Another major MMA organization is erring on the side of caution in postponing future events. PFL was supposed to kick off their 2020 season in May, but due to the coronavirus worldwide pandemic, is postponing the season. The announcement was made earlier today by PFL CEO Peter Murray.
PFL’s Official Statement
With promotions big and small canceling shows, MMA pundits and fans were speculating on what PFL was going to do about their shows going forward. Today, CEO Peter Murray officially made the statement that PFL shows for 2020 would not be happening.
“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.”
In lieu of fights, Murray also said that they would be making original content available through ESPN and their home PFL platforms.
PFL Paying Fighters
Though the fighters scheduled to participate this year will not be fighting, Murray said they will still get paid. “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.”
The full statement from PFL can be read.
Johnny Case
Johnny “Hollywood” Case was one of the fighters who was supposed to be in this season’s lightweight division. A former UFC and RIZIN fighter, this was second attempt to try to net the PFL’s $1 million prize. He competed in the quarterfinals in 2018 but did not advance. He is disappointed that the season will not be happening.
“It’s heartbreaking to find out I may not be fighting for the year 2020. Not just for the PFL but fighting in general,” he said in an exclusive interview with MMASucka.
“It’s such a huge part of my life and who I am. It’s disheartening at best to have to sit out a year of my career when I feel I’ve only just began to reach my best potential.”
“I personally think the stipend is very much appreciated and very much needed. We as fighters are 10-99 employees and do not get paid salaries. It’s an eat what you kill type of financial situation and not knowing when the next possible payday could be is very concerning to say the least,” he said.
“It’s sad we’re talking about plans to ‘just get by this year.’ Rather than plans to win a world title.”
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