PFL Appoints Younghans as SVP of Global Partnerships
The experienced industry veteran joins PFL from MLS outfit Columbus Crew
Posted On: November 27, 2025 By :The Professional Fighters League, the mixed martial arts league, has announced Justin Younghans as its new senior vice president of global partnerships.
Younghans joins PFL from Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew, where he had served as vice president of corporate partnership sales and activation since 2022. He has more than 16 years of experience in driving partnerships and revenue, and worked at both the Washington Commanders and Jacksonville Jaguars.
In his new role, Younghans will be focused on growing PFL in the Americas by forging key commercial relationships, and working to enhance fan engagement with the sport through unique and exciting activations. Younghans will report to Damian Willoughby, EVP global partnerships.
“I’m thrilled to begin this new chapter at PFL. I look forward to deepening partner engagement and driving impactful growth across our global ecosystem, particularly in the Americas,” Younghans said. “I have seen the exciting forecast of PFL in 2026 and I can’t wait to be a part of the journey.”
“We are delighted to welcome Justin to the PFL family,” Willoughby said. “He brings a wealth of experience driving material revenue growth across MLS and NFL and did so through innovative and authentic partnerships which have proven to enhance the fan experience. Justin’s track record will be a huge asset for the PFL as we enter a step change period of growth for our commercial business.”
Already hosting premium MMA events in the United States, Europe, MENA and Africa, the organization is looking to expand in Asia, Australia and Latin America.
The league is backed by blue-chip investors including SURJ, Ares, 885 Capital, Knighthead, Luxor Capital, Waverley Capital, Elysian Park Ventures, and a number of NBA, MLB, NHL, and MLS team owners.
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