Teams
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Neiman Gracie
Michael Shipman
Asael Adjoudj
Lorenz Larkin
Darragh Kelly
Henry Corrales
Ryan Bader
Charlie Ward
Grant Neal
Steven Hill
Karl Moore
Ciaran Clarke
Brennan Ward
Fedor Emelianenko
Dante Schiro
Johnny Eblen
Steve Mowry
Alejandra Lara
Khasan Magomedsharipov
Manoel Sousa
Norbert Novenyi Jr
Peter Queally
Darrion Caldwell
Chris Gonzalez
Nikita Mikhailov
Karl Albrektsson
Sabah Homasi
Isaiah Pinson
Andy Manzolo
Brian Moore
Richie Smullen
Piotr Niedzielski
Dmytrii Hrytsenko
Daniele Scatizzi
Liam McCracken
Joel Kouadja
Jaylon Bates
Mukhamed Berkhamov
Louie Sutherland
Maciej Rozanski
Karolina Sobek
Oleg Popov
Gokhan Saricam
Jena Bishop
Elina Kallionidou
Dorval Jordan
Michelle Montague
Jackie Cataline
Abraham Bably
Desiree Yanez
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.
Welcome to Bellator MMA, where the world's most elite mixed martial artists converge to showcase their skills, determination, and heart in the ultimate test of combat sports. Founded in 2008, Bellator has rapidly ascended to become one of the premier organizations in the world of MMA, known for its high-octane events, innovative matchmaking, and commitment to athlete development.
Each Bellator tournament features a thrilling lineup of fighters across multiple weight classes, competing in a series of bouts that culminate in championship showdowns. With a unique format that often includes grand prix tournaments, fighters have the opportunity to battle their way through a bracket, facing off against the best in the division for a chance to claim the coveted Bellator championship belt.
Bellator events are held in iconic venues around the globe, drawing passionate fans and creating an electric atmosphere that enhances the intensity of each fight. The organization prides itself on showcasing a diverse roster of talent, from rising stars to seasoned veterans, ensuring that every event is packed with excitement and unpredictability.
In addition to the thrilling fights, Bellator is dedicated to promoting sportsmanship, respect, and the spirit of competition. The organization emphasizes fighter safety and well-being, implementing rigorous medical protocols and providing a platform for athletes to grow and succeed in their careers.
Join us for the next Bellator tournament, where legends are born, rivalries are ignited, and the quest for glory unfolds inside the cage. Experience the adrenaline, the drama, and the unforgettable moments that make Bellator MMA a must-see event for fight fans around the world!