Scott Coker is back, and now it’s known some old friends are joining him.
On Tuesday, Coker’s new MMA promotion (which does not yet have a name) announced its executive team, including former Bellator matchmaker Rich Chou, who will serve in a similar role as vice president of athlete relations. Chou has been a long-time contributor to MMA, also having been an integral part of Strikeforce, Elite XC and Rumble on the Rock, among other promotions.
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Additionally, former Paramount and Spike TV president Kevin Kay has been inked as chief content officer and former Gatorade and Nike executive Tom Fox joins as chief operating officer. Lawrence Stuart has been named vice president of media rights and business development.
Paolo Boccotti, who headed Bellator’s European efforts, will serve as executive vice president of European production & operations. Former Showtime Sports communications exec Chris DeBlasio will serve in a similar role for the new promotion, joined by public relations manager C.J. Tuttle, formerly of Bellator and PFL.
While limited details are known about this new venture, which was just announced May 21, Coker revealed Tuesday on “The Ariel Helwani Show” that he is planning to launch in January with 12 shows expected in 2027. Coker said he plans to sign 100-150 fighters of various experience levels to compete in both tournament and non-tournament formatted fights. Coker said fans should expect a broadcast partner to be announced soon.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Scott Coker’s new MMA promotion announces matchmaker, other executives
