Bellator MMA Releases Lightweight Champion Will Brooks, Title Vacated

According to a report by MMAjunkie, Bellator MMA has released lightweight champion Will Brooks from the roster, and Brooks has been stripped of his title. On top of that, heavyweight champion Vitaly Minakov has also been stripped of his title due to inactivity. As of this time, Minakov is still remaining with Bellator.

Bellator President Scott Coker confirmed the promotion’s moves to let go of Brooks. Brooks has been very outspoken regarding his treatment by Bellator in the past and being unhappy with the company. Brooks’ contract was terminated, and all negotiation rights have been waived. As a result, he can now pursue free agency.

Speaking on the subject, Coker stated: ““It was very simple. Will Brooks’ contract is ending, and we made a decision not to renew it. We’re going to give him a full release, so we’re not going to be in the Will Brooks business any longer.”

Brooks last fought for Bellator at Bellator 145 last November, and he defeated Marcin Held by unanimous decision.

Both the lightweight and heavyweight titles in Bellator MMA are currently vacant. Bellator MMA has just confirmed in an official press release that former champion Michael Chandler will face Patricky “Pitbull” Freire for the vacant lightweight title at Bellator: Dynamite 2 on June 24. The event will be held at the Scottrade Center in St. Louis, Missouri.