Scott Coker names six executives for new MMA promotion launching in January 2027

Scott Coker has named six senior executives for his forthcoming MMA promotion, with former Bellator and Strikeforce matchmaker Rich Chou among the most prominent additions to a leadership team assembled ahead of a planned January 2027 launch.

Chou, who worked alongside Coker at both Strikeforce and Bellator MMA, joins as executive vice president of athlete relations. According to a release from the organisation, he will be “central to the league’s competition strategy and its commitment to building authentic relationships with fighters and fight teams.”

The full executive team brings together experience from across sports, media, and entertainment. Kevin Kay, formerly of Paramount Network and Spike TV, takes the role of chief content officer. Tom Fox, who has held senior positions at Gatorade, NBA Properties, and Arsenal, is named chief operating officer. Paolo Boccotti, another Bellator alumnus with experience at Fight Code, joins as executive vice president of European production and operations. Lawrence Stuart, whose background spans CMP, Screenz, and ICM Partners, will serve as executive vice president of media rights and business development. Chris DeBlasio, formerly of Showtime Sports, rounds out the group as executive vice president and global head of communications.

“We have assembled a team of premium sports leaders who share our values and respect for combat sports,” Coker said in a statement. “Tom, Kevin, Rich, Paolo, Lawrence and Chris each bring world-class experience and the industry relationships needed to drive MMA forward, while always honoring its roots, the athletes and the fans who supported this sport from the beginning. Collectively, we see where the sport can go and we also know where it comes from.”

The promotion is backed by $60 million in financing from Creator Sports Capital and other investors. Key details — including the league’s name, competition structure, athlete participation, media partnerships, and event schedule — have yet to be announced but are expected to follow in the coming months.