ELLENOR EXCITED TO FIGHT ON HOME SOIL
Sunderland MMA star Cal ‘Pacino’ Ellenor is ready to show the North East has some serious talent ahead of his bout at Bellator Newcastle,
The 27-year-old recently signed to Bellator as part of a cohort of UK and European talent brought in by the promotion, as they look to bolster a new ‘Bellator Europe’ scene.
Cal said: “It feels great to be signed to Bellator. They’re a great organisation and I always enjoy their shows.
“It’s really a chance for me to establish myself to a mainstream audience, if I get a couple of good wins together.”
Ellenor’s promotional debut clash is on the highly anticipated Bellator Newcastle, at the Metro Radio Arena on February 9.
Three of his last four fights have been in South Africa, so he is relishing the opportunity to perform in front of a home crowd.
Ellenor added: “I can’t wait to fight at home again. I can bath in my own house and sleep in my own bed after I’ve weighed in, what beats that?
“I’m definitely looking forward to walking out for my fight in front of a packed audience, and know that there’s a load of people there supporting me.
“The amount of support I get now is unbelievable, and I can’t wait to keep promoting Sunderland and show that the North East has some serious talent.”
‘Pacino’ faces former Cage Warriors Flyweight champion Nathan Greyson, in a clash he believes is a perfect way to enter Bellator’s ranks.
“My opponent comes from a good gym, there’s some really good lower weight guys from his camp, so I know he’s got great sparring.
“I think he’s dangerous for sure, he showed that his last fight when he won the Cagewarriors world title by KO after being behind on the scorecards.
“He’s tough and athletic, but I believe I can beat him.
“Our styles make for a great contest and it’s a very good fight for us to enter the Bellator roster, as I think we will bring out the best in each other.”
There is not only an array of North East talent on display, but some of the top competitors from around the UK are set to feature.
“The whole Bellator card, from what I’ve seen so far, is possibly the best matched card I’ve seen for a while,” Cal said
“Every fight that has been announced up to now is exciting.”
“I’m looking forward to watching my team-mate Ryan Scope fight main event. We are doing yet another camp together.
“I can’t wait to have my fight and sit back and watch my team-mate go to work, as well as the rest of the North East lads.
“This is massive for everyone.”