Bellator MMA has added another name to their growing women’s featherweight division.
Combat Press has learned that Australia’s Arlene Blencowe is the latest fighter to sign with the promotion.
Blencowe has been competing in both mixed martial arts and boxing and has previously held two boxing world titles. She is scheduled to face Erin McGowan on Nov. 21 for the WIBA women’s welterweight title. The 31-year-old has compiled a 5-4 record in MMA, winning four of her last five. The lone loss over that stretch came against Invicta FC’s Faith Van Duin last August via split decision. Blencowe exacted revenge on Van Duin with an impressive third-round knockout at Storm Damage 5 in August.
In the wake of the news, Blencowe told Combat Press, “I’m living proof that hard work, dedication and persistence pay off. Eighteen months ago I had my first MMA fight, two years ago I didn’t know what an armbar was or had any idea about wrestling, BJJ or grappling.
“Now I’m signed to one of the world’s most renowned promotions and fighting world-class opponents. To be fighting at an international level in two disciplines is a dream come true, holding titles in both is the ultimate dream and what I am working towards.”
Blencowe’s Bellator debut is expected to take place early next year. She joins notables Marloes Coenen, Annalisa Bucci and Talita Nogueira in the promotion’s 145-pound weight class.