Panini America, renowned for its extensive range of sports and entertainment collectibles, has joined forces with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) in a strategic partnership, marking a significant step in the world of MMA trading cards.
This exciting multi-year deal will see Panini and PFL collaborate to introduce new and engaging products to the market. The partnership kicks off with the launch of Panini Instant, a real-time platform that delivers collectibles directly to MMA fans. Following this, fans can anticipate the release of PFL Prizm later in the year, expected to be a standout product in the trading card category.
Jason Howarth, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations at Panini America, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, recognizing the PFL’s rapid growth and global appeal. This collaboration aims to invigorate the MMA trading card market, offering fans exclusive Panini products featuring PFL athletes and events for a more immersive fan experience.
Bryan Calka, CCO of the PFL, shared in the excitement, highlighting Panini America’s industry-leading expertise in collectibles. The PFL is dedicated to providing MMA fans worldwide with premium experiences, a mission that will be further enhanced through this partnership.
A noteworthy aspect of this collaboration is the introduction of digital trading card collectibles, including NFTs, catering to the evolving preferences of collectors embracing digital formats alongside physical cards.
The timing of this partnership aligns with the upcoming events in the PFL schedule, as the league gears up for the second half of its 2024 Global Season, starting on June 13 at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT. Athletes across six weight classes will compete for playoff berths and the title of PFL World Champion, along with a substantial $1 million prize purse.
The PFL’s unique sports-season format sets it apart in the MMA landscape, mirroring major league sports with regular season matches, playoffs, and a championship bout. The league’s commitment to innovation is evident through the SmartCage technology, which enhances the viewing experience with advanced fight analytics, while initiatives like PFL Europe and PFL MENA are extending its global footprint.
As a subsidiary of the renowned Panini Group based in Italy, Panini America brings over sixty years of industry experience and established partnerships across various sports and entertainment domains. With a vast global network, PFL trading cards are poised to reach a wide audience, enhancing the visibility and appeal of both brands in the collectibles market.
This groundbreaking partnership between Panini America and the Professional Fighters League is set to transform the landscape of sports memorabilia, offering fans a diverse range of collectibles that celebrate the dynamic world of MMA and its exceptional athletes. Fans can expect an exciting array of products that encapsulate the thrill of the sport and its stars.
