A victorious Alvarez (photo courtesy Bellator)

By FCF Staff

Eddie Alvarez’s lengthy, and at times rocky, run with Bellator has finally come to an end, as the promotion has announced it has granted the lightweight champ his unconditional release.

Bellator released a statement on Tuesday announcing the news, which included the following comments from its president Scott Coker, and Alvarez.

“We’ve granted Eddie his unconditional release. Eddie is free to explore the free agent market, we hold no matching rights, and we wish him the best in the future,” Coker was quoted saying. “We sat down with Eddie and his team a few times, and it became pretty clear early on that he just wasn’t interested in fighting for Bellator in the future. We want guys in this organization that want to be here, and after the history Eddie and the former regime had here at Bellator, we decided to move on. We wish Eddie the absolute best of luck with whatever is next for him. It’s a new chapter for everyone involved.”

“This was a long process but it’s a decision that everyone seems happy with. I think it’s important to say that I am genuinely thankful for my time at Bellator,” said Alvarez. “I know that sounds a little crazy given everything I went through, but I’ve fought there since 2009, and have been involved in some really amazing fights. The staff there always treated me great, and I’m going to miss seeing a lot of those familiar faces around for sure. Myself and my team had some really good discussions with Scott, but in my heart I knew I was ready to move on and start the next chapter in my career.”

The news comes not long after reports last month that the UFC had contacted Bellator about acquiring Alvarez. The UFC also attempted to sign Alvarez when he entered free agency in 2012, however, Bellator matched the offer and a legal battle ensued.

The renowned fighter reached a new agreement with Bellator last year, however, and in November he defeated Michael Chandler to become lightweight champ again. Since their rubber match in May fell through, due to Alvarez (25-3) being injured, there had been considerable speculation as to how, and whether, the fighter would complete his contract.

The UFC has not made any official announcement yet regarding the contractual status of Alvarez.