In November 2023, PFL founder Donn Davis made headlines by acquiring Bellator MMA’s roster and assets, issuing a bold challenge to UFC CEO Dana White. On The MMA Hour, Davis confidently declared, “It’s just a matter of time before that starts to get more well-known. Then we are not No. 2, we are co-leaders. He (Dana White) doesn’t want that.” White, however, dismissed Davis’s statement as “hilarious” and offered a sarcastic, “Good luck for them.” Despite the UFC boss’s nonchalant response, it seems that PFL may need more than just luck to succeed.

As the organization approaches 2025, it is gearing up to launch its first Bellator champion in the ‘Road to Dubai: championship series‘ in Saudi Arabia. This event, held in association with Saudi sports magnate Turki Alalshikh, who made key investments in the PFL-Bellator merger, will feature Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov defending his title against Irish prospect Paul Hughes at the Coca-Cola Arena. The event is part of the PFL’s effort to boost tourism in collaboration with Dubai’s tourism department.

However, despite these ambitious plans, Bellator’s situation seems to be worsening. A recent image shared by The MMA Orbit, with the caption “Bellator is dead,” showed an almost empty arena, sparking further conversation. MMA journalist Ariel Helwani also weighed in, with fans quickly reminding Davis of the current struggles to face Bellator.

Last year, Donn Davis boldly claimed that PFL was now worth $1 billion and expressed the organization’s intention to expand into the African market, especially with NBA African investors backing the promotion. However, the sight of Bellator’s empty arena may hinder Davis’s global expansion plans, particularly when compared to UFC, which remains a dominant force in MMA. Fans on The MMA Orbit voiced their concerns with hard-hitting comments, further raising questions about the future of both PFL and Bellator.

Fans deliver blunt verdict to PFL-Bellator in comparison to Dana White’s UFC

Fast forward more than a year, and the unfolding scenario seems to validate White’s doubts. Fans have echoed similar sentiments, with one sarcastically remarking, “Another amazing investment and decision by @PFLMMA,” while another wryly commented, “Breaking News to absolutely nobody,” reflecting their lack of confidence in the merger’s success.

Bellator’s current roster offers only a handful of noteworthy names. Women’s 145lbs champion Cris Cyborg remains a prominent figure, largely due to her legacy as a former UFC champion. Similarly, former UFC fighter Corey Anderson and lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov—cousin of UFC legend and Hall of Fame Khabib Nurmagomedov—are among the few bright spots. This heavy reliance on recognizable names, particularly former UFC fighters, highlights the PFL’s struggle to establish its own identity.

One fan summed up this sentiment by bluntly asking, “What’s Bellator?” while another reminded PFL owner Donn Davis, “UFC will rule the MMA world.” Adding to the mix, new players like the Global Fighting League (GFL) are attempting to enter the competitive MMA market. Set to launch in April 2025, GFL has already sparked rumors, including the possible signing of UFC veteran Tony Ferguson. Despite this buzz, fans remain skeptical of the promotion’s longevity, with one stating, “GFL isn’t going to last long either, going to be a waste of time, IMO.”

What are your thoughts on the latest update from the Bellator Arena? Despite Donn Davis’ repeated claims that the PFL is closing in on competing with Dana White’s UFC, do you believe any promotion can truly match the success and legacy the UFC and Dana White have built? Share your opinion below!