Mason Fowler will be defending his belt for the third time against Bellator heavyweight champion and former light heavyweight champion Ryan Bader. A former NCAA wrestling standout, Bader presents a different challenge than previous defenses. Also on the card, Craig Jones will face Vinny Magalhaes, who are both decorated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners, along with former judo Olympic gold medalist Satoshi Ishii. Fowler won all of his previous defenses in the overtime ruleset.

Submission Underground 17 is a grappling event that was held on Sunday 08.30.2020 at 12:00 PM ET in Portland, Oregon.

Submission Underground 16 took place Sunday, July 12, 2020 with 10 fights in Portland, Oregon.

Submission Underground 12 took place Sunday, March 29, 2020 with 9 fights in Portland, Oregon.

Submission Underground 22 took place April 25th from Portland, Oregon.