The
Professional fighter league another big change is happening.
PFL CEO John Martin announced Tuesday that he is stepping down. Martin’s decision comes barely a month after the PFL merger
The most valuable offers. Martin had taken on the role of CEO of the combined brand.
John Martin steps down as CEO of PFL-MVP and endorses Nakisa Bidarian as the next leader
Martin also said MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian will likely take over after him.
“After an incredible year and the successful combination of PFL and MVP, I have decided to step down as CEO of the combined company,” Martin announced on Instagram. “I’m incredibly proud of what this team has accomplished and couldn’t be more confident about what’s next. Nakisa and I worked closely together to bring these companies together, and I believe she is the natural person to lead this next chapter. I am grateful to the entire team and board for their cooperation, and I am happy for MVP as a former fan and as a fan.”
Martin took over as CEO of PFL following the departure of former CEO Peter Murray and Chairman Donn Davis in July 2025.
John Martin
announced this morning on his personal Instagram that he is stepping down as CEO of MVP/PFL effective immediately.Here is the statement. We’re going to talk a lot more about that on today’s show. pic.twitter.com/XF3tS4kpgO
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani)
September 22, 2026