Olympian Askren Signs with Bellator

Bellator Fighting Championships has signed Ben Askren to an exclusive long-term agreement, the promotion announced Wednesday.

Askren, 25, was a two-time national champion while wrestling at 174 pounds for the University of Missouri, where he garnered a following for his unorthodox style and wild hair. He also competed in the 2008 Beijing Games in freestyle wrestling before crossing over to MMA. Since debuting in February, Askren has built a 3-0 record.

“I am very happy to welcome Ben to Bellator,” said Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney in a news release. “Ben’s an exciting fighter with unlimited potential and an unparalleled list of Olympic and collegiate accomplishments. We believe he can become a true force in this sport. As an MMA fan, I can’t wait for Ben’s first fight in our tournament on Fox Sports Net, NBC and Telemundo this April.”

Bellator announced its new TV distribution deal following a successful first season that crowned champions Joe Soto (145), Eddie Alvarez (155), Lyman Good (170) and Hector Lombard (185).

“I like that my fights are going to broadcast nationally, I like the tournament-style format and I love the opportunity to be a part of something exciting and new,” Askren said. “I plan on winning Bellator. My goal, as it always has been, is to be the best in the world.”

Bellator’s second season begins April 8, 2010, and will run for 12 weeks. The third season is scheduled to begin Aug. 12, 2010. Bouts will be shown in primetime Thursdays on Fox Sports Net, and highlights will air late Saturday nights on NBC, in addition to a highlight show on Telemundo.