Neiman Gracie expects ‘war’ against ‘legend’ Jon Fitch, hopes win puts him in Bellator title mix

Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialist Neiman Gracie hopes that a win over a seasoned veteran might get him close to a shot for the Bellator welterweight title. Paired up against former UFC title challenger, World Series of Fighting and Professional Fighters League champion, Jon Fitch, Gracie wishes to put on a show at Bellator 246.

In an interview with Ag Fight, Gracie acknowledges Fitch’s background and all the names his opponent bested in the past. In fact, Jon’s experience and track record is the reason why Neiman believes that a victory over someone like that could put him closer to title contention.

“He’s a legend in the sport, because he fought and defeated big names,” Gracie said. “He is a big name in the division. A win over him will put me very close to a title shot. Jon Fitch is at the top of the division. He’s coming off a five-fight win streak and a draw against the champion.”

A smothering wrestler with 32 wins and only 7 seven losses in his 18-year career Jon Fitch has been submitted three times before, despite his grappling skills. Although Neiman knows his opponent will try to outwrestle and control him on the ground, Gracie believes he has the tools to be the fourth man to ever tap out or put Jon to sleep.

“I think it’ll be a really tough fight. I expect a war on the 12th. I believe he will try to take me down and control me from the top. But I trained very hard to scramble and catch him from that position.”

In his last outing, Neiman Gracie (9-1) lost the 0 in his record to Rory MacDonald, back in June 2019. Before the loss, the 31-year-old was on a seven-fight winning streak in Bellator, with six submission victories. Overall, the Brazilian has eight wins by submission on his record and just one decision.

Now, Neiman Gracie is expected to meet Jon Fitch at Bellator 246’s co-main event, on September 12, in Uncasville, Connecticut. The card is scheduled to be headlined by a title fight for the vacant bantamweight belt between contenders Juan Archuleta and Patrick Mix.