Linton Vassell expected Ryan Bader next but ended up entering the 2024 PFL season instead. Vassell (24-8) was scheduled to challenge Bellator heavyweight champion Bader (31-8) this past October but withdrew due to lingering effects of COVID. In the meantime, Bader faced 2023 PFL champion Renan Ferreira in February but was knocked out in just 21 seconds . Vassell still thought he’d get to run things back with Bader but ended up accepting an offer to join the 2024 PFL season when he was told Bader isn’t ready yet. “I was supposed to fight Bader, which didn’t happen,” Vassell told MMA Junkie Radio. “I got sick in October.