The PFL has announced a new, multi-year partnership with DraftKings, which will see the brand become its official partner when the season starts.
Wagering on PFL fights through DraftKings will be available for fans across the country, pending regulatory changes, as sports betting regulations are still being finalized across different US states.
DraftKings will utilise the PFL’s SmartCage technology to deliver unique prop bets and provide more gaming opportunities to fans.
As part of the deal, live DraftKings odds will be integrated into each event, as well as during PFL’s pre-fight shows.
DraftKings chief business officer, Ezra Kucharz, said: “We are excited to further our relationship with the Professional Fighters League as their first official betting and daily fantasy partner.
“MMA is mainstream. The fan is young, loyal, passionate, and engaged, and PFL delivers an innovative product. We look forward to bringing a premium betting and fantasy experience to this growing audience in what is a monumental partnership for combat sports and the gaming industry.”
PFL is the first in combat sports to distribute real-time fighter data and analytics, which will be included in every broadcast across the league’s social channels.
The data will allow users to access metrics like punch speed, fighter tracking, kick speed, heart rate and caloric burn. The data could change the way fans bet on fighting as more prop bets become possibilities; for example, fans can bet on whether a fighter will land a strike of more than 25mph.
CEO of the PFL, Peter Murray, said: “We're thrilled to partner with DraftKings as we look to advance the sport by delivering a premium and unique betting and gaming experience to the millions of passionate MMA fans in the US.”
“Our SmartCage technology and unique season format are integral components of PFL and will enable us to offer unmatched prop bets and gaming opportunities."
PFL MMA 2021 season will premiere on Friday April 23 in Primetime across ESPN networks and platforms.
