Former UFC champion Benson Henderson signs with Bellator Benson Henderson announced on Monday via his personal website (and later on The MMA Hour) that he has signed with Bellator MMA. He wrote the following on his website. “I’m beyond excited for this next phase of my career, it’s a big move, like any move when switching employers or jobs after having worked somewhere for such a long time. I’d be remiss to not thank [UFC president] Dana White and [CEO] Lorenzo Fertitta for the opportunities they presented me, you guys have helped me change my life for the better and to be able to provide my family with the things I didn’t have while growing up,” Henderson wrote. “For that I’ll always have the utmost appreciation. Thanks for all the advise you guys gave too, both business wise and personal. To my fans, thanks for all the love and support, I’ll keep giving you my all, opening up my heart and soul inside that cage,” Henderson wrote. “I’m excited for this next chapter and building new relationships with guys I’ve heard nothing but great things about like Scott Coker, Rich Chou and Mike Kogan.” Henderson (23-5), is coming off a win over Jorge Masvidal at UFC Fight Night 79 and has won four of his last six fights. He is also the former UFC lightweight champion, a title which he held until an August 2013 submission loss to Anthony Pettis at UFC 164. Derek Campos now faces Melvin Guillard at Bellator 149 MMAFighting.com reported Monday that Derek Campos will replace an injured Mike Bronzoulis against Melvin Guillard at Bellator 149. Campos (15-6) is coming off back-to-back losses against Michael Chandler and Brandon Girtz, and will be looking for his first win since 2014. Guillard (32-15-2, 2 NC) also comes into this fight off two straight losses. He suffered a split decision loss to WSOF lightweight champion Justin Gaethje at WSOF 15, then lost another split decision to Girtz in his Bellator debut – at Bellator 149. The Bellator 149 card takes place February 19th at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. Here’s an updated look at the card. Royce Gracie vs. Ken Shamrock Kimbo Slice vs. Dhafir Harris (Dada 3000) Emanuel Newton vs. Linton Vassell Emmanuel Sanchez vs. Daniel Pineda Melvin Guillard vs. Derek Campos
