Former UFC title challenger gets first Bellator assignment

Bellator has long been in the shadows of the UFC but has shown in more recent times that they're capable of snapping up talent ahead of the MMA behemoth. The promotion has now announced its newest signing's first blockbuster matchup.

Big names like Michael 'Venom' Page, AJ McKee, and more have opted to remain with Bellator despite once being free agents. While the powerhouse likely isn't worried, if their competitors build momentum and beat them to signings, it could weaken their position in the sport.

As announced on social media on Wednesday, Bellator is welcoming former UFC flyweight title challenger Ray Borg into their cage. Moreover, he'll be pitted against fan-favorite Kyoji Horiguchi.

After a brilliant run since his departure from the octagon, Ray Borg deservedly finds himself in a great position with Bellator.

With three wins over the past three years, 'The Tazmexican Devil' beat the likes of Jesse Arnett. He also beat upcoming TUF 31 contestant Cody Gibson and the entertaining Ricky Bandejas, with two of those wins coming in Eagle FC.

Borg will be searching for a standout display on his debut with the company. Meanwhile, he will be coming up against former Bellator and Rizin bantamweight champion and fellow one-time UFC title challenger Horiguchi.

The Japanese native is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters to ever compete at 125 and 135. Carrying a two-fight win streak and bringing in a record of 31-5, the well-rounded veteran will be no easy feat for the American.

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How good was Ray Borg during his time in the UFC?

Despite finding a home in the bantamweight division, Ray Borg spent the majority of his time in the UFC competing at flyweight. However, he has a history of missing weight in the promotion, failing to do so an incredible four times during his tenure.

Although he is a 12-fight veteran of the company, his most memorable moment came in his single title bout when he was on the receiving end of the 2017 submission of the year.

In the co-main event of a pay-per-view six years ago, Demetrious Johnson collected his final win inside the octagon in style after catching Borg with a flying armbar submission, making his 11th successful defense of his title.