Two of the unique characteristics that made PFL MMA different from other organizations like the UFC are reportedly going away in 2025.
Trying to carve out a section of the MMA market with the UFC being such a dominant force in the industry is incredibly hard. Many companies — some very good ones like Pride FC and Strikeforce — have come and gone over the last 20 years. However, PFL MMA has shown some staying power and growth during the 2020s.
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From the start, the promotion that used to be World Series of Fighting looked to stand out by producing MMA content based on a league format. Fighters competed in a season and looked to finish the year near the top of the standings to secure a high seed in the PFL Playoffs. And the winner of the postseason would get a massive $1 million check at the end of the season.
However, a worrisome new report claims both of those unique elements that made the PFL different are disappearing this year.
PFL MMA no longer handing out million-dollar championship checks
On Thursday, MMAJunkie confirmed a rumor about some major changes that were unveiled in contracts being handed out for the 2025 PFL MMA season. The most surprising adjustment is that million-dollar checks will no longer be handed out to division champions next season. Instead, tournament winners will receive a $500,000 bonus.
Furthermore, gone is the season format. Instead, PFL MMA will go to a classic tournament to decide the top fighters in a given year. It is a major change for the organization away from its most unique quality. It is also a worrisome sign about their future.
After getting a huge investment from Saudi Arabia they purchased Bellator MMA. However, there has been a great deal of unrest among the roster about a lack of fighters from Bellator talent. Also, the company’s massive pay-per-view card last year featuring Francis Ngannou underperformed. Cutting back expenses in a major way is a concern for any company’s long-term outlook.
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