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PFL continues MMA takeover following Jake Paul and Francis Ngannou signings by buying rival company Bellator

The PFL is making serious moves in the MMA world having just acquired rival organisation Bellator.

The combination of the two organisations, after months of speculation, brings them closer to the well-established might of the UFC.

The PFL is now the second biggest MMA organisation
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The PFL is now the second biggest MMA organisationCredit: Cooper Neil/PFL

The PFL have said they will continue the Bellator brand and it will be used for 'one-off' events.

This comes after the PFL recently took investment from the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund in August.

“PFL is now a global powerhouse in MMA,” said Donn Davis, PFL Founder and Chairman.

“Our Bellator acquisition turbocharges PFL’s mission to innovate the sport and become the industry co-leader.” 

Meanwhile PFL CEO, Peter Murray, said: “The combined PFL and Bellator fighter rosters are second to none in MMA.

“We can’t wait to bring MMA fans what they have been asking for - best vs best with the PFL Champions vs Bellator Champions Mega-Event.” 

The biggest name in the PFL is former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, who recently made the move over to boxing where he put in an excellent performance against Tyson Fury, losing a narrow split decision.

Social media influencer turned combat sports star Jake Paul, who reacted to the news, saying: "Massive news, the PFL has acquired Bellator.

"This is insane news for the whole entire industry and it makes PFL even more of a global powerhouse, with a fight roster now equal to that of the UFC.

"And we have some challenges, lets prove it, their champions versus our champions, let's make it happen."

This came alongside the caption: "This is a great day for all PFL and Bellator fighters and MMA fans. The stronger we get, the more opportunities there are for everyone."

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