Former UFC Stars Join Forces for Global Fight League

Many in the Mixed Martial Arts community were abuzz on Wednesday as the Global Fight League (GFL) announced its official launch, introducing an impressive roster of over 300 fighters, with a significant number being former UFC fighters. Set to kick off in the opening weeks of 2025, GFL is poised to alter the dynamics of the MMA landscape with its unique league format that incorporates a team-based structure and a draft system.

Co-founder Darren Owen appeared on “The Ariel Helwani Show” to provide insights into the promotion’s ambitious plans. He revealed that not all fighters would be drafted from the impressive pool of talent they have secured. Out of the 92 fighters already listed on the promotion’s official website, 45 boast a background in the UFC. Notable names include the likes of Tyron Woodley, Anthony Pettis, Benson Henderson, and Junior Dos Santos, among others.

What sets GFL apart from its competitors, such as UFC and PFL, is its commitment to a balanced revenue-sharing model. Owen stated that the league offers a 50-50 split in revenue distribution, alongside comprehensive support that includes training and medical bill coverage, retirement benefits, and insurance options for its athletes. This innovative approach aims to attract more talent and provide a lucrative alternative to existing promotions.

The GFL team structure consists of six franchises, with their names and locations yet to be announced. Anticipation is building for the draft, scheduled for January 24, which will lay the foundation for this new MMA league. Following the draft, GFL plans to host its inaugural event in April 2025.

In addition to its unique revenue model, GFL has adopted a point system for regular season fights, similar to that of PFL. A victory by finish will earn a fighter’s team four points, while a decision win secures three points. Teams will also earn points for draws and decision losses, with no points awarded for losses by finish. This system is designed to encourage competitive matchups and ensure that athletes stay invested in the league throughout the season.

Darren Owen is not a newcomer to the world of MMA. His background includes serving as the COO of PFL and founding the World Series of Fighting Canada. He is joined by Arun Parimi as co-founder and COO, with Scott Parker taking on the role of CMO and Jeffrey Pollack as a senior advisor. Although Owen has not disclosed the specific funding sources for GFL, he did mention that they are backed by a Silicon Valley investor, suggesting strong financial support for this venture.

As the launch date approaches, excitement grows within the MMA community. The entry of GFL could potentially transform the competition landscape and provide a fresh platform for athletes looking to showcase their talents. With a roster filled with UFC fighters and a distinctive operational model, Global Fight League is certainly one to watch.