Douglas Lima Signs Multi-Year Deal with PFL-Bellator, Set for Fall Return

Douglas Lima

Douglas Lima is staying put. The former Bellator welterweight champion, Lima, has signed a new multi-year agreement with the PFL, which now owns Bellator following the acquisition last November. This announcement quells previous speculation about Lima's future in the sport.

Mike Kogan, Head of Fighter Operations, revealed in the announcement that Lima will make his return to the cage sometime this fall. This news comes as a surprise to many fans, given Lima's recent outspoken criticism of the PFL. Lima tweeted his frustration after his most recent opponent, Costello van Steenis, earned a second-round submission win at Bellator Paris earlier this month. He claimed that the

"PFL didn’t want to pay and honor my last fight on my contract."

Despite the initial tension, it appears that cooler heads have prevailed, and Lima will remain with the organization for the foreseeable future. Known as "The Phenom," Lima boasts an impressive career. He snapped a four-fight losing streak by defeating van Steenis at Bellator 296 after moving up to middleweight in May 2023.

Lima's career has seen its ups and downs. He is a two-time Bellator welterweight champion and attempted to become a two-division champion, only to fall short against then-middleweight champion Gegard Mousasi at Bellator 250 in October 2020. Subsequently, Lima lost the welterweight title to Yaroslav Amosov at Bellator 260 in June 2021. He also faced decision losses to Michael Page and Jason Jackson before moving up to the 185-pound division.

Despite these setbacks, Lima's overall record stands at an impressive 33-11. His resilience and dedication to the sport have made him a fan favorite and a formidable opponent in the cage. The new multi-year agreement with PFL-Bellator ensures that fans will continue to witness Lima's prowess and determination in upcoming fights.

As Lima prepares for his return this fall, the MMA world will be watching closely. His journey is a testament to perseverance and skill, and his future bouts promise to deliver the excitement and intensity that fans have come to expect from "The Phenom."