PFL CEO John Martin announced major updates for the company’s 2026 plans. Martin explained that fans will see stronger cards and clearer format next year.
For years, PFL used a tournament system that worked like formats in other sports leagues. Fighters competed in regular season fights that followed a point-based round robin system. Each win earned points, with top point leaders advancing to the playoffs.
Although some events offered featured bouts, the matchmakers were limited with which fights they could book. However, that has now changed since Martin was appointed PFL CEO in July. He recognized the restrictions with the tournament system and promised a better experience going forward.
“We’re stepping away from the tournament format,” Martin said during his announcement post on X. “That means every card is gonna be built around the best fights possible. The biggest fights every card. The fights the fans are asking for and the fights that the fighters want.”
Martin noted that the shift does not eliminate tournaments entirely. The structure will remain in the PFL’s regional leagues because those are focused on developing new stars.
“Our regional leagues in MENA and Africa are gonna continue to maintain tournament formats, building the next wave of stars who will move up to the global stage,” Martin said. “This is a new era in the PFL. The best fighting the best every time.”
PFL CEO John Martin Announces 2026 Event Details
PFL CEO John Martin also revealed new details about their 2026 event schedule. He confirmed a strong focus on events in the United States. Beginning next year, the promotion will deliver more major events for their American fans.
“We’re running at least 24 events worldwide [in 2026], with 16 major cards on ESPN in the United States featuring our top fighters in the PFL going after world championships,” Martin said. “10 of those [events] are going to be right here in the United States.”
PFL’s real commitment to quality cards is a step in the right direction, as it will set a standard for what their promotion has to offer. This move could bode well in making them a true viable alternative to the UFC, providing another lucrative outlet for fighters.
The event schedule and new format should make it easier for MMA fans to follow along. The previous format and number of champions made it more difficult, which was a knock against the promotion in recent years.
Martin Announces Locations for First Four PFL Events in 2026
Martin also revealed locations for PFL’s first four events in 2026.
Like they did in 2025, PFL will kick off their 2026 schedule in Dubai. They have already had success in that market, especially with their lightweight title fights between Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes.
In addition to Nurmagomedov and Hughes, PFL’s roster includes the likes of AJ McKee, Vadim Nemkov, and Francis Ngannou.
PFL will also host their first event in Spain in 2026, further expanding their global presence. This is a significant, as Dana White has been open about hosting a UFC event in that market as well.
“We’re gonna kick off things in a big way. Our first four stops: Dubai, Madrid, Spain, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Chicago, Illinois.”
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