John Martin resigns as CEO of MVP-PFL
The executive announced his departure less than two months after the PFL and MVP announced their merger.
John Martin has resigned as CEO of MVP-PFL. The executive announced his departure on Tuesday through a statement posted on his personal Instagram, less than two months after the Professional Fighters League and Most Valuable Promotions announced their merger.
In his statement, Martin expressed pride in what the organization accomplished during his tenure and endorsed MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian as the person to lead the combined company moving forward. Neither the PFL nor MVP has announced his departure.
John Martin Steps Down After PFL-MVP Merger
Martin joined the PFL in July 2025, replacing Peter Murray as CEO. He remained in the position through the promotion's merger with MVP, which was completed in August and brought the two organizations under the same umbrella.
Martin also highlighted his relationship with Bidarian during the process that led to the merger and expressed his support for the MVP co-founder as the organization enters its next phase.
"After an incredible year and the successful combination of PFL and MVP, I've made the decision to step down as CEO of the combined company. I'm enormously proud of what this team has accomplished and couldn't have more confidence in what comes next. Nakisa and I worked closely together to bring these companies together, and I believe he is the natural person to lead this next chapter. I'm grateful to the entire team and Board for their partnership, and I'll be cheering for MVP as both a former executive and a fan," Martin posted on his personal Instagram.
John Martin backs Nakisa Bidarian to lead MVP-PFL
Bidarian co-founded Most Valuable Promotions alongside Jake Paul and played a key role in the company's merger with the PFL. The combined organization is expected to undergo a rebranding in 2027 as it develops its new structure.
Martin's departure marks another leadership change for the PFL after he replaced Murray in 2025. Before joining the promotion, Martin served as CEO of Turner Entertainment and held executive positions at Time Warner.
