Details Emerge on GFL Season, Content Creation Deal Announced

Tyron Woodley ahead of Jake Paul boxing match
Tyron Woodley warms up during an open workout. Photo: Amanda Westcott/Showtime

The fledgling Global Fight League (GFL) is ramping up in preparation for its debut this April.

Following a much-maligned draft last month which turned out to be predetermined, and which featured the accidental broadcast of the draft order prior to the official live stream launching, the league has informed fighters of just how the team-based format will play out.

With six teams involved, it appears each city will host a GFL event from April through August. Per a report by MMA Junkie, the breakdown is as follows:

  • April: Los Angeles
  • May: New York
  • June: London
  • July: Miami
  • August: Dubai
  • September: Sao Paulo

GFL officials had previously confirmed to Cageside Press that the regular season would commence in April. Per this new report, it appears fighters will compete in alternating months. The first round of match-ups, in April, will be as follows:

  • Los Angeles vs. New York
  • Dubai vs. Miami
  • London vs. Sao Paulo

Playoffs will follow, with a championship event scheduled for November.

In a surprising twist to the GFL’s fighter-friendly format, athletes will not be permitted to wear sponsors on their fight kits. However, any fighter that brings the promotion a sponsor it successfully signs a deal with will earn a 20% commission.

In a press release issued Tuesday, the GFL also announced a partnership with Box to Box, an Emmy-winning production company, to create a “flagship docuseries” in conjunction with the launch of the league’s first season. Box to Box is also expected to be involved with live event broadcasts, and will create “in-depth athlete profiles into and through the first season.”

“The GFL is pioneering a new chapter in MMA, and we’re thrilled to partner with them to bring their vision to life,” said Paul Martin, Founder of Box to Box. “We will help shape how the league and its athletes connect with audiences worldwide through groundbreaking content.”