Exciting times lie ahead for WMMA fans as the Professional Fighters League (PFL) prepares for its transformative return in 2025. Ariel Helwani announced the news on her show, revealing significant changes for women’s MMA that promise bigger matches, tougher competition, and new opportunities.
First, PFL officially retired the Bellator name after the 2023 acquisition. Bellator, known for its top-level fighters and tournaments, will continue through the new “PFL Champions Series.” The series focuses on crowning a division champion and provides fans with high-stakes title fights throughout the year.
The league’s popular seasonal tournaments will continue, but with important updates. Although the championship prize money has been reduced from $1 million to $500,000, these tournaments do not compete for major belts, but serve as a platform for potential No. 1 contenders to emerge. Additionally, the old points system that rewarded fighters for quick finishes has been abolished. The tournament follows a simple Grand Prix style format where winning is all that matters.
Another interesting development is that elbow strike In the battle of PFL. This rule change adds even more excitement and intensity to every match.
In women’s MMA, PFL continues to introduce two standout weight classes: featherweight (145 pounds) and flyweight (125 pounds). Cris Cyborg has reigned supreme in the featherweight division, further cementing her status as one of the all-time greats by defeating Larissa Pacheco last October. Meanwhile, Dakota Dicheva has emerged as a breakout star in the flyweight division, winning last year’s Global Season tournament with her deadly striking and finishing skills. These two elite athletes are the undisputed leaders in their respective divisions and are the driving force behind the PFL’s women’s roster.
The first ‘PFL Champions Series’ event will be held in Dubai on January 25th. Although this event will not include any women’s battles, it will set the tone for what is to come in this new era.
With these changes, PFL will take the game to the next level, and fans can expect more action, intense rivalries, and unforgettable moments in 2025. Stay tuned to WMMA Rankings for the latest information on women’s MMA.
