Bellator has released its three remaining female fighters, effectively dissolving its women’s division.
It was announced Tuesday that Jessica Eye (10-1) had been let go by the promotion. That same day, Invicta announced that former Bellator fighter Felice Herrig (9-4) had signed with the all-female promotion. Jessica Aguilar (15-4) last fought in March.
Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney issued a statement about the status of the women’s division Tuesday night.
“Jessica Eye, Jessica Aguilar and Felice represent all that is good in women’s MMA. Both Eye and Aguilar are ranked No. 1 in the world in their respective divisions and carry themselves with class and distinction elevating the women’s game,” Rebney said.
He continued, “I’ve said many times that fighters need to fight and fight often. Given our current focus, we are not in position to provide these very deserving women regular and reoccurring fights on a large platform. And, I felt it was best to let them go and secure options that did. I genuinely wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors and will be rooting for each of them wherever they fight.”
Aguilar said she was happy with Bellator and that the promotion treated her well.
“It’s bittersweet only because I started with Bellator on day one at the beginning. I was out there with Bjorn going to TV stations and radio stations doing interviews with him and Eddie Alvarez,” she said. “I was there since day one, and what a journey. They employed me and I was very happy with them.”
Aguilar also said Bellator made her dream of being number one in the world possible and that she was thankful for everything the promotion had done for her.
“I’m sad to leave Bellator because I started with them, and they were so good to me,” she said. “I’m ready for the next chapter for my life, and I’m excited about what it holds for me in the future.”
Jessica Eye confirmed her release on Twitter Tuesday.
Yes everyone rumor TRUE.. I have been released by Bellator. Please be respectful to them they helped me to grow Into fighter I am. #blessed
— Jessica Eye (@jessicaevileye) August 13, 2013
She also said it didn’t matter why she was released and that it was time to move on.
Herrig has signed a multi-fight deal with Invicta, and said on Twitter that she was happy about the move because she won’t have to fight outside her weight class just to get a match.
The greatest thing about being w/ an all women’s fight promotion is I never have to fight out of my weight… http://t.co/zHa1SjCgvI
— Felice Herrig (@feliceherrig) August 14, 2013
What do you think of Bellator getting rid of its women’s division? What do you think is next for Jessica Eye and Jessica Aguilar?
[Pictured: Felice Herrig]