After a failed attempt to secure a lightweight bout with Michael Chandler, “Pitbull” will headline Bellator’s first trip to Rome, Italy, on July 14, against Daniel Weichel. In the co-main event, Alessio Sakara battles Jamie Sloane.
Bellator officials confirmed the news to MMA Fighting after Weichel announced the bout on his social media.
Freire (26-4) defeated Weichel via second-round knockout back in June 2015 at Bellator 138. The Brazilian was rocked early in the fight, but managed to come back and defend his belt.
Weichel (39-9), who pulled out of a November clash with Freire due to a knee injury, has won four in a row since his loss to the featherweight champion three years ago, including wins over Georgi Karakhanyan and Emmanuel Sanchez.