Nemkov keeps Bellator title after Anderson fight ruled no-contest

The Bellator Light Heavyweight Grand Prix final between champion Vadim Nemkov and Corey Anderson was ruled a no-contest at Bellator 277 on Friday in San Jose.

An accidental clash of heads opened up a cut on Nemkov's eyebrow late in the third round, and the cageside doctor called off the fight.

As a result, Nemkov retained the light heavyweight title, but the grand prix is unresolved.

Anderson appeared to be ahead at the time of the stoppage, as he used his wrestling to control Nemkov in Rounds 2 and 3. Nemkov edged Anderson in the first round with jabs and low kicks.

This was Nemkov's third defense of the Bellator light heavyweight title, which he took from Ryan Bader in 2020. The Russia native beat Phil Davis by decision and Julius Anglickas by TKO last year to remain champion and advance to the tournament final.

Anderson earned a spot in the final with stoppage wins over Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov and Bader. The former UFC contender was 3-0 in Bellator heading into Friday's title shot.