Cage Warriors inks Luke Newman and Leeroy Barnes to long-term deals

England’s Luke Newman and Leeroy Barnes have signed five-fight, 18-month exclusive deals with Cage Warriors, the organization recently announced.

Newman (5-1), a cast member on “The Ultimate Fighter: The Smashes” this past year, is a lightweight. Barnes (12-10), a BAMMA vet, is a middleweight.

“We’re always willing to provide a platform for talented fighters who want to compete regularly, so it’s great to have Luke and Leeroy on board,” Cage Warriors CEO Graham Boylan stated. “They both have the skills and the right attitude. They want to be active, so I know they’ll fit right in at Cage Warriors. I wish both guys luck, and I’m looking forward to seeing them in action.”

Newman, who was bounced from “TUF” following a loss to eventual show champion Robert Whittaker, won his first five pro fights (all via first-round stoppage). However, after the show and with no UFC contract, the 23-year-old took a fight earlier this year at BAMMA 12, where he suffered his first career loss, to undefeated Ryan Scope.

Barnes, meanwhile, has seen a career resurgence. Although he started his career with 6-8 mark, he’s 6-2 since them. The 28-year-old is currently riding a two-fight win streak with both victories coming via submission.

Barnes makes his promotional debut at Cage Warriors 57 on July 20 against an opponent TBD. MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) streams the event live.

For more on Cage Warriors 57, stay tuned to the MMA Rumors section of the site.

(Pictured: Leeroy Barnes)