Scott Coker doesn’t have a name for his new MMA promotion, but the former Strikeforce and Bellator MMA boss does have a leadership team comprised of familiar faces.
Joining Coker for his return to cage fighting are Kevin Kay, Chief Content Officer (Paramount Network, Spike TV), Tom Fox, Chief Operating Officer (Gatorade, NBA Properties, Arsenal), and Rich Chou, Executive Vice President, Athlete Relations (Strikeforce, Bellator MMA).
Kay helped develop the original “Ultimate Fighter” (TUF) and was instrumental
in bringing UFC to Spike TV. Without that network deal, and the legendary Griffin-Bonnar showdown to close the inaugural season, there’s a pretty good chance UFC would not be where it is today.
Or even be here at all.
Joining them are Paolo Boccotti, Executive Vice President, European Production & Operations (Fight Code, Bellator MMA), Lawrence Stuart, Executive Vice President, Media Rights & Business Development (CMP, Screenz, ICM Partners), and Chris DeBlasio, Executive Vice President, Global Head of Communications (Showtime Sports).
“We have assembled a team of premium sports leaders who share our values and respect for combat sports,” Coker said in today’s release. “Tom, Kevin, Rich, Paolo, Lawrence and Chris each bring world-class experience and the industry relationships needed to drive MMA forward, while always honoring its roots, the athletes and the fans who supported this sport from the beginning. Collectively, we see where the sport can go and we also know where it comes from.”
Coker and Co. are scheduled to launch in early 2027, backed by $60 million in financing. Their new promotion is expected to feature a league format and a “robust roster” of talent, providing an alternative for athletes no longer in bed with UFC or PFL. The actual league name, competition structure, athlete participation, media partnerships, and event schedule, will be announced soon.
