Patricio Freire vs. Emmanuel Sanchez headlines Bellator MMA event in Israel

Having successfully defended his featherweight title in Italy, Bellator champion Patricio “Pitbull” Freire will be traveling to Israel for his next defense.

MMAjunkie confirmed with a Bellator official on Thursday that Freire will take on Emmanuel Sanchez on November 15th at the Menora Mivtachim Arena in Tel Aviv, where Bellator held its two previous events in that country.

Freire (27-4) won a split decision over Daniel Weichel at Bellator 203 in July. It was his first fight since winning the title back from Daniel Straus in 2017, and his second championship victory against Weichel. They were originally scheduled to fight in Israel last year, but Pitbull withdrew due to injury.

Sanchez (17-3) is riding a four-fight winning streak, including submission finishes vs. Daniel Straus and Sam Sicilia, and a unanimous decision over ex-bantamweight champ Marcos Galvao. His only defeats inside the Bellator cage have come against Daniel Weichel and former champion Pat Curran.

“I had to leave the event last year due to injuries, so I wanted to make up for it,” Freire said in a statement to Bloody Elbow. “When Bellator talked about the possibility, I didn’t have to think twice. Emmanuel Sanchez has solid results and is the most deserving contender. I’m glad to be fighting someone new and I look forward to finish him in front of the Israel crowd.”

Bellator’s return to Israel will be shown on Paramount Network, but also streamed live on DAZN in the United States. More fights will be announced in the coming weeks.