The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is actively looking at the Middle East to lead the next phase of its global growth strategy.
Following its success in the US and European markets, the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) organisation is planning to launch additional international and regional leagues over the next three years.
Peter Murray, CEO of PFL, told ARN News that the Middle East is crucial to these plans, with the region's talent base and the surging popularity of MMA seen as strong factors.
Murray pointed out that the Middle East is rich in MMA talent, adding that the PFL already has on its roster the likes of Mostafa Rashed Neda and Abdullah Al-Qahtani, who hail from Saudi Arabia.
He emphasised the league's commitment to provide a pathway for the best local fighters to reach the PFL's global roster.
Murray said more specific details of PFL's plans for the Middle East will be announced in the coming months while adding: "We have relationships with all major federations, gyms, managers and top fighters" to make it happen.
American great Serena Williams will face Australian 20-year-old Maya Joint in the first round of her eagerly awaited return to Wimbledon, a potentially tricky tie for the seven-time champion playing at the tournament for the first time since 2022.
Australia booked their spot in the knockout rounds of the World Cup on Thursday after a cagey draw against Paraguay, who are set to qualify as a third-placed finisher, while Turkey beat USA 3-2, scoring the winner with virtually the last kick of the match.
The Netherlands scored two goals in the first seven minutes of the first half en route to a 3-1 victory over Tunisia on Thursday night in Kansas City in Group F, while Japan and Sweden drew 1-1 in Texas.
Ecuador coach Sebastian Beccacece said all Ecuadoreans have a lot to celebrate on Thursday after the country's biggest World Cup result ever, coming from behind to beat Germany 2-1 and advance to the knockout stage.
New Zealand took control of the third Test at Trent Bridge with Tom Latham and Devon Conway setting a record partnership for the Kiwis against England on Thursday.