The former UFC fighter, Wanderlei Silva, who made a name for himself in PRIDE, in Japan, is now part of Bellator MMA after signing with the Viacom-owned promotion this week.
The promotion announced an exclusive multi-year agreement, which includes multiple fights.
Silva was released from his Zuffa contract earlier this year and will not be available to compete until his suspension from the Nevada Athletic Commission (NSAC) ends in 2017. Technically, he can fight overseas (as a loan to Rizin), but it could jeopardize Bellator's relationship with the state commissions.
This will also give him time to secure his first opponent in a roster that continues to grow and grow. Fans will probably see the Brazilian during live events, shaking hands and kissing babies as he has done in the past.
Silva (35-12-1, 1 NC) will turn 40 in July. Bellator remains the home for most of the veteran fighters that UFC is leaving out of its roster. One of their latest additions is Benson Henderson, who went from Dana White's promotion to become part of Bellator.