Bellator reportedly cut the former WSOF featherweight champion last month. On Wednesday morning, Denis Geyko of RT.com reported via Twitter that the Russian had signed a multi-fight deal with the promotion. Later that day, ACB confirmed his signing to MMA Fighting.
After claiming the WSOF title with a third-round submission of Lance Palmer, Karakhanyan lost the belt in his first defense against Rick Glenn when he failed to answer the bell for the third round due to a broken rib.
Following his title loss at WSOF 10, he was signed for a second stint with Bellator where he amassed a record 4-4 over eight appearances.