Bellator had its first show Friday under the PFL banner debuting on HBO MAX streaming services. In December, the former Showtime MMA brand was purchased by the Professional Fighters League and their roster was absolved into the company. Current title holders will defend their belts at Bellator Champions Series events that will be held in the United States and Internationally. 

In Belfast this past weekend two titles were on the line with Cory Anderson and Karl Moore in the Main Event. HBO MAX is a popular platform that should bring more eyes to the promotion. In today’s live sporting landscape, many leagues are turning to digital platforms such as Netflix, HBO, and Amazon Prime.

All eight of the Bellator Champions series events this year will stream live exclusively on HBO MAX. Subscribers to the platform will also gain access to two new docuseries along with the best of Bellator fight library. Warner Bros. Discovery and the PFL agreed last week on this historic deal. TNT sports on TRU TV will also feature Bellator content throughout the year.

Bellator Champions Series Schedule:

May 17th- Paris

June 22nd- Dublin

September 7th- San Diego

September 14th- London

October 12th- Chicago

November 16th- Paris

First Bellator Broadcast

The first broadcast for the Bellator Champions series featured many familiar faces. Former color commentator “Big” John McCarthy made many appearances throughout the broadcast giving his opinion on how rounds were scored and situations involving referees. McCarthy is one of the most knowledgeable figures in the sport and provides expert analysis. The purchase of Bellator however has seemed like a merger rather than a buyout. With two brands positioned to excel simultaneously under the same banner, it will be a first in MMA. The next Bellator event will be held in Paris, on May 17th.

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