Bellator signs ACA light heavyweight champion Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov

While it might not make quite the waves of some of the promotion’s other recent signings, Bellator has inked another notable light heavyweight.

MMA Junkie today learned that Bellator has added Absolute Championship Akhmat light heavyweight champion Dovletdzhan Yagshimuradov to its 205-pound roster. Promotion officials confirmed the exclusive, multi-fight deal, though terms of the contract were not provided.

A Turkmenistan native, Yagshimuradov (18-5-1 MMA, 0-0 BMMA) brings an eight-fight winning streak with him to Bellator. Fighting professionally since 2012, Yagshimuradov saw action most recently in December 2019, scoring a five-round decision win over Alexey Butorin for his second consecutive defense of the ACA title.

The 31-year-old is a proven finisher, with 15 of his career wins coming by stoppage, including 11 by knockout. Ten of his wins have come in the first round, including a 74-second knockout of four-time UFC veteran Joachim Christensen in 2017.

Yagshimuradov joins a division currently ruled by Russian champion Vadim Nemkov that recently added such high-profile names as Yoel Romero and Anthony Johnson. Bellator officials did not reveal when he is expected to make his promotional debut.