English rugby star James Haskell signs for Bellator

Decorated English rugby international James Haskell is set to compete in the Bellator cage after agreeing terms with the American promotion.

Earlier this week, Bellator teased that they would unveil an “international signing” via press release. On Thursday morning, the promotion revealed that it was the former Wasps, Northampton Saints and England flanker that had joined the ranks.

A heavyweight, Bellator’s press release describes Haskell as being 6-foot-4 and 260 pounds. He has previously worked as an MMA pundit for BT Sports and has trained at London Shootfighters. Haskell has never competed in MMA and his set to make his debut with Bellator.

The promotion are set to hold a press conference to introduce Haskell to international audiences in London next Wednesday.

Haskell made 77 appearances for England over a 12-year span from 2007-2019. In 2017, he was drafted into the Lions squad, but failed to make an appearance during the panel’s tour. In May 2019, Haskell announced his retirement from professional rugby in an Instagram post.