Until October 2011, he fought for many promotions throughout the United States, most notably Bellator and Shark Fights.
He defeated Rinaldi in a five-round bout via unanimous decision to become the promotion's first-ever featherweight champion.
[8] Downing faced Lance Palmer on June 21, 2013, at RFA 8: Pettis vs. Pegg in his first title defense.
[9] After some years away from the promotion, Downing was called to replace an injured Rob Emerson against Patricio Freire on July 31, 2013, at Bellator 97.
[11] Downing faced The Ultimate Fighter 5 competitor Rob Emerson on October 18, 2013, at Bellator 104.