‘Time for change is now’ – MVP and PFL merge
Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and the Professional Fighters League (PFL) have merged, creating a combined combat-sports company under the MVP brand. The deal brings PFL’s MMA operation alongside MVP’s boxing business and reflects their stated aim of improving fighter pay, expanding audiences and challenging established industry models.
MVP co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian will lead the new partnership, while PFL chief executive John Martin joins its board; the combined roster exceeds 300 fighters. MVP’s first MMA event in May reportedly drew 17 million global viewers for Ronda Rousey’s 15-second win over Gina Carano, while PFL has operated a points-based league format since 2017 and cut its top prize from $1m to $500,000 in 2025. The merger follows MVP’s new agreement with Matchroom Boxing to create further opportunities for women fighters.
- MVP and PFL have merged under the MVP brand.
- The combined company has more than 300 fighters.
- Leaders say the deal will modernise combat sports.