
With its draft just over a week away, the GFL has painted a clearer picture of just how its team-based MMA format will look when the league launches later this year.
On Thursday, GFL officials announced all six teams that will take part in its inaugural season, as well as the managers and head coaches associated with each. They include some familiar names, and incorporate MMA hotspots in Brazil and the U.K.
The teams break down as follows:
- Miami, FL – Thiago “Pitbull” Alves, a former UFC title challenger who coaches out of American Top Team, with serve as manager while fellow ATT coach Conan Silveira (father of PFL star Josh Silveira) will work as head coach.
- Sao Paulo, Brazil – Already previously announced as a manager, Lyoto Machida will have André Pederneiras acting as his team’s head coach.
- London, U.K. – UFC and Ultimate Fighter alum Luke Barnatt will manage the London team, with Carl Prince as coach.
- New York, NY – It might be no surprise to see Ray Longo coaching the New York team; a manager will be named later.
- Dubai, UAE – Previously announced as a manager, former UFC heavyweight champ Cain Velasquez will head up the Dubai team, with AKA’s Javier Mendez as coach.
- Los Angeles – In perhaps the biggest surprise, Brazilian Wanderlei Silva will serve as manager of the L.A. team, while Kings MMA’s Rafael Cordeiro serves as coach.
The GFL has also announced that it’s January 24, 2025 draft will stream live, though details of the broadcast have yet to be confirmed. The draft will take place in Phoenix, Arizona.
“This league is built on respect for the sport’s history and a vision for its future,” said Darren Owen, GFL Commissioner, in Thursday’s press release. “Our cities, managers, and coaches reflect the very best of MMA, and our draft will kick off an unforgettable first season.”