed under the Bellator banner since 2012. During his time with the promotion he’s challenged for the welterweight belt at Bellator 97, losing by fourth round TKO against then champ Ben Askren. The dynamic Russian then set his sights on competing for the gold once again, as Askren vacated to join ONE Championship and the vacant title was won by Douglas Lima who defeated Rick Hawn at Bellator 117.

Koreshkov was able to secure his spot against Lima by winning the Bellator Season 10 Welterweight Tournament, and became the fourth Bellator welterweight champion defeating Lima at Bellator 140. The pair met up once more at Bellator 164, where Lima was successful in regaining his title and handing Koreshkov a third round TKO.

Speaking with Fight Night Picks’ Craig Allen on Tuesday, Koreshkov detailed that he hasn’t made too many adjustments to his game plan heading into this third match-up with Lima.

“I wouldn’t say that we did any significant changes in preparation,” said Koreshkov with the aid of his translator Alexei. “In my two previous fights the preparation was absolutely fine, so I was able to beat him the first time and so this time the preparation would be pretty much the same. Of course we have some surprises for him, which I’m not going to tell you — it’s a secret, but I think you’ll be quite surprised and entertained.”

The bout between Lima and Koreshkov kicks off Bellator’s Welterweight World Grand Prix at Bellator 206. A competition which also includes familiar faces such as Michael “Venom” Page, Jon Fitch, Ed Ruth and of course champion Rory MacDonald. When asked what the significance of a win over Douglas Lima would mean, Koreshkov was reserved.

“Two of the best and strongest fighters right there in the first fight of the eight man tournament, and we are facing each other,” said Koreshkov. “So winning this fight would mean a lot to me.”

Bellator’s entire Welterweight World Grand Prix Lineup (Photo Credit: Bellator MMA)

Matchmakers have placed this trilogy bout on the same card as welterweight champion Rory MacDonald who will be facing Gegard Mousasi for his middleweight strap. As many are predicting, the first rounds of the tournament will wrap up in the spring, giving ample time for MacDonald to heal and compete in his opening bout against Jon Fitch. When asked about the Bellator 206 main event, Koreshkov gave his prediction as to who could walk away victorious.

“I think Gegard Mousasi has much more (of a) chance to win this fight,” said Koreshkov. “The reason is because that’s his natural weight, he’s been competing as (a) middleweight forever while Rory, he’s a welterweight.”

“Even though Rory won’t have to cut as much weight, and that would be easier for his body (but) at the same time, I’m not sure if he’s ready to compete at this level, because he’s going to fight the champion right away at middleweight.”

With Bellator’s recent expansion and plans to host a Hawaii card in December, as well as the UFC’s move to Russia last week, Koreshkov is hopeful that Bellator will follow suit and host a card in his home country.

“Of course, I would love it,” said an excited Koreshkov. “I would love if this would happen and I hope it will happen.”