As the UFC continues to rise on the global stage, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) has struggled with internal turbulence over the past two years. That instability has now led to another major leadership change, as former CEO Peter Murray has officially exited the organization after eight long years at the helm. His departure marks the latest shakeup at the top of the promotion.

Peter Murray, a prominent figure in the MMA industry, served as PFL’s founding CEO starting in 2018 and was moved to a new role last July when the company reshuffled its leadership. At the time, the promotion shifted Murray, who had been in that position since 2018, to oversee its international operations, while he was replaced by John Martin as the new CEO. He remained as the CEO of PFL International for six months. However, now he has decided to part ways with the organization entirely.

UFC competitor sees key figure depart after eight-year tenure

The Promotion confirmed Murray’s departure in an official social media statement. “As founding CEO of PFL, Peter played an integral role over the last eight years in the league’s growth and evolution, helping to strengthen the organization’s business operations, expand its global footprint, and establish PFL as a force in the sport of MMA,” PFL’s official statement read. “His leadership and commitment were instrumental during a period of significant development for the company.”

Donn Davis, PFL’s founder and chairman, also thanked Murray for his service to the promotion, stating, “PFL would not be here today without Pete Murray’s relentless entrepreneurship and selfless leadership. He has been my trusted and valued partner building the company and I look forward to his continued support.”

Murray also had a strong presence outside of MMA. Notably, while serving as an executive at Under Armour from 2014 to 2018, he helped extend Steph Curry’s endorsement contract, a move that laid the groundwork for the long-term success of Curry’s signature shoe line.

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Now, his departure raises questions about the future direction of the the Promotion, especially after the promotion acquired Bellator. Since then, PFL has absorbed Bellator’s entire roster, effectively ending the Bellator brand.

PFL sets the stage for a game-changing 2026

CEO John Martin has led the promotion to thrive with Saudi Arabia’s investment. Last year, PFL successfully expanded into the Middle East and Africa, strengthening its roster and international presence. While UFC features stars like Usman, Nurmagomedov, and Paul Hughes, PFL, meanwhile, now aims to secure its own media rights as its deal with ESPN ends after the 2026 season. Martin plans to land a major deal on the scale of UFC.

“I think that’s incredibly exciting in a year where we’re going to be talking to potential rights buyers about who wants to be in business with us from the beginning of 2027 and beyond. I think every year is critically important but I look forward to this year delighting fans and raising the level of our brand,” John Martin told Bloody Elbow.

“There are a lot of bright days ahead for our company and I can’t wait to showcase the talent and the depth that we have at the PFL,” he added.

Now, the Promotion will host another Middle East event, with the ‘Road to Dubai’ card scheduled for February 7. In the main event, lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov will defend his title against PFL Lightweight World Tournament champion Alfie Davis.

Given that the promotion has a relatively small pool of superstar faces, how do you see PFL shaping its future? Let us know your thoughts below.