In what could be the PFL?s biggest signing to date, former Bellator MMA Welterweight Champion Rory MacDonald has signed a multi-fight deal with the promotion and will compete at welterweight in season three.
Ariel Helwani of ESPN first reported the signing.
MacDonald (21-6-1) fought a total of six times under the Bellator MMA banner, picking up a record of 3-2-1 in the promotion. MacDonald is a former Bellator MMA Welterweight Champion, defeating Douglas Lima by unanimous decision at Bellator 192 to win the gold. MacDonald also competed in the Bellator Welterweight World Grand Prix, making it to the finals before losing to the aforementioned Lima by unanimous decision at Bellator 232. MacDonald also had an extended run in the UFC, where he unsuccessfully challenged for the UFC Welterweight Title with a fifth round TKO loss to then champion Robbie Lawler at UFC 189.
There is no word yet on exactly when MacDonald will make his promotional debut, as PFL officials have yet to announce any dates for their third season.
Magomed Magomedkerimov won the welterweight championship in the PFL's first season, while David Michaud and Ray Cooper III battle in the welterweight finals of the PFL's second season.