2021 PFL regular season to be held in 'state-of-the-art bubble' in Atlantic City
The PFL officially has a home for 2021 and is touting safety as being of the utmost importance.
On Thursday, the PFL announced that this year’s regular season will be held at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, N.J., as the league will operate in a “state-of-the-art bubble environment” in an effort to keep fighters and staff safe.
As part of COVID-19 protocols, the PFL said athletes will be required to report to the bubble 17 days prior to their scheduled fights, which will allow for initial quarantine and additional measures. The PFL said it will work with health experts to ensure safety protocols are adhered to. Daily COVID-19 tests, facial covering requirements, and keeping fighters separated in the lead-up to bouts are all part of the league’s plans. Training facilities will be available for athletes onsite.
The PFL will make its return after canceling all of the 2020 season because of the global coronavirus pandemic. The PFL 2021, Week 1 season opener, which features lightweights and featherweights, is set for April 23. It will be headlined by former UFC and WEC champion Anthony Pettis’ promotional debut against Clay Collard.
PFL 2 matchups also have been announced, with light heavyweights and welterweights taking center stage April 29. That night’s main event will feature the promotional debut of former Bellator champion Rory MacDonald taking on 2019 welterweight runner-up David Michaud.
Both events will air on ESPN2 following prelims on ESPN+. Further regular season events will follow on May 6, and June 10, 17, and 25.