Welterweight prospect and 2004 Judo Olympian Rick Hawn (8-0) is now a part of a Bellator Fighting Championships 170-pound class that includes the likes of Dan Hornbuckle (21-3), former Olympic wrestler Ben Askren (6-0) and UFC veteran Ryan Thomas (11-5).

Bellator announced the signing on Sept. 8 via press release.

Hawn, who trains with Team Sityodtong, most recently defeated UFC veteran Shonie Carter (49-25-7) by second round TKO. He also holds victories over Dennis Olson (11-5) and Tom Gallichio (14-5).

Although Hawn has a world class Judo background, including a 9th place finish at the 2004 Olympic Games, six of his eight wins have come by KO or TKO.

“Rick’s Judo pedigree can’t be matched, but it’s his striking that puts him a cut above,” Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney said in the press release. “Rick’s potential at 170 pounds is really unlimited.”

Leave a Reply