“They’re Making Moves”: Days After Losing More Than $800 Million Due to Saudi Arabia’s PFL Move, Dana White Finally Reveals the Real Reason Behind the Alliance Between the Two

Saudi Arabia is making moves! The Oil Moguls of the world have set their sights on MMA. How? Well, the Kingdom has signed a $100 million dollar deal with UFC’s rival promotion – the PFL. After news about this deal surfaced on social media, many were left pondering about the implications of this sudden move.

Now, Dana White – the UFC President has weighed in on this deal. So, what does the UFC head honcho think about this deal between the Oil Moguls and the PFL? Well, it seems like although White is not exactly celebrating this investment into his rival promotion, he still considers this move to be beneficial for the fight game. What’s more – according to sources, this move has cost Dana White and Co. a staggering $800 million. Yet, the UFC head honcho doesn’t seem too bothered about this loss. Why? Let’s hear it from the man himself!

Dana White breaks his silence on Saudi Arabia’s $100 million PFL move

During the recent Contender Series presser, Dana White took his time to answer questions about the recent developments in the UFC. Amidst the inquiries, one journalist raised the topic of Saudi Arabia’s growing presence in the realm of global sports.

In response to the question about Saudi Arabia’s substantial investments in various sports, Dana White acknowledged their commitment. He noted that over the years, Saudi Arabia has poured significant resources into developing its infrastructure, transforming it into a tourist destination. The UFC head honcho stated, “They’ve also, over the last – I don’t know how many years – dropped billions into their infrastructure there, in creating a place where they want tourists. [They’re] trying to make it a destination for tourism.”

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He drew a parallel with Las Vegas, emphasizing the transformative impact of sports teams on the city. White acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s financial prowess, declaring, “They’re making moves. They’ve probably got more money than anywhere else in the world. I get it.”

Saudi Arabia’s strategic investment marks a new chapter for the PFL

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has established SRJ Sports Investments, a move designed to secure a “minor equity ownership stake” in the Professional Fighters League (PFL). This calculated investment aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its sports investment portfolio. Beyond acquiring a share of the PFL, the PIF has ambitious plans to support the launch of a new PFL MENA league, scheduled for debut in the second quarter of 2024. But what motivates this unprecedented venture?

Well, before we get into that – it’s important to note that ever since this deal was signed, UFC’s stock market value has dropped by a whopping $800+ million dollars. Moreover, Saudi Arabia’s financial infusion comes at a pivotal moment for the PFL. The promotion, renowned for its unique tournament format and million-dollar prizes for winners, has faced financial challenges since its inception. PFL’s financial data from 2021 reveals a deficit of $46.7 million, with expenditures surpassing revenues. 

The PFL envisions a significant global expansion, with the creation of PFL Europe and PFL MENA. Taking inspiration from the successful model of football’s Champions League, Saudi Arabia aims to craft a “Champions League of MMA” by the year 2026. The financial magnitude of this investment is substantial, with reports indicating a deal worth $100 million.

Yet, this newfound investment holds the promise of infusing financial stability into PFL’s operations, enabling ambitious signings and super-fight plans, exemplified by their acquisition of former UFC star Francis Ngannou. What do you think? Will we see UFC stars signed to the PFL – with the aid of this $100 million dollar boost? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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