Tuesday ended up being a great day for now-former Bellator lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez.

“The Silent Assassin” was granted his conditional release by Bellator in the early afternoon and was booked to face Donald Cerrone at UFC 178 next months before nightfall.

ESPN was the first media outlet to report on Alvarez’s release, while the UFC announced the subsequent signing and fight booking.

Alvarez had a drawn out contract dispute, that included appearances in court, with Bellator for the better part of last year.

After 13 months on the shelf, he returned to action against then-titleholder Michael Chandler – winning a close split decision in November.

While former Bellator CEO/President Bjorn Rebney was insistent on Alvarez staying with the company, Scott Coker – the new head of the promotion – obviously didn’t feel the same way.

"We granted Eddie his unconditional release this morning," Coker told ESPN. "Eddie is free to explore the free-agent market. We wish him the best in the future.”

Prior to signing with the UFC, Alvarez was optimistic about his latest career move.

"This was a long process but it's a decision that everyone seems happy with," Alvarez said. "I think it's important to say that I am genuinely thankful for the time at Bellator.”

“I know that sounds a little crazy given everything I went through, but I've fought there since 2009 and have been involved in some really amazing fights.”

Alvarez had been rumored to fight Cerrone at UFC 178, a September 27 pay-per-view event, but was replaced by surging contender Bobby Green when it appeared that Alvarez wouldn’t be able to get out of his contract.

However, in light of the latest circumstances, Alvarez vs. Cerrone has been made official and Green is expected to fight a new opponent on the same card.