PFL Hires Turner Broadcasting Chief to Boost Media Presence

Professional Fighters League appoints John Martin as CEO, tapping his media experience to rival UFC. Martin, former Turner Broadcasting CEO, oversees strategy, management, and finances. He will work with founder Donn Davis and report to the PFL's board. Martin will focus on building scale and monetizing revenue streams. The PFL plans to expand globally, launching leagues in Africa, Australia, Latin America, and Asia.

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has appointed John Martin as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant step in the organization's growth strategy. Martin, a seasoned executive with a robust background in media, entertainment, and sports, will oversee the company's strategy, management, operations, finances, and personnel. This appointment comes as the PFL aims to expand globally and solidify its position as a major player in the MMA market.

Martin, previously the Chairman and CEO of Turner LLC from 2014 to 2018, led the company to $13 billion in annual revenue and nearly $5 billion in operating income. He managed a vast portfolio of cable networks, digital platforms, content properties, and sports assets, including TNT, TBS, CNN, and Turner Sports. His tenure at Time Warner Inc., where he served as Chief Financial Officer, further underscores his expertise in managing large-scale media enterprises.

"John Martin is THE ideal CEO to lead the next chapter of growth at PFL," said Donn Davis, PFL Founder and Chairman. "He is a proven media, content, and sports executive who is a respected global leader and business operator at scale. I am thrilled to work closely with John to deliver on the vision to make PFL everything the fans, fighters, and sport of MMA deserves."

Martin's passion for MMA extends beyond his professional life. He began training in martial arts in his mid-20s and has competed in numerous amateur tournaments. His dedication to the sport is evident in his statement: "MMA represents the biggest opportunity in sports, and the PFL has secured a unique position that will never be replicated. I'm incredibly excited about the future of the PFL and confident that we're only at the beginning of what this organization will achieve."

In his new role, Martin will work closely with Davis and report to the PFL's board. He will focus on building scale and monetizing revenue streams, with a particular emphasis on expanding the league globally. The PFL plans to launch leagues in Africa, Australia, Latin America, and Asia, leveraging Martin's extensive experience in media and sports to drive growth and attract a broader audience.

Peter Murray, who has been instrumental in the PFL's growth, will transition to the role of CEO of PFL International. Murray will lead the accelerated launch and growth of the PFL's International Leagues, reporting directly to Martin in this expanded global structure.

The PFL, known for its unique "win and advance" tournament format, has already established itself as a global powerhouse in MMA. With Martin at the helm, the league is poised to capitalize on the growing popularity of MMA and secure a strong position in the global sports market.

References:
[1] https://pflmma.com/news/professional-fighters-league-names-john-martin-as-chief-executive-officer
[2] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/professional-fighters-league-names-john-martin-as-chief-executive-officer-302501821.html