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“I Wouldn’t Count That Out…” – Bellator Head Scott Coker Hints at Former Champion Returning to the UFC

Published 03/11/2023, 12:45 PM EST

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Former UFC featherweight champion and current Bellator champ Cris Cyborg is back in the mix again. CEO of Bellator MMA Scott Coker, during the post-fight press conference held after Bellator 292, confirmed that the Brazilian was almost nearing the end of her contract with the promotion. With this disclosure, rumors have started to swirl around the 37-year-old’s future and interestingly also opens up the possibility of her returning to the UFC. Although at this point it is mere speculation; Coker‘s revelation does make things quite intriguing for the world of women’s MMA.

The 60-year-old veteran promoter also claimed that they were yet to make a decision with regard to Cyborg. While doing so, he heaped praise on the WMMA veteran, revealing that he would very soon hold discussions with her.

Scott Coker confirms Cris Cyborg’s contract expires in August

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As Coker made his appearance in front of the media, questions about Cyborg‘s relationship with the promotion were brought up. While claiming that the Brazilian was one of the biggest stars to have graced the sport, he confirmed the possibility of her leaving the promotion. But of course, Coker also added that it all depended on the discussions that he would have with the fighter.

 “So she’s a lot of historical things and had a great success a great career. So I wouldn’t count that out and then we’ll make decisions based on what happens, you know.” explained the 60-year-old.

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He further added that she only had a few more months of contractual obligations left with Bellator. He states, “We still have contractual rights to her until August. So let’s see how it plays out.”

Now, for fans of Cyborg, this could be a major source of excitement as it opens up the rare possibility of her making a move to the UFC. Maybe a future fight with Amanda Nunes could be a rare likelihood in this case.

But considering her relationship with the UFC, it’s common knowledge that it’s far easier said than done.

Coker on Bellator’s relationship with Cris Cyborg

Despite her stint at the promotion almost nearing its end, the long-time promoter expressed his admiration for the Bellator champ. He stated that they’ve had a stable professional relationship for years; and claimed that the fighter loved being a part of Bellator.

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“But I still think we’re in a very good position with her. I think she loves being here. I think we have a very good working relationship.” To back his point, he mentioned the longstanding relationship that Cyborg has had with Bellator while expressing that she could continue being with them. “We’ve been, you know, working together since 2009 or 2008, maybe. And you know I don’t. I wouldn’t count it out.”

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Would you like to see Cris Cyborg back in the UFC again? Does a match-up with Amanda Nunes sound exciting? Let us know in the comment section below.

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Written by:

Pragjyoti Singh

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Pragjyoti is a UFC writer at EssentiallySports. He is extremely passionate about MMA and has a good understanding of the sport and its technicalities. Having trained in the sport along with a passion for journalism, it has helped him develop a keen interest in the UFC and anything related to the promotion.
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Edited by:

Vineet Nandwana