MMA
PFL strengthens global expansion with ownership and management additions
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The Professional Fighters League (PFL) have made two major additions to their ownership and management groups as it continues to push forward with its global expansion at a rapid rate.
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum has joined PFL's global ownership group, while the combat sports company have appointed Andrew Mikhail as their Managing Director for PFL Pacific.
Sheikh Mohammed's entrance to the ownership group strengthens PFL’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Middle East and supporting the growth of mixed martial arts across the UAE and the region.
Sheikh Mohammed said: “I am delighted to join the PFL’s ownership group as I believe in PFL’s global vision to grow the sport of MMA, and I am excited by PFL’s momentum in staging world-class fight events in Dubai and the UAE region.”
Sheikh Mohammed is the founding Chairman of Alpha MBM Investments, a diversified investment company based in Dubai with strategic interests across real estate, technology, energy and sports.
Under his leadership, Alpha MBM has become a key player in driving economic innovation and global partnerships across sectors aligned with the UAE’s long-term vision.
The PFL has already made a significant impact in the region, having become the first global MMA organization to stage a major event in Dubai earlier this year.
“PFL is excited to welcome Sheikh Mohammed and his expertise to our ownership group,” said Peter Murray, CEO of PFL International.
“This marks another major milestone in our global expansion strategy and reinforces our long-term commitment to expanding our presence in the Middle East.”
With the addition of Sheikh Mohammed to the PFL ownership group, the league is further poised to deliver premium MMA experiences in the UAE and across the broader MENA region, while also building pathways for regional fighters to compete on the global stage.
Meanwhile, Mikhail joins PFL Pacific, the fourth international league launched by the Professional Fighters League, following successful expansions into Europe, MENA, and Africa.
Mikhail brings with him a wealth of experience from his previous role as Chief Commercial Officer at the Parramatta Eels, one of Australia's most prominent National Rugby League sides.
“MMA is one of the fastest growing sports globally, and the Pacific region is home to elite talent, passionate fans, and a growing appetite for premium fight experiences,” said Mikhail.
“We’re here to build a sustainable, world-class fight league that champions local athletes and brings premium fight content to audiences across the region.”
As Managing Director of PFL Pacific, Mikhail will lead the league’s expansion across Australia, New Zealand, and the broader Pacific region, driving the PFL’s commercial strategy, operations, media partnerships and fighter development.
His appointment reinforces the PFL’s commitment to building a sustainable and world-class MMA ecosystem in Oceania.
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