Former UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson signs with Bellator

Former UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson announced on his official website Monday that he's signed with Bellator MMA.

"I'm beyond excited for this next phase of my career, it's a big move, like any move when switching employers or jobs after having worked somewhere for such a long time," Henderson said.

Henderson's final UFC fight came back at UFC Fight Night 79 in November, when he notched a win over Jorge Masvidal to move his career record to 23-5.

Henderson made it clear that he intended to test the free-agent market thereafter, but indicated in November that he'd eventually retire a member of the UFC.

"I'd be remiss to not thank Dana White and Lorenzo Fertita for the opportunities they presented me, you guys have helped me change my life for the better and to be able to provide my family with the things I didn't have while growing up," Henderson said. "For that I'll always have the utmost appreciation. Thanks for all the advice you guys gave too, both business wise and personal."