Official Statement from UFL CEO Harrison Rogers on GFL: Clarifying the Relationship

MESA, ARIZONA: Please see below for an official statement from Harrison Rogers.

“We think it’s impressive what the Global Fight League (GFL) is attempting to take on. It appears that GFL shares many of the same goals and aspirations for fighters and the beautiful sport of MMA as a whole that we do. However, due to many online comparisons between GFL and the United Fight League (UFL), as well as confusion stemming from an article describing my involvement with a franchise within GFL, it’s important to clarify a few points.

In early 2024, myself (as the CEO of UFL) and Darren Owen (Commissioner of GFL) met at UFL headquarters in Mesa, AZ. Darren presented an impressive vision for what GFL could become. Based on the model presented at the time, I expressed interest in committing to a Phoenix franchise in GFL if everything transpired as discussed. Since then, it appears GFL has adjusted its model and plans for the future. Myself and the whole of the UFL wish them the best of luck.

However, I do not plan to participate in GFL’s future or invest $10 Million into a Phoenix GFL Franchise. I remain fully committed to growing ‘The NBA of MMA’ which is the UFL.

UFL’s focus is on building a strong foundation in the United States, growing city by city, rather than attempting immediate global expansion, as GFL seems to be doing.

While GFL has made promising claims about future events, health insurance, and retirement benefits, the United Fight League has already delivered on these fronts. UFL has accomplished incredible events and provides health insurance and retirement benefits through stock option plans for its exclusive fighters.

With five outstanding events already completed, UFL has demonstrated the power of civic pride that emerges in city-vs-city team-style MMA competition. The UFL point system adds an exciting and innovative element that appeals to both new and longtime MMA audiences. Moreover, the system is simple and easy to understand, unlike some of the point systems described by other promotions.

In conclusion, myself and the UFL wish GFL success in its future endeavors, and we, like the rest of the MMA community, eagerly await the results of their ambitious promises. Myself and the UFL will continue focusing on building ‘The NBA of MMA’ in the United States and executing on our vision.

The full 2025 and 2026 UFL event and season schedules will be released in February 2025.

Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer.

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