Irish MMA fighter James Gallagher is a free agent after securing his release from the Professional Fighters League. The Strabane 28-year-old confirmed his exit on social media.

The PFL secured the rights to Bellator last year, the organisation Gallagher fought 12 times under after signing a deal as a teenager. During his time with Bellator he headlined and co-headlined major events at Dublin's 3Arena.

Now he is on the move after securing his release.

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He said on Instagram: “I want to thank [PFL] for granting me my release out of my contract. I signed up to Bellator as a 19-year-old kid with a 3-0 record right into the main card in the [The O2, London].

"[Bellator] was something special. I’m so grateful for all the years of hard work that I put in that I could be the first Irish guy at the fore front for them in Ireland to build up [Bellator Europe].

“I put my heart in soul into each and every event. I’m sad that this area of my life is over, but excited for my future as a 28-year-old young man who had to learn on the job as I built my way up to CO main eventing Bellator 180 in a sold out [Madison Square Garden] in NYC to being main eventing on multiple occasions at home, the place where every Irish fighter dreams of selling out [the 3Arena].

“It was really just a cocky kid that worked hard and achieved his dreams. I’m so thankful to everyone at [Bellator] they were a pleasure to work with and grow with over the years. I am only 28 years old young and have got veteran experience now from handling crowds, media and everything that comes with it.

“As the area of my life is over a new one begins. Thank you to absolutely everyone who supported my career with [Bellator] who spent their hard earned money to come and see me fight. The next rise is going to blow it out of the water and we will make one thing clear, there’s no f**king show like a JIMMY SHOW.

“This is not the end, it’s the beginning of something bigger. Thank you [Bellator].”

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