Undefeated Steve Mowry feels close to title contention ahead of Bellator 231

UNCASVILLE, Conn. — Steve Mowry believes there’s only one thing that separates him from the top names in Bellator’s heavyweight division. He’ll try to further close that gap at Bellator 231.

Mowry (6-0 MMA, 2-0 BMMA), the undefeated prospect who stands 6-foot-8, returns to action on Friday when he takes on promotional newcomer Gokhan Saricam (4-0 MMA, 0-0 BMMA). It’s the next chapter in his attempt to climb up the divisional pecking order, and Mowry doesn’t think he’s far off from being considered among the best.

“I think I’m close,” Mowry told MMA Junkie at Bellator 231 media day. “The only thing that separates me from the dudes that were in the (heavyweight grand prix) tournament is just fights. All those dudes, they have a lot of, ‘Been there, done that’ mileage on them. They’ve fought the best dudes. Even if it wasn’t all heavyweights the dudes in that bracket were super skilled and tough guys. Before too long I think I can be there.”

Bellator 231 takes place at Mohegan Sun Arena. Mowry vs. Saricam is part of the preliminary card, which streams on MMA Junkie prior to the main card on Paramount.

Mowry has yet to prove himself against upper echelon heavyweight competition. A win over Saricam is unlikely to change that standing, but Mowry is more concerned about getting his experience level up. When the time comes for a big jump in, Mowry knows he has the traits to compete.

“I have a good chin,” Mowry said. “I’ve sparred a lot of heavy hitters. I already knew that but it does make me deep down kind of happy that whenever the chips are down I can pull through.”