No main event, no problem: Matt Mitrione happy to have less Bellator 241 responsibility

UNCASVILLE, Conn. – It’s a much more relaxed fight week for Matt Mitrione than what he’s experienced in the past.

Mitrione (13-7 MMA, 4-2 BMMA) faces Ronny Markes (19-7 MMA, 0-0 BMMA) this Friday on the main card of Bellator 241, stepping in on short notice for Josh Barnett, who was forced out due to failing a medical requirement.

So for Mitrione, who’s headlined his last four straight shows, not having to do many media obligations has made the process a whole lot easier.

“I love it; that means I fight earlier in the night, too,” Mitrione told MMA Junkie. “Yeah man, it’s great. Less responsibility is an awesome thing, especially stepping in. You go train as much as you possibly can for this situation. You can’t overthink it, you just go in there and work. Cool, let’s go work.”

Mitrione admits he wasn’t too familiar with promotional debutant Markes, having to ask a few friends for pointers. After winning four straight contests, Mitrione is now looking to rebound from his current two-fight losing skid, dropping his last two outings to Bellator dual-champ Ryan Bader and perennial contender Sergei Kharitonov.

“It’s a different challenge,” Mitrione said. “Totally something completely different, so let’s see what goes on. I’m a professional competitor, so I compete at all costs and handle the highs and the lows as they come.”

“I’m going to give my best effort, that’s what I’m going to do. I think that he’s tough. He’s a tough kid, and I can tell you I’ll bust my ass. I’ll do everything I can to come out successful, for sure.”

Bellator 241 takes place at Mohegan Sun Arena. The night’s main card streams on DAZN following prelims on MMA Junkie.

To hear more from Mitrione, check out the video above.