Bellator signs LFA light heavyweight Alex Polizzi to long-term deal

Recently-crowned LFA light heavyweight champion Alex Polizzi is heading to Bellator.

Two weeks ago, the LFA title was wrapped around Polizzi’s waist for the first time when he submitted Dana White’s Contender Series alumnus Jamal Pogues with a fourth-round heel hook.

It didn’t take long for Bellator to come knocking, and the promotion soon after signed Polizzi (6-0 MMA, 0-0 BMMA) to a “long-term contract,” a promotion official told MMA Junkie.

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Polizzi wrestled at Northwestern University After college, he mostly has competed on the Midwest regional scene en route to his title shot in late February. He’s never gone the distance, picking up three TKOs and three submission victories under his belt. All of this was accomplished in his first 18 months as a professional.

“In the fights I’ve had, I’m not afraid to expand outside of what’s orthodox within MMA, within the wrestling, within the muay Thai, within the boxing,” Polizzi told MMA Junkie in January. “I’m not afraid to step outside those skillsets and do some unconventional moves. I’ll do unconventional attacks. I’m just hoping people can enjoy watching me do what I do. I’m always having fun out there and I just hope the people watching are having half the fun. That’s what makes it all worth it.”

Polizzi was featured as one of MMA Junkie’s five “On the Doorstep” fighters in January 2020.