MMA Brasil initially reported that the PFL cut a “large part” of its roster – namely everyone with the exception of past champions and high-profile fighters -- after announcing that it would postpone its entire 2020 season until next year. Meanwhile, in an interview with Fansided, PFL CEO Peter Murray said this regarding the roster: “We’re keeping the significant majority, over two-thirds.”
While it remains unclear just how many fighters remain under PFL contract, MMAFighting.com obtained two separate emails sent by organization president Ray Sefo. One message is in line with PFL’s announcement, which states that due to the postponement of the 2020 season, fighters under contract will receive a monthly cash stipend that “will not need to be repaid or deducted from any future pay.”
The other email, also sent by Sefo, informs fighters that due to the postponement “your agreement is terminated and you are formally released to compete elsewhere effective immediately.” It is currently unknown who was released from their contract by the PFL.
Details regarding the amount of the monthly stipend are also unclear. One anonymous fighter told MMAFighting the promotion has yet to reveal the amount of the payment, while another said they will receive $1,000 per month.
While the email from Sefo states that the decision was “made together with ESPN,” Murray hasn’t completely ruled out holding special non-season events with no live audience before the conclusion of 2020.