Scott Coker Launches Ki MMA Promotion with Global Tournament Format

Scott Coker announced his new venture, Ki MMA, which will debut in 2027 with a 32-fighter World Grand Prix featherweight tournament.

Veteran mixed martial arts promoter Scott Coker announced the launch of Ki MMA during a media event in New York on Monday. The global promotion is scheduled to begin operations in early 2027 and will feature a 32-fighter World Grand Prix featherweight tournament. Bouts will take place across North America, Europe, Asia, and South America, with all contests held inside a ring rather than a cage.

Coker, who previously led Strikeforce and Bellator MMA, secured $60 million in funding earlier this year to support the venture. He is joined on the executive team by Peter Levin of Griffin Gaming Partners. In addition to the primary tournament structure, the promotion intends to schedule Super Fights featuring established names in the sport.

The new organization aims to develop prospects into stars, following Coker's previous success at Strikeforce, where he helped build the careers of Daniel Cormier, Ronda Rousey, and Luke Rockhold before the company's 2011 sale to the UFC. Ki MMA will focus on a clear path to crowning a World Grand Prix champion while emphasizing discipline and respect within the sport.