Former UFC title challenger Sara McMann tested free agency following her final fight on her UFC contract and signed a multi-fight deal with Bellator MMA.
McMann broke the news via social media and explained her decision.
“After a lot of consideration and negotiation, I’ve decided to fight for Bellator in the featherweight division,” McMann posted to her Instagram account. “Before my fight with Karol Rosa, Jennifer Goldstein (my amazing manager) asked if I wanted to test free agency or remain with the UFC no matter what. I told her that while I have enjoyed my career fighting for the UFC, I am at a different point in life than when I initially signed with them.
“I’m at a very fortunate time in Women’s MMA where other promotions will offer very enticing contracts if you are a top ranked fighter. It’s not easy to leave some of the great people I’ve met or the excellent bantamweight fighters I’ve faced. Bellator made an offer that I simply couldn’t refuse,” McMann continued.
“I hope to keep all of my friends in the UFC while making new friends in Bellator. The fighting world is a tight knit community and I respect all of the athletes who put it on the line. My desire to be the world champion at featherweight is very strong because I truly believe Bellator has the premier fighters in the world at that weight class. Thank you to every one of my fans, you all are legit fight fans (or wrestlers) and I can’t wait to showcase my skills without a tough weight cut.
“Some fans have asked about retirement. The honest answer is that I just really like fighting and don’t want to stop yet. I have a Masters in Mental Health Counseling and I really look forward to the day I can do counseling full time. But not yet…”
Former UFC title challenger Sara McMann inks multi-fight deal with Bellator
