PFL Reveals Ambitious Plans for 2026: Global Expansion and New Formats
The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has announced its 2026 schedule, promising a season packed with action with a total of 24 events. This ambitious schedule includes 16 global events and eight regional events, consolidating its presence in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) and Africa series.
PFL unveiled its plans for 2026 on Tuesday, highlighting its global expansion. The promotion will kick off the year with an event in Dubai in February, followed by two events in March, one in Madrid and another in Pittsburgh. April will bring one more event, this time in Chicago.The 2026 season of the Professional Fighters League will begin in February in Dubai. Fabian Edwards was this year’s Middleweight World Tournament champion.
The official matchups 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. The company appointed John Martin, former executive at Turner and Time Warner, as its CEO in July, and Lenny Daniels, former president of Warner Bros. Discovery Sports, as its COO this week.
Historically, the promotion had been built around a regular season and playoffs format. That format disappeared in 2025, replaced by a direct elimination tournament. Martin has chosen to move away completely from the tournament model, favoring a more traditional MMA matchmaking format. The PFL has a national broadcast agreement.
