What can we expect in MMA in 2021? We’ve put 2020 in the rearview mirror and all collectively are looking for a bigger and much better 2021. Most promotions have taken a break over the Holidays and will be back with events in the coming weeks. We’re going to highlight some cards and fights that the bigger promotions are putting together to kick off the new year.
MMA in 2021 – UFC
The UFC is returning in 2021 airing for the first time on ABC. The event takes place on Fight Island on January 16th. It’s going to be a very entertaining event, highlighted by a fight between Max Holloway and Calvin Kattar. The rest of the main card looks interesting as well.
Max Holloway vs. Calvin Kattar
Li Jingliang vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio
Rodolfo Vieira vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio
Omari Akhmedov vs. Tom Breese
Joaquin Buckley vs. Alessio Di Chirico
Carlos Condit vs. Matt Brown
MMA in 2021 – Bellator
Bellator head man, Scott Coker, recently stated that he sees Bellator hosting their 2021 debut show in February. No dates or fights have yet been announced.
MMA in 2021- PFL
PFL was on the shelf for all of 2020 due to the Corona Virus. The promotion dealt with some unhappy fighters and they allowed some fighters to leave and seek fights elsewhere. They are scheduled to make their highly anticipated return in April on ESPN 2 in Las Vegas.
PFL recently signed Anthony Pettis who will seemingly fight in their lightweight division. They added another well-known talent in Rory MacDonald.
MMA in 2021 – LFA
LFA continues to deliver good fights and provide big stars for the larger promotions. They are going to make their 2021 debut on January 15 featuring a lightweight title fight featuring Nick Browne facing Arthur Estrázulas. The main card looks like this.
- Nick Browne vs. Arthur Estazulas – Lightweight Title Fight
Jacob Rosales vs. Jose Martinez
Loveth Young vs. Kelly D’Angelo
Michael Stack vs. Jordan Mapa
Thomas Petersen vs. Richard Luis
Kamuela Kirk vs. Guilherme Santos
MMA/Boxing in 2021 – BKFC
I know BKFC isn’t technically MMA, but they are proving to be the most entertaining form of combat sports available. Each event is jam-packed with action and the cards are made up of former and current MMA stars. Their first card of 2021 is scheduled for Super Bowl weekend and will feature the debut of Paige VanZant. So far only two fights have been announced for their February 5 card.
Paige VanZant vs. Britain Hart
Chris Leben vs. Quentin Henry
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