The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has announced a major partnership with Movistar Plus+, Spain’s largest PayTV provider, to broadcast all 24 PFL Global and International League events throughout 2026. This agreement enables Spanish viewers to access premier MMA content on Movistar Plus+’s entry-level channel Vamos por M+, expanding the reach of PFL within the country during a pivotal year for mixed martial arts in Spain.
PFL Madrid to Mark Historic MMA Event in Spain
The collaboration is highlighted by the upcoming PFL Madrid event, scheduled for Friday, March 20, 2026, at the Palacio Vistalegre. This showcase will be the first global MMA event ever hosted in Spain, featuring the homegrown star and current PFL Middleweight World Champion Costello “The Spaniard” van Steenis. Known for his dramatic victory over the previously undefeated Johnny Eblen with a last-minute rear-naked choke, van Steenis will defend his title in a highly anticipated rematch against English contender Fabian “The Assassin” Edwards, promising a memorable night for fans in Madrid.
Impact of the Partnership on Spanish MMA Fans and Broadcasters
Movistar Plus+ is a dominant force in Spanish sports broadcasting, known for airing major sporting events such as LALIGA, UEFA Champions League, and Euroleague. Integrating PFL’s MMA events into their lineup introduces a new dynamic to their sports portfolio, increasing visibility for mixed martial arts in a market that is rapidly embracing the sport.
“Partnering with Movistar Plus+ is a huge deal and opportunity for PFL. As the largest PayTV service in Spain, and with PFL hosting the first ever global MMA event in the country, the timing is perfect for us to bring elite MMA to their platform and subscribers. This is the biggest year in PFL’s history and we plan to deliver the biggest and best events possible, and we can’t wait for the Spanish fans to witness what we have planned. Sign up, and be a part of a historic year,”
said PFL CEO John Martin.
PFL’s Global Reach and Growth Strategy
The Professional Fighters League operates as a premier global mixed martial arts organization, running live events broadcast in over 170 countries via a wide network of international media partners. Headquartered in the United States, PFL continues expanding its footprint across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This deal with Movistar Plus+ reflects their commitment to growing MMA’s international presence and delivering high-quality MMA events to fans worldwide.
About Movistar Plus+ and Its Role in Spain’s Entertainment Landscape
Movistar Plus+, part of the Telefónica Group, is Spain’s leading audiovisual entertainment platform. Serving a broad customer base, it offers original productions, premium sports programming, films, series, documentaries, and extensive on-demand content available across various devices. The addition of PFL to its sports content portfolio alongside established broadcasts such as LALIGA and the UEFA Champions League underscores Movistar Plus+’s intent to provide diverse and engaging entertainment experiences to its subscribers.
Upcoming Broadcast and Viewing Information
The first PFL event to be broadcast on Movistar Plus+ will be PFL Madrid on March 20, 2026. Subscribers will have access via the Vamos por M+ channel, which is included in all Movistar Plus+ subscription packages, ensuring widespread availability for MMA enthusiasts across Spain. This marks a significant moment for local fans to follow Spain’s own Costello van Steenis as he defends his middleweight title on home soil.
The Significance of the PFL Spain Broadcast Partnership
This collaboration between PFL and Movistar Plus+ represents a crucial step in elevating MMA’s profile in Spain. By broadcasting the full slate of PFL’s 2026 events, Movistar Plus+ offers a new pathway for Spanish audiences to engage with world-class MMA competition featuring top fighters like Fabian “The Assassin” Edwards and Costello van Steenis. The landmark PFL Madrid event underscores Spain’s growing stature within the global MMA community and demonstrates the sport’s increasing appeal.
As MMA continues to gain momentum internationally, this broadcast deal is expected to foster greater interest and investment in the sport within Spain, potentially influencing local fighter development and fan engagement in the years ahead.
