Bellator’s ‘Recharged’ Brings Classic Events, Fights to CBS Sports Network on Weekly Basis

Bellator MMA has found a home for some of its most memorable fight cards and bouts.

The California-based promotion announced Monday that the new series, entitled “Bellator MMA Recharged,” will debut on CBS Sports Network on April 25 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. That night the program will focus on the promotion’s heavyweight grand prix and will include Bellator 192 and Bellator 194.

The show will be hosted by longtime referee and current Bellator analyst “Big” John McCarthy. After its premiere, further episodes will air on CBS Sports Network every Wednesday, beginning April 29, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

“I am excited to have found a new home for Bellator’s vast library of programming on CBS Sports Network – some of which have been the biggest cards in the history of MMA,” said Bellator president Scott Coker. “This is a great way to increase Bellator’s visibility across additional ViacomCBS platforms, while giving our fans the opportunity to relive these incredible events again.”

The Bellator heavyweight grand prix began with a bracket that included Fedor Emelianenko, Quinton Jackson, Chael Sonnen, Ryan Bader, Muhammed Lawal, Frank Mir, Matt Mitrione and Roy Nelson. Ultimately, Bader defeated Emelianenko in the final to become the Bellator heavyweight champion.

"We look forward to showcasing the excitement of Bellator MMA action on CBS Sports Network. It’s a chance to present some of the biggest names in MMA while providing fight fans another opportunity to watch the spectacle of the best events," said CBS Sports Executive Vice President of Programming Dan Weinberg. "Bellator MMA Recharged demonstrates the ability we have to amplify ViacomCBS properties across our various platforms and assets, while servicing the fans with the exciting action they want."

Bellator MMA has suspended its schedule of events through May due to the coronavirus pandemic. The only upcoming event on the promotion’s calendar that has not been canceled it Bellator 244, which is slated for Chicago on June 6.