The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has signed the latest deal in a series of media rights arrangements this year, partnering with African network SuperSport TV.
SuperSport began broadcasting all PFL and Bellator matches from 7 March and will cover fights from PFL PPV Super Fights, PFL Europe and the newly announced PFL MENA moving forward.
For the PFL, this marks not only an expansion of its global visibility but also a strengthening of its foundations in Africa. The MMA promotion, which has become one of the fastest growing names in the sport, is planning the launch of a new league, PFL Africa.
James Frewin, PFL SVP International, said: “Sub-Saharan Africa represents a priority market for the Professional Fighters League as we continue our rapid global expansion.
“We’re thrilled to partner with SuperSport so viewers across the region can watch premium PFL and Bellator MMA content all year-round on SuperSport.”
Announcement of the SuperSport deal came shortly after PFL clinched a media rights renewal with Brazilian network Globo to ensure continued distribution in Latin America’s largest country, a key market for MMA.
In a wider Latin America push, the company also renewed its partnership with Argentine company Torneos, whilst in the US an extension was signed with ESPN and back in Europe a French deal has been inked with DAZN.
International expansion is now clearly on PFL’s agenda following a huge 2023 for the promotion, which saw it acquire Bellator and fully integrate its roster of fighters with the long-standing tournament.
This global approach has seen the company launch a number of regional leagues – such as the aforementioned PFL MENA under the leadership of new GM Jerome Mezat – and the planned launch of PFL Africa, which will heavily utilise heavyweight fighter Francis Nganou, who despite currently pursuing a boxing career is still signed to the PFL roster.
