The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is kicking off its 2025 season with a revamped knockout tournament format.
PFL Founder and Chairman Donn Davis, in an exclusive interview with Insider Sport’s Senior Journalist, Callum Williams, emphasised that this single-elimination structure was inspired by fan feedback, aiming to simplify the season and heighten excitement by wrapping up with tournament finals in August.
The first four events, held at Universal Studios in Orlando, are a strategic move to streamline production and fighter logistics as the PFL doubles its event count to 30 this year, spanning four regions: Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Oceania.
Central to the league’s global expansion is the backing from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund via SURJ Sports Investment, as well as interest from Abu Dhabi. Davis spoke at length about the shifting landscape of sports investment, noting MMA’s explosive growth and its appeal to global investors looking beyond traditional “Big Five” sports.
He pointed to the cultural significance of crossover fights like Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson, while warning against oversaturation of such events. In the evolving media rights market, Davis believes younger audiences and international appeal make MMA a prime candidate for long-term growth and value, especially as broadcasters seek global IP-driven content in an increasingly digital age.
