The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has partnered with STARZPLAY to boost engagement in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
Kicking the deal off with the launch of the 2025 PFL World Tournament on 3 April, STARZPLAY has stated that the event will be available on its app and across multiple platforms, including mobile and TV.
Covering key markets such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, the partnership aims to expand the PFL’s global footprint.
“We are very excited to partner with STARZPLAY, the leading streaming platform in the MENA region, to bring world-class MMA action to millions of passionate fight fans,” Pete Murray, CEO of PFL, said.
“This multi-year partnership marks a significant milestone in our mission to expand the PFL’s global footprint and deliver premium combat sports content to audiences worldwide.”
The deal includes coverage of all PFL leagues, including the PFL World Tournament, Champions Series, PFL Europe, PFL MENA and PFL Africa. According to STARZPLAY Co-Founder and COO Danny Bates, this partnership will strengthen the company’s growing sports content offering.
Bates commented: “Our partnership with the PFL further strengthens our sports content portfolio, bringing the excitement of world-class MMA to STARZPLAY.
“With more people seeking diverse sports offerings today, this collaboration allows us to deliver premium MMA content to our subscribers across the MENA region, connecting them with the best in regional and international MMA talent. Now, our subscribers can experience all the thrilling action of PFL on STARZPLAY.”
The Middle East is a “key market”
The Middle East has emerged as a growing hub for combat sports, particularly boxing, where Saudi Arabia’s influence continues to rise. Earlier this month, TKO Group entered the boxing world through a long-term deal with Saudi-backed entertainment firm Sela.
While some boxing and MMA stakeholders have criticised the country’s involvement due to human rights and sportswashing concerns, its impact on the sports’ commercial growth is undeniable.
Murray has recognised the strategic importance of the region and underlined the PFL’s commitment to it.
He concluded: “The Middle East is a key market for the PFL and now, fight fans across the region can watch and support their favorite MENA fighters in all PFL events, including the electrifying kickoff of PFL MENA Season 2 in Jeddah this 9 May.”
