Savannah Marshall to make MMA debut, inks multi-year deal with PFL

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) announced the signing of undisputed super middleweight world champion Savannah Marshall.

“I am thrilled to begin my journey in MMA with The Professional Fighters League,” said Savannah Marshall. “I am proud to join the most talented female combat sports athletes in the world and continue to raise the profile of women in sports through PFLW.”

Marshall now joins the same MMA organization as her career rival, Claressa Shields, who decisioned the British boxer back in October of last year.

She's been eager to secure a rematch, and now the door is open to transition their rivalry to the MMA cage.

Marshall is set to begin her MMA career inside the PFL SmartCage and joins a roster which includes Shields, two-time Olympic gold medalist Kayla Harrison, PFL world champion Larissa Pacheco, and Amanda Serrano.

“I want to welcome two-time boxing world champion, Savannah Marshall to the Professional Fighters League,” said Peter Murray, PFL CEO. “It’s an exciting time for PFL as we officially launch PFLW, and the addition of Savannah Marshall strengthens the best global roster of women in combat sports. PFLW is committed to the empowerment and equality of all female athletes and provides a dedicated platform for women to become PFL MMA champions.”

Marshall bounced back from her first career defeat earlier this year, when she picked up a ten round unanimous decision over Franchon Crews-Dezurn to capture the undisputed super middleweight crown.

Earlier this year, PFL signed social media star turned boxer, Jake Paul, to an exclusive contract. Paul is expected to make his MMA debut in 2024.