Bellator celebrates signing Conen (left) and Budd (right). Photo: Reproduction/Bellator
This Thursday (14), Bellator confirmed the return of women's fights in the organization after almost two years, officially creating the featherweight division (up to 66 kg). Additionally, the signings of Marloes Coenen and julia budd, who become the first athletes confirmed in Bellator.
The two athletes played for Strikeforce, an event organized by Scott Coker, now executive director of Bellator. Coenen, 33 years old, has been an MMA professional since 2000, with a record of 21 wins and six losses. In the last three setbacks, he lost to well-known athletes: two to Chris Cyborg, in 2010 and 2013, and one for Miesha Tate, in 2011. Budd, two years younger, has a record of six wins and two losses, these against UFC fighters Ronda Rousey e Amanda nunes. Coenen and Budd are expected to face each other later this year, in a fight whose date has yet to be made official.
The female featherweight category is not part of the current UFC list, which, among women, includes bantamweight (up to 61 kg) and strawweight (up to 52 kg) athletes. Recently, Bellator has been involved in rumors that indicated an imminent agreement with Gina Carano, although nothing has yet been made official.
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