Global Fight League Debuts in Los Angeles with Back-to-Back Events

The world of mixed martial arts is about to witness the dawn of a new era as the Global Fight League (GFL) officially makes its debut. The promotion announced its inaugural back-to-back events set for May 24 and May 25 at the iconic Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, promising a groundbreaking team-based format and a star-studded lineup featuring MMA legends and rising talents.

GFL’s debut features 31 fights over 2 days and 42 former UFC fighters 🤯 pic.twitter.com/02LaWlEfxC

— Uncrowned (@uncrownedcombat) March 31, 2025

A Revolutionary Team-Based Format

The GFL is entering the MMA scene with a unique approach: a team-based competition structure that sets it apart from traditional promotions. The league has established six franchises representing major cities worldwide—Los Angeles, New York, London, Dubai, São Paulo, and Miami. Fighters were drafted into these teams earlier this year, and their performances will contribute to their team’s overall success through a points system.

Here’s how the scoring works:

• A finish earns 4 points.

• A decision win grants 3 points.

• A draw results in 2 points.

• A decision loss gives 1 point.

• A stoppage loss yields no points.

This innovative format not only adds a layer of strategy but also emphasizes teamwork in what has traditionally been an individual sport. The co-ed teams will feature fighters from 10 weight classes, creating diverse matchups that appeal to fans across the board.

The GFL’s business model is equally groundbreaking, offering fighters a 50-50 revenue split—an enticing proposition that has already attracted former champions, title contenders, and big-name draws from organizations like the UFC, Bellator, and PFL. This approach could signal a shift in how MMA promotions operate, potentially setting new standards for fighter compensation and career sustainability.

A Star-Studded Fight Card

The May 24 event will kick off with an electrifying lineup headlined by two high-profile trilogy bouts. Urijah Faber, a former UFC title challenger and WEC champion representing Team Los Angeles, will face Renan Barao of Team São Paulo. This marks the third meeting between these bantamweight legends. Faber lost their first two encounters during his UFC tenure—the first via decision in an interim title fight and the second via knockout. Now coming out of retirement after hanging up his gloves in 2019, Faber looks to settle the score against Barao, who has struggled recently but remains a dangerous opponent.

The second marquee matchup features Anthony Pettis (Team New York) against Benson Henderson (Team London). Their rivalry dates back to their WEC days when Pettis famously landed his “Showtime Kick” en route to winning the lightweight title in their first meeting. He later submitted Henderson in their UFC rematch. Both fighters have had ups and downs since leaving the UFC—Pettis struggled during his PFL stint, while Henderson fell short in multiple Bellator title bids—but their history guarantees fireworks when they meet again.

Other notable matchups on the May 24 card include:

• Holly Holm (Team New York) vs. Julia Budd (Team London)

• Sage Northcutt (Team Los Angeles) vs. Lucas Martins (Team São Paulo)

• Ray Borg (Team Los Angeles) vs. Marlon Moraes (Team Miami)

• Aspen Ladd (Team New York) vs. Alejandra Lara (Team São Paulo)

In total, the two-day event will feature an impressive 31 bouts, showcasing fighters with significant achievements across various promotions. The GFL has promised additional announcements regarding broadcast details and ticket sales in April.

A Bold Vision for MMA’s Future

The GFL’s debut at the Shrine Auditorium—a venue steeped in entertainment history—sets an ambitious tone for the promotion’s future. Founder Darren Owen expressed his excitement about introducing this innovative concept to fans: “We are thrilled to showcase both MMA legends and emerging talents in this groundbreaking format. The Shrine Auditorium is the perfect stage for what promises to be an unforgettable event.”

With its team-oriented structure, high-profile signings, and commitment to fighter equity, the GFL is positioning itself as a major player in the MMA landscape. Its debut comes at a time when fans are hungry for fresh ideas and fighters are seeking better opportunities.

As anticipation builds for May 24 and 25, one question looms large: Can the GFL deliver on its promise of revolutionizing MMA? If its debut lives up to expectations, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter for both fighters and fans alike.