Scott Coker’s new promotion adds former matchmaker, others to executive team

Scott Coker is proud of the executive team he has assembled. | Christian Stein/Sherdog.com

Some familiar faces will be on board when Scott Coker’s new mixed martial arts promotion launches in 2027.

Coker, who announced plans for a new organization set to debut next year, revealed on Wednesday the addition of six new executives to his leadership team. One noteworthy member of that group is Rich Chou, who served as matchmaker under Coker during their tenures in Bellator MMA and Strikeforce. Chou’s official title is executive vice president, athlete relations, and he will be “central to the league’s competition strategy and its commitment to building authentic relationships with fighters and fight teams,” per a release.

Coker’s Executive Team:

-Kevin Kay, chief content officer (Paramount Network, Spike TV)
-Tom Fox, chief operating officer (Gatorade, NBA Properties, Arsenal)
-Rich Chou, executive vice president, athlete relations (Strikeforce, Bellator MMA)
-Paolo Boccotti, executive vice president, european production & operations (Fight Code, Bellator MMA)
-Lawrence Stuart, executive vice president, media rights & business development (CMP, Screenz, ICM Partners)
-Chris DeBlasio, executive vice [resident, global head of communications (Showtime Sports)
*past experience in parentheses

“We have assembled a team of premium sports leaders who share our values and respect for combat sports,” Coker stated. “Tom, Kevin, Rich, Paolo, Lawrence and Chris each bring world-class experience and the industry relationships needed to drive MMA forward, while always honoring its roots, the athletes and the fans who supported this sport from the beginning. Collectively, we see where the sport can go and we also know where it comes from.”

The organization is backed by $60 million in financing from Creator Sports Capital and other investors. Coker recently revealed that he hopes to hold a debut event in January 2027. Other details, including “league name, competition structure, athlete participation, media partnerships and event schedule,” are expected to be announced soon.

This article first appeared at Recent News on Sherdog.com

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