Former WWE champion Jack Swagger signs heavyweight contract with MMA promotion Bellator

WWE have seen yet another of their former champions move into MMA after Bellator announced the signing of Jack Swagger.

Jake Hager — who was known as Swagger during his time in wrestling — was announced to have signed a lucrative, multi-fight deal with the company.

Getty - Contributor

Hager, 34, will compete at heavyweight and is expected to have his first taste of life in the octagon next year.

A statement said: “Bellator is pleased to announce that it has reached a multi-fight, multi-year deal with Jake Hager, who was formerly known as “Jack Swagger” during his nearly nine-year run with WWE.

“The deal will see Hager make his MMA debut inside a Bellator cage.

“Hager will compete at heavyweight and is expected to debut in 2018.”

Getty - Contributor

Hager was granted his release from WWE after nine years back in March with his career in a stalemate.

But the ‘Real American’ is looking forward to turning his hand to the brutal combat sport.

Hager said: “This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. It’s something that’s a part of me, so it makes sense.

“I’m very happy with the deal. I’ve felt a lot of love from Bellator.

Getty - Contributor

“I think there are certain types of guys who need to be punched in the face and taste blood.

“I’ve always been a fan of MMA, I’ve been wrestling since I was five years old.

“It’s awesome to be with Bellator. They’re really going to put 100 percent towards it!”