VIDEO | Paul Daley gets an intense Rory MacDonald to crack a smile during faceoff

Many are anxious to see former UFC title challenger Rory MacDonald get back to competition as he is set to make his debut for the Bellator MMA promotion on Friday.

The former #1 UFC ranked welterweight contender will take on the hard-hitting Paul Daley in his debut at Bellator 179, which is taking place in London, England.

On Wednesday, the two opponents faced off and Daley approached the staredown with a much lighter attitude than MacDonald. It was a bit different from their first staredown as Daley got MacDonald to crack from being so serious as he said with a smile, “Looking so tense there Rory, chill out, bro.” The media in attendance, as well as MMA legend Royce Gracie who was conducting the faceoff, got a kick out of Daley’s comment as well.

This Friday, #PaulDaley defends home turf at @SSEArena against 'The Red King' @Rory_MacDonald. Who comes out victorious? #Bellator179 pic.twitter.com/xOSIHtkpIL

— Bellator MMA (@BellatorMMA) May 17, 2017

Rory MacDonald last fought in June of last year where he lost a unanimous decision fight after going five rounds with current #1 UFC ranked welterweight Stephen Thompson. Prior to the fight with Thompson, MacDonald lost a UFC title fight to then-champion Robbie Lawler in what many fans voted as the best fight in UFC history. MacDonald looks to improve on his 18-4 record and fight for a Bellator title with a win over Daley.

Paul Daley is coming off a Bellator 170 first round knockout over Brennan Ward, which took place in January. Prior to the fight against Ward, Daley lost a unanimous decision to Douglas Lima, who would go on to win the Bellator welterweight title in his following fight.

In the co-main event of the evening, Liam McGeary and Linton Vassell will fight for the claim of King of England. The two English fighters started with a serious staredown and also ended with some humor.

"The Battle of Britain" Who walks away the King of England on Friday night? @Liam_McGeary or @LDV_TheSwarm? #Bellator179 pic.twitter.com/m2lmWWYDNC

— Bellator MMA (@BellatorMMA) May 17, 2017

Who are you predicting to have their hand raised at Bellator 170? Let’s get your predictions in the comment section!

on 5/17/2017.