Invitation.

Former England and Wasps flanker James Haskell shocked the world yesterday when it was announced that he has signed with MMA promotion Bellator.

Haskell, who retired from professional rugby at the end of last season, will compete in Bellator’s heavyweight division which features the likes of Ryan Bader, Cheik Kongo and Fedor Emelianenko.

Bellator is considered the second biggest MMA promotion in the world behind industry leaders the UFC. Bellator say Haskell will continue his training this year with his first fight “expected to take place during the first half of 2020.”

The reaction to Haskell’s shock move into MMA has been crazy, with most wishing Haskell the best of luck in his new venture – including former teammate Joe Marler who has also offered to help out.

Most will remember the hilarious spat the two got in a couple of seasons back when Marler squirted water in Haskell’s face resulting in a fiery altercation between the two. Seeing as they’ve gone at it before, Marler has offered to be Haskell’ sparring partner going forward.

Never change Joe. Never change.