Bellator MMA was able to find a home away from home in Ireland where some of the top talent from the Emerald Isle featured on some iconic events.
Arguably the biggest name of the bunch was James Gallagher who recently announced on social media that he is now a free agent.
Posting on Instagram, the 28-year old announced that he has parted ways with the PFL having fought once since the promotion acquired Bellator towards the end of 2023.
"The Strabanimal" fought 12 times under the Bellator banner after making his debut in the promotion back in July of 2016 where he rose to prominence with a four-fight win streak.
It isn't clear where the Irishman will end up but he was keen to reflect on some memories on his way out the foor:
“I want to thank PFL for granting me my release out of my contract,” Gallagher wrote on Instagram.
“I signed up to Bellator as a 19 year old kid with a 3-0 record right into the main card in the The O2, London. Bellator was something special. I’m so grateful for all the years of hard work that I put in that I could be the first Irish guy at the fore front for them in Ireland to build up Bellator Europe.
“I put my heart in soul into each and every event. I’m sad that this area of my life is over, but excited for my future as a 28 year old young man who had to learn on the job as I built my way up to CO main eventing Bellator 180 in a sold out Madison Square Garden in NYC to being main eventing on multiple occasions at home, the place where every Irish fighter dreams of selling out the 3Arena.
“It was really just a cocky kid that worked hard and achieved his dreams. I’m so thankful to everyone at Bellator they were a pleasure to work with and grow with over the years. I am only 28 years old young and have got veteran experience now from handling crowds, media and everything that comes with it.
As the area of my life is over a new one begins. Thank you to absolutely everyone who supported my career with Bellator who spent their hard earned money to come and see me fight. The next rise is going to blow it out of the water and we will make one thing clear, there’s no fucking show like a JIMMY SHOW.
“This is not the end, it’s the beginning of something bigger. Thank you Bellator.”
