Did You Know? The global MMA market size was valued at USD 11.68 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to USD 20.48 billion by 2032, according to a recent report by Polaris Market Research.
Former UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler is embarking on a new chapter in his career, joining the board of directors at Xtreme One Entertainment, Inc. as of Tuesday, January 6, 2026. This move signifies a continued involvement in the sport he dedicated so much of his life to, even after his retirement from active competition in 2023.
Lawler’s appointment isn’t happening in isolation; he’s joining a board that already includes prominent figures like Ettore “Big E” Ewen, a former WWE star, and Jenny Taft, a respected reporter from Fox Sports. xtreme One Entertainment, Inc. serves as the parent company for Xtreme Fighting Championships (XFC), a regional MMA promotion with a clear mission: to cultivate emerging talent and prepare them for the larger stages of the UFC and Professional Fighters League (PFL).
Lawler’s Vision for the Next Generation of Fighters
Lawler expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating that it provides a platform to nurture the next wave of athletes. He believes his experience can be invaluable in guiding young fighters not just to reach the UFC, but to thrive once they arrive. “I’ve been able to work as a coach in the sport, and my goal is always not to just get a fighter to the UFC, but keep him in the UFC,” Lawler explained. “It will be the same goal at XFC, getting these athletes prepared for every aspect of a professional career.”
His responsibilities will center around advising XFC athletes on crucial aspects of their professional lives, including career management, personal branding, and navigating the media landscape. this holistic approach reflects a growing understanding within the sport that success requires more than just fighting ability.
Pro Tip: Building a strong personal brand is crucial for fighters today. Social media presence, engaging content, and a clear understanding of yoru target audience can substantially impact sponsorship opportunities and fan engagement.
Xtreme One Entertainment, Inc. has been working to rebuild its foundation following a fraud judgment against its former CEO, Steve Smith Jr., in April of the previous year. The company recently initiated a crowdfunding campaign last month to bolster its operations and accelerate growth.
According to Chris Defendis, president of Xtreme One Entertainment, Inc., Lawler’s extensive experience makes him an ideal mentor.”Robbie has done this sport longer than 99 percent of people who have ever fought, and he’s seen it all,” Defendis stated. “We wont to be an organization that gives fighters real structure and advice, and we want Robbie to take the charge on that from a credibility and experience perspective.”
