The Professional Fighters League, with events in Atlantic City, taking on MMA competitors

There’s room for more than one brand in mixed martial arts, and the Professional Fighters League wants its place.

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has been the most popular form of MMA, one of the fastest-growing sports in America. Bellator and One Championship are two of UFC’s most successful competitors.

The PFL, whose events take place at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, is developing its own niche. Along with its unique regular season, playoffs and championship setup that is comparable to sports like football and basketball, the league employs innovative strategies to boost fan interest – strike and kick speeds, a damage meter, biometric data, and a replay system that gives fans a closer look inside the cage.

“That’s what’s propelling our growth now as the No. 2 MMA organization in the world,” PFL CEO Pete Murray said. “We really pride ourselves on providing not only an immersive experience tied to the date and technology, but also access that has never been provided to the fans.”

The PFL was founded in 2018. A successful start was halted by the COVID-19 pause in 2020, but only temporarily.

All 2021 matches are showcased on the ESPN platforms and in 160 countries. The roster includes fighters from 25 countries.

Former UFC champions Anthony Pettis and Fabricio Werdum are signed with the PFL, plus former UFC contender Rory MacDonald.

Defending lightweight champion and two-time judo Olympic Gold medalist Kayla Harrison headlines the women’s side, plus newly signed Claressa Shields is attempting to become a champion in boxing and MMA.

“A lot of fighters can’t make a million dollars in their first year anywhere else, but here, you fighting for the title is all in your hands,” said Ray Seefo, PFL president of operations.

PFL’s season began on April 23. Regular-season action ends on June 25. Fighters in each of the six weight divisions — five men and one women — are competing twice before the playoffs and eventual championship, where the winners receive a $1 million prize.

The challenges remain. The PFL has a unique strategy for fans of MMA, but it has strong competition from Bellator, UFC and One Championship. And there are MMA promotions overseas. While more talent is coming to PFL, the same can be said of its main competitors.

“Rome wasn’t built in one day,” Seefo said. “It takes time, and I’m OK with that.”