Lovato Jr.

By FCF Staff

Following the news last month that Rafael Lovato Jr. has a brain condition, the undefeated fighter has officially, relinquished Bellator’s middleweight title.

In January, Lovato Jr. publicly disclosed that he’s been diagnosed with cavernoma, and as a result, his future in fighting is uncertain. On Monday, Bellator announced that Lovato Jr. is dropping the middleweight title (quotes via press release).

“My journey with my team and family to become the Bellator middleweight world champion was incredible and something I will cherish forever,” said Lovato Jr. “I dreamed of having a long reign as champion, but sometimes life has another plan. Bellator has been very supportive during this difficult process, a situation that has never really happened before in our sport. I know the division must move on while I am on the sidelines and I wish everyone great fights on their way to that belt. I will be working to come back if it is possible – and if not, life will continue to be amazing for me and I look forward to working with Bellator in another fashion.”

“This has been an incredibly challenging time for Lovato Jr., his team and his family at home,” said Bellator President Scott Coker. “He is a true warrior of the sport and I cannot say enough about him for making such a difficult decision. His health is the priority for us and we will continue to work with him on addressing the next steps in his career.”

Lovato Jr. currently holds a record of 10-0 and he has gone 6-0 to date with Bellator.