Belfort (photo via UFC)

By FCF Staff

Vitor Belfort’s retirement has been shortlived, as ONE Championship has announced it has signed the 41-year-old legend.

Belfort said he was walking away from fighting last May, following a knockout loss to Lyoto Machida at UFC 224. But, not long after, the former UFC champ talked about the possibility of fighting again.

In a press release from ONE announcing the signing, Belfort (26-14, 1 NC) was quoted saying:

“I have been in this sport since I was 19 years old, and have been fortunate enough to witness its growth and evolution firsthand. I am grateful to so many for this incredible opportunity. First of all, I would like to thank my wife Joana and my children, Davi, Victoria and Kyara for their infinite love and support. My management, Lloyd Pierson and Ballengee Group, guided me through this process with unmatched expertise.I would like to of course thank Chatri Sityodtong and ONE Championship, who gave me this great honor to fight in front of the Asian audience. ONE Championship is the Home of Martial Arts, and I plan to become a ONE World Champion in front of some of the best martial arts fans in the world.”

No details regarding when Belfort will make his promotional debut were provided.