A brand new MMA promotion is heading to the MMA world in 2025 with a new, team-based competition featuring a host of familiar fighting names.
The Global Fight League (GFL) will launch its inaugural season in April 2025, and the organisation has unveiled a talent-packed list of fighters that will be available for selection when the first-ever GFL draft takes place on January 24.
A press release from the promotion stated that “the GFL will combine team and city-based competition with a new level of empowerment for male and female fighters across all stages of their career, offering profit sharing on all events from the very start.”
“Our new league is a logical evolution for MMA,” said the promotion’s founder, Darren Owen, via press release.
“Our mission is to embrace fighters as true equitable partners from inception and, together, create a format that can be understood by any sports fan.
“I’ve had hundreds of conversations with MMA legends and rising stars and our business plan is an extension of what I have heard from fighters who want a new way to compete and excel in the world’s fastest growing sport.”
A host of fighters have been recruited to compete in the inaugural GFL season, with a plethora of big names from recent MMA history set to feature in the upcoming team draft.
Former UFC world champions Tyron Woodley, Luke Rockhold, Anthony Pettis, Fabricio Werdum, Junior Dos Santos, Andrei Arlovski and Benson Henderson will all feature in the draft, along with former Bellator champions Hector Lombard, Gegard Mousasi, Rafael Carvalho and Will Brooks. Former World Series of Fighting champion Marlon Moraes is also on the list, and will also head up the newly-formed GFL Athlete Association.
Per the promotion’s release, “the GFL is pioneering a 50% event-specific revenue share model that ensures athletes benefit from the league’s success. This revolutionary structure prioritises fighters’ financial security and professional well-being.
“The GFL is committed to providing unparalleled financial benefits while prioritizing fighter health and safety. Additionally, the league will actively work to eliminate extreme weight-cutting practices to foster a healthier and more sustainable environment for athletes. This initiative reflects the league’s commitment to protecting its athletes and promoting longevity in their careers.
“The league will launch with six teams based in major global markets. Competitions will span the world, culminating in a playoff and a championship that will establish the GFL’s position as a world-class experience for athletes and fans alike. Teams will be coached by some of MMA’s most respected figures, including Rafael Cordeiro, with team managers such as Lyoto Machida bringing exceptional expertise.”
Moraes stated, “This is a new chapter for fighters. The GFL is built on fairness, respect, and opportunity. Fighters now have a voice and a stake in the sport’s future.”
