Lloyd Woodard (top) has signed on with Bellator. | Thomas Martinez/Sherdog.com
Sherdog.com confirmed Woodard's participation in the tournament Wednesday morning with a source close to the fighter. Woodard's involvement has not been officially announced by the promotion.
Officially, the tournament field thus far only features Brazilian Patricky "Pitbull" Freire. However, in October, Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney told Sherdog.com that two-time tournament finalist Toby Imada, Tunisian Olympic judoka Ferrid Kheder and former Missouri wrestler Michael Chandler were all likely participants.
It is also expected that the promotion will announce the participation of former WEC lightweight champion "Razor" Rob McCullough as well as teenage Polish prospect Marcin Held at a later date.
Woodard, 26, has built his name and record by dominating the competition in local shows in both the Pacific Northwest and the Midwest. The Missoula, Mont.-based fighter last competed in July, choking out journeyman Alonzo Martinez in the first round. “Cupcake” turned pro in October 2008 and owns six of his 10 career victories by submission.
Bellator's fourth season, which will air live on MTV2, is expected to begin on March 5 at a yet-to-be-announced venue.
view original article >>