For the right kind of talent at the right place in their career, it seems like Bellator has become the natural next step. Fighters who have reached the near-pinnacle of the UFC’s ranking/divisional system, but aren’t seeing the expected financial rewards have been more willing than ever to test free agency. And as they do, Bellator has been right there to scoop them up. Ryan Bader, Lorenz Larkin, Rory MacDonald, and now former bantamweight title challenger Michael McDonald.
ESPN.com reports that the former WEC signing and longtime UFC 135er has signed a multi-fight deal with the Spike TV promotion, shortly after receiving his release from his UFC contract.