'Ultimate Fighter' original Chris Leben ends retirement, signs with Bellator

Veteran middleweight Chris Leben is coming out of retirement to fight for Bellator MMA.

Bellator president Scott Coker announced that Leben signed with the organization during an appearance on "Inside MMA":

Leben was a member of the first season of "The Ultimate Fighter," where he became notorious for his relentless fighting style and erratic behavior. His 22 appearances for the organization place him in a tie for 10th all time in UFC history, and first among middleweights.

"The Crippler" stepped away from MMA action in January 2014 on the heels of a four-fight losing streak. The 35-year-old still has name value, which seems to be a priority for Bellator as evidenced by its showcasing of veterans like Tito Ortiz, Ken Shamrock, and Royce Gracie.