Former Bellator champ Yaroslav Amosov announces end of contract, hints at UFC move

One of the top welterweights in the world is making an exit from Bellator and looking to start a new chapter in his career.

Yaroslav Amosov, who saw his remarkable undefeated run come to an end in November 2023 when he lost the Bellator welterweight title to Jason Jackson, revealed Friday his contract with the promotion has concluded.

As a result, Amosov, No. 13 in the latest USA TODAY Sports/MMA Junkie welterweight rankings, is seeking “a new beginning” elsewhere.

Check out Amosov’s full statement below (translated by Instagram):

Friends, my contract with @bellatormma has ended.

It was an unforgettable 6 years. A time that will be etched in my heart forever. Thank you all 🙏 soon I will announce my next actions! Unforgettable emotions during winning the title, even greater while defending it, the first defeat in 11 years, the war in the homeland… but I’m sure it’s only made me stronger 👊🏼 it’s all a small part of a big story. This is not the finish line, this is a new beginning.

I’m ready for a new phase. New horizons and peaks are ahead. My journey continues, I appreciate everyone who’s been there, those who supported and those who doubted.

The story doesn’t end, it just changes direction.

See you in the octagon 😎

The closing words of Amosov’s statement alludes that a move to the UFC could be on the horizon for the Ukrainian, who has fought just twice since June 2021 due to a hiatus to help fight for his country against Russian invasion.

With focus seemingly back on his fighting career, perhaps Amosov is on the verge of taking his talents to the biggest stage.

In the comments of his Instagram post, American Top Team head coach Mike Brown, Bellator champ Johnny Eblen, as well as the likes of Mateusz Gamrot, Grant Dawson and more posted excitement about Amosov potentially joining the UFC roster.