Bellator 242 official for July 24, full card announced including return of Aaron Pico

After a five-month absence, Bellator MMA has officially announced its return show on July 24 from the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn.

The promotion confirmed the news on Wednesday.

As MMA Fighting previously reported, Sergio Pettis will clash with Ricky Bandejas in a bantamweight showdown that will headline Bellator 242. Both fighters are coming off statement victories and the winner of this matchup will undoubtedly move closer to title contention.

The co-main event will feature former UFC welterweight Jordan Mein taking on Jason Jackson in a welterweight showcase.

Also announced for the main card is the return of highly touted prospect Aaron Pico as he faces off with Chris Hatley Jr. in a featherweight matchup that will kick off the main card on the Paramount Network at 10 p.m. ET on July 24.

The final fight on the main card will see Tywan Claxton square off against Jay Jay Wilson.

“On July 24, Bellator is back,” Bellator MMA President Scott Coker said in a release. “I am thrilled to announce our return event this month at Mohegan Sun, which has always been an incredible venue partner for us. The team has worked tirelessly to make this show happen and I know the fighters are ready to compete.

“We put together an exciting card with great matchups, featuring some of our best rising prospects. We look forward to our fans joining us on Paramount Network for what will surely be a memorable night of action inside the Bellator cage.”

The three fight preliminary card will also feature the return of former Minnesota wrestling standout Logan Storley as he seeks to extend his perfect record against Mark Lemminger.

Bellator hasn’t staged a show since February with numerous cards being cancelled due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The MMA promotion will share a residency at the Mohegan Sun with Showtime Boxing as well.

While no exact details were revealed, Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment president Tom Canton promised a “comprehensive and extensive safety plan for all guests, team members and partners.”

Here’s the full card for Bellator 242:

MAIN CARD (10 p.m. ET on Paramount Network)

MAIN EVENT: Sergio Pettis vs. Ricky Bandejas

Jason Jackson vs. Jordan Mein

Tywan Claxton vs. Jay Jay Wilson

Aaron Pico vs. Chris Hatley Jr.

BELLATOR 242 PRELIMS (8:45 p.m. ET on Bellator’s YouTube Channel)

Logan Storley vs. Mark Lemminger

Raufeon Stots vs. Cass Bell

Steve Mowry vs. Rudy Schaffroth