PFL has announced the launch of PFL Africa, set for the second quarter of 2025, with former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou as chairman, marking a significant step ahead of UFC in hosting MMA events in Africa.
PFL is beating UFC to the punch in regards to hosting MMA events in Africa.
On Wednesday, the promotion officially announced the launch of PFL Africa. PFL’s newest regional league is expected to launch in the second quarter of 2025.
Former UFC heavyweight champion and 2023 free agent acquisition Francis Ngannou will serve as PFL Africa chairman, the promotion stated in the announcement.
“I am excited and honored to serve as Chairman of PFL Africa, a league that will shape the very foundation of African MMA,” Ngannou said in a release.
“As we have seen, there is a great wealth of talent in Africa just waiting to be given a global stage. I am so very proud to give back to my homeland and to provide great content to a region with such a passionate and diverse fan base.”
PFL Africa will use the promotion’s hallmark format, which includes a regular season, playoffs, and divisional season championship.