PFL-Bellator Champion vs Champion Expected Event in Q1 2024, More Details

PFL MMA has unveiled intentions to organize a champions versus champions event with Bellator MMA in 2024.

The highly anticipated sale of Bellator to PFL was confirmed on Monday by PFL founder Donn Davis in a Twitter announcement. Additionally, Davis revealed significant details during an appearance on the MMA Hour show with Ariel Helwani.

Donn Davis informed Ariel Helwani that the PFL has secured a new TV deal, and they plan to make the announcement two weeks after the Championship event takes place this Friday.

With the completion of the acquisition where PFL bought Bellator, a fresh organization has emerged, solidifying itself as the clear-cut second rival to the UFC. Bellator, founded in 2008 and aired on Showtime, saw Paramount’s exit from combat sports in 2023. Its final event occurred in Chicago last weekend.

Davis also indicated that the PFL champions competing against Bellator champions event is aimed at the first quarter of 2024, possibly occurring in February, showcasing matchups between athletes from both organizations.

Davis mentioned that Patchy Mix and Johnny Eblen won’t be part of the PFL champions versus Bellator champions card because PFL doesn’t currently have bantamweight or middleweight divisions. However, they will have chances to compete on Bellator cards in 2024 and also feature on PFL’s Pay-Per-View events.

The organization also secured the signing of former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in 2023. Ngannou, who recently engaged in a boxing match against Tyson Fury in Saudi Arabia, is anticipated to make his debut in the PFL in 2024. Davis also mentioned that Francis Ngannou is most likely set to face Deontay Wilder in a mixed-rules fight.

Davis has also clarified that Jake Paul is expected to compete in the PFL no earlier than the fourth quarter of 2024. Jake Paul stated that he requires a minimum of a year to prepare for MMA, and he began his training just one month ago. Jake Paul is also scheduled to fight Andre August at an event set for December 15, 2023.

Davis also added that he holds a high level of confidence regarding Kayla Harrison signing a new contract with the PFL. The PFL made attempts to attract Cyborg to their roster in 2023, aiming to arrange a high-profile bout against two-time PFL lightweight champion Kayla Harrison.