UFC 314 was another huge success for the promotion, delivering an entertaining night of fights and displaying the talent that the UFC is still building around. With the event in the rearview mirror, Dana White’s attention was appropriately focused on his own organization’s successes, but during the post-event press conference, a question concerning a competitor promotion—Global Fight League (GFL)—forced him to address a completely different issue. The fight industry was talking about GFL, especially after major names like Tony Ferguson came on, but with the scheduled events already canceled, the promotion’s future is definitely questionable.
When asked about the GFL’s “dead on arrival” status, White spoke honestly, albeit briefly. “Yeah, I don’t know enough about the GFL to really speak on it,” he said. The head honcho did not mince words when he added, “But this is… yeah, it’s a lot harder than it looks.” White emphasized that organizing a successful fight promotion is no easy task, even if you have the right names or good concepts on paper. GFL’s failure to make significant progress was evidence of this.
White’s disinterest became apparent when the reporter asked him whether he had some thoughts to share about new promotions that claimed to transform the game but then fizzled after some hoopla. “None. That’s why I don’t know about it. Literally none,” White replied. Well. it’s evident he has no animosity against the GFL or other organizations competing for attention, his concentration is fully on the UFC. Fighters searching for another means to make money, whether on their way up or down, are always welcome, but the UFC CEO’s indifference to the rise and fall of fresh promotions reveals where his priorities lie.
For fighters who signed with the GFL, like Ferguson and others, the situation is a little more difficult. Their desire to relocate to a new promotion in search of a fresh start has become a waiting game. With no events and uncertainties about the promotion’s future, their patience is wearing thin. Meanwhile, the UFC continues to go forward, delivering on its promises and providing the stability that developing leagues cannot always provide. But what does the GFL management have to say about the cancellation? Will we be getting an event anytime soon?
GFL founder addresses the massive cancellation and return plans
When fighters like Tony Ferguson, Anthony Pettis, and Urijah Faber joined the Global Fight League earlier this year, the promotion’s prospects appeared to be bright. These great names added authority to the GFL, and there was genuine excitement about what was to come. The announcement of the first shows, which were scheduled for May in Los Angeles, paved the way for what many anticipated would be a seismic shift in the combat sports industry. However, with the first two events already canceled and the promotion still without a single fight under its belt, the pressure is increasing. It’s unclear whether the GFL will be able to make it off the ground—or if it’s too late for the once-promising venture.
The founder of the GFL, Darren Owen, replied to the growing criticism and dissatisfaction. He recognized that the setback was difficult, but emphasized that the delay was caused by a major financial hiccup. “Our primary investor didn’t fulfill his April obligation,” Owen explained, acknowledging the difficulties it produced. Despite the challenges, Owen assured fans that there was a clear plan for moving forward. “We are likely going to have to launch in June, but 100 percent moving forward,” he added, signaling his determination to see the campaign through, even if the timeframe was pushed further.
With the GFL set to start in June, questions linger regarding the organization’s ability to deliver on its claims. The potential event dates of June 15 and 16 are on the table, but they come with the uncertainty of perhaps shifting away from California—a crucial factor for both fans and fighters. While Owen is optimistic that the GFL will eventually take off, the reality for those involved is different. Fighters who turned down other offers to join the promotion are now questioning if the aim of having huge events, big paydays, and game-changing formats was ever more than a pipe dream in the constantly changing environment of combat sports. What do you think? Will the GFL be able to bounce back? Let us know in the comments.
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