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The Professional Fighters League (PFL), a global leader in mixed martial arts (MMA), has announced the highly anticipated launch of PFL Africa. This exciting new initiative joins PFL Europe and PFL MENA, solidifying the league's vision of becoming the premier MMA platform, akin to the "Champions League" of the sport, across the continent.
PFL Africa is slated to kick off in the second quarter of 2025, offering a thrilling format featuring a Regular Season, Playoffs, and Championship. All events will be held within Africa, showcasing the continent's burgeoning MMA talent on a global stage.
This groundbreaking partnership sees Helios Sports & Entertainment Group invest in PFL Africa, with heavyweight icon and former champion Francis Ngannou taking the helm as Chairman.
Known for its innovative approach to MMA and offering fighters the chance to compete for life-changing million-dollar prizes, PFL is making a significant investment in Africa. This commitment extends beyond the launch, with plans to nurture and cultivate African MMA talent over the next year.
"We are thrilled to announce PFL Africa," said PFL CEO Peter Murray. "Africa is a breeding ground for some of the greatest fighters and most passionate fans in the world. PFL Africa will deliver premium content and establish a strong foothold for the PFL brand in this exciting, underserved market."
Francis Ngannou, Chairman of PFL Africa, echoed the sentiment, stating, "I am honoured to be a part of shaping the future of African MMA. The continent boasts immense talent deserving of a global platform. I'm proud to give back to my homeland and provide high-quality content for our dedicated and diverse fanbase."
BFA Sports Assists in Changing the Narrative of Combat Sports Beyond the Competition
In a private meeting before the event, PFL CEO Peter Murray highlighted to BFA Sports that a key element of PFL's establishment in Africa is to change the narrative surrounding combat sports. Building on this, Bobo Ajudua, Principal Partner at BFA Sports, elaborated to the press that PFL Africa will deploy strategies to further educate and sensitise growing communities on the positive aspects of combat sports.
PFL Africa will introduce a unique, season-based format with a Regular Season, Playoffs, and Championship – all hosted within Africa for the first time. This initiative is fuelled by the investment of Helios Sports & Entertainment Group, with the legendary Francis Ngannou leading the charge as Chairman.
"African talent has consistently excelled on the global MMA stage," said Tope Lawani, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Helios Investment Partners. "However, despite the high demand, there's a lack of events to showcase this talent. This partnership with PFL and Francis Ngannou presents a tremendous opportunity for growth within the African MMA landscape."
The PFL is poised to deliver an unparalleled MMA experience to Africa, and eagerly awaits the launch of PFL Africa in 2025.
About BFA Sport
BFA Sport, a leading Nigerian sports marketing and media agency, is looking to be a communications and brand positioning partner for the PFL Africa. We'll leverage our media network, and brand expertise to ensure that the brand story, journey and growth is experienced across Nigerian and African sports outlets. We also seek to create a digital marketing blitz with social media content, influencer partnerships, and digital advertising. This will reach a broad audience of MMA fans throughout Africa.
BFA Sport seeks to also partner with local gyms and communities to host events and create content that captures the essence of PFL Africa. This includes athlete profiles, event previews, and behind-the-scenes features. Our goal is to ensure PFL Africa receives the recognition and reputation it deserves to foster a vibrant MMA scene across the continent.
Contact:
Ima Elijah
BFA Sports PR