PFL suspends 2020 season amid COVID-19 pandemic; contracted fighters to receive stipends
The PFL has pulled the plug on its entire 2020 season.
According to PFL CEO Peter Murray, the promotion will resume operations in 2021, and all contracted fighters will receive a monthly cash stipend to hold them over.
MMA Junkie confirmed the news with a PFL official on Monday after it was first reported by ESPN. The PFL later issued a statement in a press release.
“In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Professional Fighters League has rescheduled our upcoming 2020 season for Spring 2021,” Murray said. “PFL is a global MMA league with athletes from over 25 countries, and our decision is guided by the health and safety of our fighters, fans, partners, and event personnel.
“The PFL mission is to evolve and grow the sport of MMA, and we look forward to staging our unique sport-season format with regular season, playoff and championship events on ESPN platforms next year. PFL has always been focused on delivering the best made-for-TV MMA product, and we will continue to deliver the most innovative fight experience going forward. Fans can also look forward to PFL elevating our roster with new championship caliber fighter signings such as Rory MacDonald.”
The PFL usually starts its regular season in late spring before moving to a tournament playoff format. It would round off with the championship rounds on New Year’s Eve in New York, awarding the winner in each weight class a $1 million prize.
PFL initially put the season on hold amid growing concerns over the coronavirus outbreak. Murray said the promotion felt obligated to continue supporting athletes and will attempt to continue creating content until live events resume.
“For the remainder of 2020, the PFL will support our fighters with a monthly cash stipend to help provide some relief during these challenging times,” Murray said. “In addition, for sports fans who we know are looking for compelling content, the PFL will deliver new original programming across ESPN and PFL platforms. PFL will continue to be an innovator in the world of sports.”