Heralded prospect Jimi Manuwa (10-0) took yet another step forward on Monday, as the British light heavyweight inked an exclusive four-fight contract with the British Association of Mixed Martial Arts (BAMMA). News of the deal came directly on the heels of Manuwa's brutal two-minute finish of Nick Chapman at UCMMA 24 in London, England over the weekend. MMA Weekly first reported the news.
Ranking in as Bloody Elbow's number-three light heavyweight prospect in the world, Manuwa has taken an unusual -- if not noble -- path through his career, twice eschewing a contract offer from the UFC in order to better himself as a fighter. Though by all accounts, it's working. The 28-year-old has maintained an undefeated record while collecting a extensive highlight reel portfolio of ten finishes in ten fights, eight of which came in the first round.
"Jimi is a great fighter with a huge career ahead of him. We're very happy that he's chosen BAMMA as his new home," Head of Development Liam Fisher said to MMA Weekly. "We're in the process of building each weight division, including the 205s. With this in mind, it makes perfect sense to sign the UK's best light heavyweight fighter."
Barring injury, Manuwa is expected to make his promotional debut at BAMMA 8, scheduled for December 10th in Nottingham, England.