Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson shocked the world by signing for Bellator despite being linked with UFC
Former UFC Light Heavyweight contender Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson shocked the world after news of him signing for rival promotion Bellator came out.
Noted journalist, Ariel Helwani, broke the news on social media. Johnson hadn’t fought since 2017 after losing to Daniel Cormier at UFC 210.
Johnson had never won a title in the UFC but had come close several times. He made a shock decision to make a return to MMA ahead of 2020 and many believed he was set to join the UFC.
However, Helwani claimed that the 36-year-old had agreed to join Bellator instead and would sign a deal soon.
Rumble would also compete in Bellator from 2021 in the Light Heavyweight division, and that got a lot of people talking.
While there was no news from the UFC on this, a legend claimed this was a huge signing for Bellator. Former UFC champion Cris Cyborg is now starring for Bellator and she was excited seeing Rumble join the roster.
No reason has surfaced as to why Johnson swapped the UFC for Bellator but his former promotion has been on a roster cutting spree.
Dana White had let go of Yoel Romero and Anderson Silva, two of the biggest names recently since they were ageing and on losing streaks.
They also let go of some other UFC stars such as Rachael Ostovich, and that could have played on Rumble’s mind regarding his return.
White confirmed that 60 names would be cut before 2020 and some other big names could bite the dust.
Nevertheless, Rumble returning to MMA is a huge deal as he remains one of the most dangerous men on the planet.
Bellator certainly has gotten a huge name on their roster and it will be interesting to see who Johnson fights next.
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