Ben Askren Released From Bellator Contract, Becomes Unrestricted Free Agent

Longtime Bellator Welterweight Champion Ben Askren has been the subject of much debate recently, most of which stemming from ‘Funky’ calling out UFC boss Georges St-Pierre. Askren has been very vocal about his desire to face the Canadian Welterweight kingpin, although UFC brass have held off on any potential talk of signing him.

Askren is undefeated as a pro, his record stands at 12-0; nine of those wins came under the Bellator banner. It would seem that Askren would reign forever as Welterweight boss of the world’s number two MMA promotion, until news broke today that Askren is no longer with the promotion. Check out what Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney had to say on the matter, from last night’s UFC Tonight:

“I’ve said it many times, Ben’s a completely one-dimensional fighter who is utterly dominant in that dimension,” Rebney stated. “I had a number of discussions with Ben, and it became clear it was time for both parties to move in different directions. We’ve relinquished any right to match here, and Ben can sign with whoever he chooses to sign with. Ben’s been at Bellator since the start of his career. I respect him and what he’s accomplished and wish him the best wherever he goes.”

Much of Askren’s criticism is aimed at his one dimensional, and ‘boring’ style. Although Rebney is correct in his assessment that his boring style is a very dominant one, it may be the very deciding factor in whether ‘Funky’ can find a new home in the UFC.

There are plenty of other promotions that would surely give Askren a contract; One FC and WSOF spring to mind, but is that going to be a step in the wrong direction for an undefeated ex-Bellator champ? It certainly doesn’t seem like anyone else, bar GSP himself, is interested in seeing Askren sign for the UFC.

Whether you like it or not, fan appeal is a huge factor for modern day fighters; If you can’t sell the tickets, you won’t be headlining big shows. It’s ironic that the very thing that makes Askren unbeatable, also makes him unsignable.

The truth is that Bellator may have been the peak for Askren, a shame considering his ability. That being said, stranger things have happened and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him eventually signed if he can score some exciting wins in lesser organizations.