It has been 19 months since heavyweight champion Vitaly Minakov defended his title against Cheick Kongo at Bellator 115.

Since that night in Reno, Nevada, Minakov has not fought under the Bellator banner. He compiled a 3-0 record while fighting for Russian regional promotion Fight Nights, which is owned and operated by his manager Kamil Gadzhiev. Most recently, the undefeated Russian beat former UFC fighter Josh Copeland by submission.

So why did Minakov opt to fight in his native land instead of for the promotion he was contractually obligated to? If you ask him, he is not certain why Bellator didn't strip him of the title.

"I'm actually surprised that over the past two years, the belt has not been defended." Minakov told BloodandSweat.ru.

Minakov explained that his return to Bellator would depend on whether the promotional brass is willing to match his contract demands.

"Whether I defend or not will depends on the company Bellator, which is now being negotiated for improvement of our contract. I think everything is possible. And the fact that they have not played in two years of my absence, even temporary championship belt, speaks volumes."

Ultimatley, Minkaov confirmed that he is interested in a return to the United States, and is not overly concerned as to which promotion he fights for.

"By and large, I am not concerned where I fight, whether Bellator or the UFC. I have the desire to fight in the United States .The main thing is to respect me as an athlete, and offer the conditions that I really deserve."