Bellator MMA is no longer just a mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion, today (Thurs., Feb. 18, 2016) announcing the debut of "Bellator Kickboxing" -- complete with a handful of recognizable stars from the world of stand-up fighting, including Joe Schilling, Kevin Ross, Kerri Taylor-Melendez, and Anastasia Yankova, among others.
The first event drops April 16 in Torino, Italy, in conjunction with Oktagon kickboxing, immediately following Bellator 152. The promotion is expected to stage a handful of smaller, regional tournaments in the interim.
Promotion president Scott Coker made the surprise announcement during today's press conference in Houston, Texas (watch the replay here), where the Bellator cast and crew is preparing for Friday night's "Shamrock vs.