A catchweight division encounter is the latest addition to next months Bellator 197 card as Zach Freeman is going to be in action against Zak Bucia.
Freeman (9-3-0) has won one of two fights under the Bellator MMA banner, with that lone win coming over Aaron Pico at Bellator 180. Freeman has previously challenged for the Resurrection Fighting Alliance Lightweight Title, losing to Thiago Moises by unanimous decision at RFA 44. Freeman has appeared twice already in Bellator MMA competition and both of those fights in the promotion, when the times are added up, have lasted less than two minutes.
Bucia (18-9-0) is currently winless in Bellator MMA competition, dropping a bout to Neiman Gracie by second round submission at Bellator 185. Bucia is also a former Shamrock FC Welterweight Champion, defeating Aaron Highfill at Shamrock FC 295 to win the gold. Bucia also won one of three during his time in Strikeforce, with win coming over Adam Steel at Strikeforce: Destruction in November 2008.
Bellator 197 takes place on Friday, April 13 from the Family Arena in St. Louis, Missouri with Brent Primus and Michael Chandler headlining. Fightful is providing live coverage of the event, which airs live on the Paramount Network.