Scott Coker to launch new MMA promotion in 2027 with $60M

Veteran mixed martial arts promoter Scott Coker is preparing to launch a new, yet-to-be-named MMA promotion in early 2027, backed by $60 million in initial financing. The organization has announced its leadership team and clarified its planned competition format, aiming to carve out a distinct space in the crowded combat sports landscape.

Coker, the co-founder and CEO, stated that the promotion will not be solely focused on tournaments, a format with which he has extensive experience. While a major annual tournament will be featured, the rest of the schedule will consist of what he described as "great super fights" and traditional matchmaking. The promotion intends to stage 12 events in its inaugural year.

The executive team assembled includes several familiar names from Coker's past ventures. Rich Chou, who worked with Coker at both Strikeforce and Bellator MMA, will serve as Executive Vice President of Athlete Relations. Kevin Kay, former president of Paramount Network and Spike TV, has been named Chief Content Officer. Other key hires include Tom Fox as Chief Operating Officer, Paolo Boccotti as Executive Vice President of European Production and Operations, Lawrence Stuart...