Professional Fighters League completes acquisition of Bellator
The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has successfully acquired its rival organisation, Bellator, in a huge development for the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). The conclusion of this acquisition brings forth a series of strategic plans and collaborative ventures set to reshape the MMA industry.
All Bellator fighters are now eligible to participate in PFL fight franchises, expanding the talent pool within the combined organisation. The Bellator brand will persist as a unique ‘one-off’ event product under the PFL umbrella, maintaining its distinctive identity.
🚨 BREAKING 🚨
We are joining the PFL family!Bellator 🤝 PFLhttps://t.co/Z21Ksw7qS3
— Bellator MMA (@BellatorMMA) November 20, 2023
A groundbreaking event titled ‘PFL Champions vs Bellator Champions’ is scheduled for the upcoming year. This event will showcase champions from both promotions across all seven weight classes, creating an unprecedented spectacle for MMA enthusiasts.
Details concerning Bellator events, distribution, partnerships and management following the acquisition will be unveiled at a later date, promising further excitement and developments.
The leadership team of PFL, headed by Chairman and Founder Donn Davis and Chief Executive Peter Murray, will continue to guide and operate the combined company.
Financial advisory services for the acquisition were provided by Citi and LionTree, with legal counsel handled by Sidley Austin LLP.
While the exact financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, reports from Sportico suggest that PFL has acquired Bellator from Paramount for an amount less than US$100 million. This acquisition positions the combined fighter roster of PFL and Bellator on equal footing with the industry-leading Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
PFL, valued at approximately US$500 million last year, secured a minority stake investment from Saudi Arabia’s SRJ Sports Investments in August, infusing over US$100 million into the organisation. This substantial financial support is earmarked for global expansion initiatives and signing top-tier fighters.
“PFL is now a global powerhouse in MMA,” affirmed Donn Davis, emphasising the organisation’s commitment to innovating the sport and achieving industry co-leadership.
Peter Murray echoed this sentiment, stating, “The combined PFL and Bellator fighter rosters are second to none in MMA.”
“We can’t wait to bring MMA fans what they have been asking for – best vs best with the PFL Champions vs Bellator Champions Mega-Event,” Murray continued.
Looking ahead, PFL has ambitious plans for the Bellator brand. In 2024, the organisation will introduce the Bellator International Champions Series, featuring eight annual fight events in major cities worldwide. This series will showcase two co-main fights competing for championship belts, promising an immersive experience for MMA enthusiasts globally.
