PFL Reveals Ambitious Plans for 2026: Global Expansion and New Format
The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has unveiled its 2026 schedule, promising a season packed with action with a total of 24 events. The league’s strategy includes a global expansion with 16 international events and eight regional events in its MENA (Middle East, North Africa) and Africa series.
The official announcement was made on Tuesday, detailing the first events of the year. The 2026 season will begin in February with a stop in Dubai, followed by two events in March in Madrid and Pittsburgh. In April, fans will be able to enjoy an event in Chicago.The start of the 2026 season of the Professional Fighters League in Dubai. Fabian Edwards, champion of the Middleweight World Tournament this year.The official fight pairings will be announced at a later date. The event in Madrid will mark the PFL’s first foray into Spain.
Founded in 2017, the PFL has undergone a significant transformation in its leadership in recent months. In July, the company appointed John Martin, former executive at Turner and Time Warner, as its CEO. This week, Lenny Daniels, former president of Warner Bros. Discovery Sports, was appointed as chief operating officer.
Historically, promotion had been structured around a regular season and a playoff format. However, in 2025, that format was replaced by a single-elimination tournament. Martin has chosen to abandon the tournament model altogether, favoring a more traditional MMA matchmaking format. The PFL’s national broadcast agreement with ESPN expires at the end of 2026.
