Wikipedia - Bellator MMA
Bellator MMA (formerly Bellator Fighting Championships) is an American mixed martial arts promotion founded in 2008 by Bjorn Rebney. The promotion takes its name from bellātor, the Latin word for "warrior". Bellator's first event was held in 2009, and the promotion has since held 301 "numbered" events.
At one point, Bellator was considered the second largest MMA promotion in the United States, and one of the largest combat sport promotions in the world. Paramount Global (formerly Viacom) purchased majority ownership of Bellator from Rebney in 2011, with Paramount's television networks serving as the promotion's media broadcasters in the United States. On November 20, 2023, after then-broadcast home Showtime announced the discontinuation of its sports division, Bellator MMA was acquired by the Professional Fighters League (PFL). The Bellator brand has since been maintained for selected events, such as the "Bellator Champions Series", while its roster has competed in PFL events.
History
Bellator was founded in 2008 by Chairman and CEO Bjorn Rebney. Under Rebney's ownership, Bellator events were structured around single-elimination tournaments.[] In December 2011, Viacom purchased majority ownership of Bellator.
In May 2014, Bellator hosted the company's inaugural pay-per-view event, Bellator 120, from the Landers Center.
In June 2014, it was announced that both Chairman/CEO Bjorn Rebney and President Tim Danaher were relieved of their positions. Rebney was succeeded by Strikeforce founder Scott Coker. Under Coker, Bellator would drop its season-long tournament format in early 2015, transitioning into more of a traditional, single-fight event schedule. Since 2018, Bellator has alson hosted divisional grand-prix tournaments.
PFL ownership
In October 2023, Showtime announced that it would discontinue its sports division, with any future sports programming being handled by CBS Sports moving forward, and the division "continu[ing] to air and support the remaining 2023 boxing slate and honor obligations through the end of the year". It was reported that Paramount Global was concurrently seeking to sell Bellator. Bellator 301 was subsequently promoted as the promotion's final event on Showtime.
On November 20, 2023, it was announced that the Professional Fighters League had acquired Bellator MMA; fighters contracted to Bellator will be able to compete in PFL events. PFL founder Donn Davis announced a planned "mega event" in 2024 that would feature PFL champions fighting against Bellator champions (PFL vs. Bellator), and that it would retain the "Bellator" brand for the new "Bellator Champions Series" cards. In March 2024, it was announced that the media rights to Bellator had been acquired by TNT Sports, with events moving to Max and supplemental content on TruTV.
Step into the ring and experience the thrill of the Bellator Boxing Tournament, where the world's most skilled boxers come together to showcase their talent, determination, and heart. This premier event promises to deliver electrifying matchups, intense rivalries, and unforgettable moments that will leave fans on the edge of their seats.
**Event Highlights:**
- **Elite Competition:** Watch as top-ranked fighters from around the globe compete for glory and the coveted Bellator championship title. Each bout is a testament to the athletes' dedication, discipline, and passion for the sport.
- **Diverse Weight Classes:** From featherweights to heavyweights, the Bellator Boxing Tournament features a wide range of weight classes, ensuring that every fan finds their favorite fighters and thrilling matchups to cheer for.
- **World-Class Venue:** Held in a state-of-the-art arena, the tournament provides an immersive experience for fans, complete with high-definition screens, dynamic lighting, and an electric atmosphere that brings the excitement of boxing to life.
- **Pre-Event Festivities:** Join us for a day of festivities leading up to the main event, including meet-and-greets with fighters, interactive fan zones, and live entertainment that celebrates the spirit of boxing.
- **Live Broadcast:** Can't make it to the venue? No problem! The Bellator Boxing Tournament will be broadcast live, allowing fans around the world to witness the action as it unfolds.
Whether you're a die-hard boxing enthusiast or a casual fan, the Bellator Boxing Tournament is an event you won't want to miss. Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled experience filled with fierce competition, sportsmanship, and the relentless pursuit of victory. Get ready to cheer for your favorites and witness history in the making at the Bellator Boxing Tournament!