Former UFC light-heavyweight title challenger Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson is headed to Bellator MMA as per Ariel Helwani. He is expected to make his promotional debut for Bellator in the first half of 2021.
Johnson last fought at UFC 210 against Daniel Cormier for the light-heavyweight championship and lost via submission. He has been out of the MMA scene since then. Johnson was expected to return to the UFC in 2021. But it looks like his future lies with Bellator MMA.
Anthony “Rumble” Johnson is headed to Bellator.
“Rumble” has agreed to terms with Bellator, per sources. He hasn’t signed his deal just yet, but he’s expected to imminently, sources say.
Johnson recently mutually parted ways with the UFC, according to sources.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) December 9, 2020
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‘Rumble’ has reportedly agreed on terms with Bellator, but is yet to sign a deal with the promotion. But he is expected to sign a deal with them soon. The UFC and Johnson have reportedly parted ways mutually.
Johnson is one of the most vicious knockout artists ever to have fought in MMA. Starting from welterweight, he holds knockout wins over 3 weight divisions up to light heavyweight.
It was long rumored Johnson will return to competition in 2021. He even announced a warning to the UFC light-heavyweight division recently.
A possible career in heavyweight was also suggested, with ‘The Predator’ Francis Ngannou seemingly interested in a fight against Johnson.
Anthony Johnson is certain to make Bellator MMA interesting
But it looks like those fantasy matchups are no longer on the cards with ‘Rumble’ looking to move out to greener pastures. The inclusion of Johnson will make Bellator’s light-heavyweight division more interesting.
Recently former UFC contender Corey Anderson joined the promotion too. Also, the likes of Phil Davis and Ryan Bader are already there, not to mention.
Vadim Nemkov is currently the champion of Bellator’s light heavyweight division. He defeated the former champion and the current heavyweight champion Ryan Bader to win the belt. Johnson’s arrival will certainly shake things up.
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With Corey Anderson already there and now a scary power puncher like Johnson arriving, there are some entertaining fights ahead in Bellator, no doubt.
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Johnson will potentially be given the title shot soon enough. His 4-year-long layoff may be an issue to grant him an immediate shot at the title, but if he can manage an impressive win or two, he is going to get it in no time.
How do you think Johnson will fare at Bellator MMA? Can he become the champion?
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