Welterweight prospect Austin Vanderford (6-0) announced he had signed a 4-fight deal with Bellator, completing a great year for the 28-year-old American who married UFC star Paige VanZant earlier in 2018.
Vanderford has become known more for his ties to VanZant, with many fans labelling him Mr VanZant. This has meant his fighting ability has gone unnoticed. Holding an undefeated record, with two knockouts, two submissions and two decision victories on his resume, he is determined to make his mark on Bellator’s stacked 170lb division.
Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Vanderford said. “I just want to get out and compete. I’m excited to compete against the best in the world and that’s all that I’ve really wanted, the opportunity to be on the stage. I’m sure there’s going to be a bunch of guys calling me out and I’m ready for all of it.”
In July Vanderford was passed on by the UFC after emerging victorious on Dana White Tuesday Night Contender Series in a back and forth fight with Team Alpha Male prospect Angelo Trevino, who dropped Vanderford before being submitted a round later by the undefeated welterweight.
Vanderford last competed in October earning a first round KO victory that compelled Bellator to make the move to acquire him, presenting a stage he is relishing to perform upon. “I’m a competitor that wants to be the best in the world. I’m on that platform now and I’m excited.”
Vanderford’s debut with the promotion has not been set, but he is expected to compete in the first quarter of 2019 and will surely have a whole host of Welterweight prospects calling his name, as they look to snatch Mr VanZants undefeated record.
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