It's a done deal.
After much speculation over the weekend about the signing of Roger Huerta on the part of the upstart promotion in the MMA groundswell, Bellator FC formally announced the exclusive signing of Huerta during a press conference from Chicago, Illinois this afternoon.
"El Matador" will compete in Bellator's season two lightweight tournament, with the winner earning a shot to take on the current lightweight champ, Eddie Alvarez.
Huerta (21-3-1) last fought in September of 2009 where he suffered the second of back-to-back losses when Gray Maynard edged him out in a split decision victory. That fight came about a year after his unanimous decision loss to Kenny Florian at UFC 87. Roger took the time off between fights to pursue his acting and modeling careers.
Now back in the mix as a lightweight fighter in a top promotion, Huerta aims to show fight fans everywhere that he hasn't lost a step and is still the same guy that reeled off six straight wins in the UFC's tough lightweight division.
"The main reason I signed with Bellator instead of Strikeforce is their format. I have a chance to control my own destiny. And that's what I want. I have the chance to fight four times this year. I want to get back to being active. I'm hungry. I'm ready," Huerta said in describing the reason he chose Bellator over other MMA promotions.
Roger's first fight will take place on April 8 from the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida and will air live on FOX Sports Net.
Other participants in Bellator's season two lightweight tournament include Toby Imada, Janne Tulirinta, Chad Hinton, Ferrid Kheder, Mike Ricci, and Carey Vainer.
Keep it locked to MMAmania.com for the announcement of the final fighter that will compete in this season's lightweight tournament.
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