The official roster for “Bellator 71” has been finalized, which means the opponent for one Brett Rogers (Pictured) has been named. “Da Grim” makes his promotional debut against little-known, yet highly skilled, Kevin Asplund.
Bellator Fighting Championships inked Rogers to a contract last week. The former Strikeforce star has dropped four of his last five fights, with his most recent defeat coming to Eddie Sanchez at “Titan Fighting Championships 20″ in September.
The controversial heavyweight started his professional career with 10 consecutive victories. He was fired from Strikeforce last June after beating his wife.
Asplund, Rogers’ former training partner, has rattled off 15 consecutive wins since losing his pro premiere in September of 2002.
The June 22nd event takes place inside Mountaineer Casino in Chester, West Virginia. Bellator will be kicking off their Summer Series Light Heavyweight Tournament in the show.
MTV2 broadcasts the main card beginning at 8PM ET/PT.
Here is the complete lineup for Bellator 71:
Preliminary Card:
(Spike.com 7PM ET/4PM PT)
E.J. Brooks vs. Joey Holt
Neil Johnson vs. Brylan Van Artsdalen
Jason Butcher vs. Duane Bastress
John Hawk vs. Tim Carpenter
Josh Stansbury vs. Dan Spohn
Main Card:
(MTV2 8PM ET/PT)
Brett Rogers vs. Kevin Asplund
Light Heavyweight Tournament Quarterfinal:
Rich Hale vs. Beau Tribolet
Roy Boughton vs. Emanuel Newton
Zelg Galesic vs. Attila Vegh
Travis Wiuff vs. Chris Davis