In a groundbreaking move that sent shockwaves through the world of combat sports, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) finalized its acquisition of Bellator MMA. While the specific terms of the deal remain undisclosed, PFL Chairman Donn Davis announced the historic agreement on Monday.
Under the agreement, Paramount, Bellator's former parent company, will retain a minority ownership stake. Despite the ownership change, the Bellator brand is set to continue as a distinct entity, undergoing a "reimagined" transformation slated for 2024.
One of the most significant immediate changes is that all athletes currently signed with Bellator will be eligible to compete on PFL platforms. This move opens the door for cross-promotional matchups and an infusion of top-tier talent into PFL's already robust roster.
PFL is already planning a "mega event" for 2024, featuring champion vs. champion clashes between the best fighters from both promotions. PFL Chairman Donn Davis highlighted the strategic significance of the move, emphasizing that the combined roster is now on par with the UFC in terms of Top 25-ranked talent.
Bellator President Scott Coker, who has been with the organization since 2014, has not issued an immediate comment on the acquisition. However, PFL has extended an offer for Coker and his team at Bellator to stay involved post-acquisition.
Bellator, established in 2008 and most recently airing on Showtime Sports, held its final event under its current structure in Chicago last weekend. Paramount's decision to exit boxing and MMA at the end of 2023 set the stage for this transformative acquisition.
PFL, known for its commitment to major acquisitions, previously announced partnerships with Jake Paul and former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in recent years. The addition of Bellator now expands PFL's portfolio to include five fight "franchises," including the foundational PFL League Season, PFL pay-per-view Super Fight League, PFL Challenger Series, PFL International Leagues, and Bellator.
The move is expected to bring about 30 events per year, showcasing a diverse range of talent through various platforms. Notably, the champion vs. champion matchups promise an immediate infusion of top-tier talent into PFL's existing roster.
The combined roster will feature notable champions such as lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov, featherweight champion Patricio Freire, light heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov, and women's featherweight champion Cris Cyborg from Bellator.
While additional details on events, dates, and broadcast deals are anticipated in the coming months, this acquisition has already set the stage for a new era in MMA. The announcement coincides with the upcoming PFL 2023 Championship Finals event scheduled for Friday in Washington, D.C. MMA fans can expect a significant shift in the landscape of the sport following this game-changing acquisition.