Brennan Ward is no longer a Bellator-branded fighter. For the first time in over a decade, Ward (17-7) is actively competing, but not under the Bellator banner. A staple of the promotion, Ward debuted at Bellator 81 in 2012. He competed 19 times for the promotion over the 12 years, though five he was inactive as he temporarily retired to battle drug addiction. Coming off a loss to Logan Storley in August, Ward was eager to fight again as soon as injuries healed. When it came time to step back in the cage, however, things were a bit murky