PFL Confirms Third Consecutive Event in Lyon, France
Lyon, France – August 22, 2026 – The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has officially announced its return to Lyon for a third consecutive year, with an event scheduled for December 19, 2026, at the LDLC Arena. This news was confirmed by PFL CEO John Martin in an exclusive interview with L’Équipe, highlighting Lyon’s growing significance for the global MMA promotion.
A Special Connection with Lyon
John Martin expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the PFL back to Lyon. “I am very happy to announce our return to Lyon,” Martin stated. “This will be our third event there. It has become a very special place for the PFL.” The organization previously held successful events in Lyon in 2024 and 2025, solidifying its presence in the French market.
The LDLC Arena in Décines-Charpieu, which hosted the last PFL event in December, left a lasting impression on Martin. He recalled the electric atmosphere, describing the crowd as “noisy, enthusiastic,” and comparing the ambiance to a European football match. The previous event featured notable victories, including Patrick Habirora’s knockout win against Kevin Jousset, further cementing the arena’s reputation as a prime venue for MMA.
Anticipated Fight Card and Ticket Information
While the full fight card remains under wraps, John Martin has promised an exciting lineup designed to thrill French fans. He hinted at a “headliner that will greatly please French fans,” a significant presence of French and Francophone fighters, and declared that this will be “the best card” the PFL has ever offered on French soil. Details regarding ticket sales will be announced “very soon,” according to the CEO.
Transition to MVP MMA
This upcoming event in Lyon will be one of the last under the PFL banner. Following its merger with Most Valuable Promotions, the organization is set to officially rebrand as MVP MMA in January 2027. This transition marks a new chapter for the promotion, promising continued growth and exciting developments in the world of mixed martial arts.
Impact on French MMA Scene
The PFL’s consistent return to Lyon underscores the increasing popularity of MMA in France. The organization’s commitment to featuring local talent and delivering high-quality events has contributed significantly to the sport’s burgeoning fan base in the region. The December 19 event is expected to draw a large crowd, further boosting the profile of MMA in Lyon and across France.
The announcement has generated considerable anticipation among MMA enthusiasts, who are eager to witness another spectacular night of fights. The PFL’s dedication to providing a memorable experience for fans, combined with the passionate support from the Lyon audience, ensures that this third installment will be another landmark event for the organization.
Further details about the fight card and ticket availability will be released in the coming weeks, and fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates from the PFL and local promoters.
Source: https://www.lequipe.fr/Mma/Actualites/Le-pfl-retrouvera-la-ldlc-arena-de-lyon-le-19-decembre-pour-la-troisieme-annee-de-suite/1712745
