As confirmed by officials, Lewis ‘The Foot’ Long has become the first Welshman to put pen to paper with Bellator.

In what appears to be an aggressive round of signings of both UK and Irish available talent, the news of Long’s signing comes on the heels of Irishmen Richard Kiely and Keifer Crosbie also agreeing to favorable terms with the promotion.

The 16-5 welterweight, who has wins over Bellator’s Ryan Scope and UFC vet Che Mills, will be keen to showcase his slick finishing skills in a talent rich division. Whilst many of the top echelon will be embroiled in a series of exciting clashes via the newly announced Bellator welterweight tournament, the division still has its fair share of killers for Long to tangle with.

Long is set to join the ranks of what is quickly looking like the new home for UK fighters looking to make an impression, fight regularly and be suitably compensated for their efforts.

It’s clear from their pursuit of unsigned but talented individuals, that Long will not be the last of UK-based signings we see emerging under the promotion’s banner in the coming days. Bellator have pretty much made it clear to European-based promotions, as far as acquiring talented, hungry fighters, the gloves are firmly off.