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North-East MMA fan favourite Ryan ‘Big Baby’ Scope will return to the cage this December when BAMMA takes over the Metro Radio Arena on December 15.

Scope, 10-1, is one of the most highly touted of young fighters in the region and will be looking to enhance his reputation when he faces former UFC veteran Mickael Lebout in the co-main event of the evening.

Speaking of his opponent, Scope didn’t seem fazed by Lebout’s top level experience: “ I know he fought in the UFC couple of time so I know he’s experienced but it didn’t go too well for him. This fight will be finished in the first round.”

This will be the first time Scope has fought since his bout with Lew Long on Made4TheCage23 in February, the only loss of his career to date.

However, Scope insists that he will be a different fighter come December: “I know what went wrong in that fight, it was a risky step up for me but I didn’t get outclassed in there. If I could have that fight back I’d take it in a heartbeat.

“I’ve had an injury since then, I was doing some downhill biking and crashed so that’s what has kept me out but leading up to this training has been spot on.”

This will be the second time that Scope has fought at his home arena, having defeated Luke Newman at the same venue back in 2013 and there was a large contingent there on the night just to support him.

Scope’s popularity in the region is a big part of why BAMMA has placed such a big faith in putting the Washington fighter so far up the card.

The cross promotion with MMA giants Bellator will only add to pressure of the occasion but Scope insists the slot is where he belongs.

“It’s nice to fight [at the Metro Radio Arena],” he said. “I’ve been there before and the arena was packed so hopefully that shows I belong there. I’m expecting a good reaction, better than him hopefully.”

The bout with Lebout is already the talk of the UK MMA scene on social media but for those who may be unfamiliar with the sport or the fighters themselves Scope ensures this will be one to watch.

He added: “Whether you’ve seen me before or not, you won’t recognise me because this will be the new and improved me.

“This fight is going to be explosive. It’s going to be fast paced and I can’t wait to put on a show.”

BAMMA Newcastle will also feature fan favourites such as Colin ‘Freakshow’ Fletcher and M4TC British Heavyweight Champion, Tony Mustard in what promises to be a showcase of great North-East MMA talent.

Geordie Shore star Aaron Chalmers is also on the card and will be one to watch after his viscous highlight reel knockout against Alex Thompson last month.

Tickets for the BAMMA/Bellator cross promotion can be found at ticketmaster.co.uk, if you’re a fight fan, this is not one to miss.

Words Ben Holden