Former Bellator double champion Ryan Bader is once again a free agent.
Per Ariel Helwani, Bader and the Professional Fighter’s League (PFL) have amicably parted ways despite a single fight left on Bader’s current contract. It’s uncertain who proposed the contract termination, but Bader will now enter 2025 as a free agent, which is an interesting position for the accomplished 41-year-old wrestler.
Bader leaves the promotion not as champion due to a 21-second KO loss at the massive hands of Renan Ferreira. Prior to that defeat, Bader put together a three-fight win streak over the likes of Fedor Emelianenko and Cheick Kongo, defending his Bellator Heavyweight crown multiple times in the process.
This isn’t the first time Bader has been a high-profile free agent. Way back in 2017, Bader opted to leave the UFC roster and join Bellator. It proved a wise decision, as he quickly captured the Light Heavyweight belt and made a pretty penny in the process. Many of his most important wins came under the Bellator banner, where he really went on the best run of his career.
What’s next for “Darth” Bader? A UFC return could be possible. He’s been at Heavyweight for a while now, and that division could really use more fighters right now. Even at 41, the former Ultimate Fighter (TUF) winner has some name value and could help bulk up a fight card.
The other most likely option is RIZIN. Bader is a big enough star to command some attention in Japan, and the promotion recently announced a Heavyweight tournament that still has some vacancies.
Where do you hope to see Bader compete next?
