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Bellator releases Jessica Eye, Felice Herrig signs with Invicta FC

Bellator's female division just lost some star power as both Jessica Eye and Felice Herrig look to find new homes.

By David St. Martin
Felice Herrig
Felice Herrig
Image via officialxfc.com

Women's MMA veterans Jessica Eye and Felice Herrig are no longer part of Bellator's shrinking female divisions. Herrig, who last competed at Bellator 94 in March in a 115lb strawweight bout, announced today her signing with Women's MMA promotion Invicta FC.

"I couldn't be happier than I am now, after signing with Invicta FC," said Herrig. "I have seen them do so much for women and really give them a chance to shine. I don't think anyone realized how big Invicta FC would become, and I am truly proud to say I have found a home with them.

"We are excited about bringing Felice, one of the brightest, young talents in the women's field of MMA, under the Invicta FC umbrella," said Invicta FC President Shannon Knapp. "Felice has overcome a lot of stiff competition, thus far, during her career, and we are looking forward to seeing her perform against some of the top women in the world who fight for Invicta FC."

Eye, a top ranked flyweight, announced her Bellator release via Twitter Tuesday afternoon:

Our own Stephanie 'Crooklyn' Daniels spoke with Eye shortly after announcing her release.

"I am a free agent and I am just taking in the offers, just seeing where they're gonna go. Now I know what an NFL football player feels like. This is awesome though. I remember when I first signed, when I first got into MMA back in 2007, there wasn't even an organization out there that even had more than one or two females. To have an option is amazing, and I really do believe that my home, wherever I sign next, that's where you'll find me a champion."

Although Eye hasn't hinted as to where she may be competing next, Invicta FC seems the likely landing spot. With the UFC's investment in the Women's bantamweight (135lbs) division and Bellator seemingly stepping back from Women's MMA in general, Invicta has become a haven for some of the sport's top fighters. Also, keep in mind Eye last fought in a 132lbs catchweight bout so competing as a bantamweight for another organization is certainly possible.

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