PGF closes seven-figure sale with Las Vegas Kings

The Professional Grappling Federation (PGF), the world's fastest-paced grappling format, announced that it has finalised a seven-figure sale of its first PGF franchise team, now to be named the New Hope Kings. The franchise has been acquired by New Hope Regeneration, a national leader in regenerative therapy and athletic recovery.

This landmark transaction marks the PGF's formal entry into the pro sports franchise model, mirroring leagues like the NFL, NBA, and Formula 1 where teams are owned assets with long-term upside.

"We are beyond excited, and it is a dream come true to participate in professional sports history by partnering with PGF and purchasing the world's first professional Jiu-Jitsu franchise team, the New Hope Kings. PGF is what grappling should be: it's real for the athletes and it's built for the fans," said owner Kevin Lucas of New Hope Regeneration.

The announcement follows a breakout year for the PGF. Season 7 generated over 11 million views across social media and media-rights platforms, driven by the league's unique format, cinematic storytelling, and explosive digital growth. PGF content now airs globally through partners such as UFC Fight Pass, cementing the league as one of the most watched and respected properties in grappling.

"I've spent over two decades building global brands and bands, taking them from ground zero to sold-out arenas and multi-platinum success," said PGF co-owner Zoltan Bathory, founder of Five Finger Death Punch. "This league has all the structural pillars of a major sport: elite athletes, team rivalries, and a full-season format. More importantly, it has the cultural momentum."

"My family helped introduce Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the world and created the UFC which changed martial arts forever. Now, with the PGF, we're writing the next chapter," added Heather Grace Gracie, PGF co-owner and member of the Gracie family. "We're building a league that gives athletes real careers and fans a true sport to follow."

Season 8 will debut the Kings on the league's biggest stage yet, kicking off with the PGF Draft on June 25, followed by weekly matches beginning July 23 and culminating in a championship event on September 10. The Full League Era format replaces the former one-week tournament with a 12-week season featuring athlete contracts, team rivalries, and long-form storytelling.

"This is more than a milestone. It's proof of concept," said PGF founder and commissioner Brandon McCaghren. "The Kings are the first. They won't be the last."

With additional ownership conversations underway, the PGF is accelerating toward a true professional league with permanent teams, franchise economics, and year-round content.

About the PGF: The Professional Grappling Federation was created to revolutionise Jiu-Jitsu competition and bring real career opportunities to athletes in the fastest-growing combat sport on Earth. With an emphasis on fast-moving action, team-based formats, franchise ownership, and high-quality streaming content, the PGF has become one of the most influential brands in modern grappling. Learn more at pgf.world or on the league's social channels.

PGF Founders and Board of Advisors:

- Brandon McCaghren - PGF commissioner, 10th Planet black belt, and veteran analyst for UFC Fight Pass, Combat Jiu-Jitsu, the Craig Jones Invitational, and ADCC.

- Keelan Lawyer - Founder of Subconscious Studios, BJJ black belt, and visionary filmmaker behind the PGF's cinematic storytelling.

- Zoltan Bathory - PGF co-owner, serial entrepreneur, and founder of the multi-platinum band Five Finger Death Punch.

- Heather Grace Gracie - Member of the Gracie family, owner of Gracie Worldwide, and long-time entrepreneur in combat sports.

- Royce Gracie - UFC Hall of Famer and global ambassador of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

- Carlos Machado - 8th-degree coral belt and internationally renowned instructor.

- Jean Jacques Machado - 8th-degree coral belt and 2024 ADCC Hall of Fame inductee.

- Renzo Gracie - PRIDE, UFC, and ADCC legend and founder of Renzo Gracie Academy NYC.

- Pedro Sauer - 8th-degree coral belt under Rickson Gracie and revered technician.

- Mica Cipili - 6th-degree black belt, competitive champion, and master instructor.

- Eddie Bravo - Founder of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu and the Eddie Bravo Invitational.

- Jonathan Anastas - Former CMO of ONE Championship and veteran global brand executive.

Owner Kevin Lucas will lead back-to-back qualifiers in Dallas and Las Vegas as the club prepares its Season 9 roster.

Contact: marketing@pgf.world