The GFL already had an ambitious roster ahead of its inaugural season and now the fledgling promotion has signed several more fighters along with announcing the host cities and coaches for the inaugural season.
Among the new signings include UFC Hall of Famer Mauricio “Shogun” Rua, who retired from competition in 2023 after suffering three straight losses in the octagon. Rua once served as UFC light heavyweight champion and he’s still widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters of all time.
Also joining the GFL roster is the seemingly ageless Yoel Romero, who was last seen scoring a brutal knockout win in the first ever Dirty Boxing card, which is a hybrid fight promotion started by BKFC superstar Mike Perry.
Additional signings announced on Thursday include Chad Mendes, Renan Barao, Douglas Lima, Ovince Saint Preux and Todd Duffee.
The first ever GFL draft is scheduled for next Friday Jan. 24 at 8 p.m. ET with the promotion announcing plans to broadcast the draft, although details haven’t been revealed yet where to watch.
In addition to the new fighter signings, the GLF also announced the host cities and coaches for the inaugural season. Here are the cities and coaches set for the upcoming season:
Los Angeles
Manager: Wanderlei Silva
Coach: Rafael Cordeiro
New York
Manager: To Be Determind
Coach: Ray Longo
Miami
Manager: Thiago Alves
Coach: Conan Silveira
Sao Paulo
Manager: Lyoto Machida
Coach: Andre Peterneiras
London
Manager: Luke Barnatt
Coach: Carl Prince
Dubai
Manager: Cain Velasquez
Coach: Javier Mendez
“This league is built on respect for the sport’s history and a vision for its future,” GFL commissioner Darren Owen said in a press release. “Our cities, managers, and coaches reflect the very best of MMA, and our draft will kick off an unforgettable first season.”
While GFL hasn’t made any official announcement, sources told MMA Fighting that the first season is expected to launch in April with rumors that Brazil will serve as the host country for the debut event.