Daniel Weichel has a title to defend in the Bellator featherweight grand prix.

No it’s not championship gold. The German fighter is the last man to win a 145-pound tournament in Bellator – and he’s hoping to keep it that way.

Weichel (39-11 MMA, 8-3 BMMA), a former title challenger, takes on Saul Rogers (13-2 MMA, 1-0 BMMA) at Bellator 228 in the $1 million tournament’s opening round.

Bellator 228 takes place Saturday at The Forum in Inglewood, Calif., near Los Angeles. The main card streams on DAZN following prelims on MMA Junkie.

Even though he participated in the Bjorn Rebney-era tournament in 2014, Weichel told MMA Junkie the 2019 tournament won’t give him much of a mental advantage. The format is different, with every fight after the opening round being a five-round fight. Additionally, the stakes are much higher, he said.

“It’s a different format of a tournament,” Weichel said. “The last tournament was all three fights in about three months. Now, it’ll be a little bit different, but I’m even more excited now.

“I know it’s more in the spotlight and it’s got a lot of attention. Not only because of the belt, but it’s $1 million (on the line), and to become the best featherweight in the world. I’m really pumped for this and really looking forward to it.”

If he were to win the 16-man tournament, Weichel said the money would be life-changing. Even though he’s competed as a professional since 2002, Weichel said there’s still room for improving his home life. His main motivation is being able to provide for his family to the fullest.

“I’m thinking a bout what I’d do with this money,” Weichel said. “It’s life-changing, but it’s not the only thing. It’s about the legacy. It’s about becoming champion and the $1 million. It’ll help me provide the way I want to for my family and do the things I’ve always wanted to do.”

When Weichel enters the cage Saturday night, he’ll lock horns with former “Ultimate Fighter” competitor Rogers. “The Hangman” was kept from competing at the TUF 22 Finale after a visa mishap in 2015. Since that time, Rogers has gone 3-1 overall and 1-0 in Bellator.

“I think we match up pretty well,” Weichel said, of Rogers. “It’s a pretty good matchup for me. I don’t think there is any area where he is dangerous for me. I think I’m the better striker, the better wrestler, and better on the ground. I can’t wait to show this.

“… Fans can expect that I’ll go for the finish inside the three rounds.”