The Professional Fighters League (PFL), in which Quebecer Olivier Aubin-Mercier works, has taken over the mixed martial arts organization Bellator.
Donn Davis, the founder of the PFL, made the announcement on his X account on Monday. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
• Also read: Mixed martial arts: Olivier Aubin-Mercier’s opponent ‘can’t wait to punch a Canadian in the face’
• Also read: PFL: A second title and then it goes to Olivier Aubin-Mercier?
According to ESPN, Bellator will continue operations in 2024 as a standalone brand called the “Bellator International Champions Series.” All fighters of this organization may be “available” to participate in PFL activities.
Davis told the British newspaper Financial Times that an event between PFL and Bellator champions is planned for next year.
“It completely changes the landscape of mixed martial arts,” Davis said. We essentially take the two number 2 companies to create a co-leader. The combined PFL and Bellator fighter roster now includes 30% of fighters ranked in the top 25 in the world according to Fight Matrix, which is as many as the UFC.”
New global MMA powerhouse@PFLMMA acquired @Bellator
Our roster of fighters corresponds to that of the UFC – both are 30% of the top 25 fighters in the world rankings
PFL launches reimagined Bellator – Bellator International Champions Series
Mega event for fans in 2024 – PFL Champs vs. Bellator Champs pic.twitter.com/Ma4YUl4AUi
– Donn Davis (@DonnDavisPFL) November 20, 2023
Founded in 2018, the PFL is the first MMA organization to use a regular season and playoff format. Bellator has existed since 2008.
The PFL playoff final will be played next Friday evening in Washington. Aubin-Mercier will defend his lightweight title against American Clay Collard.