Scott Coker to Launch New MMA League With $60 Million Funding in 2027

Scott Coker, a veteran promoter who founded Strikeforce and previously led Bellator MMA, has announced plans to launch a new global mixed martial arts league in early 2027. The venture has secured $60 million in initial funding from a group of investors, including skateboarding legend Tony Hawk.

Coker will serve as co-founder and CEO of the still unnamed promotion, with Peter Levin, a longtime advisor and investor, serving as co-founder and chairman. The league plans a tournament-centric format focused on a single weight class throughout its first year, with the champion to be crowned over a 12-month period. Coker stated the initial tournament will feature significantly more than eight fighters, a structure he has utilized in past promotions. The organization aims to host 12 events in its first year, with plans to expand to 18 and 22 events in subsequent years. Events are planned for the United States, including the San Francisco Bay Area, New York, and Los Angeles, as well as internationally in Europe and Asia.

The funding is led by investment firm Creator Sports Capital, with participation from Griffin Gaming Partners and others. Additional investors include several...