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The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is expanding its global footprint with the launch of PFL Africa, joining its existing European and MENA (Middle East and North Africa) leagues. This will give fighters in Africa the chance to win prizes as substantial as $1 million.
The CEO PFL, Peter Murray, who disclosed this, at the unveiling ceremony, on Wednesday, in Lagos, said PFL is expanding into Africa with substantial investments planned over the next 12 month.
Murray averred that the platform is aimed at making an impact on the Africa continent and in global stage for Africa fighters with its grand launching in the Africa continent. “The PFL is excited to announce PFL Africa, the third international fight franchise as we continue on our path to becoming the Champions League of MMA,” he added.
The move positions PFL as a true “Champions League of MMA,” offering a platform for elite fighters from all corners of the world.
PFL Africa will feature a familiar format with a Regular Season, Playoffs, and Championship, showcasing the continent’s top talent. Notably, all events will be held in Africa for the first time, bringing the excitement of MMA directly to the passionate fanbase.
Francis Ngannou, a superstar in the MMA world, takes on the role of Chairman for PFL Africa. This groundbreaking partnership also includes an investment from Helios Sports & Entertainment Group (HSEG).
“PFL Africa is a dream come true,” said Murray. “With a global stage for African athletes and a strong broadcast presence, we aree excited to ignite the MMA scene in Africa.”
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Ngannou echoed Murray’s enthusiasm: “I am honored to lead PFL Africa and empower African fighters. This is a chance to showcase the immense talent here and give back to my home continent.”
Helios Investment Partners see immense potential in African MMA. “Africa boasts a wealth of talent and a hungry fanbase,” commented Tope Lawani, Co-Founder of Helios. “PFL Africa perfectly aligns with our vision to champion African talent on a global scale.”
Some of the expected fighters include Kunle Lawal, Sadibou Sy, Shido Boris, Maxwell Djnatou Nana, and Wasi Adeshina.
In his remarks, Lawal said, “I left Nigeria some years ago for Scotland. Part of the reason is because there’s not much opportunity in Nigeria. But now that PFL has come into Nigeria, it’s going to give a lot of young kids the opportunity to make it somewhere big in the future. There’s going to be a lot of rising stars and a lot of people coming back to Africa to perform on their soil. For me, it is indeed a dream come true. I left my country to follow my goals, and now I have a chance to achieve my goal in my own country. I am very grateful for this opportunity.”
A female fighter named Julie Ukah, who trains and lives in Nigeria but competes abroad, showed her happiness by stating that PFL’s coming to Africa and Nigeria was a wonderful thing. “It has always been my goal to inspire young girls to be confident in themselves no matter where they end up. Thus, I’m glad PFL is debuted in Africa and I believe that achieving this goal jointly is a great idea,” she posited.
The PFL is poised to break new ground in African MMA, offering a thrilling and accessible experience for fans. This expansion marks a significant step towards a truly globalized sport.
