PFL Austin – Early Card will take place on Saturday, July 18, 2026. You can catch all the live MMA action exclusively on ESPN Select! A new chapter of competition unfolds as fighters look to establish themselves in a rapidly evolving promotion.
The Professional Fighters League was founded in 2017 following the acquisition and rebranding of World Series of Fighting. In its early years, PFL built its identity around a regular season, playoff, and championship structure that set it apart from the traditional promoter model in MMA. More recently, however, the company has evolved beyond that original format, shifting toward a broader event and tournament-based approach while continuing to position itself as a distinct alternative in the sport. PFL has also expanded its footprint through international leagues, media partnerships, and major acquisitions, reflecting its ambition to grow as a global MMA organization rather than remain tied to one competitive structure.