Bellator Signs UFC Vet Ben Saunders

Friday, February 4, 2011

By FCF Staff

Bellator FC has added another UFC vet to its roster as the promotion has announced that it has signed welterweight Ben “Killa B” Saunders. Although the American Top Team fighter will not compete in Bellator’s upcoming welterweight tourney, Saunders will make his promotional debut sometime during the organization’s fourth season.

“Ben Saunders is an exciting, powerful welterweight with explosive knockout power.  Ben’s dangerous and always shows up to fight.  I’m excited to see his first fight under the Bellator banner on MTV2 in April.” said Bellator Chairman and CEO Bjorn Rebney in the announcement.

The 27 year-old Saunders is coming off a first round, stoppage of Elijah Harshbarger, at a World Extreme Fighting event in November. The win returned Saunders to the winning column after he dropped back-to-back unanimous decision losses to Jon Fitch and Dennis Hallman. The former TUF competitor scored wins over Marcus Davis, Brandon Wolff, Ryan Thomas and Daniel Barrera during his UFC tenure.

“I'm here to test myself against anyone that they throw against me,” said Saunders. “I want to be the best. I want to be a champion, and that's my goal. I'm here to kick some ass, make some money, and take a belt along the way.”

Season 4 will feature welterweight, lightweight, light-heavyweight and featherweight tournaments, with bouts taking place for 12 consecutive Saturdays beginning March 5th.