PFL is continuing its global expansion by launching a new league in Australia and New Zealand.
PFL Pacific will be the latest addition to the promotion`s international tournaments, following the successful launches of PFL Europe and PFL Middle East & North Africa (MENA) in recent years. The promotion is also set to kick off PFL Africa this summer, which will feature the return of Dakota Ditcheva.
Following these initiatives, attention will turn to the significant tournament launching in Australia. This league is planned to showcase the next generation of talent from a region renowned for producing world champions such as Israel Adesanya, Rob Wilkinson, and the recently crowned Jack Della Maddalena.
PFL Pacific Officially Launches in 2026
Since establishing its Global Season and now a World Tournament format, PFL has consistently aimed to introduce its brand of MMA globally through regional formats. This strategy began with the first European tournament in 2023, followed by a second in 2024 and the inaugural PFL MENA event.
The next major focus is PFL Africa, spearheaded by legendary heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, scheduled to start in Cape Town on July 26. It has now been officially confirmed that in 2026, the expansion will continue with the launch of PFL Pacific in Australia and New Zealand.
The creation of the league is supported by a significant media partnership with Nine in Australia, guaranteeing coverage across Stan Sport, 9Now, and the 9Network. The tournament format will feature competitors from the region competing over four events in a knockout structure next year.
PFL CEO Peter Murray Comments on PFL Pacific Launch
Commenting on the announcement, PFL CEO Peter Murray stated: “Bringing the Professional Fighters League to Australia and the Pacific region, and delivering our world-class MMA and biggest stars to local fans, has been a priority.”
“Through our significant partnership with Stan, and the expanded reach via streaming on 9Now and free-to-air broadcast on the 9Network, we are creating Australia`s most accessible MMA experience ever,” he added.
“The launch of PFL Pacific also establishes a foundation for long-term growth, with the goal of crowning more Australian champions than any other league in the next three years.”
