Ex-Bellator champ Yaroslav Amosov hopes for UFC contract after recent win
Yaroslav Amosov wants to jump into the fray of the loaded UFC welterweight division.
Former Bellator welterweight champion Amosov (28-1) recently began a new chapter of his career after exiting the now-defunct promotion following PFL’s acquisition. He earned a first-round submission of veteran Curtis Millender under the CFFC banner earlier this month, and hopes that gains the UFC’s attention.
“It’s a very big motivation for me (to join the UFC),” Amosov told MMA Junkie. “I hope they give me contract and I want to show I can take this belt.”
Amosov, 31, had a window where there were questions about whether he was the best in the world at 170 pounds. He started his career with 27 consecutive victories, but then lost his Bellator title in shocking fashion with a third-round knockout to Jason Jackson in November 2023.
He spent 16 months on the sidelines after the defeat, but returned and showed he is still dangerous against a seasoned and well-traveled opponent in Millender.
The competition level at the top of the UFC welterweight division, currently headed by champion Belal Muhammad, exceeds anything Amosov has encountered his career thus far. It’s his goal to show he can not only hang at that level, but distance himself above it.
“I hope next fight is in the UFC,” Amosov said. “Now my manager talks with Sean Shelby and I have big respect for this guy. We will see. I hope for this.
“I want to show who I am. I hope he gives me a chance. I want to show the world who I am.”