Panini America, a giant in sports and entertainment collectibles, has joined forces with the fast-rising Professional Fighters League (PFL) in a strategic move that promises to shake up the world of MMA trading cards. This multi-year deal signifies a major step forward in the sports memorabilia industry.
The collaboration between Panini and the PFL will bring exciting new products to the market. Kicking off this partnership is the launch of Panini Instant, a real-time platform aimed at providing MMA fans with timely and exclusive collectibles. Following this will be the highly anticipated release of PFL Prizm later this 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, is thrilled about the venture. He sees the PFL’s impressive growth and global influence as a perfect match to invigorate the MMA trading card space, which is already a vibrant part of Panini’s collection. The partnership aims to deepen fan engagement by offering unique Panini products showcasing PFL athletes and events.
Bryan Calka, CCO of the PFL, shares in this excitement, highlighting Panini America’s expertise in collectibles. He stresses the PFL’s dedication to providing top-notch experiences for MMA fans worldwide, experiences that are set to be enhanced through this collaboration with Panini.
One innovative aspect of this partnership is the introduction of digital trading card collectibles, including NFTs, catering to the changing preferences of collectors who are embracing digital formats alongside physical cards.
The timing of this alliance is significant as the PFL is gearing up to launch the second half of its 2024 Global Season starting on June 13 at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT. Athletes from six weight classes will battle it out for playoff berths and the coveted title of PFL World Champion, along with a $1 million prize.
The PFL’s unique sports-season format sets it apart in the MMA landscape, with a structure similar to major league sports, complete with regular season fixtures, playoffs, and a championship. The league is making waves with its innovative SmartCage technology, offering advanced fight analytics and a cutting-edge viewing experience, while also expanding globally with initiatives like PFL Europe and PFL MENA.
Panini America, a subsidiary of the Panini Group based in Italy, brings over 60 years of experience in the collectibles industry, boasting key partnerships across various sports and entertainment sectors. With a global footprint and robust distribution network, Panini ensures that PFL trading cards will reach a wide audience, elevating the visibility and appeal of both brands in the collectibles market.
The partnership between Panini America and the Professional Fighters League is poised to revolutionize the world of sports memorabilia, infusing innovation into the thrilling realm of MMA. Fans can anticipate a diverse range of collectibles celebrating the sport’s dynamic nature and its stellar athletes.
