Heather Hardy and Ana Julaton set to make history in the octagon AND the boxing ring

It was a big year for women athletes in 2017. In the combat sports world, everyone took notice at the power of female fighters. Heather Hardy and Ana Julaton will continue that trend as they look to create history. The two will fight one another inside the octagon and the boxing ring later this year.

Bellator announced that both fighters will be at Bellator 194 on February 16th at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut. Sometime after, the two will face off in their comfort zone, a boxing ring, under the promotion of DiBella Entertainment and Orion Sports Management.

For Hardy (1-1 MMA, 20-0 boxing), it’s a chance to show the world who she truly is. One of the most dominant female boxers of all time, Heather Hardy changed the landscape of the sport while dominating the Brooklyn scene. She is a WBC International Featherweight and Super Bantamweight Champion. The fight is also a chance to avenge a loss to the (at the time) unknown Kristina Williams in the same arena at Bellator 185.

The same could be said for Julaton (2-3 MMA, 14-4-1 boxing) who also lost at Bellator 185 to Lisa Blaine. Some say it would have been easier to market the fights if they both won their bouts. With the skill level of these two however, the decision was made without question. The drawing power these two have, especially Hardy in Brooklyn (if the boxing match were to take place there), makes the two bouts that much more appealing. It’s a comeback bout for both of them in the octagon. It’s also a dream match for any boxing fan.

Bellator and the boxing world will be making a huge gamble with these fights. If all goes according to plan, both athletes will be welcomed with widespread acclaim. It will also give both sports something to brag about. Events like this are rare, and if done right, it can open the door for future opportunities.

Bellator 194 takes place in Uncasville, Connecticut. The main event features Matt Mitrione v. Roy Nelson in a Heavyweight Grand Prix Opening Round match.