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PFL CEO John Martin Shifts Focus to Traditional MMA Model

2/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

John Martin, CEO of the Professional Fighters League (PFL) since July 2025, shifts toward a traditional MMA model.
After the first 2026 Dubai event, PFL plans 16 global events with championship fights and a yearlong tournament.
Martin says top fighters like Usman Nurmagomedov should stay as PFL's ESPN deal nears expiration.
He stresses consistent scheduling and promotion to boost visibility and fan engagement.

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Story summary

John Martin, CEO of the Professional Fighters League (PFL) since July 2025, shifts toward a traditional MMA model.
After the first 2026 Dubai event, PFL plans 16 global events with championship fights and a yearlong tournament.
Martin says top fighters like Usman Nurmagomedov should stay as PFL's ESPN deal nears expiration.
He stresses consistent scheduling and promotion to boost visibility and fan engagement.