Sara McMann left the UFC back in September to test her worth as a free agent and she’s now signed a multi-fight deal with Bellator.
The 42-year-old McMann is a former Olympic wrestling silver medalist who went on to fight Ronda Rousey for the UFC bantamweight title back in 2014 and overall compiled a 7-6 record in the promotion.
In a statement McMann revealed why she left the UFC and how she eventually decided to continue her career with Bellator.
“After a lot of consideration and negotiation, I’ve decided to fight for Bellator in the featherweight division. Before my fight with Karol Rosa, Jennifer Goldstein (my amazing manager) asked if I wanted to test free agency or remain with the UFC no matter what. I told her that while I have enjoyed my career fighting for the UFC, I am at a different point in life than when I initially signed with them,” McMann wrote.
“I’m at a very fortunate time in Women’s MMA where other promotions will offer very enticing contracts if you are a top ranked fighter. It’s not easy to leave some of the great people I’ve met or the excellent bantamweight fighters I’ve faced. Bellator made an offer that I simply couldn’t refuse. I hope to keep all of my friends in the UFC while making new friends in Bellator. The fighting world is a tight knit community and I respect all of the athletes who put it on the line. My desire to be the world champion at featherweight is very strong because I truly believe Bellator has the premier fighters in the world at that weight class. Thank you to every one of my fans, you all are legit fight fans (or wrestlers 😂) and I can’t wait to showcase my skills without a tough weight cut 😅
Some fans have asked about retirement. The honest answer is that I just really like fighting and don’t want to stop yet 🤷🏻♀️🤣 I have a Masters in Mental Health Counseling and I really look forward to the day I can do counseling full time. But not yet…”
