PFL Reveals Ambitious Plans for 2026: Global Expansion and New Format
The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has unveiled its schedule for the year 2026, promising a season packed with action and global expansion. The ambitious plan includes a total of 24 events, distributed between 16 global events and eight regional events in its MENA (Middle East, North Africa) and Africa series.
The official announcement was made on Tuesday, detailing the key locations and dates for the start of the season. Fans can expect an inaugural event in Dubai in February, followed by two events in March in Madrid and Pittsburgh, and one in April in Chicago.The start of the 2026 season of the Professional Fighters League will be in Dubai in February. Fabian Edwards was the champion of this year’s Middleweight World Tournament.The official fight pairings will be announced soon. The event in Madrid will mark the PFL’s first foray into Spain, promising an exciting experience for European fans.
Founded in 2017, the PFL has experienced significant changes in its leadership in recent months. John Martin, former executive of Turner and Time Warner, was appointed CEO in July, and Lenny Daniels, former president of Warner Bros. Discovery Sports, assumed the position of chief operating officer this week.
Historically, the promotion was based on a regular season and playoffs format. However, in 2025, that format was replaced by a single-elimination tournament. Martin has chosen to move away entirely from the tournament model, favoring a more traditional MMA matchmaking format.
The PFL has a national broadcast agreement that expires at the end of 2026.
