Have a look at the net worth and owner details of the PFL
In a seismic shift within the world of MMA, Professional Fighters League (PFL), backed by a significant investment from Saudi Arabiaโs Public Investment Fund, acquires Bellator MMA from Paramount Global.ย
PFL ownership structure, owner details, net worth and full form as it acquired Bellator MMA
While the terms of the deal remain undisclosed, reports earlier pegged the value of PFL at approximately $500 million in 2023 with it paying less than $100 to acquire Bellator. Paramount will retain a minority stake in the combined company, marking a strategic move as the media giant exits the combat sports business.
PFL Founder Donn Davis announced the acquisition, emphasizing that the fighter roster of PFL is now on par with that of the dominant UFC. The move follows Paramount’s recent decision to shut down Showtime Sports, consolidating all sports programming within CBS Sports.
This acquisition is part of PFL’s broader expansion strategy, fueled by a significant investment from Saudi Arabiaโs Public Investment Fund earlier this year.ย
The fund, SRJ Sports Investments, injected over $100 million into PFL, facilitating the organization’s plans to host MMA events in Saudi Arabia.ย
This aligns with Saudi Arabiaโs growing interest in combat sports, exemplified by Endeavor’s announcement of a new UFC event in the kingdom.
PFL CEO Peter Murray asserts that the acquisition of Bellator has transformed PFL into a global MMA powerhouse, accelerating their mission to lead and innovate in the industry.
The combined rosters of PFL and Bellator now boast 30% of fighters ranked in the top 25 across weight classes, positioning them as a formidable force in the MMA landscape.
The Bellator brand will not be absorbed but will continue as a separate entity under the PFL umbrella. The announcement outlined plans for a reimagined Bellator product in 2024, introducing the “Bellator International Champions Series.”ย
This series will feature eight events each year, held in major cities globally, with two co-main fights competing for championship belts.
PFL’s unique MMA competition format, including a regular season, postseason, and championship event, will be complemented by Bellatorโs one-off cards.ย
Donn Davis holds the position of co-founder and chairman of the PFL and other notable investors in the promotion include, Ted Leonsis and Mark Leschly. Davis is also the co-founder of Revolution, LLC, a venture capital firm, along with Steve Case and the PFL is collectively owned under the โMMAX Investment Partnersโ umbrella.
Donn Davis talks the Bellator International Series.
Says they will announce Bellator's new TV deal in January.#TheMMAHour pic.twitter.com/YcSe0YKnwa— Jed I. Goodman ยฉ (@jedigoodman) November 20, 2023
Additionally, a mega-event titled “PFL Champions vs. Bellator Champions” is on the horizon for 2024, showcasing champions from both promotions in head-to-head matchups across all seven weight classes.
Financial advisors Citi and LionTree played a crucial role in facilitating the deal, emphasizing the strategic importance of financial considerations in the MMA industry. Legal counsel was provided by Sidley Austin LLP.
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