Jim Wallhead Opts Against Resigning with Bamma, Now a Free Agent

Jim Wallhead Opts Against Resigning with Bamma, Now a Free Agent
by Chris Houten - @mrhouts

 

Fans hoping to see a rematch between Eddie Ellis and Jim Wallhead for the Bamma welterweight title will be left disappointed today with the announcement the Wallhead has opted against renewing the Bamma contract.

Fighting out of Leicester, Team Rough House member Wallhead (24-8) began his professional career in 2005, earned notable wins against former John Philips, Jason Tan, Che Mills, and current UFC fighter Igor Araujo before joining Bamma where he defeated former UFC title challenger Frank Trigg at Bamma 7 in his debut, which he followed up with a knockout demolition of Jackson MMA fighter Joey Villasenor at BAMMA 8.

Wallhead returned on an exclusive UK multi-fight deal at Bamma 12 to defeat former UFC contender Matt Veach, to set up a Welterweight title bout with Eddy Ellis at Bamma 13 in a fight which Wallhead broke Ellis' jaw, only to lose by controversial judges decision with fans and pundits alike feeling Wallhead did enough to earn the decision.

Following his loss to Ellis, Wallhead took on Frenchman Florent Betorangal at Bamma 14 winning by spectacular knockout from a slam to set up the potential rematch with Ellis, however this fight was Wallheads last fight on his contract and he has since decided to part ways with the promotion.

BAMMA's manager, Ashley Bothwell, said:

"We are sorry to see Jim go, as he was well loved at BAMMA as a true BAMMA icon. We wish him all the best in his future."

Bamma officials did not elaborate further on why the promotion and Wallhead were unable to come to terms on a new deal of if the fighter was joining another organisation, however an official press release did seem to suggest with Wallhead no longer with the promotion, Paul Daley who was previous out of title contention due to his close relationship with Wallhead, could be next to fight for the welterweight title.   

Free agent Wallhead who has previous fought for Bellator, will now be hot property on the international market. He leaves Bamma with a 4-1 record.