The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every major combat sports promotion, but few were presented logistical hurdles like the PFL faced.
While figuring out how to restart after a shutdown was a challenge for all promotions, most simply have to figure out how to get individual, unrelated fight cards up and running. The PFL, though, has a regular season and playoff format which can’t be easily replicated in truncated form.
So the PFL had to cancel its 2020 season. However, the company will return for its full 2021 season, and announced the full slate of regular-season fight cards Tuesday.
The PFL returns on April 23, then follows up on April 29 and May 6. The second round of regular-season bouts in each of the six weight classes will be held on June 10, 17, and 25.
PFL regular season bouts will air on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes and stream on ESPN+. Locations have yet to be announced for the cards, and playoff events will be announced at a later date.
“We’re thrilled to announce an early start date for the 2021 PFL Season and we look forward to building on the positive momentum experienced in a historic first season on ESPN,” said PFL CEO, Peter Murray.
“Our champions return looking to earn another title, while a fresh crop of exciting new fighters will challenge for the top spot in MMA,” he continued. “Additional contenders will be unveiled in the leadup to what we believe will be the biggest season in PFL history.”
Returning champions, who have won the PFL’s $1M purse, include two-time Olympic gold medalist Kayla Harrison and Ray Cooper III. New PFL competitors of note include former Bellator welterweight champion Rory MacDonald, Johnny Case, Olivier Aubin-Mercier, and Bubba Jenkins.