Etherington (photo via Twitter @KarlEtherington)

By FCF Staff

British heavyweight prospect and decorated Judo competitor Karl Etherington has secured a multi-fight deal with Bellator, according to the the fighter’s representation, Old Skool Management.

Etherington will begin competing for Bellator in 2013, and after three bouts, could be enlisted to fight in the promotion’s next heavyweight tournament.

The second degree Judo black belt, who is ranked in eighth in British Judo Association rankings, has won all seven of his MMA pro bouts in the opening minute of the first round.

Most recently, while competing for Ultimate Cage Championships on September 12th, Etherington stopped Tomas Valcickas.

“Karl has devastating knock out power and will be flying the flag for the UK in Bellator,” Old Skool Management’s Neil Wain stated in a press release from the company. “He is looking to establish himself as one of the top heavyweights in the world and this deal will give him the platform to do just that.”

Bellator has not made any official announcement regarding the reported signing.